How to increase literacy rate of a country with special emphasis on rural areas including girl child and minority communities?

Answer

 Best Answer:  We in India have more than 70% population living in rural areas. These people have to be educated about the need of education for their cohesion and adjustment with the educated people living in the urban and metropolitan cities in this highly surcharged atmosphere of competition. In order to teach more people, we have to reach more people; especially in rural areas. Although Government aided and  run educational schools and colleges are fulfilling the needs of the populace, yet, there is a urgent need to enhance the educational pursuit through people oriented programmes. The following are some of the aspects which are to be taken into account for spreading literacy amongst the people.

a/ Making the people aware about the need of education  through print and electronics medias. 

b/ Opening more schools and colleges in the less accessible areas. 

c/ Provide reading and other educational aids’ including books to the needy. 

d/ Providing uniforms to the needy. 

e/ Provision of scholarship to the needy. 

f/ Picking up the meritorious students for higher studies from the rural areas. 

g/ Give specialized type of education to the physically challenged children/children with special needs. 

h/ Periodically monitor the educational standard of the people areawise and devise measures for its improvement. 

i/ Provide grant-in-aid for needy for meeting needs arising out of educational pursuit. 

j/ Provide computers and other modern electronic aids for the schools. 

k/ Proper training and education for the teachers for making the educational pursuit a successful venture. 

l/ Make the people aware about teaching women folks with a view that if we teach a girl you teach a family as a whole.

m/ As far as possible make educational pursuit possible for adults also so that they could also assimilate in the society and get benefits that are accrued.

n/ Those amongst us who could not educate themselves due to some reason or the other, starting special classes for them so that they adjust with the society as a whole. NGOs should chip in for this.*

*Literacy rate of any country depends  on the facilities available in the forms of schools/educational institutions, needful infrastructure for these (study rooms, proper and clean toilet facilities – separate for boys and girls,  adequate number of trained teachers proportional to the students  so that individual necessary playing equipment/toys for specially needed children (for varieties of disabilities) with physiotherapist and specially trained teachers who could meet the needs of these gifted  children etc.

 

In rural India, there is a need of girls’ education because there is wide disparity in the literacy rate of boys and girls. It is well known fact that when we educate a girl, we educate the entire family as such because the child in the initial stage of growth and development, first lesson is imparted by the mother and if she is educated she can amply do so. Illiteracy of the females negatively impacts the entire family to which she goes after marriage. If she is literate and well educated besides cultured one; well versed in value system including traditional modes of behaviour then she can conveniently transfer/impart that value system to her children which doubtlessly will help afterwards in life when a child grows up and faces life. The sluggishness in females’ education could better be removed through the joint and sincere efforts of Government and parents. Efforts should also be made to convince the parents to send the girl child for necessary schooling.  An idea should be spread that both boys and girls need education for adjusting in the life. More so for girls for they have to assimilate themselves in different sort of environments after their marriage. Though in urban and metropolitan cities the literacy rate of girls has improved manifold yet in rural areas there are glitches like non-availability of more schools, teaching staff and other requisites like sanitation etc for girl students which need to be attended urgently.  More funds should be provisioned by the Government for infrastructural and other provisions in the rural areas.  If rural area with more population is awaken through literacy then the country as a whole will have inclusive progress.

Apart from giving fillip to education to girls, there is an urgent need of enhancing literacy rate amongst minorities along with attending to the caste related problems impacting their education. It has been experienced that children from these communities although enroll in the school in first standard but their dropout rate is too high because of factors like financial stringency due to poverty of parents, school available at far off places and available schools do not have trained and efficient staff including non-willingness on the parts of parents to send their children to school etc. Rather they would like their children, in many cases, to follow the parents’ traditional profession to meet the family financial needs. Actually absolute poverty too deters the pursuit of educational pursuits in the rural areas. Though Government is making efforts in educating the rural masses the need of education through publicity campaign and by opening new schools and bridging the gap yet still more needs to be done.

 

 

 

 

WILLPOWER (SANKALAP) MAKES HUGE DIFFERENCE IN OUR LIFE

STRENGTH OF WILL

When faced with discouraging state of affairs

With no breather in sight anywhere

Thence we’ve not to go afar for succor

For sure, it lies within us only

Just tap softly

Thy deepest recesses of  heart

Thee will hear a voice so tranquil

Keep heart, problems are created to be solved

Challenges are formed to be challenged

Sometimes with calmness

Other times with iron handedness

Fright from knotty situations

Is no longer any solution

Fighting head on firmly

 And acting  resolutely

Are the driving forces actually

Which will bestow God Speed to our sincere efforts finally

Because resolute mind will result in resolution

Of the vexing problem so faced

Approach of solution may slightly differ

From time to time and situation to situation

And Individual to individual per se

But we can hardly shy or run away  

From the catch-22 situation of our own creation.

Without a modicum of fight for a plausible solution

Yes, for every problem under the sun

There is a credible solution

It’ll not be found by being fearful

Self belief and belief on our Creator

Are the two likely helpful factors.

 

WILLPOWER (SANKALAP) MAKES HUGE DIFFERENCE

Willpower (Sankalap) is determination with which we undertake to perform our duties with single mindedness of purpose and with focused attention for fructifying the job in hand.  The trait of willpower can be learnt and imbibed by following a life of sincerity, with sheer dedication, following a disciplined life and above all with self-awareness that whatever Karma we perform will come back to us. Kukarma brings about bad results and good Karma results in favourable results. Strength of will is generated by harnessing our internal potentials. In other words, willpower is the strength of our mind.

WILLPOWER GIVES US STAYING POWER

Yesterday, I was feeling very hot because of typical weather condition; hot and humid state with surging temperature; and there no rains for the last many days made the weather still hotter. Walking in the hot sun was virtually very difficult with no respite from the scorching heat. In this sort of sultry environment, people usually sit in the comforts of their AC rooms or in AC offices to escape from the fury of high temporary. But travesty of fact is that we can sit in the comforts of air conditioned environment all the time because we are constrained to perform our various duties for our family or to face the realities of life head on.

While walking, in the hot sun, feeling all the affects of heat, drenched in perspiration, my eyes got riveted on two labourers who were mixing cement, concrete with hot sand. I wondered how those people were working in the hot sun without any complaints. There was not even an iota of feeling or regret about the pestering and persistent heat! This made me to reflect that everything – heat or cold, good or bad is in the domain of our mind. If one determines to withstand anything and everything there is no limiting factor. In other words our mind limits our perspective.

WILLPOWER AND NATURAL LIVING

It is also a fact that if we live just naturally, face what it comes, as per the time and space then we may not face any difficulty. A person who lives naturally live without any fear. He has his defences ready for meeting any contingency as it come rather than waiting for its resolution. Waiting for solving any problem means procrastination and that is one of the worst thing that could happen to us.

WILLPOWER DEVELOPED IN THE CHILDHOOD STAGE ITSELF

It must be remembered that the foundation of willpower is developed in the childhood itself by the parents. They should ensure that their offspring express their problems themselves fearlessly, act without fear and also should be taught to face the challenges of life without inhibition. Along with this, they should also be taught when to withdraw and when to fight it out. In the latter stage of life they grow up to be youth men with confidence.

