Be Available

Year end is neither an end nor a beginning, but the wisdom, which we experienced can instill in us. What feels like an end, is often the beginning. This year, for me I would say a year of love, laughter, learnings, opportunities. There were very few phases of overwhelming days too. Where I just easily floated and came out. This happened, because of my strong connect with the divine and my spiritual practises, and blessings of my Guru. My family, year-end agenda has always been to travel, to a destination where we have never visited. This year, in our summer vacation we travelled to J & K. We decided to spend our winter vacation and begin our new year with self-connect. After all being with self is the biggest joy, one should learn to experience. It is highly necessary; one should learn how to vibe alone. You can't live your life being dependent on other source of energy. One should have the ability to be self-sufficient. So, it is very important to tap into yourself once in a while. I feel connecting with self and knowing yourself is a monumental and life changing event. The more I connect with self within, the easier it gets for me to connect with the world outside. I cannot build a deep connection with someone who is disconnected from themselves. Realign with your soul is important. And for realigning, one should find connection with self. We should learn, where to stop doing and to start being. (Read again, it has bigger meaning, which I learnt recently) 

My whole family decided to spend our winter vacation with something meaningful. And we (Myself, our 10-year-old son, and hubby) enrolled to the most amazing course of Art of Living, in its international centre near Bengaluru. Here the challenges were how to leave my 10-year-old son, and attend a workshop, where I had zero access with the outside world. The main highlight of this 3 and half a day workshop, to be in silence for 60 hours (two and half a day of total silence). Yes, no phone, no internet, not allowed to talk or converse etc. Complete disconnect from the outside world. R is aware of this workshop, since I had already done this twice, but with the nearby AOL centre to my house. This time I registered to do in AOL ashram, which was a total blissful - divine experience. Later we enrolled R to a 5 days kids’ workshop, (which is highly popular. And we get to see kids from across India.) In this R will be fully occupied day in and out, and we would meet only at the night. N took in charge to take care R and I enrolled for my Silence workshop.

First day of my workshop, which started by self-introduction, with a group of 62 people from different parts of India. Who had travelled all the way long to experience this amazing workshop. I felt myself fortunate that to be located in the same city and connected near to this amazing beautiful AOL ashram. Met many wonderful people, with whom I connected very fast, and made many good friends. Played few games, and did our first kriya of the workshop. The very famous SKY (Sudarshan Kriya) Later enjoyed evening Satsang (singing and dancing to the soulful bhajans) and later in the evening disperse for the day. Once we went to sleep on that night, our silence was started, until next 60 hours. Second day of the workshop started early in the morning @ 6.30am. Being an early riser, I started 30 minutes before the time to reach the venue from our room. I just love that golden hour of the day. Where I get very limited time to experience in my day-to-day life. So, now I took total advantage to enjoy this time, with self. Walking in the dark winter mornings, smelling the greens, and feeling the cool breeze around the large huge tress and lush greens, watching, the sky with that one bright star shinning. That stroll was worth the walk of the day, where I find myself the luckiest person to experience this ecstatic atmosphere and the positive energy, until I reach my venue. Morning 6.30am sadhana, for an hour with a power packed warmup exercise, followed by Yoga. When our body is active and mind is calm, is the perfect time to experience different levels of yoga asanas and breathing exercises, which left us positive and calm mind in a joyful state at the same time. Yes, this is the magic to be in silence. One, experience all this together at the same time. Around 8.30 am break for breakfast, (We were given, a light sattvic, delicious food) and again followed by series of meditations, with lunch break and short break, followed by various processes, until evening, before Satsang. 8.30 pm is the dispersal time to go back to sleep. 

Third day too, went very well with the process, meditations and different breathing techniques etc. During different meditations, one release the oldest haunting emotions, grief, sadness. It was cleansing us in a way. Which we often hold on it, and never try to release it. That one moment Breath is our very own existences. And I understood that breathe is unbroken, coherent connection with the whole, and meditation is that guiding energy to it. On the second day night R was left frustrated seeing me in front of him, but not talking to him. Though he is aware of the process, this time he was a bit overwhelmed. As, I was in silence I just tucked him and went to sleep. On the fourth day morning, we had an early session @ 6am, as this was the D-day, where we all will be out of silence, after 60 hours. I started from my room around 5.30am and reached the venue, it was freezing, but I enjoy winter mornings, as it’s my favourite season. After our morning sadhana and meditation, we all came out of silence, and were told to bless our family members, Friends. Anyone for that matter, the entire creation. Just, to share the merit of our silence with each and every living being on this planet. Felt immensely blessed and uttered our first word, after 60 hours of silence. We can tell any one word, thanking the universe and lineage of master's. Honestly, speaking we were not ready to come out of silence. That experience cannot be explained in words,it can be only felt. Later the time to sit and think, what was the take away from this workshop? many shared their experience, few were battling their own battles, related to health, relationships, career, etc, where in they wanted to have a clarity in mind and clear thoughts. Many understood that worrying doesn't take away tomorrow's trouble, it takes away today's peace. 

My take away from this workshop was definitely a major come back to myself. Being a full-time mother of a 10-year-old kid, homemaker, and pursuing my passion for dance and writing, having the most supportive and loving family, at times, I still find challenges. And it is not only my story. We all are fighting over own battles in one or the other way. But somewhere I had felt that disconnect from being myself. Before going to this workshop, few close people asked me, a joyful talkative person, how can be in silence for 3 days in a row. My reply was, if you feel sad, unhappy, boring being with your own self, then you cannot be happy with anyone or anything.You will always look for that one helping hand or person to make you happy. Our own happiness should not be measured by others; it should be our own existence. Because, " An empty pot cannot sever others", right? 

