INNER TRANSFORMATION

INNER TRANSFORMATION COMES WHEN WE HAVE INNER PEACE

INNER TRANSFORMATION

A most relevant question pops up, who is a truly spiritual person? Is he a happy person, a person with satiety or a person with compassion? I opine, a truly spiritual person is the one who performs his duties/functions (At home, at work place along with the society at large) with singleminded purpose of spreading positivity around. All this happens when we achieve inner transformation. This inner transformation or inner engineering does not come about easily since it has got wider undertones. These undertones have to be understood thoroughly and made applicable in our day to day routines.

HAPPINESS IN US MANIFESTS WHEN WE ARE HAVING SATIETY

Importantly, a truly happy person is remains satisfied with what he has or may not have. In fact we consider ourselves when we are having material possessions. But those who are possessed with the idea of worldly possessions as prerequisite of happiness are outwardly happy but may or may not be internally happy? Being happy in all situations and conditions (good or not so good state) is a true happiness. But how this comes about? This comes about when we have inner transformation. When we have attained inner contentment, then we’ve inner peace and with inner peace everything is possible. Therefore, true happiness manifests when we are conscientiously aware of our limitations and potentials; try everything to obliterate our limitations and imbibe righteousness. Righteousness in our conduct, behaviour, attitude, approach/outlook for inner illumination is the moot point which we should never forget.

INNER TRANSFORMATION COMES ABOUT WHEN WE KNOW WHAT IS HAPPENING INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OUR ENVIRONS

OUR ASSOCIATTION WITH TRUE MASTER COUNTS A LOT

It should always be remembered that our association with a rightous person also instills in us a feeling of rare happiness and for a change we feel happy even when there is effusion of sadness in ua. In such an association, we are amidst of most appropriate and affirmative setting that we forget our own worries and try changing ourselves accordingly. Contrary is the affect when we’re in the company of a unrighteous and irreligious person since a negative oriented person who picks holes in others’ pocket creates unsuitable surrounding wheresoever he goes.

INNER TRANSFORMATION COMES WHEN WE ADOPT ALL THE RIGHTEOUS TRAITS

HAPPINESS SPRINGS FROM OUT INNER SELF

A true happiness comes from our inner self and does not come from outside our being. If do have everything to satisfy our needs, we may have happiness but that happiness is momentary; a shortlived happiness. It goes as it comes. There is no permanancy in its existence. Incredibly it may seem but it is an undisputed fact that true happiness spring out of our inner self and not from our outside.

 AN EGOCENTRIC PERSON IS NOT A HAPPY PERSON

Recently I came across a person who called himself a knowledgeable person could not stop finding faults at the throw of a hat while showcasing his own understanding, factually bordering on egocentric tendency. Seemingly, he was not happy himself since those who insult others are not at peace with themselves. They want to twist somebody’s arm to appease their own ego.  I am of the opinion that a person who does not lose any opportunity in lowering others is not happy themselves. Such persons are irrelegious and nitpicking which display their hollowness. Such people, of necessity, require overhauling and transformation in their attitude.

OUR OWN LIMITATIONS AND IMPERFECTIONS

In essence, being aware of our flaws is the first step. Then the process of refinement of our shortcomings starts. This is done partly due to our own efforts and partly with the able guidance and blessings of our Gurus or true masters, the one who has the aptitude and experience in transforming the unrefined traits into refined ones. In all this transformation, we should have enough patience as nothing happens in haste and isolation.

WE REMAIN POINTING FINGERS AT OTHERS

It is a sad commentary that we do not identify our own shortcomings but remain pointing out fingers at others. Till such time we see our inadequacies, we have no right to pinpoint others weaknesses. Therefore, transformation is the first requisite to be better human being than what we were yesterday.

SPREADING SMILES SHOULD BE OUR PURPOSE IN OUR LIVES

It should be our endeavour to spread smiles in others too. We can spread smiles only when we are happy ourselves since a sad person can only spread sadness wheresoever he goes. Therefore, our motto should be: may all be happy.While I was studing in school, I vividly remember a Morning Prayer or Mantra which is given as under:

Om Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah
Sarve Santu Niraamayaah |
Sarve Bhadraanni Pashyantu
Maa Kashcid-Duhkha-Bhaag-Bhavet |
Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti ||

The meaning of the Mantra is:

Om:

May All be Happy
May All be Free from Illness
May All See what is Auspicious
May no one Suffer
Om Peace, Peace, Peace.

SPREADING SMILES WITH LOVE & LIGHT COUNTS FOR INNER TRANSFORMATION

If the above mentioned Mantra is made applicable in our lives, we can not merely transform our own self but also the people around and beyond. This prayer is more relevant now than ever since we are living in the shadow of death and destruction caused by Coronavirus pandemic which has adversely impacted our lives.

Necessity of INNER TRANSFORMATION:

• For inner transformation, inner engineering is a must. For this, we have to change our ways of thinking and acting.

• Imbibing all good ideas and thoughts of our Gurus and True Masters and make these applicable in our day to day lives.

