Aarsha Vani (Voice of Sanatana )

January 2019 Volume: 4 Issue:12

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Title P a g e # Title P a g e # 1 Tattvamasi Svarūpa Ayyappa 1 9 How to unite Bhārata and make it more 8 2 Annadā, Vasudhā… 2 robust? – Swami Vivekananda 3 Kanuma – Worship of Cow 2 10 Sanatana Dharma Around the World 8 4 Who, how and when one should wear Bhasma 3 The True Story from Sage 5 Maha Purana 4 11 Open letter to Arthur Vullampalli 9 6 Major Festivals in This Month 5 12 Veda - Siva Leelas in Mahabharata 10 7 The Eternal - ‘The institution of ‘ālaya’ 13 Hindu Dharma – Form, Nature and Effect 1 1 āgama stipulations - Hindu Temples are 14 Pitr̥ dēvō bhava – Śrī Janārdhanāya Namaḥ, centers of concentrated energy – Part 2 6 Śrī Upēndrāya Namaḥ, Śrī Harayē Namaḥ, 8 The Four Strategic Forms - Caturvyūha Rūpā: 7 Śrī Kr̥ ṣṇāya Namaḥ 11 15 Śiva jñānaṁ - of Five-Faced Śiva 1 2

With your patronage ‘Aarshavani’ is in its fourth year. We take this opportunity to express our gratitude for your continuous support. To express your views about this e-newsletter, and make it more rewarding and spiritually uplifting, please write to [email protected] with the subject line ‘VIEW’.

“सरस्वती श्रुततमहती महीयत 車" - "Sarasvatī śrutimahatī mahīyatāṁ"

(The above phrase in Rushipeetham logo is said by King Dushyanta in Sri Kalidasa’s Abhignana Sakuntalam. “Pravartatāṁ prakr̥tihitāya pārthivaḥ; sarasvatī śrutimahatī mahīyatāṁ; mamāpi ca kṣapayatu nīlalōhitaḥ; punarbhavaṁ...... " - ‘Rulers shall strive to save nature. Education derived from shall become venerable paving the path to universal welfare. Vedic education stipulating the directives of Dharma shall thrive. Let there be no rebirth to me by the grace of Svayambhu Sada Śiva’. King Dushyantha aspired for the above.)

‘Samanvaya is San tana – S marasya is Bh rat yata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma ā ā ā ī

Aarsha Vani (Voice of Sanatana Dharma)

January 2019 Volume: 4 Issue: 12

Tattvamasi Svarūpa Ayyappa Upcoming Pravachanams Lord Ayyappa is the embodiment of ‘’. He is also called the ‘Śāsta’. ‘Śāsta’ Date: Dec 31, 2018 – Jan 5, 2019 6:15 PM means one who commands. It is the Guru Topic: "Mukunda Mala – Sri who commands and directs towards Karavalambam” Venue: Sri Tirumala Devastanam Satram following the scriptural decrees. Shraddha is Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam nothing but following the instructions of Organized by Sri Samavedam Dharmika Guru without any rational deductions or Pravachana Nirvahana Sangham logical interpretations. Upon sincere Contact: Bandi Ramesh Kumar 9441050226 execution of Guru’s instructions which are PS Raju 9849071266 Mindi Babji 9052628203 nothing, but the stipulations as prescribed by scriptures, Guru bestows the supreme Date: Jan 6, 2019 5:30 PM Topic: SIVA PADAM knowledge which makes one realize the Singers: SP Balasubrahmanyam, SP Sailaja & Team Maha Vakyas ‘ Brahmasmi’ and Venue: Convocation Hall, Andhra University, ‘Tattvamasi’. It is quite astounding to observe Visakhapatnam that this mahavakya ‘Tattvamasi’ is seen only Contact: M Rajashekar 9989991112

in Swami Ayyappa temples. Mahavakyas are Date: Jan 8 – 16, 2019 6:30 PM decrees mentioned in Vedas that postulate Topic:"Tulasidasa Virachita Ramacharita Manas” Venue: Kshipraprasada Ganapati Devalayam, the non-difference of self and supreme. When one continuously reminisces Kapra, ECIL post, Saket Colony, Hyderabad. these mahavakyas, there awakens an inner that there is no Contact: M Somanath, Sakuntala, Smt. difference between the self and supreme ultimately leading to the realization of 8008003120, 8008003125

the supreme. Only He who makes His disciple realize the profundity and truth Date: Jan 29, 2019 6:30 PM hidden in these mahavakyas is a true ‘Guru’ or ‘’. Hence, Ayyappa Swami Topic: Felicitation to Brahmasri Samavedam is that Guru who bestows the ‘Brahmajnana’ i.e. The Supreme Knowledge, Shanmukha Sarmagaru with ‘Veturi’ Award attaining after which all searches, craves for everything ends. His very posture Venue: Sri Prakash Samstha, indicates this. He seats in ‘Veera’ . In , there are many kinds of ‘Veera’ Payakarao Peta, Tuni Contact: Ch.KV Narasimha Rao 8106574448 postures are mentioned, But, this posture is specific to a Guru. And, He is surrounded by ‘Yoga’ pattam. This extends up to the back Date: Jan 30 – Feb 2, 2019 6:30 PM Topic: "Siva Parvatula Kalyanam” from the legs. This aids in holding this posture steady. Venue: Kodanda Ramalayam, Konthamuru, Remaining resolutely in this posture itself is near Rajamahendravaram. impossible, except for those who are the embodiment of Contact: V Ravindranath 9110320236 K Varaprasad 9849660056 themselves. He holds ‘Chinmudra’ with His right hand akin to Lord (For details visit http://rushipeetham.org/ Event Calendar)

Dakshinamurti. (Contd.. Page2)

Traditions-Fulfilments Vachanam Scriptures advocate that one should not " is the mother of all religions. This is the ancient land, where wisdom travel on Kanuma during day time. made its home before it went into any other country… Here is the same India whose soil has been trodden by the feet of the greatest sages that ever lived… Worship of Lord Lakṣmi Nārāyaṇa Look back, therefore, as far as you can, drink deep of the eternal fountains that with Tulasi leaves from Puṣya are behind, and after that look forward, march forward, and make India brighter, ŚuklaVidiya to Pan̄cami fulfills all greater, much higher, than she ever was.” - Swami Vivekananda. desires. Bharateeyam

"The Indian air surrounds us, the original thoughts of kindred spirits.....And O! Reciting ‘śrī surabhyai namaḥ’ as how the mind is here washed clean of all its early ingrafted Jewish superstition! many number of times every day to It is the most profitable and most elevating reading which is possible in the reach one lakh grants the fulfilment of world." - Arthur Schopenhauer, German philosopher and writer. all wishes. - .

Spiritual Quest (Answers by Sri Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma) Is it justifiable for courts to deliver judgement lifting restrictions on women entry alleging discrimination and inequality in Sabarimala temple? Entry of women is not restricted in all Hindu temples. It is not traditional in Sanatana Dharma for women to enter temples during the period of menstruation cycle, about which every woman is aware. During other times, women enter just like men in all other temples except Sabarimala. This is the unique distinction of that temple, in which there is neither discrimination nor inequality. All our temples are not of same kind. Each has it’s own distinction with respect to the form of deity, stipulations according to Agama scriptures, traditions, customs etc. Only who has thorough knowledge of all these can comprehend. These are the aspects that are not to be looked into just with a social angle. One should understand scriptures with positivity. Lord Ayyappa Swami is the direct embodiment of one who is observing the vow of celibacy. This rule is in vogue as part of those observances since ancient times. Violation of this rule does not augur favor to the country. One should understand this rule as the diety’s special observance of a vow. In fact, other religions also have some specific similar rules which seem like discrimination. Why do the courts who do not interfere into those show discernments against Hindu Dharma? This inequality is not required. ‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 1

Tattvamasi Svarūpa Ayyappa – Contd.. from page 1 ANNAD , VASUDH …’

‘ Ā Ā

Ajñāna (Ignorance) of all the Rishis vanished completely without even a trace just by looking at Lord Dakshinamurti in that posture. His very form represents the unification of and Hara. Looking at Hari and Hara as one form without any differences, and realizing that the entire universe is pervaded by one God i.e. ‘Sivāya Viṣṇu Rūpāya Śiva Rūpāya Viṣṇavē’ leading to Harihara Advaita is the quintessence of His form. Vedas decree -