It’s important in life learn to say "No", which is difficult for a person, who loves only to give. But it is said, even the receiver should be of that level to receive it. Before being available for others, first be available to self. I learnt to be easy in life to oneself, no matter what might be the situation. And, that forbearance comes to one, with spiritual practices, and who are in knowledge. The ultimate is not to win, but to reach within the depths of your own capabilities and to compete against yourself. I may not have gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I intended to be. The most powerful relationship you will ever have, is the relationship with yourself; so, make it a loving one. This is precisely, how much life loves you and wants you to nurture yourself. 

"Perhaps the longest journey, is the journey within, so 'Be Gentle' and 'Be Available' in this voyage of self-discovery". My mood for 2025 - " Happy, Unbothered, Focused, Flourishing, Staying in my lane, Growing, Glowing........

On Board

It was a cloudy rainy evening, on a weekend, we stepped out for dinner, when we reached the main road, our car came to a halt seeing a red signal, R and N were having a causal talk and I was listening to my favourite number watching sky, suddenly a car just passed by, and my eyes couldn't resist to see the sticker which was sticked on back side of the car. As the trafficator turned green, we started driving, and that car was in front of ours, as I observed the car was going slowly without any hurry and I could see there were 3-4 aged adults in that car. And the car was chauffeured by a young boy in his mid 20's who was happily talking to them. Since the road was not that crowded by traffic, our car just shoots ahead by their car. And I was keen to know who were stationed inside the car upon seeing the sticker behind there rare seat. There were 3 aged people smiling and talking with jubilant smile who were enjoying the ride. Probably that young boy might be their grandson or some relative. I have seen stickers like - "Baby on Board “or " Prince or Princess on board" But this was so different, it was a different sticker - " Adults on board". And till now I have never come across such stickers. And it just hit me that hardest part of growing up is realizing your parents are growing old, which we never wanted to believe, but this is the harsh reality. I was very happy to see, that good people still exist, who are taking care of their old ones so affectionately. Hardly we get to see this type of relation these days. 

In the mid of my thoughts, I got a nudge from R, Mumma get down we reached restaurant. Since it was Guru Purnima, we decided to have a Satvik dinner. This restaurant serves the most delicious Satvik vegetarian food on their menu - say from North Indian to Italian to Chinese, Sizzlers and starters which are cooked in a Satvik way, without using garlic and onion. Entire restaurant gives you a holistic atmosphere, where one can see the verses from Bhagavad Gita on walls beautifully written with amazing paintings. And yes, we being a pure vegetarian, we relish their yummy food. After having a hearty meal, we returned back home. But this thought is not leaving me since a day that, how much time I am able to spend with my parents. Caring for aged old seniors and parents are the significant responsibility that requires love, patience and compassion. How I see at times my mom suddenly tells me to increase the volume of television while watching her favourite TV show, or my dad ask me same things repeatedly, that immediately hits me that yes, it is a natural thing. It is a process which bring us back from where we started. A 3 to 4-year baby repeatedly asking for things which he/she don’t understand, or when a one-year-old baby who just started walking who falls again and again. The same happens with our aged parents. They find difficulty while walking, they need a balance or a supporting hand. It is a privilege to repay their love and sacrifices. Those who walked before us have given so much and made possible the life we all enjoy.

Now adays there are new service providers who are providing human assistance for aged parents of those, whose children’s stay in different cities or staying abroad. They are trained educated caretaker who assist aged people in giving them emotional and moral support. And to help them in assistance, for instances taking them to hospital, temple or spend some happy quality time. The most obvious similarity between old people and babies or kids is that they need the care and intervention of others. Old age has been viewed as a time when older people returned to child-like behaviour. To some scholars, this return was viewed as completing the cycle of life, as older people become to regress to an earlier state of mind and being and they became dependent on others for care, similar to child. Staying in a city where my parents live is a blessing in disguise. We may never be able to thank our parents enough for all they have done. Our indebtedness to our parents is so immense that it is not possible to repay it fully in any lifetime. The least we can do is to treat them with respect, love and gratitude, so that there may not come a time, where they need to choose an old age home or can be handled by any service providers. 

"A parent's love is whole no matter how many times divided”. To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors. Remain patient and give all your respect to our beloved parents and seniors, as they have earned their dignity through their lifetime.....

 

Majha Pandhari

Wishing all a very happy Ashadhi Ekadashi or Devshayani Ekadashi. This day marks a great significance, for a Hindu devotee, especially for every Maharashtrian’s. I despite being a Devi bhakt from my childhood, after my son was born, I found a great connect with the lord Narayan. My mom and I used to narrate lot of childhood stories of Krishna to R. And I started celebrating Krishna Janmashtami after R was born. When R was 4-year-old, he used to recite many verses of Bhagavat Gita so lucidly, especially 7th and 12th chapter, since it was taught in his school. And he remembers a single line of it even to this date. He being a spiritual child from the time he was born, doing pooja’s, chanting. Literally a small pandit of our house. Year passed by and my connection with lord Narayana became more and more strong. And today is the day of the lord going to rest for next 4 months. Hence it is called Devshayani Ekadashi. 

Ashadhi Ekadashi or Devshayani Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the Hindu month of Ashadha, so Devshayani Ekadashi is also called as Ashadhi Ekadashi. It signifies a time of deep spiritual connection, and it is one of the most important religious festivals that is celebrated in Maharashtra. This festival is celebrated on a large scale especially in Pandharpur, where a huge number of devotees gather to celebrate the festival. It is a religious procession festival which is held every year during the Ashada Shukla paksha. Generally, Ekadashi is considered to be coming every month of the year, but the eleventh day of Ashadh is said to be auspicious Ekadashi. As per the legends on this day, lord Vishnu enters in to deep rest of concentration or yoga nidra, and he again wake up after 4 months on the day of Prabodhini Ekadashi which falls in the month of Kartik. On this day the devotees keep fast whole day and pray to the lord of universe. In Pandharpur people go walking in huge processions singing chanting hymns carrying palanquins which have the image of great saint Dnyaneshwar and saint Tukaram to pray their tribute to their lord Vitthal. Many musical instruments like dholkis and chiplis are played by the devotees during this holy yatra. 