WITH WILLPOWER AND BELIEF IN OUR ISHWARA WE CAN DO WONDERS IN OUR LIFE

A few days back there was an accident of one of our female teachers – the best computer teacher who with her changed the destinies of her students. She exercised control over her class and her felicity of expression created immense interest in the students which spoke volumes on her  lesson planning and delivery, encouraged students to ask questions and clear their doubts and made even the most difficult lesson easy to to comprehend. Obviously the students waited with bated  breath for her period.

It so happened that a cab driver, in an inebriated condition, hit  scooter which was being driven by her husband. She fell down the scooter, the cab driver did not stop but to the contrary dragged her for quite sometimes in the process creating grievous injuries to her person. This heartless inhuman person did not stop his cab even after injuring her severely. She was taken to hospital in an unconscious condition and admitted in Intensive Care Unit. Despite her most critical health state, she exhibited her strength of mind coupled with staying power and showed improvement signs from day one of her admission in the hospital. This could happen only with the blessings of WAHE GURU JI with whose blessings and graces unpredictable could happen.  He is the One who generates will to survive for His creations – that is what I can sermon.

YOGA HELPS US TO DEVELOP OUR WILLPOWER

It has rightly been said in Bhagwad Gita that our willpower is developed through Yoga, which is related to physical, mental and spiritual practices. It sustains our life by providing willpower in the mode of goodness. Willpower is the strength of our mental power and assists us to pull on despite hurdles that come in our path. Our determination also keeps us focused on our destination and helps gather together our inner potentials of inner self to achieve our higher goals in life.

Through the practice of Yoga, we develop three types of determination. We learn to exercise control our mind thereby our senses and subsequently our body. With the control over senses, we can exercise control over our life’s activities. We can thus perform Sattvic deeds (mode of goodness) rather than being Tamsic or Rajstic.

CONFIDENCE IN OUR OWN SELF

Confidence is the belief or reliability that we possess in ourselves. We have this trust when we are self aware. Self aware means to know our pluses and minuses. Then we endeavour to turn our minuses into pluses with self effort. It may be through trial and error method. Failures will surely be there but with persistent efforts and with grace of God minuses will turn into pluses. In this pursuit, we should not forget that some hurdles will be coming in the way and those are to be surmounted with self belief and self assurance. If we have indomitable belief in our abilities we will certainly succeed. While we have gained our self confidence to a limit, our effort should be to experience more and learn more from the experiences. Ultimately will shall have will take on any situation or circumstance. This is due to willpower (Sankalap) that is gained over a period of time. Having gained willpower hardly means that we turn egoistic about it. We can attain peace only when success does not overpower of head. Success should not go to our head. Experiences and success in life should make us humble.

Holy Quran proclaims: And, indeed, long ago We made Our covenant with Adam; but he forgot and We found no firmness of purpose in him.

One of the best trait for creating resolute mentality comes by adopting sincerity, honesty and doing one’s duty with dedication without fear or favour.                

FOLLOWING SPIRITUAL ORIENTED LIFE BRINGS ABOUT RESOLUTE MINDSET

Spiritual inclined life means to follow a life with or without religious orientation but with purity in knowledge, purity in thoughts and actions without any fear, purity in perception, purity in desire, with compassion for others etc. In other words, whatever path a spiritualist takes follows truthfully, without any inhibition, with positive attitude, with a sense of sacrifice, giving without any expectations, performing duties with fervor and also contributing holistically for growth of body, mind thus help reform himself/herself meaningfully. When we live in spiritual oriented life, then we can have enough willpower to face life’s challenges with all the potential at our disposal.

It has rightly been said in Holy Bible that the the Lord is my strength and my shield, my heart trust in him and he helps me , my heart leaps for joy and with my song I praise him.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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ON PATIENCE IN OUR LIFE

ON PATIENCE IN OUR LIFE

Patience is a state of being when we  tolerate other unethical attitudes and behavior coolly, when no situation or no irritant can affect us, when no pain or suffering could adversely impact our equanimity, when we do not feel angry on others irritating demeanor, etc. Besides, it is a condition when we do not complain others’ provocations but face the facts squarely. Patience despite irritants is a proof of patience.

PATIENCE SHOULD SPRING FROM OUR INNER SELF

It should always be remembered that patience springs from our inner being. It is not an external show of self-control but in actual practice it is not so when tested on ground. We must have seen some people feeling restless on silliest pretext and make spectacle of themselves in front of others. 

IMPATIENCES AND ITS CONSEQUENCES

We can imagine the predicament how impatience works while one is provoked by as flimsy ground due to sudden grazing of two vehicles  in the traffic jam and resultant flare up leading to even deaths due to one firing the other occupant! There are so many instances when we go lose our patience and in anger do something which may lead to unpredictable consequences.

OUR YOUTH & PATIENCE

We know what can impatience can result. At times, it could not only result in loss of face but worst of it all, could prove to be fatal if the other party too behave impatiently. There are the cases where people have lost their lives on petty and inconsequential matters.

PEOPLE WORKING IN THE PUBLIC GLARE SHOULD HAVE RESERVE OF PATIENCE

Experience is a guide to prove that those people who work for the welfare of the general populace, including politicians,  should have sufficient reserve of patience, tolerance, perseverance and willpower to work hard to come to the expectations of the general masses for which they are working.

I had the personal experience in this context a few days back. I had gone to meet our Area Councilor, for lodging a complaint related to a civic matter for propagating the idea of Swachh Bharat. Unfortunately, the concerned Area Councilor had gone to meet some other commitment in the other locality. I observed that a young man (named Mr. Paras Chopra – the son of the Area Councilor) was entrusted with the responsibilities of solving the civil/general public related issues viz, pension to the aged and infirm, register different complaints of public and order on the spot instantly for solution / deliverance.   

I was obviously impressed by this young man’s tenacity in handling / attending to different complaints besides contacting different officials for fructifying their different tasks. It was about 1:30 PM, I learnt that he so much so he was engrossed in his duties that he had not taken even his breakfast! He attended my complaint, ordered the concerned person to look after the complaint. Low and behold, the person concerned reached the spot before I reached the spot! Praiseworthy indeed! The amount of patience and persistence along with tenacity he exhibited was obviously laudable. I appreciate his patience and am very sure that he will reach a pinnacle of success; while rendering help to the general masses. Two hoots for this young man. India needs such young blood for rendering welfare measures. If we nurture such young men they will grow to be proficient personalities who are compassionate and patiently and persistently handle public related welfare measures.

PARENTS AND THEIR OFFSPRING

It has also been experienced that while teaching our children the importance of value system, the parents have to follow nitty-gritty of cool composure and tolerant attitude; leaving annoyance in the back-burner of our mind. It is because what the parents transfer to their offspring counts a lot. Parents are the first Gurus of their children and It should always be remembered by the parents that giving quality time to their progeny with patience and persistence becomes a first step in shaping the destinies of their children. They should try their best to instill patience and other related value systems in their children.

PATIENCE REQUIRED IN FINALIZATION OF BUSINESS DEALS

We also must have observed the people losing themselves while negotiating an important deal in business sphere, where cool temperament could go a long way, slightest impatience could impair the smooth clinching of negotiations and may prove counterproductive.