• All of us have some imperfections and indequacieis, these should be, first of all, identified and then efforts made on war fottings to remove these through self efforts and if need be we should take the help of enlightened souls.

• We can be better person through personal experiences and also from the experiences of others around us.

• Spreading smiles and happiness should be our prime goal since those who are enlightened spread LOVE & LIGHHT ARROUND wheresoever they move.

OBSERVATION OF SHRAADDHAS FOR OUR DEPARTED SOUL WITH IMMENSE REVERENCE

SHRAADDHAS ARE BEING CONDUCTED BY THE DEVOUT FOR THEIR ANCESTORS WHO HAS DEPARTED

SNRAADDHA when we remember our departed souls with immense reverence and devotion.

In Bhagwad Gita has rightly enunciated that nobody should commit any mistakes in the performance of duties towards our ancestors’ soul and the God. Those Pitrs for whom no Pinddaan is given, they remain in the negative region. Therefore, a person with intellect who knows the difference between right and wrong should not abstain from performing Shraaddhas for their ancestors. This year these are observed with effect from 20^th September 2021 (Monday) to 6^th October 2021 (Wednesday).

As a person puts on new garments giving up old ones, the soul similarly accepts new material body, giving up the old and useless ones. Bhagwad Gita.

In essence, the our forefathers, due to which we are here on this beautiful earth although are not with us in flesh and blood yet their memories are still remain fresh. As a mark of respect,, we tend to reminisce them  especially on special occasion termed as Shradhas.  Shraaddha  has been derived from the word shradha meaning devotion or attachment. Therefore, it is the time when we show our respect to our departed souls in our own tradition. By remembering them and doing charity, we mitigate our own persisting problems. Otherwise, we may be engulfed in the Pitru Dosha which may be committed by us or by our near ancestors who no longer are with us presently.

SHRAADDHAS

FLORAL HOMAGE TO OUR FOREFATHERS WHO HAVE LEFT FOR THEIR HEAVENLY ABODE

Shraaddhas are the essential rituals lovingly conducted
By the offspring of the (Pitr) the souls who have departed
And mixed in the elements
That is have gone from us to the lands unknown
Thus presently their sweet memories remain
To bestow us guidance
And consolation
Which we need in abundance
So that we’re delivered from the obstruction.
Now, as they have turned to Pitr (departed souls) domain
It is our duty, the bounden one
To remember their contribution
For our present position.

Besides recollection of their stellar part
To chart out a purposeful life of ours
For which they’ve contributed their mite
So, we’re duty bound to repay the debit
For bringing us to this world, so beautiful
And showing us the plays of Nature.

By observing Shraaddhas
With utmost Shradha or full devotion
We, in essence, showcase to our departed souls our love and affection
With complete faith and full of emotion at our command
So that our (Pitras) ancestors
Who might be in the dark regions
After their deaths
Are able to move from dark recesses
To the lights of the heavens
By attaining liberation or Moksha
By the performance of Shraaddhas.

SHRAADDHA BASED ON TRUE SHRADHA

Shraaddha or Shradha is the Sanskrit word which literally means Shradha of faith/belief and any act that is transacted with all the honesty and sincerity at our command according to pre-determined goal besides it has got sanctity faith/belief attached with it. Our emotional faith (Bhav) is a must for getting full benefits of the Shraaddas. Shradhas are observed for 15 days (in the Hindu month of Ashvin) termed as the Pitra Paksh Period is very auspicious to offer Pinddaan so that the departed souls may get liberation from births and deaths. Mention of this has been in the ancient scriptures like Upnishads.

This year these are observed with effect from 20^th September 2021 (Monday) to 6^th October 2021 (Wednesday). On these days, the Hindus reminisce their dead forefathers/ancestors due to which we are here on this earth. In other words, it is expression of our gratitude to our dead (Pitras)  and pay them due homage for their contribution towards them. In other words, it is expression of gratitude to our ancestors (Pitrs) due to whom we are on this beautiful planet.

The Shraaddhas are observed based on the date on which our parents or grand-parents have left for their heavenly abode. The date for the shraadhas are observed based on the death anniversary – on the Shraadha Paksha (Fortnight of ancestors).

These Shraadhas are also observed after the death of an individual (after the left out ashes are immersed in the holy water of river Ganga). These Shraddhas are performed accompanied with chanting of Mantras for the departed soul. The Sharaaddha ceremonies are also performed at Kurukeshtra (A Holi place in Haryana) in a water-body where there was a huge battle between Pandavas and Kauravas and Holi Song of Bhagwad Gita originated.

The Shraaddha rituals could be performed in Gaya (Bihar) the waterless river containing Phalgu (A type of sand) but water could be extracted from any spot by digging 2-3 feet at any part of this waterless river. While I visited Gaya and offered prayers at the famous Lord Vishnu temple and performed Shraaddhas for the departed souls of my parents, my brothers and grand-parents, and of course, for my relatives and friends who had left for their heavenly abode. I was spellbound by the air of Godliness everywhere there. It is believed that Sita Maa had performed Shraaddha rituals for her father-in-law Dhashratha at Gaya. It has been mentioned in Purana in great details.

