IN ORDER TO GET SOMETHING TANGIBLE, WE HAVE TO HAVE SOUND CONNECT
Most of our relationships get a sound drubbing If we don’t sort out points of difference within shortest span of time Reason may be any – big or small, turns out to be most divisive Creating a gaping hole in our relationship Which festering sore later on becomes malignant In fact difficult to heal if not attended within shortest timeframe Without establishing meaningful contact And not sorting things out right away By sitting across the table Or establishing connectivity By throwing reluctance to the winds In an atmosphere of give and take Rather than breaking the connect altogether Having our heart at the right place Often-time thinking that the other party should take initiative anyhow..
We firmly reckon, fault lies on somebody other’s shoulders Alas! Not yours Since you’re nurturing oft held notion Holier than thou stance You stand on high moral ground than the other party Thus clinging on to a feeling of superiority A complex sentiment so egocentric Which is the crux Of breaking connection held dear thus for So important thing is to create congenial condition Volunteering for interaction from both sides will assuage state.
EVEN IN PITCH DARKNESS, WE CAN SEE LIGHT AND LOVE
ESTABLISHING CONNECTIVITY IS ESSENTIAL
IN SEARCH OF PEACE OF MIND – IT DOES NOT COME WITHOUT MINDFUL SEARCH
Paradoxically, it is strange but true that we break our long held ties with our dear ones simply owing to some innocuous reason. A cause, which could have been brushed under the carpet instantly but we want to latch onto it unreasonably. If this seemingly simplistic cause is not attended to then and there, it will turn out be a relation breaker after sometimes. This has happened in many a cases, therefore, need is to attend to the matter at the incipient stage itself. This is like not attending to a spark of the short-circuit, if not attended timely, can burn down the entire building and also building around too. Similar is the case with non-attendance of innocent looking issue which could be relation breaker.
Even Lord Vishnu incarnated in different Avtars in order to remove the evil prevailing in the society and ensure order. To protect the righteous, to annihilate the wicked, and to reestablish the principles of dharma I appear on this earth, age after age. Bhagwad Gita. Without real and sincere connect, nothing tangible results.
Some of us stand on ceremony and don’t take initiative in sorting things out things instantly. The other side too maintains a stoic silence and ultimately this silence becomes reason for break in relationships, Opening the discussion and keeping the door open for mutual interaction opens vista of positive change which has stalled due to non-connect between the two parties.
Then question arises: why of all people ‘me; should take the first step and why not ‘he/she’ should take initiative? This back and forth attitude vacillation goes on in the minds of the parties concerned. All these contentious questions keep popping up in the minds of the persons concerned but alas! None of the two sides take first step and come forward and establish connectivity so as to alleviate the current differences. That said, we should always keep in mind that differences could be sorted out only through establishment of connectivity. SILENCE on this stance could be dangerous.
Many of our relationships just vanish in thin air if stoic silence is maintained for a long time. Sitting side by side across the table can only solve the pestering problem. Silence, I am repeating would prove to be counterproductive – small difference could snowball into breach of trust and trustworthiness thus creating a long chasm in the relationship which cannot be breached after a period of time. A stitch in time saves nine should never be forgotten.
Therefore, parties concerned should be sensitive enough to maintain a modicum of connectivity to sort things out as soon as possible rather than let it fester with a disastrous results which cannot be condoned when relationships go haywire.
TO UNDERSTAND EACH OTHER
To establish our connectivity with each other just to convey our point of views just to understand each other. While we understand each other fully, all our differences get settled with goodwill and wellness prevailing all around.
TO IRON OUT DIFFERENCES
There are people who try to come in our way by creating ill-feelings due to jealousy or rivalries. When we hve one to one tet-a-tet then differences are sorted out on the basis of give and take thus removing all misunderstanding in the process.
MOST OF OUR RELATIONSHIP BEAK DUE TO MISUNDERSTANDING
It has been experienced that most of our relations just break because of misunderstanding due to one reason or other. This reason may be very minute which could be removed by connecting with each other.
CREATION OF COSINESS IN OUR RELATIONSHIP BY INTERACTION
In essence, we can solidify the foundations of our relations and take to next ultimate level thru positive inter-connectivity and positive mindset.
SOMETIMES NOT CONNECTING WITH OUR WELL ESTABLISHE RELATION GO AWRY DUE TO NON-CONNECT
If we do not have positive connect with our friends or closest relation for a considerable periods of time then it may be construed as a sign of disinterest so can break relationship. Establishing connect can cement the bond. It is so in case of couples who break their relationship simply because they fail to connect for a considerable period of time creating a big chasm which cannot be filled easily.
If we do not pray or meditate sincerely with a focused mindset, we cannot establish our connection with God. For this to be reality, we have to follow a spiritual oriented lifestyle.
If a wound is not attended initially and left unattended, then, this wound may turn out to festering wound which may turn cancerous, difficult to heal even with the best medicare.
Families do break due to non-connect of one earning member who left the family fabric due to a petty difference of opinion which could have been removed though interaction.
Communities lose their unity stance when a slightest difference is not attended within shortest timeframe.
Two countries remain at daggers drawn and may lead to war if initiative is not taken to sort out small things within short time.
LESSONS TO BE LEARNT FROM THE LIFE OF GURU TEGH BAHADUR JI
Today is the 400th PRAKASH DIVAS OF GURU TEG BAHADUR JI
If we peep and delve into the life Guru Ji, we can evidently learn how to live for others and even do not hesitate to give supreme sacrifice for others causes.
In essence, in life, when we delve deeper into the lives of renowned religious philosophers and Gurus of repute, we get valuable awareness from their teachings. These teachings help remove our ignorance from our midst thus bestowing us needed enlightenment both for refined living along with teaching us humans ethical, moralistic and spiritual orientation. All these help us in our course correction whenever we distract ourselves from the righteous path.
THE LIFE OF GURU JI
The life and level of sacrifice in case of Guru Teg Bahadur Ji becomes all the more encompassing since it was for protecting the religious sentiments of all other religion. I shall call it a sacrifice unknown in the annals of history. This sacrifice for others’ causes makes it amply clear that even the thinking of ‘self sacrifice’ is not a normal one. It is unpatrolled and unprecedented. Self-sacrifice for a virtuous cause becomes immortalized.
As a matter of fact, I am sanguine, the rare supreme sacrifice of this nature with the grace from our WAHE GURU JI. This thought is emancipation of consciousness to a level which catapults a person to a holistic growth besides taking the religious homogeneity percepts to new heights. Knowing one’s own faith is not enough, awareness about the common bond between different faiths makes all the difference including self-awareness.
To give supreme sacrifice for others’ causes is creation of new standards in understanding the meaning of any religion! Guruji’s ideals are based on the precept: : “I believe in the right of others to practice their faith peacefully” Indeed a lesson of immense importance which everyone of us should try emulating.
The Kashmiri Pandits had a highest regards for all Sikh Gurus. Their community members came to Anandpur on 25 May 1675 and begged Guru Tegh Bahadur to save them from the tyranny of Aurangzeb who had given them the option; either convert to Islam or face a certain death.
The Guru Ji was in deep thought with concern writ large on his face. Meanwhile, his nine years old son Govind (Guru) came. Sensing concern, he too felt anxious. He came to know that a sacrifice by a holy man could avert conversion or deaths. Thereupon, he plainly asked Guru Ji; who could be holier than you? Then the Guru Ji told the Kashmiris to go and inform State Governor that they were ready to covert to Islam if he was able to convert Tegh Bahadur. The Sadh Sanghat felt dismayed after listening this. The same message was conveyed to Emperor Aurangzeb who knew the strong beliefs of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. It was not only the Guru Ji who showed his broad-heartedness but also his son which I consider as the unique one.
Guru Ji believed in the principle: All religions are pure and only noble deeds count ultimately. The emperor ordered that the Guru be brought to Delhi. Then afterwards the Guru bade his farewell to his wisdom filled son, his wife Mata Nanaki and Sangat after recitation of holy Kirtan on 11 July, 1675. We should keep in mind that all religions are pure and only good deeds remain.
Guru Ji was brought to Delhi wherein he was asked to convert which he refused as he loved his religious beliefs. Subsequently, his followers were killed mercilessly. Guru Ji remained serene. He was immersed in prayers while in the cage. It shows the steadfastness of Guru ji – persuasion and persecution did not impact him. Finally, the cruel emperor ordered our Guru Ji to be executed at Chandni Chowk – he attained martyrdom to safeguard other’s religion. An example we rarely get in any annals of history. Braves offer supreme sacrifices without demur and that is why they immortalize themselves.
LESSONS I LEARNT
Remaining balnced both in happy and sad times, remaining detatched from fear and praise and blame-game too should not affect our demeanour.
We should keep away from ego, lust, greed and should seek liberation. Though difficult but a Gumukh (Pious person) can attain this.
Thru suffering, we can attain self-realization by following a righteous path. The world of ours is transactory, impermanent and illusory.