PATIENCE SHOWN BY TEACHERS FOR SLOW LEARNERS IN SCHOOLS

Then in our schools, the teachers have to show exemplary patience with their students who are slow learners. There are students who learn very fast, there are ones who require some prodding for their studies while there are ones who require considerably more time and attention to make them understand the topic to be taught. Here the teachers have to have adequate patience, persistence along with honest efforts to make them study and make it possible to make them at par with intelligent  students.

STUDENTS FROM LOWER STRATA OF LIFE TO MAKE CONCERTED EFFORTS TO REALISE THEIR DREAMS

As in this age group there is a lot of impatience and and irritation at any sorts of provocation, the youth are to be trained to face hardships and come out unscathed. Patience is the state of endurance or tolerance under stressful situations and circumstances. The youth of today have to be trained to act despite When provocations to this age group do not deter the youth from making this age group steadfast, possessing forbearance when under umlauting circumstances.

YOUTH AND IMPATIENCE

The youth is a period when there is prevalence of impatience in whatever they want to perform, to do something spectacular, liveliness, they showcase a lot of excitement in whatever they do, exhibit the traits of fearlessness despite some hurdles etc. This is also an age when there is also prevalence of defiance. But one common meeting point is that in this age they are full of energy. Need is to adopt ways and means to channel in the right direction for getting maximum benefits. The latent energy in the youth should be utilized for productive pursuits rather than destructive ones.

HOLY  QURAN PROCLAIMS: Seek Allah’s help with patient perseverance and prayer. It is indeed hard except for those who are humble.

REACTIONARY TRAITS

It has also been said that at this age, generally, the youth are reactionary in nature; reasonably or unreasonably sometimes. Given this point, our emphasis should to know and understand them fully and visit different options in order to reorient their attitude to play a more positive and constructive role as a student first, learner and a good citizen who has to shoulder the multiple responsibilities after his youth stage is over.

There may be initial hiccups or drawbacks but with since and best efforts youth could contribute not only for their growth and development but also set an example for others around.

In one of the forums, when I persisted that we can conveniently persuade this age group people to contribute positively not only for themselves but also for others around. One of the gentlemen was skeptical about change in frame of mind of the youth of the day because of his experience posed me two questions:   viz: 1. what makes you so sure that the advice given by you is right. 2. How do you know that your advice is even wanted?  To which I replied:

 I am of the view that if we make concerted and sincere efforts to understand the youth fully, including the environment in which they are living, we can make huge difference for their all round growth and development.  As older members of the society, we  may differ in our views based purely on the experiences gained over the years with youth. But one meeting point is that in this age persons concerned are full of energy; but this energy has to be channeled in the right direction for getting maximum benefit. There may be initial drawbacks but with best efforts youth could contribute not only for their growth and development but also be an example for others round. Now, coming to your questions:

 Second question: As far as the question of my advice being wanted or no? Although this is a hypothetical in nature yet, I can say with conviction that we have to first understand the environment in which the target youth are living including other particular problems faced by the group. Know these, gives us cursory overview. One can be in the category of ‘wanted’ , if we are sympathetic to the needs and also one has to have magnetic force in the person concerned. If I say that I’ve changed youth, but in my life while working in educational institutions, I have taken care of this age group and they have willingly come to discuss their problems and with God’s grace things worked out fine.

HOLY BIBLE SAYS: The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.

YOUTH AND SPIRITUAL ORIENTATION

Given that the youth is a period when they feel impatience and  annoyance at slightest provocation, it is   important that their latent energies are utilized in right direction. For this, they should be inspired for following a spiritual oriented life means to follow a life with or without religious orientation but with full conscious of  purity in knowledge, purity in thoughts and actions without any fear, purity in perception, purity in desire, with compassion for others etc. In other words, whatever path they follow, they follow truthfully, without any inhibition, with positive attitude, with a sense of sacrifice, giving without any expectations, performing our duties with enthusiasm and also contributing holistically for upliftment of body, mind and soul and enduring peace and re-formation of life.

BHAGWAD GITA TELL US: Lord Krishna tells Arjuna that there are three modes of the material nature; goodness, passion and ignorance, become self realized, possess pure spiritual consciousness and perseverance and patience.

 

 

 

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ON REMAINING MINDFUL IN OUR LIFE

 

ON REMAINING  MINDFUL IN OUR LIFE

Mindfulness is akin to awareness about anything and everything that transpires in life. If we are mentally strong and fully aware of our thoughts and actions thereof then result will always be positive. This will also save us of stress and strains of life.

Mindfulness and awareness are therefore inter-connected. It relates to our inner state. It is internal state which is instinctive in nature. Here consciousness has little or no role but it could be termed as extended consciousness. It is because the awareness is away from the capacity of  brain, its thoughts and understanding of brain. A condition of being aware means to know. It is integration of sensations from the environment and relates to goals and feelings for the overall benefit of the person concerned.

If we want to feel good and feel happy presently and make it a priority then we can surpass any hurdle that may crop up. In this state, we are empathetic towards others and at peace with ourselves.

Past is the time which has passed, dead presently and will not come back along with its happenings which had happened cannot be retrieved. It is like a deadwood with no hope to come back. We cannot rewind or reverse the past time. We can term it dead past. We can only reminisce the happenings, good or not so good which have happened thereby get experience of all those happenings. But a word of caution, we should not remain too much attached to those happenings of the dead past.

In the similar manner, the future is uncertain. It can only be imagined presently but cannot be lived presently / now but the seeds of future could be sown truly in the present moment. Here comes the persistence in remaining steadfast despite hurdles to work sincerely at the present moment with total belief on our Ishwara. Mindfulness at the present moment for the following brings about paradigm shift in our approach to lifestyle. 

If we are aware that present is the only time we are truly having then we can change our thoughts from negative – away from feelings of unhappiness, bereft of anger or frustration. These feelings take place when we live the present moment without regard to dead past and unpredictable future. We can be mindful at the present moment.

BEING MINDFUL HAS THE FOLLOWING IMPLICATIONS:

·       Internal  experiences in mindfulness. Mindfulness brings us closer to our inner self as these happenings are taking at  this moment itself. This could conveniently be done through meditation and other mind boggling positive practices.

 

·       Mindful make it possible to retract from wrong steps in life. When we have imbibed the quality of mindfulness, we then are in total control of our mind and whenever we take a wrong step our inner cues prevent us from retracting our steps and follow the right course.

 

·       Mindfulness helps us cultivate positive attitude. As we perform all the tasks in hand mindful of its consequences, we always remain positive in our approach with positive attitude.

 

·       Mindfulness is not difficult. In order to be mindful, we have to be positively oriented in our actions and deeds which results in ease of doing our duties without any doubt.

 

·       Mindful for joy in giving. It has rightly been said in Bhagwad Gits, when we meet others needs, we are actually fulfill our humane duties as human beings. Joy of giving gives us satiety and a purpose to our life. Mindfulness gives us wherewithal to help others not only financially but also psychologically too.

 

·       Harmony with reality. We all should live in harmony with nature, with the people we are living besides harmony which helps us understand and make us aware of own self.

 

In Bhagwad Gita it has been said that one who is mindful of his  thoughts and deeds attains peace. He enters any place without creating any disturbance just when river enters ocean without any disturbance. And also, one who does not heed material possessions attains peace of mind.

 

·       Importance of present moment. Present moment is infinitely important. What happens now is more important than what will happen in near future or what had happened in the past.

