SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2020 (PAGE 3) BOOK-REVIEW Introduction to our ancient wisdom Impressive Hindi poetry in e-book Ashok Ogra Each chapter ends with 'Tales of Inspiration'- fur- O.P Sharma ther illuminating the text with an interesting story. Abu Rayhan al-Buruni (973-1048), an Iranian The message conveyed is that kindness and service to scholar and polymath, who arrived in India in the sec- mankind is a greater virtue than having visits to holy Name of e-book: Inqilab, collection of Hindi poems ond decade of the eleventh century was one of the ear- places, and such selfless people are closer to god. Author : Rachana Vinod liest foreign scholars to have studied the Upanishads "Dharma (noble conduct and duty) is the only kin who Year : 2020 and the Bhagavad Gita, along with Vishnu Purana, never abandons a person." "There is no Dharma than Matsya Purana, Vayu Purana and Aditya Purana. He kindness." A collection of poems in Hindi from ver- was greatly fascinated by Indian philosophy, as he was The author relates an interesting story of satile Rachna Vinod, who has already writ- by Greek philosophy, and he came to believe that, in Chanakya keeping two oil lamps. He would use the ten books of poetry and short stories in Dogri, many respects, the two were alike. one bought at official expenses when doing official Hindi, Urdu and English, has come out with Max Muller (1823-1900) German scholar of com- work. And light the other lamp when engaged in yet another book, this time in e-book form. It parative language, religion and mythology, was domestic/ personal chores. is available on internet which can be assessed instrumental in editing and translating into English This acts as a reminder for the high degree of and is available anywhere and anytime free of some of the most ancient and revered religious and integrity and probity expected from those holding cost. This is in spirit of low cost and paperless philosophical texts of Asia. His special areas of inter- positions of power. This is so true and relevant for our est were Sanskrit philology and the religions of India. present day politicians and bureaucrats. To Chanakya publishing and readership. Now with grow- One wise man put it aptly-India is a paradox, con- "There is no penance like peace, no happiness like con- ing Digital Technology a new transformation stant images of contradictions. Hardly anything tentment, no disease like greed and no religion like is taking place across India, including two makes sense if one goes by logic, and yet at another mercy". UTs of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. level, all seems to fall into place. Hence, if one has lived Proficient in many languages, Devendra Bajpai Keeping up with the new technology in the in India for a week, one can easily write a book; if one displays a tremendous understanding and command world of printing and publishing this mode is has lived here for a month, she or he can manage to of both our ancient scriptures and also Urdu poetry. getting popularity. It must be remembered write an article; but if one makes a year-long stay or Product of IIT and after a distinguished career in the that the latest technology is now being adopt- more in this country, one can barely write a para- Indian Air Force where he retired as Group Captain, ed gradually for betterment and she has, graph- that is how enormously complex India is. he has devoted himself to education and currently using this technology, brought out this e- Therefore, it is rather surprising that Thomas works for the reputed Apeejay Education Society. book of 18 poems in Hindi 'Ritu Rajas Ran- Macaulay (1800-1859) who introduced English edu- The warmth in the book comes from author's love cation in India should have the temerity to remark "a of the past and the clarity and precision with which he bankur Raag'. that the selection is not religious one even though he Simple, Stylish single shelf of a good European library was worth the quotes from religious texts. However, the author takes explores and selects the key gems of ancient wisdom whole native literature of India and Arabia. The intrin- care not to include verses in praise of any deity. to guide us through the journey of life. Not an easy job It may be mentioned that Rachna Vinod, grandfather Mulkraj Saraf, considered as sic superiority of the Western literature is indeed ful- The book takes the reader across the frontier of to perform considering the diversity in our country. having command over the language, writes in "Father of Journalism" as he was the first to ly admitted by those members of the committee who time to our civilization - on a voyage of discovery. This Even Ramayana when translated in Kannada sounds philosophical yet very simple and easy Hin- bring out a first registered and regular news- support the oriental plan of education." exploration is presented under various themes such different from the Ramayana translated by Tulsidas. di. The way she uses her love for words in paper,Ranbir, Urdu weekly during 1925 from Perhaps nobody reminded Macaulay of the Latin There are hundred