‘Śivāya Viṣṇu Rūpāya Śiva Rūpāya Viṣṇavē | Śivasya hr̥dayaṁ viṣṇu: Viṣṇōśca hr̥dayaṁ śiva: || Yathā śivamayaṁ viṣṇu: Ēvaṁ viṣṇumayaṁ śiva: | Yathāntaraṁ na paśyāmi tathāmē svastirāyuṣi || “Śiva is the form of Viṣṇu; Viṣṇu is the form of Śiva; Śiva is the heart of This nāmās are in continuation of the ‘Sāvitri’ Viṣṇu; Viṣṇu is the heart of Śiva; Śiva is the amalgamation of Viṣṇu; nāma. ‘Sāvitri’ is nothing but worship of Divine Viṣṇu is the amalgamation of Śiva; Those who does not observe any Mother present in the halo of Sun. Such worship difference between Śiva and Viṣṇu shall be bestowed with long life and grants ‘Anna’ i.e. foods. Hence, Mother is called all auspiciousness.” ‘Annadā’. One should ask not only hygenic food, but pure food, because food is the root cause of many maladies (dōṣa) such as ‘Jāti’, ‘āśraya’, and ‘Nimitta’. ‘Jāti’ is by nature such as using onions, radish etc. ‘āśraya’ is by containers such as using copper etc. for offering naivedya. ‘Nimitta’ is from where the origin of the material is. For example, one should not use Bilva leaves obtained from burial grounds for worship. Similarly, if some animals such as cats, dogs, crows etc. see the food, that food should not be consumed. Eating with left hands or while standing should be avoided. Any other maladies that are not within our purview or

control are destroyed when the food is offered to Worship of Ayyappa directly enables one to follow the above directive God as naivedya and consumed later. Here, ‘Anna’ of Veda thereby realizing the mahavakya ‘Tattvamasi’. Let’s all worship does not mean just food. Any kinds of mundane Swami Ayyappa and attain the Brahman with His grace! –Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma. pleasures are also called ‘Anna’. One should ask (Adapted from ‘Ayyappa Swami Vaibhavam’ Pravachanam) Divine Mother to grant such kind of food that purifies one’s mind and intellect. This is what Kanuma – Worship of Cow exactly has been mentioned in the sloka – Cow worship is prevalent in Bhārata since ages. Cow worship is ‘annapūrṇē sadā pūrṇē śaṅkara prāṇa vallabhē | prevalent since ancient ages not only because it provides nourishing jñāna vairāgya siddhyarthaṁ milk, delicious butter and ghee, useful fuel in abundance, grants bhikṣām dēhi ca pārvatī ||’. affluence etc., but also because it has been stipulated as an effective One should ask Divine Mother for such ‘Anna’ i.e. and significant remedy for evil planetary influences, any residual knowledge and dispassion. ‘Vasuda’ is one who effects of sins committed in present and past births, obtaining virtuous grants such riches required to amass required progeny etc. The story of emperor Dilīpa, the ancestor of Lord Rāma, foods. ‘savāyēṣa mahānaja ātmā annānō is a glaring example in this regard. Though Dilīpa was a firm follower vasudānō vindatē vasu yayēvaṁ vēdā’ says of Dharma, a Satyavādi (always speaking truth, keeping his promises . This means that both etc.), a mitabhāṣhi (sparsely speaking as necessary), a Vidvān (erudite) ‘anna’ i.e. foods and ‘vasu’ i.e. riches are being and ruled his praja, loving them as their own father, he was not obtained due to ‘Mahan’ i.e. the great and ‘Aja’ blessed with progeny for a long time. As worship of cow is worship of i.e. one which is never born i.e. the Divine all the gods, he performed the mistake of not worshipping one who is Mother. Hence, it means that Divine Mother is worthy of worship, the Kāmadhenu. When Vasistha told him the same the one who grants foods and riches. ‘Vasu’ and instructed to worship Nandini, Dilipa did the same, proved his means riches. ‘vasu Prakruṣtam Mokshām’ i.e. mettle in the service offering his own life to save Nandini and later was the greatest among riches is . Hence, blessed with emperor Raghu, after whom the entire clan came to be ‘Vasuda’ means one who grants moksha. Great called later. poet Kalidasa says, One can fed the cow with whatever is healthier for them. Residuals, “hrīm hrīmiti pratidinaṁ japatāntarākhyāṁ | leftover rice and other materials, those touched by women when they kim nāma durlabhamiha tripurādhivāsē || are during their menstruation cycle should not be fed to cows and they māla kirīṭa mada vāraṇa mānanīya | shouldn't even stay in the vicinity. Following is the that should tāṁ sēvatē vasumatī svayamēva lakṣmyā ||” be chanted while feeding the cow - i.e. O Mother! What is not attainable for those Saurabhēyā ssarvahitā: Sarvapāpa praṇāśanā:| who continuously chant Your name? Everyone in Pratigrhṇantu grāsaṁ gāvastrailōkya mātara: || ̥ this world prostrate at their feet and earth This mantra is told by Maharshi . It is good to feed cows herself provides everything for them’. Let’s chanting this mantra along with the mantra of their chosen deity. worship Divine Mother with these nāmas and Scriptures mention that one who feeds cows with grass and other obtain Her grace! materials before eating shall certainly attain good state. - Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.

(Adapted from ‘Sri Lalitha ’ Pravachanam)

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 2

(Sadguru Sri Sivananda Murthy garu born on December 21, 1928 ) Who, how and when one should wear Bhasma

For the purification of this filthy body made up of bone, flesh, blood, serum etc. scriptures prescribed many methods. Out of those, one should definitely practice wearing Bhasma (ash). Per their traditions, they can wear tilak, gopi chandana etc. It is important to understand that the wearing of Bhasma is not for just Saivas, but for all Smartas. Smartas are those who conduct themselves are mentioned by i.e. Vedas. Hence, anyone worshipping the gods mentioned in Vedas should wear Bhasma. It is imperative that one loses the minimum worthiness of prostrating to God if one does not wear either Bhasma or Tilak.

(1) Tripuṇḍraṁ sajalaṁ bhasma dhr̥tvā pūjāṁ karōti yaḥ | śivapūjāṁ phalaṁ sāṅgaṁ tathaivahi suniścitaṁ || Only one who wears Bhasma in three lines and performs the worship of Lord Siva shall attain complete merits.

(2) Bhasmāprāptau muniśrēṣṭhāḥ pravr̥ttē śivapūjanē | tasmānmr̥dāpi kartavyaṁ lalāṭē ca tripuṇḍrakaṁ || While performing the worship of Siva, one should at least wear Tripundra with mud if Bhasma is not available even after attempt.

(3) Bhasmōddhūlanaṁ caiva yathā tiryak tripuṇḍrakaṁ | pramādādapi mōkṣārthī na tyajēditi viśrutiḥ || Those aspiring for the grace of God and moksha should not leave wearing Bhasma even forgetfully.

(4) Uddhūlanaṁ tripuṇḍraṁ ca śraddhayā nācaranti yē | tēṣāṁ nāsti vinirmuktiḥ sansārāt janmakōṭibhiḥ ||

(5) Uddhūlanaṁ tripuṇḍraṁ ca śraddhayā nācaranti yē | tēṣāṁ nāsti śivajñānaṁ kalpakōṭiśatairapi || Though performing many kinds of practices and worship of Siva,, one shall not attain ‘Siva Jnana’ and liberation from the cycle of births and deaths after one crore births, if they did those without wearing Bhasma.

(7) Uddhūlanaṁ tripuṇḍraṁ ca śraddhayā nācaranti yē | tē mahāpātakairyuktā iti śāstrīya nirṇayaḥ || Scriptures decree that who does not wear Tripundra with faith are those who have stock of sins.

(8) Sitēna bhasmanā kuryāt trisandhyaṁ yastripuṇḍrakaṁ | sarvapāpa vinirmuktaḥ śivēna saha mōdatē || Those who wears Bhasma all three times of the day – morning, afternoon, and evening – shall be relieved from all sins and reach Lord Siva.

(9) Na tyājyaṁ sarvavarṇaiśca bhasma dhāraṇam uttamaṁ It is preeminent for everyone to wear Bhasma irrespective of their caste and creed.

