OUR FEELINGS & EMOTIONNS

OUR EMOTIONS SHOULD NOT GO UNCONTROLLED : PROPER BALANCE IS A MUST

OUR FEELINGS & EMOTIONS

We are what we feel and believe
If we get stuck with all sorts of feelings and emotions
We shall be stuck in the quagmire of these emotions
Thus getting lost permanently in the mystification
Of our own creation.

It is worthwhile to keep in mind
Proper introspection is a crying need
Thereby keeping in mind which emotion is beneficial
And which one will have negative implications
Ignoring the same since such an emotion
Will have negative overall ramification
On our physical and mental state
And become the cause of mood swings
Becoming, woefully a fittest candidate
For anger, depression, irritation, obsession
And all sorts of adverse implications
Impacting us physically and mentally.
Need is to acquire a healthy balance
As a way forward in our existence
So that we remain balanced
Both in happy and not so happy occasion.

EMOTIONAL MATURITY COMES WHEN WE EXPERIENCE LIFE IN EVERY WAY

OUR FEELINGS & EMOTIONS

It is fact that a life without any feeling or emotion is mechanical. The feeling or emotion is essential for us since if there is no feeling means it is not connected with life and life related activities. These emotions are in the form of anger, Irritation, Jealousy, envy, rancor, bitterness, resentment, disappointment, infatuation, , obsession, unhappiness, unhealthy criticism etc. Meaning, these emotions could be termed as uncontrolled feelings and emotions. Then there are positive emotions like happiness, calmness, coolness, gladness, joy, glee, laughter, amusement, healthy criticism etc.  These are termed as the controlled emotions/feelings.

HEALTHY EMOTIONS

In essence, when we do not feel disappointed in hot or cool situation and condition. This balance is not acquired by wishful thinking only. We have to experience ups and downs of life. This is done when we know that in life, sometimes we succeed in our missions and feel happy while sometime we are not able to be successful resulting in disappointment. One who understands the life in its entirety knows that happiness and sadness are the two sides of the same coin. We hardly can expect only happiness. If it were so, then, we shall have a sort of monotony in our existence.  It  goes to show that we have to live with positive and negative situation and condition.  But what is within our control is to convert our negative emotions into positive ones and do not lose our sleep when placed in negative situation. This is a state of balance. No matter in what sort of situation we are may be placed, we shall not lose coolness and composure.

In Bhagwat Gita it has rightly been said by Lord  Krishna to Arjuna: Contact between the senses and their objects, which give rise to the feelings of heat and cold, happiness and distress, etc. are transitory & fleeting in nature, therefore Arjuna, one should not get swayed by these and one must learn to tolerate them without being disturbed by them.

It is a considered fact what we think, feel, reflect, imagine, suppose and believe happens. We can call our feeling anything but it remains an integral part of our psyche. In other words, we as humans cannot exist without feelings. These are as inseparable from our own self as any part of our body.

NEGATIVE EMOTIONS

It is not worthwhile to get attached to them as though these negative feelings and emotions will impact us in any way. Surely these cannot be of any benefit to us. Only thing which these can do is spoil our present moment and may be future too. Then why to latch on to them for nothing? Just get rid of these sorts of negative feelings and go on with your life as though these are not the part of our thoughts. In actual practice we remain denying to ourselves that such feelings are there thereby doing a disservice on us. Sometimes we pretend that we do not keep the negative emotions but in actual practice these become part of our psyche as suppressed or repressed emotions and feelings.

For example, a few days back, somebody threw the dirt in front of my gate. I saw him doing so. When asked why he has done so, he flatly retorted that he had thrown the much on the street. I, in turn, cleared the dirt. But the way he spoke remained with me. I should not have kept such a negative feeling with me. I should have cleared the feeling as I had cleared the street in front of my home. There were two options. Either I must have fought it out with him or cleared the muck. I considered it wise to clear the muck without much fuss. The result was that the defaulter realized his folly and promised not to do such an act in future. Such encounters do happen in our lives on daily basis and we have to act according to the need of the hour and not to be carried away spoiling our present and may be future too.

Each of us are different in temperamentally, size, weight, intelligence, in thought process etc. Similarly, each feeling too are small or normal or big. Some are positive emotions and the others are negative in character. How we react to the feelings and emotions which arise due to some incident or any event, depends solely on our resisting power and power of introspection. Latching on to every bit of feelings will not serve any purpose.

NATURE PROVIDE BALANCE TO OUR EMOTIONS

Meaning, we should keep in mind which feeling or emotion to be acted upon and which one to be left untouched – like; let the sleeping dogs lie otherwise we may get bitten by these unnecessarily. In other words, engage with the feelings and emotions which are necessary and let others neglected and removed from the mind-slate.

Our feelings and emotions keep arising from time to time. Some are good and others fit to be thrown into the dustbin of time and to be ignored straight away. One of my colleagues in our office told me he does not fear to act when he finds that his feelings and emotions are of positively orientation.

WHEN DOWN AND OUT SURRENDER TO NATURE

Then there are our gut feelings or intuitions which could forewarn us of any coming event so that we may remain alert.

The mood swings  could be attributed due to following reasons:

ANGER

It has been observed that we tend to feel annoyed when somebody irrationally criticizes us for a reason. While in anger, we’re having hazy mindset, illogical thought process, etc. We all know that while in anger, our thought processses are adversely impacted. While in anger, we become impatient, intolerant, annoyed and act irrational.  We may get physical and mental health issues with persistent anger.

STRESS

The stress may be due to fluctuation in mood in relation with issues such as adjustment problems at home; due to discord between the family members, non adjustment at workplace and  the environment in which a person lives too has far reaching effect on an individual.

DEPRESSION

The gloominess may be caused due to non fulfillment of our desires or facing unexpected financial stringency.

ANXIETY

We may be anxious about the future of our life and that of nears and dears. Anxiety may also be the result of death of a breadwinner or any member of family, loss of job or feeling of uncertain future.  There are several incidences of Coronavirus pandemic deaths due to which there is a prevalance of anxiety.

PHOBIA

The irrational dread of some unexpected incident could trigger a feeling of phobia in the mind of concerned person.

IRRITATION

We become bad-tempered if somebody criricizes us irrationally without any substantive reason.

SLEEPLESSNESS

There are unsavory incidents in our life which negatively impact of life resulting, sometimes loss of sleep or insomnia.

LACK OF CONFIDENCE

While we have mood swings, we may feel letdown in every way and its result could be lack of confidence  every way we can imagine.

NERVOUS BREAKDOWN

There are incidences and unpleasant events due to which we have nervous breakdown impacting us physically and mentally.

POSITIVE & NEGATIVE FEELINGS/EMOTIONS

Essentially, our feelings remain with us as we walk or talk or in all the activities we transact. Feelings and emotions are to felt as per their importance. Some are to be avoided and the other ones are to be acted upon. Even in sleep, we get a strange sort of jerk while in the verge of entering into deeper stage of sleep – termed as ‘sleep start’.