Our faith should be dear to us and should be maintained at all costs.
For seeking God, we should delve deep into our heart rather than going to forests to seek of God.
We should believe in the Omnipotence and Omniscience of God. The symbol of AUM prevaids everywhere.
Today on 1st May, is the most remarkable and memorable day since we commemorate this day for our labour class whose contribution to the society as a whole cannot be disputed. The stellar contribution of labour class for the society is really unique especially so during Covid-19 pandemic situation. It is due to our labour only who is ensuring our streets, workplaces and other places neat and tidy, But for their participation in most needed sanitation, our society must have been affected more adversely.
Lets celebrate this day most enthusiastically with the fond hope that this class contributes its mite for the society. For this to be reality, it is a must that the society takes care of this class as they take care of the society of which they are a part.
Essentially, it has been said whatever job we are capable should be performed with singleness of purpose with the aim that no work is low or high but how much you focus on he job in hand counts much. We should feel proud of whatever job we are performing. In Bhagwad Gita, it has been rightly said:Perform your prescribed duty, for action is better than inaction. A man cannot even maintain his physical body without work.
A resolution was passed in 1889 by the Marxist International Socialist Congress in which it was decided that the workers should not be made to work for more than eight hours a day. Thereafter, it became an annual feature to celebrate 1st May as the Labour Day.
In essence, in order that the labour class works conscientiously and to their full potential, it is most significant that their rights are protected to a maximum extent through:-
FIXING OF WORKING HOURS
As the labour class has to work under most trying under hazrduous situations and conditions and if they are exposed to these conditions continuously then their immunity too would be impacted adversely. Therefore, a fixed period of work is necessary. As a corollary to this end, 8 hours work schedule is fixed. Every organization, private or governmental should work according to this work. Any organization transgressing this, should be dealt with according to the law of the land. This is most significant since exposure for long hours at this critical juncture can put the lives of this working class to the jeopardy.
WAGES TO THE LABOUR CLASS
For the strenuous working schedule and the hard labour they put in like cleaning the sewerages, drains, lanes and by-lanes, it is must that they are duly compensated their fruits of labour. Keeping this class away from their wages or divesting them from their legitimate wages will prove counterproductive thereby leading to disastrous consequences . Besides, it would amount to demotivating them despite their hazardous work.
HEALTH CARE/MEDI-CARE
For keeping them in their sound health and wellness, of necessity, it is essential that they are provided medicare through periodical medical tests more so in this testing time of Covid-19 pandemic situation wherein they have to work while others have to stay indoors observing Covid-19 norms!
FAMILY WELFARE
While the labourers have to work under difficult conditions, it is a must that their families too are taken care – they are provided medical assistance whenever they need, the families are compensated if and when they lose their bread winner due to the job hazards.
AFTER RETIREMENT BENEFITS
To ensure that when they attain the age of superannuation, the working class are given retirement benefits including insurance cover for the retired employee and their family as well. Wherever authorized, pensionary benefited with all other pecuniary benefits such as Provident Fund, Dearness Allowance etc should accrue to them as and when due.
HAPPY LABOUR DAY
FRAGRANCE OF WORK SHOULD COME FROM EVERY TASK WE TEND TO PERFORM
A day most memorable While we pay our tribute to class so respectable A class which stands apart For stellar contribution to the society at large Without whom no community can move ahead In a neat and clean environs Our warm salutation Originated from the deep recesses of our heart To this special class for their part – so very significant.
Our grateful thanks to this special class of workers Who are putting in their expertise in a most meaning way In the varieties of industries Farms and factories.
This labour class is the one who performs manual work most efficiently Working physically so effectively By working manually where our whole body is involved to fructify The work assigned and done loyally With honesty and sincerity Along with utmost discipline, punctuality and regularity Becoming excellent factor of production significantly Involved to tilt the scale of production meaningfully.
In order that our labour class gets benefit due to them From the work they perform so very efficiently Formal Labour Laws are devised duly Through legislation With active participation of trade unions and the organization Which are formalized by the Government concerned Where the rights of the labour classes Along with the duties of the management Are codified to be followed to the letter and spirit For the overall benefits of workers As the wages for the employed labour And the organizations concerned Puts in their capital to start the venture for more production.
There are certain impediment which are presently observed With the automation and computerization Including the e-communication as a recent phenomenon Wherein more reliance is placed on machine Thus replacing manual labour to a maximum extent.
Laws are formulized tellingly To save the interests of the labour class effectively Involved in the industries Or any other ventures such as working in the fields Involved in ploughing, sowing, watering plants Removing weeds, harvesting the crops Picking of fruits from the fruit trees And finally taking the produce – the fruits of the labour To the market places for selling the produce.
Then, it could be making of furniture For use in offices and in our homes Or construction of buildings In other words, you mention anything or everything The contribution of working class is most significant.
It may be unskilled work Semi-skilled work Or skilled work Which involves labour work As the means to fructify the work.
There may be sometimes Conflict of interests Between the labour class and the organization Which could be sorted out amicably Tripartite consultation formally By association or participation of workers Owners and the Government agencies.
1st May is construed as the Labour Day When we renew our promise to be fulfilled To stick to the proposal of eight hours of work Along with honouring the commitments Made with the working classes who work manually.
The contribution of labour class in Covid-19 pandemic stands tall The working class is involved in keeping our streets neat and clean Besides performing the work related to sanitizing The nooks and corners of the city streets so very appreciably.
Without their active participation We could not have achieved the task of keeping Our workplaces and streets neat and tidy While we sit at our homes comfortably This labour class is working punctually As their work schedule begins starts in the early morning And lasts till the end of the schedule of working.
Hence our profuse salutation A most deserving one To these most astute working class Who with their manual work has made a huge difference In our life at this hour of most trying situation and condition They put on their work without caring for their own protection Therefore they deserve our salutation.
Hanuman Jyanti is being celebrated today The Chitra Purnima In Shakula Paksha He is the symbol of strength and amazing power He is passionate devotee Of Lord Rama The Maryada Prashotam While we want the blessings of Lord Ram We can worship Lord Hanuman Who is the Deity To whom we can worship for successful fructification Of any project we undertake in hand His prayers at this juncture When Novel Coronavirus virulence Is taking toll all the world over With Hanuman Chalisa recitation Or chanting of Mantra Om Eh Reem Hanumante Shri Ram Doote Namon. To seek and get answers to our pressing problems His worship could also assist us For removing the negative forces Which has bedeviled our lives. The devotee could offer while performing worship & Wisdom With flowers like marigold, rose With parsad as Ladu, halwa and banana Which are very dear to Lord Hanumana Born to mother Anjana Due to her worship of Lord Shiva Due to which Lord Hanumana Too is termed as the incarnation of Lord Shiva. My sincere prayer to Lord Hanumana I entreat thee the Bhakta of Lord Rama The savior of all the creations To rid the humanity off the Novel Coronavirus Pandemic From the surface of this Planet.
LORD HANUMAN JYANTI TODAY – MAY THE BOUNTIFUL BLESSINGS OF LORD HANUMAN JI REMAIN ON US ALL
MAY THE GRACE OF HANUMAN JI REMAIN ON US ALL
Before relating the significance of this day, I offer my sincere prayer to the one who can deliver the humanity from the virulent virus which has engulfed whole of the humanity in its vicious entanglement and especially so in India where the Novel Covid-19 pandemic has crossed all records besides the shortage of Oxygen too is being felt in many hospital though the Government is making all out efforts in replenishing the same. Welcome assistance too is pouring in to alleviate the situation.
Sure enough, our sincere prayers can stop the novel coronavirus pandemic while observing all the norms of lockdown procedures. Remaining isolated in the comforts of our homes, keeping distance while going out when inescapable, washing hands as and when required while observing all norms to avoid personal contact with others since this virus spreads through contact with the infected person.
Lord Hanuman was born to Anjana, the wife of Vanaraja Kesari (the King of Monkeys). It is believed that Anjana was cursed by Muni Vishwamitra for disturbing him. He cursed Anjana that she will give birth to a monkey. Anjana to get rid of the curse worshipped Lord Shiva and urged him to be a part of her son. Thus, it is believed that Lord Hanuman is an incarnation of Lord Shiva.
LORD HANUMAN JI’S JYANTI TODAY
Lord Hanuman Ji is the son of mother Anjana (An Apsara who was cursed by Rishi Vivhsvamitra to take birth on earth in Vanara family) and father Kesari the King of Sumeru. The Wind God Vayu had also a role in his birth besides being the Guru of Hanuman Ji. Lord Hanuman Ji is a well-known devotee of Lord Rama who is one of the pivotal characters epic Ramayana. His name has been mentioned in Vedas, Puranas, besides in Jain, Buddhist and Sikh scriptures. He is also known as an incarnation of Lord Shiva. He is not only worshipped in India but also in Nepal, Myanmar, Cambodia, Malaysia and Indonesia.
