Issue 5 Vol. 1, July 2016

Varanasi— A Most Ancient City

Understanding the Mystique of the

Vedic Society—Was the Caste System Discriminatory?

Shakuntala— The Progenitor of Bharat NOW HINDUISM NOW

Issue 5 - Volume 1 - July 2016

Owned, Created, Designed by: —July 2016 Contents Nithyananda University Press Message from the ...... 3 Published by: 01 July Vaishnava Yogini , Masik Karthigai, Jamat Ul-Vida From the Editor’s Desk...... 5 Nithyananda Peetham, Bengaluru Adheenam Kallugopahalli, Off Mysore Road, Bidadi 02 July Pradosh Vrat, Shani Trayodashi, Masik Shivaratri, Rohini Vrat Revelations on Yoga …...... 6 Ramanagaram - 562109 Phone: +91 80 2727 9999 04 July Ashadha , Darsha Amavasya, Somvati Amavas Main Feature Website: www.hinduismnow.org 05 July Darshan, Gupta Navratri Begins —A Most Ancient City...... 9 Editorial Reviewers 06 July Jagannath Rath Yatra Agarwal in the Life of Buddhists...... 12 Sri Nithya Medhananda Maharaj 08 July Vinayaka Unraveling the Mystique of the Aghoris...... 16 Editor Usha K Kent 09 July Skanda Sashti The Burning of Varanasi...... 20 11 July Ashtahnika Vidhan Begins Featured Writers Cleaning up the Ganga—Is it Necessary?...... 22 Stephen Knapp (Nandanandana Dasa) 12 July Masik Durgashtami Kashi Vishwanatha Temple and Kashi...... 26 Writers 15 July Devshayani Ekadashi, Gauri Vrat Begins *Gujarat Avinash Narrikkadan Kashi—A City Built with Devotion...... 27 Barbara Lippman 16 July Vasudeva Dwadashi, Karka Charuyan Srikumaran Special Feature Dr. Ma Devaroopananda 17 July Pradosh Vrat, Jayaparvati Vrat Begins Dr. Shubhamangala Acharya Varanasi—Major Sights for the Western Pilgrim...... 28 18 July Chaumasi Chaudas Ehan Kamat Krishnan Natarajan Other Columns Ma Nithya Kavyaroopini 19 July Kokila Vrat *Gujarat, Vyasa , Ashadha , , Ma Nithya Satyajnanananda Swami Jizyah—Taxing ...... 35 Gauri Vrat Ends *Gujarat, Purnima Upavas, Ashtahnika Vidhan Ends Ma Nithya Shaktiroopananda The Pandiyas— Ma Nithya Tripurananda 20 July Sawan Begins *North Prerna Dusija The Longest Lineage of Kings in History...... 36 22 July Jayaparvati Vrat Ends Sathish Selvakumar Shubhangi Deshpande The Roots of Vishishtadvaita...... 40 23 July Sankashti Chaturthi Sri Nithya Mitrananda Meerabai: Poetess Saint of the Bhakti Movement...... 42 Trisha Singh 25 July Shravan Somwar Vrat *North Usha K Kent Shakuntala: Progenitor of Bharat...... 44 Varsha Singh 26 July Mangala Gauri Vrat *North, Kalashtami Veena Nagaraj Was the Caste System Discriminatory?...... 46 29 July Rohini Vrat Designer Ma Nithya Gurupriya 30 July Kamika Ekadashi Panchakarma Kriyas for Glowing Health...... 48 Revealing the Revealed Yoga Scriptures of Yoga...... 50 Disclaimer 31 July Pradosh Vrat The techniques described herein is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis Reference Nithya Kriya Cure for Depression...... 52 or treatment. Individuals with any type of medical http://www.drikpanchang.com/festivals/month/festivals-july.html?year=2016 condition, the elderly, children below 14, women who Bhagavad Gita—Surrender to the Master...... 54 are pregnant or suspect they may be pregnant are advised to seek professional medical advice before Asteya is a Many Splendored Thing...... 56 practicing this technique. Viewers who are not on two- way video conferencing are cautioned that they are Guru Mantra—The Key to Liberation...... 58 practicing these techniques at their own risk.

Chanakya’s Neeti—Part IV...... 59 © 2016 Nithyananda University Press All rights reserved. No part of this publication may The Works of the Great Kalidasa...... 62 be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any form or by any means, electronic, Four Noble Truths of Buddhism...... 65 mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without written permission of the publisher. In the event that you use any of the information in this book Buddhist Stupas...... 68 for yourself, the author and the publisher assume no responsibility for our actions. Talakaveri: The of the South...... 70

Life is Bliss...... 72

1 Message from the Avatar

My Dear Ones,

It has been a month since I initiated participants at Shuddhadvaitam into not just powers but with seeds that can manifest into innumerable extraordinary powers. Already, I have seen reports of various powers such as telepathy, remote vision, aura reading, body scanning, mind reading etc being manifested by people across the world.

I would like to now give you the key to manifesting powers. Know that powers are a function of you feeling ‘oneness’ with the element or object or person you are connecting with. Oneness comes from expressing ‘friendliness’. Powers are never a function of you having power over them. That will only lead to arrogance which is not supported by the cosmos.

For example, if you would like to stop the wind, create a breeze etc., you need to have deep friendliness with Vayu (the wind god). If you think you can overpower him, once or twice he might allow it, but at an opportune moment he will not allow it and teach you a lesson. But, if you are established in friendliness with him, he will sit with you and talk to you. He will reveal more and more of himself to you. He will tell you that “See, my child is . He was such an active and naughty child, that he thought the Sun was a fruit and went to eat him. I had to intervene to protect the Sun”, and so on.

Understand, ‘friendliness’ is the key. That means that you have no resistance towards any of the expressions (gentle or fierce) of the element that you are working with.

My job as a Guru was to make your acquaintance with the elements. This is what I did when I initiated you into the powers in Ujjain. It is now up to you to sit with your new friends and know more and more about them. If you are lazy about it and not want to interact with them, you will only have a superficial relationship with them. But, when you take the time to get to know them deeply, they will reveal more and more of themselves to you. You will be in advaita with them. Then, they allow you to request what you want of them. That expresses as powers.

See, even when I awaken your during the process, I do not command the Kundalini. I address her with deep friendliness and call out to her in a sweet voice and tone “Pranapriye… . Wake up in every body here Ma.”

The import of Vedanta is ‘tat tvam asi’. I tell you, the import of Agama is ‘ tvam asi’. The Brahmanical traditions are way too mild and take a long time to bear a simple fruit. I am here to give you a rude awakening to your ultimate reality. Shaivaite tradition is like that.

We will re-establish Shuddhadvaitam. Enjoy the journey with Mahadeva.

He will be expressing in all His glory at His home in Varanasi during the June-July Inner Awakening. Do not miss being in His presence. Enjoy Him in His Achalamurthi and Sachalamurthi form at a place where He resides forever—Varanasi.

Be blissful! His Holiness Paramahamsa Nithyananda

HINDUISM NOW HINDUISM NOW 2 3 From the Editor’s Desk

After a month of high heat (literally and figuratively), storms, manifestations of mystical powers, humongous crowds and being in the enthralling vibrations of an avatar, returning to mundanity was in fact disquietening! Particularly because it was a challenge publishing the June issue, what with the virtual non-availability of can’t-do-without internet at Ujjain. My resolute decision to return home immediately after the Kumbh to ensure a timely release of the magazine misfired badly. Even as I rued over the missed opportunity to be with Paramahamsa Nithyananda at Omkareshwar while he playfully rollicked in the lap of river Narmada, Ma Nithya Gurupriya gracefully stepped in last minute, to take over designing the June issue. The result was a quick, smart, neat, and vibrant magazine, now available on the Hinduism Now website.

With another Inner Awakening scheduled in Varanasi, is it surprising that we decided to focus this issue on a city “older than legends and older than history itself.” Who better to give us an authentic insight into her sacred depths than the very living incarnation of He who established the city. Dr. Ma Devaroopananda summarizes for us never-before-known details about the city from the talks of Paramahamsa Nithyananda.

Writing for the first time forHinduism Now, 16-year old Ehan Kamat gives us a serious, incisive look into why cleaning ’s most sacred river Ganges is necessary for the ecology of India, for the spiritual life of the Hindus, and for millions of people for whom her 2,529 kilometers fertile banks is their lifeline. Continuing in the same vein are Trisha Singh with her interesting insights into the burning ghats of Varanasi and Veena Nagaraj’s fascinating details into the beyond-fear mystique of the Aghoris.

Following through on the Sangam Age in the lost continent of Kumari Kandam (June 2016 issue), Charuyan Srikumaran reveals to us the longest ruling dynasty of kings in history—the Tamil Pandiyas, whose lineage lasted more than 1500 years, at the very least!

We also meet two fascinating people who reflect the resilience, dignity and strength of the women of their times—the incredibly beautiful Shakuntala, the progenitor of Bharata-varsha, and the 15th century poetess saint Meera Bai, whose expressions of pure bhakti continues to fascinate dramatists and filmmakers in 21st century India. Sanskrit poet Kalidasa has fascinated writers, dramatists, academicians and the like, for generations. Shubhangi Deshpande takes us on a succinct journey of his works, giving us insights into the poetry and rhythm of his inner and outer worlds.

And finally, we journey into Buddhists stupas, Sarnath and Talakaveri—each of them intensely unique sacred places for Buddhists and Hindus.

The fascination to explore Hinduism is vast and limitless. We are happy to give you a glimpse of it each month. Enjoy the journey.

Nithyanandam.

Usha K Kent

HINDUISM NOW HINDUISM NOW 4 5 To support this, He announced a huge project to collect and release all the Agamas of Mahadeva— the original authentic sources—from the original palm leaves in a translated and usable form, on the internet to humanity. As a step towards this, he announced the release of the first set palm leaf digitization of books on Yoga and other topics by Mahadeva. He said more than 3 Terabytes of manuscripts had been collected so far and are being processed and more is being acquired, researched and published.

And the Final revelation that Paramahamsa Nithyananda made was that Yoga is not just the science of keeping you healthy; not just the ability to stretch your body. But, he said, it is the science of radiating enlightenment; the ability to manifest whatever you want. “It is not all about Revelations making you a better man, but about making you a superman. Yoga is a powerful alchemy system that gives result as soon as you start. It should give results on day one and by one month you on Yoga should be manifesting powers,” he said. Concluding his talk Paramahamsa Nithyananda that People Need to Know conducted a powerful Kundalini awakening process called the Trinetra Kumbhaka from the peaking on the occasion of International branch of knowledge. Yoga was promoted by yogapada of the Agamas for all the participants Day of Yoga on June 21, 2016 at the people who were more interested in digestion at Varanasi and those watching worldwide from Sholy city of Varanasi, Paramahamsa and adoption of Hinduism but not to promote more than 40 countries. Nithyananda revealed three powerful truths the original source. Patanjali is digestible while Reproduced from Hinduism Now Website about Yoga that he said people should know but Mahadeva cannot be digested,” he added. haven’t been told. The Second important truth Paramahamsa The First truth he revealed was that yoga did Nithyananda revealed was that vYoga cannot be not originate from Patanjali. With all respects developed. “You cannot develop on Sadashiva,” to Patanjali and his work, he said “Patanjali is he said. “Yoga is a complete science that had the organizer of Yoga but not the originator”. The taken into account all types of bodies past, originator, is Adi Guru Sadashiva! And that Yoga present and yet to come in the future. Altering originated at least 10 to 15 thousand years before Yoga is not development but dilution.” He urged Patanjali. In his complete works—the Agamas— everyone to always ask their teachers for the Sadashiva has presented a detailed, elaborate original source. He also added that Yoga cannot be manual with complete descriptions for Yoga. “I separated from Hinduism. The teacher’s personal have enough materials—linguistic, archaeological experience should align with the scriptural and so on—to substantiate the claims I am references. Otherwise it could be dangerous since making. Any decent unbiased researcher seeking the techniques which worked for the teacher may the truth will be convinced about what I am not work for all students. He urged the teachers of presenting,” he said. Yoga to ensure that their teachings are aligned to the original scriptures and then restart teaching. “Knowing the originator, the founding father, That, he said, is the best thing they could do to and his intentions is very important to learn any themselves and to the students in front of them.

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A Most Ancient City s i

DR. MA NITHYA DEVAROOPANANDA

Summary of Paramahamsa Nithyananda’s Talks

raditional etymology links “Varanasi” to the Mathura, Gaya, Kasi, Kanchi, Avantika, and names of two Ganges tributaries forming Dwaravati are the seven cities known as the Tthe city’s borders: Varuna, still flowing givers of Liberation. in northern Varanasi, and Assi, a small stream Paramahamsa Nithyananda elaborates on in the southern part of the city, near Assi . Varanasi from his enlightened insights, “This Throughout the ages, Varanasi has been known place was originally called Anandavana as by many names including Kasi or Kashi (used Mahadeva settled here. This is the first city by pilgrims dating from Buddha’s days), Kasika Mahadeva created for himself and His . The (“the shining one”), Avimukta (“never forsaken” city is older than legends itself, the city is older by Shiva), Anandavana (the forest of bliss), and than history itself.” Rudravasa (the place where Rudra/Siva resides).

Varanasi—A City Older than History Itself The Never Forsaken City Varanasi is called Avimuktakshetra—‘never In Rigveda, the city is referred to as Kasi or forsaken’. Even during the Pralaya (Great Kashi, the “luminous city as an eminent seat of Flood), Mahadeva holds the city at the tip of His learning.” The name Kasi is also mentioned in the trishul (trident), which is why this city is called Skanda Purana. In one verse, Shiva says, “The Urdhvaamnaya! Shankara divides the world in three worlds form one city of mine, and Kasi is four parts—southern part, northern part, eastern my royal palace therein.” The name Kashi may be part and western part, but says that Kasi is none translated as the “City of Light.” of these. Kashi is Urdhvaamnaya, in the upward It is regarded as one of seven holy cities which direction. can provide Moksha to a human being; Ayodhya, r a n Va

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don’t, you will find chaos, so much of chaos in Afghanistan, to Bali-Indonesia, every king had everything! If you go to the original Anandavana, their palace here. All the great Jagatgurus, there is no street which is more than three feet. Peethadeeshwars, Masters, had their ashram or Actually I was contemplating, why? I read some monastery here. This whole city is built not just history books. They are saying that the city was with mud, stone, wood, mortar; it is built with planned and built before even the bullock-cart our sacred sentiments! That is why, Ramakrishna was invented! But I was not ready to believe says, this city is a Golden City; because all our that. I consciously scanned the Akashic Records. sacred sentiments are filled and this city is built. Kaalabhairava revealed very clearly that now If I have to introduce this place, I have to whatever we are using as road is just drainage! introduce through Hinduism, Sanatana Hindu This city was created for the people who had Dharma. I have to introduce the whole science naturally the ability of flying! So, we never of enlightenment. Kashi itself is worshipped as bothered to create roads.” Kashyadevi, just like how in Tiruvannamalai, “Originally, when the city was planned, it was not the hill itself is worshipped as Arunanchala, planned for the people who were walking on the in Kailash Manas Sarovar itself is worshipped ground; it was planned for the rishis, gandharvas, as Devi, here the city itself is worshipped as kinnaras, kimpurushas, ganas, ganadhyas, who had Goddess Kashyadevi.” the powers of levitation and flying. So there never It’s the foremost among the Jeevanmukti kshetras was any need for roads. The buildings are just the where even now Mahadeva relaxes and enjoys places where they assumed the human body and his own inner space and glory, does ananda taught this science or learned this science—earned thandava, celebrates his own existence. Just like from the Masters taught to disciples!” how when you are in high mood you take a selfie The City of Celebration, Death and Liberation and put it on Facebook, same way Varanasi and “Varanasi was the oldest city, the oldest Kalabhairava are selfie of Mahadeva. university, oldest hospital, and oldest monastery, Varanasi, undisputedly the most ancient city, and what not! This is the place where all the The First Sarvjnapeetha Anandavana. Originally Mahadeva named the continues to be the spiritual capital of the spiritual freaks gathered from time immemorial. Mahadeva settled here when in the human form. place Anandavana. In all puja mantras, the place is country. From time immemorial, sadhus, nagas, siddhas, Here He established the firstSarvajnapeeta — addressed as Anandavana. Later on when Ganga Paramahamsas, gathered to celebrate life and References: seat of learning. From Mahadeva the knowledge came here to have darshan of Mahadeva, two 1. Varanasi—wikipedia, the free encyclopedia celebrate death! Here, life is liberation, death is was passed onto the Rishis, and then started streams, Varuna and Assi, appeared. The place 2. Inner awakening inauguration and celebration in celebration! Anandavana, 1st May 2014, https://youtube/tt3BiJQMSs0 the tradition of Narayana. Narayana was between the two streams was renamed Varanasi. 3. Kasi—Mahadeva’s Own City 30th April 2014, Satsang by Paramahamsa Nithyananda initiated here in the form of Kapila Maharshi, This city is built out of our scared sentiments. Mahadeva as Nithyananda lived here, became enlightened here and also That is why, every king of Bharat, from Gandhara- left his body when in Varanasi. He was the fifth Every city has a spiritual name and every deity incarnation of , and his is in has a spiritual name in Hindu tradition. Here, the Varanasi. From Narayana, Padmabhava, Vasishta, city’s spiritual name is Anandavana, and the deity , Parashara, Vyaasa, Shuka, Gaudapaada, is called Nithyananda. In the sankalpa mantra Govindapada, Shankarabhagavadpaada, all lived in the Kashi Vishwanatha temple, the priests here, and thus the sampradaya continued! This chant “Anandavane, Anandagandha madhye, is the place where life started, this is the place Nithyanandaya idam na mama.” “Idam nama” where science of living started, this is the place means “I don’t exist” and the statement means, where science of enlightenment was shared for “In the Anandavana, in the center of Ananda the first time on planet earth. gandha, Nithyananda is offered all these.”