The Shraddha rituals are performed not merely for our deceased parents, grand-parents but also our close relatives including small children who departed from this earth suddenly due to sickness or due to some unfortunate accidents. As these Pitrs (departed souls) have departed to their heavenly abode or may be not got Liberation or Moksha, due to one reason or other, the Shraddha performed with wholeheartedness will help liberate these departed souls.

Shraddha rituals are conducted during Shukla Paksh and Krishna Paksh in the following way:-

• Place where these rituals are held. First of all, it is essential that the rituals are held at a place which is known for performing these sacred rituals. It could be places like banks of river Ganga, Yamuna, Gaya, Baranasi etc. For these, there is no need of appropriate time like Shraddha Period (15 days).
• Pinddaan. This constitutes the offering consisting of baked rice, cow’s milk, desi ghee, honey, barley flour. All these are mixed together so as to make balls of contents as mentioned. This should be done with intense faith and belief with emotional attachment.
• Tarpan. It is the offering of clean water mixed with sesame, barley, and flour; in these, Kusha (grass) forms an important part. By adopting right approach besides absolute faith and belief, our ancestors could get the benefits for their onward journey from dark or negative region to brighter one.
• Offering to the Animals and birds. Before offering meals to the priests (Brahmins), it is considered a good omen or auspicious to offer the prepared vegetarian meal, prepared without use of onions and garlic, khir (prepared with cow milk, rice, sugar, dry fruits etc.) to the cows and birds. If the offering of Khir is taken by the crows, it is consider auspicious.
• Feeding to the Brahmins. Subsequently, the prepared meal is offered to the priests (Brahmins) with utmost reverence and emotional faith.
• Clothes and donation. After Priti-Bhoj to the Brahmins, they are offered clothes and cash so as to cover their expenses to reach the place of Shraaddha rituals.

Benefits of performing Shraaddhas

It goes without saying that anything performed with utmost devotion and singleness of purpose, will surely and without shred of doubt gives us benefit. But it should be done with total focus and devotion. Benefits of Shraddhas are:-

• In essence, what happens to the departed soul depends on the karmic deeds or misdeeds the particular individual has done while living in flesh and blood on this earth. It has been mentioned in scriptures that after the death the purvaj may not get final deliverance (antim mukti), for this performance of Pinddaan while observing all the steps in the rituals will help the Mukti of Atma of Pitr; if it is not done already according to the Karma or deeds/actions while ling.
• When we perform all the rituals in connection with the observance of Shraddha rituals like invoking God with spiritual emotion, the connectivity with God and our Pitras (Ancestors for whom rituals are being performed). Not only the person performing such rituals are benefited but also the deceased soul.
• Shraddhas are the re-payment of debt for what they (Our Pitrs departed souls) have done for us by showing us the path including transferring the family traditions and value system to us. This is also an opportunity to offer gratefulness to our ancestors, family deities and the God including our Gurus who have shown us the purpose of life to us.
• Shraaddhas help the Pitrs (deceased relatives) to move from Pitru areas (which are considered as negative regions) to higher plane for them. For this reasons may be any – may be lesser Karmic Credit during their life-time.
• When the departed souls get their share of Pinddaan along with other important ingredients like black sesame seeds, Kusha, rice floor balls etc. including the emotionally surcharged faith/belief.

• When Shraaddhas are not done for a deceased soul (Pitrs), then that Pitr remains trapped between real world and the heavenly abode.

• Those who do not perform Shraaddhas of the departed souls, it is believed that they get entangled in the Pitru Dosha like: 1. Remaining ill 2. A life bereft of peace and prosperity.3. Abnormal birth of children. 4. The family members may indulge in gambling, addiction to drinking or drugs etc

It should never be forgotten that the benefits of conducting Shraaddhas not only to the deceased Pitrs but also to the person perform the rituals in a systematic and with complete devotion and singleness of purpose. It should be construed as the responsibility of the offspring to offer Shraaddha to his/her deceased ancestors for their ultimate liberation (Moksha).

DUALITY

DUALITY

THERE IS ALWAYS LIGHT AFTER PITCH DARK – THIS SHOULD NEVER BE FORGOTTEN

In essence, in our life, all of us confront two sorts of situations. We are both happy and sad, right and wrong, temporary and permanent, honour and dishonour, disturbance and calmness, good and bad, day and night etc. Whenever we face appropriate situation, we feel pleased whereas when we face inappropriate situation, Primarily it means, we are living in dual world of ours. We are constrained to live in positive and negative situation. How best we can adjust in given situation depends on sagacity of the individual concerned. Adaptability in any situation and condition is the need of the hour.

The myth of certainty and uncertainty just remain haunting us. We have to be consciously aware of the true picture whether an event is certain to happen or not. This is happening presently in the Covid-19 pandemic situation. We are not certain whether this infection will not haunt the humanity in the near future. Then there is certainty of our death but when that remains uncertain! It is a considered fact that what we know for certain is truth and what we are doubtful remains in the realm of uncertainty.   