This day is considered very pious and people join the yatra not only from Maharashtra but also from other cities as well. It is said this procession starts in Allandi and ends on Guru Purnima at Pandharpur. Men are dressed in ethnic wears like white dhoti and kurta and sing devotional songs which is called " Abhang" in Marathi. I remember my mom used to narrate these stories to us in our childhood.  My maternal grandma's uncle was a 'Warkari'. These warkari's are the one who belong to a sampradaya within spiritual tradition of Hinduism, geographically associated with the state of Maharashtra. Warkari’s worship Vitthal. (known as Vithoba). the presiding deity of Pandharpur, regarded as a form of Vishnu. In olden days the famous saints and gurus of the bhakti movement associated with the warkari’s include - Dnyaneshwar, Namdev, Chokhamela, Eknath and Tukaram all of whom are accorded the title of Sant. These warkari’s were the historically the followers of Krishna. 

This tradition has been part of Hindu culture in Maharashtra since 13th century CE. The warkari movement includes the worship of Vithoba and a duty-based approach towards life emphasising moral behaviour and strict avoidance of alcohol and tobacco, and adapt the Satvik diet. Owing to these stories of our puranas, this day is celebrated in Maharashtra with lot of grandeur and devotees join from all parts of the country to pay homage to the lord. 

As I write this today, I am still at loss of words for what Vitthal means to me. How he entered my life and directing me towards my path."Majha Pandhari" in Marathi ( My Vitthal) one of my favourite shlok of lord Vishnu - 

" कृष्णाया वासुदेवाय हरये परमात्मने। प्रणतः क्लेशनाशाय गोविंदाया नमो नमः।।

 

An Age Old Practice

One day R my 10-year-old son, asked me a question, mumma why men do 'Ashtanga Pranam' or 'Sashtanga Pranam. And women do 'Dandavat'. And I was very happy to hear this question from him. For his keen observation on such minute things. I myself got the answer when I was in my 5th month of pregnancy with R, was really amazed to hear the reason behind it. I had little knowledge about it. But as kids are keen enthusiastic R need a proper full proof answer.

Hinduism is known as the oldest religion to have introduced and practiced 'Namaskar' (or Pranama) a respectful salutation before deities or the elders. In Indian culture the significance of these forms of pranama lies in demonstrating humility, devotion and respect to the divine or revered personalities. It is essential to recite prayers or mantras while offering salutations, as it enhances the spiritual connection and reinforces one's reverence. Pranama is derived from Sanskrit word 'Pra' as prefix meaning "forward, in front or before", and 'Nama' means "bending or stretching". So, in combined terms, it means 'reverentially bowing' before others, as a gesture of respect. 

Since time known, Hinduism has been practicing the 6 forms of Pranam -

Ashtanga - 8 body parts touching the ground. Knees,belly,chest,hands,elbows,chin,nose and temple.

Sashtanga - 6 body parts touching the ground. Toes,knee,hands,chin,nose and temple.

Panchanga - 5 body parts touching the ground. Knees,chest,chin,temple and forehead.

Dandavat - 2 body parts touching the ground. Knees and forehead.

Namaskar - Revering with folded hands touching the forehead.

Abhinandana - Greeting others with just head bow and folded hands, touching their chest. It is the old Hindu mythological greeting.

With changing times, people have changed their gesture of reverence, where people back in ancient times performed Ashtanga and Sashtanga for their deities, gurus, parents and elderly, now they resort to a comforting Namaskar. 

Also, the most interesting part when R asked me why women are forbidden in doing Ashtanga or Shastanga pranam, nor he has ever seen a woman doing this kind of pranams, and does only Dandvat. I was very delighted for his observation in day-to-day life. As it is mentioned in Upanishads, that women were forbidden from doing Ashtanaga or Sashtanga which required them not to touch the ground in reverence with their chest or womb, because a women's womb and chest were considered very sensitive and slightest muscle pull could disturb their maternity. Gradually, as they approach motherhood, they are exempted from performing Sashtanga too and are allowed to follow Dandavat and Namaskar.

We see that greeting elders and deities is practised in all religions. Especially in Hinduism. Some other communities practise it too. It is said that, when a person bows down and touches the feet of their elders, their ego gets suppressed as this gesture indicates respecting the age, experience, achievements and wisdom of the person whose feet are being touched. As read in Mahabharata, Yudhistra stated that touching the feet of the elders gives strength and feeling of greatness. Even Rishis have observed four beneficial factors of touching the feet, i.e. it gives strength, intellect, knowledge and fame. 

But in present times, it seems each one of us has found an escape in Abhinandana, sometimes not even this. Barely bowing head in acknowledgment has become quite common these days. I feel education begins the moment we see children as innately wise and capable beings. While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about, and its learning, each and every minute. Because wisdom is not a product of schooling but of the lifelong attempt to acquire it. 

I feel the important thing is not to stop questioning, curiosity has its own reason for existing. Because curiosity gives space for your kids mind to explore. It is not what you do for your children, but what you taught them to do for themselves, that will make them a successful human being. With this, I was happy to answer my little boy, and he was convinced with the answer he got from his Mumma.

Being a mother is not about what you gave up to have a child, but what you have gained from having one. For me it is a lifelong learning, I am embracing and in love with it....

 

 

 

Happy Relaxing

Recently I came across a beautiful short video, which just left me with questions in my mind. And later which made me sit back and think about the women in my life. My grandmother, my mom, my female friends, and myself too, or say the entire womanhood. Why is that not easy for women to just sit and relax? Growing up, I never knew a relaxed woman, not even in movies. I have always seen my grandmother in the kitchen doing household chores. And my mom was a working woman for years until my son was born. She is a supernova, always on her toes. Now I am following in the footsteps of my mom. I feel proud of myself for handling multiple tasks. Managing the house, taking care of my 10-year-old son, and following my passion dancing, and writing. But are we relaxed?