OUR EMOTIONS ARE IMPARTANT PART OF OUR EXISTENCE

Our feelings are part and parcel of our existence. We have only to understand its true meaning and importance in our life. We’ve to sieve our feelings too as we put the floor through a sieve so as to remove the residues. Similarly, every feelings or emotions are not worth taking consideration. Some are to be put through our thought processes and shunned as we throw the filth from our homes. Need is to avoid those feelings and emotions which may not be of any consequence for us and keep for action the ones which may have positive implications for us and the people we hold dear.

WE SHOULD NEVER GET STUCK WITH EMOTIONS WHICH IMPACT US ADVERSELY

It is also important for us to know as to which feeling and emotion have to be kept into consideration and which one to be ignored after introspect. In other words, we should not clutter of mind with unnecessary and crazy feelings which spoil our night sleep. It is just like our interaction with people we find fit for picking u conversation. We do not do so with anybody or everybody with whom we come across. It also depends on our association or close relationship we are having for a conversation to be useful. Similar is the case with our feelings and emotions. We ignore what are irrelevant while considering the most relevant ones.

IGNORING ALL EMOTIONS IS UNHEALTHY

It is also a fact that we cannot ignore all our feelings and emotions straight way. In that case we cannot have purposeful life. Getting stuck in every feeling and emotion is also not healthy for our existence.

OUR EMOTIONS GET MATURITY IF WE LEAN MORE ON NATURE THAN MECHANICAL DEVICES

CONCLUSION

In life, we face ups and downs. If we are happy today, we may face some adverse incidence and feel down and out. We should always keep in mind that if we have night then day is not far, meaning we should have positive attitude in our life. We should always think that nothing is permanent and even negative emotions will not last for long. Therefore, we should cultivate a healthy balance in our life thus living a life in sync with Bhagwad Gita: During the dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna, Lord Krishna stresses that, the wise human being to whom pain and pleasure, happiness and distress etc. are alike, and who is not tormented by these contacts i.e. remains steady in both is certainly eligible for liberation and immortality.

A MILESTONE OF 1000 WRITE-UPS!

I wholeheartedly thank WORDSPRESS.COM for congratulating me for publishing 1000 posts on wordspress.com. Penning down of thoughts on Wordspress give me immense pleasure and enhances the creative instinct. Three CHEERS to wordspress for accommodating me. My thanks to other authors to whom I follow and learn from their write-ups besides a special gratitude for my readers/

WITH WARM REGARDS,

HARBANS KHAJURIA

HAPPY KARVA CHAUTH : A FESTIVAL TO MAKE LOVE BON STRONGER & ENDURING BETWEEN HUSBAND & WIFE

A  FESTIVAL TO MAKE LOVE BOND STRONGER & ENDURING BETWEEN HUSBAND & WIFE – KARVA CHAUTH OR SANKAT CHAUTH

A FESTIVAL WHICH CONSOLIDATES AND GIVES WARMTH TO THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HUSBAND AND WIFE

Festivals in all hues are plenty in number
In some celebrate inception of pleasant season
Others to memorize some rare personages
Some to cement relations between love ones
While others are of huge National importance
But there are the ones
Which are of immense significance
And stand for consolidation of interpersonal relationships
Between the partners in the household – the spouses
Along with other relations in the household
Thus assist in uniting the bodies, minds and souls
Karva Chauth, in essence, is one such festival of immense significance.

Marriage is the most sacred of all the institutions
With attached duties and obligations
Which differ based on religions and cultures
Wherein the spouses
Unite to fulfill a common purpose
of uniting the interpersonal relationships
With sanctified and sanctioned biological relations
As per the cultural modes and traditions
Unite to fulfill a common purpose
Of procreation
To keep the civilization
And then under parents’ care steady evolution
Of their progeny
Different cultures follow different customs
And cultural mores of behavioral patterns
To provide legal, social, financial, spiritual support
To each member with whom they have emotional bond.
There are varieties of traditional
And cultural modes which are followed
But each has the common purpose
To enhance the emotional bonds
Between the two spouses.

As a reminder each year
That they have common goal at hand
To offer sincere prayer to Almighty God
For longevity of life-span of her husband
The women folks observe strict fast known as Karva Chauth
Karva means an earthen pot
It is tastefully painted
While Chauth means day fourth
A festival falling on fourth day of Krishna Paksh.

While a strict fast for the entire day is observed
The women folks do not take anything
Not even a drop of water to quench their thirst
For this is the holiest day
When the women folks pray to God
To grant longevity to their husbands & entire family
Along with peace and prosperity
Besides good health and wellness aplenty
So that all live a life full of care for each other
While fulfilling the purpose of their lives
This day too is considered as the sacred one
To renew the promises made
While solemnizing their marriages
And thus establish a relationship
Which could withstand any hardship
Which may come in the way
While the couples perform their multifarious functions
As husbands & wives – lovely the partners
For taking care of their family effectively
With a common objective of transferring traditional modes
Of behavior with rock-solid conviction
That while good relationship between spouses is significant
But when this happens with the blessings of our Lord,
Our home becomes in reality a heaven on the earth
Since the bounties of Almighty God are exceptional
Since there is no expectation.

LET THE LOVE BETWEEN SPOUSES REMAIN ENDURING

LET THE LOVE BETWEEN HUSBAND & WIFE INCREASE FOR WELLNESS OF THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Karva Chauth is the festival for consolidating the relationship between husband and wife wherein the wife keeps a strict fast for the safety and prosperity of her husband with a prayer to Almighty God that He may bestow full protection to her husband against any incident. This fast also reminds us of the vows administered at the time of marriage. This festival is also called as SANKAT CHAUTH, where SANKAT means withstanding or facing entire obscurities while observing strictest fast.

LOVE BETWEEN HUSBAND AND WIFE SPOUTS WITH TRUST

Karva means earthen pot (mainly a spherical earthen pot and paint the same with different colours so as to beautify it) and Chauth means fourth day – a festival which falls on the fourth day of fortnight or Krisha Paksh of the fourth day of Kartik (Full Moon – Poornima) according to Hindu Calendar. In some parts in India, wheat is kept in the Karva (pot) because of wheat sowing season (Rabi crop cycle). On this day women folks observe strict fast for the long life of their husbands along with pray for the peace and prosperity of their entire family..

CONGREGATION TO RELATE THE OLD-TIMES STORIES CONCERNING THE IMPORTANCE OF THIS DAY

The married women sit in a circular form, exchange their metal dishes (thalis) which contain prayer material (Puja Samagri) and adornment /make-up materials along with a lightened earthen wick etc which is exchanged with other women sitting in the group.

The married women also exchange their views on the taboos which are strictly observed during observance of strict fast lest something bad happens to their husbands. Women also relate old-times stories concerning the importance of this festival in the form of songs. These stories highlight the importance of this festival. In other words, this festival signifies the importance of love between husbands and wives – a festival for fostering bond of love between spouses.

I WITH MY WIFE WITH MY GRAND SON

The main purpose is to showcase with utmost sincerity the importance of spouses (Husband & wife) in their lives. The songs are sung in the praise of Lord Shiva-Parvati (Shiv-Shakti) and Ganesha with traditional fervor and devotion to earn their bountiful blessings for the well-being of their husbands and in turn their families.