 

·       Prevention of helplessness for mental and emotional responses. Since we are mindful of the our duties and responsibilities we face no difficulty when some unpredictable happening takes place.  Lack of helplessness and control over our emotions results in peace and tranquility in our life. In such contingency life becomes a challenge, admix of good and bad experiences.

 

·       Focused mentality and productive thoughts could be attained through mindfulness. It should never be forgotten that marriage of focused mentality with productive thoughts lead to positively oriented lifestyle which obviates chances of  creation of negative mindset in the concerned individual. 

 

·       Mindful of the fact that  nothing is permanent. Happy moments do not last long so are the bad moments. This assertion solidifies our resolve to live a life of mindfulness with all positive attributes attached with it all.

 

·       Thoughts are created once in our mind and made practical through our actions. Our thoughts are created in our mind and then put to use significantly for overall good of the person concerned and the people around that person. 

 

·       Life should be considered as sacred and should not be scared. Mindfulness provides us an opportunity to think that our thoughts are very dear to us and sacred ones to be put to use for living a meaningful life. 

 

This has been clearly mentioned in Holy Bible: All life is sacred. Human life is especially so. Protecting it is of utmost importance to God.

 

·       Mindful of others aspiration and needs. While being mindful of our own needs and aspirations, it is in essence, important that we do so for others as well. This increases our horizon of thoughts and actions thereof.

 

·       Mindful of forgiving and forgetting others misdeeds. It should always be remembered, we as humans are not perfect, there is always something wanting. Therefore, it is essential that while performing our duties we are not unmindful of others’ needs and whenever and wherever we can we should forget and forgive others slip-ups. This has been mentioned in all the religious scriptures of all the religions.

It can rightly be concluded that mindfulness is linked with general well-being of an individual besides helping the individual to lead a healthy, moralistic and ethical life.It should always be remembered that Dharma and Karma which we adopt at the present moment

 

Holy Quran gives great importance while it emphasizes that mindulness is to shield oneself from all that displeases Allah. The mindfulness of faith (iman) is to shield oneself from eternal punishment through faith. The mindfulness of submission is to shield oneself from sin through obedience.

 

On the other hand, if we remain unmindful presently, it goes to show either we are living in the dead past or imagining about the unpredictable future for amelioration of our present state of affairs. Living in past and future without caring for present moment can bring about disharmony and a life bereft of peaceful existence.a

 

ETERNAL HUMAN VALUES FOR ALL THE RELIGIONS

RELIGION

Religion is entwined in sacred intention,

Based basically on the firm affirmation,

That fair-play and compassion

For needy should form the basis

Of our all encompassing efforts

Different religions as various pathways

Lead us to a common Source

And unite us all with Almighty God

No single pathway has shortcut for Divine touch

Each pathway has to follow exterior and intrinsic value systems

In order to connect with out Ishwaraji

The Holy Principles – of the Bible, The Gita, The Quran, Sri Garanth Sahibji,

Magnetize the humankind equally with sermons

Dearest to  the Omniscient

Religion teaches us the lessons

In truth, kindness, love and non-violence

And the reward for it all the sincere efforts is total bliss.

Thence we share our bliss with our fellow beings

For upliftment of faith and tradition pervasive,

And to harmonize diverse mentalities,

Mode of mind is religion,

And there are manifold hues of minds as manifold religions

When minds are confused and stop working logically.

Religion let  the clock of mind to tick on

And makes it possible to work in unison

For the benefits of its adherents.

Indelible ink of religion imprints hold ideals in us all

Our barren minds gets fertile

By the torrents of currents of religion

And we learn to live righteously.

Fragrance of holy ideas get spread

And the devil in us gets vanquished

Dehumanized souls are humanized

For ultimate good of mankind

With the benevolence of our compassionate Omnipotent..

ETERNAL HUMAN VALUES FOR ALL THE RELIGIONS

PURPOSE OF RELIGION

The main purpose of a religion is to unite humans with the source. Religion, in its broader sense, not merely delves on the SOURCE but also studies about human relationships, self awareness / self realization, morality, ethics, humanism, compassion etc. for the overall good of humanity.

There are organised religions such as Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, etc. Through religions, we learn highest values; compassion, deeper connection with spirituality including inculcation of positive attitude. With it, we shed the wrap of negativity from our system. Along with spiritual forward journey, the religion teaches us about sense of belongingness with social interaction and a sense of belongingness.

SELF ESTEEM BY FOLLOWING RELIGIOUS PRINCIPLES

The feeling of self esteem and self worth could also be learnt from the religion. Following the principles enshrined in different texts, rituals along with meditation / prayer can provide healing touch to our mind and body. Although spirituality could be pursued without leaning towards any particular religion yet religion becomes a means to an end – liberation or Moksha.

HOLY BIBLE PROCLAIMS: For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?

KNOWLEDGE AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH

It has been observed that today, we aspire more on physical growth besides are in the quest for more knowledge in different fields. This knowledge may be for our personal growth in the hierarchy of career growth or pursuit of wealth. In that hunt, we conveniently forget about spiritual growth.

INTRINSIC VALUES LEANT THROUGH SPIRITUALISM

A life full of love, beauty, kindness, truth and purposeful activities, related to intrinsic values bestow us inner peace and balance in our life. These provide us fortification for against any downtrend in our growth and development. It also provides us avenues to seek happiness thus lead a harmonious life in a positive partnership with our Creator and fellow beings. By following a spiritual life, we remain contented, cheerfully while living within the complexities of life and that too with self esteem while respecting others privacy. Ethical living and spiritual enlightenment alone can bring about total transformation in one’s material life of material achievements by enabling him to become a human being in a true sense of term.

BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE THROUGH VALUE INCULCATION

The purpose of human being is to get better quality of life along with peace and tranquility. While living a purposeful life, it is also mandatory that he is free from exploitation. Besides progress externally, it is paramount that he a person gets spiritually awareness for a total growth and development. For this, integration of physical science (external aspect) and spiritual science (internal qualities) is a must for growth and development related to physical culture, mental culture and soul culture are the areas which are required to be taken care of.

HOLY QURAN ENUNCIATES: The inherent moral sense in a human being allows him to
recognise what is true and good from what is false and evil.

HUMAN VALUES HAVE COMMON THREAD IN ALL THE RELIGIONS. ALL THE RELIGIONS HAVE THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERISTICS:-.

 

• RIGHTEOUSNESS. Righteousness is the intrinsic human values. For establishing a balance in our life, it is in essence necessary to follow ethical norms and code of conduct which make our life meaningful. By following right principles, we can make our balanced personality. It makes our life purposeful and we love to live life in whatever forms – happy or unhappy situations. Balanced mind is the one which follows and takes right course, following right principles such as being mindful of others’ needs, cooperating with others, be courageous in facing difficult situations, control over our emotions, having traits of head and heart, following faithfully the right path, not be influenced by false promises, keeping words, be tolerant despite provocations, having right vision and mission and make concerted efforts in fructification of that mission etc. besides doing everything with the active participation of God. That sort of a person loves the spirit of harmony and cooperation in all the ventures we undertake.