For years now I have seen my mom working tirelessly, even now in her late 60s. When she is working there is no room for tiredness or even a frown on her face. I believe aging has a wonderful beauty, and we should accept it gracefully. My mom is the heartbeat of the house, and without her, there is no heartthrob. But does this heartthrob get a relaxed day? Women since ages have been working tirelessly. Usually, women are shown with ten hands multitasking. I feel we should learn now where to stop, sit back and relax. At times women give themselves unconditional permission to relax. Practicing self-love is necessary not only for us but for the people who stay with us too. You don't need to be everything for everyone always. Be there with yourself, by yourself, and for yourself. Take time to do what makes your soul happy.

A mother's hands are always full when crusts need cutting, diapers need changing, crumbs need sweeping and cups need reaching. Errands need running, tears need drying, and hearts need mending. Her hands do it all. But most full of all is her heart. It is hard to love yourself if you never spend time with yourself. How you love yourself, is how you teach others to love you. Like art, women come in different colors, sizes, and forms. And like works of art, every woman is unique, and beautiful and should be appreciated. Love yourself enough to take the actions required for your happiness. Love yourself enough to cut yourself loose from the ties of the drama-filled past and people. Be faithful to that which exists within yourself. Make happiness a priority and be gentle with yourself in the process.

We have seen successful women? Yes. Productive women? Plenty. Afraid and apologetic women? heaps of them. But relaxed women? without apology? I am not sure I have ever met one. We women work so tirelessly at work and home all day, a reminder of self-care and self-love. Take a break, do nothing. Meet family and friends. Dance like no one's watching. There is no right age or time to enjoy simple joys like:- Feeling the rain, watching the sky, enjoying the wind. The best escape to the daily grind is 'Niksen". It is a Dutch lifestyle concept. Niksen means, "doing nothing". It involves indulging in simple activities, strolling in nature, and listening to music. This Dutch art of doing nothing isn't about laziness; it's about being mindful of the present moment and taking time to rest and recharge yourself.  Pamper yourself. Enjoy your leisure time without any guilt. Research has shown that slowing down not only reduces stress and anxiety but also enhances creativity and strengthens the immune system. To incorporate Niksen into your life, take away from devices and find a space where you can sit, think, or meander aimlessly. Embrace everyday moments, whether it's waiting in line or being stuck in traffic. Stop being perfect women all the time. There is a kind of beauty in imperfection too.    

Life isn't meant to be lived perfectly... But to be lived merely and create memories. Prioritizing your deepest creative work as a woman is a radical act of self-love. When you are calm, happy, and composed, your actions can create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, and do more. When you deeply love yourself it gives you courage and strength. Make so many shades of yourself that you can choose yourself every day. If you are tired, learn to rest but not to quit. "Life is tough my darling, but so you are". Fall in love with yourself, Mind-Body-Spirit. So don't forget to celebrate yourself. ''You have enough. You do enough. You are enough". Just Relax. "Happy relaxing".

विजय गीत

सत्य, धर्म, मद और प्यार,

कहे वाल्मीकि, रामायण सार।

रघुवीर रीत सदा चली आए, 

प्राण जाए पर वचन न जाए।

वचन रगुपति के, रचाए रावण संहार,

धर्म विजयी, धुत लंकापति की हार।

धनुष टूटा, ब्रह्मांड रूठा

भरम भाले का, कर झूठा।

जानकीवल्लभ संग सवार

सीता गए अयोध्या पधार।

दशरथ के वचन , वो कैकेई को कर अदा,

निकले वनवास, जानकी संग लक्ष्मण धनुर्धारी

स्वर्णमृग से ठगे, सीताहरण किए दशानन धार।

संजीवनी ले प्राण बचाए

रुद्रमुर्ति हनुमान आए।

प्रभु मुद्रिका, मैया को चढ़ाए

पूछ भभके, फिर लंका जलाए

सीता भंजन में व्याकुल श्रीराम

दरदर समंदर सेतु बना लंका पार !

दसवें दिन रचाए दशानन संहार

सितसहित, सीतापति घर प्रस्थान।

धन्य हुई अयोध्या, मनाए त्योहार

दशहरा दीवाली, बांटे स्नेह उपहार।

श्री रघुवीर भक्त हितकारी

सुनी लीजै प्रभु अरज हमारी,

निशि दिन ध्यान धरै जो कोई,

ता सम बक्त और नहीं होई।

उठ रही दिल मे उमंग "श्री राम जन्मभूमि" आने की, पर मेरे

बस में कुछ भी नहीं, "प्रभु" आप ही व्यवस्था करो "अयोध्या" बुलाने की।।

    श्री राम राम रामेति, रमे रामे मनोरमे । 

   सहस्रनाम तत्तुल्यं, रामनाम वरानने।।

             "जय श्री राम"                ……...….............................................

New Year - New Dreams

What the new year 

Brings to you , will depend a 

Great deal, on what you bring

To the New year

This year do more of what 

Already working for me

To be the one who 

Is so busy improving yourself

That, you don't have time for 

Regrets, drama and 

Negativity.

Do not work more 

Than you live.

This year make a new resolution

To be yourself,

To make today worthy remembering 

Clear out the clutter. Less shopping 

Work out to stay healthy,

Not to be thinner.

To do random acts of kindness and service

Less couch , more workouts

Less talking, more listening

Less complaints, more smiles

Ignore any opinions that do not 

Enhance life.

To stay away from people who 

Drain your energy

To make time , not excuses 

Identify the essential, eliminate the rest

The less you own, the less owns you

Minimalism is not having less

It's about making room for more of

what matters

Simplicity is the ultimate

Sophistication 

To make myself rich, by making 

My wants few.

Live in the moment

Start each day with gratitude

Laugh more

To create meaningful connections

Meditate

Stick to your goals. Be generous 

Choose happiness 

Thank you 2023 for the learnings, memories, happines and blessings 

Let's embrack on a new chapter of life

Living behind , what no longer serves

Welcoming New year 2024 with greatful heart

And much gratitude 

New year, New dreams, New me

........................................................