FESTIVAL FOR CONSOLIDATION OF RELATIONSHIP
BETWEEN SPOUSES

This festival symbolizes the consolidation of relationship between husband and wife and also with others in the family. Not only in the family, the married women consolidate their bond of friendship with other women in the neighborhood by making the common friends (Sahelis) with whom they exchange their beautification materials such as bangles, bindis, sandoor pot, ribbons etc. This shows the bond of friendship of feminine with not only their husbands but also other members in the household including the neighborhood.

Now-a-days, even the fiancés are observing fasts for their would-be-husbands for the safety and progress.

Karva Chauth is one such occasion on which the ladies observe fast for their men-folks for their wellbeing, pray to God for their longevity besides keeping the tradition which has long been observed in our society. The ladies observe fast without taking anything – means without taking water or any eatable till the fast lasts. This fast is observed very strictly. On this pious day, the ladies put on their best attires with ornaments and pray for their husbands’ long life and good health and wellness. In some cases, the husbands too observe strict fast from morning till it lasts.

ORIGIN OF THE FESTIVAL

On this festival is observed in Northern Part of India. It is believed that the grown up men-folk used to go for military campaigns leaving their families at home. Their wives prayed for their husbands for their return safely.

LEGENDS CONNECTED WITH KARVA CHAUTH

There was a woman named Karva. This woman was loyal to her husband. During bath in a water-body, her husband was caught by crocodile. Karva bound the crocodile with a cotton yarn prayed the Lord of Death Yama to spare her husband and send the Yama to hell for his misdeed. She was so much so devoted to her husband that the Lord of Death had to agree to her entreaties. Such is the effect of fast with purity of mind and soul. Also, it gives credence to the fact that if we perform anything with sincerity and singleness of purpose then we can have mystical results; which we least expect in our lives. On the other hand, if we perform any ritual or keep fast just because others are keeping fast so do we; by so doing, the very purpose of fast gets defeated.

STORIES ABOUND ABOUT OBSERVANCE OF FAST

There was a queen named Veervati. She observed fast while she was at her parents’ house. Due to strict observance of fast, she felt it very hard to be without water. Her seven brothers felt for the life of their sister and created an artificial moon. She took water due to which her husband died. She offered prayers to Lord Shiva and Parvati for restoration of the life of her husband since he died because of the fault of her brothers. With their grace, her husband’s life was restored. Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati appeared in person to her and advised her to observe fast very strictly.

LEGEND CONNECTED WITH ARJUNA

There is also a legend connected with Arjuna and Draupti of Epic Mahabharta. While Arjuna had gone to the forests for his strict penance, Draupti observed strict fast due to which Arjuna’s task was achieved without much difficulty.

STORY OF SATYAVAN SAVITRI

The story of Satyavan Savitri is well known. She was one of the daughters of a king. She was very pious lady. She remained absorbed in meditation. She was more devoted to God due to which her father thought that she did not love him. He wanted to teach her a lesson. He married other daughters to the most suited grooms and she was married to a poor leper named Satyavan by his king father. Being of poor health he could not survive for more days. When Lord Yama came to get Satyavan’s soul, Savitri requested him to spare his husband’s life. He refused doing so. On that day she had observed a strict fast. While Lord Yama was taking the soul of her husband, she followed him. Finally, Lord Yama, after seeing the steadfast attitude of Savitri, asked her for a boon. She asked for nothing but the life of her husband which was ultimately granted by the God of Death.

OBSERVANCE OF STRICT FAST

The married women observe strict fast from the early morning hours, without taking anything including water. They take fenis (Made of wheat flour) along with some eatable water in the early morning (before sun rise) and subsequently observe fast for the complete day. The sargi is prepared by the mother-in-law. They pray for the safety of their husbands. They wait for till seeing the moon. They see their husband first before seeing the moon through a sieve. Then the husbands help their wives to take some water. The wives pray to the Moon God for the safety of their husbands and pray for their lives and also that they may shine like the Moon.

MARRIAGE AS A SACRED INSTITUTION IS THE HIGHLIGHT OF THIS FESTIVAL

Marriage as an institution functions to its optimum when both the spouses have the intention and inclination for its success. In this, both the spouses are equal partners. If one partner considers other one lowly and inferior then this institution totters and collapses under the weight of its contradictions.

Marriage succeeds on the basis of understanding, compatibility, accommodation, no skepticism of any sort, be sympathetic to the need of other partner, be considerate and sympathetic to the pain of other partner and devising ways and means to alleviate such pain. This pain may be individual one or created due to some other emotional upsurges while performing multifarious functions in the family fabric. This emotional upsurge may also be due to either of the two partners’ parents related or based on some incidence which happened prior to the marriage. In other words, understanding other partner’s viewpoints and being a partner in assuaging, addressing or solving the problem consolidates the foundation of marriage as an institution.

My wife has been observing this festival for the last 41 years and I know how much love and affection we have for each other along with my love ones are having while following all these rituals from morning till late evening. Beya or gift is also given to mother-in-law by the wife and both of them (husband and wife) pray for her (Mother-in-law’s) long life.

PRAYER FOR GOOD WHEAT CROP

The wheat is kept in the earthen pot which coincides with the prayer for good wheat crops.

EXCHANGE OF MAKE-UP MATERIALS BETWEEN MARRIED WOMEN

The women in the evening hours collect in the courtyard and sing the praises of the deity for the safety and prosperity of their husbands. They also exchange gifts mainly the beautification materials or make-up materials (shringar) and other home- made sweets. All the women observing this fast put on their best dresses specially made for this festivals.

While ladies of the household observe the Karva Chauth strict fast as a festival and an annual celebration for the well-being of their spouses, it is in the fitness of things to draw out some lessons from their endurance, conditioning, steadfastness etc.

EMPOWERING WOMEN

The married women keep fast, observing all the strict rules of this festival, not taking even a grain of food, fruits or even water during the observance of fast, we should all introspect, how much these special creations of our Creator endure without whom there would not be any continuation of civilization. Are the men-folks giving anything tangible in return which they deserve!?

Then, why should we not do something concrete so as to empower women and should not take them as a second class citizens as some of us take them to be? Then there are the cases of rapes, maiming, throwing acid on the faces and even killing for not succumbing to their untenable pressure tactics. Special laws should be made in order to aware exemplary punishment for those who take law in their hands and exploit the women folks.

It is an undisputed fact that men and women work for the wellness of their families, therefore, it is essential that both enjoy freedom of expression and action without coercion from any quarter. Nothing should be done to browbeat the women folks or show disrespect to the women.
It has been said that those households who do not treat women honorably and do not pay due respect to them, such homes do not have holistic growth and development. They lack grace of Almighty God. Therefore, the women folks should have their due share of respect in different societies and should not be treated as the playthings to please men-folks.

My sincere prayer to the Almighty God is to bestow all peace and prosperity besides this Holy Day of Karva Chauth may consolidate the bond of relationship between husbands and wives till their entire lives .May the Lord Ganesha remove all the obstacles in the path of smooth relationship between spouses for peace and prosperity in the family.

PRAKASH DIVAS IS BEING CELEBRATED ON 28TH JULY

PRAKASH DIVAS  IS BEING CELEBRATED ON 28^TH  JULY 

GURU HAR KRISHAN JI

Almighty God is  most benevolent
He sends His messengers to this planet
Who make a huge difference by their acts of wisdom
And self sacrifice at the cost of lives of their own.