All the aspects of enlightenment—yoga, hatha City for Flights! yoga, siddha yoga, tantra, aghora, natha, all the Paramahamsa Nithyananda says, “This city is great sampradayas, traditions of enlightenment, literally the Cosmos! If you understand, you started overflowing from Mahadeva in this very will find such a great order in the chaos. If you

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Sarnath in the Life of Buddhists

USHA K KENT

arnath is one of the most holy sites for Out in the World to Search the Truth Buddhists, as it is here that the stream of At the age of 29, Siddhartha left the palace along Sthe enlightened master Gautam Buddha’s with his charioteer Channa to meet his subjects and teachings first flowed. Sarnath is located about explore the world outside. For the first time he saw 12 kilometers from the city of Varanasi and is one suffering, old age and death, all of which depressed of four most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites, him greatly. He initially strove to overcome each of along with Lumbini-Nepal (Buddha’s birthplace), these by living the life of an ascetic or shramana, Bodh Gaya-Bihar (where he got Enlightenment), which was the dominating movement at the time in and Kushinagar-Uttar Pradesh (where Buddha left the regions of Eastern India. his body).1 During this stage of self-search Gautama Gautama Buddha, known simply as Buddha, was was joined by five companions—Kaundinya, an Enlightened Master whose teachings became Bashpa, Bhadrika, Mahanama, and Ashvajit. He the foundations of the faith called Buddhism. abandoned the palace life and became a roving Born a prince of the Shakya clan, astrological mendicant, begging for alms, practiced severe predictions indicated that he would either be austerities and denied food to his body, until he a great emperor (cakravartin) or a great sage. one day collapsed in a river from starvation. He Determined to ensure that his son would not take was rescued from near death and drowning by up a spiritual path and should succeed him to the a village woman named Sujata who offered him throne, his father King Suddhodana sheltered payasam (sweet porridge). him from the world outside the palace, giving him a life of royal sensuality, luxury and domestic bliss. But all this did not appeal to Gautama.

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Becoming Buddha—Abandoned by fun of his well-nourished appearance. When they 15.24 meters in height which had four lions as its Relics and Legends of Sarnath Companions reminded him of his former vows, the Buddha capital which is now treasured in the archaeology In ancient Buddhist literature the place finds As he recuperated and got back his energy, replied, “Austerities only confuse the mind. In the museum and is also the emblem of the Republic mention as Rishipatna and Mrigdava or Gautama began to reconsider his path. He was exhaustion and mental stupor to which they lead, of India. The lions symbolized both Ashoka’s Mrigadaya. The place was called Rishi Patna, as it seated under a peepal tree, now called the one can no longer understand the ordinary things imperial rule and the kingship of the Buddha. was here that the bodies of five hundred Pratyeka Bodhi tree, and vowed he would not budge from of life, still less the Truth that lies beyond the Buddhas or rishis (sages) fell after their attainment Sarnath—A Flourishing Center of Buddhism that place until he had found the Truth. His five senses. I have given up extremes of either luxury of Nirvana (Salvation). 2 Buddhism flourished in Sarnath in part because of companions became disillusioned, felt he had or asceticism. I have discovered the Middle Way”. the support of kings and wealthy merchants based According to the Jataka Tales, in one of his abandoned his search, and left him. Turning of the Wheel of Dharma—First in nearby Varanasi. By the 3rd century Sarnath had previous births, Buddha as a leader of a herd Gautama remembered a moment in childhood Sangha become an important center for the arts, which of deer, appeared before the king of Benaras in which he had been watching his father Hearing this, the five ascetics became the reached its zenith during the Gupta period (4th-6th (Varanasi) to save the life of a doe. The king, who start the season’s ploughing. He attained a Buddha’s first disciples. Buddha taught them century CE). When Huan Tsang visited from China relished on the flesh of a deer everyday, was concentrated and focused state that was blissful what he had learned, and they also became in the 7th century, he found 30 monasteries and moved by his sacrificial zeal and made the place and refreshing, called dhyana. It dawned on him enlightened. This event is referred to as “the 3,000 monks living at Sarnath. Sarnath became a free roaming ground, which came to be known that this meditativeness was the right path to turning of the wheel of the Dharma” and also a major center of the Sammatiya school of as Mrigadaya (deer park). The inscriptions of early awakening and not the one of extreme asceticism marks the founding of the Sangha, or the Buddhism, one of the Nikaya or Hinayana schools. medieval period found from Sarnath referred to The presence of images of Heruka and Tara indicate this place as Dharmachakra or Sadhamacharka that Vajrayana Buddhism was also practiced here. Pravartana Vihar.

A Debris Until the 19th Century CE There is also a Bodhi tree planted by Anagarika th In 1194 CE, Qutubuddin Aibak, the Islamic-Turkish Dharmapala (a early 20 century Sri Lankan conqueror and army general of the Delhi Sultanate Buddhist revivalist and writer), grown from ruler Iltutmish, leveled the city to the ground. a cutting of the Bodhi tree at Bodh Gaya. Six Sarnath became a forest of debris below which the national temples have been built by various historical ruins remained buried. That is until British Asian communities at Sarnath since the site’s archaeologist Colonel Cunningham re-discovered restoration. it in 1836. From then on a series of excavation and Another important remains at Sarnath is the restoration work were carried out here. Mulagandhakuti Vihara, which marks the place The most important structure at Sarnath is where the Buddha spent his first rainy season th the Dhameka Stupa. The original stupa was in meditation which is also described by the 7 constructed by Ashoka. Colonel Cunningham century CE Chinese traveler Huen Tsang. he had practiced till then. Buddhists refer to this community of monks. Gautama Buddha taught discovered a stone tablet on which an inscription Sarnath is also sacred to the Jains because they as the Middle Way—a path of moderation, away not to debate but to speak for the advantage of was written with the word Dhamekha, and look upon it as the site of asceticism and death of from the extremes of self-indulgence and self- and out of compassion for human beings. He mentions that this is the spot where the Buddha Shreyamshanath, the 11th Tirthankara. The modern mortification. After about 49 days of meditation, explained the middle way which avoids extremes, delivered his first sermon. Dhamekha seems to be name Sarnath seems to be a contraction of at the age of 35, he attained enlightenment and called the Four Noble Truths, and prescribed the a distorted form of Dharma Chakra or Turning the Saranganath (Lord of Deer) still borne by the Lord became known as The Buddha or “The Awakened Eightfold Path. (For details, read articles under Wheel of the Dharma. This is the spot where the Shiva enshrined in a temple nearby! One” or “The Enlightened One”. column head Offshoots of Hinduism) Buddha’s five companions who became the first Sangha lived in huts. References Mocking Companions at the First Sermon Buddha’s first discourse, delivered 1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhist_pilgrimage here at Sarnath, is known in Pali as the 2. http://www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/buddhistworld/sarnath. After attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, Many dignitaries of Buddhist countries visit this htm the Buddha went to Sarnath. It was here that he Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta. Other Suttas place for circumambulation of this sacred stupa 3. http://www.sacred-destinations.com/india/sarnath preached his first discourse in a deer park to set include the Anattalakhana Sutta and the Sacca 4. http://varanasi.nic.in/history/ams1.html and to worship the Buddha. The first discourse of 5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anagarika_Dharmapala in motion the ‘Wheel of the Dharma’. Vibhanga Sutta. the Buddha was on the ‘Wheel of Law’. The wheel symbolizes samsara (world), the eternal circle While in Sarnath, the Buddha encountered the Emperor Ashoka Monumentalizes Buddha of existence which goes on and on, life after life five men who had been his companions of earlier A monastic tradition flourished for over 1,500 because of ceaseless cravings and desire. austerities. On meeting the enlightened Buddha, years on the site of the deer park at Sarnath. In all they saw was an ordinary man; they made the third century BCE Ashoka erected a column

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Unraveling the Mystique

he land of Varanasi, the most ancient of creation), Vishnu (God of preservation) and holy city of India has been the ultimate Shiva (God of rejuvenation and transformation) in Behind the pilgrimage spot for the Hindus. Situated on a single human form. The first Aghoreshwaracharya T th th the banks of the sacred river Ganga it has been was Bhairavacharya of 5 - 6 century. Later his a centre for Hindu Renaissance. For thousands lineage was revived by the great mystical of years it’s been home for flourishing culture, saint Kinaram Baba in the 16th century. knowledge, philosophy, religions, Sanskrit, languages, yoga, Indian philosophy, spiritualism, Aghoreshwaracharya Kinaram Baba mysticism belonging to different ancient sects of The period before Aghoreshwaracharya Kinaram aghoris Hinduism, Indian arts and craft. It has produced Baba is completely shrouded in mystery. There are great mystical saints and personalities. One such no texts or chronicles. The Aghoris did not have ancient mystical sect of Hinduism existing in residences as they wandered in forests, mountains VEENA NAGARAJ Varanasi are the Aghoris. and lived in cremation grounds and visited sacred places. Aghoracharya Kinaram Baba revived the Fearless, Dreadless Monks ancient tradition of Aghoris in the 16th century. He The Aghoris are an ancient mystical sect of was an incarnation of Lord Shiva Himself. He was Hinduism and are Monists (monks). They are born at Ramgarh in Chandauli district of Varanasi. Shaivites (worshippers of Lord Shiva). A + ghor= Aghor means absence of fear, dread, difficulty. A Wandering Monk Aghor is a state that can be achieved through the As a young Baba he wandered throughout the practices of discipline known as Aghor Sadhana. country. One of the places he went to is the It is a state beyond waking, dream and deep Girnar mountain, a holy place in Gujarat and sleep. The person who is instructed and initiated performed tapasya (penance) for some time. into this practice is called an Aghor, Aghori or an There he was initiated by Lord Dattatreya. From Aughar (au+ghar= aghar, means other house). there he left for Mata Hinglaj Devi’s Shakthi Peetha in Baluchistan (now Pakistan). Mata Origin of Aghoris Hinglaj Devi is the goddess of the Aghoris. Baba The origin of Aghoris is as old as Hinduism itself. performed penance there for some time, received Their lineage originates from Avadhuta Siddhas of her blessings and left for the Himalayas. Varanasi which in turn originated from Lord Shiva Himself. Lord Dattatreya is the patron and the ideal Ashram at Varanasi Master of the Aghoris and Aghori tradition. He is After practicing for some time in the Himalayas the Adiguru of Aghori tradition. Lord Dattatreya is he came to Varanasi. Finally on the bank of the an incarnation of all the three gods, Bramha (God river Ganges in Varanasi as per the guidance of Hinglaj Mata Devi he established his Dhuni (the

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sacred fire) and continued to serve humanity by Baba Kinaram’s Flying Cot: starting a mutt (monastery). He lived for a very In the article on Varanasi—A Most Ancient City, long time, about 150 years! we have observed how Varanasi with its three feet narrow streets was so because they were The Legacies of Kinaram Baba not made for walking. The streets were meant for The Akhand Dhuni of Kinaram Baba and the highly evolved souls and other worldly beings— of all the siddhas of Aghori lineage in the it was planned for rishis, gandharvas, kinnaras, place called Krimkund are a witness to the lineage kimpurushas, ganas, ganadhyas, who had the of avadhuta siddhas (mystical saints). There is also powers of levitation and flying. Baba Kinaram a record of history of siddhas who headed this was a living proof of this in the 16th century. Aghor mutt after Baba Kinaram at Krimkund. Preserved at his ashram is a cot on which Baba The traditions of the Aghoris survived, were Kinaram sat, slept, moved, flew about! The cot absorbed by and flourished in Varanasi due to the moved by simply his order and his elevated extraordinary deeds of Baba Kinaram. Baba was pure siddha energy. During the July 2015 Inner famous for his fights with Rajas and Nawabs of Awakening program Paramahamsa Nithyananda According to Paramahamsa Nithyananda, due to regularly to allow the highest level of Aghoratva those times. He fought in favour of sadhus and shared how, when in a deep state of samadhi the immense siddhis, penance and fearlessness (enlightenment) in them. The part of their ritual poor people. He revived the Aghori tradition and that morning, he was visited by Baba Kinaram the Aghoris gain over their years of practice of requires a minimum of one eating putrid human promoted dialogue among main Hindu currents swooshing in on his flying cot, to seek his blessings! living Aghoratva, they radiate it from every fibre flesh and also meditating on a dead corpse. This and other religions existent during his time. of their being. Therefore, when Kinaram Baba is a symbol of rising from shava to Shiva. What Happened to Kinaram Baba’s Body? attained samadhi, his followers ate the flesh of The only original Aghori literary works are those As the Aghori advances in his practices he attains In modern times the members of this mystical sect the body so that no part of him would go wasted left by Kinaram Baba. Baba has mentioned many siddhis (powers). They start manifesting can be found mostly alongside of river Ganga in and they themselves could imbibe some of his the principles of Aghor in his books Viveksar, powers like altering the environment. But they Varanasi where their most sacred temple is found. powers. The only part of the body that remained Ramgita, Ramsal and Unmuniram. The book don’t use these powers for any vested interests The holiest temple of Aghoris holds the remains of is the skull, and this is preserved in his Samadhi called Viveksar is said to be the most authentic because the basic rule of the Aghori is to deny Kinaram Baba—or more precisely, his skull! at his ashram in Varanasi. treatise on the principles of Aghor. human pleasure. For example, change in climate The Aghoris’ Universe—Abhorred and Awed is an event that should happen on its own and by Society not be manipulated by anyone. The Aghoris believe that the universe is Though Aghoris are feared and opposed by non-dualistic. For them all opposites are some segments of population in their own home indistinguishable from one another. Everything land, yet there are others who revere them for is a manifestation of God. To deny anything is their amazing healing powers. They do not inflict to deny the Supreme Being. The true Aghori is a violence on others to further their religious human symbol of Lord Shiva himself. practices and are highly non violent by nature. According to Aghoris every human is a shava This is the true nature of an Aghori. One who has (dead body) with emotions and has to rise to the gone beyond fear cannot carry any violence in his state of Shiva or Aghor. Some of their practices inner space. The human society would benefit a are terrifying to the common man. The Aghoris lot from revering these beings for their high level overcome this terror by going through these of courage, simplicity and authenticity towards practices. All their practices are centred around the their spiritual path, rather than merely tolerating removal of bonds of sense pleasures, fear, greed, them as an ostracised part of the society. anger, possession, hatred, shame and obsessions. References 1. http/www.aghoreshwar.org Most of the Aghoris roam around with a loin 2. http/www.facebook.com 3. http/www.unexplained-mysteries cloth or naked. They wear jewels made of bones. 4. http/www.findeen.co.uk They carry a kapala (human skull) as their 5. http/troolyunbelievable.blogspot.com 6. http/www.varanasi.org.in/varanasi-history begging bowl. They live in cremation grounds. 7. Satsang of Paramahamsa Nithyananda, July 4, 2015 during They follow the simple rule that the universe Inner Awakening Program 8. Aughar Ramkina Katha resides in them. They perform rites and rituals

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this boon, Lord Vishnu digs a well (Manikarnika Hindu Cremation Process at the Burning The Burning Ghats of Kund) for Lord Shiva and to bathe in, when Ghats they visit Varanasi. At this time, Devi Parvati’s Once the payment is received, the following is earring fall into the well. The is observed: TRISHA SINGH Varanasi celebrated as a Shakti Peetha, a sacred place of • The body is doused in Ganga water before worship for all who revere Devi. cremation. • Bodies of elderly men who have lived a good Making of a Raja-rishi and Emergence of the life are wrapped in a gold shroud. Women who Dom Raja he ancient city of Varanasi is where The Legends behind Manikarnika die before their husbands are wrapped in red. The ghat, the other cremation thousands upon thousands go every year to There are several incidents that mark the Men are wrapped in white. ghat at Varanasi, earns its name from Raja have darshan of Kashi Vishwanatha, and to significance of these ghats. It is known that Sati, • Five members of the deceased’s family stand T Harishchandra, a famous king mentioned in the liberate their deceased loved ones from the cycle an incarnation of Devi, set herself ablaze after around the pyre Markandeya Purana. In order to pay Dakshina, a of birth and death. To be liberated from this body her father tried to humiliate Lord Shiva. After • The men circle the pyre five times for each donation, to the sage Vishwamitra, Harishchandra in the holy city of Kashi is the surest way to be free this, Lord Shiva out of immense grief, carries element: fire, water, air, earth and ether. Then, gave his kingdom and all his possessions to of the karmic cycle of birth and death. her body around the whole cosmos. At this time, they circle it in the opposite direction, as in the sage. When this was insufficient, the king parts of her ended up scattered in many places, death, everything is reversed. finally sold himself to the sage. Vishwamitra Keeper of the Sacred Fire—The Dom Raja one of which was Manikarnika Ghat. Her earrings • Their pyres are set with coconuts and other then sold Harishchandra to a Chandala, who Picture this: fires rising high into the night on fell at the ghat. On finding this, a Brahmin offering by the Pujaris and set ablaze. worked at the cremation ghats in Varanasi. There, the ancient banks of river Ganga, as several men man decided to keep it to himself. Lord Shiva Harishchandra worked hard and paid his earnings According to the Doms who work there, a body hustle around the various pyres strewn on the discovered this and cursed the man and decreed to Vishwamitra. During his time there, he realised can take anywhere between two to twelve hours ghat. These are the Doms, an ancient caste that that his family be brought down to the lowest of that all his suffering was due to his sins in a past to burn completely, depending on the karma of handle the cremation process at Harishchandra the untouchables—a Dom. The man pleaded for life. Soon, Harishchandra’s wife arrived there the individual. and Manikarnika ghats in Varanasi. Of them, mercy, but Lord Shiva could not recant his curse. with their dead son, who was bitten by a snake. the Dom Raja is the keeper of the sacred fire Nonetheless, he gifted the ghat to the man’s The ‘chief mourner’, generally the eldest son of However, even upon seeing this, Harishchandra at Manikarnika ghat, a fire that has not been family and gave him a sacred fire, cremation by the family, then approaches the pyre and splits insisted that she would have to pay the funeral extinguished for centuries. Not a single match is which would give Mukti or liberation to all. This is open the skull of the body. This is the moment fees in order to have him cremated. Seeing his lit to light the pyres; this sacred fire is the source the fire that remains burning to this day. that the soul is officially freed from the body and honesty, all the deities along with Vishwamitra, of all fires at the ghats. These cremation ghats can attain liberation. run 24/7, burning hundreds of bodies every day in Another legend says that Lord Shiva granted a appeared before him and told him that he would plain sight. boon to Lord Vishnu that when he destroys the be able to ascend into heaven, and that he had The unburnt portion of the bodies are immersed world, he will not destroy Varanasi. To celebrate passed the tests that Vishwamitra had put him into Ganga, as a final act of purification. through. Harishchandra was thus the only king to have a place among gods, a raja-rishi. To thank Exceptions in Cremation at the Ghats the Chandala who employed him, he named him Children below the age of five, pregnant women, Dom Raja. The Dom Raja would henceforth be the Sadhus and Sanyasis, those bitten by a cobra keeper of the ancient fire at the ghats, as would or that died of smallpox and lepers cannot be all his sons for centuries to come. burnt at the ghat. They are directly immersed in Ganga. The first three of this category are already Dom Raja—the Yamdut on Earth considered pure; they do not need fire to purify The Dom Raja is known as Yamdoot on earth, the them. Those with smallpox or bitten by a cobra are one who is responsible for setting free the dead. said to release toxins into the air upon burning, The Harishchandra Ghat and Manikarnika Ghats in and so directly immersed. Lepers are already Varanasi are the sacred places where Lord Shiva retained with god and so do not need burning. himself appears to liberate the souls cremated there. The Dom Raja is the supplier of the holy In sum, the burning ghats of Varanasi are the flame that has remained unextinguished for ultimate place for all Hindus to reach in order to centuries. According to the customs of the Doms, be liberated from the repeated cycle of birth and everybody must pay something to cremate their death. And in it, the Dom Raja, although a chandala, dead, but only as much as they wish to. has the most important role in society, to enable the dead to make the journey into liberation.

