Bhakti

Iyengar Yoga

2010-08-28T19:31:00.000-07:00

I first got introduced to yoga in the year 2000, exactly ten years ago. I attended the beginner's class conducted by the Vivekananda Kendra Prakashan in Bangalore. I really liked it but because of my then situations could not attend the advanced levels. I was practicing yoga asanas once in a blue moon. Now, being pregnant, I wanted to get myself some exercise, so chose the prenatal yoga and joined the class at a yoga center that follows Iyengar Yoga. Though I have heard of iyengar yoga, did not know much about the person who is behind it. The 92 years old Padma Shri Padma Bhushan award recipent B.K.S. Iyengar is the founder of this yoga and has been practicing since he was 15. Iyengar has researched Sage Patanjali's yoga sutras and has simplified them for the present human. Patanjali is known to be the compiler of yoga sutras. However, the 5th century tamil literature 'Thirumular Thirumandiram' says that sage patanjali learnt from Guru Nandhi Deva! OK, I came across couple of impressive videos of BKS Iyengar's on youtube.

I had been having some pregnancy related back aches and leg cramps for the last one month. Just after two classes of practicing iyengar yoga, my back ache is gone and leg cramps have reduced. Groin muscle pull with pricking sensation is the only after effect of my yoga practice which might be because of lack of exercise for a long time. Kim Lacy, a certified Iyengar instructor is my teacher. She has also directly attended BKS Iyengar's classes in India. I also found out that she has met Amma/Ammachi! She said she met Amma in Seatle, WA program and was telling her experience. I felt that I have gone or in other words I have been sent to the right center, right teacher at the right time.

Satsang at our new house

2010-07-11T22:19:00.000-07:00

Amma in Dallas

2010-07-02T20:22:00.000-07:00

I am very happy that I met Amma (Mata Amritanandamayi) this year - 10th consecutive year! Every meeting is a memorable one. However, Germany program is my most favorite of all because: I had a lot of direct interaction with Amma; the venue was only about 1 hr by direct tram from where I lived; the program was for three full days; did lot of seva; good interaction with people; made some dear friends; got engaged with Mahesh by the hands of Amma.

2001 - Madurai
2002 - Madurai, Boston (Andover)
2003 - Boston (Andover), Rhode Island retreat
2004 - Mannheim (Germany)
2005 - Mannheim (Germany)
2006 - Mannheim (Germany), Amritapuri
2007 - Mannheim (Germany)
2008 - Chennai, Iowa, Chicago
2009 - Iowa
2010 - Dallas

First, I met Amma in Madurai with my parents. The tenth time in Dallas with my husband and our baby growing inside me. We drove to Dallas by car. We left on Friday evening, stayed overnight at Oklahoma City. Reached Dallas late in the afternoon on Saturday. Around the same time my cousin sister Nimmi and her family arrived Dallas from Houston. Everyone of us took some rest for couple of hours and then had dinner at a South Indian restaurant.

After about 6 hours sleep I woke up at 5.15 am the next day & was waiting for Mahesh to get up. We drove for 15 minutes to Hyatt Regency at DFW airport. We reached Hyatt at 8.45 am. Mahesh and myself were supposed to decorate Amma’s seat with flowers an hour before Amma arrives. So, we hurried selecting flowers, cutting, removing leaves and thorns. We chose 9 red roses, 8 double color - pink & white carnations, baby’s breath and ferns. We finished in about 15 minutes. It looked so beautiful. As always, Amma arrived on time at 10 am. After meditation and prayers Amma sat for darshan. We felt so honored and fortunate for decorating Her seat. I am glad that Nimmi and her family got the chance to meet Amma personally for the first time. We decided to go for darshan in the evening. In the evening, we attended the satsang, meditation, prayers and bhajans. I was fully satisfied hearing Amma sing, I last heard Amma sing in 2007. Amma’s bhajans were so powerful, the music was vibrating my whole body. Then, Amma started darshan. Usually, I either do some seva or sit closer to Amma and just watch her. But this time, I was too tired that I left the hall and sat on a nice sofa in the lounge. Did not feel like eating dinner, felt little dizzy and had just a glass of fresh juice. We had to wait for another 4-5 hrs for our turn/token number, that would be after 2 am! I did not want to make my pregnancy as an excuse to get into the special line. Meanwhile, Mahesh went on talking to devotees, swamijis as well as to Amma. He came to me in a shortwhile and said that Amma is calling me, I did not believe it. It seems Amma asked him where I am and when he said that I am sitting outside, She asked me to get me in. I went in and got the darshan immediately. They actually provided me a stool for support which I did not use. Amma caressed my navel area and blessed us with flowers. Leaving my heart in the hall we left to our hotel soon. Usually, I stay awake till Amma leaves the hall at 3 am or 4 am. My body did not support me this time. Mahesh also told me that Amma asked him when he is going to return to India (She is asking this for the second time). She also mentioned about a school under construction in Rameshwaram that needs more funding for completion and asked Mahesh to do his possible help.

I was still tired the next day - Monday. Whatever, I did not want to miss the prasad seva. We finished the prasad giver seva and were ready to leave the hall to start our journey back to Kansas. When we went to say bye to Amma from a distance, we were given an unexpected darshan for the second time. Usually, if got a darshan once we cannot have again, so that the new ones are given opportunities as well as a way to manage the crowd. Amma asked how we guys are doing and blessed each of us with an apple. All I asked Amma during the hug is to seed some spirituality onto the unborn and that (s)he should not be too materialistic. We departed Dallas afternoon on Monday, took a break at Oklahoma City, stayed overnight at Wichita and arrived Lawrence late in the morning on Tuesday.

We have planned to meet Amma in San Ramon next year, if God wills.

Media bias in India

2010-03-13T14:01:00.000-08:00

One of the hot topics in media at the moment is about the video of Paramahamsaa Nithyananda (the so-called spiritual Guru) involved in sex scandal. I have never heard of this person before. However, I was shocked to hear this news. Although I appreciate the media which brought the fake spiritual Guru into light, I am unhappy with the media. Media is totally biased.

During our great great grandparents times, there were several Saints, especially in Tamil Nadu. And then, during our great grandparents or grandparents days, there were great bhakti dramas and movies for spiritual boost. To name few...Arunagirinathar, Auvaiyaar, Karaikal ammaiyar, Karnan, Meera, Pattinathar, Thiruneelakandar. In this century, a century of Science and Technology, spirituality has declined tremendously. Unfortunately, the bhakti – “selfless” devotion to God is almost missing.

Some claim to be an avatar, some claim to be lineage of a past enlightened soul, some perform magic and claim to have supernatural powers. However, there are few “true” spiritual Gurus who do not claim such things. But unfortunately, the media ignore these true souls. Media always crave to light the negative ones but never the positive ones. Why not the media do a research about one of the “good” ones? They will not. Because, the media get much more fame and money when they cover a “negative” one. Let me take an example of my own Spiritual Guru – Sri Mata Amritanandamayi – Ammachi here. Below are the pictures of few of the many missed positive newses which were never covered by media.