Kannada versions of Ramayana. as : Devotion to God, Life & Spirituality; Human Body expressing varied emotions, the power of Jammu in the then Jammu and Kashmir proverb: "From The East, Light." In one version, there is the usual dialogue between & Health; Education, Wisdom & Ignorance; Prosper- words comes out clearly in her writings. Puri- State. Her father, Omparkash Saraf, a reput- Ancient Indian Civilization is the oldest and is dis- ity / Poverty; Charity/ Denial/ Accumulation of Ram and Sita. Ram tells Sita that she is very delicate, ty and beauty of Hindi language is easily felt tinguished by its profound thought and wisdom con- that she cannot bear going to Vanvas. Sita ed journalist and legislator, was one of the few Wealth; The Virtuoso / Despicable & Their Company; in her poems which make compelling effect tained in our scriptures referred above. While other replies:"What are you saying, my dear? I have read and perhaps first in Jammu and Kashmir who Lust/ Greed/ Desires; Conduct, Character & Commu- on any reader to take journey into self. ancient civilizations reached their zenith and disap- nication; Success & Perseverance/ Lethargy; Deeds & other Ramayana's, and in all of them, Sita always donated his body for experimentation in the peared from the pages of human history, the heritage Destiny; Humility/ Pride, Arrogance & Envy; Family- accompanies Ram….' Anybody can relate to rythm and flow of Government Medical College, Jammu. She is of ancient Indian Civilization continues in its living Parents, Spouse & Children and Friends & Enemies. In this context, one is tempted to ask the learned words... whether a philosophical rythm in also perhaps first few in Jammu to have got tradition in India. Few excerpts: author what is so secret about our ancient wisdom that 'Geet Pahle Bana Ya Sargam'; unconditional published her e-book containing choicest This perhaps explains the phenomenal success of - 'Surrender to God is the only salvation, not unnec- is not known except that it is presented in different devotion in 'Shiv Mahima Chhatrachchaya', Hindi poems. the great epics - Ramayana and Mahabharata- when essary and elaborate rituals.' and, at times, divergent versions. staunch devotee in ' Tripurari Trinetradhari', This electronic books or e-book is easily telecast over Doodarshan in late 1980s. Millions of Also, whether some, if not all, quotes in the book - 'Like a blind person has no use / value for a mir- complete oneness with the divine love in accessible and available on internet. It can be people in middle class homes, glued to the idiot box has counterpoints. ror, similarly an insensible person can hardly be 'Koun Ho Tum', reader can relate with the read wherever you want... just in your device. every Sunday morning, imbibed for the first time, in enlightened by scriptures and good literature.' Moderately priced, it is worth a buy and has small doses, the story of the Ramayana and Mahab- archival value. The author has taken great pains to musical expression in every sentiment. ' Ritu Rajas Ranbankur Raag' is available on - 'A person should not be too honest. Straight trees Mark the quality of Rachna's poetry in the harata. But both these serials and also Chanakya failed are cut first and honest people are screwed first.' translate the original Sanskrit shlokas, quotes Amazon and in Kindle version too. It is avail- to draw too hard and fast a line between fact and fic- - 'There can be no happiness for a being nor can its etc..into Hindi and English. This will undoubtedly poem titled 'Ek Raat Ka Musafir' of which a able free on google play store on the follow- tion. No fault of the producer/director as the mass mind know any peace even in a dream so long as enhance its appeal to readers who may not be famil- stanza follows: ing link which readers will surely enjoy and media cannot survive except by simplifying and, at it does not relinquish desire, which is an abode of iar with Sanskrit language. Pertak Megh Par Barse Sawan where they can also give their review and times, distorting things to make them more seductive sorrow.' As an author, Bajpai's success lies in introducing Shiv Shakti Ka Madhur Sangeet comments on the site: than they are in real life. us to the philosophical symbolism of the ancient wis- Deh Mai Basti Badthi Preet - 'Education is the best friend. An educated person https://play.google.com/store/books/de Against this background, the recent publication of is respected everywhere. Education beats the dom without mediating and or imposing his own val- Antermaan Tak Pyas Boojha tails/ 'SECRET WISDOM FROM ANCIENT INDIA' by beauty and the youth.' ue judgement. He allows the imagination of a reader Badthi Chahat Aadik Badha It is believed this e-book containing Devendra Bajpai is a welcome addition. It contains a - 'Knowledge is the true organ of sight, not the eyes.' to absorb and interpret in their own way. He is fully (The poet says that the nature amply collection of quotes, words of wisdom, morals and - 'Calmness, gentleness, silence, self-restraint and aware that reading is by no means a passive act. It is speaks about the Creator who is perfectly