There are people who are frightened after meeting some emergent situation. They are fearful of the consequences of their action. But a person with fortitude remains balance and courageously faces any eventuality which comes in the way. In Bible it has rightly been proclaimed: Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

We cannot dispute, difficulties would be there for us but will to face the difficulties will make us more determined to face the challenges in life. We must face those difficulties with full willpower with forbearance. While summer season is there, winter season will not be far off. We should be determined like deep sea whose currents and storms do not disturb the inner recess of sea.

WE HAVE TO BE LIKE A TREE WHICH TAKES ON ANYTHING AND KEEPS IT HEAD ERECT BESIDES BEING USEFUL TO ALL LIVING BEINGS

It is a fact that a person with self-confidence and confidence on our God does not feel perturbed when put in critical situation. He remains balanced both in appropriate and inappropriate situation and condition.  In Bhagwad Gita, it has rightly been said that a determined man is illuminated from within. He is enlightened soul. One who is enlightened soul will not lose his composure even when he faces dark clouds. Since such a person is full of satiety, hot and cold does not affect him at all since he is illuminated from within he is satisfied from within therefore is not able to affected by dualities since material possession and egocentric tendencies do not affect such a person.

It goes to show that if we are satisfied from within then we can be adaptive to change, in whatsoever state of affairs we are placed we can handle any situation and condition. it can only be understood that if we are strong from within ourselves then nothing can bother us. Hot and cold, in an event, will not affect us at all.

It should be understood that fear from within our own self. It should always be borne in mind that we are having six enemies which exist in our midst. If we keep ourselves away from these enemies then nothing can defeat us. These enemies are anger, greed, ego, lust, jealousy and illusion. An individual who is determined to keep himself away from these six vices possesses the traits of equanimity a balanced state of mind.

We know lust for status and lust for worldly possessions by any means can ruin ou character and if our character is lost everything is lost forever.

THERE IS HEAT, THERE IS COLD BUT A PERFECT PERSON ALWAYS WITHSTAND EVERYTHING; RAIN, BLIZZARD, EXCESSIVE RAIN, DRY SPELL, FLOODS, ETC. NO PROBLEM IS BIG ENOUGH TO BREAK US IF WE ARE DETERMINED AND STRONG FROM WITHIN US

• Anger, we know robs us of our true self. Anger robs us of all clear perspective since emotional outburst at the slightest provocation proves that we do not have total control on our mind.

• Ego is enemy number one of our own self since when we consider that eveything is happening due to us, then, we remain attached to the fruits of our action then we shall not be able to transact our work in hand with focuseed mindset.

• Greed for worldly possessions will bring in its wake more greed. Then illusion or Maya is figment of our imagination. If we nurture this idea, then, we shall not live in true world of ours.

• Lust for worldly possession or any other longing will endues us to adopt even immoral and unethical means to fulfill the desire we want to fulfill.

• Envy or jealousy is a negative trait. When we feel jealousy, it goes to show that we are resentful at others progress.

• Illusion or delusion is therefore a mirage and keeps us away from reality in real sense of term.

Anger is one of the most difficult of all provoking situations to control. We have to learn to control anger and one who can do so is a successful person.

We should always be like a tree, every part of which is helpful in everyway. It gives shade to the travelers, shelters the birds besides being generator of oxygen and absorption of carbon dioxide. Even then it takes heat, withstands storms and other elements. Withstanding everything and not bending, but can break with the onslaught of heavy storm. We have to learn much from the tree and show forbearance and patience like a tree, taking on all the challenges which come in our life. We should cultivate all the traits of a tree. It does not ask anything in return but provides everything which is required for the living beings. Duality of any sort does not in any way affect a tree. .

HAPPY GANESH CHATURITHI ON 10TH SEPTEMBER 2021

LORD GANESHA

LORD GANESHA

Worshipped as Vinayaka, Ganesha or Ganapati
Possessing all encompassing potencies
He is most easily identified
With elephant head
Ganesha is born out of the dirt
Rubbed out of the body of Adi Shakti
Goes to prove without even a shred of doubt
That even the dirt or worthless matter could have boundless prowess when properly harnessed
Power which is mystic in nature  to say the least.

Lord Ganesha is the one who is the first deities to be venerated
Whenever any business or any venture is to be initiated
Since He is bountiful and venevolent of all the dieties.

Factually when a new venture has to see the light of the day
Lord Ganesha is worshipped for getting His graces
For self and for our dear ones
And also for getting peace and prosperity for us all
Along with good wishes for smooth sailing in anything we undertake.

Ganesha has two consorts
Named Ridhi and Sidhi
Ridhi is for our prosperity
Sidhi is for getting spiritual orientation in our existence
Including increasing positive thoughts for actionable results.

Lord Ganesha is also worshipped
For ensuring protection
From the ill-omens
Along with increasing the power of recreation
Whilst removing obstacles from our path
Because Lord Ganesha
Is considered as the patron
Of sagacity and intellect in abundance
He is both Veghanaharta
The one who removes the obstructions from amongst us all
And a Vegana Karta an obstacle creator for the evil doers.