Once as a President, Dr. Abdul Kalam invited Ammachi to Rashtrapati Bhavan (President's house), why did not the media try to find out about the long conversation which they had? In 2002, Ammachi received the Non-violence award at the United Nations, why did not the media cover it? Just two weeks back, when MA Math received Pazhassi Raja National Royal Award from President Pratibha Patil, why did not the media cover it? Are not Dr. Abdul Kalam, United Nations and Mrs. Pratibha Patil revered ones? Those were not covered just because it involves a “Spiritual Guru”?! If at all media cover it, they write it in one line or broadcast it for few seconds. Whereas they elaborately cover the story of “fake” spiritual gurus. AND people end up having the negative ones in their head forever, seeing real gurus as fraud. This is how people get brainwashed by media. It is so sad that even a highly educated person do not realize this.

Most of the common people in India either believe “all” the saffron cassock ones as “good” or see all of them as “bad”. People cannot accept the fact that both the categories exist in India/World. Whom to be blamed? Not just the people's brain but also the media.

Thoppu karnam

2009-03-15T15:17:00.000-07:00

Amma Satsang

2009-03-08T22:43:00.000-07:00

"Satsang" is a Sanskrit word; 'Sat' means 'being' or 'truth' and 'Sang' means 'association'. Satsang together can be translated as "association with a self-realized soul". Satsang helps as an initial stage or foundation of one's Spirituality.

Today, we had Amma satsang for the first time at our home (see pictures below). It went well. It was an energetic satsang for us and for others too.

Below is a description of our Kansas City Satsang as explained my Melissa, a member of KC satsang:

Our monthly satsang is an opportunity for us to come together to enjoy the Grace of Amma through our social connection and our classical and yet simple spiritual practices. Our program starts with a video or audio clip of Amma’s teachings, followed by time-honored chanting of sacred names, singing or simply sitting in the presence of “soul stirring” songs or bhajans, hearing readings of Amma’s teachings, performing Arati, a beautiful ritual of purification to the Divine Mother, meditating and praying for peace in the exquisite energy and grace generated through the previous activities.

The wonderful vegetarian dinner that follows is informal and optional. It’s a time for relaxing and enjoying delicious food, and as always, traversing a wide range of topics.

Ammachi - Is she a God?

2008-09-03T15:56:00.000-07:00

Is she a God? someone asked me. I felt it as an absurd question.

Anyways, the same question was once put directly to Ammachi!
Interviewer: Do you see yourself as God, and the people as your devotees?
Amma: My Gods are these people [devotees]. I believe in loving them and serving them. If they see me as God, well, perhaps it could be because that is their vision of God.

Here are couple of videos of Amma covered by the media in the United States.

Tulasi

2008-07-21T10:21:00.000-07:00

INTRODUCTION
In Sanskrit, tulnaa nasti athaiva tulasi-that which is incomparable in its qualities, is the Tulasi. For Hindus, it is one of the most sacred plants. Worshiped as a form of Lakshmi, it is very dear to Lord Vishnu. No worship without offering the Tulasi to Him.

TULASI MANTRAS
Tulasi Pradakshina Mantra (circumambulation chant)
Yani kani ca papani
Brahma-hatyadikani ca
Tani tani pranasyanti
Pradakshina pade pade

Tulasi Pranaama Mantra(Salutatory chant)
Vrndayyai tulasi-devyai
Priyayai kesavasya ca
Vishnu-bhakti-prade devi
Satyavatyai namo namah

THE STORY OF TULASI
It is said that Tulasi devi was the devoted wife of Shankachuda, a celetial being. She believed that Lord Krishna tricked her into sinning and cursed Him to become a stone(Shaligrama). Seeing her devotion and adherence to righteousness, the Lord blessed her to become the holy plant Tulasi to be used in His worship. He declared that all offerings would be incomplete without the Tulasi leaf-hence the worship of Tulasi.
Lord Krishna's wife, Satyabhama, once weighed Him against all her legendary wealth. The scales did not balance till His devotee Rukmini placed her humble offerings-a single Tulasi leaf along with all the wealth on the scale. Thus the Tulasi showed that even a small object offered with devotion means more to the Lord than all the wealth in the word.

BENEFITS OF TULASI
Tulasi gives spiritual as well as material benefits. Medicinal benefits of Tulasi include promoting long life, increased stamina(contains calcium and phosphorous) and reduced blood sugar levels. Its leaves contain Vitamin C-crushed and mixed with honey, it cures common cold, headaches and fever. Mixing with ginger cures stomach disorders. It is good for the eyes(has vitamin A) and cures inflammation, heart disease, poisoning and malaria. Its oil is an antiseptic and insect repellent. Paste made from its roots soothes insect bites and stings. It is an antidote to scorpion and snakebites.
Tulasi bestows spiritual and other benefits like righteous and happy family life,peace and prosperity and power of divine vision. It removes evils of all Vaastu flaws in a house and purifies the atmosphere. Its leaves do not decay after plucking and can be stored in containers for long periods.

Recipe for herbal tea to cure colds
Ingredients:10-12 Tulasi leaves, black pepper to taste, jaggery powder, one inch ginger piece.
Take 2 cups of water and add the items. Boil the water till it becomes half the original quantity. The tea in syrup consistency is ready to be consumed.

Mata Amritanandamayi-Ammachi-Amma

2008-07-18T09:42:00.000-07:00

INTRODUCTION
Today is Guru Poornima. On this day, I would like to post a brief summary about her. Amma was born in Kerala in 1953 as a daughter of a fisherman.In India she has been known to individually hug over 50,000 people in one day, sitting sometimes for over 20 hours. I admire her teachings and unconditional love for the people and I respect her a lot. I call her 'my Guru' though I am not perfect in discipline. When invited to speak at the United Nations, she is recognized as a "preeminent religious leader". The news media have dubbed her "the Mother of Compassion" because of the extensive humanitarian charities she has launched. The press have also nicknamed her "the Hugging Saint", because of the loving embraces she has given tirelessly to thousands everyday for the last 35 years. It is estimated that Amma has already hugged over 25 million people! Around the world she is identified as "a living Saint". Wherever she goes the crowds that flock to her only seem to grow as people experience something unique in her presence. To observe what Amma does, it becomes obvious that she exhibits nothing of what we would call "a personal life". Sleeping less than two hours per day, she is the untiring servant of all people, dedicated to removing human suffering.

Amma lives at the Amritapuri ashram in India along with two thousand residents who come from all over the world. The ashram serves as a spiritual center. These centers provide an ideal environment to meditate, perform selfless-service supporting Amma's innumerable humanitarian activities and gives the inner peace.