(10) Bhasmasnānēna yāvantaḥ kaṇāḥ svāṅgē pratiṣṭhitāḥ | tāvanti śivaliṅgāni tanau dhattēhi dhārakaḥ || When one applies Bhasma to different parts of the body, the body becomes purified because it gets transformed into one containing that many Siva lingas as many the number of cells present in those parts.

(11) Tripuṇḍraṁ yē vinindanti nindanti śivamēva tē | dhārayanti ca yē bhaktyā dhārayanta tamēva tē || Those who dishonor Tripundra are dishonoring Siva Himself; those who wear are honoring Siva Himself.

(12) Strībhistripuṇḍramalakāvadhi dhāraṇīyaṁ Women should wear as three lines not crossing the curls falling over forehead.

(13) Bhr̥vōrmadhyaṁ samārabhya yāvadantō bhavēdbhr̥vōḥ | tāvatpramāṇaṁ sandhāryaṁ lalāṭē ca tripuṇḍrakaṁ || Men should start Tripundra from the center of eyebrows and wear till they don’t cross the eyebrows.

(14) Tripuṇḍraṁ kurutē yastu bhasmanā vidhipūrvakaṁ | mahāpātaka saṅghātairmucyatē cōpapātakaiḥ || Those wearing Vibhuti as three lines following the prescribed stipulations shall be relieved from great sins and even auxiliary sins.

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 3

Garuda Maha Purana

nārāyaṇaṁ namaskrtyḁ narancaivā narōttamaṁ! dēvīṁ sarasvatīṁ vyāsaṁ tatō jayamu dhīrayet!! vyāsaṃ vasiṣṭha naptāraṃ śakteḥ pautramakalmaṣam! parāśarātmajaṃ vande śukatātaṃ taponidhim!!

dharma dhr̥ḍha baddhamūlō nigama skanda: purāṇa śākhāḍhyā : | kratu kusumō mōkṣa phalō madhusūdana pādapūjayati ||

‘Viṣnu is the tree whose roots are resolute dharma that can hold the tree, stem is nigamas, branches are , flowers are rituals stipulated in Vedas, and the fruit is mōkṣa itself – to the Feet of that Viṣnu, I prostrate’

Garuda Purana has great distinction. It has been narrated by none other than Lord Himself to Garuda. It has been later passed on to sage , who narrated to sage Veda Vyasa, who narrated to Suta Pouranika. Once when sage and others approached for the ultimate knowledge, He prayed Lord who re-told the same Purana to Rudra and also mentioned that He once told the same to Garuda. Thus, Lord Siva heard this Purana directly from Lord Narayana. This can be considered as another traditional lineage through which this Purana reached the multitudes. Hence, it is very important to understand and remember that every word in this Purana is the word of Lord Viṣnu Himself.

There are many doubts, fears, apprehensions, and even irritations when one hears the title ‘’. Skeptics and scholars alike, to some extent, were unable to comprehend the truth. Below are some of the most common myths about Garuda Purana – 1. Garuda Purana is that Purana which is read only during those ten days when some leaves this world. 2. One should not keep Garuda Purana in their homes. None of the above have scriptural substantiation. In fact, they can be termed as blind trusts and orthodox beliefs. Another fact about which many are not aware is the Garuda Purana that is read during the ten days when someone leaves this world contains sixteen chapters only. The current discourse is aimed to discuss about Garuda Maha Purana that contains two hundred and ninety-three chapters, out of which above mentioned sixteen chapters are form a part. Garuda Purana is divided into two parts – 1. Purva Khandam also known as āchāra Kanda containing 243 chapters 2. Uttara Khandam which is again divided into Dharma Kanda and Kanda containing 42 and 29 chapters respectively. Some of the extra chapters have been added by rishis later. In Dharma Kanda’s ‘Preta Kalpam’ portion, sixteen chapters are taken out and published as ‘Garuda Purana Sāroddhāram’ that relate the context of jiva’s journey after this life, different paths that are taken based on actions performed here in this world etc. It is very important to note that these aspects are described in every Purana. It is very essential to note that one should study all eighteen puranas together as one science rather than approaching in parts. This provides an overall and comprehensive view about various aspects of Sanatana Dharma. Professor Wilson, a western scholar who performed extensive research on puranas with emphasis on Garuda Purana mentioned that Garuda Purana is an encyclopedia of Hindu Dharma. This clarifies that Garuda Purana aids one in understanding the true Hindu Dharma discriminating it from various myths and cults that creeped into it later and are finally trying to take over projecting themselves as the true dharma. Garuda Purana is a treasure house that contains the true form of Sanatana Dharma as it existed at the beginning of the creation, it’s traditions, beliefs, customs, and even the knowledge of Vedanta that makes one realize the Supreme Brahman.

Maharshi Veda Vyasa mentions about Garuda Purana in Mahabharata. In Mahabharata, there is an extensive chapter called ‘Mōkṣa Dharmā:’ told by Garuda to many Rishis. While elucidating these , Garuda describes how he became the vehicle of Lord Narayana. He mentions that he performed severe , upon which Lord Narayana appeared like a lightning and immediately disappeared. Later, Garuda heard a voice asking him to come along. He followed the voice and ultimately reached , the final abode of Lord Narayana. Viṣnu then showed Garuda His true form and later imparted Garuda with His (Viṣnu’s) knowledge. Finally, He made Garuda His vehicle. This entire knowledge imparted by Viṣnu to Garuda later came to be known as Garuda Purana.

Why this Purana is called Garuda Purana? Because Rudra, Kasyapa, and others listened, it could even have been called after any of their names. In Gajendra Mōkṣa chapter of Srimad Bhagavata, Garuda is described as ‘Chandō mayēna Garuda.’ Just by reminiscing Garuda, one gets rid of all poisons – internal and external. Garuda is the one who brought the nectar – Amrita – to free his mother from slavery. Garudopanishad mentions that Amrita is nothing but Brahma Vidya. Poisons are nothing but the delusions created by and tendencies that drag one into the mundane. Hence, the real implication of the statement ‘Garuda is the destroyer of poison’ is ‘Garuda destroys Ajñāna’. Garuda removes the rajas and tamas tendencies deeply rooted in the hearts and grants the nectar of Brahmavidya. - Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma. (Adapted from ‘Garuda Maha Puranam’ Pravachanam) Among many works of Maharshi Veda Vyasa, ‘Garuda Puranam’ is one of the eighteen Puranas. Many false allegations and myths have been spread about this Purana. But westerners like Peter Wilson venerated this Purana and eulogized it as the ‘Encyclopedia of entire Hindu Dharma’. Maharshi Veda Vyasa Himself said that just keeping Garuda Purana at home bestows Akhanda Lakshmi (infinite wealth). In this series, Brahmasri Dr. Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma garu, in his own inimitable style of presentation, not only dispels all those doubts, but also elucidates the Purana’s distinction in expounding the eternal truths and day-to-day Dharmas.

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 4

Major Festivals In This Month

From Tuesday Mārgaśira Bahuḷa Ēkādaśi to Thursday Puṣya Bahuḷa Ēkādaśi

Mārgaśira completes at the beginning of month. Puṣya month for which Lakṣmi-Nārayana are the presiding deities begins in Hemanta season. The presiding planetary deity of Puṣyami star is Brihaspati (Jupiter). Puṣyami star is related to Śaniśwara (Saturn). Even small observances propitiating Śaniśwara yields greater merits and provides relief from Śani. Makara , where in Pitruyana ends and Devayana begins, is an auspicious occasion. Hence, this is not only big festival, but also the festival of ‘big ones’ i.e. the ancestors. It is very eminent to offer clothes and sesame in charity in this month.

Performing the worship of Viṣnu, fasting etc. not only removes sins, but also bestows the grace of Lord Narayana. Performing Abhishek and worship of Siva on the Masa Sivaratri day of this month which has the prominence of star Mrigasira is highly meritorious.

Offering Tarpana to Pitrus bestows the grace of Pitrus.

Monday January 14, 2019 – Bhogi Festival On this day, worship of and other chosen deities should be done. Bhogi fire is kindled on this day either in front of houses or in road junctions. It is traditional that all the cow dung balls that have been put before the homes through the full Dhanurmasa are flattened, made as a garland and are put in fire by children. It is good to kindle fire with sufficient fuel, cow dung cakes etc. chanting the name of God. This not only destroys evil forces, but also grants affluence.