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Brief Facts about the Ganga Cleaning up the riginating in the Himalayas, the Ganga winds from Rishikesh through Haridwar, then East to OBangladesh until it empties into the Bay of Bengal some 2,529 Kilometers (1,569 miles) later.

A little over one third of India’s population relies on her for drinking water or irrigation. In essence, 10% of the world’s population relies for sustainability of the Ganga. Equally importantly, Hindus believe in the holy living spirit of the Ganga Ganga as a purifier of sins. The holiest of Hindu rivers—The Ganga (Ganges) has been Is it Necessary? the recent recipient of much discussion in India. Successive governments have had plans to clean up the Ganga. ’s election campaign was partly built on the same platform. EHAN KAMAT “Ma Ganga has called me,” he told the crowd at his victory celebration, when he swept to power in a landslide victory two years ago. “She has decided some responsibilities for me. Ma Ganga is screaming for help, she is saying I hope one of my sons gets me out of this filth. It is possible it has been decided by God for me to serve Ma Ganga.”1

In 2014, his government announced the allocation of Rs. 2,037 Crore or $334 Million, on a project named “Namami Ganga”, an Integrated Ganges Development Project, and cleaning of the Ganga under this plan is clearly visible at Varanasi at least.2

Polluting the Holiest of Rivers The Ganga suffers from three main offenders regarding its pollution: sewage, industrial waste and human and animal corpses. Much has been written about the lethal fecal coliform counts of the Ganga. As she exits in Varanasi (Benares), the count is reportedly between 1-2 million/ppm, which is deemed toxic for drinking, bathing, and irrigation.3

Sewage from the fifty odd cities that line the Ganga are said to be responsible for an average of raw sewage. It is assumed that 32,000 human corpses are cremated in Varanasi yearly releasing 300 tons into the Ganga.

Industrial complexes such as tanneries and pulp/paper mills generate wastewater as well. More than 760 polluting industries reside on the banks of the Ganga, mostly in Uttar Pradesh. Industries include tanneries, paper and pulp industries, sugar mills, dyeing factories, distilleries, and cement plants. Despite these regulations enforcement has been lacking.4

Adding to the pollution issue is the concomitant decrease in water flow that does not allow her to satisfactorily dilute

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the pollutants. Dutt Tripathi, professor of of her people, round which are intertwined her environmental engineering at the Banaras Hindu racial memories, her hopes and fears, her songs University and an expert member of the National of triumph, her victories and her defeats. She has Ganges River Basin Authority (NGRBA) states been a symbol of India’s age-long culture and that increasing water flow can be done by de- civilization, ever-changing, ever-flowing, and yet siltation, removing all mid-stream constructions, ever the same Ganga.”8 and halting construction activity along the river’s Politicians have campaigned, and even won banks.5 elections, speaking on her behalf. History of Ganges Clean up Attempts— Consensus among experts both scientific and Repeating History? spiritual is that the Ganga needs the loving Failed attempts in the past have dotted the history attention of her children at this critical juncture. of the Ganga. In 1985, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi A multipronged approach must be taken. set up a $226 million Ganges Action Plan. Later, • Hindu pilgrims must be re-educated in India’s courts ordered the closure of tanneries disposing of plastic, refuse and non- polluting the river’s waters. In 2009, Mission Clean biodegradables. Ganges was announced and the NGRBA headed • Industrial plants such as tanneries and paper by Prime Minister Singh was created focusing on mills must be held accountable for their the Ganges river basin. Critical to these plans was atrocities on her banks or be shut down with sewage treatment plans which, though built, were power and authority. subject to damaging power shortages. • Reliable, efficient and power stingy sewage An op-ed by Sunita Narain, director-general of the treatment plants must not only be built but by Delhi based Centre for Science and Environment operational. says, “A comprehensive solution to the Ganges • Cremation facilities must be updated to reflect pollution lies in dealing with three problem areas: the new spirit of a cleaned Ganga. one, finding water to dilute and assimilate waste; The vitality of the Ganga and her power to two, finding innovative ways to check the growing sustain are reflected in the continued existence of the SENTINAL of Varanasi amount of untreated sewage discharged into the the Ganges River Dolphin. Despite the stretches river; and three, fixing the enforcement to stop of severely polluted river, the dolphin population 6 industries from discharging waste into the river.” is estimated at some 2,000. This rare breed, Prime Minister Modi’s latest call through a press like the Ganga itself, sustains itself despite the kalabhairava release was: specific action plans to unite the difficult circumstances that surround it. strength of various sections of society dedicated to With optimism, India, the world’s most rapidly “Ganga Seva.” He called for “teams of volunteers growing economy, hopes to realize a change in from various parts of the country could be involved culture, industry and human waste to effect a in generating public awareness and perform Ganga lasting reversal to its waning mother river—Ma 7 seva by maintaining specific stretches of the river”. Ganga. A Multipronged Approach References: 1. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/resources/idt-aad46fca-734a- The Ganga has shown her fortitude through 45f9-8721-61404cc12a39 thousands of years of Indian history. She has 2. http://thediplomat.com/2014/09/cleaning-up-the-ganges/ 3. Eck, Diana L. (1982), Banaras, city of light, Columbia Univer- physically, financially and spiritually sustained a sity Press, ISBN 978-0-231-11447-9, retrieved 26 July 2011 good portion of the population of India and continues 4. http://www.sankatmochanfoundationonline.org/Pollutionof- to do so without expectation. For these qualities she Ganga.html 5. http://thediplomat.com/2014/09/cleaning-up-the-ganges/ is known as Ma Ganga or Mother Ganges. 6. http://www.business-standard.com/article/opinion/sunita- narain-the-ganga-needs-water-not-money-114012600751_1. Jawaharlal Nehru, requested that a handful of his html 7. http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=109467 ashes to be thrown into the Ganga. “The Ganga,” 8. http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/simply-put-aims- he wrote in his will, “is the river of India, beloved and-hurdles-of-cleaning-the-ganga/

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Kashi Vishwanath temple Varanasi Kashi There is a small well in the temple called the Jnana A City Built With Devotion Vapi (the wisdom well). The main priests of the temple

jumped into the well with the Shiva linga in order Reproduced from Nithyananda Times, April-May 2014

to protect the Jyotirlinga from the invaders, and ashi or Varanasi started seeing a decline orders, the Krittivasevara temple was destroyed remained in jala samadhi. in its glory during the Muslim invasions and in its place a large mosque was erected. He Kstarting from the 12th century for the also simultaneously undid the goodwill earned next 500 years. Being a city of great antiquity, during the reign of Akbar by giving orders to where deity worship was the regular tradition destroy the Hindu temples. Reproduced from Nithyananda Times, April-May 2014 and where Buddhism and Jainism also thrived The Muslim rulers managed to destroy several alongside Hinduism, Kashi represented n the heart of the city, the center of the cosmic The temple town that is the oldest living city Hindu temples in Varanasi, but they could not everything the Muslim rulers wanted to destroy. mandala, is the . in the world, with 3,500 years of documented destroy the spirit and the religious fervor of the IVaranasi is one of the holiest places and history, is also called Kashi and hence the temple The troubles of Varanasi began in 1194 with the city. They could not tarnish the sanctity of the city the center of earth in Hindu cosmology. It is an is popularly known as the Kashi Vishwanath founding of the Delhi Sultanate under Qutub-ud- of Kashi, which was not built of stone and brick, important pilgrimage site where people pour the Temple. Due to its 15.5m high golden spire, the din Aibak. He destroyed nearly a thousand temples but rather with the devotion of people. Varanasi remains (ashes) of cremated ancestors on the temple is also called the Golden Temple. and erected several mosques on top of them. He continued to thrive as a city of Hindu learning River Ganges, for liberation of their souls. The temple complex consists of a series of plundered the temples and carried away about and an important center of Hindu pilgrimage The temple stands on the western bank of the smaller shrines, located in a small lane called 1,400 camel loads of gold, silver and precious even during the trying times. stones. The sacking broke the economic status of holy river Ganges, and enshrines one of the the “Vishwanatha Gali”, near the River Ganga. In the midst of these repeated invasions, the city and ruined its temple traditions but did not twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Shiva, making it one The main deity at the shrine is the Shiva linga, Goswami Tulasidas, a great devotee of Lord dampen its religious spirit. Many temples were of the holiest of Shiva temples. The Jyotirlingas which is 60 cm tall and 90 cm in circumference, Rama and a resident of Varanasi composed the rebuilt and the city got back to its routine. are sacred sites of worship of Lord Shiva where housed in a silver altar. There are temples for “Ramacharitamanas”, a monumental rendering of Lord Shiva appeared as a shaft of light and where Kalabhairava, Dhandapani, Avimukteshwara, In 1490, Sikanander Lodi, another ruler of the the epic Ramayana into . Narayan Bhatt who Lord Shiva’s divine presence is alive eternally. Vishnu, Vinayaka, Shanishwara, Virupaksha and Delhi Sultanate, ordered his generals to destroy migrated from Maharashtra to Varanasi organized The main deity of the temple is known by the Virupaksh Gauri in the complex. There is a small all the temples in Varanasi and build mosques the reconstruction of Kashi Vishveshwara temple. name of “Vishwanatha” or “Vishweshwara”, well in the temple called the Jnana Vapi (the over them. His orders were promptly carried out He also composed a work on the importance of meaning the ruler of the universe. wisdom well). and the city was renamed as “Mohammadabad”. Kasi, Prayag and Gaya entitled “Tristhali” (the three places) . Historical accounts say that upon invasion by The early Mughal rulers indulged in religious nd the Moghul king Aurangzeb on 2 September, and destruction of Hindu temples. After Aurangzeb, Varanasi came under the rule of 1669, the main priests of the temple jumped into Akbar set a new example by initiating a policy Maharaja Balwant Singh. As the Mughal power the well with the Shiva linga in order to protect of religious tolerance. He allowed Hindus to ebbed, there was a resurgence of Hindu rulers in the Jyotirlinga from the invaders and remained practise their religion and build temples without various parts of the country. Varanasi witnessed in jala samadhi. When the Jyotirlinga was fear of punishment. During his reign, Varanasi a revival of religious activity, supported by the discovered again after centuries, even the lamp witnessed the construction of the Visvesvara Rajput and Maratha nobles. Many new temples was burning at the altar and the flowers were temple and Bindu Madhava temple. Aurangzeb, were built in the place of the old and Hinduism fresh! his successor, however reversed the policy received a new impetus. Reference Link: of Akbar with an aim to establish Islam in the Reference: http://nithyanandatimes.org/nithyananda-times-april- subcontinent. The empire was thrown into 1. http://www.hinduwebsite.com/hinduism/cokasi.asp may-2014/ political and religious turmoil because of his Article Link 2. http://nithyanandatimes.org/nithyananda-times-april- extreme measures. In 1659, under his direct may-2014/ HINDUISM NOW HINDUISM NOW 26 27 Therefore, Varanasi (the city between the Varana of town before the Muslims invaded and tore it and Asi Rivers) has always been a center for down. This new temple has a large central room pilgrimage. More legends of Varanasi could be for a Shiva that is attended by a priest. explained, but there are so many that they easily There are also two shrines in separate rooms, could fill an entire volume. We will relate only a one for Parvati and Ganesh, and the other for a few here. five-faced Shivalingam , Mahadeva. It is a very interesting temple and is easily reached. And the A Place from Another Realm BHU is like a spacious park that is pleasant to You can find temples dedicated to any personality walk or drive through. of the Vedic pantheon in this city. Thus, they still Varanasi say that all the gods reside here. And it is said Sankat Mochan A GUIDE TO MAJOR SIGHTS that all of the holy places of India can be found From here move on to the Sankat Mochan on the in certain portions of the town. Mathura is found south side of town, one of the most important FOR THE WESTERN PILGRIM in one part of the town, Ayodhya in another, as Hanuman temples in the city. The architecture of well as Badrinatha, Dwaraka, and so on. In fact, this temple is not very elaborate, but it is a lively some of the ancient texts say that Varanasi is not place and many people visit and offer respects of this earth, but is a holy place and part of the to the deities of Sita-Rama, Hanuman, Ganesh, spiritual realm. Therefore, dying in this city brings etc. This is not far from Kund Road where, liberation from future material existence. So heading farther north, one can walk to the Tulsi there is a strong atmosphere of devotion here as Manas Mandir; a large temple that has beautiful many pilgrims come from all over to spend their Sita-Rama deities and the complete Ram Charit last days living in this city, bathing in the sacred Manas by written on the inside walls. Ganges, visiting temples, and having darshan of This is the temple where Tulsidas wrote this work. STEPHEN KNAPP (NANDANANDANA DASA) the deities, all for spiritual purification. Durga Temple Rickshaw Your Way Around! About a block or two farther down the road is Varanasi—A Many Splendored City Not Always Shiva’s City! The best way to get to know Varanasi is to take a the Durga temple beside the Durga Kund. Many aranasi is a city of many legends and Varanasi is often referred to as the city of Shiva, little tour of the important temples near the river pilgrims go to this temple, which is commonly numerous temples. Tourists and pilgrims but it was not always Shiva’s city. The Kashi ghats. The easiest way to find them is to have called the Monkey temple because of the many Vfrom around the world come here to see Khanda, a text that explains some of the glories your motor or cycle rickshaw driver take you. But monkeys here. Open to all, this temple houses a the culture, the ghats along the Ganges River, of Varanasi (or Kashi, “the city of light”), explains some of the temples in the old section of town small deity of goddess Durga in the center of the and to experience various aspects of the living that at one time many, many years ago, all the can only be reached by foot because the lanes courtyard, which becomes most crowded during religion which has gone on for thousands of years. gods lived here. However, the rule of the city was are too narrow even for cycle rickshaws. The real the festival. Varanasi is known for its silver, copper, brassware, given over to King Divodasa who made all the adventure of finding these temples is not only and art work, as well as the excellent textiles, such demigods leave. After a while Lord Shiva wanted seeing what they are like, but simply wandering Asi Ghat as carpets, saris, and especially silks that are made to come back, but everything he tried in order around the town to experience the place and From here we take the road that leads toward the here. The in the Banaras Hindu to return failed. Finally he asked Lord Vishnu to observe how the people live. The tour will take Ganges until you reach Asi Ghat, where the small University (BHU) and an old palace at Ramnagar help him. So Lord Vishnu went to Varanasi and you to some delightful places. Asi River joins the Ganges. Leave your rickshaw showcase some of these crafts. first arrived at the confluence of the Varana and behind and simply walk along the ghats. The Asi Ganges Rivers where He bathed. Now there is New Vishwanath Temple—BHU Ghat is busy in the morning with bathers, women Varanasi has been a center for learning and the Adi Keshava (“original Keshava” or Vishnu) We start our tour by getting to the New collecting water for worship and washing, and spiritual pilgrimages for thousands of years temple at that location to commemorate the Vishwanatha temple in the BHU at the southern others worshiping the Hanuman deity and the and still attracts many students and scholars on incident, which is now an important tirtha or holy end of the city. This was established by the Shiva under the nearby pipal tree. Some religion, philosophy, and music, and has some place. Sri Vishnu then made His way into the Birla family, thus anyone is welcome. This is the men will be practicing yoga, sitting in meditation, of the world’s best astrologers. The great poet city and again bathed at the Panchaganga Ghat. temple that all Western tourists should visit if eyes closed, facing the morning sun. Others sit Tulsidas, who wrote the Ram Charit Manas lived Then by His trickery He caused the departure of they want to see an authentic Shiva temple. It is near the river chanting the Hare Krishna mantra here in the 16th century. The great Vaishnava saint King Divodasa and gave Varanasi back to Lord well kept, clean, and surrounded by fountains, on beads, or will be doing other morning rituals. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu preached, sang, and Shiva, and Lord Vishnu and Shiva, along with pools, and nice grounds. It was made in the In fact, one old renunciant, seeing my own bead danced here too. Many noted Indian musicians other gods and goddesses, have manifested architectural style of the original Vishwanatha bag hanging from my neck, came up in a most also have homes here. themselves here in many ways ever since. temple that was in the heart of the old section friendly manner to tell me the glories of chanting

HINDUISM NOW HINDUISM NOW 28 29 SPECIAL FEATURE SPECIAL FEATURE

worship. Some people also come to worship in the nearby temples. You can hear the bells ringing as this happens. Popular temples along the ghat include one to Shitala and the Dashashvamedheshvara Shiva lingam. Another temple is the Shulatankeshvara, and one of Brahmeshvara, which is a Shiva lingam said to have been installed by Brahma himself during his stay here.

Observatory at Man Mandir The next ghat is Man Mandir, above which we find the small but unique observatory of Jai Singh. Jai Singh was known for being a great king, musician, and astronomer. He built more elaborate observatories in New Delhi, , and two smaller ones in Mathura and Ujjain.