Go Global Stay Local

It was half past 7 in the evening when our doorbell rang nonstop. The first time it rang I could hear from inside my house a group of people conversing loudly. I opened the door to my amazement - Boom, it was a group of kids dressed like vampires, zombies, ghosts, witches, and whatnot. I was shocked for a second and the kids wished me a ''Happy Halloween" aunty and asked for candies and gifts. I was not prepared for this. So gave them toffees. So, one set of little Halloween left. But this phenomenon occurred repeatedly in the period of every 15 minutes and I was running out of candies, as at my home we store very little or no candies in our refrigerator. We avoid sugar and packed snacks. Every time the doorbell rang R used to run towards the fridge to find toffee to give to his friends. Our stock of candies got over very quickly. But the doorbell was ringing until 10 pm in the night. Where R was fast asleep, being my early raiser kid. I was awake with my half-eye open; I kept on telling the little cute witches and vampires - Sorry our stock got over. hmmmmmm. And yes, R was not part of this celebration, he didn't like the idea of celebrating. According to him, it is not written in any of the Indian scriptures. And also, because, he knows its origin, why this festival came into existence. Yes, I had told the story of why and when it dated back that this festival was celebrated and came into existence. And somehow, he is not in favour of celebrating ' Bhoot Divas', I call it this way. And I being a good understanding mom completely respect his decision, and also of those cute little kids who were rooming around the entire society in celebrating Halloween until 11 pm dressed like witches. 

That night I was happy to talk with kids whom I had known for more than 9 years and never even exchanged a smile when I tried to smile at them, nor did they try to greet me when I wanted to have a conversation with them. At least with this celebration, I was able to talk to them and know their name and exchange smiles, and most importantly, I gave them toffee and candies. The next day morning when I went down to drop R off at his school bus at the main gate of our society, where most of the kids wait, I saw a few kids who were at my place the previous night asking for candies and gifts, I was expecting them to give a smile or just say hello, to my amazement, they just turned their face. I was not so elevated by this behaviour, thinking let me break the ice and I smiled back at them, thinking one or the other day they would understand. A week passed by there came the biggest festival of the year, which is celebrated on a larger scale. This festival is like home calling for an Indian. It is a festival of love, laughter, and lights - Diwali- The festival of lights. Where elders and the ladies of the house start being busy in the preparation for this festival 10 days before, making yummy snacks along with kids. Cleaning and decluttering the old things which are no longer used. At my house, R and I make small goodie bags for his friends. R paint the mud diya and make handmade cards to send Diwali wishes. And I prepare snacks at home which will be packed in a silk bag along with diya and card. R distributed these goodie bags going to his friend's place and wished them "Happy Diwali". And takes this to his school too and distributes it to his friends. We both just love making this every year. Wearing new clothes and bursting crackers should not be the main thing of this festival. Of course, it is a part of it. But the main idea of Indian festivals is, that they unite people. Festivals help us to embrace our culture and religion. And it is very helpful in breaking the monotony of life. To my amazement, any of those kids who were rooming around dressed like witches and whatnot were neither bothered to wish on "Diwali". This made me write down this post.

R along with his friend busted crackers. He is not keen on polluting the air, but this year he wanted to show me that he is not afraid of crackers anymore and he busted a few rockets and very few small bijli and bombs. I being a spectator was just standing by his side to see his enthusiasm and smile. But my mind was constantly thinking about days that I cherished from my childhood, especially during festivals and pooja. That enthusiasm about taking part in all the small things too big. Where we wanted our outmost contribution and make our parents feel happy and proud. We used to get up early in the morning, and take a bath then decorate the house with flowers and the ladies put beautiful rangoli and those yummy mouthwatering dishes that we used to just gulp. I don't see that in today's generation. When we enjoy our kids celebrating Halloween so enthusiastically, why can't they follow our culture and go to houses wearing traditional attire and wishing people who live in their neighbourhood and get their blessings? Doing these kids will get blessings along with yummy traditional food. We cannot blame the younger generation. Kids do what they see. So, people wake up our cute little people watching us. We have to set an example for them. But we keep blaming our kids for not listen etc. It is not only important to teach our children about the importance of our festival, culture, and knowledge behind each festival we celebrate, but most importantly we need to follow it. 

 

There is no problem in celebrating a festival that is not even routed in India. We Indians truly believe in the concept of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam". and have no problem celebrating " Halloween" or "Ancestors Day" or anything for that matter. By the way 'Halloween" dates back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. These Celts who lived 2,000 years ago, mostly lived in the area that is now Ireland, it is believed that on this day, the souls of the dead returned to their homes, so people dressed in scary costumes and lit bonfires to ward off spirits. I doubt any of these kids were educated who were celebrating this festival rather than knowing its origin. In India, we don't wear scary outfits to ward off our ancestors but we do pooja and get their blessings in the month of the Hindu calendar ''Pitru Paksha". (I know it is debatable) Studying ancient history allows us to have a better grasp of our cultural heritage and intellectual growth. We all know that we couldn't be who we are today if we don't understand our culture. We are a land of belonging rather than blood. India is a country in which every great religion finds a home.

 

But we should tell our kids that Indian festivals are a time to live, love, celebrate, and enjoy with family and friends. It is a time for endless joy and excitement. There are perks of staying in metropolitan cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai, we get to witness different cultures in one place. I feel it is very important for our kids to see and get involved in all the festivals. Diwali, Navaratri, Kartik month pooja, and Ganesh Chaturthi are the biggest festivals which are celebrated by being at home and welcoming positivity into our life. Engage kids in being creative, cooking, and baking. Exchange food with neighbours. Enjoy the different cuisines and their delicacies during festivals. Encourage them to participate in various cultural activities (Not only Halloween) going around as there is no better way to learn than this and showcase their talent. This is a way to let them be a part of the dazzling fairs and festivals and discover the real life of India in a very special way filled with endless joy and excitement. Festivals are a time to rejoice and cherish memorable experiences. I see people going on vacation, locking the doors. It is an individual's choice. But now things have changed for our times. As we now talk about not busting crackers on Diwali. Save water on Holi. So, let our kids not miss out on everything related to their culture.