Hanuman Jyanti marks the birth of HANUMAN JI to father King Kesari and mother Anjani with the bounties of Wind King Pawan Dev Ji. The devotees who have strong influenceof Shani Dev Ji should worship Hanuman Ji. In this context, reciting of Hanuman Chalisa eight times is very effective to please Shani Dev Ji (Satron). He is hugely respected for His prowess and the one who bestows his graces on those KARMA YOGI are honest and sincere in their prayers.
Hanuman Jayanti is an important festival of the Hindus. Lord Hanuman is a passionate devotee of Lord Rama Ji. He is widely known for his undaunted loyalty to Lord Rama. Hanuman is the symbol of strength and energy besides known for devotion to Lord Rama. He is said to be able to assume any form at will, brandish the gada (including many other celestial weapons), and even move mountains which he exhibited when needed for bringing a medicinal plant to save the life of Lakshmana the brother of Lord Rama.
The devotees celebrate this day, worship Lord Hanuman Ji and also keep fast on this day and seek his blessings besides offer Ladoos to Him as these are liked by Him. They receive Parsad in the form of sweets, flowers, Tilak etc. The Param Bhakta of Lord Hanuman Ji also recite devotional songs praising Lord Hanuman Ji for his Shakti and Bhakti and also seek his blessings besides sing HANUMAN CHALISA in his praise for receiving his graces.
PRAYER BY THE DEVOTEES
On this auspicious day, devotees of Lord Hanuman pray him and seek his protection and blessings. They flock to temples to worship him and present religious offerings. In return, The devotees receive parsada from the temple priests in the form of sweets, flowers, coconut etc. People also celebrate him on this day by reciting various devotional songs (especially Hanuman Chalisa). The devotees also recite Beej Mantra – OM EH REEM HANUMANTE SRI RAM DOOTE NAMON. In this Hanuman Ji is prayed for being a devout messenger of Lord Rama who is a symbol of strength and energy.
It has also been mentioned in Valmiki Ramayana that Hanuman’s father Kesari, the king of Sumeru was the son of Brihaspati. Due to the intense prayers of Anjana and Kesari to Lord Maheshwara, a son was born to them named Hanuman an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Vayu (The deity of Wind). He too had a role in the birth of Hanuman Ji and that is why we term him as the son of Vayu.
In Vishnu Purana, there is also a mention of the birth of Hanuman Ji. Narda Muni wanted to marry a beautiful princess for which he wanted to have Lord Vishnu like face. Instead, Lord Vishnu gave him the face of a monkey, thereupon Narda cursed Lord Vishnu that this ape-like face (Vanara) will assist him when he would be in dire need. This was also the reason of Hanuman Ji’s birth because, without his help, the task of defeating Demon King Ravana would have been very difficult.
VARIOUS NAMES OF LORD HANUMAN JI AND THEIR SIGNIFICANCE
Lord Hanuman Ji is Rudra Avtara, another name of Lord Shiva. He is also worshipped by various names by His devotees such as Bala Ji (Child Hanuman), Anjaneya (Son of Anjana), Mahavira (Full of bravery and courage bestowed upon him by Sun God), Balarka (Sadrushanana like the rising sun), Batnasiddhikara (Giver of Strength), Bajranghbali (With huge strength), Bhakta Vastsaka (Protector of devotees), Bhavishya (One who knows about future happenings), Chiranjevini (Immortal), Chaturbahave (Four armed), Danta (Peaceful), Dheera (Most courageous), Deenabandhave (Defender of the oppressed), Daithyakulantaka (Destroyer of the demons), Kesrisuta (Son of kesri), Hanumanta (One with Puffy cheeks), Intrajit (Remover of the effect of Indrajit’s Brahmastra), Jai Kapeesh (Hailing monkey), Kapishwara (Head of monkey army), Kabalikruta (One who swallowed the Sun),
Kumarabrahmacharine (Bachelor with youthful strength), Panchavaktra (Five faced), Pratapavate (Known for his bravery), Yogini (Yogi par excellence), Rudraveerya (Born of Shiva), amongst so other names for showering of His graces and blessings. He is known for His ritualistic healing power and have the power to remove the evil spirits from the bodies of the devotees and Mehandipur, the Abode of Sri Bala Ji exerts its positive influence on His devotees.
From the various names that Lord Hanuman Ji is known, it is evident that he helps his devotees to cure their sufferings, comes to their rescue in tiding over their difficult situations, curing them of their ailments caused due to some ill-effects of magical powers, one who bestows us courage as He is known for his courageous acts which He exhibited while Hanuman Ji was taken to Demon King Ravana’s palace in chains by his son Meghnatha while He was on the mission of locating Sita Maa in the custody of Demon King Ravana. He not only burnt the Golden Lanka of Ravana but also exhibited very benign demeanour to Ravana’s brother Babishana, a Ram Bhakta himself – PROVING HIS MULTI-FACETED ROLE AMONGST THE DEVTAS.
A DEVOUT BHAKTA OF LORD SRI RAMA
Lord Hanuman Ji is known for his Bhakti and for Lord Rama besides his heroic initiatives and power are well known to us all. He is known for his martial arts – amongst which use of gadha, wrestling, acrobatics and also meditation. He is an epitome of celibacy/chaste and inner control including devotion to his duty. He performed the special role in helping Lord Rama in retrieving Sita Maa after Demon King Ravana abducted her from Panchbati in the disguise of a Sadhu by deception. Hanumanji was sent to Lanka for getting information on Sita Maa. He surmounted several hurdles while crossing the ocean. When he reached in Lanka, Sita Maa felt very pleased but at the first instance, she was skeptical about him since she thought that he could be one of the deceptive stances of King Ravana. But on showing the golden ring of Lord Rama, she was convinced that he was actually the doot or Messenger sent by Lord Rama for locating her.
LORD HANUMAN JI’S VISIT TO LANKA IN SEARCH OF SRI SITA MAA
Subsequently, Hanuman Ji expressed his desire and asked for permission to allow him to have some fruits from the Vatika (garden) of Ravana as he felt very hungry due to his long and tiring sojourn. She allowed him but with reservation since she did not want that any harm should happen to the Ram’s doot. When allowed to have fruits, Hanuman Ji started not only taking fruits but also uprooting the trees. When the demon guards intervened, he killed them all. This news went to King Ravana, he sent his son Meghnath who with deception brought him in front of Ravana – that was the opportunity Hanuman Ji was waiting for; firstly to convince the king to return Sita Maa to Lord Rama with respect besides asking for his forgiveness for kidnapping her. This was vehemently opposed by the king Ravana who was filled with the ego of his prowess along with he being one of the fondest Bhaktas (worshippers) of Lord Shiva. He flatly refused to do so. Instead, on the advice of his advisors, he ordered that the tail of Hanuman Ji be burnt. Having lit the tail, Hanuman Ji showed to the Lankan what he could do. He burnt the entire Lanka by hopping from home to home. All this sent a shock wave to the entire Lankans – an indication of things to come for Ravana for his misdemeanor. During this, Hanuman Ji met Ravan’s brother Vabhishana who was Lord Rama’s Bhakta. During this period, Hanuman Ji liberated Lord Shani Dev Ji, the dispenser of Justice from the confinement of Ravana.
WHY SINDOOR IS IMMERSED IN LORD HANUMAN’S STATUE
We immerse sindoor on the idol of Hanuman Ji which is liked by Hanuman Ji. We also apply some of the sindoor on our forehead from the foot of the idol of Hanuman Ji. There is a legend for this too. While Sita Maa was applying sindoor as a tika on her forehead, Hanuman Ji asked why she was putting vermilion on her forehead. She replied that it was t ensure the long life for her husband – Lord Rama. Hanuman Ji for ensuring the long life of Lord Rama applied sindoor to his entire body and that is why we smear his entire idol with it.
A WELL KNOWN LEGEND ABOUT HANUMAN JI’S TEST FOR HIS LOVE AND DEVOTION
Hanuman Ji was the chief devotee of Lord Rama. This was proved by a legend. While Maa Sita Ji wanted to award Hanuman with gems’ garland, Hanuman simply broke the pieces of garland. Sita Maa felt very surprised and wanted to know about the reason for breaking the garland pieces. In reply to this, Hanuman Ji told that the image of Ram Ji resides in His heart and therefore he needed no gift of any kind. Then, Hanuman tore the part of his chest, and lo and behold, the image of Lord Rama and Maa Siya Ji was there etched. All this proved that in every atom of Hanuman Ji, Lord Rama remained stamped.
SRI HANUMAN CHALISA
In Hanuman Chalisa, Hanuman has been described to be a reservoir of knowledge who ensures for the awakening of general people. He is the messenger of Lord Rama, the son of Anjana and Kesari. He helps in removal of ignorance and helps in enlightenment. He is the worshipper of Lord Ram and Maa Sita. The magnificence of his attire has been mentioned. He was sent was dispatched to Lanka as the messenger to know about the whereabouts of Maa Sita where he killed many demons. Even Vibhishan the brother of Lankesh knew everything about Lord Hanuman Ji. Despite his knowledge, energy (Shakti), empowered by boons by different God-heads in various aspects, his prayer, and love to Lord Rama excelled everything else. Those who pray Him are bestowed with all sorts of bounties and his graces remain with them. He is the ultimate remover of bad luck from our midst if we sincerely pray Him.