This messenger of God was born on 23 July 1656
To Sri Guru Har Rai & mother Sulakni ji
He was eighth of Ten Sikh Gurus Jis’
Succeeding his illustrious father Sri Guru Rai Ji
Surprisingly being only of five years!
The youngest amongst all the Guru Sahibans
Having all the traits of being a Guru

A huge reservoir of grace and being soft at heart
Leaving his elder brother
Due to his collision with Mughal empire.

There was an incredible incident in Gurudwara
Near Ambala at Panjokhra
A Sanskrit learnt person challenged the Guruji
To explicitly explain the verses from Bhagwad Gita
Lo & behold, Guruji just pointed a stick at Gangu Jheevar
An illiterate with no literacy to bank on – a total blank
Surprised everyone
By speaking out sermons of Bhagwad Gita to the perfection.

Thence Guruji came to Delhi at Gurudwara Balaji
Where large populace came to have dharshan of Guruji
But as ill luck would have it
There was, in and around Delhi, smallpox epidemics
Guruji with his soft emotional feelings
Brimming with love for hapless populace
Took upon himself their ailment happily!
In the process became too weak to move
Refused taking any treatment for cure!
Called for five coins and a coconut for a purpose
Waved his hand three times in the air
And told that his successor be found in Bakala in Punjab
Thence he left his body at the age of seven!
He lived for others and left his mortal body for others
He advised his disciples/sangat
To respect the will of Almighty God
And praise Him and do not feel disappointed
At his untimely demise which was for hapless
Examples of which we find rare in the annals of history.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is built
Place of which was gifted by Raja of Rajesthan
After Sri Guruji, with his mystic power
Fulfilled Raja’s litmus test of recognizing
His queen amongst several ladies lining
Surprise of surprises, Guruji did this without even a moment losing

Where Guruji provided succor to epidemic strickens
And left for his ultimate journey
Though less in age as year count
Yet mature in sagacity
Bestowed by our Creator
May Guruji’s legacy continue inspiring us humans
Generations after generations.

 

GURU is a Sanskrit word meaning teacher or master or a preacher. One who is knower of religious gyan or the one who transmits wisdom to the disciples. Guru has two syllables: GU means shadows & RU who disperses. Taken together GURU is the one who removes darkness (shadow) by the light of knowledge. The Spiritual Guru or self realized master,  who is powerhouse of spiritual knowledge and enlighten the people in general and make their lives sublime, meaningful besides connecting us to our Creator. In other words,the Guru is a saintly person who enlightens the disciples with knowledge absolute and changes our lives with the enlightenment.

 

In Sikhism, GURU is the source of knowledge – the Temporal Lord. Sikh Gurus are very important for the Sikh religion. Here there is a strong relationship between Shishya (disciple) or student and master. The central belief of Sikhism is ONE GOD besides TEN GURUS which have been given in GURU GRANTH SAHIB (Sikh Holy Book) .

The following are the Ten Gurus of Sikhs:-

1. Guru Nanak Devji (1469-1539).
2. Guru Angadji (1504-52).
3. Guru Amardasji (1552-74).
4. Guru Ramdasji ( 1574-81).
5. Guru Arjan Devji (1581-1606).
6. Guru Har Gobindji (1606-45)
7. Guru Har Raiji (1630-61).
8. Guru Har Krishanji (1661-64).
9. Guru Teg Bahadurji (1675-1708).
10. Guru Gobind Singhji (1675-1708).

 

Guru Har Krishan Ji was born on 23 July 1656 at Kiratpur Sahib. He was the second son of Guru Har Rai and mother Krishan Rai. The name of the first son being Ram Rai who was disinherited due to his anti-Guru Ghar activities. He was the Eighth Guru of ten Gurus of Sikhism. He was made eighth Sikh Guru on 20th October 1664 by his father Guru Har Raiji before his death. Harkrishan ji following the principles dear to his father Guru Har Raiji.

Pandit Lal Chand challenged Guruji for Gita’s philosophy. With Guruji’s blessings an illiterate person named Chhaju Ram expounded the philosophy of G ita with ease. Due to this miracle, Pandit Lal Chand got influenced and became a true sikh.

Guru Harkrishan was of tender age of only FIVE years when he attained Guruship which is obviously an achievement in spirituality which very few attained taking into consideration the human history.
The decision of Guru Har Rai made his elder son infuriated so much so that he complained to Emperior Aurangzeb about this decision. A message was consequently conveyed to the young Guru to meet him. In the first instant, Guruji was reluctant to meet the emperor but finally decided to meet him at Delhi. Emperor wanted to test the acumen and wisdom of Guruji. He had two large trays; in one some precious ornaments, clothes and toys were kept and in other holy man’s cloak and other things were kept. These two trays were presented to Guru Harkrishan for choosing one of these. He chose the latter thus proving his holiness.

While Guru Harkrishanji was staying at Delhi, (a Gurdwara named Bangla Sahib was built where he stayed serving common masses without bias) at that time there spread an epidemic of smallpox and cholera consequent to which there were many deaths. Guruji attended these epidemic stricken people thus exposing himself to these dreaded diseases. In this way, he served the mankind without any discrimination of caste and creed and without caring for his own life – that is rarest of rare selfless service found in the annals of history.

Guru Har Rai ji passed away on 20th October 1661 thereupon despondency engulfed amongst the disciples. But Guru Harkrishan consoled his disciples and advised them to abide by the wishes of the Almighty God. He also told his disciples to sigh the praises of God and not to weep or feel despair.
Guru Harkrishan exhorted his disciples to keep have virtue of patience. He had an extraordinary ability to explain from the passages of Granth Sahib. In this way, Guru Harkrishan kept the legacy of Gurus intact. So much so he was immersed in humanitarian task that he himself was seized with high fever which turned into an attack of smallpox which resulted him to be confined to bed for many days.

 

While serving the suffering people from the epidemic day and night,  suddenly one day Guru Har Krishan, due to incessant assistance of the people suffering from epidemics of smallpox and cholera, he was taken ill with a fever. The fever turned out to be the beginning of an attack of smallpox symptoms, due to which he was perforce confined to bed for several days. The Guru’s tender body was deteriorated by the disease and thereafter Akalpurakh called him for fulfilling some other mission.

 

 

 

 

 

HAPPY VALMIKI JAYANTI – A GREAT SAGE WHO PENNED DOWN THE GREAT EPIC RAMAYANA

A TRIBUTE TO RISHI VALMIKI WHO CHANGED FROM NOTHING TO EVERYTHING

LESSONS FROM THE LIFE OF SAGE VALMIKI JAYANTI (BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF A GREAT RISHI WHO PENNED DOWN THE GREAT EPIC RAMAYANA

LESSON: Larger-than-life lesson from SAGE VALMIKI: We can change provided we have will to change.

Sage Valmiki – a great Sage/Rishi, who changed himself from a robber and a hunter of animals to a Maharishi of repute. This example should serve as a huge lesson for us all that if we resolve to give up the path of indulgence in bad Karmic deeds and adopt a path which leads to level-headedness and wisdom, we certainly can without doubt. It also gives us a lesson that humans have an inner potential to change our bad Karma, if we are determined to do so – impediments and other constraints notwithstanding.