A country as diverse as India is symbolized by the plurality of its culture. It is the seventh-largest country by area and the second-most populous country globally. For ages, it has been a land of sages, and saints. Epics like Ramayana and Mahabharat are the real evidence that depict the strong Indian culture.  Once a great scientist said, "We owe a lot to the Indians, who taught us how to count, without which no worthwhile scientific discovery could have been made". These lines were said by the great - Albert Einstein. Embrace the diversity of Indian festivals and celebrate the unity it symbolizes. Because the greatness of culture can be found in its festival. Don't allow that to fade away. Throughout the year, in all religions, in all seasons, we Indians find a reason to worship almost everything and everyone, from people to Gods, from animals to plants, from planets to stars. So don't forget the roots where we belong.

Whatever affects one directly affects all indirectly" lines by -"Martin Luther King Jr".  It is in the roots, not the branches, that a tree's greatest strength lies. Set high-level benchmarks for the future generation. So, people "Celebrate globally but don't forget to stay local". Being Indian we believe in "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" & "Atithi Devo Bhava" but don't lack behind saying "Vande Mataram"......... 

Go Global - Stay Local........

Temple Diaries ( Part - 3 )

The third day in Madurai was relaxing and a shopping sphere. We bought a few famous Madurai Sungundi cotton sarees, a fabric which is made in the city of Madurai. That night we packed our bags and went to sleep early the next day journey was to one of my favorite destinations which cannot be missed en route Rameshwaram. Which has great mythological facts and history. Dhanushkodi, which is located at the southeastern tip of Pamban Island. It is located around 20km away from Rameshwaram. The name "Dhanush" literally means ' end of bow', which denotes the legend of Lord Rama and the Hindu sacred text Ramayana. One of the smallest towns in the world, with a length of just 50 yards, Dhanushkodi is the land border between Sri Lanka and India. It is around 15km away from Sri Lanka. The town has a vast stretch of beach, running up to 15km, which is surrounded by the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean on the other side. Dhanushkodi is also called the 'Last land of India'.

According to legend, Dhanushkodi is the place where Lord Rama, Lord Lakshmana Hanuman, and his vanara army had built a bridge to Lanka to rescue Goddess Sita who was under the captivity of the demon Ravana. This bridge was known as Ram Setu. After winning the war, Lord Rama won the battle and crowned Vibhishana, brother of Ravana, as the king of Lanka. Vibhshana later told Rama to destroy the bridge of Ram Setu, upon his request Lord Rama broke the bridge with the end of his bow. This is the reason why the place has been named Dhanushkodi, which means 'end of bow'. We enjoyed the drive watching the ocean on both sides while reaching the tip of Dhanushkodi. It was 5 pm, and we witnessed the mesmerizing sunset. One can see the TV tower of Sri Lanka which is only 15 km from Dhanushkodi. R was very happy to see the beauty of the ocean and was eager to play in the water. We were dropped off by the driver at a certain point where one needed to walk to reach the tip of the land. In that zone, there was no network and our phones were out of reach. 

Witnessing the vast huge never-ending ocean, there were no boundaries for my happiness. It made me feel tiny, humble and inspired. At sea, I learned how little a person needs. Not how much. After spending a nice time near the ocean, we all started towards KothandaramaSwamy temple, which is believed to be 500-1000 years old. This is where Lord Rama did the Pattabhishekam of Vibhashana after Ravana was killed in the war by Rama. This story is depicted in paintings across the walls inside the shrine. After blissful darshan, we walked 30-40 steps towards the sea which was connected to the Indian Ocean, opposite this temple, where one can see the stone which is kept in front of Shivling, which was once used by Hanuman and his vanara army to built Ram Setu. Even to this day these huge stones are preserved by the Government of Tamil Nadu and are kept for darshan. To our amazement even to this day, the stone floats in water. We all took darshan of this stone which was kept on our head for blessings. Isn't amazing. Later we visited our famous "Missile Man of India, Dr. APJ Kalam sir at, the central residence, which is a 10-minute walk from Rameshwaram. This house has been converted into a small museum with the photos and memorabilia of Kalam sir.

Later we reached our hotel which was a beautiful resort, and spent a relaxed evening, as the next day we got to visit the Rameshwaram temple. This temple is considered a holy pilgrimage for Hindus. Mythological accounts depict the presiding deity the Lingam of Ramanathaswamy (Shiva), as having been established and worshipped by Lord Ram before he crossed his bridge to the island of Sri Lanka, it is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites comprising Badrinath, Puri, Dwarka, and Rameshwaram. According to the Hindu epic - Ramayana, Rama was the 7th avatar of the god Vishnu prayed to Shiva here to absolve any sins that he might have committed during his war against the demon-king Ravana in Lanka. As per Shiva Purana, the jyothirlinga shrines are believed to be the places where Shiva is said to have appeared as a fiery column of light. Originally there were 64 jyothirlingas, of which 12 are considered sacred to Lord Shiva. Each of the 12 jyothirlingas sites is a different manifestation of Shiva. This was our 5th Jyothirling darshan. We wanted to have the best darshan of lord Mahadev, hence we opted for a VIP darshan, which includes MahaRudra Abhishek, along with the entire family. My parents, sis, and my family. My family R, myself, and N this was our 5th Jyothirling darshan. And this was one of the most mesmerizing darshan we ever had.