HAPPY GANESHA CHATURITHI TO ALL

Before delving on as to why we celebrate Ganesh Chatruthi, it is essential that we should know the circumstances and how life was infused in a lifeless creation by Goddess Parvti – the Shakti with unlimited power. This lifeless creation was the smut obtained after scrapping the remains of sandalwood paste applied on her body or dead cells scrubbed out out the body of Maa Parvati.

Ganesh Chaturthi or Vinayak Chaturthi is celebrated on the birthday of Lord Ganesha – which falls between 19th August to 20th September every year. This year, His birthday falls on 10^th of September. He is the most loved son of Lord Shiva and Lordess Parvati. The devotees’ firm belief is that on this most auspicious day, He bestows his supreme blessings on us with His presence and showers His bounties (shuvta) on us as He is the Lord of prosperity, unlimited wisdom, and a trouble shooter to the core.

LORD GANESHA WITH LORD SHIVA AND MAA PARVATI

LORD GANESHA IS CONSIDERED TO BE THE MOST BENEVOLENT DEITY

The Ganesha’s birthday is celebrated according to the Hindu Calendar month of Bhaadrapada starting with the Shukla Chaturthi – 4th day of the waxing moon period till 14th day of waxing of moon. There is a celebration of ten days for which comprehensive preparations are made before hand. This includes; procuring lovely idol of Lord Ganesha, preparation of eatable, especially modaks for friends and relatives, some install Ganesha Idol on this day at their homes for getting His graces. This festival is celebrated in almost all the parts of India. Even in foreign countries like Canada, USA, UK etc where Indians are there, this festival is celebrated with gaiety and enthusiasm. It has special relevance in Maharashtra

HOW THE BIRTHDAY OF LORD GANESHA CAE ABOUT?

Legend has it that Lordess Parvati created Ganesha out of sandalwood paste which was applied on Her body before taking bath. She was impressed by her own creation which ignited her curiosity of breathing/infusing life into that creation. Low and behold, the creation of Maa Parvati came to life!

Subsequently, Maa  Parvati told him to guard the entrance of the bathroom and ordered him not to allow anybody enter it while she was taking bath and attending to other rituals. All this transpired when Lord Shiva had gone somewhere. When He returned back, Ganesha, standing guard at the entrance, did not allow Him to enter. When he was asked as to  who he was. Ganesha replied that he was Ganesha the son of Maa Parvati!

Lord Shiva sent His Ganas including powerful Nandi to teach the child a lesson in mannerism. As Ganesha was created by Shakti, he was very powerful besides being obedient to the core. Indira and his army of demigods too used their power to overpower Ganesha but in vain.

Now it was the turn of Narda with Saptarishis came for persuading the child for allowing Lord Shiva but it was also a futile exercise. All this infuriated Lord Shiva still further. Out of anger, He cut the head of Ganesha with His Trident. When Maa Parvati came out after Her bath, she found the severed head from the body of her creation. This scene enraged her immensely. Observing her state of mind, Lord Shiva promised to bring back to life their son. For this purpose, the Demigods went in search of the person facing north. They could not find any humans. They could find only bring the elephant’s head which was fixed on the headless body. Ganesha came back to life instantly through the supernatural powers of Lord Shiva. He was graced with several bounties by Lord Shiva and other Demigods. The purpose of this creation by removing the egocentric tendencies based small head of Ganesha in the initial stage of creation and replacing with bigger Gajhead with immense wisdom and sagacity with no ego at all. The intention was to bring about change from negative to positive orientation by Lord Shiva. This infusion of positivity in Lord Ganesha; with immense wisdom and intelligence is beneficial to us devotees. And that is why we all worship Lord Ganesha to get all the bounties with our sincere prayers onto Him.

Modhak (dumpling made out of grinded rice, mixed with sugar, jugglery, fruits etc) is the choicest eatable of Lord Ganesha.

WHY GANESH CHATURATHI IS CELEBRATED?

Previously, only Hindus used to participate in the festivities but presently there is a community participation in this festival. There is enactment of concerts; discourses based on intellectual/spirituality related topics, skits, folk dances etc. Dahi Handi competition is another interesting and much awaited by the participants. Here prizes are also given. People of all castes, religions and colour participate in these festivities and this becomes a fertile ground for national integration and engenders understanding between different communities. All these activities have twofold benefits. Firstly, it enhances unity in diversity and secondly it ensures competitive fervor between people.

As Lord Ganesha is embodiment of good tidings, people start their new businesses on this most auspicious day so as to have His blessings for the success.

From the above, it is evident that this auspicious day of Ganesh Chatruthi is celebrated for ensuring cohesion / unity between all the communities, encourage non-discriminatory ideas/ideals besides getting opportunity to celebrate the auspicious occasion imbibing spiritual onward march and finally to get Lord Ganesh’s bounties of unlimited intelligence and wisdom.