The Valmiki Ramayana and Ramayana written by Goswami Tulsidas very compressively tell us the details of Ayodhya King Dashratha and all the description till the end. These amongst others are very popular amongst the people.
Hanuman Ramayana. There is the description of Hanumat Ramayana in old Hindu scriptures – Vedas and Sikandpurana etc. This was the description of Ramayana codified by Lord Hanuman Ji. This was codified by Hanumanji with his nails on the rocks. After reading this descriptive Ramayana, Maharishi Valmiki got very disappointed as his own written Ramayana was not as good as he had seen the one written by Hanuman Ji. Lord Hanuman Ji got moved by the concern of Valmiki Ji, therefore, he threw that portion of the rock into the sea so that nobody could read the Ramayana written by Him.
Thereupon, Maharishi Valmiki promised to take birth in next Yuga as Goswami Tulsidas and write comprehensive Ramayana which is read by all of us now.
RELATION BETWEEN LORD Lord Hanuman Ji is the incarnation of SHIVA AND LORD HANUMAN JI
Lord Shiva hence one who worships Lord Hanuman ji gets graces from Lord Shiva and vice versa too.
HANUMAN – THE SEVAK OF LORD RAM
RELATION OF LORD HANUMAN JI WITH LORD SHANI DEV JI
Lord Hanuman Ji while on the sojourn to Lanka to locate Sita Maa happened to meet Lord Shani Dev Ji (Saturn) (the son of Sun also and Chhaya Putra) in the prison of Demon King Ravana. Lord Hanuman Ji freed Lord Shani Devi Ji therefore there developed friendship between the two. Even Shani Dev Ji cast his spell (sight) on Lord Hanuman Ji which helped Him to speedily burn Golden Lanka of Ravana. If we pray lord hanuman ji, the graces of Lord Shani Devi Ji too remain with us.
MAY LORD HANUMAN JI’S BOUNTIFUL GRACE REMAIN ON THE HUMANITY AS A WHOLE AND DELIVER US ALL FROM THE HOUR OF ADVERSETY CREATED BY THE VIRULENT VIRUS.
Amay, may Heaven’ s choicest Plentiful blessings be showered On to you our most loved And remain ever blessed With the Almighty God The One who can make huge difference to one and all.
Since your birthday Coincides with the most auspicious day Of Lord Hanuman’s Jyanti The source of power and knowledge We all specially pray to Him To bestow you bountiful know-how and perception And resilience to face life with confidence.
Really a shining star of our eye Who is learning and experiencing new things And adding his savoir-faire everyday of his life Along with rich value system Transferred by parents with warmth in love Which comes out of the inner recesses of heart Generating in its wake a feeling of pride That you’re not apart from us all A blood relation producing warmth in our emotions.
When you smile We smile with you When you laugh We laugh with you.
Your chatter captivates us When you are in pain it pains us.
A feeling of pleasure comes on the surface of our mind That you’re one amongst us Whose birthday falls today.
You will represent us in the days to come We pray to God for your happiness Insightful knowledge Good health and wellness So as to cultivate sound habits, behavior and attitude.
Named variously with paramount love and affection By different people closely connected But the intention of each one remains the same To showcase and transfer basketful of love onto you.
I further pray to God that your tomorrow May be better than today For healthy and joyful living.
Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara was born on 599 BC and died in 510 BC. It is also mentioned in Kalpa Sutra that he was born between 1375 – 1400 CE in a family of a Kshtriya in present day Bihar. .
I pray to Lord Mahavira who got his Omniscience – Kevala Jnana or eternal knowledge after undergoing extreme penance may bestow the humanity wellness, peace and prosperity and rid the humanity from the scourge. I want to see happiness and joy on the faces of all along with self belief and belief on God.
While the world at large, and particularly so, India, are passing through most trying situations and condition created by double mutant Novel Coronavirus Pandemic.
The hope now is partly on the bountiful blessings of Lord Mahavira. I offer my sincerest prayers to the Lord to protect the precious lives of humanity around the world. Wish that all are administered vaccines. In the interim, scare created by the scarcity of Oxygen should be made good as soon as possible by the active intervention of all concerned post haste otherwise death and destruction would be huge. All states should cooperate in this context so that no precious life is lost due to the non-availability of O2. I am sanguine, of course, blessings of our Lord Mahavira would anyhow be there and the scare created by Covid-19 gets evaporated.
If we act on the following five principles of Lord Mahavira preaching, we would make our lives sublime thereby lead a life of peace and prosperity.
The five vows (Vrtas) which Mahavira Preached are enumerated as under:-PPRINCFIVE VOWS OF LORD MAHAVIRA
Ahimsa (Non-violence). Mahavira preached to maintain sanctity and dignity of all in the spirit of Ahimsa – without force or intimidation. It should be in action, speech and thought. Satya (Truthfulness). He stressed about being truthful in thoughts and actions.
Asteya (Non-stealing). Nobody should steal what is not ours.
Brahmacharya (Chastity).He taught abstinence from sex and sensual pleasures for monks and faithfulness to one’s partner for householders.
Aparigaha (Non-attachment). An attitude of non-attachment to property or worldly possessions should be given much credence..
Truthfulness (Satya). It applied to individual and for others.
TEACHINGS OF LORD MAHAVIRA
Non-use of force (Ahimsa) while getting something done.
Following truth (Satya).
Opposing untruth (Asatya) in any event.
Following a life of chastity (Brahmacharya).
We should follow a life of non-attachment to the fruits of our action (Aparigraha).
There are multi-dimensional realities (Anekatavada) to reach the truth.
Remain fearless in hardships and in calamities that is why he is called as Tirthankara.
Knowledge which is universal is based on truth should be followed.
All humans undergo several reincarnations according to our karma therefore we should perform right karma.
It is believed that soul exists an is eternal i.e. does not die as the body dies – a principle which is being followed in Hinduism.
Karma includes actions and intent. The effects of good karma and bad karma.
The goal of spiritual practice to liberate the jiva from the karmic accumulation and enter the realm of the Siddhas and finally liberation after one attains total detachment from the worldly possessions or for that matter anything after following a life of self-restraint.
He taught about many sided realities and truth and reality are complex. Reality could be experienced. Onne can experience the truth of taste but cannot fully express that taste through language. Spiritual truths are also very complex. These could be experienced through self effort and right karma.
Jainism believes in plurality of humans and freedom of belief.
The significance of following the five principles is to achieve spiritual peace for better rebirth or reincarnation or liberation after following highly spiritual life. The Mahavira also put emphasis on restraint and be compassionate to other creatures as well. In other words, the life of self-discipline is of paramount importance. The cleansing of soul leads to spiritual development based on supreme moral virtue.
MAHAVIR JYANTI TODAY
MAY THE BLESSINGS OF THE LORD MAHAVIRA REMAIN ON US ALL
Lord Mahavira, known as Vardhamana Is regarded as the 24th Tirthankaras A spiritual successor of 23rd Tirthankara Parshvanatha Born in the early part of 5th century BC Into a family of Kshtriya Gotra In present day Bihar His birth is celebrated as Mahavir Jayanti And his Nirvana is observed by Jains as Diwali It is recorded that he was born on 599 BC & died in 510 BC Kalpa Sutra mention his birthday between 1375 – 1400 CE Vira Nirvana Samvat era began in 527 BC With Nirvana of Mahavira at Pavapuri in Bihar Is considered holiest place for Jains and others.
Opinions may differ from person to person But his preaching are second to none In spiritual knowledge and awakening.
For 12 years long He lived a life of total renunciation And attained omniscience – Kevala Jnana Or eternal knowledge Knowhow which could be universal in nature Subsequently be got moksha In 6th century BC. Mahavira taught based on Jainism principles Which are respected as those of Lord Buddha.
Mahavira also known as Vardhamana Was the 24th Tirthankara Meaning a savior and a well known Spiritual Preacher Who made significant efforts in reviving Jainism.
With his spiritual and ethical teachings of tirthankaras The base of which was laid in Pre-Vedic era.
He left his home while he was about 30 years And became a true ascetic in true sense of terms Followed severest Bhakti Marga (Path) In the form of severest penance – Bhakti For his spiritual awakening And enlightenment.
His earnest Bhakti earned for him Omniscience – Kevala Jnana Finally attained Nirvana or liberation – Moksha At the age of seventy two.