con- impressive Hindi poetry will set a new trend human values as mentioned in our scriptures. always an invitation to engage in conversation. That purity: these are the disciplines of the mind.' trolling each and everything in the universe) in book publishing with much higher and The author draws from wide, diverse and rich is what made a wise sage remark that a conversation The author admits 'all my life I have found great Significantly, Rachna Vinod, has dedicat- wider readership who can access it anywhere, sources: delight in the repeated readings of ancient epics and is so much more than words: a conversation is eyes, anytime and also much more wider reader- Goswami Tulsidas, Acharya Chanakya, Maharishi smiles, the silences between the words. That is what ed this book to Mata Swarasati, the goddess scriptures. What started as an enjoyment of the ship of the author/writers. I have gone Bhartrihari, Arya Vidur, Hitopadesh, Panchantra and many tales of valour, courage, righteousness and SECRET WISDOM FROM ANCIENT INDIA aims to of learning and literature. This shows her through this e-book and expect that this book Lord Krishna - so that a reader gets to understand and other such exciting elements, upon closer readings achieve. It makes for a fascinating reading!!! attachment to knowledge and literature. will evoke much more interest among read- appreciate the hidden gems of ancient wisdom. The led to far nobler insights- a generally more philo- (The author is a noted management & media Meaningful Poetry gems mentioned in the book mostly relate to intellect, sophical understanding of life and our purpose in educator, and currently works for reputed Apeejay Rachna comes from the illustrious Saraf ers. propriety and philosophy. The author clarifies that this vast universe.' Education Society) family having many firsts to its credit. Her (Starline Syndicate Service)

SACRED SPACE LIFE STYLE Sannyasa in its true essence! Get Wealth through Ashta Lakshmi Chetan Prabhakar ten about Yoga in his book 'The tioning, become your true selves, live fear- Suresh S Duggar Autobiography of a Yogi' while reiterating lessly, reach a state of equanimity and Is it important to become an ordained the words of Dr. C.G. Jung, 'Every reli- eternal bliss and enjoy yourself and your The eight directions in Vastu are called monk or formal Sannyasi to tread on the gious or philosophical practise means a loved ones. the Ashta Lakshmi and from these eight path of spirituality or Sannyasa? Let us psychological discipline, that is, a method Spirituality is wonderful and sannyasa directions only, you get the true wealth. understand what is Sannyasa as per the of mental hygiene. The manifold, purely is really meaningful, because it just means Therefore, these are also known as Ashta Bhagavad Gita. Verse 18.3 of the Bhagavad bodily procedure of Yoga also means that we have to give up the activities that Digpal meaning the Devta or Lord of the Gita provides as follows: mental hygiene which is superior to ordi- are based on material desire, and during Eight Directions and Ashta Lakshmi, i.e., 'The giving up of activities that are nary gymnastics and breathing exercises.' this times of corona pandemic, when the the wealth coming from the eight direc- based on material desire is what great Therefore, what Yoga means is a psy- work is slow and the profits are less, we tions. learned men call the renounced order of chological discipline and that is to up can take an opportunity to try giving up Now the first and foremost wealth is life (Sannyasa). And giving up the results keep mental hygiene and spirituality or the activities that are based on material Clarity that we get from the North-East, of all activities is what the wise call renun- yoga is actually to upkeep our mental desires to have the taste of Sannyasa and the second wealth is Connectivity that we ciation (tyaga)' hygiene, which is why, it is beyond our Yoga. Most of our activities are based on acquire from the East. The third wealth is As per the above verse, leaving one's physical bodies. Our physical bodies are fear of achieving and losing materialistic family and going to a secluded place or meant to deteriorate and end with time, things, which creates constant fear, and that of Money which we get from the joining a formal sannyasi organization is however, if taken care, mind has a nature fear creates delusion, unwarranted South-East, the Vastu Zone of Cash or not what Sannyasa means. What it truly to grow and go beyond our physical bod- actions and the result is desperation. This Fire. means is; giving up the activities that are ies. As it is said that mind and/or con- period of slow down really gives us an The fourth wealth is that of Fame based on material desires. sciousness is as old as the Universe, so opportunity to become a sannyasi/yogi by which we get from the South. The next The Buddha has said, 'One is forever on taking care of mind and consciousness is adapting a spiritual/yoga practice suitable comes the South-West zone which gives us the way, yet has never left home. Another Skills & Expertise. The North-West gives has left