Amidst the Chaos lies Kashi Viswanatha Not far from here is the Godaulia area or the old part of the city which is a maze of narrow and the holy names of Krishna. In essence, he stated ashvamedhas millenias ago in order to attain the that to always be chanting the names of God purity to see Lord Shiva at Varanasi. At this ghat crowded alleyways through decaying buildings means that one is liberated from material life. people gather from all over the world, from all that lead past many little shops, temples, guest But mostly he was expressing his happiness to walks of life. Here they take their holy bath, or houses or hotels, and homes of the local people. see a Westerner taking to the process since he perform rituals to the Ganga, or consult with local The sights and smells of this place could be a had obviously attained his own experiences of priests found sitting under the rattan umbrellas, little overwhemling for a westerner, especially enlightenment through the chanting process. and discuss their lives, horoscopes, and their in the heat of summer. But, nonetheless, there spiritual progress. It is by far the busiest ghat are new discoveries and experiences to have Kedara Ghat in Varanasi and the most easily reached. In the amongst these alleys if one is open to them. The next important ghat is Kedara Ghat where morning you can see group tours or individuals In the middle of this area is the temple of pilgrims bathe in the Ganga before climbing the climbing into the boats to float past the ghats and Vishwanatha, Shiva as Lord of the Universe. The steps to the Kedareshvara temple, with the red to watch the activities of the local people who present temple was built in 1776 by Ahalya Bai and white stripes on the outside of the building, use the ghats each morning along the riverside. of Indore after the original temple was which is one of the most important Shiva A boat ride down the Ganga at Varanasi can be torn down by the fanatic Muslim Aurangzeb who temples in Varanasi. The Kashi Khanda states a very relaxing and interesting experience that built the mosque in its place. The mosque on the that just deciding to come here destroys the should not be missed. other side of the courtyard is separated from the sins accumulated in this lifetime, while seeing temple by the Jnana Vapi well (Well of Wisdom) the temple destroys the sins of seven lifetimes. Ganga Puja at Dashashvamedha where the original Shiva linga was hid in order Bathing in the Ganga River and then worshiping In the evening the elaborate Ganga puja is to keep the Muslim invaders from harming it. the Kedareshvara lingam is said to destroy the performed, where five priests on five platforms Some people say the original linga was never sins of 10 million lifetimes. The temple also simultaneously perform the worship of the recovered from the well and is still at the bottom. has deities of Durga, Ganesh, Shiva, etc., and Ganga River. They offer incense, large camphor Needless to say, with the temple and mosque Westerners are allowed inside for darshan. lamps, large ghee lamps, and yak tail fans. so close, police patrol the mosque continually to It is a great sight to see and makes for good prevent disturbances. The courtyard and temple Dashashvamedha Ghat photography or video to take back with you. are situated behind a large wall making it difficult A short walk farther up is the busy Many people also come here in the evening to to see from the outside, and the south entrance Dashashvamedha Ghat where the bather gets the merely sit on the steps, socialize, watch other into the courtyard is for Hindus only, while the results of ten ashvamedha sacrifices or special people, and enjoy the cool breeze. Others take Muslims enter from the north entrance. But the rituals for spiritual power and advancement. evening boat rides, which often gather on towers of the temple that are plated with three- It was here that Lord Brahma performed ten the river near the ghats to watch the Ganga quarters of a ton of gold can be seen from a

HINDUISM NOW 30 31 SPECIAL FEATURE SPECIAL FEATURE

rooftop across the street, or from the rooftop of a part of Manikarnika Ghat. You can see piles of excessive display of sorrow by family members forms on a daily basis. Also on the ghat is the hotel near the courtyard. logs stacked on the steps ready for cremations, at this time is said to be inauspicious for the Tarakeshvara linga temple, which represents and sometimes there can be as many as five or dead, who is entering a new realm of existence. Shiva who whispers the mantra of liberation into Inside the temple is the Vishwanatha linga, a six cremations taking place at once. The fires the ears of those who die here. smooth black stone sitting about a foot tall on can easily be seen at night from a long distance Why Cremation? a silver altar on the floor. Many otherlingas away, and the smoke can fill the air of theghat The Doms are the people who manage the Panchaganga Ghat are clustered around it. There are several other by day. Anyone can watch, but this is no place cremation grounds and collect fees for tending The next important ghat is Panchaganga Ghat, a shrines around the temple, including one of for photography which you will soon discover if the fires and supplying the wood. They gather the most holy confluence of the fivepancha ( ) rivers, Vishnu that must be worshiped as one enters the you try taking photos. The fact that death is ever- ashes of the deceased to be put into the Ganges. which include the Ganges, Yamuna, Sarasvati temple. The temple interior is not very ornate, present is obvious in India. Disease and death are By cremating the body of the deceased, it is (which joined in Allahabad), and the Dhutpapa but it can be quite crowded and filled with an not hidden away like in America, but are a fact of believed that the disembodied spirit will be more and Kirana, which are but trickling streams. Here intense mood of devotion. On the street just life that is dealt with on a daily basis; a reminder likely to go on to the next realm of existence. If we find many little niches on the steps housing outside the courtyard entrance are many shops of the reasons why people are more spiritually the person had been very attached to life in the various deities, one with a reclining Vishnu. It selling all kinds of religious paraphernalia, such inclined in India. material body, the spirit may want to cling to the was here that the famous poet Kabir was initiated as beads, flowers, incense, pictures of Shiva, etc. body in some way. If the body is cremated, then by Ramananda. The street, Vishwanatha Lane, has seen millions There is a reason for the cremations at this the spirit will be forced to move on. Furthermore, of pilgrims from all walks of life. And when they location. The deceased are brought to the by pouring Ganga water on the body and the Bindu Madhava Temple leave Vishwanatha they stop at the small temple cremation ground by family members, and the ashes, it is believed to help spiritually purify the Above the steep and narrow steps leading of Annapurna (Goddess of Plenty) across the eldest son shaves his head and dresses in a deceased from past karma. It is said in shastra through the buildings is the Bindu Madhava street. She is considered the Queen of Varanasi, white cloth and, when everything is ready, lights (the Vedic texts), such as the Kashi Khanda, that temple, one of the most significant Krishna another aspect of the wife of Lord Shiva. the funeral pyre. The family stays until the body people who leave their bodies here will attain temples in Varanasi. On the altar is a beautiful of the deceased has burned, and then the son liberation and will receive spiritual existence. This Krishna deity that stands about two feet tall, Sights along the Burning Ghats of Varanasi throws the part of the body that does not burn is why it is the desire of many people to die and and smaller Sita-Rama and -Narayana Jalasai Ghat into the Ganga, and douses the last embers with be cremated in Varanasi. It is also said that Lord deities. The temple room is somewhat small, with Farther upstream we come to the Jalasai a pot of Ganga water, thus purifying whatever is Shiva whispers the mantra of liberation into the walls interspersed with windows and prints of cremation ghat, which is often referred to as left of their relative. Then they turn and leave. An ear of those who die here, thus assuring them of Krishna’s pastimes. The present Bindu Madhava a higher existence in their next life. temple is in a quaint building but still visited by many pilgrims. It is known to have been rebuilt Manikarnika Ghat several times from the 12th to 16th centuries, and The next ghat is the Manikarnika, the most used to be a marvelous structure and a very rich auspicious of all the ghats. Here Lord Vishnu’s temple in which the deity, that had been quite footprints are set in a circular marble slab in large at that time, was dressed in a wide array a little shrine, the holiest spot in Varanasi. It is of jewels. But the Muslim ruler Aurangzeb tore it said that here is where the process of universal down and built a mosque in its place. This is the creation and annihilation begins. The little 20 foot huge mosque which dominates the skyline, but is square spring-fed pond or kund that is also found now unused and locked up. You can, however, get here above the ghat, which used to be a lake the guard from the nearby house to unlock the many years ago, is said to have been dug out door to the mosque for you for a small donation. by Lord Vishnu with His disc near the beginning After climbing the steep stairs inside, you reach of creation and was filled with the water of the rooftop for a good view of the Ganga River as His perspiration. Inside on the north steps is a it flows past the city. In the back of the mosque small shrine with little deities of Vishnu. It was you can still see remnants of the old Bindu also here that Devi Parvati’s jeweled-earring Madhava temple that the Muslims used for (Manikarnika) fell into the pool. But the Shiva building the mosque. Purana explains that it was Vishnu’s earring that fell into the pool when the water expanded, upon Adi Keshava Temple which Lord Vishnu floated while bringing forth The Adi Keshava temple, next to the confluence the cosmic egg or universe and the process of of the Varana and Ganga Rivers, has a very universal creation. It is also said that all the gods ancient significance. As mentioned earlier, Lord and goddesses come here to bathe in their subtle Vishnu first appeared here when He came to get

HINDUISM NOW HINDUISM NOW 32 33 SPECIAL FEATURE CRIMES AGAINST HINDUISM

Jizyah—Taxing Hindus

PRERNA DUSIJA

racing its origin in the Koran, Jizya or person’s economic position in the society. In due ‘Jizyah’ according to Prophet Muhammad, course, in different parts of the country, which Twas a per capita tax or a poll tax levied came under Islamic rule, the Jizyah, along with by Islamic states on non-Muslim individuals to other taxes was imposed on non-Muslims. The remind them of their inferior status. Rooted in first ruler who attempted to abolish Jizyah was barbarism, the Koran states the following about Akbar, which was in general followed by his how Jizyah should be extorted: successors, Jehangir and Shah Jahan.

“Fight those who believe not in Allah, nor the “In 1679, Aurangzeb reintroduced Jizyah at the Last day, nor hold that forbidden which hath usual rates of forty eight dirhams on the rich, been forbidden by Allah and His Messenger, twenty four on the middle class, and twelve nor acknowledge the religion of Truth (even if on the poor, the rich being those earning ten they are) of the People of the Book, until they thousand dirhams or more a year, the middle pay the Jizyah with willing submission, and feel class earning that over two hundred and the poor themselves subdued.” those earning less.”2

There are many places in the Hadith (collection Well into the times of Aurangzeb, Muslim tax of traditions containing the sayings of Prophet collectors would take wives and children of Hindus the city back from King Divodasa for Lord Shiva. residents by chanting and dancing during His Muhammad) and Sira (Biography of Prophet and sell them into slavery if impoverished Hindus Unfortunately, because of its distance from the visit to Varanasi. When He first arrived He bathed Muhammad) where Muhammad lays down the failed to pay the tax. According to tradition, it was other temples, and due to people forgetting at the Manikarnika Ghat and visited and preached rule that the Jizyah be extracted by force: “If they only fitting, that a Muslim tax collector remind its importance, few pilgrims from outside at the Vishwanatha temple where people lined refuse to accept Islam, demand from them the non-Muslims of their inferior status (of not being Varanasi visit, so they are glad to see anyone. up to see Him. He also held huge kirtanas Jizyah. If they refuse to pay the tax, seek Allah’s Muslims) by humiliating them. There are instances The Sangameshvara linga in a shrine next to Adi (congregational singing) at ghats such as the help and fight them.”1 where these tax collectors would spit into the Keshava is said to have been installed by Lord Panchaganga. mouths of a Hindu after collecting the tax, making Brahma, as was the four-faced Brahmeshvara Jizyah was imposed in India, soon after the After having darshan and offering our respects Muhammad’s words, of making the non-Muslim deity next to it. The Linga Purana states that those first Arab invasion of Sind, by the 19-year old to the deities at this temple, we can take the long feel ‘subdued,’ ring true. who bathe in the confluence of the rivers here Muhammad Bin Qasim in 712 AD. Hindus and walk back to Dashashvamedha Ghat. Or if we and then worship Sangameshvara need never Buddhists, unwilling to convert to Islam, were Though Jizyah as we now know, does not exist, want, we can begin walking along the river until fear taking rebirth. imposed with the Jizyah. In its initial stage, there are efforts by radical Islamic organizations we find a boat for hire and just ride a boat back. brahmins and ascetics were exempt from this such as the Taliban and ISIS to resurrect it in parts Chaitanya Mahaprabhu Was Here! After touring the many ghats and temples tax. But this reprieve lasted for only a couple of of the world they dominate. The Bindu Madhava temple, along with the along the river and elsewhere, and after seeing centuries. During the rule of the Delhi Sultanate, Adi Keshava temple, was where Sri Chaitanya References the Vishwanatha temple, our pilgrim’s tour of the tax was imposed on all non-Muslims, with http://www.thereligionofpeace.com/pages/quran/jizya.aspx Mahaprabhu stayed and preached to the Varanasi is complete. varying degrees of emphasis, depending on a http://www.bharatvani.org/books/jtsi/ch03.html

HINDUISM NOW HINDUISM NOW 34 35 RETRACING VEDIC HISTORY

harat has seen its line of kings. However reign indeed. (To know more about the Sangam Southern India saw the rule of three major Age and Kumari Kandam read the June 2016 Blineages of Kings, namely the Cheras, the issue of Hinduism Now) Cholas and the Pandiyas. Three Prominent Dynasties of South India Etymological Origins of Pandiya Of the three main ruling families of Southern The first recorded Pandiya king was named India—the Cholas, the Cheras and the Pandiyas, Kulashekharan. He started the legacy of the the Cholas and Pandiyas had an unstable Pandiya name, which stems from the word Pandi, relationship, constantly bickering and fighting the Tamil word for bull. It is said that he was with each other throughout the centuries. They as strong as a bull, leading the nation that he managed to seize their own land to set up their served. According to the epic Mahabharata, the kingdoms, but through the centuries each of legendary Malayadwaja Pandiya, who sided with these families rose to power, having more land the Pandavas and took part in the Kurukshetra under their name than the other two. War of the Mahabharata, is described as follows in Karna Parva (verse 20.25): Losing to Prakriti’s Forces From the early Sangam days, a lot of the “Although knowing that the shafts (arrows) of the resistance the Pandiyas faced were natural high souled son of Drona employed in shooting calamities. Kumari Kandam sinking is one were really inexhaustible, yet Pandya, that bull such example. They reigned in power for a few among men, cut them all into pieces”. thousand years, their beginnings currently traceable to the First Sangam Age. After the Malayadwaja Pandya and his queen invasion by the Kalabhras the Pandiya empire Kanchanamala had one daughter Thataathagai suffered for some time. They recovered under the known popularly as Meenakshi who succeeded reign of Kandugon in the 6th century who ruled her father and reigned the kingdom successfully. out of Madurai. The Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple was built after her and the city of Madurai was built around Chera Allies to Oust Cholas this temple. During the 9th century CE, the Cholas gained powers and effectively drove off the Pandiya First Mention—Sangam Ages stronghold and establish supremacy. The Cholas The Pandiya kings ruled over a Tamil region maintained their power and expanded their located at the southern tip of India (including territories to rule supreme until the 12th century what is now ), extending into what CE. During this time the Pandiyas’ resources is Sri Lanka and surrounding landmasses. It is The Pandiyas dwindled. described that the Pandiya kings had ruled the land of Kumari Kandam, a lost land in the Indian They allied with the Cheras in order to have a Ocean that surrounds Sri Lanka and extends stronger fighting chance against the Cholas. They Longest Dynastic Lineage of south from the southern tip of India, through the overturned the power of the Chola empire and majority (if not all) of the three Tamil Sangams. re-established the reigns of the Pandiya empire in the 13th century. From hereon began the golden A Sangam is a historic era in South Indian history age for the Pandiya nation. Padiya Nadu, under Kings in History marked by the assemblage of scholars, poets, the guidance of Maravman Sundara Pandyan theologians, philosophers and people of power and Jatavarman Sundara Pandyan, expanded its for the purpose of sharing information and boundaries to include the Telugu country, Kalinga strengthening the Tamil culture. Each of the three and Sri Lanka. Sangams has happened in different cities, such CHARUYAN SRIKUMARAN as Old Madurai, in succession and has been in Weakened by Repeated Islamic Invasions effect up to a few thousand years. The Pandiya Eventually, at the end of their reign, they suffered lineage has ruled on and off Southern India up greatly after the repeated attacks of the Muslim th until the 15 century, proving to be a very long rulers (under Allaudin Khilji) of the north. The

HINDUISM NOW HINDUISM NOW 36 37 RETRACING VEDIC HISTORY

Islamic rulers had heard of the vast riches and were built and owned by the Pandiya kings during treasures, especially hidden in the temples and their rule. These included the Meenakshi Amman GURU PURNIMA—JULY 19, 2016 decided to usurp them. At the time of the Islamic Temple in Madurai and the Nellaipar Temple in invasions, the Pandiya armies were not as well Tirunelveli on the banks of Thamirabarani. equipped and were not at peak performance due During their golden age, having controlled the to shortages of water and food. southern tip of India as well as the northern A Brethren to Protect Madurai Meenakshi coast of Sri Lanka, the Pandiya empire flourished Temple in marine businesses. They successfully During the invasions, the Muslim rulers heard monopolized the pearl industry, since all the about the treasures of the Meenakshi temple. great pearls were found in their region. The Being Shaivites, the brethren Vira Pandiya and Pandiyas became masters of literature and trade, Sundara Pandiya were distraught and enraged securing major trade deals. Even the Western about the sheer destruction of the Shiva temples civilization situated around the Mediterranean and the deities in the neighboring kingdoms such heard of the great kings of the Pandiya empire. as the Hoysalas. Sundara Pandiya decided to act Declining Power aggressively, to stop the plundering invaders In the 1300s the remnants of the Pandiya from the temples while Vira Pandiya decided to power started to diminish. Region by region, play defensive in Madurai. Sundara Pandiya and people started to declare their own sovereignty his infantry quickly fell to the heavily armored disavowing the Pandiya empire. This started infantry of the Islamic invaders. A few of the with Sri Lanka declaring its independence. Later temples got plundered because of this. in Madurai and the rest of southern India, the Only Vira Pandiya and his walled Madurai city citizens followed suit and defected from their and Meenakshi Temple remained. The Muslim allegiance to the Pandiya king in the 14th century. invaders under the leadership of Malikafur tried The Pandiyas shifted their capital to Thirunelveli. breaking through the Madurai fortress but slowly With the annexure of Madurai to the Vijaynagara their army dwindled down due to the expertise of empire in the 14th century, the Pandiyas’ influence the Pandiya archers. Eventually, with a weakened disappeared completely. army, the Muslim invaders got through but But the Pandiya lineage, beginning in the BCE they were not strong enough to take down era of the 1st Sangam Age in Kumari Kandam and Vira Pandiya’s defenses. So Vira Pandiya and continued through 1,300 years of the CE, makes Malikafur came to an agreement—the invaders this dynastic rule the longest ever the world has got to take the treasures and jewelry stored in the known in recorded history. Madurai temple but agreed to leave the deities intact and released Vira’s brother Sundara. References 1. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pandyan_dynasty) 2. http://www.revolvy.com/main/index.php?s=Pandyan%20 Economy and Religious Following dynasty&item_type=topic Since the land the Pandiyas ruled were coastal 3. http://devenrankulam.blogspot.ca/2013/04/the-pandya-who- saved-meenakshi-temple.html and harbor areas, the people of the Pandiya 4. http://www.gloriousindia.com/history/pandyan_kingdom. empire were great sailors and hence their flag html 5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pandyan_dynasty bore the symbol of the fish. Many of the people were into agriculture, proving to be a major asset to the nation when it came to trading. Since a good population of the people of the Pandiya Gurur-Brahmaa Gurur-Vishnnur-Gururdevo Maheshvarah | empire were farmers, it made sense that they Gurure[-I]va Param Brahma Tasmai Shrii-Gurave Namah ||1|| worshipped Indra, the God of Rain, honoring him when it came to harvest time. Meaning: 1.1: The Guru is Brahma, the Guru is Vishnu, the Guru Deva is Maheswara (Shiva), The Pandiya kings themselves became Shaivites. Many Hindu temples, especially Shaivite ones 1.2: The Guru is Verily the Para-Brahman (Supreme Brahman); Salutations to that Guru.