LIFE HISTORY OF SAGE VALMIKI (MEANING ANT HILL)

Sage Valmiki lived in Treta Yuga. During that time, there were forests on the banks of Ganges and were infested with wild animals. His original name Ratnakara and  was the son of a sage named Prachatasa who had his hermitage on the banks of river. Ganga.

CHILDHOOD STAGE

In his childhood, he used to wonder in the forest. Unfortunately, one day he lost his way. Despite his best efforts, he could not locate the hermitage of his father. At nightfall, he started weeping for fear of his life since he knew that the forest was full of wild animals.

MEETING A STRANGER

A GREAT SAGE WHO PENNED DOWN THE EPIC RAMAYANA

As ill-luck would have it, a hunter passed that way. This hunter eked out his living by hunting the animals He also made search for the hermitage so that the child could be sent to his parents but in vain. . He pacified the child and took him to his home. As he was having any child, he adopted Ratnakara. It has been said, ‘time’ is a great healer, the child too forgot his parents and considered the foster parents as his own.

LEARNING THE HUNTING OF ANIMALS FOR LIVELIHOOD

In his adopted home, he learned hunting from his foster father. He killed birds and animals for a living. When Ratnakra grew up, his foster father married him off to a beautiful girl. Thereafter, he had his own children to look after. As time went on, his foster parents grew old. Now he had a huge responsibility towards his parents, wife and children. For their sustenance, he was constrained to rob the villagers who traveled to other villages for meeting their daily needs. After sometime, he even started killing the victims who resisted his attempts to rob.

CHANCE MEETING  WITH SAGE NARDA THEREAFTER CHANGE OF LIFE OF RATNAKARA

One day, a strange thing happened. A sage named Narda passed through that path. Ratnakara, as usual, stopped him and ordered him to hand over everything he had. Sage Narda, very coolly and with serenity at his command told him that he had only one Veena and his tattered clothes. He can part with those things. Seeing the composure of Sage Narda Ratnakara was surprised. His mind melted. There was no problem at all. Sage Narda is known for his travels from heaven to earth and acted as a trouble-shooter in many cases which require Divine intervention.

In the meanwhile, Sage Narda, sung a sweet song in the praise of Almighty God. Ratnakara was obviously moved by the grace and poise of the Sage.

Then Sage posed a question to Ratnakara. You earn a living by robbing people and hunting the animals and birds. Stealing and killing animals and birds is a sin.

This way, you commit sin – meaning you are a sinner. Will your parents, your wife and the children partake this sin with you? Saged asked the robber and hunter to pose this question to all your family members.

Subsequently, Ratnakara went to his home. He first of all, went to his foster parents, posed them the question; whether they will partake the sin of robbing and even killing his victims. They retorted that being their son, it was his responsibility to look after them in their old-age. Therefore, they will not share the sin which he committed. He will himself suffer the pangs of his Karmic Deeds.

Then he went to his wife. She too said that as a husband, it was his duty to feed her and his children, she will partake the booty which he brought but not partake the sins which he committed. Ratnakara was obviously moved by the turn of events. He was surprised that everybody wanted his booty but nobody wanted to partake his sin.

He remembered the Sage’s words and rushed for the forest to the place he had fastened him with the tree lest he escapes. He fell into the feet of the Sage and begged for his assistance in his salvation as he was a sinner. Meaning, there was a complete change in him. He, very respectfully, asked the Sage for his mercy and asked for his deliverance. The sage took mercy on him and advised him to chant RAM NAAM and went away. Ratnakara sat under the tree and started chanting the name of RAMA with complete belief and focus. There were change of climates, sunny days changed to dark nights and vice versa etc. but Ratnakara’s penance remained unaffected by these natural changes – withstood everything that came his way.

Then after some period of time, an ANT HILL was made around his body.  One day, Sage Narda passed that path and saw the Ant Hill formed. He was knowing the exact cause. He very carefully cleared the anthill and chanted RAM NAAM near the ears of Ratnakara. Hearing this, he opened his eyes and saw the Sage. The Sage re-named from Ratnakara to Valmiki (meaning Anthill). Thus the saga of Maharishi Valmiki starts.

Rest all is known to us that he penned down the great Epic Ramyana before it actually transpired – from the birth of Lord Rama to his exile to his journey to Demon King Ravana to bring back Sita Maa from Lanka, his battle with demon king along with Sugriv and Lord Hanuman besides his monkey warriors.

Subsequently, after the exile of Lord Rama, Sita Maa’s event of proving her chastity by walking on the fire to her exile to the forests after Lord Rama heard a washerman’s terse and offending comments that he cannot forgive the faults of his wife (infidelity) as done by Lord Rama.  She remained in the hermitage of Rishi Valmiki. Sita Maa gave birth to two sons Luva and Kusha. These two princes were brought up under the care of the Rishi. They were experts in the archery and other arts including all the mannerism which the princes should imbibe. 

Subsequently, there was meeting (Milap) between Lord Rama, Sita Maa and his two sons Luva and Kusha. He wanted that Sita should accompany him to his palace. But Sita Maa wanted liberation from this world.

As she was born from the Mother Earth, she very reverentially asked Mother Earth to open her bosom and in that she got absorbed. Then afterwards, Luva and Kusha ruled their respective kingdoms. As they were brought up in very congenial atmosphere, and they were the sons of Lord Rama and Sita Maa, they too proved to be the best kings to their subject  on the principles – RAGUKUL REET SADHA CHALI AAEE PRAN JAYE PAR BACHAN NO JAYE. (It is the tradition of the Ragukul to be exterminated rather than reneging  from the promise which Is made.

The life of Sage Valmiki, to say the least, offers us the lessons of immense significance. These are given in the following paragraphs.

WITH FIRM RESOLVE ANYBODY CAN CHANGE FROM NEGATIVE ATTITUDE  TO POSITIVE ONE

Circumstances may be of any kind, if we determine to change our attitude, we can do so. Even the hardened criminal could be refined if that particular individual wants to be refined. Nothing can come in our path then if we have conviction to do so.

NOBODY CAN ESCAPE THE PANGS OF BAD KARMIC DEEDS

We have to suffer the pangs of our bad Karmic deeds or misdeeds. Nobody will share that suffering when Judgment Day comes – not even our very closest kith and kin. It is, therefore, in our own interest to change our attitude and lead a life which becomes an example for others to follow. Maharishi Valmiki personifies this example.

 FOLLOWING THE VOICE OF OUR HEART AND REASON

We should hear the voice of reason as Ratnakra listened to Sage Narda and changed himself. But one thing stands out, the change we want comes by abandonment of many comforts of which we are habituated – in the lifestyle and the habits and attitude we have imbibed over a period of time.

For a man who wants to have change, nothing can stop that individual to have change for the better but again for becoming good, we are constrained to surpass some obstructions since the sins we have already committed will not wash away sins we have committed so easily. For these to be washed, we have to cleanse our body, mind and the soul. It requires huge effort.

 LISTENING AND ACTING OUR INNER VOICE

We should always listen to our inner voice as Ratnakara had listened and learned lesson after meeting Sage Narda. Otherwise, he would not have the fortune of gaining knowledge from the great Epic Ramayana and getting enlightenment.