Tuesday January 15, 2019 Makara Sankranti Because Sankramana starts on the night of Puṣya Bahula Ashtami January 14, 2019, Makara Sankranti should be celebrated on Tuesday January 15, 2019. Auspicious hours are between 6.53 AM and 12.25 PM with the interval between 6.53 and 8.44 being preeminent. Sun enters the zodiac of Makara and Uttarayana begins on this day. Any japa of mantra, nama, meditation, parayana, offerings etc. on this day yields great merits. Offering tarpana to departed ancestors grants them exalted state and prosperity of the clan. ‘Ravi saṅkramaṇē prāptē na snāyādyāstu mānava, saptajanma surōgasyāt nirdhanaścaiva jāyatē’ – One should certainly do ablutions as stipulated during the time of Sankramana. Offer paddy, fruits, fans, clothes, gold, vegetables, roots, sesame, sugarcane, cow etc. in charity. Lighting lamp with sesame oil in Lord Siva’s presence and performing worship to Siva with mixture of rice and sesame is preeminent. One should eat sesame seeds in some form this day. Also one should eat only one time this day.

Wedneday January 16, 2019 Kanuma Distinction of this day is to worship harvest and livestock as the form of Goddess Lakshmi, because they sustain us with the power of nutrition inherent in them. Special worship to cows and bulls treating them as embodiments of God should be done.

Thursday January 17, 2019 Mukkanuma, Putradā ēkādaśi, Raivata Manvādi Mukkanuma is exclusively the festival of animals. Worship of cow is done on this day. Performing Ekadasi on this day not only bestows progeny, but also relieves one from hell. Performing Pitru Shraddha on this Raivata Manvadi, whichis one among the 96 kinds, satisfies Pitrus.

Friday January 18, 2019 Śrī kūrma dvādaśi, Surūpā dvādaśīvrataṁ Worship of Maha Vishnu on Dwadasi grants beauty to both body and mind thereby giving joy and pleasure. This worship also bestows Jnana.

Monday January 21, 2019 Purnima Since Purnima has the complete power of the entire month, performance of worship, charity, japa etc. on this day yields distinct merits.

Friday January 25, 2019 – Tyagaraja Samaradhana Tyagayya is such great Maharshi who not only merged with the Supreme Brahman with his Nadopasana i.e. worship with music, but also inspiring many towards devotion even today with his mantra- equivalent compositions on all gods. Worship of that Maharshi on this day at least relieves us of some debt of Rishis.

Thursday January 30, 2019 - Ṣaṭtila ēkādaśi One should take bath with water mixed with sesame seeds. Similarly, eating sesame, mixing them in drinking water, worshipping gods with sesame seeds, and offering them in charity is done on this day. Hence, this day is called Shat (Six) Tila Ekadashi.

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 5

The Eternal Part 2 Sanatana Dharma in practice – Brahmasri Dr. Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma ‘The institution of ‘ālaya’’ ĀGAMA STIPULATIONS - HINDU TEMPLES ARE CENTERS OF ‘Tanyatē vistāryatē anēnēti tantraṁ’ – CONCENTRATED ENERGY is that by which knowledge to save the beings Tanōti vipulānardhān tattvamantra samanvitān | is spread. trāṇaṁ ca kurutē yasmāt tantramityabhidhīyatē || Tantra details out rituals, their procedures ‘The which spreads the great knowledge concerning Tatva and Mantra and even protects and stipulations which have to be adhered is known as Tantrashastra.’ and astutely followed in ālaya. All these procedures and processes of Tantra Many questions the rationale behind the various stipulations judiciously followed in have been stipulated in Vedas, Agamas, and various temples since times immemorial. They even go to an extreme extent mentioning many other Tantra treatises. The word that some sections of feel alienated because of these stipulations. They mention ‘Tantra’ is a combination of two processes, that those sections are dissatisfied due to these so called, restrictions and regulations ‘Tanoti’ and ‘Trāyati’, meaning expansion and imposed upon them. Before passing such rash comments and making such unauthentic liberation. The root ‘tan’ stands for the word statements, it is very essential to thoroughly comprehend the why, what, and how of this tanōti and the root ‘tra’ stands for the word complete process, methods, and procedures. One shall certainly appreciate the wisdom trayati. The word ‘Tanōti’ means to stretch, to and farsightedness of our maharshis even just with a surficial comprehension. A deep extend, to elaborate, and to expand. The insight into these aspects of Tantra baffles the mind and intellect. One can’t but remain word ‘Trāyati’ means to liberate, to free, and astounded and offer sincere obeisance to the compassion, knowledge, profundity and to separate. Hence, tantra is a process of expansion and finally absolute freedom in the clarity of our Maharshis. While anyone can touch an ordinary piece of wood, only an highest existence. Many of the are electrician wearing proper gear, carrying right equipments, and thoroughly trained can purely Vedic in origin. They can be handle an electrical problem in one’s house. Similarly, for treatment of one’s own kith conveniently put into two progressive and kin, one can’t break loose and start taking control of hospital’s equipment. Only a categories of Shruti - revealed scriptures - and physician is allowed to do so, in order to avoid infections, not even one’s own mother. Smriti - transmitted by memory - Tantras that Just as microscopic creatures that create infection are only experienced but not seen by have their existence in shruti and follow the human eye, similarly the inherent potential and divine energy that manifests with the Vedic tradition implicitly are shrauta tantras. strict adherence to the stipulations in temples can only be felt and experienced but can’t Those tantras having all respect for shruti but be seen. Again, drawing parallel, just like a physician educated and trained in heart which adjust with the ever-shifting social treatment only can perform heart surgery, likewise the priest who has been well taught, concepts are known as smarta tantras.With the power of their sincere, profound, and induced into these worship practices right from childhood and initiated into the austere tapas, maharshis envisioned many procedures of conducting such complex rituals thoroughly is the appropriate authority. great truths, which have been simplified and It’s absolutely necessary to bear in mind that Hindu Mandirs are repositories of streamlined for our purpose as tremendous energy, not just structures of stone, brick, and mortar. implementable practices. These include the Following are some fundamental principles everyone should bear in mind and follow –

conduct of daily rituals, pujas on special , • Before questioning or commenting, one should question oneself about festivities and other observances during one’s own eligibility and worthiness. One should reflect within if they festivals, periodic rituals such as ever performed any austerities, read or at least listened to any of our Kumbhahishekam that has to be performed once in twelve years etc. These scriptures also great scriptures, epics, treatises etc. laid out minute details about how to conduct, • For any debates on these kinds of issues, it’s not logical temperament what needs to be offered to deity during that forms the basis. It is the scriptures that form the basis and provide those times, what are the appropriate actual substantiation. portions of mantra or that are to be • Belief with complete faith in what has been stipulated in Vedas, Agamas, chanted during the conduct of those events, Tantras, and etc. is absolutely essential. specific decorations etc. Divine Mother is • Devout following of the prescribed stipulations during visits to kshetras described as ‘Sarva Mantra Swarupini, Sarva and teerthas and sincerely executing to all the mentioned guidelines Yantratmika, and Sarva Tantra Rupa’ i.e. She is the embodiment of all , inherent certainly bestows the grace of that deity and yields benefits later. energy in all yantras, and form of different • It is to be noted that some of these rules and regulations are related to hygiene and kinds of tantras. These appear in perfect asthetics. When everyone was allowed to touch the main deity’s idol in one of the order in Sri . Hence, ancient temples, it disturbed the ancient sculpture and over a period of time, the idol’s it is very important to understand that feet looked scratched. Yantra, Mantra, and Tantra go together. It is important to understand that the entire management of temple is nothing but to Yantra, Mantra, and Tantra are different for make sure that there are no deviations from stipulated practices. Management has to each deity. Advent of modern technologies in just concentrate and execute what has been mentioned in scriptures rather than looking fact is aiding more in demonstrating and around to introduce or innovate anything new. substaintiating the veracity and wisdom of (Adapted from multiple sources) Hindu scriptures and treatises. Rituals in all the Hindu ālayas are not performed for the benefit of those who perform them, but aspiring the welfare of the entire universe. sankalpam says, ‘Asmin grāmē sthitānām sarvēṣām cāturvarṇānām kṣēma sthairya vijaya abhaya āyurārōgya siddhyarthaṁ’ i.e. everyone belonging to all religions, all castes, all cultures, all traditions residing in my village shall be blessed with welfare, peace, victory, longevity, good health, affluence’. Rudram says,’ Viśvaṁ puṣṭaṁ grāmē asmin nanāturaṁ’ i.e. every tree, beast, bird, being, creature in my vicinity shall be prosperous.’