HINDUISM NOW 38 HINDU PHILOSOPHY

was not willing to initiate Ramanujacharya easily. also became one of the basic dimension of He made Ramanujacharya travel all the way from Visistadvaita. Hence, surrendering and serving Srirangam to Madurai nearly eighteen times, and the master or the deity is considered as the only after exacting many promises of secrecy, he highest action anyone can do and is a main made up his mind to initiate him. component of the truth of Vishishtadvaita.

When Periya Nambi initiated Ramanujacharya, Vishishtadvaita can be simplified as Surrender he said: “Keep this Powerful Mantra a secret. and Devotion towards the Ultimate Reality that is Those who repeat this Mantra will attain salvation. expressing it’s glory in all dimensions. With the Give it only to a worthy and sincere disciple”. But inner space of gratitude towards the Brahman, Ramanujacharya’s extreme compassion and love one can easily achieve and experience oneness for humanity was unbounded and he wanted every with the ultimate. Ramanujacharya, being the man to enjoy the eternal bliss of Lord Narayana. only strong enlightened master to bring this science out, has literally changed the way we see The moment he got initiated, he couldn’t Vishishtadvaita today and because of him, many handle the intensity of his new experience of Hindus have experienced this to be the most Vishishtadvaita and immediately called everyone, joyful, blissful and happiest way to merge with irrespective of caste and creed, to assemble the Divine. before the temple. He stood on top of the tower in front of the temple and shouted out the sacred References 1. http://www.saranagathi.org/acharyas/ramanuja/articles/life. The Roots of Vishishtadvaita Mantra to all of them at the top of his voice. php 2. http://upanishadtattva.blogspot.com/2010/10/advaita-vish- Periya Nambi came to know of this and became ishtadvaita-dvaita.html 3. http://www.bharatadesam.com/people/ramanujacharya.php furious. Ramanujacharya then said: “O my Guru! 4. http://gosai.com/writings/ramanuja-and-the-sri-vaishna- MA NITHYA TRIPURANANDA Please punish me for my wrong action. I will va-sampradaya 5. http://www.mypanchang.com/ramanuja.php gladly suffer the tortures of hell myself if millions n the Hindu Tradition, once enlightened are one and the same, but characterized by of people could get salvation by hearing the masters experience the Ultimate Truth, they multiplicity. Mantra through me”. Periya Nambi was shaken express it in their own way and later guide and humbled by Ramanujacharya’s compassion I Out of these three branches, Vishishtadvaita is and instead of cursing him, Periya Nambi the entire humanity to experience that same the most famous way that many Hindu seekers truth through their experience. An example of embraced Ramanujacharya and blessed him. practice to reach Advaita. It is also a popular way that would be the truth of Advaita. It is one of of using Bhakti (devotion towards the ultimate Ramanujacharya then travelled throughout the the oldest teaching of Vedanta—one of the 6 reality) as a tool towards achieving Mukti length and breadth of India to spread the path of orthodox philosophical schools of Hinduism. (enlightenment) devotion. The basic truth of Advaita is to have the space of non-duality; experiencing that everyone and Ramanujacharya—The Pioneer of The Beauty of Vishishtadvaita everything around you is a part of the Brahman According to the core experience of Vishishtadvaita (the ultimate reality) and vice-versa. Under Ramanujacharya (Visistadvaita), Brahman is Vishishtadvaita started spreading in the world the are three major branches the One Blissful Ultimate Reality, who is the by one of the greatest enlightened masters, through which Advaita’s fundamental truth can all-pervasive ground and sustenance of the Ramanujacharya, who greatly popularized this be experienced. They are: universe—the string upon whom all pearls are branch of Advaita philosophy. He is also known threaded. The “pearls’’ depict as individual beings Advaita—Living the fundamental truth of as an intellectual Pundit who was very good and matter, which are inseparable attributes of everything and everyone is a part of Brahman at interpreting the Vedic Scriptures. This is the the Brahman, modes of Its existence according to and vise-versa story of how Vishishtadvaita went from a secret Vishishtadvaita. spiritual practice to an explosive experience: Dvaita—Living the truth that the ultimate reality, Visistadvaita also emphasizes on Saguna Brahman and the individual consciousness are Ramanujacharya went to Thirukottiyur, Tamil Brahman—Brahman with all qualities in their separate and is the exact opposite of Advaita. Nadu to take initiation from his master, Periya peak glory. The moment anyone visualizes the Nambi of the sacred eight letter Mantra ‘Om ultimate with all qualities, it’s natural to surrender Vishishtadvaita—Living the truth that the Namo Narayanaya’. Somehow, Periya Nambi Brahman and the individual consciousness oneself to it, hence Sharanagati—surrender

HINDUISM NOW HINDUISM NOW 40 41 SPIRITUAL GREATS SPIRITUAL GREATS

can happen in the human form. In spite of the The Mughal emperor Akbar had heard so much difficulties that she faced, Meera’s inner space of about Meera’s songs that he came in disguise devotion to Krishna was unshakeable. She lived a to hear her sing. Before he left, he left a pearl life that was absorbed in Krishna dhyaan (thought) necklace at her feet as a token of his appreciation. and always sang his glory and expressed her This was seen as an insult to the king’s family. longing to be in communion with Him in her They asked her to drown herself in the river. songs. She sang of surrender and love for Krishna. She was on her way to the river when Krishna She was bestowed with the cosmic vision in which appeared to her and asked her to go to Vrindavan she saw Krishna in everything around her. where she will find him again. She adhered to this call from Krishna and walked her way Saying ‘No’ to Society through the desert conditions of Rajasthan and Meera would sing and dance on the streets lost in reached Brindavan. devotion. She had no qualms about what others thought of her. She would be absorbed in devotion Merging with the Divine and loose body consciousness and was oblivious Meera’s physical body merged with the divine at to her surroundings. She knew that her devotion temple of Ranchod in Dwarka. to Krishna was the only thing that mattered in The so called ‘rationalists’ question many of her life. Meera would freely mingle with sadhus Meera Bai: Poetess Saint of the the historic proofs that are attributed to the life (renunciates) who were Krishna devotees. She did of Meera. One thing is for sure, and that is the not see them as separate from her. Bhakti Movement Bhakthi she had for Krishna was pure, tangible “Mira was fearless in her nature, simple in her and real. Her life transformed the life of many SATHISH SELVAKUMAR habits, joyous in her disposition, amiable in her who lived in her time. Her songs have left an deportment, graceful in her behaviour and elegant indelible mark on the Bhakthi movement in India. in her demeanour. She immersed herself in the Blessed are those who acquire the inner space aramahamsa Nithyananda says, “those Gopal’s (Krishna) name all the time within love of Giridhar Gopal. The name of Giridhar that Meera carried. Connect with her songs to who have experienced and lived around herself. She would dutifully do what was Gopal was always on her lips. Even in her dreams, connect to that space. Get a taste of devotion. Pa Poornavatar, happen on planet earth expected out of her in her in-law’s place. The rest she lived and had her being in Sri Krishna.” again just to show by example what it looks like of the time, she would be immersed in Bhakthi A Guru helps you to get to the space of devotion and feels like to have Bhakthi (devotion) in its for Krishna. She would sing and talk for hours on Move to Brindavan on a fast track. Seek a Guru. Seek a Master. Find purest form.” Meera Bai (born in late 15th century end to Krishna. When Meera was tortured by her husband’s and immerse yourself in devotion. Live life to the in Rajasthan, India) reflects this beautifully relatives, she sent a letter to Tulsidasji and asked She lost her husband and father-in-law in quick fullest as Cosmos wants us to spend time on this in her bhakti for Krishna. Meera Bai was the the advice of the saint. She wrote thus: “All my succession to wars with the Mughals. The rest planet. incarnation of Radha who is eternally in love with relatives trouble me, because I move amongst of the household in her in-law’s place were Poornavatar Krishna. Sadhus. I cannot carry on my devotional practices wary of her actions and could not relate to her in the house. I have made Giridhar Gopal my friend devotion. They hatched schemes to have her Falling in Love with Krishna from my very childhood. I am strongly attached to killed by snake bite and giving poison. But every Meera was born to a royal couple of Kudki district Him. I cannot break that attachment now”. of Pali (a small kingdom) around 1498. Her life’s time, Krishna intervened and miraculously she purpose was playfully revealed to her when survived these attempts on her life. Tulsidasji sent a reply: “Abandon those who she was four. She was witnessing a marriage do not worship Rama and Sita as if they are Songs of Meera ceremony and asked her mother as to who your enemies, even though they are your Thousands of songs of devotion on Krishna are her bridegroom would be. Her mother pointed dearest relatives. Prahlad abandoned his father; attributed to Meera. Even those few hundreds to a Krishna deity and said that Krishna is her Vibhishana left his brother Ravana; Bharata that have been agreed upon by historians as her bridegroom. She literally lived with Krishna from deserted his mother; Bali forsook even his Guru; compositions can move even an atheist to see that day onwards. She would talk to him, play the Gopis, the women of Vraja, disowned their the glory of Krishna. One has to pay attention to with him, sing to him and sleep with him. husbands in order to attain the Lord. Their lives the verses to understand the inner space that she were all the happier for having done so. The Marriage and Domestic Life carried. opinion of holy saints is that the relation with Against her wishes, her parents got her married God and love of God alone is true and eternal; all Living a life full of devotion is the best thing that to the king of Mewar. She would be chanting other relationships are unreal and temporary”.

HINDUISM NOW HINDUISM NOW 42 43 WOMEN OF VEDIC TIMES WOMEN OF VEDIC TIMES

other, they both fell in love and got married as devoted to light or knowledge. Bharata grew per the Gandharva marriage system. He could up to be a brave and strong child who was also not stay with her as he had to take care of kind and moral. He was fond of playing with the matters in the capital. Before returning to his animals of the forest and had a great passion for kingdom, Dushyanta gave his ring to Shakuntala learning. When the time came, Shakuntala taught and promised to return to her one day. He him the art of archery and also the use of other begged her not to lose it and to present it to him weapons, which he mastered with ease. She in his palace in case he could not return, after also acquainted him with the knowledge of the which she would be his queen. Vedas and Upanishads, all of which added to the qualities for him to become a great ruler. The Curse of Rishi Durvasa After her meeting with Dushyanta, Shakuntala Reunion of the Family was lost in her fantasies. She constantly dreamt Meanwhile, in Hastinapur, a fisherman of what her life with her new husband would miraculously found the royal ring of Dushyanta be like later on and desperately waited for his in the belly of a fish he had caught. He took the return. One day, the great sage named Rishi ring to the king as soon as he discovered whose Shakuntala: Durvasa arrived at Rishi Kanva’s ashram. He it was. Upon seeing his ring, Rishi Durvasa’s was ill-tempered and often cursed those who curse was lifted and Dushyanta’s memory of Progenitor disrespected him. He noticed that Shakuntala did Shakuntala returned. He felt extremely guilty not attend to any of his needs or even pay him for the way he treated her and humiliated her in basic respect or courtesy. Rishi Durvasa cursed front of the whole kingdom. Unsure of whether of Bharat Shakuntala that whoever she was dreaming Shakuntala would forgive him, he immediately about would forget her existence. Shakuntala set out to find her. He relocated Rishi Kanva’s felt miserable and immediately went and ashram but to his disappointment, discovered apologised to Rishi Durvasa. She explained her that she was no longer there. He refused to give VARSHA SINGH situation to him and told him what she was going up and continued to look for his wife. On his way, through. Upon seeing Shakuntala repentant, he he discovered a young boy who had opened a forgave her and mended his curse in a way that lion’s mouth and was joyfully counting all of its Dushyanta would remember Shakuntala only if teeth. After observing this brilliant scene, the Shakuntala is considered one among the many Shakuntala’s Childhood she presents a token of his love to him. king greeted the boy, and asked him who he was. women in Hinduism for their extraordinary Shakuntala was found by Rishi Kanva. He named Shockingly, the boy answered that he was the powers and roles. Her story is told in the her Shakuntala after seeing her surrounded Shakuntala’s Humiliation son of King Dushyanta. He then took Dushyanta epic story of the Mahabharata. Shakuntala and protected by a flock of Shakunta birds. She Shakuntala soon realized that she was pregnant to Shakuntala, having discovered that he was his is also the protagonist of the Sanskrit play was brought up in Rishi Kanva’s ashram as his with Dushyanta’s child. She started to feel upset father. Dushyanta apologised to Shakuntala for Abhijñānaśākuntala (The Sign of Shakuntala), the adopted daughter on the banks of River Malini. about the fact that Dushyanta had still not the way he treated her and she forgave him. The 5th century classic by the great scholar Kalidasa. She had the constant company of her pet deer returned to her. On Rishi Kanva’s advice, she went family was reunited thereon. and her two friends, Anasuya and Priyamvada. to Hastinapur to reunite with her husband. On Shakuntala’s story begins with a great King She enjoyed roaming around the hills and the the way, she had to cross a river. While playfully Bharata’s Lineage named Vishwamitra. After facing a conflict with Malini river and grew up into an extremely feeling the river waters, Dushyanta’s ring slipped Bharata was made the new ruler of Hastinapur. He Rishi Vashishta, he decided to undertake severe beautiful, elegant and kind young woman. She off her hand. Due to this, Dushyanta did not soon conquered the whole of India, which was later penance for thousands of years. As the years was considered so graceful that even all the recognise her on her arrival and humiliated her in named Bharatavarsha after him, meaning ‘Country went by, the Devas began to notice how powerful animals in the forest enjoyed being around her. front of his entire court. Shakuntala’s companions of Bharata’. It was Bharata’s lineage which lead to he was becoming and sent the apsara (heavenly also betrayed her and abandoned her by returning the advent of the Pandavas and Kauravas, who nymph) Menaka, to break his penance. Menaka Meeting of Shakuntala and Dushyanta to the hermitage. On being humiliated, she were responsible for the whole Mahabharata war, succeeded in doing so, and gave birth to a girl King Dushyanta was the great ruler of decided to return to the forest. and the future lineage of Bharat. child (Shakuntala). Vishvamitra later realized what Hastinapur. He was travelling through the Menaka had done and abandoned his family. forest with his army while on a hunt. During References: Birth and Upbringing of Bharata 1. http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/sha/sha12.htm Menaka in turn abandoned her child in a forest, the hunt, he wounded Shankuntala’s male deer. In the forest Shakuntala gave birth to a baby 2. http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m01/m01073.htm knowing that she could neither be reunited with On discovering whose it was, he immediately 3. Macfie, J. M (1993). Myths and Legends of India. New Del- boy who she decided to raise all by herself. She hi: Rupa & Co. ISBN 978-81-7167-131-1. (p. 323) her husband nor take care of her daughter alone. apologised to her. On spending time with each named him Bharata, meaning the one who is

HINDUISM NOW HINDUISM NOW 44 45 VEDIC SOCIETY VEDIC SOCIETY

seasons (flies, bacteria, etc.) specific Varna. For instance, Satyakama Jabala, Was the a character whose story is mentioned in the Varna (when used as per the classification), means Chandogya Upanishad, was born to a dancer. His being adopted by choice. The four main Varnas are: teacher asked him what his father did for a living. Caste System 1. Shudra—working class When he went home to ask his mother, she said 2. Vaishya—business class that she did not know who his father was since she 3. Kshatriya—ruling class Discriminatory? had multiple partners. 4. Brahmin—knowledge (teaching) class He said this to his teacher and the teacher inducted The Varnas In Vedic Times him to his gurukul stating that because of his Each Varna was just as important as the others for honesty and sincerity, he determined the child must he straight answer to this question is no, it Sons naturally chose to take on the occupation the society. The Mahabharata clearly stated that all be a Brahmin. Like this there are many stories of was not. There are many examples in Vedic of the father since the father had mastery in that creations are God’s creation. There is no being who different children joining different Varnas. Ttexts where people born unto parents of art and that mastery took years of practice and is higher or lower based on birth. certain castes were able to exist in different castes. experience to develop. The sons would spend time This story shows that eventually, it was The balance of the society was ensured by each But before going into the examples let’s explore from an early age as an apprentice to the father the character and quality of the individual of the Varnas. Each of these Varnas had a distinct what is meant by the caste system. and the whole society benefitted from this model. thatdetermined their Varna. quality of power. For example, Kshatriyas had Rulers were usually determined by the bloodline people power, Brahmins had knowledge power, Caste—Definition (kings, queens) and were immersed in political Brahmins Are Superior?—Not True! Vaishyas had wealth power, and Shudras had land There is a notion that the Brahmin is higher than all Let us first define the word caste, from a lay affairs at a very young age. person’s perspective. Here is a definition taken power. Everyone knew they needed everybody else. But this is all just about perspective. Brahmins from Dictionary.com of the word “Caste.” It is natural for people to mix with people of else. There was no concentration of power in any didn’t have many material possessions or political similar tastes. This has been apparent in all social individual Varna. powers. According to some individuals, material noun situations across time. Students like to mingle with possessions serve for a more enjoyable life than 1. Sociology. other students who have similar interests. Doctors How Varna Was Applied a life of renunciation. Many people choose to be a a. an endogamous and hereditary social group like to mingle with doctors, businessmen with During the Vedic period, everyone became a part of a different class, material or otherwise. limited to persons of the same rank, occupation, businessmen, and so on. Shudra from birth. Depending on their education economic position, etc., and having more, they could establish themselves in each of the other Brahmins only had knowledge. They came to distinguishing it from other such groups. Caste System and Hinduism Varnas, or remain a Shudra by choice. The students this level of being through purification of their We will now relate this to Hinduism. The fact that a were carefully monitored to see which path Samskaras (engraved memories), that refined their b. any rigid system of social distinctions. caste system, especially with regard to the above, would be suitable for them, depending on their being. In Sanatana Hindu Dharma, it is believed The following is a definition more specific towards that it was associated to Hinduism is just deceiving personality and interests. For example, if one was that coming to a level of refinement requires Hinduism, again from Dictionary.com.. the public who think that this idea was only present to have spiritual experiences at a young age, they lifetime after lifetime of spiritual practice. So there in India. It is present all over the world. But even would be a prime candidate to become a Brahmin. are some beings that have an appeal towards the 2. Hinduism. any of the social divisions into associating the caste system with Hinduism is If they showed physical prowess, they would Brahmin Varna. But in the end it is their current which Hindu society is traditionally divided, each misinformation. be a prime candidate to be a Shudra. If they are qualities and character, defined by the choices they caste having its own privileges and limitations, martially spirited, they became prime candidates make in their current lifetime that makes them a In Sanskrit there is no word for caste. There are two transferred by inheritance from one generation to for Kshatriya. If they showed business capabilities, Brahmin. words that comes close to the idea of caste. The the next; also known as ‘jaati.’ they would be great for Vaishya. words are “Jaati” and “Varna.” Conclusion From all this let’s pick up the elements that describe It was natural for the students to follow in their It is clear to see the distortion of information. It is ‘Jaati,’ (when used as per the classification), alludes the word ‘caste.’ Caste is a social classification father’s’ footsteps, because their own genetics true that India has strayed away from its roots. With to that of having a similar birth source. Jaati itself system that divides a group based on how you supported that Varna. This was the science of the the different invasions and an amalgamation of means Creation of God. The four classifications of interact with the group at large. The most distinct Gotras that were mastered by the ancient Rishis. different ideals, a system that brought tremendous Jaati are: attribute is that caste is hereditary, the caste you Each of the Gotras were encoded with the traits that peace and unity has been crushed. All that is left is 1. Andaja—those that sprouted from the ground belong to is the caste that your parents belong to. would help them flourish in that specific field. confusion about the system that once was in a state (vegetation) of order. From this point we can see that caste as seen 2. Udbhija—those that are born out of eggs (fish, Varna System—A Fluid System from the public eye is not limited to Hinduism. All birds, reptiles, etc.) Sources: However, there were many cases where different 1. Paramahamsa Nithyananda’s discourses on Upanishads societies have a caste system at play based on the 3. Pindaja—those born out of physical bodies; live- children followed a different path than their father. 2. http://www.sanskritimagazine.com/indian-religions/hindu- ism/no-caste-system-hinduism/ role taken, be it occupation, service, intellectual births (mammals) This proved that people were not bound to a achievements or one’s contributions to society. 4. Swedaja—those that reproduce in favourable