The next morning we all got up and were ready by 3.30 am. Yes, early morning. One of the temple people who helped us and was in charge of our darshan. We started towards the temple at 4.15 am. We opted for two darshans, one the "Spatika Mani" darshan which was a lifetime experience and should not be missed. In Rameshwaram temple, this Mani darshan is held in the early morning every day. This"Mani" is made of 'spatik', which is a precious crystal in the form of " Holy Shivling". According to legend, this is "Mani" of "Sheshnag" ( The snake on which Lord Vishnu rests). As part of the ritual, before the main darshan one has to do 22 kund (Wells) snanam (bath). This starts with Samudra snanam at Agri Theertham. It is believed that the first kund/theertham lies submerged under the sea. So we all reached this Agri Theertham at 4.30 am and took the holy dip. later entered inside the main temple to have an entranced darshan of 'Spatik' mani. Once we entered the main sanctum there were thousands of devotees to have this once-in-a-lifetime darshan. We entered the VIP darshan lane, and upon taking the ''Spatik'' mani darshan there were no boundaries to my happiness. I felt like a small feather in front of that glaze, the brightness of that mani darshan. Felt blessed.

After mani darshan, there comes the 22 kund/well snanam or bath. A medium-sized bucket of water is poured on the devotee's head before entering the main sanctum. All these kunds/theertham are inside the premises of the main temple. With my hands folded, head down, eyes closed and I continuously chanted" Om Namaha Shivay" and "Om Namo Narayanaya". Took the 22 Kund bath. I was worried after taking 22 kund snanam, R should not catch a cold or cough. I was in the middle of my anticipation when the man poured a bucket full of water over me, in the early morning hours, my clothes got wet and heavy and my body felt light. I didn't feel the water was cold. There was so much energy through my head to toe, that I was getting goosebumps all over my body. This phenomenon is to be repeated 21 more times to complete the 22 kund snanam. R was jumping in joy holding an empty bottle on his head which I had carried to collect all those 22 kund water back home. Every time the water was poured bottle was filled. Holding my dad who is in his late 70s, and a great Mahadev bhakt. He had tears in his eyes and chanting Har Har Mahadev. My sis was holding my mom, who was on a race to reach the kund/well. Since we had taken VIP darshan there were hardly any people in Kund Snanam.

We all followed the directions of the person who was heading us through our darshan. The 22 kund water goes in this direction - firstly, Mahalakshmi theertham the one submerged in the ocean, followed by Gayathri, Savitri, Saraswati, Gavya, Gavyaksha, Nala, Neela, Sethumadhava, Gandhamadhava, Brahmahatya, Vimochana, Shanku, Surya, Chandra, Chakra, Shiva, Sarva, Satyamrita, Gaya, Ganga, Yamuna and finally Kodi. It is believed that sprinkles from Kodi theertham are equivalent to taking a dip in the holy Ganges. As I moved from one Kund to another, I had an observation that the temperature and salinity of the water kept changing. While the water was mostly warm, the taste varied from neutral to sweet. Every Kund has a green board that shares anecdotes from the epic Ramayana which talks about sins washing off your body. The Kund has been arranged in such a way that by the time you come to the 22nd Kund, you are absolved of all the sins. After taking 22 Kund baths we all were drenched from head to toe. We were told especially not to take tap water baths at least for that day. And then let the body soak in the holy water and all its healing properties. 

After 22 Kund snanam, we all changed our clothes and started towards the main Sanctum where arrangements were made for our MahaRudra Abhishek. Verses from the Rudram Chamkam were chanted by two pandits. We all sat and did pooja and started towards the main scantum holding Kalash in hand filled with milk. I had taken Ganges water which was bought from Gomuk, which is in UtarKashi of Gangotri glacier by my BIL. It is believed that lord Mahadev will be pleased with whoever gets the Ganges from Gomuk the starting point of the Ganga in the the Himalayas. After 22 Kund snanam, we all felt calm and peaceful and felt light and more conscious in the present moment. One has to witness this once in a lifetime. We along with my entire family watched the Abhishek to Lord Ramanathswamy from Ganges water and milk, all chanting Har Har Mahadev, my heart was pounding nonstop with the energy looking at lord Ramanathswamy. Every person under the roof was chanting some or the other verses. In that chaos, I felt so much peace in my heart. I found myself standing alone in front of the gleaming Shiv ling, As I got a nudge to move forward I saw Shiv ling and closed my eyes to capture it. Thank the lord for making this life clear from all the sins that we did knowingly or unknowingly and for starting a fresh life with a lot of positivity, contentment, love, and belongingness with my entire family.

After having a blissful darshan we were handed over the flower mala and prasad by the pandit who was with us on this entire journey and walked towards the exit of the temple. It was 7.30 am and we were out of the temple witnessing the best darshan of our lifetime. While walking towards exit we used to halt every 2 minutes to admire the architecture of the temple with 1000 colorful pillars and ceilings adorned with depictions from epic Ramayana. Time to start towards our hotel as we had 3 hour's drive to Madurai where we had to catch our train to back home to Bengaluru. I thanked and prayed for all his blessings which go far beyond anything we could ever dream of. I thanked god for protecting me from what I thought I wanted and blessing me with what I didn't know I needed. One should stop worrying about the potholes in the road and celebrate the journey because Life is a journey. Travel it well."

Concluding my Temple Diaries. Until I travel to a next expedition......

Temple Diaries ( Part - 2)

A temple visit is a reminder of the sacredness of time and the importance of spending it in meaningful ways. In the temple, we seek solace from the chaos of the inner world and find inner peace. Tamil Nadu has more temples than any other state in India. It is said Tamil Nadu is home to more than 400,000 Hindu temples and is aptly called " The land of temples". These temples are shining examples of our cultural heritage with the finest architectural creations that take you back to the Dravidian, Chola, and Pallava dynasties. Most of these temples were built in Medieval times. On our first day in Madurai, after Meenakshi amma darshan we visited Balaji temple and Kartikeya Swamy shrine which was a one-hour drive from Madurai city. These two temples are situated on the hills. We enjoyed the lovely evening pleasant drive, to our surprise Madurai weather was cool and windy due to rain. It was no less than Bengaluru weather, which was a blessing in disguise.