Wise men call the knowledge that which saves and leads man towards the ultimate goal as Tantra. Aṣṭa Kṣīra Samudra Mathana Phalāni WORDS OF BENEVOLENCE

1. hālāhala 2. uccaiśrava

śarvarī dīpakaścandraḥ prabhātō ddīpākō raviḥ 3. airāvata 4. kalpa vr̥ kṣa trailōkyadīpakō dharmaḥ suputraḥ kuladīpakaḥ 5. kāmadhēnu 6. candra Moon lights the night. Sun radiates in the day. Dharma shines all the three worlds. A virtuous son brightens the entire clan. 7. lakṣmī dēvi 8. amr̥ ta pratiṣṭhitaṁ ‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 6

The Four Strategic Forms - Caturvyūha Rūpā:

Namō bhagavatē tubhyaṁ vāsudēvāya dhīmahi | Pradyumnāyāniruddhāya nama: Saṅkarṣaṇāya ca || - 1.5.37

This sloka in Srimad Bhagavata is not just like any other sloka and is quite distinct. This is Mahamantra in itself. The ‘One Supreme God’ who is the complete orchestrator of three major actions in this universe - creation, sustenance, and dissolution – is known by the name ‘Vāsudēva’.

At the time of creation, He Himself manifests with great effulgence. Since His ‘Dyumna’ i.e. radiance is ‘Prakrushta’ i.e. preeminent, He is called ‘’. Because, He sustains this entire creation and protects from all obstructions, He is called ‘’. Because, He extracts into Himself and dissolves the entire creation, He is called ‘Saṅkarṣaṇa’.

The embodied forms of Supreme God which does creation, sustenance, and dissolution are Pradyumna, Aniruddha, and Saṅkarṣaṇa respectively. One who is the basis for all these three forms is called ‘Vāsudēva’. Entire universe is stage- managed with these four forms. Hence, these four forms are called ‘The Four Strategic Forms’ of the Lord. Pradyumna, Aniruddha, and Saṅkarṣaṇa respectively represent the three states with the syllables ‘A’, ‘U’, and ‘M’. ‘Vāsudēva’ is the Turiya beyond these three states. Combination of these four is nothing but ‘Praṇava’. Since all the three major actions representing the universe and the state beyond the universe are represented in these four names, these four names are called Mahamantras, though Lord has innumerable names.

There is one more mystery embedded into these names. Many are aware that there are twenty-four permeated across the universe. Though material scientists may differ from this number, principally they all lead to same tattvas. These twenty four are – Panchabhootas i.e. the five elements (Air, Water, Ether, Fire, and Earth), Pancha i.e. the five subtle elements (Sound, Touch, Form, Taste, and Smell), Pancha Jnanendriyas i.e. five organs of sense (Eyes, Ears, Skin, Tongue, and Nose), Pancha Karmendriyas i.e. five organs of action (Hands, Legs, Mouth, Rectum, and Genitals), and Anta:Karanam i.e. the inner subtle senses – Mana: mind, Buddhi: intellect, Chitta: heart, and ego. What is it that we should truly rectify among these twenty-four tattvas? Though all the twenty-four tattvas are working, it is really the four inner subtle senses that are the basis for all these remaining twenty tattvas and make them work. One should attempt to realize the origin by which all these twenty are effectively functioning. For the sake of identification and realization, the God present in each is given name and hence the twenty-four namas starting with Kesava and completing with Srikrishna. Before embarking upon any sacred ritual, it is stipulated to purify these twenty-four tattvas. Hence, in any puja sankalpa, these twenty four namas are chanted upfront. If understood, one shall prostrate to the compassion of our rishis who yearned so dearly to transform our lives prescribing to chant these twenty-four namas daily. And, it is indeed very sad to note the ignorance of people who are living pushing aside such great traditions without even a pinch of regret! Just the sankalpa at the beginning of the puja itself is so profound and marvelous directing one to purify the inner twenty-four tattvas.

Since the four principal tattvas among these twenty four are described by the four forms Vāsudēva, Pradyumna, Aniruddha, and Saṅkarṣaṇa which dictate chitta, ahamkara, buddhi, and manas i.e. heart, ego, intellect, and mind resepectively, continuous reminiscence of these four namas purifies the four planes of anta:karana, and thereby makes one ultimately realize the Vishnu present within. Hence, these are termed as Mahamantra. It is not simple. They are very efficacious. It is very difficult even to estimate their potential.

Another important aspect of this sloka is ‘Dhimahi’ and ‘Bhagavate’. With the word ‘Dhimahi’ and ‘Namo’ both of which are Pranavas defined in the Vedas, this sloka attained the state equal to Gayatri Mahamantra. To denote that the said God is nothing but the Supreme Parabrahman, ‘Bhagavate’ word is embedded here. This has the ‘ Dwadaskshari’ mahamantra embedded within. This is the same mantra rishi Narada was given when he was the son of a servant maid. He chanted continuously and became Devarshi Narada.

Remembrance of just one sloka in Srimad Bhagavata is sufficient. It kindles the fire in our hearts and ultimately reduces all our actions to ashes. - Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma

(Adapted from ‘Srimad Bhagavata Vak Satra Yagam’Pravachanam)

42 days Pravachanam by Brahmasri Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma garu audio CDs released. It can be instantly purchased and downloaded. https://rushipeetham.com/product/srimad-bhagawatham-8-cds-e-download/

: https://rushipeetham.com/rushipeetham-store/

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 7

How to unite Bh ārata and make it more robust? – Swami Vivekananda Many observers – western and eastern – proclaim that entire Bhārata has one common thread running across as it’s lifeline – it’s culture, civilization, beliefs, traditions, customs etc. are almost similar, of course with some regional variations that cropped over a period of time. The way of life, culture, education, knowledge that is native to Bhārata is called ‘Sanatana Dharma’ or ‘Hinduism’. Hinduism and Indianism are not different. It is interesting to note that the name does not come from any book or preacher. Epics such as and Mahabharata are venerable across the country. Though there are some differences in some customs such as almanac calculations etc. everyone does their puja sankalpa mentioning ‘ Varshe Bharata Khande..’. Swami Vivekananda observed that society of Bhārata has both extremes – one set of people who are very conservative, ultimate traditional to the core, strictly following native customs, and strongly believing that all others who are not in this path are inferior to them – and another set who are thoroughly convinced that India certainly needs rejuvenation and upliftment from the old school of orthodoxy and that is possible only with the adaptation of western civilization, culture, eating and dressing habits etc. He also noted that women and commoners are completely neglected. Hence, he laid down the following steps to rejuvenate Bhārata, restore it’s lost glory, make it more robust and receive international acclaim – 1. Unite entire Bhārata with it’s culture – the Sanatana Dharma. 2. Every Bhāratīya should take pride in their own culture. Every Bharatīya should get rid of the inferior feeling forcibly impressed by the rulers. 3. Upliftment of women and commoners is vital. - Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma. (Adapted from ‘Life & Success of Swami Vivekananda’ pravachanam) January 12th is Swami Vivekananda’s Birthday

SANATANA DHARMA Being nice to cows saves the world Sastri, 78, grew up in Chidambaram, by the Bay of Bengal in Southern India, moved to the United States in 1964 for grad school, and spent 28 years teaching engineering at New York City College of Technology in Brooklyn. Being a devout Hindu, he began

to ponder over his next life and wonder if he'd done enough good deeds. "The says whatever you have done in the past and in this life follows AROUND THE WORLD you," he explained. Sastri decided in 2000 that saving cows was not only his way forward,but also a way to save the world from many other ills. His thought is now his 90-acre Lakshmi Cow Sanctuary in Monroe County. The goal of the Lakshmi Cow Sanctuary, a nonprofit, is to save cows destined for the slaughterhouse. "If you look at all the living beings in this world, the most loving and compassionate animal is the cow," Sastri said. "They give and give and give."

University of California to work with Hindu Community for establishing ‘Hindu Chairs’ Most School After sustained engagement with the Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity (OEOD), the University of California has issued a letter to Dharma Civilization Foundation, expressing both regret for any misunderstanding as well as continued interest in working with the Hindu community to establish Hindu Chairs at University of California, Irvine.