• BEING EGOLESS. Ego is AN enemy number one of a person. A person under its influence leads a life full of selfishness, always is of the opinion that whatever he possesses is due to him only. What sort of ways he adopts in life, good or unethical does not affect that person. He lives a life bereft of humility. Justice and fair-play. He is more attached to his possessions than anything else in life. He does not discriminate what is right and what is wrong. There is no spirit of sacrifice in such a person but on the other hand he would like to have his own way in getting what he wants. He is intolerant and unsympathetic towards others. His integrity is always in suspect. We following the negative trait of egocentricity if we are irreleligious.

• NON-VIOLENCE. It is following a course of action without resorting to violence or coercion for getting things done in our faour. It is basically non use of force or on the principles of kindness and consideration of others’ viewpoint. It is based on respecting others opinions, without ill-will, greed, respecting others beliefs and faiths, following disciplined lifestyle, rejecting all that is bad, adopting all the positive traits in life, being fearless in thoughts and action thereof, that person does not fear what he does since that action is not beyond the ambit of decency. Mahatma Gandhi followed the life of non-violence and also influenced others too to follow the same. A man with the qualities of non-violence leads a life full of truth with love for all.

• HUMANE VALUES. It is based on right conduct for the benefit of humanity. It is based on selfless service without any expectations from others. We should not discriminate others on the basis of religion, caste or colour. Love transcends every other trait. It is in fact a driving force which helps us in having humane life with humanistic outlook in our life. It is based on giving something to others without any expectations from others. Love is a motivating force which transforms our life and helps us for self-expansion through self-expression thereby changing our thinking and acting. It enhances goodwill and generates brotherly feeling in us. It also helps in transforming us to be sympathetic, feeling of kindness with selfless feeling along with a feeling of passion of spiritual love. Humanism is adoption of love as a trait for practical spiritualism. It is based on human compassion for others without any discrimination. For this, one has to have intense self-discipline, oneness of purpose, unflinching determination and intense self belief in God. The practical spirituality helps in self expansion which manifests from patience and unflagging belief in Divine force. For such a person, God could be connected anywhere and anytime. This could be possible when one has rendered service to humanity without any shred of expectations.

• LOVE IS ENNOBLING. Love is ennobling and enhances the stature and personality of a person and it is one of the best values that a person should possess. When we spread the message of love, we spread the message of goodwill and wellness. With it, we come to know about the values of truth and keeps ourselves away from all sorts of negativity. One who loves others, he becomes a embodiment of love and thereby attains spiritually oriented lifestyle, adopting purity of body, mind and soul along with purity in our thoughts and actions. But there are people who understand love synonymous with lust which is in fact debasing and egotistical in nature.

• TRUTH & RELIGION. There are two kinds of truths. Firstly it is the one which is perceived by our five senses and the other one is which is perceived by our by supersensuous power. The science wants things as empirical truth which religions link with transcendental truth. In olden times, the Rishis strived for personal experiences of absolute truth. Their pursuit truth is self realization. This could be attained by adopting moral and spiritual values through self discipline and adopting all those traits which help us realize the truth. When one realizes absolute truth, through spiritual knowledge, one is able to perceive absolute truth and presence of God in all the creations. For such a person, there is no attachment for any particular thing. With detachment, we remain in balanced state both in happy and sad situations.

 

• LIVING A HARMONIOUS LIFE. For the development of humans, it is necessary that we adopt a peaceful life. Peace is essential for leading a purposeful and happy life. It has been experienced that if a person is in peace, he can delve deep into the recesses of his heart thus imbibe positive attitude, humanitarian approach and also attitude with compassion for all, justice and fair-play for all, having the trait of common good or social conscience.

From the above, it could be concluded that all of us aspire for happiness based purely in right conduct through commitment of equity and social justice. For the growth and development individual requirement is peace within self and also for the development of the humans, peace, harmony and cooperation between humans is of utmost importance. The first requisite for establishing harmony and peaceful co-existence, we have to first of all develop inner peace first and then spread fragrance in our relationship, neighbours, society and above to all the humanity. For this purity of mind is an essential requirement. By self analysis and self restraints we can develop right attitude for following righteous thoughts and actions we can get divine light ultimately by following principles enshrined in different religions. 

BHAGWAD GITA STRESSED THE FOLLOWING AS THE HUMAN VALUES

• WELLBEING OF ALL. Seeking the welfare of all living beings; helping everyone as much as possible with an attitude of service
• REGULATION AND CONTROL OVER SENSE ORGANS. Regulation and control over the sense organs and the mind; quality insistence and quantity moderation in eating, sleeping, working, talking and sense indulgence
• DIGNITY AND HUMILITY IN ALL SITUATIONS. Having equanimity amidst the ups and downs of life; facing life with courage, perseverance, dignity and humility without being overwhelmed by failure or carried away by success

 

 

 

CERTAINTY OF DEATH

 CERTAINTY OF DEATH

A BUBBLE LIKE EXISTENCE

I was standing on balcony of my home, enjoying the pearl like tiny drop-lets of rain which were quenching the thirst of the parched earth and also putting life in the plants, birds and animals alike. Then after sometimes, small drop-lets, together transformed into running water, after filling the small pits and uneven portions of earth. It was a real sight to see. How rain water, even in small drops could amass and could change into a flowing water, a stream – in fact a genuine natural wonder!

Rain drops were falling on the running water, taking course of water for a while and then dying after coming into contact with an obstruction. Some bubbles survived and moved ahead but their end was sure to be there – somewhere after sometimes. It ignited my reverie. Is not man also like a bubble created by our Creator – a bubble like existence? The life force of a bubble is the air inside but the outer part is still delicate. It could smash while it is impacted against any sold object. Our life too is like a water bubble. It can survive till life-force remains. Life force within our body which gives the body form, life and meaning. Without it, we are just a deadwood. Our body too is not apart from its Creator. On the larger canvas, water could be considered as the means and rain drop the cause and end is the end result of all including the life force of our body as well as that of other creatures on this planet.

In essence, from the above, it could be construed that as the bubble could burst at any time or may be due to dissipation of life force or due to loss of enduring energy, some bubbles could sustain for sometimes, more than other bubbles, yet all bubbles have their end sooner than later. But for sometimes it has its journey within the confines of its source – the water. It has its turns and twists during its sojourn when it is in existence. Similar is the case with other creations of our Creator.

IN HOLY QURAN DEATH HAS BEEN DESCRIBED: So whoever desires to meet his Lord, he should do good deeds and not associate anyone in the worship of his Lord

Man too is created by our Creator and it too lives within the confines of its source but with a distinction that man has propensity to think and discriminate. Due to this potential, man ought to be more self conscious about his existence – that it is there till life force flowing in him is there in his system. He cannot survive even for a moment without this life force. Willpower, endurance and survival of the fittest keep a man afloat and kicking but these too dissolve after some time due to ageing.. This could be due to some accident or any other reason but all have to die  on ageing.

LORD SHIVA PREFERRED TO SIT IN THE CREMATION GROUND

Lord Shiva preferred to sit in the cremation ground because He understood entirely about birth, evolution and finally death. But those who live in self defence instinct do not want to think about death. They are of the view that life is merely living and enjoying. Deah does not come in their scheme of things. For such people, human life is just like working of a machine. A machine’s life ends after fair, wear and tear and similar is the life of some humans.

Lord Shiva thought that man could survive and live with minimum needs. He lived on fruits and herbs that are available in forests. He feels elated when Bel Patta and berries are offered at His Lingum. Creations could survive with minimum needs. Humans have a special trait of discrimination – distinguishing between what is right and what is wrong should also delve on the birth and death. Lord Shiva’s assistance is sought whenever a man is in dire need.