 GREAT PHILOSOPHERS & THINKERS MOTIVATE US TO FOLLOW ETHICAL PATH

Great works of Rishis, Sages, Sants, Sadh Gurus, Great Masters (Like Sant Kirpal Singh and other renowned personages who helped in enlightening the lives of multitudes) are great motivators and bestow us the opportunity of removing our ignorance and show us the path of enlightenment and liberation (Moksha).

 ENLIGHTENMENT FROM THE WORKS OF OUR SAINTS

All the great works of Rishis give us enlightenment.. There is no credence or relevance  to which Religions, castes, creeds, colour etc they belonged. What they preached us through their works should be of relevance to us.

The words of Sant Kabir are enlightening irrespective of religion or caste to which we belong.

It is needless to ask of a Sant the caste to which he belongs
For the priest, the warrior. the tradesman, and all the thirty-six castes, alike are seeking for God.
It is but folly to ask what the caste of a saint may be;
The barber has sought God, the washerwoman, and the carpenter.

I am not a Hindu,
Nor a Muslim am I!
I am this body, a play
Of five elements; a drama
Of the spirit dancing
With joy and sorrow.

NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR A DETERMINED PERSON

Everything is possible, if we have strong determination to refine ourselves and follow a course which is spiritually oriented and we can be remembered for our deeds if we resolve.

 CLEANSING OUR INNER DROSS

Fact remains, if we want to change from Ratnakara to Sage Valmiki, we have to wash off the dross that is existing in our system and having done that the path ahead is clear for us FOR SELF REALIZATION.

SELF-REALIZED PERSON HAS CONNECTIVITY WITH GOD

A self-realized person can be a great inspiration and a source of motivation for other humans whose past life has been dismal failure – meaning what we do today counts and if you want to bring forth refinement in our character and attitude it will go a long way in shaping our destiny. All this enlightenment and refinement is garnered from a Single Source.

 Then the lessons from his great epic Ramyana are:-

 LUST FOR ANYTHING IS HARMFUL FOR US HUMANS

 We should not commit the sin of looking at others’ wives with lust or commit any sin of abduction which may tarnish our image and we should be earning KARMIC DEBIT for this for which we have to suffer.

PROMISES SHOULD ALWAYS BE KEPT

We should always fulfil the promise we have made to others and not renege on the same. Lord Rama stood for Dharma and Karma as the two pillars of strength of a person.

IN THE EYES OF GOD EVERYBODY IS EQUAL

Ram Rajya stood for equality for everybody – all the subjects in Ram Rajya were treated equally. He did not spare even his spouse and sent her to the forest when he heard an ordinary washer man uttering something against Sita Maa.

Conclusively, there is a great lesson for us all to follow from the life of Rishi Valmiki. If we determine to refine ourselves we can do so. But for this to happen, we have to cleanse  all the vile and bad traits we have imbibe willingly or unwillingly. It is a bit difficult but not impossible indeed. RISHI VALMIKI changed himself from a dacoit and an ill-reputed individual to a Rishi who penned down EPIIC RAMAYANA, containing all the life of Lord Rama and his good deeds in removing evil from the society in the form of Demon King Ravana.  

HAPPY VIJAYADASHMI : VICTORY OF GOOD OVER EVIL

LORD RAMA PRAYS LORD SHIVA FOR GETTING HIS BLESSINGS

VIJAYADASHAMI – THE VICTORY OF GOOD OVER EVIL

The Epic Ramayana showcases that good and evil subsist
And thrives side by side
If good exists so is the evil
It is an individualistic desire to follow good path
Or follow a path full of negative thoughts and action
But one thing is certain without any suspicion
That each one of us is constrained to suffer the pangs of his/her karma
Of his own creation
Follow goodness,
Your reward is good
Follow evil and evil doer
Our life would be dreadful
We ought to keep in mind
The ultimate decision rests on us
Whether to follow good or not so good path
We have to face the music of our own creation though.

There are people who are more prone to wickedness
Owing to their line of thinking or due to their personal choice
Or due to race or origin where they follow violence as a cult
Ravana from demonical origin
Was knowledgeable and a staunch Bhakta of Lord Shiva
Yet did despicable karmic deeds of lowest worth
By abducting Sita Maa the consort of Lord Rama
Sullied and devalued his wisdom to the lowest ebb
And, we all are aware the result of his action ultimately.
Then evil orientation is not the male domain only
Even females too are known to have committed such acts so lowly
It was the jealousy of females that Lord Rama was exiled for 14 years
Then King Ravana’s sister Shroopnaka too was wicked to the core
Due to her only there was battle between Lord Rama & Ravana
In which Ravana met his end along with his entire family
Then Lord Rama did not want to kill Tataka
Who used to kill and spoil the Yajnas of the Sadhus
Rama did not want to kill Tataka since he did not want to kill a woman
But Sage Viswamitra persuaded Lord Rama
Saying that a woman of demonic tendencies
Loses all the fair considerations of a woman
Since she is involved in evil deeds.

When Demon king Ravana was killed by Lord Rama
Sita Maa was released from the captivity of Ravana
But in order to prove her chastity
She had to undergo fire test of purity
She proved that her purity was above any shred of doubt.

The most sacred of all festivals
Devout celebrate this day as a victory of goodness over evil
And take lessons so exemplary
That evil cannot have always its sway
Meaning, end of wickedness will come about
Indeed without a shred of doubt
However, powerful may be the perpetrator – an evil doer
Thus become a shining example for us all to follow at any rate
Even in situations seemingly desperate.
Lord Shri Ram, the embodiment of righteousness
With most adorable traits with immense prowess
A reservoir of humility with simplicity in abundance
Tolerance, harmony and elderly reverence
That an offspring should profusely be possessing
For the parents most adoring.

Lord Rama left for exile, leaving everything in Ayodhya
When his father Shri Dashratha
Is constrained to act on the promises made in the past
To his wife Kakai – the mother of Shri Bharata
And step-mother of Lord Shri Rama
Who had saved Shri Dashratha’s life once
By endangering her own life in the midst of forest
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
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 so hard in the forest
Subsisting on the fruits and herbs that existed there
Truly speaking, that is the crux of a lesson for today’s younger generation.
Maa Sitaji the consort of Shri Rama
With brother Lakshmana too accompanied Shri Rama.

The demon king Ravana
King of Sri Lanka
With intent so evil
And with utter deception, abducted Sita Maa
The loving consort of Shri Rama
Kept her in his garden called Ashok Vatika
Then exhorting Sitaji to marry him
Sita Mata, being a wife so ideal of an ideal husband – Shri Rama
Sita Maa spurned his proposal with a contempt it deserved above all
Ravana, despite his knowledge of Vedas and Shashtras
And one of the fondest Bhaktas of Lord Shiva
Ruined his name and fame earned through penance so hard
Along with the knowledge he had attained over a period of time
With his acts so highly depraved
An immorality of highest order – by any imaginable yardsticks
A battle between the two armies ensued
Due to which Ravana lost his everything dear to him
His nears and dears and his forces perished unsung
Including his brother mighty Kumbkarna and dear son Methnada
And finally himself – the so called invincible Ravana!
By the sharp arrows of Lord Rama
There is eternal lesson for all of us from this epic Ramyana
Evil and the evil doers meet their doom in the end
Burn it out the evil intention we nurture inside us for others
Like the burning of effigies of the three
Who had mixed into the elements ultimately
We should always keep in mind the lesson
That nothing remains but only the truth prevails at the end
The sooner it is done the better for us humans.