HUMANITARIAN ACTIVITIES
The humanitarian activities goes a long list. In brief, it includes feeding the poor, housing, orphanage, monthly pension, old age homes, speech and hearing improvement school, free legal aid (1008 lawyers) to the poor and disadvantaged in India, disaster relief, charitable hospital, hospice, medical outreach programs and Green friends program for the preservation and protection of the environment. Apart from these are the schools, institutes and university that teaches most up-to-date technologies as well as classes on yoga and meditation.

I would like to mention some of the services in detail:

Feeding the poor: feeding over 2 million poor people through various centers each year.

Housing for the poor: As of January 2007, successfully completed 30,000 homes and has further expanded the new goal to 125,000 homes for the poor.

Charitable hospital: Not-for-profit 1,300-bed hospital provides free care to the poor. From 1998 to 2006, 751,098 patients received free treatment.

December 26th 2004 Asia tsunami relief: Amma pledged 23 million USD for tsunami relief efforts. By the end of 2006 the estimated amount spent on tsunami relief work by the M.A.Math has doubled from $23 million to $46 million.

It was the first NGO in India to complete tsunami homes (handed over its first batch of 18 houses on 13th April, 2005).

As of February 2007, has completed the construction of 4500 tsunami homes in Tamilnadu and Kerala and 100 homes in Sri Lanka.

Additionally, has served > 7.5 million meals throughout Tamil Nadu and Kerala; clothing for 90,000 people; cash for 16,000 families; 700 fishing boats, motors, fishing nets; provisions for 10,000 families; job camps for 2,000 adolescents and vacation camps for 10,000 children.

October 8th 2005 Kashmir earthquake relief: has adopted and rebuilding 3 worst hit villages in the area.

August 23rd 2005 US hurricane Katrina relief: donated $1 million to Bush-Clinton Katrina fund.

July 26th 2005 Mumbai flood: medical care for 50,000 survivors and $1 million worth of medicines were distributed.

January 26th 2001 Gujarat earthquake: within one year, three entire villages had been completely rebuilt, including 1,200 earthquake-proof homes. Plus, medical aid, food, and clothing.

INTERNATIONAL FORUM
Amma has been regularly invited by the international organizations to address the issues of religious differences, environmental issues and for establishing peace.

Parliament of Religions, Chicago, 1993 (Swami Vivekananda spoke in 1893)

UN 50, New York,1995

UN World Peace Summit, New York, 2000

UN World Peace summit, Geneva 2002 (received the Gandhi & Luther King Award for Non-violence)

Parliament of the World's Religions, Barcelona, 2004

Interfaith Center of New York, 2006 (received the James Parks Morton Interfaith Award)

I would like to quote the following from her speech,

"Contentment and happiness depend solely on the mind, not on external objects or circumstances. Happiness really depends on self-control. Both heaven and hell are created by the mind. Even the highest heaven turns into hell if the mind is agitated; whereas, even the lowest hell will become a blissful abode for a man endowed with a peaceful and relaxed mind..."

Peace is not just the absence of war and conflict; it goes well beyond that. Peace must be fostered within the individual, within the family and within society. Simply transferring the world's nuclear weapons to a museum will not in itself bring about world peace. The nuclear weapons of the mind must first be eliminated..."

Hindu Mantras

2008-04-14T15:34:00.000-07:00

Mantras are sets of sacred syllables for calling God, the divine being which were revealed to ancient rishis or seers of ancient India during deep meditation.

Like music, the resonance of these mantra sounds attracts the mind and leads it to an inner experience. The literal meaning of mantra is secondary.

There are three types of mantras : mantras which gives tamsic(magical power), rajsic(strength and courage), and sattvic(spiritual knowledge and wisdom)qualities.

Aum(OM) is the basic mantra of all Sanskrit mantras. It refers to A(jagrat), U(swapna), and M(sushupti) , referring to the physical(waking state), astral(dreaming state) and causal(deep sleep state) existence respectively. The silence which follows each utterance of Aum suggests the state of Absolute Being, or Brahman, which is the source and end of everything.

DAILY MANTRAS
Early Morning Mantra :
Karagre Vasate Lakshmi Karamadhye Sarasvati
Karamule Tu Govinda Prabhate Karadarshanam
(Lakshmi resides in the fingers, Sarasvati in the centre of the palm and Lord Vishnu around the wrist. It is therefore auspicious to look at your hand first thing in the morning.)

Before stepping on the floor- Mantra:
Samudravasane Devi Parvatastanamandale
Vishnupatni Namastubhyam Padasparsham Kshamasva Me
(The ocean is your clothing, the mountain, your bosom, I am about to step on You, so please forgive me.)

Surya namaskar-Mantra:
Hiranmayena Patrena Satyasapihitam Mukham
Tattvam Pushannapavrinu Satyadharmaya Drishtaye
(By a golden lid the mouth of the vessel of truth is covered. Remove thou that veil so I may have a vision of the true reality)

Then, with each consecutive step of the surya namaskar, chant the corresponding mantra:

1. Om Hram Mitraya Namah (Prostration to Him who is affectionate to all)
2. Om Hrim Ravaye Namah (Prostration to Him who is the cause for change)
3. Om Hrum Suryaye Namah (Prostration to Him who induces activity)
4. Om Hraim Bhanave Namah (Prostration to Him who diffuses light)
5. Om Hraum Khagaya Namah (Prostration to Him who moves in the sky)
6. Om Hrah Pushane Namah (Prostration to Him who nourishes all)
7. Om Hram Hiranyagarbhaya Namah (Prostration to Him who contains everything)
8. Om Hrim Marechaye Namah (Prostration to Him who possesses rays)
9. Om Hrum Adityaya Namah (Prostration to Him who is God of Gods)
10.Om Hraim Savitre Namah (Prostration to Him who produces everything)
11.Om Hraum Arkaya Namah (Prostration to Him who is fit to be worshipped)
12.Om Hrah Bhaskaraya Namah (Prostration to Him who is the cause of lustre)

Daily Ablutions-Mantra:
Gangech Yamune Chaiva Godavari Sarasvati
Narmade Sindhu Kaveri Jalesmin Sannidhim Kuru
(imagining it to be water from all the holy rivers)

Bhojana (Food Mantra):
Om Brahmarpanam Brahma Havir Bhramagnau Brahmana Hutam
Brahmaiva Tena Gantavyam Brahmakarma Samadhinah
(The act of offering is Brahman. The offering itself is Brahman. The offering is done by Brahman in the sacred fire which is Brahman. He alone attains Brahman who, in all actions, is fully absorbed in Brahman. As we chant this prayer we are offering the different types of food to Brahman This is 24th verse from the 4th chapter of Bhagavad-Gita)

Trisandhya (Evening Mantra):
Shivam Bhavatu Kalyanam Aayurarogyavardhanam
Mama dukha vinashaya Sandhyadipam Namo Namah

Kshamapanam (Before sleep Mantra):
Karacharanamkritam va Kayajam Karmajam va
Shravananayanajam va Manasam va Aparadham
Vihitam Avihitam va Sarvametat Kshamasva
Shiva Shiva Karunabdhe Sri Mahadeva Shambho
(O Great Lord, today I might have committed many mistakes through my hands, legs, ears, eyes, or thoughts. For whatever mistakes I have committed, by my action or inaction, O Auspicious One, Ocean of Compassion, please forgive me)

MANTRAS FOR PEACE
Om asato ma sad gamaya
tamaso ma jyotir gamaya
mrityor ma amritam gamaya
om santi santi santihi
Lead us from untruth to Truth,
From darkness to Light,
From death to Immortality,
Om Peace, peace, peace.