Lord Budha too wanted that humans should remember about death. Life follow different stages of death and finally death. That is taking birth, growing, developing and ultimately death. The people who believe in this theory do not believe in the idea of self-preservation. They do not fear death. Shiva also advised his disciples to focus on whatever to be done including contemplation.

NOBODY CAN ESCAPE DEATH

Even the incarnations of Prabhu Ji’s did not remain immune to this final destination – death. There is a story in Bhagwat Puran, Parikshit was the son of Abhimanyu and Uttara – only successor of Pandavas. He was saved by Lord Krishna from the Brahmaastra of Ashthathama. He is said to be a great ruler maintained the Dharma. One day he was very tired after hunting the wild beasts in the forest. He reached the Ashram of great seer Semeeka Maharshi while the Rishi was in deep meditation. Parikshit too felt bad and puts a dead-snake around the neck of the sage when under the ill-influence of Kaliyuga. When, Shrungi Rishi (the son of Semeeka Maharishi) saw this, he, in fit of rage, gave the king a curse. That in seven days Parikshit will die of Takshaka bite. Subsequently, when the sage comes back from his meditative trance and feels sorry for the curse. But what had happened cannot be retrieved. Now that Parishit was given seven days for living but are we given these many days for an assured life? No, fact is, we are not! But we conveniently forget this and do not want to even remember the imminence of death.

HOLY BIBLE PROCLAIMS: Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live.

OUR EGO PUTS A BLANKET COVER

A person under the influence of ego, which fogs our intellect, due to which we forget about the purpose of his life and we forget that he is corporeal – have to leave this planet whenever his time comes. After acquiring power and pelf, he is intoxicated with his possessions so much so that he forgets even his roots and origin and his final destination. Fact remains, our ego is a blanket cover which hides our real self.

SELF AWARENESS REMOVES IGNORANCE

Need is to be totally aware of existence and how we ought to live purposefully, respecting the laws and nature and also respecting the norms set by the society. When this awareness dawns, then the ignorance vanishes under its influence.

REINING IN OUR MIND

We do not want to remember our final destination simply because our mind is trained to ward off of turn away from this thought. Our mind, in fact is trained, to life and living and the intricacies which are experienced in our life. The water bubble like existence is conveniently forgotten.

It is a fact that the one who is born has to die one day. Time and place is not known to us. We want to avoid even talking about the idea of death because we are in perennial fear of death. We’ve to be fully conscious of death. Overcoming fear of death by contemplating it makes it possible to be devoid of any fear thus our attitude towards death and life will change.

Contemplation of death has the following benefits:-

(a) We become bereft of any fear and live a life full of care.

(b) We change our outlook on life and we live a positive oriented life.

(c) Knowing about death means, we know our final destination thus remain away from the lure of material possessions than what is required for our sustenance.

(d) Knowing about death means we have no attachment with the fruits of our actions.

(e) Contemplating about death means we shall endeavour to earn our living honestly and not adopt corrupt practices.

(f) Having awareness of death, we shall live a life full of peace and live all the stages of life with equanimity without fear.

(g) Knowing about death also means we imbibe positive traits in life. These may include love, compassion, empathy etc.

(h) We also would face difficulties of life with a sense of balance. No heightened feelings whenever adversity visits us.

(i) By following a life full of compassion for others, we shall feel ourselves as a living being with a feeling for others who are in pain and not a living body who feels for himself only.

(j) When we have the traits of following life with full intensity, then we adopt intensity for self awareness and for expanding our knowledge.

(k) By following a life which understands life and death eliminates or limits the influence of conditioned mentality about it all.

(l) When we know imminence of death, we also know about the other creations and also about our common Creator.
(m) Following life and its stages, we tend to follow a spiritually inclined life in our life and by doing so we remain connected with our Bhagwan Ji.

(n) And while we reach our final destination, we hardly feel any remorse or unhappiness since we know man is a mortal.

In Bhagwad Gits it has been mentioned : As a person gives up old and worn out garments and accepts new apparel, similarly the embodied soul giving up old and worn out bodies verily accepts new bodies.

ETERNAL SLEEP

After our earthy sojourn,

We mortals traverse to a world unknown,

Where to – guesswork abounds,

Some think, few are welcomed to enchanting Heaven,

And the others to burning ‘ghats’ of hell are thrown,

Depending solely on earthy deeds or misdeeds,

Ledger of which are assiduously maintained and screened.

Death is inevitable, then why gets afraid?

Death  is a stark-reality, then why get sad?

When parting with our kins so dear, finally,

During life too, we experience death in small ways routinely,

The one who has seen the dawn of the day,

Will surely see the dusk of the day.

A mistaken sense of pride,

Egged on by mistaken sense of permanence of life,

Spurs us to cling to this life so tight,

That sometimes, we forget the imminence of our end.

Which is so near but seemingly so far away from sight.

Earthy inning is quite alluring,

Parting with worldly possessions so paining,

Yet, in life, we ought to adopt righteous course,

Why fear, accept the change of garb with courage and without remorse,

A life filled with inner freedom is helpful,

Engrave this idea, eternal sleep is sacred and peaceful

Welcome the eternal sleep when it comes naturally with

open hands,

For this end is not the end of cycle of life and earth,

But a continuity of a play played by earthlings,

And supervised from His Heavenly abode by Supremebeing;

the one and the only one by whatever name you mention him.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ON TRANSPARENCY IN OUR THOUGHTS AND ACTIONS

 

TRANSPARENCY IN OUR LIFE

 

Whence our thoughts and actions

Are in sync with our intentions

Bereft of any lingering doubts

Whatsoever we do

We do in the glare of general public

With no hostility or dislike

For anyone under the sun

There is no corrupt practice followed

Purity in ideas and Karma thereof

Making the outcome most tasteful

For the proponent to cherish his deeds

For others too to observe indeed

The transparency of his accomplishments

Not merely monitored

By all and sundry but also by the Mysterious Authority

That adores us all.

Thence there are the individuals  

Who with their ill-intentioned actions – ku-karma

Lead a life with dual leanings

Feign transparency in their dealings

But in actual practice

It seemingly is bereft of any significance

Either to the person concerned

Or the people around

Who’ll anyhow will come know

Concerned person’s real intent.

 

TRANSPARENCY OF OBJECT AND TRANSPARENCY IN ACTION OF AN INDIVIDUAL

Transparency of an object is the property of that object to transmit light through it, so that bodies situated beyond or behind can be distinctly seen. In other words, transparent means to see through easily. Similar is the case with the transparency traits of an individual. In terms of transparent behavior is the one which could be easily understood or detected without much difficulty.

A person with transparent attributes is like a mirror – he does not hide anything.  His sincerity of purpose, essentially, could be observed by us with ease.

TRANSPARENCY FACTORS COMES INTO FORCE  WHEN THERE IS NOTHING TO HIDE

Transparency also means whatever is done is done within the glare of general public. It is a fact that whenever we hide something, it goes to show that we have something to hide. Or we do not want to share the information with others may be fearing reprisal from the parties concerned. Keeping information secret means there may be a hidden design. 