home, yet is not on the Way. Strength & Support. The North gives Which one deserves to receive the offer- Opportunities. Thus, if you are able to cre- ings of humans and devas? ate these eight types of wealth from the Hence, we are not required to leave our eight directions, then only your Life homes and go to some solitary mountain becomes truly precious! or join some formal spiritual organization Ashta Lakshmi or ashram to be a Sannyasi or Spiritual. Traditional Vastu Shastra mentions Spirituality is to know our true selves, to about Ashta Lakshmis or the 8 Lakshmis transcend all dualities and reaching a state residing in the 8 directions. These Ashta Now the first and foremost wealth is Clarity that we get from of equanimity. It is to establish connection Lakshmis are situated as follows: with our soul/spirit. Hence, we can be Aishwarya Lakshmi in the East the North-East, the second wealth is Connectivity that we spiritual or sannyasi where we are and do Dhanya Lakshmi in the South East acquire from the East. The third wealth is that of Money which not need to go anywhere. Adi Lakshmi in the South we get from the South-East, the Vastu Zone of Cash or Fire. We should not fall in the trap of one- Dhairya Lakshmi in the South West sidedness, which means we should never Gaj Lakshmi in the West patience. South West is the crucial zone dents with opportunities to generate think that to be spiritual; we have to leave Vijaya Lakshmi in the North West that makes or breaks a family. When the wealth and income. Dhan Lakshmi our family, occupations and other things. taking care of life beyond our present to us. Dhan Lakshmi in the North members of the family fail to keep patience, ensures that residents are able to generate Spirituality is coming home to yourself bodily manifestation. Verse 6.18 of the Once we are able to tread on the path Santan Lakshmi in the North East peace and tolerance levels run low in the enough wealth and opportunities for a and not going somewhere and getting Bhagavad Gita provides as follows: of spirituality, we will see the reality, and Aishwarya Lakshmi of the East household, which eventually take the smooth living. lost. Just be where you are and practise 'When the yogi, by practise of yoga, the first reality is that we are merely pup- Aishwarya Lakshmi resides in the East. spirituality. That is what the message of disciplines his mental activities and pets in the hands of an ultimate power shape of major family problems. Only Santan Lakshmi of North East She provides the residents with a good when patience is maintained among resi- What bigger wealth than children! all the Buddhas is: to be what you are and becomes situated in transcendence- who is creating, planning and executing social recognition. Hence, whenever there dents, long term relationships can survive. What greater joy in life than children! living a life that is balanced and not one- devoid of all material desires-he is said to everything seamlessly and in abundance. is an imbalance in the eastern sections of Gaj Lakshmi of the West The Santan Lakshmi that resides in sided. Aptly said by the Buddha, 'One is be well established in yoga.' Look around you and see, how this ulti- the home, the residents fail to be well- The Lakshmi of western direction is the North East ensures that the family is on a solitary peak and is unable to tread Do whatever you want to do but try to mate power plans; the sunset and sunrise; known and renowned socially. They are known as Gaj Laxmi. She rides an elephant blessed with love and happiness of chil- the path. Another one is at a busy cross- establish yourself in Spirituality or Yoga phases of moon; growing trees and the unable to gain high status socially. Despite dren. When this zone is disturbed and roads yet is free from preferences. Which and that is the highest purpose of our jungles; blooming the buds into flowers; contributing well to the society, the resi- called Anjan. The zone of the west in a imbalanced, problems of child birth are one is ahead, which one is behind?' lives, and to establish ourselves in Yoga ripening the fruits and vegetables; feeding dents do not receive due recognition and home is responsible for providing the res- reflected. This is the zone of Jupiter. Tra- Therefore, it is not necessary to leave or Spirituality or Sannyasa, we have to go the birds and animals and; scheduling social status. A balanced Surya Devta of idents with a life of comfort and luxury. It ditional astrology believes that blessings everything and become an ordained beyond the concept that to follow it, we birth and death which is taking place in the eastern zone ensures the family enjoys is said that Gaj Lakshmi has the power to of Jupiter are important to have children. monk or sannyasi to tread on the path of have to leave our present circumstances, each and every moment. a good status. give complete happiness and comforts to spirituality. We can practise spirituality our home, occupation, family and When you will have this understand- Dhanya Lakshmi of the South East the residents, Gaj Lakshmi has the pow- If you observe, the Ashta Lakshmis just by