 LORD GANESHA’S WISDOM IS WELL KNOWN

He is the one who penned down Mahabharta dictated by sage Vyasa at one sitting itself. This shows his wisdom, patience and persistence.

Lord Ganesha is known by 108 names but the following are its prominent ones:

VIGHNAHARTA

Vighna means problems or troubles whereas harta means to remove. It goes to show that Lord Ganesha has the power to remove the impediments or troubles from our midst.

VINAYAKA

Vinayaka is similar to Vighanaharta; the one who removes troubles from our midst.

GAURISUTA

Gaurisuta means son of Gauri (another name of Goddest Parvati). She is possessing all the powers to remove any hurdles which comes in our way.

BALCHANDRA

Balchandra; Bala means child and Chandra is associated with moon. Lord Ganesha carries the moon as a holy sign (Tilk) on his forehead.

EKADANTA

Eka signifies single or one danta means tooth oor tusk.  When Parashuram got very angry with child Ganesha, when he came in his way when he wanted to meet Lord Shiva, Parashuram chipped one of Ganesha teeth.

VAKRATUNDA

It means Ganesha is the first incarnation. VAKRA means curved and TUNDA mwans trunk. He is known to have regain the kingdom of Gods by overpowering demon Matsara with his power and intelligence. Chanting OM BAKRATUNDA AHE NAMON will make us a candidate for Lord Ganesha’s graces.

LAMBODRA

It means the one who has a huge belly. According to Mudgala Purana, Lord Ganesha is Lambodara Avtara. He helped in protecting the Gods from Krodasura.

KRISHNAPINGAKSHA

It is said that Lord Ganesha is known to have the characteristic of seeing everything from anywhere and anywhere. It also shows that he had the same traits as Lord Krishna (The Avtara of Lord Vishnu).

MY  PRAYERS TO LORD GANESHA

May Lord Ganesha, who is very benevolent and compassionate to His devotees may bring peace, prosperity and wellness to all the humanity. Also, my prayer to Lord Ganesha is to rid us all from the Coronavirus pandemic which has proved dangerous and caused deaths.  

HAPPY PRAKASH DIVAS ON 7TH SEPTEMBER 2021

GURU GRANTH SAHIB JI

HAPPY PRAKASH DIVAS ON 7TH SEPTEMBER 2021

Guru Granth Sahib is one of the most sacred of the scriptures
Construed as the revealed words in religious studies
Spoken factually by the Gurus & other most revered Saints
Known for their wisdom of highest order
The holy impactful one is termed as Gurbani
Meaning spoken from the mouth of Gurus & sacred saints
The most revered ones indeed
We’ve firm conviction that these holy words
Are the words of Waheguru Ji (God).

Guru Arjan Dev Ji the Fifth Guru
Laid the solid foundation
To bring together and facilitated in its compilation
Which contained Mool Mantar, Japji and Sohila
Composed by Guru Nanak Dev Ji
The First Guru – the most revered one
As a collection of his Holy hymns
The scripture was known
Thence this Holy Book was termed as the Adi Granth
Installed in Harminder Sahib
On 16th October 1604 by Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Subsequently in 1706 the Adi Granth
Became Guru Granth Sahib Ji
The supreme and Eternal Living Guru of Sikhs
Which was declared by Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji added 1 Sloka
In Mahala 9^th  Aug 1429
Enriched by the teachings
Of Indian saints of repute
Such as Ravidas, Ramananda, Bhagat Bhikhan,
Kabir and Namdev
Besides Muslim Sufi saint Sheikh Farid.

Every word and phrase of Guru Granth Sahib Ji
Is based on the society and its wellbeing for practical utility
Including the Justice of our Waheguruji (God)
Which bestows enlightenment to us all
The Holy Granth is revered as Gurbani
The holy words of Gurus
The voice of sanity and wisdom which shows us the path how best to live our life
Guru Granth Sahib Ji is the spiritual authority of Sikhs.

To dispel doubts of Mughal Emperor Akbar
He undertook a random checking
And found his doubt as false alarm
By the vested interests
He too found the Holy Granth as treasure house of spiritual knowledge (gyan).


Guru Granth Sahib ji is revered
And termed as the eternal living Guru
The most respected spiritual guide and Guru
Which inspires all the communities of the world
With its sagacity and wisdom
Written in Gurmukhi
Meaning coming from the mouth of the Gurus
The revered ones opined
That through reciting His Naam
Through Shabad Kirtan
Could bestow the human
With bliss – an eternal joy.
Then compositions by the Sikh Gurus
Added scriptural richness to the Eleventh Living Eternal Guru.

May the teachings of Eleventh Eternal Living Guru Ji
Remain enlightening the humanity as a whole
For eternity with the blessings of our Guru Jis.

HAPPY TEACHERS’ DAY

HAPPY TEACHERS’ DAY ❤🕉😀🍟

As a mark of respect to teachers, Dr. S. Radhakrishnan had rightly asserted ‘Instead of celebrating my birthday,  it would be my proud privilege if 5^th September is observed as Teachers’ Day.