His teachings included non-violence – ahemsa Truth, what is right and what is wrong – satya & Astya The importance of non-attachment – Aparigraha Taught about chastity – Brahmacharya Thence numerous realities – Anekantavda All his teachings are codified in – Jain Agamas His earliest known historical signs at Mathura’
Mahavira is known variously Such as Samana, Nayaputta, Brahmham, Bhagwan and Muni Mahavira’s childhood name was Vardhamana As per text Digambara Uttarapuranna Mahavira was born in Kundgrama.
In the Kingdom of the Videhas The one who grows in stature and worth And helps others too to grow all around. In the Kalpasutras in Bihar Lived as severest ascetic life for 12 years Then preached Jain philosophy for 30 years He is termed as the great hero – Mahavira He faced all the ups and downs of his life with unmatched stamina In the traditions of Svetambara In the early Budhist Suttas He is called as worthy one – Araha In Vedas he is known as devoid of love and hate Sramana But truth stands out that he preached Jainism philosophy Tirthankara means savior or spiritual preacher Svetambara texts mention his birth on 13th Day of 599 BC At Kundagrama as his place of birth In the month of Chaitra In the Vira Nirvana Samvat calendar era Which falls in the month of March-April Lets adopt his noble teachings in our life For making it sublime and purposeful With love flowing for everybody And hate none With non-use of force While living a life suffusing with truthfulness Not overly attached to the worldly possessions Or not stealing what is not ours.
While Novel Coronavirus pandemic is spreading its tentacles immeasurably In the absence of immunity in our body Causing deaths, destruction and untold misery Along with it; Alas! all gloom, doom and mortality People perforce are locking themselves at homes Looking with fond hope to the medical community That they’ll render needful medical assistance to the suffering humanity Who, due to the virulence and grim spike of the Covid-19 pandemic are losing precious lives Partly due to shortage of oxygen and partly due to shortage of medicines While there is also shortage of space left in the hospitals Keep in mind that these shortages are due to lack of anticipation Or, most likely, due to mismanagement Rather than pass on the buck for their own error of judgment Crying need is judicious resource management.
Need is to observe Covid-19 norms since 2nd wave is more dangerous than the 1st one Put on the masks, keep safe distance And personal sanitization and that of the surroundings So that the infection does not attack and take more lives As this time over, the double mutant Covid-19 infection Being more contagious than the one found earlier on Therefore, more care and caution is needed For finding a most suitable vaccine for stopping of vicious circle Of the spread of this dangerous virus which spread without any bias Leaving none which comes its way Loves to attack people with obesity or hypertension or any other affliction Especially people with low immune system prevalent Double mutant infection, so very virulent Attracts small kids, young and grown ones All this is creating a necessary poser in our mind Is there herd immunity to the spread? Which is so widespread And also creating a dread As to when this virus will end.
The infection mutates faster When our immune system is weaker Damaging the functioning of our body Especially the lung tissues Therefore the need of Oxygen for having a breathing space.
While our immune system acts robustly It can withstand anything and put together our response sturdily By bringing about a healthy balance to our body Firstly on physical plane is keeping healthy By taking proper exercises and also Yogic exercises Also, by strict isolation, social distancing Besides quarantine measures needed when needed Taking sufficient water quantity And diet rich in necessary vitamins With sufficiency of sunlight where we live With fresh air and well ventilated place for living All these provides healthy balance in our life And with it, it makes our system resistant to any virus.
While our mind is hugely stressed With too much thought of contracting infection Along with financial stringency looming large Resulting from loss of job opportunity Which throws our internal defenses awry With this, our immune system gets imbalanced Keeping a healthy balance Both in ups and downs in our lives is the only answer To the mental sturdiness which helps to fight virus.
We should not go overdrive with our situations and conditions In expression of our emotions Through reactions In the form of frustration Fear, anger boredom, disharmony and depression We ought to stop acting as victim in any situation But rather should have a balanced approach In seeing an opportunity in virus conditions too And feel joy in the company of our love ones Thereby consolidating our bonds in relations By being in lockdown situations.
Bereft of any faith, self-belief and belief on God Our immune system gets ruined Thereby picking all sorts of viruses which comes our path With belief in our system and our Almighty God Makes a huge difference to our system Thus rather than losing hope in any condition We ought to have hope even in hopeless situation And seek connect with Omnipotent and Omniscient One With whose graces we can weather any storm Thereby lead a life so happier With a lot of immunity to fight any virus Which may attack us.
SECOND WAVE OF CORONAVIRUS IS MORE VIULENT THAN THE FIRST ONE
HOPE LINGERS WITH LIFE
Presently India has become in the forefront where Covid-19 infection is swelling to a record high due to double mutant variant. In fact nobody expected or anticipated that the second wave would be as dangerous as has turned out to be actually. This is worrisome since more the surge in the infection (More than thee Lacs infections in a single day as on today – 24 April 21), more the medicare and other requirements needed in order to come out this piquant situation. Due to the spread of double mutant dangerous infection, the death rate too is increasing. This infection is directly lungs necessitating requirement of life-saving Oxygen, medical infrastructure, life saving medicines, doctors and para-medical staff (who are rendering Yeoman’s service for the patients) and cap it all, ensuring that needed vaccination is done to all without discrimination. Although the Government is doing its best in this direction yet the task is gigantic yet it is not impossible if all governmental and non-governmental agencies make together make concerted and sincere efforts in mitigating and coming out of the present scenario. Here jointmanship and integrated approach from all quarters is the need of the hour.
In essence, pragmatic approach along with participation and involvement of all (private and public sectors) would help in coming out of the difficult situation and condition in which our country is in by this double mutant most virulent virus which attacks our lungs and other critical organs of our body. So much so is its adverse effects on lungs that it has put our entire system of functionality (financial, education sector, Infra sector, farm sector, industrial sector, judiciary et al) and more so our medical system under intense pressure.
SIGNIFICANCE OF IMMUNITY
Literally, immunity means to offer resistance from the germs of a disease or to create protection from ill-effects of some bad influences or to confront or fight bad influences created by a virus. This is a positive influence on our system which keeps us away from divergent or contradictory situations and conditions. Immunity, in case of double mutant most virulent virus could be ensured by observing proper diet intake, strictly observe Covid-19 behaviour pattern such as keeping adequate social distance, maintaining personal hygiene through periodical and proper sanitizing, besides taking Yogic exercises to keep the body system fit and fine. Last but not the least, lead a spiritually orientated lifestyle in our day-to-day life.
While we relate immunity with our body system, we consider it a inbuilt defence mechanism which our body offers to keep us healthy. The body immunity could be inbuilt in our body due to our DNA and also acquired too through our lifestyle and our propensity to adjust with the environs in which we are living. This could be ensured by observing the following.
EFFECTS OF DIET
A healthy diet starts from our childhood itself. Breastfeeding brings in its wake better growth of our body and have positive influence on our growth.
It is found that eating sufficient vegetable, fresh fruits and dry fruits along with milk products provides us vitamins, minerals, dietary fibre and also provides antioxidants. Also, those who take diets rich in vegetables and fruits have lower rate of obesity, heart disease, diabetes. Besides, these also keep us away from viruses. Eating vegetable unsaturated oils help in building immunity. We should take less sugar and fat contents since these are responsible for creating obesity and hypertension.
CONTROL OVER THE MIND AND IMMUNITY
Our emotions are caused due to our thoughts. It goes to show that two individuals can exhibit different reaction in the similar situation. One person may feel angry on a small pretext whereas other could have control over his emotions and have the traits of letting go. Therefore, those who have control over the senses and mind exhibit positive emotions. Then there are emotions such as frustration, boredom, depression, anxiety and disgust etc. Those who have control over the mind weather all storm and stay cool in any situation and condition. A resolute and determined mindset give out positivity at all times and hence possess rock-solid immunity. Therefore, those who have control over the mind, possess better immunity. The anxieties related with Coronavirus could affect a person with weaker resolve.
SPIRITUAL ORIENTATION IN LIFE AND IMMUNITY
Those people who are spiritually inclined, possess self-belief and belief in Almighty God. Such people have indomitable faith in God and seek connectivity with Him and perform all their Karmic deeds with positive disposition. They do not give too much credence to outcome but perform the action with complete focus. It has been observed that spiritual oriented people are self-determined and face the situations and conditions resolutely. Thus with meditations and prayers, we can enhance our immunity. [
The following steps need proper handling:-
MEDICAL EMEGENCY NEEDS TO BE MET ON WAR FOOTING
Ramping up the availability of critical medicines, medical equipment, augmentation and ramping up medical oxygen supply as per present need to meet medical emergency/crisis, need of gigantic medical infra (beds for patients) to be improved and if possible construct structures to cater for the need of the huge number of patients etc.
UNIVERSAL VACCINATION
In the present critical juncture, it is necessary that all countrymen are vaccinated as soon as possible. This will help in ensuring immunity to our countrymen.
ASSISTANCE TO POOR MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETY
In order to assist the poor citizenry, especially those who are living below the poverty line have to be rendered helping hand by way of provision of ration. The Government has come forward to provide free food for two months.