Bali to bring in new rules for visiting Hindu temples after decline in 'Quality of tourists' Authorities in Bali, Indonesia have vowed to stop westerners in bikinis posing in front of sacred temples and clambering over sacred Hindu structures, as they lament a decline in the “quality of tourists” visiting the island. Bali deputy governor Tjokorda Oka Sukawati said the authorities had been concerned by a recent rise in disrespectful behavior by tourists visiting Bali’s hundreds of sacred Hindu sites. He said, “The temples need to be preserved since they are the spirits of Bali’s cultures and customs.”

Hindu American Foundation Announces Launch of "I Am Hindu American" Digital Campaign Hindu American Foundation launched a new campaign – I Am Hindu American – to improve awareness of the Hindu religion and Hindu Americans. www.IAmHinduAmerican.org. The goal of the nationwide campaign is to boost awareness and clarify common stereotypes and misunderstandings about Hinduism. The platform will be interactive, encouraging Hindu Americans to upload a photo of themselves and share how Hinduism inspires them in their everyday lives. There are many Hindu contributions to our daily lives: from yoga and meditation to the decimal system as well as an understanding of the law of cause and effect known as karma. Another goal of the “I Am Hindu American” campaign is to educate about Hinduism during a period where the country has seen a rise in religious intolerance. Hate crime incidents reported to the FBI increased by about 17% last year compared to 2016 according to statistics released earlier this month by the FBI. To learn more about “I Am Hindu American”, please visit www.IAmHinduAmerican.org. Disclaimer: - The information provided under ‘Sanatana Dharma Around the World’ session is collected from various sources. Readers may check for accuracy. ‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 8

Open letter to Arthur Vullampalli Dear Arthur,

We have been noticing from quite a while, your mischievous profiles on social media and the content you are posting in it with malicious intent against Hinduism. We had a few questions for you and some well-known facts which we would like for you to ponder upon, if you had the least bit of conscience.

1) You keep twisting quotes from the Hindu scriptures trying to "justify" Christ and Christianity. Is it because you acknowledge that the Bible and your Saints have nothing in them to glorify about or quote from? Or is it because you subconsciously agree that Christianity is no match for Hinduism on the intellectual and spiritual front, hence trying to appropriate the Hindu scriptures and practices to profess the Christian faith?

2) Please explain the link between Christ and the Prajaapatis, quoting from the Hindu scriptures. And where did the Bible mention about "abhishekams and yajnams”? The Christian faith is neither related to Bhaarat bhoomi nor to Sanatan Dharma, this is basic common sense. So, your attempts to whitewash Jesus as the Supreme Personality extolled by the Vedas is grossly absurd. Your desperate and malicious attempts are only leading to Christ being converted to Hinduism. This Facebook post is a deliberate misrepresentation of Brahmasri Dr. Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma Garu’s pravachanams by Arthur 3) You may argue that you are trying to spread "light". If that's the case, Vullampalli distorting facts and twisting them to suit imaginations. why don't you try spreading light to the deluded souls in the Middle This rebuttal is a must read. Eastern Nations involved in spreading terrorism across the globe, who are slaughtering innocent humans merely because they are "infidels"? Try spreading "peace" to those countries by creating another Jesuit cult or a social media page where men grow beard and offer Namaaz to Jesus 5 times a day from a Christian Koran. You don't have the guts, do you? Not even when you are a "believer" of the "true Savior". Hypocrisy at its best, isn't it?

4) You are choosing to create mischief in the very land/Dharma that embraced your faith with open arms, a land that taught and still teaches the world "lokaah samastaa sukhino bhavantu" and let you thrive in peace all through these years. This reminds us of the story where a man nurtures a dying snake for days, and one fine day, the snake strikes and kills the master mercilessly, stating it was his nature to bite.

5) Hinduism is a scientific, philosophical and spiritual ideology that took birth in the lands of abundance and prosperity. It isn't a mere Western faith that believes in spreading its tentacles to prosperous countries, sucking the resources out of them, enslaving and committing mass genocides of people not belonging to the faith, carrying out crusades, trampling and destroying vast sophisticated cultures, etc, hence reducing them to "third world countries", and now boasting about how prosperous they are. The once glorious culture of the Mayans and other spiritually ripe cultures still stand witness to the rampage and atrocities committed against them by the so called "religion of love".

6) We notice that people of your likes still have your Hindu names and surnames attached, unable to detach themselves completely from their original Hindu identity, yet trying to stay faithful to their new-found Western masters. This resembles a base woman who has deserted her loving and faithful husband and choosing to be the mistress of a perverted man she lusts after, trying to impose the qualities of her deserted husband which are nonexistent in her new-found partner. You know very well how such women have been branded since ages, even by the man she pursued giving up her husband.

6) Your actions prove that you have neither the faith nor respect for the Bible or for your Saints, and hence trying to lean on Hindu Saints, scriptures and pravachankaars, using their pictures to propagate quotes that they never mentioned. We have never seen anyone stoop THIS low. All these base actions have convinced us that the Bible and your Saints have absolutely nothing significant to benefit humanity, hence you are resorting to these techniques.

7) Comparing a cross and a Trishulam is the most ridiculous comparison anyone would have come across in life. Your cross is the structure on which your God was helplessly bound to and tortured to death by people, while the Trishulam is a weapon which the Lord of the Hindus uses to punish the evil and protect the devout. It is a pity that you are incapable of understanding this fundamental concept that points out the difference between the Lord of the Hindus and the Christian "Savior".

8) We understand that due to the rise of Dharma in Western lands in the form of Yoga, , , Meditation etc, the awareness on Hinduism is spreading and being appreciated, posing a threat to the survival of religions and cults which are intellectually, philosophically and spiritually backward, even if they are major religions. But as we have mentioned, using these very same concepts of Hinduism for survival makes a religion more of a parasite that isn't self-sufficient, and needs to depend on a more powerful being for its survival.

9) Lastly, your tactics of using the pictures of Saints and our scriptures makes you liable for legal action. And also remember that with the advent of social media, you are now being watched. If you believe Bible and Christ are potent enough to attract followers, you may give up these nefarious online activities of using Hindu concepts to promote your faith. If you keep repeating this, it is an indicator of you accepting defeat of the Bible and Christ in the hands of Sanatan Dharma and hence trying to be a parasite.

We sincerely pray to that (Whom even the Western world is slowly accepting as the Lord of the Universe with advancements in Science) to release you from all kinds of afflictions that are prompting you into committing such despicable actions and help you surrender to the pure light of Sanatan Vaidik Dharma. May He then forgive all the mischief you had been creating all along.