Om sarvesham svastir bhavatu
sarvesham santir bhavatu
sarvesham purnam bhavatu
sarvesham mangalam bhavatu
om santi santi santihi
May perfection prevail on all,
May peace prevail on all,
May contentment prevail on all,
May auspiciousness prevail on all,Om Peace, peace, peace.

Om purna mada purna midam
purnat purnam udachyate
purnasya purnam adaya
purnam eva vasishyate
om santi santi santihi
That is the Whole, this is the Whole,
From the Whole, the Whole arises,
Taking away the Whole from the Whole,
The Whole remains,
Om Peace, peace, peace.

Om saha navavatu saha nau bhunaktu
saha viryam kara vavahai
tejasvi nava dhitamastu
ma vidvisha vahai
om santi santi santihi
OM Lord, protect us as one,
Nourish us Lord, as one.
Let us flourish in Thy strength as one.
Let our knowledge, O Lord, be changed to Light and
Change our hate to love,
OM Peace, peace, peace.

MANTRA FOR WISDOM
Om Bhur bhuvah svahah
Tat savitur varenyam
Bhargo Devasya dheemahi
Dheeyo yonah prachodayaat
We meditate on the glory of the Creator,
Who has created the Universe,
Who is worthy of Worship,
Who is the embodiment of Knowledge and Light,
Who is the remover of all Sin and Ignorance,
May He enlighten our Intellect.(This is the Gayatri Mantra, it belongs to the third kind of mantra-sattvic. Gayatri Mantra is the sixteenth sutra in the third mandala of the Rig veda).

MANTRA FOR GURU
gurur brahma gurur vishnuhu
gurur devo mahesvaraha
guruhu sakshat parambrahma
tasmai sri gurave namaha
The Guru is the Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Siva
Guru is the Supreme Absolute Itself
My obeisance to the blesses Guru.

Hindu Festivals

2008-04-13T14:30:00.000-07:00

Festivals, observances, and traditional worship have an inner divine significance, at times have more than one significance. Apart from being the adoration of the Divine, they commemorate stirring events in history, they are allegoric when interpreted from the occult standpoint and, lastly, they are deeply significant pointers and revealing guides to the individual on his path to God-realisation.

The festivals are celebrated to prove the immanent divinity in humanity. The festivals of India are pregnant with spiritual significance. Unfortunately, people today give importance to only external rituals and observances, ingnoring their inner meaning and eternal values. Here I have written about some of our Hindu festivals and their significance, the knowledge from great books and websites.

GANESH CHATURTHI
o Ganesha has many names, Ganapathi, Vighneshwara, Vinanyaka, Gajaanana, Lambodara and Ekdanta. The main name is Ganapathi.o What does the term "Ganapathi" signify? "Ga" means "Buddhi"(Intellect), "Na" means "Jnana"(Wisdom).

o He is the Lord of the "Ganas"(Spiritual entities). The Ganas are the embodiment of the "Jnanendriyas"(the organs of perception) and of "Karmendriyas"(action). The mind is the master of these "Indriyas" senses. The master over the mind is the "Buddhi" (intellect) and "Siddhi"(achievement or Self-Realisation). Hence, every human being should acquire control over the mind.

o The elephant-head of Ganesha is a symbol of wisdom, understanding, and a discrminating intellect that one must possess to attain perfection in life.

o The elephant is a symbol of might and magnitude. The elephant is highly intelligent. The elephant is also known for its fidelity and gratitude.

o The "Mooshika"(mouse) is also a symbol of the sense of smell. The mouse moves about following the direction of the "Vaasana"(smell-desire). Ganesha is the one who has the mastery over "vaasanas" (desires and ignorance). Mooshika is also a sign of night, which signifies darkness. The mouse is a symbol of darkness. Because Ganesha has control over darkness, he is described as the rider on a Mooshika. He is the one dispels darkness ans shed light on the world. The darkness is nothing but the ignorance. Without recognising this underlying significance of Ganesha's mastery over ignorance and desires, people merely wonder how a large being like Ganesha could ride on a tiny creature like a mouse.

o Ganesha is the master of every kind of knowledge. "Vidhya" (learning) is related to the "Buddhi"(intellect). It is not mere scholarship. Familiarity with book is not knowledge. One's entire life is a continuous process of learning. Any process of inquiry is related to learning. But, basically our inquire should be concerned with finding out what is transient and what is permanent. This is true knowledge.

o Ganesha was born on the fourth day of the month of Bhadrapad, the sixth month of the Hindu lunar calendar. There is also astronomical support, the constellation with the appearance of the elephant head is brightly visible on this very night.

o Holy days like Ganesha Chaturthi should be celebrated only to remind ourselves of sacred truths and to sanctify our minds and time accordingly.

o If we want to lead a life of happiness, free from troubles and difficulties, and to be successful we have to make proper use of our inherent intelligence and wisdom. Realise that we have a conscience that is our guide in acquiring mastery over the senses.

o Ganesh Chaturthi also gives health significance. People make some special offerings to Ganesha as food offerings. These preparations are made entirely by using steam instead of heat from a burning stove. Combining rice flour with jaggery and til seeds, balls are prepared which are cooked in steam. In Ayurveda this edible is accorded a high place for its curative properties. The jaggery in the eddible is a remedy for various ailments. The til seeds serve to purify the ahrteries. It also helps to improve the vision. These edibles cooked in steam are also easy to digest.

o Ganesh Chaturthi, symbolises health, bliss, peace, wisdom, prosperity and many other things. Unfortunately, this truth is not recognised by most people.