After having a soulful darshan we reached Madurai and had dinner in the famous outlet called " Sree Sabarees", who serve the yummy dosas, Idly, Vada. We all relished the food and went to sleep early since we had a 2 hour of journey the next morning. Our second day tour was to one of the most sacred temples. Tiruchirappalli is an ancient city in India's southern Tamil Nadu state. The Kaveri and Kollidam rivers flow around Srirangam Island. The Ranganatha Swamy is the main deity worshipped largely in this city. The temple and its artwork are subjecte to numerous different Tamil legends in regional Puranic texts. Srinranga Mahathmiyam, for example, is one of the compilations of the temple mythology about its origins. According to it, Brahma was performing austerities during the Samudra Manthana (churning of the cosmic ocea) , and Sriranagam Vimanam emerged as a result. It remained in Satyaloka for ages and was brought to Ayodhya by king Ikshvaku. After Rama, an avatar of Vishnu had killed the evil demon Ravana, he gave it to King Vibhishana who wanted to be with Rama. When Vibhishana passed through Trichy en route to Sri Lanka where he had become the king, the Srirangam Vimanam would not move from the island. So, he gave it to a local kind Dharmavarma, if the king consecrated the Vimanam to face the south cardinal direction eternally, blessing him and Lanka. Hence, it is that the diety (in a reclining posture) faces South, his body aligned to the east - west axis.

The temple complex includes over 50 shrines. These are dedicated to Vishnu, Lakshmi as well as Vaishnava scholars and poets. The shrine to Vishnu displays him in his various avataras, as well as his iconography. For example, Sri Ranganathaswamy temple shrines include those of Chakkaratalvar, Narasimha, Rama, Hayagriva, and Gopala Krishna. It was the 3rd day of Navratri, and expecting the crowd we took special darshan. Being a devotee of Lord Vishnu, I was thrilled and eager to get the darshan. At my home and my mom's house one can hear the hymes chanting from Vishnu Sahasranama morning and evening time. My mom regularly chants these scared hymes of Lord Vishnu religiously. Upon reaching inside the temple suddenly my mom's leg started hurting her so badly that she was barely able to walk. We along with my dad and R were almost   inside the line, mom and sis got stuck outside the line way to darshan. Mom was in great pain. We were very worried, seeing her in that condition, and were apprehensive thinking how she will get the darshan. But the Lord has his plans. Within a minute a guard came along with a police security who is in charge of the temple authorities took mom and sis from the special entry, and they both directly entered the main sanctum within minutes in front of us.We were in shock and were equally happy in joy, seeing this beyond belief happening. My mom walked and took the darshan of Lord Ranganatha Swamy and was in a teary eye with heart full of gratitude. This clearly shows the presence of God to his devotees who do his service without any expectations in return. Whenever God calls us for a task, he will equip us and enable us to complete that task.

I was in great hurry to get the darshan of the lord. Finally, we all reached the main sanctum and people chanted Govinda - Govinda. The main shirne of lord Ranganatha is in the innermost courtyard. The sanctum has a golden vimana (crown tower over the sanctum sanctorum). It is shaped like a Tamil Omkara (Om symbol), shows anthropomorphic Paravasudeva on its gable, has an etching of Ramanuja as well on it, and is plated with gold. Inside, a 6- metre (20ft) edifice of Rangantha reclining on Adisesha, the coiled serpent, can be seen. My heart was at the race the moment I saw the lord . There was no boundary for my happiness and I was outbursted with tears and emotion. Took a while for me to settle down. It happens when one's life journey is filled with almighty's blessing. When one focuses on being a blessing, God makes sure that you are always blessed in abundance. Indeed, it was a blessed darshan. We all took the prasad and started walking towards the exit, watching the beautifully carved pillars with detailed art.

India is rich in art and architecture, which is seen in the temples of India. Architecture is a visual art and the building speaks for itself. It is belived that this temple is the most illustrious Vaishnava temples in South India, rich in legend and history. Beyond the ancient textual history, archaeological evidence such as inscriptions refer to this temple, and these stone inscriptions are from late 100 BCE to 100 CE. Hence, making it one of the oldest surviving active temple complexes in South India.

After having a blissful darshan we all started towards the famous - Jambukeswararar Temple in Trichy. Jambukeswararar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located in Thiruvanaikaval in Trichy district and is one of the Pancha Bhoota ( 5 element temple). This temple is dedicated to the water element - Jambu Lingam. It is said to have been built by the early Cholas around 1800 years ago. It is one of the major 5 Shiva temples that represent five great elements. The temple represents the element "neer" which is water. True to its powers, the underground water stream at the sanctum of the temple is always filled with water, irrespective of any season. Underneath the Linga form of Shiva, a spring comes and is a divine gift of the God. In the temple one can witness Monolithic stone pillars and stone chains and12 zodiac signs which are beautifully carved.

A legend says this temple is endowed with 5 praharams. (corridor) As lord Shiva himself built the 5th praharam, appearing in the form of a spider, it is knownas " Thiruneettan Thirumathil". It is here lord Shiva blessed a spider and elephant to attain moksha. I feel so proud of the ancient and mythological stories of our temples, devotees are blessed both in this birth and next birth. One who worships Goddess Ahilandeswari will be blessed good education and intelligence, marriage, and wishes for a child to be fulfilled. By coming around the fifth divine wall known as "Thiruneettan Thirumathil" one's wish will be fulfilled. By this, we covered one of the Pancha Bhoota temples - dedicated to water element.

On our way back to Madurai, with a heart full of gratitude and blessing, watching the bright blue sky and open fields, those long open roads, I was enjoying the journey and felt so content and happy. I believe in creating happiness rather than looking for it through other means. Because very little is needed to make a happy life. A warm hug, elders blessings, a child's love towards his mother, loving family, and grace follow you.

To be continued......