As we burn the effigies of Ravana
Along with Kumbkarna and Meghnada
Showcasing that evil meets its end.

Vijaydashmi should establish a kingdom of love for all
Overflowing with peace and prosperity with fellow feeling in abundance
Profuse the goodwill and tolerance
A kingdom of love for everybody, leaving none
For it is a celebration for destruction of evil in all its forms
And a win for TRUTH an ultimate ONE
O Omnipotent One, do realize our prayer O Omniscient One.

LORD RAMA, LAKSHMANA ANND MAA SITA

Vijayadashami or Dushehra is one of the well-known Hindu festivals and is celebrated at the end of Navratri. It is an annual festival– on the 10th day of the Hindu month of Ashvin which falls in the month of September – October. Vijayadashami personifies victory of goodness or righteousness over evil or wickedness. Vijay means victory and dashmi means falling on the tenth day.

It is significant to note that Dushara is derived from two syllables: Dus means evil or bad and hara means to destroy or to remove or to annihilate – by combination, we deduce Dushara as a day which we observe as a sign of annihilation of evil from amongst us. There is, in fact, a lesson for us all og us– the forces representing evil will meet their end ultimately now or after sometimes afterwards is the potent question.

REASONS FOR ITS CELEBRATION IN THE EASTERN AND NORTHERN STATES OF INDIA

Marks the end of Durga Puja wherein the devout remember Goddess Durga’s win and ultimately his death of Demon king Maheshasur thereby restoring the law of Dharma. Maheshasura wanted to establish the rule of demons; for this, he killed many sages/sadhus and even defiled their Yajna fires besides killing general masses for establishing his rule.

• It also marks the end of Navratri, represented by Nine Devis with different traits.

RAMLILA -PLAYED BY DEVOTEES DEPICTING THE LIFE OF LORD RAMA

In many parts of India Ramlila is enacted wherein different artists play various roles (Lord Rama, Lakshman, Bharat, Shatrugun, Sita Maa, Demon King Ravana, brother Kumbhkarna and Babishna, son Meghnadh etc) from beginning i.e. births of Rama and his brothers, Sita Devi is described as the daughter of Prithvi (the Earth) because she was found in a pot by Mithla King Janaka while ploughing the fields. She was brought up by the king. Janaka. All the situations are enacted as though it was happening in real life till, of course, on a ninth day on the death of demon king Ravana who is symbolized as the personification of evil. On the tenth day, the effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhkarna and son Meghnadh are burnt to showcase to the masses at large that the evil, however, powerful ends ultimately.

WORSHIP OF MOTHER DIVINE

People also take out processions, carrying the statues of Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesha etc accompanied with the chants of songs and dances and immersed in the water. After immersion of statues, the devotees pray to Maa Durga for blessing them with her bounties for the entire year.

PEOPLE START PREPARATION FOR DIWALI

After Dusheshra people start preparation for DIWALI – another festival in connection with reception of Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana by the Ajodhya gentry. They illuminated their homes and street for welcoming their beloved Lord Rama.

SIGN OF RESPECT FOR LORD RAMA IN VARIOUS PARTS OF INDIA

In Northern India, Dashara (ten days) is celebrated to pay respects to Lord Rama. The plays based on the life of Lord Rama and his humble and benevolent rule too Is also depicted in the form of plays and dramas with light and sound accompanied by music and dance. Finally, the effigies of Ravana, Kumbkarna, and Meghnatha are burnt for depicting the end of evil and supremacy of the goodness. In Kullu Valley, there is a big fair and people come to witness this fair with gaiety and enthusiasm to enjoy it.

In South India (Karnataka) also Dashehra is celebrated with the worship of Durga Maa. In the south, the festival is dedicated to Lordess of Knowledge Saraswati and worship the books and musical instruments. Children are initiated to studies, it is considered auspicious to start new business ventures and new houses, cars and other properties are purchased.

In western regions (In Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Gujarat), people install their deities and immerse the same on Vijaydashmi. Lord Rama and Goddess Durga are worshipped. The famous dandia dance known as Garba in traditional dresses is one of the wonderful attractions in Gujarat.

In eastern regions, the Durga Maa statues are immersed in rivers. Vijayadashami has special significance in West Bengal. Besides worshipping Maa Durga they have singing and dance competitions besides competitions on other literary features.

It is, therefore, in the fitness of things to say that all of us should follow the path of sanity, a righteous path so that we may also transform others and make them virtuous on whom no evil can cast a spell. It is my sincere prayer to Maa Dhurga Ji & Lord Rama to  shower us with their blessings and graces.

LESSONS OF VIJAYADASHMI

• We should be obedient to our parents and the older members of our society.
• We should have simple living and high thinking.
• Truth wins at the end.
• Evil doers always get the consequence of their acts.
• We get what we give others. In other words, what we sow, we reap.

TODAY IS THE WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY : I WISH SOUND HEALTH FOR ALL

TODAY IS THE WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY

MENTAL HEALTH

OUR BODY IS MADE UP OF FIVE ELEMENTS : AIR, WATER, FIRE, ETHER & EARTH

When we are bodily glowing
When all our body organs are fully functioning
When any challenge is taken head on
When we consider the body as a carrier of soul too
When we know that our soul dies not with the death of body.

When we know that our mind is important for our body
When we know that our mind is to be trained to work as per our commands
When we know that our body and mind should work in sync
When we know that when our body functions well then our mind too functions well
When we know how best to keep our body and mind in sound health
When we know our body immune system depends on the diet we ingest
When we know that five elements are necessary for body & mind
When we know that mental health depends on our environs in which we live
When we know that when the Graces of our Lord are in full measure there cannot be any mental health issues.

TODAY IS THE WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY

Mental health has been defined by World Health Organization as: A state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.

Mental health thus is a state of wellness by which an individual concerned realizes his/her own capacities, can adjusts with the normal stresses of life, can function productively thus be able to make a contribution not only for himself/herself himself but also for his/her community of which he/she is a part. In other words, when a person performs all his/her physical and mental functions with alacrity in that case we consider such a person with appropriate MENTAL HEALTH.

Body and mind are the two essential parts of our SELF. When both are in sync, we have a maximum wellness in life. That is, while we are physically sound, mentally agile, our thoughts and acts are sublime and purposeful. And with it all, when God’s graces are accompanied, then, there cannot be any mental illness issues.

IN BHAGWAD GITA, IT HAS BEEN SAID CLEARLY

Human body is the chariot. Individual self is the owner of the chariot. Intelligence (Buddhi) is the charioteer. Mind is the reins. The five senses are the horses. World experienced by the senses are the tracks on which the horses tread. The Individual self associated with the senses and the mind is the enjoyer.

OUR BODY IS A MIX OF FIVE ELEMENTS

The mixing of all the five elements (Air, earth, water, fire and ether) and is termed as quantification (Panchikaranam). The elements divide themselves into two parts each – one part retains its natural state and the other half divides itself into four parts. Each of the elements in right proportion help sustain our body. This way, each one assists the other elements in ensuring complete body functions. Our body is sustained by the actions (Karma) we perform. When actions just stop then the body too cease to exist – it dissolves into the elements from which it was created on birth. When our actions (Karmic deeds) are divine the body is also divine. Contrarily, when our actions are based on selfishness and greed we are termed as demonic in nature.