DURGA PUJA
o Durga Puja is the greatest Hindu festival in which God is adored as Mother. Hinduism is the only religion in the world which has emphasised to such an extent the motherhood of God. It is proper to look upon God as mother.

o Durga represents the Divine Mother. She is the energy aspect of the Lord. Without Durga, Shiva has no expression and without Shiva, Durga has no existence. Shiva is the soul of Durga; Durga is identical with Shiva. Lord Shiva is only the silent witness. He is motionless, absolutely changeless. He is not affected by the cosmic play. It is Durga who does everything.

o Approach Her with an open heart. Lay bare your heart to Her with frankness and humility. Be as simple as a child. Kill ruthlessly the enemies of egoism, cunningness, selfishness and crookedness. Make a total, unreserved, and ungrudging self-surrender to Her. Sing Her praise. Repeat Her Name.

o Worship Her with faith and unflinching devotion. Perform special worship on the Navaratri days. Navaratri is the most suitable occasion for doing intense spiritual practices. These nine days are very sacred to the Divine Mother. Plunge yourself in Her worship.

o In Devi Sukta of the Rig Veda and the Kena Upanishad, you will find the details of the Divine Mother.

o The worship of Devi, the universal Mother, leads to the attainment of knowledge of the Self. The story in the Kena Upanishad known as the "Yaksha Prasna", supports this view. Goddess Shakti thus sheds wisdom on Her devotees.

o Truly speaking, all beings in the universe are Shakti-worshippers, whether they are aware of it or not, for there is no one who does not love and long for power in some form or other. Physicists and scientists have now proved that everything is pure, imperishable energy. This energy is only a form of divine Shakti which exists in every form.

o The Divine Mother fought with him for nine nights (the demons have extraordinary strength during the night), and killed him on the evening of the tenth day, known as the Vijaya Dasami. The learning of any science is begun on this highly auspicious day.

o It was on this day that Arjuna worshipped Devi, before starting the battle against the Kauravas on the field of Kurukshetra. Sri Rama worshipped Durga at the time of the fight with Ravana, to invoke Her aid the war. This was on the days preceding the Vijaya Dasami day. He fought and won through Her Grace.

o Right way to celebrate the Dussera is to make honest efforts to destroy the demon of our ego, and radiate peace and love wherever we go. Let us all resolve to become men of sterling character. Let us resolve and act. The story of Sri Rama is known in almost all parts of the globe, and if we but succeed in following even a hundredth part of His teachings, we shall make our lives more fragrant than the rose and more lustrous than gold!

o The first three days, which mark the first stage or the destruction of impurity and determined effort and struggle to root out the evil tendencies in your mind, are set apart for the worship of the destructive aspect of the Mother. Once you have accomplished your task on the negative side, that of breaking down the impure propensities and old vicious habits, the next step is to build up a sublime spiritual personality, to acquire positive qualities in place of the eliminated demoniacal qualities.

o This pleasanter side of the aspirant's Sadhana is depicted by the worship of Mother Lakshmi. She bestows on Her devotees the inexhaustible divine wealth or Deivi Sampath. Lakshmi is the wealth-giving aspect of God. She is purity itself. Thus the worship of Goddess Lakshmi is performed during the second set of three days.

o Once the aspirant succeeds in routing out the evil propensities, and develops Sattwic or pure, divine qualities, he becomes competent to attain wisdom. He is now ready to receive the light of supreme wisdom. He is fit to receive divine knowledge. Therefore, to propitiate Saraswathi, the giver of knowledge, is the third stage.

o Nowadays many ignorant seekers aim straight at the cultivation of knowledge without the preliminaries of purification and acquisition of the divine qualities. They then complain that they are not progressing on the path. How can they? Knowledge will not descend until the impurities have been washed out, and purity is developed. How can the pure plant grow in impure soil?

o Therefore adhere to this arrangement; your efforts will be crowned with sure success. This is your path. As you destroy one evil quality, develop the virtue opposite to it. By this process you will soon bring yourself up to that perfection which will culminate in identity with the Self which is your goal.Then all knowledge will be yours: you will be omniscient, omnipotent and you will feel your omnipresence. You will see your Self in all. You will have achieved eternal victory over the wheel of births and deaths, over the demon of worldliness. No more pain, no more misery, Victory, victory be yours!

DEEPAVALI
o The festival, Deepavali(“Deepa” meaning light and “Avali”, meaning a row) teaches a sacred inner meaning to humanity. No other element in this world is as significant as light. It is the light that shows us the way dispelling the darkness. It is because of the light that man is able to attend to his daily duties.

o The flame of a lamp has two significant qualities. One is to banish darkness; the other is a continuous upward movement. Even if a lamp is kept in a pit, the flame is directed upwards. The ancients have taught that the upward movement of the flame denotes the path to wisdom and the path to divinity. However, the external light can dispel only the external darkness, but not the darkness of ignorance in man.

o If you want to light a lamp, you need a container. You have to fill it with oil and place a wick in it. You need a matchbox to light the wick. Only when you have all the four accessories, can you light the lamp. This lamp dispels the external darkness. Similarly to dispel the darkness of ignorance, you need to have 'vairagya' (renunciation), the container; Love, the oil; one pointed concentration, the wick and 'tattwajnana' (spiritual wisdom), the matchbox. Only when you have all these four can you light the lamp of wisdom.

o What is the inner significance of Deepavali? The capital of the kingdom ruled by Narakasura was known as 'Praagjyotisha Puram'. The name consists of four syllables: Praag, Jyothi Sha, and Puram. Praag means before, Jyothi means light, Sha refers to forgetting. The inner meaning of this name is that the inhabitants of this city had forgotten the ancient and eternal light (Atma Jyothi).

o Narakasura, the king of Praagjyotisha Puram had totally forgotten the Atmic principle, identifying himself with the body, leading a life in darkness of ignorance. One has to develop attachment to the Self, not to the body. Attachment to the body is the main cause for all sufferings. One who travels towards ignorance is 'Naraka' and the one who travels towards wisdom is Nara, the human.

o To travel along the path of wisdom one needs to develop sacred thoughts, sacred words and sacred actions. Lord Krishna does not like to kill the wicked Himself. So Krishna devised a master plan to kill Narakasura. As Narakasura was very strong both physically and mentally, Krishna decided to weaken him gradually by subjecting him to fits of anger. The modus operandi was to provoke Narakasura and when he would come chasing in a fit of anger, Krishna would withdraw.

o Anger is the main cause for man to lose his physical and mental powers. If one gets angry, one loses the energy obtained from the food partaken over a period of three months. When Narakasura lost all his strength due to his anger, Krishna made Sathyabhama kill him. God has His own master plan for everything because He is the master of everything.

o When Narakasura was killed all those who suffered under him were overjoyed. Having led a life of darkness till then, both internally and externally, they celebrated the occasion by lighting lamps.

o There is significance in lighting lamps. The flame of one lamp can light the whole array of lamps. That one lamp symbolizes the 'paramjyothi '(supreme effulgence.) The others symbolize the 'jivana jyothis' (light in individual selves). Deepavali is celebrated in order to teach this truth to the world.

o People celebrate this festival by bursting firecrackers signifying the victory of good over evil. People go from house to house to exchange gifts and sweets. They try to forget old grudges and wipe the slate clean.

o The inner meaning underlying the festivals should be rightly understood. On each festival day people have a sacred bath early in the morning and wear new clothes, keep their houses and surroundings clean. Thus the festivals teach us the importance of internal and external cleanliness.

o The Vedas declare, 'Anthar Bahischa Tat Sarvam Vyapya Narayana Stithaha' (God is present within and around). So one has to be pure both internally and externally. It is the water that helps to keep our body clean. But its love that keeps our heart clean. We should celebrate the festivals in full realization of their inner significance.

o Life without the knowledge of Self is useless, just as a tree without root, a tree without fruit and a fruit without juice. If we do not know our true identity, what is the use of taking a human birth?

o 'Know thyself and you will know everything'. This is the most sacred teaching of all the festivals. Think of God. Constant contemplation on the Divine will free you from all worries.