We find that in life, we see through a person’s intentions without doubt, when that person’s credentials are above board based  entirely on past practical experiences. Then we say that we have belief in his/her general behavior. Fundamentally when somebody’s intentions are pre-judged it could be construed as transparent intentions. It is partly due to the fact that there is no hideous design or plot or there is air of earnestness in a person’s stance. When an individual follows transparency principles, that has unquestionable integrity and follows aboveboard behavioural patterns in life.

TRANSPARENCY AND NORMS OF BEHAVIOUR

For a person with transparency traits, actions are to be performed anyhow and that too within the ambit of norms.
The transparency is the perceived trait of an individual to pass information voluntary without pressure and with clear vision. Transparency could be in working place, home within communities/societies and within the countries concerned for a common use. On the other hand when left hand does not know what right hand is doing, it is termed as bad practice. This is true in business too. In schools and colleges including the professional institutions, there are hidden charges or capitation fee being charged by these institutions’ This is not a healthy or not based on the percept of transparency.

GENERAL TRAITS OF A PERSON WHO FOLLOWS PRANSPARENT LIFE

(a) That individual walks with his/her head held high.

(b) Such person is above suspicion since his life is an open book and could be read by anybody at any time and place.

(c) Such person carries with him a positive aura.

(d) No pecuniary considerations can lure such person.

(e) A person with transparent attitude is never in doubt about his thoughts and actions.

(f) Such person never harms others because he is humane to the core and also compassionate in his dealings.

(g) Such persons never shirk from the responsibilities assigned.

(h) Persons with transparent trait fulfill the promises made.

(i) Their life is like a transparent plot which could be predicted without much difficulty.

(j) Life for a transparent individual is like a game; where winning and losing hardly matters, what matters is to play the game in the spirit of a game.

(k) As such person persons are clear in their viewpoints and opinionated , fair and frank /candid, people would like to take their assistance whenever there is a need.

(l) People with transparency carry with them an aura which outshines wherever they go.

(m) As transparency connotes openness in communication, people with transparent attitude are always accountable for their actions.

LACK OF TRANSPARENCY FACTOR IN OUR LIFE.

Importantly, it is worthwhile to mention that what lack of transparency could lead can be gauged from when all the tenets of transparency were flouted by Vijay Mallaya while taking loans from the consortium of banks, to the tune of Rs. 9,000. Though he was a Rajya Sabha MP yet rules and regulations have to be kept in mind while loaning out money; which unfortunately were thrown to wind. Charges of money laundering by him is a case in point. He had a loan from the consortium of banks to the tune of rs. 9,000/- but did not use the money for the purpose he had taken. Instead he siphoned off the money to his banks outside the country thereby proving to be a willful defaulter. Not to speak of this, he has flown out to England and a case has been going on against him for fraud and cheating and Government of India is trying for his extradition to India so that he faces the law of the land for his corrupt practices. He had shell companies which helped him to siphoned off the money he had taken on loan from various banks. Now that the money trail is crystal clear and transparent, he will have to face music.

The above instance, among others too, goes to demonstrate how come such an exorbitant amount was loaned out to him with lack of transparency, actually with tacit support of power that be including heads of banks. This case also shows how hideously the bank loans were granted uncaring for all the transparency factors and application of rules and regulations governing granting loans to the customers. In this case rules were bent to suit his requirements. Although Enforcement Directorate has filed charges on 14^th June 2017 against the defaulter but the culprit is sitting in the cozily residence in UK,  caring two hoots for the Indian law enforcement agencies.

Transparency principles calls for observing some norms of behavior to be taken into consideration:-

• Transparency in Governments. Politicians should show transparency in their actions.
• Transparency at Homes – between family members for ensuring harmony in the family.
• Transparency at Work Places. For cooperation and coordination for good results for the organization.
• Transparency in words and deeds in day to day life. This has to be done in order that people with whom we come into contact believe us.
• Karma is positive when there is transparent and above board. Our action speak for itself. When we are transparent, there is always positivity in our thoughts and actions.
• There is an air of optimism in our attitude and action thereof when our actions are open for scrutiny.

 

TRANSPARENCY CAUSED DUE TO ADVENT OF INTERNET & MOBILE ETC

We are living in the age of mobile phones, computers and in that internet with its multifarious functions. Private electronic communication through wiretapping or interpreting of email, whats app and phone calls have made it easier and possible to get required information as and when needed for ensuring transparency.  Ultra sensitive nano cameras has made eves-dropping possible with pinpoint accuracy which has made it possible to bring forth the secrecy of others by the law enforcing agencies working against the interests of a country. GPS has made it possible to locate a person’s location when required and when it is locating a criminal on run this system has proved its worth for the law enforcing agencies. Facebook and twitter accounts etc could also be handy tools for information collection as and when required. The advent of these gizmos have obviously benefited the Governments in keeping a tab on the terrorists and law breakers for their nefarious deeds.

LIVING A DOUBLE LIFE

Of course there are people who live double life. Outwardly some people feign to be transparent, sincere in their attitude but when you actually observe them minutely / closely, doubtlessly they are following dual lives. For example the lifestyle of some of our Dharma Gurus is revelation in itself. While in their discourses in the huge congregations they dish out the importance of moral standpoint but do not follow this in actual practice themselves.  This is obviously unrealistic and unethical life.   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNIFICANCE OF EKADASHI DAY FASTING TO PURIFY BODY, MIND AND SOUL

SIGNIFICANCE OF EKADASHI DAY FASTING TO PURIFY BODY, MIND AND SOUL

Ekadashi occurs on the eleventh day of the lunar cycle (both full and new moon)  It happens twice in a month according to Hindu Calendar – the waxing phase or Shukla Paksha and fading moon called Krishna Paksha. There are 24 Ekadashis in a Calendar year and there are two more Ekdashis that take place in a lunar leap year. Ekdashi Day is considered as the most spiritual event when strict fasting is observed from early morning to the next day morning.

Ekadashi is one of the prominent occasions which if observed with detachment and as per prescribed rituals helps in cleansing our sins as well as the sins of our nears and dears. Ekadashi Moksha (Moksha means liberation) is a most special and most auspicious occasion. On this day Lord Krishna (Vishu’s  Incarnation – Avtara) delivered His Bhagwad Gita recital to Dhanushdhari Arjuna when both the armies of Pandvas and Kauravas were facing each others in Kurukeshtra battle field. Every specific activities performed on this day has its own significance and benefits accrued to us provided the fasting is observed strictly in accordance with scriptural norms.

ORIGIN OF EKADASHI

In Satya Yuga, Lord Vishnu had a long-drawn-out battle with demon named Mura. Due to the protracted battle, Lond Vishnu got tired as a result of which He tired and went to sleep. Mura was waiting for this occasion. He pounced on Lord Vishnu for killing Him. Then a damsel appeared from the body of Lord Vishnu who fought a pitched battle with Mura and killed him. She was actually Mahashakti who appeared  on 11^th day of fading moon thus Lord Vishnu named ned Ekadashi.  He also bestowed her the boon that whosoever fasts on this day would be free off the sins and also will have moksha finally.

SIGNIFICANCE OF EKADASHI DAY FAST

The religious rituals, given in the sacred Pranas / Vedic scriptures, and also referred to as Hari’s Day. their strict observance thereof helps the devotees in many ways than body, one. 

• Observance of fast cleanses our body, mind and soul.