TRANSPORTATION OF LABOURERS
All out help should be rendered to the labourers to transport them to their residences in various parts of the country so that they do not suffer as they had in the first wave of Covid-19 pandemic situation.
AVAILABILITY OF MEDICAL EXPERTS
The Government should ensure that enough doctors and para-medical staff are available in sufficient numbers to provide medical care to the coronavirus infected patients besides providing medical attention to the other patients suffering from other critical diseases. Every life is precious should never be lost sight of.
NO POLITICS PLEASE BUT TANGIBLE ACTION SHOULD SPEAK
As has been observed, various political parties are pulling others down while the need is to chip in how best to reach out for rendering assistance where it is required. Passing on the buck does not solve problem anyhow only but being tangible action would.
BE NOT THE SUPERSPREADER OF CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC BUT THE CAUSE OF SUPER SPREADER OF HOPE AND WELLNESS
We should not do anything like not putting on facemasks or not observing social distancing or by spoiling the environs around and be the cause of spreading Covid-19 but the ambassador of hope and wellness to alleviate the situation created by this virulent virus.
Do not become cause of spreading lies and disinformation about the Covid-19 virus Vaccines. Rather encourage the masses to have injunctions in the way you can rather than spreading lies. I and my wife have very good experience of both the doses and we have not got any adverse effects after administration of vaccination.
Kindly don’t be the cause of disruption of vehicles transporting lifesaving Oxygen to the hospitals where it is mostly needed. The so called farmers sitting at the Delhi borders should take note. Be facilitators rather than interrupters to save life.
BE THE AMBASSADOR OF PEACE AND NOT THE CONVEYER OF GLOOM AND DOOM
Please do not create scenes at the hospitals where the doctors and their staff are performing the most difficult tasks. They are also human beings, they too have their families yet they are serving the society by putting their own life at stake.
EARTH SHOULD BE CARED MORE THAN NEEDED – LETS CARE MOTHER EARTH FOR OUR NEXT GENERATION SAKE
THE EARTH DAY ON 22ND APRIL 2021
The crying need for Earth Day was felt immensely After knowing the over-exploitation of Earth by the humans with cruelty To meet his ends so selfishly Thus abusing it enormously Thereby spoiling its balance hugely.
Thus with effect from 21st April 1970 sharp A day was fixed to honour the Mother Earth And the concept of peace Prosperity and of humans for their very survival Is dovetailed with it all.
This planet of ours provides us all the resources required Air, water, soil & fire which are most needed Besides, the living things such as animals and plants Which provide us food to eat – giving us energy, most needed Without which we cannot sustain and enhance our existence Even for a limited period of time.
Spoiling the purity of any or many or all the natural bounties Will spoil the balance of the Mother NatureThereby impacting the Mother Earth.
The bosom of Mother Earth contains fossil fuel And wood from the over-ground too Which are used for furniture and building materials And could ultimately be used for cremation too.
Minerals and metal ores are contained below the earth’s crust Which are used for making products most useful for us humans As raw materials in industries For finished products finally. Besides, providing meaningful employment too Which enhance our comforts in our daily lives Thus developing, modernizing and facilitating us To provide ease which shapes our lives.
The quality of air, water and other bounties of nature Are pure when taken out from earth But the way we harness these bounties And extract them impact the entire ecosystem And thus the quality of these extracts Thus spoiling the sources of these natural resources Indirectly Impacting our existence.
The way the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted globally Tells the humanity a different sordid story This hideous infection has not merely Has taken human toll with its ill-effects but also impacted countries economically And in all likelihood it is a handiwork of one Country From where this most dangerous infection has originated The Mother Earth is helping in absorbing the dead bodies Either thru burial or through cremation Without any sort of discrimination Like any other mother on this earth Who brings up her children with full care and caution.
Due to humans’ negative attitude Our own dearest Mother Earth What we do to the Mother Earth so dear? It has been revealed without doubt Whence the humans disturb the balance of Nature By playing with the laws of Nature It gives birth to invisible enemies Most hideous ones It may be due to polluting the environs By fires of forests and deforestation Thus denuding the Earth CrustAnd spoiling the Eco-systemOr polluting the Water bodies By the pollutants from the households and industries Or through sound pollutionCreated by us so thoughtless humans Or worst still, Alas! May be imbalance in our eating habitsThereby deciding what to put on our plates and eat And what we as humans should desistLeave for the elements to takecare That bats may be the possible origin Of diseases like Ebola And now Novel Coronavirus Pandemic Which is having free run Infecting the populace around Thus having dangerous death dance globally.
The Mother Earth which bestows us with all sorts of gifts That sustains us from time we become flesh & blood Till time this body sustains us not.
With no expectations in return gift from us selfish humans
Some of us use Nature’s creations Which are harmful for our body.
We leave litters aroundAfter, partying & feasting at the mountain sites so enchanting With fragrance of natural flowers just intoxicating Making the environment so fascinating Adding splendour to the scenic beauty are the flora and fauna.
But the left over litters just spoil the virginity of mountain spots With spread of odour of leftovers of the people partaking foodstuff Stench also leaves a scar on the act of these people Who spoiled the place with their profane acts.
Left out road side old vehicle parts Wait till eternity for the people to pick these up Nobody ever comes to do this solemn actTill elements like winds and rains mix these in the Mother Earth itself – alas!
NATURAL WATER BODIES SHOULD NOT BE POLLUTED
Vehicle repair workshop just line up the roadsides Blackening the area with grease and what not Generating a shabby look around Green cover is being denuded For habitats for increased numbers And cultivation of food for multitudes Thus multiplying the adverse implications To the Eco-system Causing blizzards and change of climates. Plundering the earth of the mineral wealth In the form of crude oilPrecious metals, stones and coal Leaving the earth bereft of natural resources Thus producing an imbalance to the internal fabric of the earth Which too comes out & reacts most violently Causing earthquakes of huge intensity Spreading deaths and destruction all around hugely.
Spewing of gases so poisonous To the sky above with impunity Enlarging the black-hole and creating wide-black-hole in our health Impacting us by most harmful sun rays.
My humble payer to all Have some pity onto the Mother Earth Not for us presently but AT LEAST for our coming generations,
EARTH DAY ON 22ND APRIL 2021
SCENIC BEAUTIES ON THE EARTH SURFACE SHOULD BE PRESERVED AND NOT SPOILED
Bhagwad Gita, too much credence is given to mother earth. It is here that water, fire, air, living beings of every kind including humans reside (of course with body, mind and intelligence. All these are originated from God Almighty.
Earth, water, fire, air, ether, mind, intelligence and false ego—altogether these eight comprise My separated material energies. Bhagwad Gita.
Essentially, as far as our Earth is concerned, it has physical matter, solid substance along with gross objects. These are grouped in the category of the five elements (Mahabhutas) which could be termed as the cosmic substances. These are earth, air, water, fire and ether. Each one of these elements are inter-linked or associated with each other besides the space or ether or acts like a container or basket to sustain all these elements.
If these elements are spoiled by our acts of omissions and commissions as diminution of forest cover by cutting trees without planting the new ones, emission of poisonous gases in the atmosphere from the industrial units, pollution of water bodies with the affluence/wastes of industries.
Here Mahatma Gandhi’s quote is most relevant: ‘Earth provides enough to satisfy every man’s needs, but not every man’s greed.’
EARTH HAS RICH SCENIC BEAUTIES WHICH SHOULD NOT BE SPOILED
It has been observed that when we do not observe the Laws of Nature and play with the Mother Nature irrationally– in our eating habits including our attitudes towards other creations (birds and animals). This Earth Day is coming at a time when globally the humanity has been facing the challenges posed by Novel Coronavirus Pandemic. The virus, Covid-19 virus, is the creation of humans due to their omissions and commissions by spoiling the eco-system of the Mother Earth by their eating habits. This most dangerous virus infection is transmitted through minutest droplet particles through respiratory droplets. The virus is also transmitted through contacts with the infected person through the medium of sneezing and coughing.
For fulfillment of our ulterior and selfish motives, we are spoiling the eco-system without even a slightest thought about the consequences of our acts. Therefore need of the hour is to save the Mother Earth from the pollution which is impacting the lives of all the living beings globally.
Our benevolent God has created Earth and everything which it contains, including various seasons suiting the living world. The humans should maintain the balance of Nature by not spoiling the natural setting. All the elements of Mother Nature are beneficial for the living beings for their sustenance.
Photo by Oleg Magni on Pexels.com – BEAUTIES OF EARTH OUGHT TO BE MAINTAINED
In Bible it has been mentioned: For behold, He who forms mountains and creates the wind. And declares to man what ae the thoughts, He who makes dawn into darkness, and treads on the high places of the earth. The Lord God of hosts I His name.
We know that the most essential forms of Nature without which we cannot have our existence at all are Earth, Water, Fire, Ether and Air. We know that life on this earth would not be possible if any one of these forms of Nature are not available at all.