MAHA SIVARATHRI
o The festival Sivarathri(“Siva” means auspicious and "Rathri" is night/darkness) is observed on the night of the fourteenth day of the dark half of the moon in the month of Magha, in Tamil Masi.

o It is said that, on Sivarathri, it is possible to get full control over the mind by contemplating on God.

o The moon is the presiding deity of the mind. There are sixteen aspects for the moon or the mind. Of the sixteen aspects of the moon, on Shivarathri, fifteen are absent. The remaining one aspect can be merged in the Divine by diverting the mind towards God. If you sing his Glory throughout the night wholeheartedly, even the remaining one aspect can also be merged with the Divine. On this day it is possible to get full control over the mind by contemplating on God. It is a night where bad qualities are discarded and divine love is cultivated. Hence it is considered as an auspicious day.

o It is on Sivaratri, when Siva, the Supreme Wisdom, takes the Linga form for the benefit of the seekers.

PONGAL
The word “Pongal” means a “special dish” and "Ponga" means “boiling” or “overflowing”. Pongal is celebrated for three days. This festival is celebrated in South India, a major festival of Tamil Nadu. It is a Harvest festival or a thanks-giving festival. People thank the nature such as rain, sun and the cattle.
Bhogi Pongal: On this day before sunrise a bonfire is lit in front of the houses and old, worn-out, dirty things and all the useless household things are thrown into the fire. The burning of all that is old is symbolic of the starting of a fresh new year. At the spiritual point of view, it is to the cleansing our mind of materialistic thoughts and to tread the path of truth, love and purity from this holy day onwards. This day is celebrated in honor of Lord Indra, the ruler of clouds and giver of rains.
Surya Pongal: On this day, the sun is worshipped and thanked for its kindness. The sun, symbolizes wisdom, divine knowledge and spiritual light. We should realize this and come out of the darkness of ignorance and delusion.
On this day, the special dish, “Pongal” is prepared. The pot in which it is cooked is beautifully adorned with turmeric leaves and roots, the symbols of auspiciousness. When the milk and jaggery, in which the rice is being cooked boils over, everyone at home stands round the pot and shout “Pongalo Pongal!” with joy. The cooked Pongal, along with Sugarcane is offered to the Sun God as a Thanksgiving gift.
Mattu Pongal: On this day, the cattle, especially the cows are honored and worshipped for giving milk. The cattle are given bath, their horns are painted and decorated with beads and bells. And flower garlands around their neck. Some sport events takes place on this day. The game called "Manji Virattu" in which groups of young men chase the running bulls and the "Jallikattu" in which money bags are tied to the horns of ferocious bulls and the young men are asked to wrest them from the bull's horns are famous.

Sivalingam

2008-03-06T12:18:00.000-08:00

INTRODUCTION
Siva lingam is the holy symbol of Lord Siva. The Sanskrit word lingam means symbol, so Siva lingam means symbol of Lord Siva. It is a symbol of that which is invisible yet omnipresent. It is hence a visible symbol of the Ultimate Reality which is present in us. The Sivalingam is also a representation of the infinite Cosmic Column of fire.

STRUCTURE
The Sivalingam is generally mounted on a circular or quadrangular receptacle called the Avudaiyar. This pedestal is designed so as to drain off the water offered during ablution ceremonies. The upper portion of the Shivalingam may be of various shapes, cylindrical, elliptical, umbrella shaped. It is believed that Bhrama is absorbed into the right, Vishnu to the left and Gayatri into the heart.
The Sivalingam worship is intended to be a formless-form (arUparUpam)worship taking the devotee forward from the forms to the natural worship. So Sivalingam worship is a magnificent way of worshiping a easily comprehensible form still maintaining the core fact that the Supreme is formless. It is considered the foremost sacred symbol for Shaivaites and has been worshiped for ages.
Nandi, the bull is depicted facing the sanctum in all Saivite temples, symbolizing the human soul Jeevatma yearning for realizing its oneness with Paramatma.

SIVA MANTRA
Triyambakam/Mrita-Sanjivini/Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra
(Rig veda, Mandala VII, Hymn59)
Om Tryambakam Yajamahe
Sugandhim pushti-vardhanam
Urvarukamiva bandhanan
Mrityor mukshiya mamritat
Om. We worship and adore you, O three eyed one, O Siva. You are sweet gladness, the fragrance of life, who nourishes us, restores our health, and causes us to thrive. As, in due time, the stem of the cucumber weakens, and the gourd is freed from the vine, so free us from attachment and death, and does not withhold immortality.

Hindu Marriage

2008-02-28T16:56:00.000-08:00

Here is a brief description of a typical South Indian Hindu marriage. I want to put this on my blog especially for the Hindus than for the non-Hindus. In this era, the younger generation takes the marriage formalities as fun than realizing its significance. The couple should have knowledge on the Hindu marriage and realize its inner meaning in advance to their marriage.

Vagdanam or Kanyavarana (betrothal)
The preliminary part of the marriage ceremonies consisted in the “vagdanam” (betrothal) or oral giving away of the bride to the bridebridegroom. In early times, the selection of the bride and the bridegroom was mutual either from love or other considerations, and in the majority of the cases love formed the dominant factor. Even in the Rigvedic times, the bridegroom approached the bride's father, to whom the formal proposal was made. If the bride's father approved the selection, the marriage was settled. Within the month of marriage, on an auspicious day, the Kanyavarana ceremony should be performed. The bridegroom, well-dressed and we1l-adorned, with music and chanting of sacred verses, should go to the bride's home with a loving heart. Then the bride's father should give his consent happily. The bridegroom, having propitiated Sachi, should worship the well-adorned bride and pray to her for good luck, health and progeny.

Haridralepana (besmearing)
Ceremony performed before marrige is besmearing the bride and the bridegroom with ointment of turmeric root and oil, a day or two before the wedding. The above substances besides being useful to the body are regarded auspicious also.

Day 1:

Swagatam (ceremonial welcome)
The bride's family welcomes the assembled guests. The bride's brother welcomes the bridegroom as he enters the wedding arena. The bridegroom pays respect to the bride's parents, and they offer him their blessings as well as items to be used during the wedding ceremony.