 

• It helps alleviating us in spiritual ladder.

 

• Its strict observance can help us attain Moksha or Liberation from pangs of birth and deaths.

 

• It can transform our Kukarma (Bad Karma) into good Karmas thus paving the way for an aspirant to attain the traits of detachment, the mention of which has been amply made in Bhagwad Gita. Action performed without consideration the fruits or results of that action could help us attain Liberation.

 

• Anybody observing the Ekadashi with all the focus at his/her command could remove that person’s sufferings.

 

• As this day is termed as the Lord Hari’s day, its observance could alleviate the sufferings of an individual.

 

• While the body and mind is cleansed, it is possible to ward off from the three sins: lust, greed and anger.

 

• Fasting on this auspicious day is bereft of any external pressures. This day passes both in peace and harmony including inculcation of good habits.

 

• As the people who fast keep away from solid grain foods and take light diet consisting of milk products, dry fruits and fruits, we feel light and our digestive system too works wonders as it provides due rest to our system thus keeps our health in fine fettle. Healthy eating even for a day fortnightly can repair our system.

 

• As we are aware, the gravitational pull of the moon influences the oceans in the form of high and low tide hence Intake of less food item and more of liquid Ekadashi Day helps in influencing us biologically too. It has been practically observed by the proponents who fast sincerely – the diseases like blood pressure, insomnia, depression, gastric problems etc could be cured with fasting. Observance of such fasts have obviously helped me in maintaining good health after even 66+ years of age.

 

• While we fast on this day, we also meditate thus not only helping us spiritually but also enhancing the chances of connectivity with God.

 

• It has also been felt that the benefits of Ekadashi fasting and all the purity and sincerity observed on this day to the individual concerned but also to his/her family members.

 

• Ekadashi fasting helps in self awareness simply because of individual observance of fast strictly in accordance with scriptures since self realization results from self-disciplinary efforts.

 

• Self awareness resulting from strict observing converts conviction into practical experience.

 

• We learn how to control our unethical desires and lead a life full of compassion.

 

• Canvas of our spirituality enhances with the observance of Ekadashi Fast.

EKADASHI RITUALS OBSERVED

Ekadashi has its special mention in Pranas Scriptures. Ekadashi Moksha  with after having kept Ekadashi Lord Vishnu fast which most falls twice in a month, for the last so many years, i chose to observe the fast and  on 5^th may 2017 (Nirjala Ekadashi –  meaning remaining even without water). Preparation for this Moksha and spiritual rituals started on one day before i.e. Dasami day.

HAVAN PERFORMED ON EKADASHI DAY

This time on 5^th June 2017, the most auspicious time for Havan Vidhi was necessarily to be performed between 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM in which proper Havan, Sheja Dhan (Cot, beddings, golden ring and ear-rings, , Gau Dhan (Donation of cow), etc were performed with utmost devotion in the midst of which chanting of pious Mantras,  calling upon well-known deities like Lord Ganesha, Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, Lord Mahesh, Sun (Surya) God, Moon (Chandra) God besides Navagrahas (nine planets which affect our life cycle). Seven of these deities are named after the planets in the solar system and are given the names of the seven days of the week of Hindu Calendar. The other two are Rahu and Ketu who are demons who got their prominence through trickstery. All these Nine Planets affect our life and provide protective shield when we call upon them ritualistically and systematically. Or, these planets could prove inauspicious as per our Karmic deeds or misdeeds.

 In Ekadashi, a devotee does not take food. Takes fruits and milk that too in a limited quantity. Food habits differ from one area to another. I and my wife endeavoured to keep purity in thoughts and deeds. The purpose is to keep purity  in thoughts,  body and soul. The next day on 6^th June 2017, there was a Preeti Bhoj or Lungar or community feast which was the culmination of Ekadashi Fast.

OBSERVANCE OF SCRIPTURAL INSTRUCTIONS

The preparation for the Ekadashi began on Dasami day – a day before Ekadashi. In order to observe Ekadashi in accordance with the scriptural articulation, we got up early in the morning, after proper daily routines and bath etc. In order to perform all the rituals as prescribed in the scriptures, we collected all the necessary materials (Havan Samagris) while sacred fire was ignited in the Havan Kund followed by chanting of appropriate Mantra Jap (recitation) different for different deities including family deities (Kul Devata – in our case Buaji, Kalivir, Maldevi Ji along with Nag Devta). All the Mantra recitations was performed by Pandit with as given by the Panditj named RAJAT KHAJURIA, who performed the all the rituals in connection with Ekadashi Moksh with professional finesse and ritualistic satisfying. After completion of Havan Vidi, Arati, calling upon Lord Vishuji with a entreaties to rid us off sins and save us from coming troubles, whosoever worships the Lord gets his/her reward and there is all pervading joy and will also be bestowed with wealth and well-being for that person… etc.

Om jaya Jagadīśha hare

Swami Jai Jagdish hare

Bhakta janoṅ ke saṅkat

Dās janoṅ ke saṅkat

Kṣaṇa meṅ dūr kare

Om jai Jagadīśh hare

Jo dhyāve phal  pāve

Dukh binase mana kā

Swāmī dukh binase man kā

Sukha samptī ghara āve

Sukha sampatī ghara āve

Kaṣṭa miṭe tana kā

Om jaya Jagadīśa hare……………….

 

Singing the Arati collectively alleviate the troubles of the devotees and uplifts  those participating in Arati spiritually.

 

On the Ekadashi day, total fasting is done from morning to morning of next day. Praying to Vishnu is the order of the day. Some people avoid sleep during Ekadashi night and they hear religious discourses and perform ‘Arati.’ But many people today will not be able to stay awake the entire night due to work pressure etc.

 

The next day on Dwadasi – that is the day after Ekadeshi – the same routine done on Dasami is followed. Overeating should be avoided on Dwadasi day. Puranas state that one should not take pride in observing Ekadashi or performing the rituals as enshrined in the scriptures.

 

It is good to go on fast once in a while as it recuperates the body. Ekadashi observance cleans our body and the digestive organs get much needed rest.

 

IMPORTANCE OF LORD VISHNU

THE TRINITY

Ekadashi fast is associated with Lord Vishnu represents one of the Prime Gods responsible for preservation whatever has been created by by Brahma and subsequently destroyed by Lord Shiva. These are also termed as trinity or trimurtis. Besides their consorts i.e. Lordess Saraswati (Lordess of knowledge), Lordess Lakshmi (Worshipped as Lordess of Wealth and Wellbeing) and Parvati (Worshipped as Mother Divine). The Trinity or Trimurti along with their consorts are created by supreme ishwara.

Further, Lord Vishnu incarnated Hmself in 24 avtars (incarnations) with all the 16 supernatural powers. Amongst these Avtars these are the prominent ones: Rama Avtar, Krishna Avtar, Purush Avatar, Varaha Avatar, Narada Avtar, Nara Narayana Avatara, Kspila Avatara, Dattatraya Avatar, Yagya Avatar, Rishabh Avatar, Prithu, Matsya Avatar, Kachchap Avatar, Dhanvantari Avatar, Mohiavatar, Narsimha Avatar, Vamana Avatar, ) Parshuram Avatar, Vasaya Avtar, Balram Avatar, Budha Avatar Besides Kali Avatar Which Will Happen In Kali Yuga.

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