All the creations live on the earth and use air and water by our body for chemical reaction which occur in the cells of all living beings in order to sustain life. This chemical reaction is termed as metabolism. This activity ensures growth of our body and also help in reproduction. The activity of growth and development along with reproduction cannot happen without a solid earth for living beings. Then there are the living beings which live and sustain themselves in water. These are called aquatic beings.
EARTH HAS BEAUTIFUL FLORA AND FAUNA
Mother Earth has been very kind to us in providing us everything from birth till death. It has on its crust trees, birds, forest cover and everything; lofty and majestic mountains, vast sea, water reservoirs, mesmerizing scenic beauties, flora and fauna, animal world and what not. All these add to our sustenance in our daily lives.
Mother Earth contains all sorts of mineral wealth which is helpful for further growth and development of the countries. But exploitation of the mineral wealth has also got a limit. We are cutting trees indiscriminately affecting the eco system. Industrial wastes are being thrown in the rivers polluting the water. We spew dangerous gases to the atmosphere affecting the atmospheric balance. Not only this even teh Antarctic Continent is being adversely affected by the acts of us humans.
Then we have ether (the atmosphere over the earth) which is essential for the survival of the living beings. The upper air of the atmosphere has to be kept pollution-free for breathing. It has been seen that we spoil the balance of Nature by polluting the air by our own omissions and commissions.
Our earth contains flora and fauna – flora means trees and fauna means animal world. The trees are essential for us since the trees convert Carbon Dioxide (CO2) into Oxygen (O2). Without trees and green cover, on earth, we cannot have good health and wellness. The more trees we plant, the more greenery we would be having thereby a pollution-free environs for breathing.
The fragrance of flowers on the earth crust, the fruit trees, the crops we grow on the earth give us food to eat which sustains our lives.
If air is polluted by emission of harmful gases, we will be breathing in impure air resulting in lung related diseases, if water is impure, we are constrained to take in polluted water resulting in impacting our health, if earth’s eco-system is polluted by a mix of our activities then we can imagine the health hazards besides when the whole atmosphere is polluted, it can bring about severest harms to our climate, cause lung and respiratory related diseases, exposure to polluted air can cause cancer and could in many cases impair reproductive system etc. These affected severely are children and the old people including those who are constantly exposed to pollutants.
By our acts of omission and commission, we are doing everything to spoil the balance of the nature which is causing negative results implications to our next generations. In Bhagwad Git has rightly been said: As the earth thus becomes crowded with a corrupt population, whoever among any of the social classes shows himself to be the strongest will gain political power.
The citizens will suffer greatly from cold, wind, heat, rain and snow. They will be further tormented by quarrels, hunger, thirst, disease, and severe anxiety.
Both Nature and Spirit (Purusha) are without beginning and end. Nature is the source of all material things whereas spirit is the source of consciousness which experiences pains and pleasure. Then we have Spirit Supreme or Lord Supreme or Supreme which directs our lives and graces us wellness.
RAM NAVAMI is the birthday of Lord RAMA the seventh Avatar (Incarnation) of God Vishnu (The Lord responsible for evolution of the creation). He was born to King Dashath and queen Kaushalya in Ayodhya. On this day, people recite Ram Katha in praise of Lord Rama besides listening the discourrses from Epic Ramayana which is considered sacrosanct for the devotees. The devotees worship Sun God tii for his blessings on this day.
The devout usually visit Shri Ram temples and pray there. They also participate in Ram Bhajan congregations. But due to uncertain situations and conditions created by novel Covid-19 pandemic, the devotees are advised to remain at the confines of their homes and pray for the safety of self and their well-wishers. Charities too are done on this auspicious day and others keep fast on this day.
The celebrations at Ayodhya are worth mentioning. The devotees also pray Sita Maa and Lakshman besides Lord Hanuman Ji who stood by Lord Rama through thick and thin. The people also take a dip in Saryu river in Ayodhya (UP).
From the life of Lord, as has been mentioned in Epic Ramayana, from the very childhood, he is the personification of goodness as a child, disciplined and most obedient disciple at the Gurukul where he underwent spiritual orientation as well as training in use of weapons (which he proved during his marriage with Sita Ji, the daughter of King Janaka, king of Videha), he proved his prowess by breaking the Shiva’s melted bow which other kings including Demon King Ravana could not break it. His exchange of hot-words with Rishi Parushrama (also an incarnation of Lord Vishnu) too are very motivating and worth taking note by us humans.
Here Rishi Parshurama learnt a lesson from this discussion – that we should not be offensive with anybody or everybody without realizing its final implications. Here self-estrait and introspection (Atamchintan) is a must before taking any decision having far reaching implications.
Lord Rama being the elder son of King Dhashratha was to be anointed as the King of Ayodhya but due to the fulfillment of pending two promises of Queen Kakeyi it could not happen. The two promises to be fulfilled by the King were: anointing Bharata the King of Ayodhya and second one was exile to Rama for 14 years to jungles. After coming to know about the promises Lord Rama, as an obedient son agreed to go to the forests for 14 long years without even a single demur. We the youth should learn from this.
LORD RAMA JI, SITA MAA, LAKSHMNA & LORD HANUMAN JI
Lessons
Lord Rama acted on the percept of his family: Ragukul reet chali aayi paran jaye par bachan na jaye.
And also, we should always obey the orders of our elders come what may.
As destined, Lord Rama, Sita Ji along with brother Lakshmana went to the jungles for 14 years exile. There they came face to face with various difficulties since during those days the jungles were infested with ferocious demons. They ate fruits and herbs that was available in forests. But one day Shrupnaka, the sister of Demon King Ravana came to the place they were residing. She created an ugly situation due to which in a fit of rage, Lakshmana cut her nose. She reported this matter to his brother Ravana who abducted Sita Ji with deception. Ravana’s brother Bibishana exhorted his brother to not to commit such a sin and return the consort of Lord Rama with respect which the demon king did not agree and as a reprisal expelled him from his kingdom.
Lesson: Result of deception and committing sin sully our character beyond repair.
Thereafter, there Lord Hanuman and Sugriva along with their entire force of monkeys invaded Lanka. Then Ravana’s brother Bibshana too joined Lord Rama in his fight which he considered as a fight against evil. Lesson: Conniving with the evil is equivalent to committing evil.
Lesson: We should cultivate friendship rather than enemity.
Subsequently, a furious fight ensued between the two forces wherein King Ravana lost all his forces along with his brother mighty Kumbkarana along with his son Meghnath were lost. Finally King Ravana too lost and met his end.
SUN GOD TOO IS WORSHIPPED
Lesson:
First: Evil may flourish for sometime but finally it will be vanquished one day. Second: Those who do not use their knowledge wisely meet their end thus leaving a scar on their character.
Ravana was a knowledgeable one being one of the greatest Bhakta of Lord Shiv but he did not use his acquired knowledge meaningfully therefore met his disgracefully end.
After returning to Ayodhya, Lord Rama ruled his kingdom with empathy, evenhandedness and treated all his subjects equally. After listening the whispers going on about his consort Sita, he decided to send her to the forests. She remained at the Asharam of Rishi Valmiki (The original author of Ramyana). She gave birth to two sons named Luv and Kush who were equally brave like Lord Rama.
Lesson:
Lord Rama ruled his kingdom and loved his subjects equally. He without any hesitation sent his own wife (Sita Ji) to the jungles while a whispering was going on in Ayodhya.
Following are the lessons from the life of Lord Rama:-
AN OBEDIENT SON
He obeyed the order of his father and went to the forests on 14 year exile without any sort of reservation or even demur. Our generation should learn lesson from this.
MODESTY TO THE MAXIMUM
He took half-tasted berries of Vilini – an old lady who was a Ram Bhakta. He relished the berries with love showing his modesty/humility and broad-heartedness.
KEEP CALM DESPITE HARDSHIPS
Despite the fact that Demon King Ravana had abducted his consort, he kept his cool and kept searching his wife. Only once he lost his cool when the Ocean was not listening him to give way, he felt using his weapon to dry the ocean with is arrow. Thereupon, Ocean asked for forgiveness and showed him the proper way. Even he wanted to forgive Ravana if he returned Sita Ji with dignity but he did not do so therefore met his end.
NEVER LOSE HOPE
When his brother Lakshmana lost his consciousness due to the use of mystic weapon by Meghnatha, he sent Lord Hanuman Ji to bring herbal which could restore his consciousness. When Hanuman Ji was a bit late Lord Rama did not lose his composure and hope.
IMPORTANCE OF FRIENDSHIP
Lord Rama developed friendship with Hanuman Ji, King Sugriv and others who, put together made the fight with Demon King Ravana possible and ultimately defeated and killed Ravana who was the personification of evil.
TREATMENT TO HIS SUBJECTS EQUALLY
When the question of serving justice was concerned, Lord Rama treated all subjects equally. When the question of providing justice in case of Sita Ji came, he sent her to forests. He also fire-tested her chastity because she had stayed in the kingdom of Demon King Ravana.