Ganapathi Puja
As in an inauguration of any function so also in a marriage – Ganapati, the God of Initiation is invoked, to keep away all impediments.

Vratham
The marriage ceremonies begin with the Vratham performed separately by the bride and the bridegroom. From there on, the bridegroom prepares himself for a new chapter in his life as a “Grihasta” (householder). The days of his “brahmacharya” (bachelorhood) are now over and the acceptance of this is all what the vratham is about.

Vaaku Nichaya Muhoortham (Final betrothal)
At the marriage hall, the bride’s father and the bridegroom’s father facing each other, solemnise the final betrothal ceremony, the vedic priest chanting the relevant hymns-in which the names of the bride, the bridegroom, as well as the names of their three generations of ancestors, are cited in presence of friends, relatives, and invitees. This is repeated thrice. This act signifies that the people assembled should know that both, the bride and the bridegroom, come of good families, the pedigree of which can be traced to many generations.

Day 2:

Kasi Yatra
Immediately after his student-life, the young bachelor has two alternatives before him – “Grihasta” (married life) or “Sanyas” (asceticism). Being by nature escapist, he prefers the ascetic life to the tribulations of married life. He therefore makes his way to “Kasi” (Varnasi, a holy place in India), complete with slippers, umbrella, bamboo fan etc. On his way, the bride’s father intervenes and advises him of the superiority of married life to ascetic life. He also promises to give him his daughter as companion to face the challenge of life. The umbrella is to remain with bridegroom, to remind him in the future, of this advice.

Jaya Mala Dharana (exchange of flower garlands)
The bride and bridegroom exchange flower garlands, showing their decision to accept each other as husband and wife and to honor and respect each other.

Oonchal (Swing)
Then, the marrying couple is seated on a swing; they rock forth and back, as the ladies around sing songs to praise to the couple. The chains of the swing signify the eternal karmic link with Almighty above; the to-and-fro motion represent the undulating sea-waves of life; yet, in mind and body they shall move in harmony unperturbed, steady and stable. Water, and lighted lamps are circulated around the swing in order to guard the couple against demons and ghosts. Coloured globules of cooked rice are waved in circular motion, and thrown away to propitiate the evil spirits.

Kankana Dharanam (tying he protective cord)
The bride ties a string fastened to a piece of turmeric, around the wrist of the bridegroom – to bind themselves by a religious vow. It is only after tying the kankanam that the bridegroom gets the right to touch the bride. A little later, the bridegroom ties a kankanam on the bride’s wrist.

This ceremony was very important in ancient times, because from this time until the “samvesa” (sexual union) was performed, the bride and the bridegroom could suffer no pollution, as they had “kankana” (protective cord).

Vastra Paridhapana (exchanging new cloths)
The bride and bridegroom exchange new cloths, which is symbolic of wrapping themselves in each other's lives.

Kanya Dhaanam (giving away the bride)
The bride then is given an exclusive new koorai saree. The saree is draped around her, usually done by the sister of the bridegroom. The bride is made to sit on her father’s lap and is given away as gift by him, to the bridegroom.

The father of the bride, while offering his daughter chants: "I offer you my daughter, a maiden virtuous, good-natured, very wise, decked with ornaments to the best of my ability that she shall guard the Dharma, Wealth, and Love!

On the girl’s head, a ring made with “kusa” (the sacred grass) is placed. And over it, is placed a wooden yoke, the gold 'thaali' or the 'mangal sutra' is placed right on the yoke, and water is poured through the aperture. The Mantras chanted at this time, say: "Let this gold multiply your wealth! Let this water purify your married life, and may your prosperity increase. Offer yourself to your husband!"

Samkalpam Mantras (statement of purpose)
The bride's parents place her hand in the bridegroom's and formally give her hand in the marriage. The couple pledges total devotion to each other and to the uniting of their hearts. While giving away the girl, the guardian puts forward following condition: "In the attainment of Piety, Wealth and Desire, she is not to be transgressed." To this the bridegroom promises, "Transgress her I wil1 not”. The same promise is asked and repeated thrice. And brings the couple together with a sacred mantra.

Mangalya Dharanam
The bridal necklace, called Mangalyam, is passed around the congregation for their blessings. The presiding priest then hands it over to the bridegroom. With the chanting of the appropriate hymn, the bridegroom places the necklace around the bride’s neck and ties by putting two knots. The third knot is usually made by bridegroom's sister. This act symbolizes the essence of matrimony, "Thou art the reason of my life from now on. May you live happily with me forever with this Mangalyam." As he does so, the Nadaswaram and drums are beaten loud and fast (this is called Getti Melam) so as to muffle any inauspicious sounds at the critical hour.

Maangalyam thanthunaanaena mama jeevitha haethunaa
kanttae bathnaami supahae sanjeeva sarasa satham

Meaning: This yellow rope is mangala suthram. This will help my longevity. I shall now tie this rope in your neck. I pray you live happily for a hundred years.

Sindhur Dana (the mark of marriage)
The bridegroom places the “sindhura” or “kum kum” (an auspicious red powder) in the part of the bride's hair.

Paani Grahanam (holding hands)
The bridegroom holds the hand of the bride. The Manthras say: The Devas have offered you to me in order that I may live the life of a Grihasta, we shall not part from each other even after we grow old!

Bridegroom lowers his right hand and catches bride’s right hand with all the fingers together. Four mantras are recited at that time, to convey the following:
1. I hold your hand to keep you with me to raise good children and till you become old. Devatas including Indra have offered you to me to become the Lady in charge of the house.
2. Sun God/Lord Agni, who have been powerful when they were having their "Grahasthasrama" has given you to me.
3. Oh, Goddess Saraswathi, you should protect us well. We will offer our oblations to you before all the creatures of this world.
4. Let the Vayu God who cleanseth and pervades all directions and corners, and who holds Gold in his hand and is the counterpart of Agni, unite you with me in mind and thought.

Sapta Padi Gamana (seven sacred steps)
Holding the bride’s hand, the bridegroom walks seven steps with her.The bride and bridegroom begin their journey of a new life together by reciting seven sacred vows: strength, power, upholding vows, happiness, prosperity, increasing spiritual understanding, and maintaining religious faith. This is the most important part of the marriage ceremony, and only when they walk seven steps together, is the marriage complete legally. Now that the bride and bridegroom have become ‘Husband and Wife’, they perform the sacred rituals together since no such vedic rituals can be performed hereafter by any one of them without the other.

Pradhana Homa (offering of to Agni)
The couple circle around the “Agni” (fire), and feed it with ghee, and twigs of nine types of trees, as sacrificial fuel. The fumes that arise, are supposed to possess medicinal, curative and cleaning effects on the bodies of the couple. Agni, the mightiest power in the Cosmos, the sacred purifier, the all-round benefactor, is deemed as witness to the marriage.