being lay practitioners. Only friends, on the other hand, if spiritual dis- ing, you will automatically give up activi- Dhanya Lakshmi , residing in the ers that equals eight Laxmis combined. work in harmony with each other to keep requirement is to find a suitable path or cipline or yoga practices are followed ties that are based on material desires and South East, ensures that the residents are West is synonymous with the planet Sat- life smooth and stable. Aishwarya Laksh- Yoga. properly, it will bring us closer to our come out of the mistaken belief that you well provided with food supplies. Food urn. Saturn is synonymous with the num- mi of the East teams up with the Gaj Lak- In the Bhagavad Gita, there are three family, friends, relatives, occupation and are the doer, and then, you will give the supplies in the past were equivalent to ber 8. This Lakshmi holds the power of shmi of the West and together to ensure types of spiritual practices or Yogas on worldly affairs because following a spiri- thread of your life in the hand of that cash and liquidity in today's times. This is Ashta Lakshmis combined. In addition to that the residents enjoy a high status with which human beings can tread and they tual practise or yoga is taking care of our Ultimate Power who is planning and creat- the reason why, when there is imbalance balancing this zone, a picture of Ashta Lak- comforts and luxury. Dhanya Lakshmi of are Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and Dhyana mind, which is being totally ignored by ing wonders, miracles and abundance; in this zone, the residents face challenges shmi in this zone is considered auspicious. the South East teams up with the Vijaya Yoga. To follow a path or yoga practice lay people like us thinking that if we fol- and you will start taking actions without in terms of cash and liquidity. Vijaya Lakshmi of the North West Lakshmi of the North West to ensure that which is best suited to you, initially, you low spirituality or sannyasa or adyatam, worrying about the fruits of those actions Adi Lakshmi of the South Vijaya Lakshmi resides in the North the cash generated in the South East is may need to tread on all the paths and we have to leave our current circum- and as a call of your higher duty and Adi Lakshmi represents inherited West. She ensures that the residents are available as support as and when needed. find out yourself which one is best suited stances, our homes and families. That is a unique purpose; which is a sure sign of an wealth. The definition of wealth is not just well supported in every manner and walk Dhan Lakshmi of the North joins hands to you. For instance, Meera Bhai followed narrow approach and it is also called spir- extra-ordinary and blissful life beyond all limited to cash and jewels. In a much of life that leads to their smooth success. with Adi Lakshmi of the South and ensures the path of Bhakti Yoga, Buddha follow itual escapism. kind of miseries. That is what happens broader sense, it can be understood as the Success comes only when one gets com- that the money that is generated through the path of Dhyana Yoga and Raja Janak On the other hand, if we follow a spir- when we truly walk on the path of inheritance of culture and values. The bal- plete support from all walks of life. Or else, opportunities is handled well and passed followed the path of Karma Yoga. For the itual or yoga practice, it will show us a Sannyasa and become a true Sannyasi & a anced zone of Yam Devta that resides in in absence of lacking support, success can- to generations in form of wealth, values purpose of this article, we are focusing on path where we can have meaningful rela- Yogi. Verse 6.46 of the Bhagavad Gita pro- the southern zone, ensures that family val- not be sustained. Rudra and Rajyakshama and culture. The Santan Lakshmi of the Dhyana Yoga which is considered to be tionships, we become peaceful and truly vides that 'A Yogi is greater than the asce- ues and culture are retained and upheld in the North West ensure that the resi- North East in combination with Dhairya the highest form of Yoga. happy individuals just by being where we tic, greater than the empiricist and greater by the family residents. dents enjoy the regular flow of support as Lakshmi of the South West ensures that Now, let us also understand what does are. Such is the path of Right Mindfulness than the fruitive worker, Therefore, O Dhairya Lakshmi of the South and when needed. once a family is blessed with children, they it mean by Yoga and the Yogi? It would be or Dhyana Yoga. It connects yourself to Arjuna, in all circumstances, be a Yogi''. West Dhan Lakshmi of the North receive a healthy and a happy environ- helpful to produce herein what Venerable your inner self, which gives you courage to (The author is a Mindfulness Coach at Dhairya Lakshmi of the South West The Lakshmi of the northern direction ment to flourish and grow. Sri Sri Parmahansa Yogananda has writ- off load the societal and cultural condi- Sachetan-The Mind Gym) provides the residents with the wealth of is Dhan Lakshmi. She provides the resi- (The author is Mahavastu Acharya)