In Bhagwad Gita, it has rightly been said that we should learn the Truth through a spiritual master or a Guru. We  should resolve all our doubts but while doing so, we should pay him respect and serve him the way we can. Such a enlightened soul can impart us knowledge from the reservoir of information he has attained over a period of time.

DR. S. RADHAKRISHNAN : A GREAT PHILOSOPHER AND THINKER

An ideal teacher is a priceless gift of Omnipotent and Omniscient God
Since this priceless gift of God builds the character of the pupils so solid
So that the students face the challenges of life with fortitude.

An ideal teacher quenches the knowledge-thirst of his disciples analytically
Impart needed education with a great sense of responsibility
By going deeper into the subject matter objectively
Thus making learning & teaching process an exercise so easy
Thus inculcating holistic growth & development so that his pupils face life’s challenges effectively.

An ideal teacher gives meaningful tasks to his students
In the class-room settings even while pursuing online classes
Or through home assignments to keep his students updated
Thus making the teaching a fascinating exercise.

An ideal teacher takes online teaching
As an alternative to formal schooling
In the Covid-19 pandemic situation
Thus ensure transformation of students’ education
According to the change in prevailing condition.

An ideal teacher is a human being who is kind-hearted and humane to the core
Imparts and spreads awareness amongst students and more.

An ideal teacher exhibits traits of tenderness & gentleness in abundance
And ensures that likewise these good traits with heavy dosee of patience
Be puts in his students with a heavy dose of tolerance.

An ideal teacher has a huge reservoir of endurance
And try imbibing the same in his students along with resilience.

An ideal teacher has attitude bereft of any discrimination
Against his pupils, with whom he teaches with utmost concern.

An ideal teacher posses sincere attributes with a firm belief system to follow
So that students absorb goodness and excellence in every way.

An ideal teacher inculcates the traits of compatibility
So that his students could adjust in any territory.

An ideal teacher is the modest and free of any egocentric tendencies
And expects these traits in his students..

An ideal teacher teaches the art of diplomacy in day-to-day existence
So that for getting their things done they do not follow the path of violence.

An ideal teacher removes the ignorance of the learners
And infuses enlightenment with self-belief and self-confidence
And transforms his raw pupils who changes according to the changed circumstances.

An ideal teacher, of necessity, should lay a solid foundation
So that the students can weather all storms which may come in the lives of their students.

An ideal teacher adopts different methodologies to set right the weak areas
Of his students to the best of his/her capacities and capabilities.

An ideal teacher teaches the value of innovations
With a lot of motivational appreciations
As and when needed most essentially.
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An ideal teacher is firm like a rock when need be
But soft like ice when needed hugely.

An ideal teacher has the genteel outlook with pleasing personality
Impresses the students with the lessons imparted so diligently.

An ideal teacher is sought after by the students personally
Because of his method of making even a most difficult lesson look so easy.

An ideal teachers uses trial and error method, so skillfully
Or through subject interaction technique so adeptly
Or Froebel method of freedom to act in a stimulating ambience
Or Montessori’s method tells us about the atmosphere so serene
With stress on social justice and community justice and fair-play
Method may be any, but spirit of teaching remains the same
The ideal teacher ensures that his students get enlightened in every way.

An ideal teacher teaches through discussions and collaborations
With each other for knowledge dissemination
Or through knowledge gained through experimentation
In a variety of situations and conditions.

Teaching could be by a formal teacher in the formal institute
Or informally through any informal institutions
Like temple, mosques, and churches so pious
The purpose is to disseminate instructions

To make huge difference in the students life surely
So that they get indepth know-how to face the life squarely.

An ideal teacher is resilient and infuses resiliency
Since greatness comes with the traits of flexibility.

O my God, please do help the educators
To realize his/her dream of shaping the destinies of his learners
So that when they grow up they become a better person
Who gets adaptive in any circumstances with positive disposition.

TEACHER IS AN ENLIGHTENED SOUL WHO CHANGES OUR OUTLOOK ON LIFE

As a great teacher, Lord Krishna exhorts his disciple Arjuna to cut doubts that have developed in his heart, burn the ignorance with the sword of knowledge (Jnana) while taking shelter in Yoga of action.

WHY TEACHERS’ DAY IS CELEBRATED ON 5^TH SEPTEMBER?

Teachers’ Day is being celebrated on 5^th September as a tribute to Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, a thinker, philosopher, a most proficient statesman besides a learner of repute. He was born on 5^th September 1888. While his admirers requested him to celebrate his birthday, he replied that he would consider himself more honoured if his birthday is observed and celebrated as ‘TEACHERS DAY’ which is according being done.

EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENTS OF DR. S. RADHAKRISHNAN

It is worth mentioning about his early life. He did his Masters in Philosophy, thereafter, became professor of Philosophy at Madras Presidency College. He was appointed King George V Chair of Mental and Moral Science at University of Calcutta. He is well known for his knowledge of scriptures and known as 20^th Century philosopher of Comparative Religion and Philosophy. He became Vice Chancellor of AP University in 1931 and also VC of Banaras Hindu University. He also taught Eastern Religions and Ethics at Oxford University besides being appointed Haskell lecturer in Comparative Religion at University of Chicago.