Ashma Kramana (treading on the stone)
Bridegroom then holds bride’s toe of the right leg and places it on a stone placed to the right side of Agni. While doing so, he says through mantra: "May you be steadfast as the stone, let your mind be rock-firm, unperturbed, by the trials and tribulations of life! Then, the bride's maternal uncle's wife places “metti” (a silver ring) on one of the little toes of the bride as a gesture of love. Earlier married women as well as men wear metti. These days only women wear it. Why???

Laja Homa (offering of rice for prosperity)
The bride and the bridegroom pour puffed rice and grains, mixed with sacred leaves, into the sacred fire. By offering to Agni, they confirm the vows and they ask the blessings for prosperity, happiness and success in family life.

Ashirvad (receiving blessings of parents and elders)
After bowing to the deities, the bride and the bridegroom ask for the blessings of the priest, their parents and other elders for a long and happy life together. The elders shower “akshadai” (rice-grains coated with turmeric

Griha Pravesam
Taking with her, fire from the Laaja homam, the bride takes leave of her home, and enters the new home of her in-laws. The vedic hymns now sound likes the mother’s words of advice to her daughter: "Be the queen of your husband’s home. May your husband glorify your virtues, conduct yourself in such a way that you win your in-law’s love”.

Nalangu
Nalangu includes: the bride anointing the bridegroom’s feet with colour paste, fanning him, showing him a mirror, breaking papads over each other’s head, wrenching the betel pack from each other’s hand, rolling the coconut from one to another as in ball-play, etc,. Probably, in olden days, these events would have helped the bride and the bridegroom to get along since on those days the couple would not meet each other and barely speak before their wedding. It has got no significance in this era. This event is only for the fun at the cost of the couple.

Mangala Aarthi
The elders in the family brings the sacred lights on pan leaves placed on lime & turmeric powder mixed in water on a plate and circle around the bride and bridegroom, it is said this is done to ward of the evil eye. Actually this is done so that the mind of the newly married couple be illuminated by wisdom and wishes them happiness and prosperity.

Kamasutra
Kamasutra was written by Mallinaga Vatsyayana, over 2000 years ago. He lived in Benaras between 500-600AD. Kamasutra is a classic of all time. It consists of 7 books, 36 parts and 1250 slokas or verses. It is a kind of Tantric sex which is spiritual sex practice.

According to Vedas, Dharma + Artha + Kama = Moksha (liberation)

Aandal's Thirupavai

2007-12-17T12:31:00.000-08:00

Today is the first day of the “Maargazhi” month, an auspicious month to recite the “Thirupavai”, a 1300 years old Tamil Bhakti literature composed by Aandal, only woman Vaishnava Saint. I have heard about the story of Aandal from my mother when I was a kid and learnt about Aandal’s work from my college studies.

Saint Aandal (a.k.a, Nachiar, Kothai, Chudi Kodutha Chudar Kodi) was the daughter of Vishnuchitta (a.k.a Periyazhwar) who lived in Srivilliputtur, near Madurai. Vishnuchitta procured flowers for the worship of the Lord Vishnu at a temple. One morning, he discovered a baby girl lying under a tulasi plant in his garden. Having no family of his own, Vishnuchitta felt it was God's grace that gave him this child and named her Kothai. Naturally, Kothai grew up in an atmosphere of love and devotion. Vishnuchitta sang songs to her about his beloved Vishnu, taught her all the stories and philosophy he knew, and shared with her his love of Tamil poetry. Gradually the love for the Beloved Lord intensified in her. Even as a child, Kothai made up her mind to marry none but the Lord Vishnu. She adorned herself daily with the flower, and thinking of herself as Lord Vishnu's bride, she would put the garland back, for her father to take to the temple and offer to the Lord. One day, her father caught her unawares, admiring herself in the mirror with the garlands. He was scandalized and mortified beyond belief that his daughter could so defile a sacred adornment. He scolded Kothai for her misuse of the garland and discarded it. That night, the Lord Vishnu appeared to Vishnuchitta in his dream and asked him the reason for discarding the garland and said that he would be pleased to wear the garlands once worn by Kothai. He realized the intensity of Kothai’s love for the Lord and her spiritual greatness. Since then she is known as "Aandal", the girl who "ruled" over the Lord.

Aandal blossomed into a beautiful young woman. Her desire was to become the consort of Lord Vishnu at the Srirangam temple. Vishnuchitta became desperate. Lord Vishnu again appeared in his dream and asked that Aandal be sent to Him in all her wedding finery. Vishnuchitta followed Lord Vishnu’s words. Aandal reaching Srirangam temple ran into the sanctum sanctorum, embraced Lord Vishnu and disappeared in a blaze of glory.

Thiruppavai songs are sung in the month of Maarkazhi, originally by unmarried girls praying to the Pavai goddess seeking blissful married life. It is a uniquely Tamil tradition unknown in the rest of India. It has 30 songs one for each day of the month. It is unparalleled for its simple Tamil which is still understandable even after more than one thousand years. The loving and teasing exchanges that take place between the girls gathering each other from house to house on their way to the bathing terminal and to the house of Thirumaal are sweetly described. There is a practice to this day that during the poojas in the Lord Vishnu temples the last two stanzas of Thiruppavai are sung. It is also interesting to note that these two stanzas are also recited in Tamil during coronation of the kings of Thailand.

I read this on the news today: “The commencement time of Dhanurmasam is at 2.58PM on December 16 and ends on January 14, 2007. In view of Dhanurmasam the Thiruppavai will be recited in the place of Suprabhatam in the temple of Lord Venkateswara, Tirumala…”

A BRIEF NOTE ON TAMIL SAINTS AND TAMIL LITERATURE
I got introduced to the Tamil Bhakti literature when I was in college. We had an excellent Tamil literature teacher, Ms. Thilaga.

In brief, between 5th and 9th centuries A.D., there were 12 Vaishvanite Saints called Azhvars, devotees of Lord Vishnu. The development of Vaishnava philosophy owes much to the composition by these Saints. The 12 Azhvars were Bhootamazhvar, Peyazhvar, Poygaiazhvar, Tirumazhisaiyazhvar, Nammazhvar, Madurakaviyazhvar, Kulasekhara Azhvar, Periyazhvar, Aandal, Tondaradippodi Azhvar, Tiruppanazhvar and Tirumangaiyazhvar. The Tamil compositions by all these 12 Saints are collectively known as "Nalayira Divya Prabandham".

Similarly, the development of Shaiva philosophy owes much to the composition by 63 Shaivite Saints called Nayanmars, devotees of Lord Siva. Among the 63 Nayanmars, the most prominent Saints are Thirunyanachampandhar (Sambandar), Thirunavukkarasar (Appar), Sundarar (Sundaramurthi nayanar), and Manikkavasagar.

Ganesha

2007-12-03T13:07:00.000-08:00

courtesy:www.atributetohinduism.com