HINDUISM NOW HINDUISM NOW 46 47 VEDIC MEDICINE VEDIC MEDICINE

These are panchakarmas according to this school before the actual treatment, medicated ghee of thought. or oil should be administered. In parallel, body massage (Abhyanga) with medicated oil and The second school was School of Surgery, which steam bath should be given. These procedures was led by Acharya Sushrutha and according to remove toxins from the blood, tissues, nervous them panchakarmas are: system and also from the mind. When the • Vamana (emesis) toxins enter the abdomen, the actual procedure • Virechana (purgation) of panchkarma is to be performed. These pre • Vasti (both oil and decoction enema) operative procedures are followed before every • Nasya (Nasal infusion of medicines) panchakarma treatment. • Rakta mokshana (Bloodletting) Post operative or pashchaat karma Brief Description of the Panchakarmas The post operative or pashchaat karma consists These procedures are conducted one after of bringing back the metabolism and energy lost another in patients who are suffering from during the detoxification. The person undergoing Panchakarma Kriyas for chronic illness, persons who want rejuvenation the treatment is administered gruels and soups (Rasayana) and before starting aphrodisiac on the next day of actual procedure, followed by therapy. Mostly, a single therapy is advised semisolid food before the person gets back to Glowing Health according to the disease. normal diet. This procedure is followed for 3 to 4 days according to the patient’s recovery from the Vamana is conducted to cure diseases of chest shodhana. DR. SHUBHAMANGALA ACHARYA and upper abdomen and mostly in Kapha imbalance. Importance of Panchakarma The Charaka samhita chikitsa stana 2nd chapter, anchakarma literally means five actions—five then shodhana or detoxification of the body is Virechana, is performed in case of lower 40th verse states that “One should wash the cloth procedures by which the body is detoxified done followed by the shaman procedure. abdomen and skin related disorders. Virechana before coloring since color can’t be applied to from the toxins accumulated by the food is used to mainly treat the pitta dosha imbalance. P A healthy person can also undergo different dirty clothes. In a similar way, the body should be and medicines consumed and the lifestyle of the Here toxins from the intestinal canal are cleared. panchakarma procedures at different seasons to cleansed before starting the treatment”. person. Human body has the ability to remove stay healthy. Vasti line of treatment is conducted for treating the toxins naturally, but repeated consumption of pelvic and diseases related to nervous system. When a person under goes panchakarma unhealthy food habits, wrong lifestyle and mental According to Ayurveda, human body is In this, imbalanced vata is corrected using therapy, the digestive energy () improves, disturbances like stress, anger etc. create more constituted by three doshas. Tridoshas are the medicated oil and decoctions by nourishing the body and mind become clear of toxins, immunity toxins in the body. These cause different diseases. vital energy forces that control the activities colon. power increases and the disease, for which the To cure the disease and bring back the doshas to and govern the physical, mental, intellectual therapy is advised will be cured. a balanced form, Shodhana (detoxification) of the structure and function in an individual. These are Nasya is followed in the treatment of head and body is necessary. To conduct shodhana, Ayurvedic present all around us. Vaata, pitta and kapha are neck related problems. Persons Unfit for Panchakarma scriptures have prescribed five procedures called the tridoshas. These are not substances and we When a person is ready to undergo Raktamokshana or bloodletting is advised for Panchakarma in Sanskrit. cannot see or feel them through our senses. (to panchakarma, he or she should have free time to treatment of non healing ulcers, abscess and know more about Tridosha read the May 2016 relax during the therapy. Very old or a very young When are they Conducted? other skin diseases. This procedure is considered issue Hinduism Now) person are unfit for treatment. Physical and The main aim of Ayurveda is primarily to as a surgical procedure. Vaidyas use different mentally very weak persons cannot withstand the maintain the health of the human beings and to What are Panchakarmas? surgical instruments or leeches to suck the blood detoxification procedure. treat any diseases that may still affect the person There are two different schools followed by according to the disease. When a person follows all the restrictions from time to time. Ayurveda acharyas. One is the school of Medicine Pre and Post PanchAkarma Procedures advised by vaidyas during the panchakarma where Acharya Charaka was the prominent To cure any disease, two lines of treatments are Pre Operative or Poorva Karma procedure, he or she will be blessed with scholar. advised. To get the toxins out of the body using the pleasant mind and glowing health. • Vamana (emesis) • When the doshas are in moderate imbalance, Panchakarma procedures, a person should be • Virechana (purgation) shamana line is followed, which is the prepared physically and mentally with different References: (Awaited) • Astapana vasti (medicated decoction enema) administration of medicines to treat the disease. poorvakarmas (pre operative procedures). This • Anuvasana vasti (medicated oil enema) • When the doshas are severely imbalanced and should start by administering digestive drugs • Nasya (nasal infusion of medicines) symptoms of chronic disorders are observed, to improve the metabolism. About 3 to 4 days

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Revealing the Revealed Yoga Scriptures to the World

SRI NITHYA MITRANANDA

n the course of time, whether it is history, again to the world. He brings back the true science or religion, information gets context of Yoga as a direct path to achieve Itransformed, altered, diluted; facts are Oneness with the Cosmic Consciousness, with forgotten or altered, perceptions are taken as the direct instructions of Sada Shiva. facts and myths are believed as truth. But truth is The result, Nithya Yoga, is this unaltered expression the truth and remains truth forever. of Yoga, undiluted from its original Source. In the yogic tradition, it is widely accepted and On the occasion of the International Yoga Day, taught that Patanjali, who wrote the Yoga Sutras June 21, 2016, Paramahamsa Nithyananda 2,500 years ago, is the Father of Yoga. Others say inaugurated a great work, where the world it is Bhagavan Sri Krishna who revealed Yoga in will take a completely new look at the ancient the Bhagavad Gita 5,000 years ago. practice of Yoga. A team of Nithya Yoga Acharyas On the occasion of the International Day of and Sanyasis of the Nithyananda Order are Yoga, June 21, 2016, His Holiness Paramahamsa going back to the original scriptures, presented Nithyananda, revealed the truth about the in Grantha or Sanskrit and translated to English, authentic Source of Yoga. “With all respects to and taking these original verses as the basis for Patanjali and his work, Patanjali is the organizer Yoga practice. of Yoga but not the originator. The originator,” he From yogic cleansing techniques, to asana said, “is Adi Guru Sadashiva himself.” Sada Shiva sequences, to breathing techniques, Nithya Yoga Himself walked as a Living Master on Planet Earth will soon present a complete comprehensive 10 to 15 thousand years before Patanjali, and He system aligned to these original scriptures, and revealed the original instructions on yoga. make it available to the whole world through This may be shocking to some, but the pure Nithyananda University. spiritual science, the Srutis on Yoga, are recorded This is only the beginning of a great revelation in ancient authentic scriptures from the Vedic and contribution to the world and Hinduism: Tradition, known as Agamas, far preceding any revealing the scriptures originally revealed by other yogic scriptures in the world. Lord Sada Shiva and allowing the world to align Paramahamsa Nithyananda now takes the their practice to the original instructions on responsibility to revive and reveal this knowledge yoga.

HINDUISM NOW HINDUISM NOW 50 51 HEALTH AND WELLNESS HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Nithya Kriya—Cure for Depression

What is Nithya Kriya? Nithya Kriya are a series of unique yogic healing processes revealed by Paramahamsa Nithyananda. While the knowledge and techniques are drawn from the most authentic and sacred yogic scriptures of India, the specific combinations are expressed from the personal experiences, research and development of Paramahamsa Nithyananda, with the objective of curing various ailments. Here we discuss the Nithya Kriya to Cure Depression.

Steps to be followed: 1. Padma Asana 2. Sheethalee Kumbhaka 3. Bhastrikaa

2. Sheethalee Kumbhaka Gheranda Samhita, Upadesha 5, Verse 73-74 Jihvayaa Vaayum Aakrushya Udare Poorayet Shanaihi | air by both the nostrils and expand the stomach; Kshanam Cha Kumbhakam Krutvaa then exhale slowly (the wind making sound like Naasaabhyaam Rechayet Punaha || 5.73 || bellows) (5.75). Having thus inspired and expired Sarvadaa Saadhayet Yogee Sheethalee- twenty times, let him perform Kumbhaka; then kumbhakam Shubham | let him expel it by the previous method. Let the Ajeernam Kapha-Pittam Cha Naiva Tasya wise one perform this Bhastrika (Bellows-like) Prajaayathe || 5.74 || Kumbhaka thrice; he will never suffer any disease Translation and will be always healthy (5.76 and 5.77). Draw in the air through the mouth (with lips Technique 1. Padma Asana contracted and tongue thrown out), and fill the 1. Continue to sit in Padma Asana Gheranda Samhita, Upadesha 2, Verse 8 stomach slowly. Retain it there for a short time. 2. Inhale slowly expanding the stomach Vaamoroopari Dakshinam Hi Charanam Then exhale through both the nostrils. Let the 3. Exhale slowly Samsthaapya Vaamam Tathaa Yogi always practice this Sheethalee Khumbhaka, 4. Do this 21 times Dakshoroopari Pashchimena Vidhinaa Krutvaa giver of bliss; by so doing, he will be free from 5. After 21 times, Now, inhale slowly Karaabhyaam Drudham | digestion, phlegm and bilious disorders. Gheranda Samhita, Upadesha 5, Verses 75 and 77 6. Hold the breath as long as you can Angushtau Hrudaye Nidhaaya Chibukam Technique Bhastraiva lohakaaraanaam Yathaa-kramena 7. When you feel you can’t hold quickly expel the Naasaagram Aalokayet 1. Continue to sit in Padma Asana. sambhramet | air with the sound of bellows. At this moment Etat-Vyaadhi-vinaashanakaram Padmaasanam 2. Close the eyes and relax the whole body Tathaa vaayum cha naasaabhyaam the stomach should contract to touch the back Prochyate || 2.8 || 3. Extend the tongue outside the mouth and roll Ubhaabhyaam Chaalayet shanaihi || 5.75 || (This is one Bhastrikaa) vam Vimshati-vaaram Cha Krutvaa Kuryaachcha 8. Do this complete sequence three times Translation the sides of the tongue up so that it forms a Kumbhakam | 1. Place the right foot on the left thigh and tube adante Chaalayet Vaayum Poorvoktam Cha similarly the left one on the right 4. Inhale slowly through the tongue Yathaavidhi || 5.76 || 2. Cross the hands behind the back and firmly 5. At the end of inhalation, roll the tongue in, Trivaaram Saadhayet Enam Bhastrikaa- catch hold of the great toes of the feet so close the mouth Kumbhakam Sudheehi | crossed 6. Retain it there for a short time Na Cha Rogo Na Cha Kleshaha Aarogyam Cha 3. Place the chin on the chest and fix the gaze on 7. Then exhale slowly through the nose Dine Dine || 5.77 || the tip of the nose (this posture is called the 8. Do this 21 times Padma Asana (or lotus posture). This posture Translation destroys all diseases) 3. Bhastrikaa As the bellows of the ironsmith constantly dilate 4. Settle in this posture for 30 seconds and contract, similarly let him slowly draw in the

HINDUISM NOW HINDUISM NOW 52 53 BHAGAVAD GITA FOR THE WORLD TODAY BHAGAVAD GITA FOR THE WORLD TODAY

in one’s master without having doubts about Twilight Zone him. Despite his high level of surrender, one does Duryodhana is operating out of his lower animal Surrender to see Arjuna initially in this state of questioning as instincts. His moves are driven completely by his well, perhaps as a lesson to us. samskaras (latent unconscious tendencies). So strong is his delusion that the wise counsel of the Master Emotional Surrender the few who told him the path he is following is At the next level, one reaches the state of a self-destructive one, falls on deaf ears. Arjuna, emotional surrender. The person feels a deep on the other hand, is in a twilight zone. Unlike connection with the master. It is impossible to About this column— Duryodhana, Arjuna has become aware of his forget Him. His memory brings tears to one’s This column shares excerpts from the commentary on Bhagavad samskaras, and is working to free himself from eyes; tears of gratitude that are impossible Gita by Enlightened Master and rare living incarnation their bondage. However, he is not in the zone of to hide. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa says so Paramahamsa Nithyananda. The intention is to highlight the eternal light yet. beautifully, “When thinking of the Divine or the relevance of Bhagavad Gita in addressing challenges, issues and Master, if you have tears streaming down your The conflict between Duryodhana and Arjuna dilemmas faced by human beings in the present day. cheeks, be very sure that this is your last birth.” is the conflict that all humans face within Emotional surrender leads one close to liberation. themselves. It is a conflict between their deep unconscious desires driven by their Verses 1.23 to 1.24 of the Bhagavad Gita describe the scene Surrender of the Senses samskaras and the potential awareness of their At the final level, there is surrender of the senses. consciousness. Which part wins depends on one’s where following the sounding of conches, Arjuna requests One truly realizes Hrsikesa (the master as the ability to surrender to the superconscious Divine one who controls the senses) and gives up one’s or the master. Krishna to position his chariot between the two armies. distorted sense of reality and embraces the truth of absolute reality. Arjuna is at that level A person who is born blind has no idea what of surrender and through the progression of the sight is, what light is, and what he is missing. the source of His happiness and therefore He did Surrender to the Master Gita, we see Arjuna’s transformation taking place. Whatever he may think he is missing is based on rjuna is referred to as Gudakesa in not run after sensual pleasures for His fulfilment. what others tell him, not any experience of his these verses. Gudakesa is one who has Mind based on Instinct own. However, someone who has been born with Stages of Surrender Atranscended sleep, or the need to sleep. Arjuna calls Duryodhana evil-minded. When sight and subsequently loses it will miss it. He When approaching the Divine or one’s master, Sleep, here, refers to the unconscious mind. All one’s mind is filled with greed, lust, envy and would be afraid of that darkness, which a person the ultimate step is one of complete surrender. our embedded memories and beliefs reside in fear, there is single-minded focus on the potential born blind would never fear because that would This surrender happens in three stages. our unconscious mind. Arjuna is being referred to material benefits of these negative and evil always have been his/her experience. here as one who has conquered his samskaras, emotions. Duryodhana’s objectives were very Intellectual Surrender Arjuna is in the state of a person who has had as a result of his total surrender to Krishna. clear—do away with Pandava princes and usurp First, the intellectual acceptance of what the master sight and has now lost it. He was an intelligent the entire kingdom. Duryodhana was like an Krishna has been called as Hrsikesa, one who represents and what he means to you. A true man but suddenly wondered whether what he was animal, operating out of instinct. He was not an controls the senses. The relationship between seeker reaches this stage when he encounters the doing might be wrong and evil. So he is disturbed. intelligent man and did not suffer from doubts Krishna and Arjuna is the highest form of real master destined for him/her. At this stage, and guilt. He needed power, and whatever was interaction between the Divine and the human. when the disciple meets the master, questions Duryodhana on the other hand has a mind that start dying down. It is as if answers come to one’s the means to achieve that power, he employed has always been in darkness. He has never You see, for one who is caught in the sleep mind even before the questions happen. Questions without any reservation. experienced true intelligence or awareness. of unconscious living, this world of illusion Therefore, words such as ‘immoral’ or ‘unethical’ are a reflection of one’s internal violence wishing A human being has a level of consciousness appears utterly real and permanent. But the would make no sense to him. to prove one’s control over another person. We higher than that of animals. He can discriminate enlightened master has awakened to the level of ask questions only to tell the other person that we between right and wrong and has the free will pure consciousness and knows that this world Make a conscious choice. Surrender to the Divine know something. Rarely are our questions like that to act based on such awareness. When a human is just another dream. When the disciple is able or the master. Be aware of the level of surrender of a child, who asks out of curiosity. behaves the way Duryodhana does, he is in the to completely trust the master’s senses that this you are at now. Expand towards surrendering unconscious and unware state. Mired totally in world is an illusion and not his own senses that Intellectual surrender to the master, replaces your senses. Seeing the Hrsikesa is easier in the unawareness, the Kaurava warriors followed give the idea that this world is real and is the questions with doubts. Doubts are not violent form of the master. Duryodhana blindly. Arjuna, on the other hand, is source of his happiness, then the surrender is like questions. They arise from a genuine need Source : in turmoil. As Krishna brings the chariot to a stop total. Krishna’s senses were controlled. He knew to know to understand. Doubt and faith are two Bhagavad Gita Demystified by Paramahamsa Nithyananda; p. between the two armies, in a metaphoric sense 35 – 38 that what He experienced through them was not sides of the same coin. One cannot develop faith ISBN 13: 978-1-60607-132-8 He brings Arjuna’s mind to a steady state.