With best wishes - A Proud Sanaatani with Glorious Ancestral Roots

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 9

Siva Leelas in Mahabharata

Lord Siva gave the Pashupatastra to . He blessed Bhima in a different manner. Bhima was going about the Himalayan mountain range looking for a divine flower. While he was on the path, he came across an old vanara. Knowing that one should not cross an animal’s tail, he asked the vanara to move his tail. The vanara replied saying that he was very old. He then asked Bhima to move the tail himself. No matter how hard Bhima tried he was unable to move the tail. Finally, he realized that perhaps the vanara was some great being in disguise. Bhima then asked the vanara who he was. Then the vanara revealed his identity as . Bhima was extremely delighted and asked Hanuman to show the form that he took to cross the ocean when searching for . After Hanuman fulfilled his wish, he asked Bhima what he wanted. Bhima replied that he wanted Hanuman’s blessings, so they could win the war. Hanuman granted him this wish too. Later on, during the Mahabharata war after the passing of Drona, Ashwathama, who is overcome by grief, uses the extremely powerful Agneyastra hoping to destroy the entire Pandava army along with and Arjuna. Through the power of his , the entire army that came along with Krishna and Arjuna got destroyed. However, the two of them were safe and looked like the Sun and Moon. It is key to note the allegory given here as the moon has no light of its own and shines only because of the sun. In this case, the sun is Krishna and the moon is Arjuna. Disappointed, Ashwathama goes away. He meets Maharshi Veda Vyasa at some distance from the battlefield. After paying his respects, Ashwathama asks why the Astra which he fired didn’t affect Krishna and Arjuna. Then, Veda Vyasa tells Ashwathama the story of Nara and Narayana. Sage Narayana was an of Lord Vishnu who was born as the son of sage Dharma. Sage Narayana went to Badri in Himalayas to perform tapas. As their tapas came to an end, they saw a large ball of light. At the center of the light, he saw a person who had a great jatajuta i.e. matted hairlocks, in which was bound. He saw Lord Siva who had a golden chest plate and whose whole entire body was shining like gold. He had many arms in which there were many weapons. He had three eyes and was with . The only people who were able to see this form were people who are brahmavettas i.e. endowed with the knowledge of Brahman, who have good character, whose all sins have evaporated, and who are beyond the emotions of joy and sorrow. Such form of Lord Siva was seen by Sage Narayana. At that time he prayed to Lord Siva. Then Lord Siva told Sage Narayana that because of His boon, no one would be able to harm Sage Narayana. He also told the sage that because of His boon Narayana would be able to vanquish anyone. After concluding this story, sage Veda Vyasa told Ashwattama that the Sage Narayana was none other than Krishna, hence his Astra failed to harm him. Since through his tapas, Nara came as his amsa i.e. aspect. That Nara is none other than Arjuna. Hence, the two of them cannot be harmed. Maharshi Veda Vyasa also read into Ashwattama’s doubts as to why he wasn’t that strong, even though he too prayed to Lord Siva. Maharshi Veda Vyasa told him that it was because of that tapas and praying only, Aswhattama became strong enough to use the Agneyaastra. However, there was some slight difference between Nara, Narayana, and Ashwattama. Veda Vyasa then told Ashwattama that unlike Nara and Narayana, he did not pray to Lord Siva after knowing about his entire tattva. He only prayed with the knowledge that Lord Siva was a great person who would grant him his wishes. He then goes further to explain that Ashwattama did Vigrahaaradhana. He saw Lord Siva in a human form and did uppacharaas to that form. However, Nara and Narayana did Lingaaradhana. Hence, they got greater benefits. Sage Veda Vyasa then explained that this knowledge was handed down to him from Sage Sanatkumara, who got it from Nandishwara, who got it directly from Lord Siva Himself. After hearing this, Ashwattama was extremely happy. He realized that it was wrong of him to envy Krishna and Arjuna as his Astra didn’t work on them. He paid his respects to Siva and Keshava there and went away happily. After this Veda Vyasa went to Arjuna. Then Arjuna too asked him a question. He began by saying that he didn’t kill anyone in the entire war and that he only let his arrows hit those who were already dead. He said that he and only he saw the person who was actually killing all these people. He then began to describe that person. The person who he saw was right in front of him, however, he was facing the same direction as Krishna and Arjuna. He was large and he had a Trishulam. His Jatajuta looked like it had flames coming out of him. Out of his Trishula, there were multiple other shulas coming out. He was not letting go of his Trishula and nor were his feet touching the ground. He was some Mahapurusha. He was letting his Shula go on whoever it was that Arjuna wished to kill. As soon as the Shula touched the person, they fell down dead. Arjuna merely then hit that dead person with his arrows. He told Maharshi Veda Vyasa that he wanted to know who that person is. Veda Vyasa then replied that the person who Arjuna saw was the Lord of this universe Sankara, Rudra, and Umapathi. After saying so, Sage Veda Vyasa went away. After the entire war of Mahabharata, Arjuna went to Lord Krishna with the same question. Then Lord Krishna too told him that he was Lord Siva. - Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.

(Adapted from ‘Mahabharatam lo Siva Leelalu’ Pravachanam) (To be continued...) ‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 10

Hindu Dharma – Form, Nature and Effect (Adapted from ‘Hindu Dharma Swaroopamu, Swabhavamu, Prabhavamu’ Pravachanam) - Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.

So, we can conclude that the people who worship the divine as Bharata are known as

Bhaarateeya people. This land of which worships is Bharatavarsha and the

people of this land are known as Bhaarateeya people. Therefore, the culture of Bharatavarsha

is such that it inherently includes all knowledge pertaining to the divine and the worship of the divine. In general, in the other cultures of the world, religion and science are considered opposites of each other, especially in the case of other religions, in the West. Their way is to dissect, separate, and analyze. However, the recognition and study of the interconnected nature of all knowledge is inherent in the Bharateeya Dharma. The earlier scientific treatises that were developed in this land, such as Ganita Sastra (mathematics), Ayurveda (medicine) and others are not disconnected from an exploration into the divine. On the contrary, they frequently refer to the divine, and are entwined with philosophical ideas.

In this fashion, the various branches of knowledge developed in this land are interconnected with each other, with the Veda and all together are known as the Hindu Dharma. This conclusion reminds us of Annie Besant’s following words - “Yes it is true that Hindu Dharma exists in India. It is even more true that India exists in the Hindu Dharma!” Swamy Vivekananda, after his world tour when he returned to India in 1896, proclaimed confidently - “After seeing all the world religions, I have come to the realization that my Hindu Dharma has nothing in the world comparable to it.” These are not empty words, but thoughts spoken by two great souls who had seen the world and who had firsthand experience of these things.

Swamy Vivekananda started his famous speech with the following sentences. “It fills my heart with joy unspeakable to rise in response to the warm and cordial welcome which you have given us. I thank you in the name of the most ancient order of monks in the world; I thank you in the name of the mother of religions, and I thank you in the name of millions and millions of Hindu people of all classes and sects.” So, when you explore the other world religions, you will find something from Hindu Dharma reflected in them, but the fullness of thought is found only within the Hindu pantheon. A Western scholar of religion wrote - “Hinduism has exhausted all possible explorations into the nature of the divine and really didn’t leave anything for others.” Translation: Narayanaswamy Sankagiri (To be continued...)

Brahmasri Samavedam Ramamurty Sarmagaru (1931 – 2013)

Śrī Janārdhanāya Namaḥ 2. Sahētukam Avidyārūpam Samsāram Haratīti – Hariḥ 1. Janān Durjanān Ardayati Hinasti Narakādīn Gamayatīti Because You eradicate the cycle of births and deaths though – Janārdhanaḥ there is causative effect of Samsāra due to Avidya, You are One who torments the vice and lands them in hell etc. is called Hari. called Janārdhana. To that You O Hari! My Prostrations!

2. Janaiḥ Abhyudaya Niśśrēyasa Lakṣanam Puruṣārtham Śrī Kr̥ṣṇāya Namaḥ Yācya Iti 1. Kr̥ṣṇa Dwaipāyanō Vyāsaḥ Vyāsō Nārāyaṇō Hariḥ | One who is solicited for the most elevated state ‘Mōkṣa’ i.e. Kr̥ṣṇa Dwaipāyanam Viddhi Vyāsam Nārāyaṇam Prabhum entreated to obtain ‘Mōkṣa’ (Janai Ārdyata Iti) is called ||Kōhyanyaḥ Punḍarīkākṣān Mahābhārata Kr̥dbhavēt Janārdhana. (Viṣṇu Purāṇam) To that You O Janārdhanā! My prostrations. Sri Kr̥ṣṇa Dwaipāyana Vyāsa Himself is none other than Kr̥ṣṇa.

Maharṣi Parāśara says that Vēda Vyāsa is none other than Śrī Upēndrāya Namaḥ Nārāyaṇa Hari. O Maitrēya! Know that Kr̥ṣṇa Dwaipāyana is 1. Indramupagatōnujatyēna Iti = Upēndraḥ Adhavā Upari none other than Lord Nārāyaṇa. Who else other than the Indraḥ lotus-eyed Nārāyaṇa is capable of authoring Mahābhārata? One who incarnated as Vāmana, brother of Indra, is called This clearly implies that Nārāyaṇa Himself composed Upēndra. Also, He is called Upēndra, because He is above Mahābhārata as Vēda Vyāsa (Kr̥ṣṇa). Indra. 2. Natajana Hr̥adayakṣētra Karṣaṇēniṣṭaḥ Kr̥ṣṇaḥ 2. Mamōpari Yadhēndrastvam Sthāpitō Gōbhirīśvaraḥ ‘Sakala Kaṣṭamula Karṣaṇa Cēyucu Satyapadavi Gūrcu | Upēndrēti Kr̥ṣṇa tvām gāsyanti Bhuvi Dēvatāḥ Akaḷakumḍai Kr̥ṣṇuḍanambaḍu Nabhinutintu Niccha || - Hari Vamśam - Brahma Vaivarta Purāṇa Indra is saying, “Sri Kr̥ṣṇa! Cows bathed and worshipped One who cultivates our heart fields, removes the weeds of considering that You are my Master. Hence, Kr̥ṣṇa! Iswara tendencies and lives there is called Kr̥ṣṇa. Because, He and other Gods adulate You as Upēndra.” always lives along with Sridēvi, the embodiment of entire To that You O Upēndra, who is Indra to Indra himself, My affluence, He is called Kr̥ṣṇa. He is none other than the Prostrations! Supreme Parabrahman. Śrī Harayē Namaḥ To that You, the embodiment of Subrahmaṇya O Kr̥ṣṇa! My 1. Harati Bhaktānām Santāpādikam Karmabandhēna Prostrations! Sākamiti – Hariḥ One who destroys the sorrow along with their bondges of Karm a is called Hari.