RAM NAVAMI IN COVID-19 ENVIRONMENT
When Coronavirus is playing its death dance Attacking the vulnerable ones with vengeance Who come in contact with each other without any protection When people are observing lockdown condition Observing distance from each other while outside the residences If and when it is inescapable to go out in emergent contingencies When we’ve to celebrate Ram Navami after fasts’ observing Despite situation created by Covid-19 – so very trying Yet we’ve to think more about life and living Rather than getting swayed by the current of coronavirus Defeat the mindset so negative And create conditions appropriate all around by helping the needy Thus learning from the life of Lord Ram Who was the embodiment of righteousness & virtuosity – Maryada Purshotam With most adorable traits with immense prowess, full of idealism The Avtara (Incarnate) of Lord Vishnu – the one who stood for Truth A reservoir of humility with simplicity in abundance Tolerance, harmony and elderly reverence That every offspring should possess in profusion Along with the respect for the elderly and parents The traits which Lord Rama had in sufficiency He left for 14 years exile, leaving everything and everybody Most dear ones too in Ayodhya When his father King Dashratha of Ayodhya Was constrained to act on the promises made in the past To his wife Kakai – mother of Shri Bharata And step-mother of Lord Shri Rama Who had saved Shri Dashratha’s life once By putting her own life in danger Consequently, extracting two promises for fulfilling At a time and occasion of her own choosing, Manthra – the courtier of Kakai too showed her true color, In making Queen Kakai realize the promises First promise being crown for her son Shri Bharata And 14 years in exile for Shri Rama. Shri Ramji, as expected, accepted exile for fourteen long years And that too without slightest demur He embraced the life simplest in the forest Accompanied with Sitaji – the consort of Lord Shri Rama With brother Lakshmana too accompanied Shri Rama Living on the fruits and herbs that existed there in forests.
Truly speaking, the crux of a lesson for today’s younger generation Is to respect and obey the orders of the parents Who want our wellness in all situations and conditions.
Lord Rama had the knowledge of Vedas And being the fondest Bhaktas of Lord Shiva The knowledge he had had thus attained from his Gurus and parents.
Ram Navami should establish a kingdom of love for all of us in abundance Overflowing with peace, full of tolerance, a feeling of goodwill for all A kingdom of love for everyone Factually leaving none For it is a celebration for destruction of virus In the form of Novel Coronavirus Which could only be done With self-discipline By keeping distance Along with observance of home quarantine Then we should be able to defeat the virus from spreading Pray do not be super-spreader of virus so virulent But be super-spreader of message as to how to contain the virus Our true celebration of Ram Ravami Would be to spread positive messages For containing the virus and destroying it altogether.
The banyan trees which seemingly are as old as the installation of sacred Stone Shila. The off-shoots of these trees have come down to the ground and replaced the old trees many a times.
The devotees wrap pieces of handkerchief with a prayer to Mata Ji for grant of their wishes. The wrapped piece of handkerchief is then unwrapped after their wishes are fructified finally.
Rising of Sun God on the Eastern side of the Chintapurni Temple.
Setting of Sun God on the Westen hoizon of the Chintapurni Temple;
REASON FOR BASIS OF SHAKTI STHALS (PLACE OF MYSTIC PROWESS)
We all are aware about the betrothal of Shiva and King Daksha’s daughter named Sati whose marriage with Lord Shiva was held despite opposition of Daksha. King Daksha wanted to hold a Yajna in order to insult Lord Shive. For this purpose, he did not call either Lord Shiva or his daughter Sati. But Sati, anyhow wanted to participate the ceremonies in connection with the Yajna wheein all the Gods and Demi-Gods were invited, though Lord Shiva showed his reservations. He wanted that she should not be an uninvited guest even even at the residence of her parents. Despite Lord Shiva’s instructions, she went to her parents’ house to participate in the Yajna celebrations.
While she reached her parental house, she was not given any sort of welcome or reception by her father. Like an uninvited guest she was treated very rudely besides there was no mention of Lord Shiva where Lord Baramha and Lord Vishnu too attended. Meaning the Trinity was not not given whole representation since the absence of Lord Shiva was felt by the Sapat Rishis and other Demi-Gods present there in the Yajna.
After receiving cool response from her father, bordering on disespect from her father, Sati felt hugely slighted and this insulting behaviour of his father Daksha towards Lord Shiva made her lose her patience and tolerance. There were two ways open for her, either to leave her father’s place pocketing insults and insinuations or take her life by plunging in the huge Yajna sacrificial fire pit. She took the second step in a fit of rage without thinking about the unsavoury consequences/repercussions finished her life altogether. It is mentioned that Satikund is situated in Kankhal (Haidwar in Uttrakhand) which was fully desecrated when Sati jumped into the Sacrificial Fire Pit (Havan Kund) and died.
Subsequently, when Lord Shiva came to know about what had happened to his beloved consort, he took out two locks of hair from his head and thrashed it on the ground. Veerabhadra and Bhadrakali were born out of these strands of hairs. He bore a garland of skulls and other weapons with which he looked very ferocious besides Bhadrakali is a fearful incarnation of Devi. They killed everybody which came their way i.e. nobody could stand their prowess. Veerbhadra tore off the head of Daksha and tossed it into the same sacrificial fire pit.
Lord in a fit of rage carried the lifeless body of Sati and started performing Tandav Dance (the dance of destruction). Fearing the destruction of the entire earth and its creations by this act of Lod Shiva, Lord Vishnu shredded the lifeless body of Sati into pieces with his Sudharshan Chakra which fell into different directions. Each piece became Shakti Peeths. There are 52 Shakti Peeths which are visited with highest reverence by the devotees for getting their graces. Whosoever visits these sacred places with good intention get their wishes fulfilled.
LORD SHIVA WITH LIFELESS BODY OF SATI
The prominent Shakti Peeths being Kamkshi Amman Temple, Taripura Sundri Temple in Tripura, Purnagiri Temple at UttaraKhans, Surkhanda Temple in Uttarakhand, Naina Devi Temple in Uttarakhand, Mangla Devi Temple in Bihar, Maya Devi Temple in Uttarakhand, Shitala Devi Temple in Bihar, Chichi Maa Temple in Samba (Jammu), Lata Wali Maa, and many othe Power Sthals at different places..
Chintpurni Temple at Village Barwal, Tehsil and District Kathua.
CHINTPURI TEMPLE AT VILLGE BARWAL TEH AND DISTT KATHUA (J&K)
CHITPURNI TEMPLE AT VILLAGE BARWAL (KATHUA)J&K
A prominent Shakti Peeth exists at Village Barwal, District Kathua (Jammu). The devouts pay their repects to Chintpurni Mata Ji and get bountiful blessings from the Mata Ji.
On my visit to the temple, I met one of the Management Tustee, Shri Karan Singh (aged more than 80 years) who takes pain in keeping the temple and its surroundings neat and tidy including explaining the devoutees the historical perspective of the temple. He informed me that they had heard from the older members of the community that one day a reknowned spiritually oriented person had a dream in which he had a vision of Mata Ji who informed him to come to the specified place and erect a Pindi so that devotees could also come there for offerring their prayers for getting benefits in the same manner Pindis of Maa Vaishno Devi, Kali Maa and Sarswati Maa were found at Katra Vaishno Devi in the similar way
He infomed me that before current temple along with inns around were constructed, the old tell-tale signs of Pindi existed. A Stone Pindi was erected with the image of Mata Ji with the chanting of Mantras by the priests while the women folks sang songs praising the Chintpurni Maa with immense mystical power, suffusing with benevolence for her devotees. She is really a mother divine with Chinta for her devouts – meaning one who cares fully for her devotees.
Image of the stone pindi found along with iron icons are given herein:-
This sacred Stone Pindi installed earlier times was taken out after due diligence and after recitation of Vedic Mantras besides singing of songs by the womenfolks in praise of Goddess Chintpurni.
Subsequently, a temple was constructed with the voluntary contribution of the people of the villagers. Again, a new Pindi was installed the image of which is given below:-
OUTER PRESCINCTS OF THE TEMPLE
The banyan trees near the temple prescincts are as old as the history of the temple as has been revealed by the olders members of the village and the people of the village around. The information about Mata Chintpuri and the banyan trees have been transferred from generations to generations. From the state of the banyan trees, the old ones are giving place to the new off-shoots which establish their moorings on the ground. This adds to the beauty of the place and seemingly due to the bountiful blessings of the Mata Ji.
Periodically, Yagnas are held wherein the villagers contribute as per their propensities. A community feast too is held wherein general masses partake parsad, prepared specially for the occasion. This community feast and Yagnas are occasionally held. This serves two-fold purposes. Firstly, it adds to the community feelings and secondly it enhances the spiritual orientation of the people. To top it all, all will get bountiful blessings of our Mother Divine for their peace and prosperity.
May the bountiful blessings of Maa Chintpuri remains on us all so that we all of us be in peace and prosperity for ever.