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Asteya—The Ohlone Way It demonstrated that you were not greedy in There is a fundamental question inherent in non- accumulating wealth.” stealing as to whether the notion of “mine” should really exist. Because if we truly practice asteya Benefits of Asteya the idea of possession of yours versus mine is As understood within the context of the Ohlone dissolved. Certainly the Native American tribe people’s way of life, asteya is the sense of what called the Ohlone (who flourished more than 200 should and could be the natural give and take of years ago in what is now the state of California) life. It is the sense that we are here for everyone did not live as if there were such a thing as “mine”. and that we should act with the understanding They were a true example of the art and practice of that if we live as a community, sharing instead of asteya as described by Hannah Hemingway: inappropriately and aggressively taking. Then we will all prosper and benefit. “The Ohlone….. paid a good deal of respect to their fellow tribe members. Sharing (was) a fundamental By practicing asteya, people can develop a deeper precept in the Ohlone philosophy, and so there understanding of their relationship to others, to was rarely a broad division of wealthy and poor. themselves and to the world around them. They After a hunt, meat was distributed to friends, can develop what Paramahamsa Nithyananda extended family members, and those members refers to as swatantra - the ability to be so sure in the community who were in need. The hunter about oneself that one is capable of enjoying the rarely kept any of the fruits of his hunt for himself, whole world as one’s “oyster”. In other words, to and women often gave their finest baskets or practice asteya well, as is true with practicing all the flour to another woman. They did not place value Yamas, one is able to know oneself so completely Asteya is a Many on the acquisition of physical wealth, but rather that an ability will develop to act with power and the esteem and friendship brought about by decisiveness in all situations. Splendoured Thing generosity. Sharing with others ensured a strong References: position in the tribal structure that guaranteed 1. Hemingway, Heather, From Peace to Present: A Look at the Ohlone Indians. Paragraph 7 Page 1, Monterey County a man and his family security should anything Historical Society. bad befall them. Other members would care for 2. Love is a Many Splendored Thing, Han Suyin 3. Do Good, Be Good, Feel Good: A Guide to Yogas: Yama and BARBARA LIPPMAN them just as they had cared for others. Behaving Niyama Part 3 (Asteya) Online, Stephanie S April 29, 2016 generously was the only way they could conceive of acting appropriately. Living in moderation went hand in hand with the concept of sharing. amas come from Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and existence is providing. This is true also concerning represent a series of “right living” or ethical humankind’s exploitation of nature. Taking too Yrules within Hinduism and Yoga. Asteya is much oil from the ground is a way of stealing from one of the Yamas. the very foundations of mother earth. Making more money than we need, may hurt others. This has Asteya—What does it Encompass consequences. As someone says, “Wealth that is Asteya is the path of non-stealing. It is mentioned not redistributed will stagnate and poison us.” in the Sutras, Mahabharata, Upanishads and Vedas. To quote from the title of a well known novel by Asteya also entails not stealing other people’s Han Suyi, asteya is a “many splendored thing”. ideas, not demanding more attention from another That is, it has many wonderful aspects to it. It not person than what the situation requires. Practicing only consists of not stealing objects, but covers the asteya also involves not intruding on other people’s subtle facet of such habits acquired in the breathing time. That too is a form of robbing. If a person cycle wherein a person might be consistently taking comes late to class he/she may very well be deeper inhales than exhales. interrupting the others as he/she settles in, and ask questions that have already been answered. Tardy On a metaphorical level there is an understanding people are using up others’ precious time without that it is a way of taking more than is necessary asking permission. It is a kind of abuse. and of taking more than the fair share of what

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Guru Mantra— The Key to Liberation

AVINASH NARRIKKADAN

Understanding Mantras years living around him. In this period, the seeker antra has been defined as Mananat‘ and Guru evaluate and study each other. The Guru, Trayate Iti Mantrah’. This means, after observing the nature, likes, dislikes, and M“That which liberates upon constant vibes of the seeker’s being, decides the time when contemplation is Mantra.” Mantras are not invented the seeker is ready to start deeper practices. He or created. They are revealed in visions. They then whispers a mantra tailored for the disciple Chankaya’s Neeti—Part 3 represent eternal Truths in existence. Each mantra into the disciple’s ear as part of a ritualistic process has a rishi, who realized it first and shared it with called deeksha. This mantra is called the Guru the world. It also has a devata, or the intelligence mantra. The Guru mantra can be different for each that is represented by the mantra. The mantra and person depending upon the nature of the being. KRISHNAN NATARAJAN the devata are essentially one. When practiced The mantra is usually the name of a deity. The correctly the mantra leads to the realization of this path of enlightenment for the disciple is through mantra devata. The devata has a form. realization of oneness with the deity. hanakya Neeti is described in the How does the Character of a Person Our body consists of many koshas or layers (See Inculcating Guru Mantra into the Being Arthashastra (Science of Polity) of Manifest? link in reference 2 for the list of koshas). Each The mantra spoken thus by the Guru carries CChanakya, also called Kautilya. He was 1. You can guess the origin of a person through kosha vibrates at a different frequency for different spiritual energy that transforms the disciple’s the adviser and prime minister of the first known his behavior, his native place via his tone, beings. The sum of all these koshas can be called consciousness the moment he hears it. The emperor of the subcontinent, Chandragupta and his food intake by looking at the size our vibe. The mantras that one chooses should be effects can be quite significant and be seen Maurya of the Mauryan dynasty (ruled from 324- of his belly. A wise man educates his sons, constructive in relation to the being’s vibe. physically in some, depending upon their nature. 297 BCE). Although written for an era more than marries daughter to a high class family, From this point the disciple begins his Sadhana 2,350 years old, his observations are relevant exploits weaknesses of his enemies and does Types of Mantras or practice. He repeats the mantra with regularly even to this day. Chanakya Neeti is about friendship with people who do good deeds. Mantras can be broadly divided into four types appropriate steps of anganyansa, karanyasa understanding human nature and its weaknesses. 2. On doom’s day (प्रलय) the whole land is namely, siddham, sadhyam, susiddham and etc. This practice eventually flowers into the It can be used as a reference manual to face submerged under sea, but the men with ari. Out of these the ones that fall under ari are realization of the self. The mantra becomes the the realities of life. It must be understood that noble characters have a depth that many seas destructive. So there is much care to be taken key for his liberation. spirituality according to Chanakya, is not about together can’t fill. They stand still in every when adopting a mantra for spiritual practices putting a break on thinking. It is about thinking good or bad situation. like japa—or repeating the mantra. When the The constant repetition of the mantra first tenses the right things. 3. A stupid person looks similar in appearance spiritual seeker practices with a mantra that is the mind and then eventually collapses it, thus like any other human being in spite of being constructive and aligned to his vibe, eventually allowing the seeker to experience the no-mind Which family in this world has no blemish? Is an ass. the vibrations of the mantra activates the state. He becomes aware of his Advaitic (non- there any person who has never fallen ill? Has 4. A hard working person cannot remain poor; a non-mechanical parts of his brain raising his dualistic) identity and ultimately plunges into there been somebody who has not been troubled person who continuously remembers God is awareness to see the physical form of the nithyanandam or eternal bliss. by his bad habits? Can you point a person who unlikely to perform a sin; a person with peace mantra-devata in his vision. has lived happily throughout his life? i.e. Problems References: cannot quarrel. Similarly, a vigilant person 1. https://archive.org/details/LecturesOfDr.N.GopalakrishnanIn- will definitely arrive in the life of each and every has no fears. Initiation into Guru Mantra dianInstituteOfScientificHeritage one. One should accept this reality and move 2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kosha 5. A young person, with a handsome face According to Tantra Shastra a spiritual seeker 3. http://blog.shastranethralaya.org/?p=379 forward in life. Below is a summary of chapters 3 and of a higher family; if he or she remains should find a Guru and spend six months to four and 4 and captures these dimensions of life.

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uneducated, is always ignored like a husband and wife don’t quarrel. Goddess real friends, how is my home’s condition, what’s better to offer, then why should someone scentless flower. Lakshmi (Goddess of wealth) resides at such my earnings and expenditure, what are my offer you anything? There is a great difference 6. As a tree laden with scented flowers spreads locations. talents and weaknesses? These are the questions between being good to others and in being fragrance in the whole forest, a worthy son 8. The king orders once, a great scholar that a wise man asks himself all the time.” useful to others. brings glory to the whole family, community, speaks once, and daughters are married 6. If you don’t have a real friend, then nothing These lines tell us to think about the outcome and country. once. Therefore, one must be very careful much can be done about it. Either you have before doing anything. You can try the other way, 7. As a dried tree when catches fire burns regarding each of these. them or you don’t. Maybe you will get one in but in that case you won’t reach too far. the whole forest, so is a bad son born in a the future. At least you can try to maximize Bringing Up Children family. One good son is better than many Relation Between your Desires and your the number of your friends (with benefits). In troublesome sons in a family. The whole 1. Chanakya says to use cane over a child only addition to that, you must also work towards Situation family feels comfortable and safe with him. after he reaches 5 years of age. This can reducing the count of your opponents. It’s good to desire and desires definitely add 8. A person having no faith, no wealth and no continue for 10 more years. Once the son th to the worthiness of your life. The problem love simply cannot acquire salvation. He achieves his 16 year, all you can do is to Self-Evaluation and Skills Building arises when your desires and the situation are keeps on taking births and keeps dying. treat him as a friend. 1. It’s very difficult to perform an honest self- a mismatch. For example: It is perfectly normal 9. Sons, friends, kith and kin are capable of 2. When a dead son is born then the person evaluation. Most of the times we either over for a rich man to plan an expensive vacation, but distracting you. A wise man’s mind cannot be grieves for a few days, but an unworthy son estimate our potential or underestimate it. No not for a man living on daily wages and without diverted as he knows that his holy acts will is a grief for a lifetime. one can judge you better than yourself. Do enough savings. ultimately bring blessings to him and to his 3. Like there is no profit in raising a barren cow, not allow the external factors to guide you. a son without knowledge or devotion is also It’s your duty to: loved ones. For sure the non-wealthy man has all rights useless. a. Identify your area or areas of expertise. 10. As a mother takes care of every requirement to have such desires. It’s all about waiting b. Evaluate your level of expertise in those of her infants, similarly, a saint must deliver for the situation to turn favorable or creating Power of Knowledge areas. spiritual guidance to his followers. the favorable environment with own efforts. Knowledge is like the holy Kamdhenu (the c. Prepare the list of improvements to be Without any question the second option is more Divine Cow) and is like a tree that bears fruit in done. Making Decisions appropriate. Most of the things can be achieved 1. If you have an evil person on one side and a every season. In unknown territories it provides d. And to improve in reality. by mixing hard work with smart work. Hard-work snake at the other; better opt for the snake as protection and also fetches rewards for you. 2. Not your skills, but what matters most are alone, might prove insufficient. it will bite only for self defense but the wicked your accomplishments. History remembers The Environment in Which One Lives person will not spare any chance of hurting Real Friends men with great deeds, not those with great It is very difficult to bear pain that arises from a you. 1. It’s a boon to have a true friend in life. The skills. Acquisition of skills is important, but quarrelsome wife, living in a village with people 2. A wise king always accompanies wise ugly and basic truth is that most of the is an intermediate step towards achieving of bad character, a stupid son, consumption of councils who always stand by his side people in this competitive world envy you. something big. bad food, working for a wicked family, and by irrespective of the situation and place. Those who fall in same hierarchy are the 3. Improvement requires a certain amount watching a widowed daughter. This world is like 3. Expel an individual to save a family, a family ones who envy most. of time. The required span of time will a hell where a person cannot get three kinds of to save a village, a village for good of the 2. Everyone tries to excel high in life, but at the vary depending on what you are trying relief in form of a devoted wife, a good son, and country. same time they (most of them) are ever-ready to accomplish. The results might not be friendship of a noble person. 4. Excess of beauty resulted in the kidnapping to pull the leg of anyone trying to do so. A instantaneous, but provided you do it with of Sita, extreme ego of Ravana got him Principles of Life man must have discretion to identify people proper planning and dedication the situation killed, and unnecessary charity caused great Meditation is performed best when alone, and their motives. will change for sure. troubles to Raja Bali. Avoid extremes! education by two, singing by three, travelling 3. There are men who promise to help and 4. In summary: 5. As nothing is impossible for the Almighty, with four persons, farming with five, and battle also there are a few who will really help. The a. Have high expectations from life. similarly every place is within the reach of a with as many possible. biggest mistake one can do is to depend on b. Identify your strengths and weaknesses. trader, no land is alien for a knowledge - full help from someone who has nothing more c. Improve yourself and your skills. person, and none is stranger to a good and An important verse of Chanakya Neeti compares than a promise to offer. I have made such d. Fulfill your dreams by doing hard work in polite talker. the following with poison: mistakes and most probably you are not an a smart manner. 6. In case of natural disasters, famine and • a person whose knowledge is confined to books exception. unstoppable enemy invasion; one should • a meal without appetizer 4. Help from others should be considered as run away and save life i.e. save yourself for • living life in a community of poor people an added benefit. You are the only person on another day! whom you can rely most. A wise man will ask these questions, says 7. The best place to live is where fools are not 5. Most of the help is available in the form of Chanakya: “How is this situation, who are my honored; grains are stored safely, where mutual benefits. If you don’t have anything

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The Dramas swayamvara, (marriage of Indumati where she Abhijnanashakuntalam (“Of Shakuntala gets to select her husband among a lineup of Recognised by a Token”): This is a poetic drama, several princes). and is regarded as Kalidasa’s masterpiece. In this play, he describes “Eight forms has Shiva, lord saṃcāriṇī dīpaśikheva rātrau of all and Kings” where he shares that Dwi-isha yaṃ yaṃ vyatīyāya patiṃvarā sā| ie two gods, Shiva and Parvati, guard all eight narendramārgāṭṭa iva prapede forces of life. vivarṇabhāvaṃ sa sa bhūmipālaḥ|| — Raghuvaṃśa 6.67 EIGHT forms has Shiva, lord of all and king: The meaning given below gives you a vivid And these are water, first created thing; visualisation of what transpires as each prince is And fire, which speeds the sacrifice begun; given a pass over by Indumati: The priest; and time’s dividers, moon and sun; The all-embracing ether, path of sound; As Indumati walked past each prince and went The earth, wherein all seeds of life are found; to the next prince (in a ceremony of choosing And air, the breath of life: may he draw near, her husband), the prince’s face would turn Revealed in these, and bless those gathered here. bright and then pale. It was like watching a line of houses in the night as a dazzling lamp Vikramorvashiyam (“Urvashi Won by Valor”): This passed by. And every prince rejected while she is a 5-act play, which tells the story of the mortal sought a husband, darkly frowned, as turrets, king Pururavas and the apsara or celestial nymph bright. One moment with the flame from named Urvashi who fall in love and where torches caught, frown gloomily again and sink Urvashi is won by valor. in night. Malavikagnimitram (“Malavika and Agnimitra”): Kumarasambhava (“Birth of Kumara”): This work The Works of the Great Kalidasa The story is a light tale set in a harem, and, unlike describes the courting of the ascetic Shiva, who Kalidasa’s other works, it sustains a playful and is meditating in the mountains, by Parvati, the comical mood throughout. It tells the story of daughter of the Himalayas and the subsequent king Agnimitra the Sunga ruler of Vidisha, who birth of Kumara (Skanda/Subramanya/Muruga/ SHUBHANGI DESHPANDE falls in love with the picture of an exiled serv ant Karthikeya)—the war god. girl named Malavika. The work describes profound Hindu philosophy The Poems alidasa was an unparalleled poet and Kalidasa’s World View of the various forms of god and cycle of human Raghuvamsha (“The Dynasty of Raghu”): It dramatist in the Sanskrit language and Kalidasa believed in the varnashrama, which life. For example: narrates, the stories related to the Raghu dynasty, lived somewhere in the early centuries of is the social structure of four castes and four K namely Raghu, Dasaratha and Rama. In the Proclaim thy living majesty; the Common Era or CE. The power of his literary ashramas or stages of social life. He believed in prologue of Raghuvamsa, Kalidasa says, Thou dost create, and then maintain, works are such that even nearly two millennia dharma (religion), artha (goal/purpose), kama And last, destroyest all again. later, they are widely read, researched, discussed, (desire, wish, longing in Indian literature), ||Vagarthaviva sampriktau vagarthah st and debated upon in 21 century academia, and moksha (release from the cycle of rebirth pratipattaye | Jagatah pitarau vande Kalidasa displayed deep knowledge of geography theatre and media. impelled by the law of karma). He advocated parvathiparameshwarau || uncommon in those days. This is evident in his tyaga or sacrifice as opposed to indulgence, description of the Himalayas in his verses, It is said that Kalidasa was really a simpleton and and tapasya or austerity. Kalidasa also preferred In this sloka (verse), Kalidasa requests the divine a dimwit but a devout follower of the goddess tapovana (forest) instead of the palace. He was parents Lord Shiva and Mother Parvathi to “Far in the north Himalaya, lifting high Gadhkalika of Ujjain. Pleased by his devotion, it a Shiva devout and remembered Shiva in all his teach him the knowledge of language, speech His towery summits till they cleave the sky, was the goddess who bestowed on him the gift openings of works referred to as mangalacharan. and its meaning. The beauty of this poem was Spans the wide land from east to western sea, of imagination, poetry and genius, after which he He put society above the individual and would that Kalidasa infused two words together and Lord of the hills, instinct with deity.” took on the name Kalidasa, meaning “Servant of pray for world peace. oneness of this word became very powerful (e.g. Meghadhuta (“Cloud Messenger”): This long Kali”. Often referred to as the Indian Shakespeare, Lord Shiva and Parvati to become Shivparvati) he was one of the nine gems or navaratna of the Kalidasa gave us seven luminary works in the lyrical poem is a message sent by an exiled wise, and just Hindu king Vikramaditya. form of three dramas, two epics, one elegiac Kalidasa’s powerful narration comes through in yaksha in Central India to his wife in the poem, and one descriptive poem. the below verses describing princess Indumati’s Himalayas, his envoy being a megha or cloud.