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 11

śiva jñānaṁ – Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.

Philosophy of Five-Faced Śiva Part 34

1 Embodiment of (Truth) and Jñāna (Knowledge), one without any transformations, and is pristine – Though Śiva is only such one, He still manifests as ‘Five’ with His power to perform the five tasks as mentioned below – 1. āmnāya mantras on East side - (Pūrvāmnāya) emanated from ‘Sadyōjāta’ face. These comprise of Gayatri and other Vedic mantras to the tune of two crores. 2. āmnāya mantras on South side (Dakṣiṇāmnāya) were obtained from the ‘Vāmadēva’ face. These comprise of one crore Śaiva Āgama mantras. 3. āmnāya mantras on West side (Paschimāmnāya) emerged from ‘aghōra’ face. These comprise of one crore Vaiṣṇava Āgama mantras. 4. āmnāya mantras on North side (Uttarāmnāya) came from ‘Tatpuruṣa’ face. These comprise of one crore Mahā Vidya and other mantras. 5. āmnāya mantras from the ‘Īśāna’ face facing top are the basis for Urdhva āmnāya mantras. These comprise many mantras expounding knowledge of the Self. Hence, altogether seven crore mantras emanated from Paramēśvara’s five faces. Scritpures such as ‘Śaivāgamā Tantrasārā Samgraham’ mention that meditation and repetition of the names bestows the merits of chanting all the mantras. Śiva’s Five-faced form is the quintessence of all mantras, embodiment of the entire universe and personification of all . (To be continued…)

Announcements

As stipulated in scriptures the ‘AnnuAl BrAhmotsAvAms’ of Sri Ganapati Mandir will be celebrated from Friday February 15, 2019 - Sunday February 17, 2019 by Mandir founders Smt. & Brahmasri Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma garu under the auspices of Ritviks.

For ease of availability and convenience to admirers of Rushipeetham all over the world, Rushipeetham started an online store for purchases of Rushipeetham books, publications and audios/videos of Brahmasri Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma garu pravachanams. Upon request, o Books and CDs will be mailed to any valid postal address in India. o Books and CDs can be download as PDF files and MP3 respectively. o For details please visit https://rushipeetham.com/rushipeetham-store/?v=7516fd43adaa

For ‘Aarshavani’ archives please visit https://rushipeetham.org/aarshavani-newsletters/

For Pravachanam CDs, ‘Rushipeetham’ Magazine subscription, other publications contact – Hyderabad Rajamahendravaram Visakhapatnam Tirupati Plot# 1-19-46, Sri Vallabha Ganapati Mr Rajasekhar Madhira Smt. Vanam Sasikala H.I.G. A -40 Mandiram, D.No:49-36-8, 18-12-1710, Dr. A S Rao Nagar Kontamuru, Flat No:402, Khadi Colony, Secunderabad Rajamahendravaram. Pingali paradise, NGO Tirupati. Ph: 7659927777 Telangana - 500062. Ph: 9246654619 Colony, Akkayyapalem, Ph: 040-27134557 Visakhapatnam-530016, 27132550 Ph: 9989991112, 7331115666 Please visit https://rushipeetham.org/subscription/ https://rushipeetham.com/ http://saamavedam.org/

A documentary film released on Sri Vallabha Ganapati Mandir, Konthamuru, Rajahendravaram. Please click below picture for the film.

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 12

Next Topic at Dhruva Jnanam

SRIMATA

SIVAPADAM (Śiva Saṅkīrtana Yajñaṁ)

Organized by Rushipeetham Charitable Trust

Composition & Elucidation by Samanvaya & Sivatattva Sudhanidhi Brahmasri Dr. Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma SingersSingers Sri. S P Bala Subrahmanyam & Smt. S P Sailaja Dr. SP Balasubrahmanyam SP Sailaja Date & Venue January 6, 2019 Convocation Hall

Team Andhra University Time Visakhapatnam 5:30 PM

For more details contact Madhira Rajasekhar- 9989991112

New Book Release RUSHIPEETHAM OFFICIAL ANOUNCEMENT

RUSHIPEETHAM RELEASED THE LATEST VERSION OF ANDROID AND APPLE APPS. PLEASE INSTALL. THOSE WHO PRAVACANA PĀṬHAṀ INSTALLED THE PREVIOUS VERSIONS OF APPLE AND

Amalgamating the many ANDROID APPS., PLEASE UNINSTALL AND INSTALL AGAIN occurrences of Lalitopakhyanam in THE LATEST VERSIONS AVAILABLE ON GOOGLE PLAY STORE AND APPLE ITUNES. Brahmanda Purana with prequel and sequel, pravachanam was ANDROID APPS done. Expounding those scenes RUSHIPEETHAM: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=rushipeetham.org narrating various forms of Divine Mother that manifested for SAMAVEDAM PRAVACHANAMS: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=rushipeetham.com vanquishing hordes of demons from both views of Tattva and IPHONE APPS , is the distinction of this RUSHIPEETHAM: book. Not just as a mere puranic https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/rushipeetham-charitable- trust/id1358622572?mt=8 story, but only those aspects depicting Divine Mother Lalita’s SAMAVEDAM PRAVACHANAMS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/samavedam- Tattva are included in this book. pravachanams/id1394544792?mt=8

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 13

v

News from Sri Vallabha Ganapati Mandir, Konthamuru, Rajamahendravaram

Sri Vallabha Ganapathi temple, Konthamuru Rajahmundry

Devotees interested in sending contributions to the temple -

BANK ACCOUNT NAME: MANDIR MAINTENANCE TRUST ACCOUNT Number: 62507680499; BANK NAME: STATE BANK OF INDIA; Name of the BRANCH: KONTHAMURU; IFS CODE NUMBER: SBIN0021806; MICR CODE: 533004108; Nature of Account: CURRENT ACCOUNT For details, please visit www.vallabhaganapathimandir.org

Interested donors contact: Email: [email protected] Contact details: Address: Sri Vallabha Ganapathi Trust, or Ph# 9949705166 / 9542122189 Near Kalyana Nagar Arch, Jangala Colony Road, Siva Kumar Layout, Konthamuru, Rajahmundry, Andhra For details, contact Sistu Sastry @ 9652815577 Pradesh – 533103 Darshan timings: Morning 6 am – 11 am; Evening 5 pm – 7 pm

PHOTO GALLERY

Pravachanams and Guru Satkaram at Nellore

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 14

Pravachanams and Guru Satkaram at Guntur

Pravachanams at Mumbai

EENADU NEWS LINK

‘Siva Padam’ dance performances at Vijayawada

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 15

New books release at ‘Siva Padam’ program Hyderabad

VIDEO LINK ‘Siva Padam’ Dance Performance at Hyderabad DISCLAIMER: This is not a SPAM. You have received this e-mail, because you have shown interest in the renaissance of Sanatana Dharma by Brahmasri Dr.Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma garu through spiritual discourses, temples renovation and construction, Sri Vallabha Ganapati temple Rajahmundry, ‘Go ’, charitable activities, yagas and Yajñas, promotion of fine arts such as ‘Siva Padam’ concerts and dance dramas etc., Please forward this e-mail only in UN-EDITED format. If you would like to be removed from the mailing list, please send an e-mail to [email protected] with title ‘UNSUBSCRIBE’. For more details, please visit http://saamavedam.org or http://rushipeetham.org

https://www.facebook.com/BramhasriSamavedamShanmukhaSarmaOfficialPage https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUuZr7RU7GTW7iN-vi5tLRg

To subscribe, please send an email to [email protected] ‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 16