DR. S. RADHAKRISHNAN AS A GREAT PHILOSOPHER AND A THINKER OF REPUTE

He was not having much experience in politics and that is why he is referred to as the politician in shadow. He became the Vice President of India in 1952 and subsequently as the President. His insightful treasure of critical study of Indian Philosophy is worth mentioning. That is why we consider him a great thinker and philosopher. His philosophy was grounded in Advaita Vedanta. He proved to be a bridge between the East and the West.

A TEACHER SHOULD IMPART KNOWLEDGE WITHOUT ANY BIAS

I was obviously pained after observing the unethical and un-teacher-like attitude of an educator. A teacher should impart knowledge without any discrimination. For a teacher, every student is a learner and should try hard in removing ignorance and disseminate know-how. A teacher who is unbiased and imparts education to all without any ulterior consideration is precious – a gift of God. 

TEACHERS AS THE BUILDERS OF A NATION

In essence, the teachers could be very rightly construed as the builders of a Nation as they assist the students in drawing out their inner potentials thus shape their future. The ideal teachers are the ones who exert sincerely and find out potentials and weak areas of all the students in the class and devise various methodologies in bridging the gap besides inculcating discipline and cooperation fervor amongst the students.

WHO IS AN IDEAL TEACHER?

Importance of ideal teacher, as a national builder, although is acknowledged and appreciated, yet, one thing that needs to be remembered is that a teacher should be dispassionate or unbiased in attitude towards all the students. A good teacher should command respect from the students, exhibit the high sense of integrity, should be a unifying force and above all should be unbiased. For a teacher, all the students are equal and necessarily need attention equally while clarifying all the concept queries of all the students.

A TEACHER IS ALWAYS A LEARNER 

It should be kept in mind that knowledge has no limits. When we learn one thing, there is yet another thing to be learned. A teacher who enhances his knowledge and keeps himself updated on variety of things can quench the thirst of his students in a meaningful way. It should be kept in mind that now a days, the students can get knowledge from a variety of sources; net connectivity, media etc. yet, the knowledge imparted by the teacher is second to none, it has the formal stamp of authority and wisdom along with heavy dose of love and affection. 

ATTITUDE OF A TEACHER OR A GURU

The teacher or a Guru should be knowledgeable, unbiased, compassionate, and his only intention should be to teach the students and make them a true citizens so as to face the vicissitudes of life confidently that is. learn to be adaptive to the changed circumstances and  face the challenges in life with belief and confidence.

THE TRADITION OF TEACHER AND PUPIL:   GURU SHISHYA PARAMPARA  

The Guru (teacher) Shishya (pupil) tradition (parampara) is quite old in the Indian context. In Upanishads, the mention of Gurukulas have been made; here the progenies of the ruling classes and others used to get spiritual knowledge about scriptures such as Vedas, Puranas, Upanishads etc. The age group for this purpose used to be from 8 to 12 years. Besides, scriptural knowledge, the pupils (shishya) used to get weapon training too.For instance, there were Gurukul run by Drona to impart knowledge about scriptures and weapons – as imparted to Pandavas (of which Dhanushdhari Arjuna is the more pronounced one). Then there were discourses on the Brahman In Guru Varuni’s Gurukul on Indian traditions.

I am of the opinion that a true teacher is a person with humane touch and should possess the following traits:

• A teacher bestows knowledge about art and craft, gives lessons in history, geography, philosophy, literature, religious teachings, science and technology and other disciplines.

• A teacher or a preacher or a Guru also imparts spititual wisdom thus changing the lives of his disciples for a holisti growth.

• A true teacher remains a student for ever and instructs his disciples to be a seeker of knowledge for good.

• A true teacher imparts knowledge without any favoritism.

• A true teacher remains assessing his students’ capabilities, so that instructions he imparts are understood clearly by his students.

• A true teacher knows the performance of his students fully. He imparts students who are weaker in studies especially so that they too can adjust with students with sharper intellect not merely agreed and prescribed curricula but also let the students to be inquisitive.

• A true teacher goes beyond formal teaching but also explains quoting all the relevant examples so as to make his students knowledgeable.

• A true teacher raises the methodology of teaching to make his studies more interesting and purposeful.

• A true teacher  not merely takes care of the set of courses prescribed but also takes care about their health and wellness; by pursuing extracurricular activities too for a holistic growth.

• A true teacher not only imparts theoretical instructions but also encourages them to make the instructions applicable in the lives of the students.

• A true teacher helps the students to be disciplined, cooperative, and socially adaptive to change thus become a productive instrument of change for better future for all societies.

• A true teacher moulds the destinies of his students with his teachings so that when he grows up, he faces life’s challenges with confidence.

• A true teacher inculcates positive traits in his students.

Conclusively, it could be said, a teacher is an essential part of any society, who changes the destinies of the students in the way considered most appropriate in accordance with change in time and space,/situations and conditions. Besides an ideal teacher is himself a student for ever.