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The storyline describes how the hero of the deer, cuckoo etc. He loved the Himalayas story uses the cloud as a dhuta or messenger for (the northern mountain chain) more than the conveying message to his beloved in the day and Vindhyaachal (the southern mountain chain). age where internet was not prevalent. • Kalidasa expressed his inner world and the external world equally well. A single glimpse of the verse where he tries to • Kalidasa’s work displayed his knowledge paint a picture for the meghadhuta to recognise of woman empowerment and equal rights his beloved whom he is missing, shows the they enjoyed in Vedic religion, which is beauty with which Kalidasa was able to describe amply alluded to in the Kumarasambhava, something that is so commonplace in our current Raghuvamsha, etc. internet-age. • Similarly, Kalidasa was well acquainted with “twaamaalikhyat pranayakupitaa dhaaturaagai contemporary sciences and arts, including shilaayaaha| politics and astronomy. His knowledge of maatmaanm te charanapatitam yavdichhami scientific astronomy, geography, human kartum| psychology and emotions and geometry are astraistravanmuhu upchitairdrushtiraalupyate manifested in his works. me| A Last Word krurastasminnapi na sahate sangamam nau As a last word, here is a beautiful poem from krutantaah| Kalidasa to give a glimpse into the mastery of Meaning: this great writer: when I try to draw your(beloved’s) picture “Even the man who is happy The Four Noble Truths of and show in it that I am bowing at your feet, glimpses something with a kawa (a type of chalk) on the rock; due or a hair of sound touches him Buddhism to emotional outbreak, my eyes get wet. The Krutanta or Yama himself does not wish to have and his heart overflows with a longing our meet even in the picture ... he does not recognize autama Buddha, after His enlightenment prescription or Patipatti and then the result of met his former companions (the five having practised or Pativedha. This is called the Rtusamhara (“The Exposition on the Seasons”): then it must be that he is remembering ascetics Kondanna, Baddhiya, Vappa, reflective pattern of mind that knows things as This describes the six seasons of Indian year and in a place out of reach G Mahanama, and Assaji) in a deer park at Isipatana they are. their changing aspects. shapes he has loved (modern Sarnath) in Varanasi. To them he The Four Noble Truths are: Characteristics of Kalidasa’s Works in a life before this delivered his first sermon—The Four Noble Truths. 1. Dukkha – suffering Can be summarised as below: the print of them still there in him waiting”. The Buddha set forth His teachings, which are 2. Samudaya – cause of suffering • Kalidasa is famous for his upamaa (metaphor). collectively called Dhamma, that which He 3. Nirodha – cessation of suffering and References Indian pundits say, upamaa kaalidaasasya 1. http://hinduismtoday.com/modules/smartsection/item. directly perceived and realised to be true and 4. Magga – the path leading to the cessation of (upamaa like Kalidasa’s). His upamaa were php?itemid=1404 common experience to all beings. These are suffering. 2. http://www.poemhunter.com/kalidasa/biography/ clear, complete and beautiful. 3. http://www.poetseers.org/spiritual-and-devotional-poets/ termed as noble because if understood and • His observations were sharp and subtle. He india/kalidasa/index.html practised to the full, they lead one to experience 1st Noble Truth—Dukkha 4. http://www.poetseers.org/spiritual-and-devotional-poets/ The Pali word Dukkha means “incapable knew both mother nature and human nature india/kalidasa/kalidasa-poems/index.html Enlightenment. in and out. He has a sound knowledge of the 5. http://www.poetry-chaikhana.com/Poets/K/Kalidasa/Exhorta- of satisfying, not able to withstand or bear In Theravada school an arahant means a scriptures. tiono/index.html anything, incapable of truly fulfilling.” There 6. The Hindu World Part I Written by: Benjamin Walker, 1968 perfected one, the one who understands the • His utprekshaa (simile) and artha-antaranyaas 7. http://www.sanskritebooks.org/2011/06/com- are three insights to Dukkha – there is dukkha; teachings of the Noble Truths. These Truths are (transfer of meaning) were also very beautiful. plete-works-of-kalidasa/ dukkha should be understood; and dukkha has 8. Interview and recording of knowledge of Sanskrit with my not absolute truths, and need to be reflected and been understood. • He used anupraasa (alliteration), yamaka (same Father C N Kalwanker, who is officer in Education depart- contemplated upon. His five companions became word repeated with different meaning), and ment in Indian Army the first arahants. The Buddha’s experiences as a prince and as a shlesha (pun; one word two meanings). wandering monk made him learn that there was • Kalidasa loved the softer side of nature. He Insights of the Four Noble Truths one thing which was common and that is “life is mentioned serene and beautiful ashramas, The Four Noble Truths have three insights each. full of suffering”. The Buddha’s most important river banks, gardens, palaces, bumblebee, First there is the statement or Pariyatti, then the teachings were focussed on a way to end the

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suffering he had seen in others. His discovery of tree grows with the help of roots of ignorance. a solution began with the recognition that “life is Just desire by itself does not cause suffering. Buddhist suffering”, this is the first noble truth. It is the grasping or craving of desires which causes suffering. The craving is nothing but Suffering can be physical or mental. Physical attachment of me, mine and “I” with the desires. forms of suffering are birth, old age, sickness, Stupas Thus, Buddha says that overcoming craving death, etc. So Buddha taught that physical and ignorance leads to true happiness and suffering is a part of life, recognise it and it enlightenment. cannot be avoided. Mental sufferings include feeling sad, loneliness, depression, separation The Third Noble Truth from loved ones, discomfort, irritation, lack of Nirodha means end of suffering. The three communication, unhappiness, poverty, and so aspects or insights of this truth are: there is on. Happiness also is real but impermanent - end of suffering, the end of suffering should be when happiness fades it leads to suffering. The realised, the end of suffering has been realised. person suffers when attachment to pleasure has not lasted. When the Buddha spoke about After Buddha realised the truth about suffering sufferings in life he also spoke about happiness. and its causes, he spent six years committed He taught his followers to look at the bigger to discovering a realisation about the end of picture of their life experiences. suffering. That and his experience of Nirvana were his ultimate achievements. This is what He Second Noble Truth—Samudaya discovered: there is an end to suffering. It can Samudaya in Pali means cause of suffering. happen to anyone, anywhere, here and now. The three aspects or insights of Samudaya are: The key to end all suffering is to remove all MA KAVYAROOPINI there is cause of suffering, the cause of suffering attachment to desires, ill will and ignorance. should be understood, the cause of suffering has The more people free themselves from desires, been understood. Stupa is generally known as a sepulchral Enhancing the reach of Buddhism ill will, and ignorance the greater happiness they monument—a burial place or a receptacle Ashoka, of the Mauryan dynasty, who was the After Buddha learnt that suffering is a part experience no matter what is going on around Afor religious objects. Simply put, a stupa first emperor to embrace Buddhism (ruled from of life, he realised he could not find a way to them. When they have completely removed is a dirt burial mound with a facade of stone. circa 269–232 BCE), created 84,000 stupas and end it without finding out what causes it. Then desire, ill will, and ignorance the Buddha Stupas are largely related to Buddhism. divided the Buddha’s ashes among them all. Buddha found out that the causes of suffering are says, they will experience the same supreme craving of desires or attachment to desires and happiness that He experienced, which is Nirvana. The earliest stupas contained portions of the While this could be an exaggeration as the stupas ignorance. Buddha’s ashes, and as a result, the stupa began were built by Ashoka some 250 years after the The Fourth Noble Truth to be associated with the body of the Buddha. Buddha’s death, Ashoka was responsible for There are three kinds of desires: Magga means the path leading to the cessation building many stupas all over northern India 1. Kama Tanha – desire for sense pleasure of suffering. This outlines the practical means by History of Stupas and the other territories under the Mauryan 2. Bhavan Tanha – desire to become, and which Nirvana (final bliss, Nibbana in Pali) can In prehistoric days, stupas were simply mounds dynasty in areas now known as Nepal, Pakistan, 3. Vibhava Tanha - the desire to get rid of be realised. It is the ultimate goal of Buddhism. of earth and stones (tumuli)—places to bury Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. Nirvana is also described as freedom from important kings away from the village. Later on, Contemplating on these a person frees himself conflict and selfishness - the eradication of these hemispherical structure containing relics Early Stupas from the attachment, the cause of suffering. craving, hatred and delusion. (śarīra—typically the remains of Buddhist monks Before Buddhism, great teachers were buried in Cravings are strong desires that people have or nuns) were used as a place of meditation. mounds. Some were cremated, but sometimes to please their senses and for experiencing The Buddha taught and demonstrated that they were buried in a seated, meditative position. life itself. Buddha taught that anything that The ashes of the Buddha were buried in stupas Nirvana can be experienced in our lives while The mound of earth covered them up. Thus, the stimulates our senses or our feelings are built at locations associated with important events living. For this he discovered the Eightfold Path domed shape of the stupa came to represent a cravings which leads to suffering. Ignorance is, in the Buddha’s life including Lumbini (where to Nirvana. person seated in meditation just like Buddha was Buddha says, the inability to see the truth about he was born), Bodh Gaya, where he achieved References: when he achieved Enlightenment and knowledge things as they really are. Enlightenment, Deer Park at Sarnath where 1. What The Buddha taught by Walpola Rahula of the Four Noble Truths. 2. Buddha by W.Bennet Austin –Singapore. he preached his first sermon sharing the Four Craving is like a tree with many branches - 3. buddhanet.net Noble Truths, and Kushingara, where he attained The base of the stupa represents his crossed legs branches of greed, anger, bad thoughts, and samadhi. The choice of these sites and others were as he sat in a meditative pose called “padma so on. The fruit of this tree is suffering. This based on both real and legendary events.

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asana” or the lotus position. The middle portion 3. You will become like a sun, rising in the is the Buddha’s body and the top of the mound, world, with perfect senses and a beautiful where a pole rises from the apex surrounded by body. a small fence, represents his head. Before images 4. You will be able to remember past lives and of the human Buddha were created, reliefs often see future lives. depicted practitioners demonstrating devotion to 5. You will be able to extensively listen to the a stupa. Dharma without forgetfulness. 6. The “Stainless Beam” sutra states - ‘All Importance of Stupas in Buddhism negative karma and obscurations, including The stupa represents Buddha’s pure and holy the five uninterrupted negative karmas, are mind, Dharmakaya, which is something that purified even by dreaming of a stupa, seeing is ever present, and each part of the Stupa a Stupa hearing the sound of the bell of a directs one to the path to Enlightenment. As the stupa and even for birds and flies etc., by importance of the stupa grew, so did its functions being touched by the shadow of a stupa. and meanings. In addition to being considered 7. The sentient beings will always be protected the living presence of the Buddha, his protective by the Buddhas, who always pay attention powers, and living energy, they were also a to guiding them to achieve complete pure site of rituals and ceremonies. Their presence Enlightenment. They abide in the irreversible eventually attracted other constructions including stage. monasteries. 8. It is explained by Shakyamuni Buddha in the Sutras, that it is extremely powerful to build The pilgrimage activity around the stupa had a Stupa for those who have passed away, as an important impact on the social history of it immediately changes a suffering rebirth Buddhism. Merchants, artisans, and monks alike into a fortunate rebirth with the opportunity enjoyed the benefits of the income generated by to meet the Dharma. the activity resulting from the emblematic stupas. 9. It can also heal those with serious diseases. The religious function of the stupa was still 10. There is no question that it accumulates central, but market activity and social interactions extensive merit and brings success and revolving around it were equally important for happiness. Therefore, dedicate for your the communities where stupas were present. ancestors, family members and friends who The Benefits of Building a Stupa have passed away or who are sick, and for Building a stupa is a very powerful way to purify the happiness of yourself and your family in negative karma, and to accumulate “punya”, this and future lives.” merit. In this way one can have realizations of the path to Enlightenment and be able to do perfect The Journey to Enlightenment Buddhists visit stupas to perform rituals that work to liberate suffering of all beings, which is help them to achieve one of the most important the ultimate goal of every life. goals of Buddhism: to understand the Buddha’s The following ten benefits of a stupa were teachings, known as the Four Noble Truths (also explained by Lama Thubten Zopa Rinpoche in known as the dharma and the law) so when they Chenrezig Institute, Australia, in September 1994. die they cease to be caught up in samsara, the 1. If you make 1,000 stupas, you will become a endless cycle of birth and death. great ‘Wheel-turning Holder of the Wisdom Source: Teachings’ (Mahayana Secret Mantra) 1. https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/art-asia/begin- and have clairvoyance knowing all the ners-guide-asian-culture/buddhist-art-culture/a/the-stupa 2. http://www.ancient.eu/stupa/ Buddhadharma. 2. After death, without being born in the lower realms, you will be born as a King.

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Talakaveri The Ganges of the South

denotes the link between Kaveri and Saint the head of the small boy. But the boy escaped Agasthiyar (or Agasthya). It is also marked by and Agasthiyar gave chase. Finally, the boy a small temple, and the area is frequented by vanished and Lord showed Himself to pilgrims. There are two temples, a Shiva temple Agasthiyar. Agasthya was aghast at the realisation with a rare and ancient Shiva Linga, and another that he had just tried to knock the head of Ganesha temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This temple Himself. As atonement, he knocked his own head has a holy Ashwantha tree where, according with both of his clenched fists. to legend, the —Brahma, Vishnu and The link between Kaveri and Ganesha also Maheshwara, gave darshan to Agasthiyar. extends to Srirangam as well, in Lord Ganesha’s River Kaveri originates as a spring feeding the role in setting up the Ranganatha temple tank called the holy Kundike, which gains great there. The temple at Tirumukkudal Narasipura prominence on specific days when bathing in the (confluence of Kabini (aka Kapila river, Kaveri and Kundike is considered very auspicious. The waters invisible Spatika Sarovara (Crystal Lake)) is also then flows underground to emerge as the river dedicated to Lord Agastheeswara. MA NITHYA SATYAGJNANANANDA SWAMI some distance away. The temple was renovated in recent times, capturing the breathtaking view of Tulasankramana for Talakaveri the Brahmagiri hills that surround it. On Tulasankramana day—the first day of Makara Masa in Hindu calendar, which normally falls in mid alakaveri is the birthplace of the Kaveri of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, but there is one Ganesha Liberates Kaveri from Agasthiyar’s October—thousands of pilgrims flock to the river’s river and is popularly also referred to as section of people to whom the river is very Kamandalu birthplace to witness the rise of the fountainhead, the river Ganges of South India. Located sacred. They are the erstwhile warrior clan called T The legend goes that the Kaveri river was when water gushes up from the spring at a in the Brahmagiri hill near Bhagamandala, Kodavas who are today well settled plantation held in a kamandalu (a pot of sacred water predetermined moment. The Tula Snanam (sacred Karnataka, India, it is one of the seven sacred owners of the region of Kodagu or Coorg, in held by sages) by Saint Agasthiyar. Vinayagar bath in the Tula month) is observed across pilgrim rivers or Sapta Sindhus of the Hindu scriptures. It Karnataka state. To the Kodavas, River Kaveri is (Lord Ganesha) took the form of a crow and towns of River Kaveri’s banks. is around 1,276 meters above sea level. Talakaveri worshipped as Goddess Kaveriamma, is the most perched on the kamandalu of Agasthiyar when is about 8 km away from Bhagamandala and sacred waters and Talakaveri their most important Legend also has it that every year on he was meditating. When Agasthiyar realised 48 km from Madikeri. However, there is no worship site in the whole world. Tulasankramana day Goddess Parvati appears this, he shooed away the crow. But the divine permanent visible flow from this place to the in the Kundike as the sacred Theerthodbhava. crow tipped the kamandalu and toppled it. Out main rivercourse except during the rainy season. Religious Significance of Talakaveri Also from Talakaveri, steps lead up to the nearby poured Kaveri which started flowing. The crow Talakaveri has great religious significance Brahmagiri peak where the Sapta Maharishis are disappeared and in its place stood a small boy. Sacred River of the Kodavas attached to it. The main deity of the temple said to have performed a special yagna. Pilgrims There may be a lot of political turmoil and fight in Talakaveri is Goddess Kaveriamma. Lord Agasthiyar thought that the boy was playing some and tourist can take the steps to the hill, to get a over the waters of the Kaveri between the states Agastheeswara is also worshipped here, which prank and clenching both his fists, went to pound view of the blue misty hues of the Brahmagiri.

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JAGANNATH JULY 06, 2016 Life is Bliss

MA NITHYA SHAKTIROOPANANDA

s a teenager living in the United States, I have many wrong ideas of what a Guru can do used to ask my parents a lot of questions, for an individual. In addition to this, even Hindus Awith the mindset of a Westerner. My dad have started doubting what living Hinduism can would ask me to wear bindi, and I would ask do for them. “Why?” They would bring us to the temple, and Ever since I met my Guru Paramahamsa again, I would go “But Why?” Mom would do Nithyananda, and ever since I have been following puja, and I would ask “Why?” Hinduism, my life is filled with abundance. I realised My mind was filled with whys, looking at all the a simple puja can put me in the highest ecstasy of traditions that we Hindus practice. They were feeling one with the divine. I realised vegetarianism unable to answer the questions that were within helps me consume only foods which contain me, and I was left thinking that all that I consider positive energies, hence keeping me in an elevated as tradition is simply done due to various space. I realised that just shifting my cognitions superstitious beliefs. can help me manifest health, wealth, and desires. I realised that the spiritual powers about which I It was not till I met my Master, Paramahamsa read in the various scriptures are actually possible. Nithyananda (whom we fondly address as Not just for the saints living in the Himalayas, or the Swamiji), when I discovered the richness of saints from tens of thousands of years ago, but for Hinduism, the Vedic Tradition. you and me. The first time I met Him, was on my television at When a non-Hindu enters a temple, he sees home. Dad was watching one of his videos, and magnificent architecture and stones. When a I was wondering why he was constantly playing Hindu enters a temple, he sees God. Same place, these videos from a young man with a thick but the eyes through which they view the temple Indian accent who talked very slow for hours is completely different. together. My logic was not ready to accept Him, but his words just attracted me. My Guru has given me His eyes. To see the world, to see Hinduism through His eyes. He It was only when I went to a satsang, when I micromanages the context with with I see every realised the richness of the space he puts me into. object, the context with which I undertake every He puts me into such a powerful, blissful space action, thus taking me on a beautiful journey that I had never imagined. And he explained from human to divine. the context of every action that we practice in Hinduism, from the way we dress, to what we put Having Paramahamsa Nithyananda as my Guru is on our face, to the festivals we celebrate. Every my greatest luxury. Just as Arjuna chose Krishna, action has such a profound reason. Every action over Krishna’s army, I can say that when I have had been designed by the ancient Rishis to shift Him as Guru, he rides the chariot of my life. us to the highest context of Enlightenment. I feel that just like the old me, context is what is Many Hindus do not think having a Guru is lacking for every Hindu. I hope this luxury goes to essential in life. Due to negative paid media, they every being on the planet.

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