This goes to show that our body is a carrier of all the organs and all the organs should work in sync. If our body organs do not work properly, then our mind too is not in our control thereby we get mentally sick.

INDIVIDUALISTIC IN NATURE

It includes mental and physical wellness, self capacity to concentrate on the job at hand, freedom to think and act without any outer influences, feel free to take somebody else’s assistance if and when necessary. Mental health and wellness are in fact individualistic in nature since when we inculcate capacities to face the realities of situation with positive outreach, we tend to win half the battle of our existence.

RESULTS OF MENTAL ILLNESS

Sleep problem, anger, adjustment problem in other environs, lack of energy in getting something done, lack of concentration in getting things done, negative tendencies, suicidal tendencies, etc. bring about mental illness issues. These could be caused due to persistent onslaughts of negative sentiments or emotions issues befalling us. Or when some tragedy happens which we least expects happens in our lives. Due to Coronavirus pandemic, many have lose their near relatives, the concerned ones are prone to mental illness issues.

SELF REALIZATION & KEEPING BALANCE

First of all, self awareness or self realization is a must for keeping us balanced state of mind. This balance could be realized if we become self realized. Here knowing our potentials and weaknesses is a must. Cushioning our potentials, we can start bridging the gaps between the potentials and weaker areas. These weak areas when eliminated from our system can help us streamline our thoughts and action thereof.

BODY NEEDS & MENTAL ILLNESS

The present situation of Coronavirus pandemic has proved that those people whose body is immune to infections/germs from outside, can weather all storms. Although they could be affected by the virus but their immune system can cope with them and get rid of the dangerous infection with no or less effect on the physical health and thereby inculcate systematic wellness.

EMOTIONAL UPLIFTMENT

It is a fact that when we develop the traits of social and emotional adjustment, we can take care of most of the issues which impact our mental wellness. These could be through self realization or self aware, self management, environmental management, traits of adaptation in our social and home environment. In fact all these can be handled well when we develop a balance along with developing and inculcating mindset which brings about a healthy balance between our body and mind.

MENTAL BALANCE IS OF HUGE SIGNIFICANCE

We are mentally fit when we maintain our emotional wellness through interpersonal relationships through our activities having positive orientation such as following a spiritual oriented way of livng along with meditation as a regular habit, conducting Yogic exercises and breathing exercises for calming ourselves, etx. All combined together could help generate a balanced state of mind. And thus gain substance of the dictum: Sound mind lives in sound body. Mental health cannot be ensured when our body is not functioning properly.

When we are mentally disturbed then it contains the feeling of anxiety disorder like stress disorders, panic disorder when faced with a challenging situation, our inability to face challenges in day to day lives, etc.

FACTORS INFLUENCING OUR MENTAL HEALTH

There are some factors which are in essence responsible for mental health. These include environment in which we are living, the upbringing we are living in our homes, the financial stringency we face in day to day living and sometimes the company we keep which shape our attitude and behaviour patterns. Then the health issues due to nonavailability of proper medical attention which needed urgently. Drug abuse by the youth is also an issue for mental illness. Above all, when people in our household are not able to understand our emotions and are not able to address them properly. These may graduate to suicide tendencies. That is, all the negative tendencies take us to mental illness of different dimension when not attended and treated properly.

CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC HAS INCREASED THE INCIDENTS OF MENTAL ILLNESS ISSUES

The COVID 19 PANDEMIC situation has also created mental issues too. For example, when breadwinner of a family dies or losing business or losing a job due to financial crunch due to Covid, it leaves the entire family shattered. It may be a catalyst to put the entire family under the spell of mental illness for fear of uncertain future. Besides creating stress, depression thus mental illness issues, and in the depth of depression, it may entail to suicide.

MENTAL ILLNESS ISSUES

We can imagine the mental state of children and women folks while Sword of Damocles is hanging on their heads of the Talibans in Afghansthan and other areas where extremists are having their sway. Even the menfolks are having physical and mental anxieties about the wellness their own and their offspiring. Some solution for this have to be devised by the world at large otherwise their current state may deteriorate to human tragedy of extremely large proportion.

PHYSICAL WELLNESS OR OTHERWISE

When we are physically agile, we can live in any environs we are put in. For this we should have good food to eat, clean water to drink, clean air to breath in, congential environs at home with adequate facilities and friendly neighbourhood for care and share. These aspects will take care of our physical and emotional needs.

LOVE AND AFFECTION FOR EMOTIONAL STABILITY

When we get adequate doses of love from our parents, teachers and well wishers then we feel emotionally balanced. We should, therefore, divide love so that we get the same in return too.

SELF ESTEEM AND MENTAL ILLNESS

It has been observed that when a person is subjected to insults and he/she losses his self esteem, he/she falls a prey to anxieties resulting in mental illness with all the accompanying diseases since with it the concerned person loses his/her will to live. This, in fact is disastrous and the mental state becomes all the more dangerous when one in irrationally downgraded and degraded.

Some suggestions to alleviate mental health issues:

• Appropriate healthy environs should be created so that all live in congenital atmosphere.

• Proper diet should be so that our body is healthy and remains immune to germs and viruses. More so, those who do not have any means to earn their livelihood should be given ration and other food items,

• Proper periodical check up should be done so that the people with mental health issues are identified and proper psychological and physiological treatment given for remedy of prevailing illness.

• The parents should give proper value system to their offsprings and keep a eye on their daily activities lest they fall prey to bad company and subsequently have addiction of drugs or drinking or even smoking.

• The WHO (World Health Organization) should ensure that the pockets globally which are adversely affected by terrorism should be taken care of and proper medical attention given so that the hapless people living there, their mental illness may not reach to gigantic stage.

• We should keep in mind, when nothing works, God’s intervention works wonders. It could be ensured through proper meditation and prayers; leading spirirutal orientation in our life makes huge difference.

• When we cultivate emotional wellness then we can adjust in any environment thus cannot fall prey to any sort of mental illness. This could be through individual and social adjustment cultivated on the principle of give and take.

• We should divide love and affection to those who need the most for their wellness. Distribution of laughter is synonymous with distribution and spread of wellness around.

• It has been observed that mental illness is more pronounced than the terminal diseases like cancer, heart disease etc. therefore care and caution has to be exercised so that people with mental illness are identified in the early stages of their ailment and physical and psychological methods given.

• Proper activity therapy, music therapy and activity therapies should be given for amelioration of mental illness.

HAPPY NAVRATRI TO ALL – MAY THESE NINE DAYS WONDER TRANSFORM OUR LIFE

JAI MATA JI – MAY HER BLESSINGS REMAIN ON ALL OF US

HAPPY NAVRATRI TO ALL – MAY THESE NINE DAYS WONDER TRANSFORM OUR LIFE

Let these Nine Days wonder
Transforms us & be the wonderful game-changer
And help engender
Peace and prosperity
With sufficiency in Wellness for all and sundry
This is the most sincerest prayer to Thee
O My Mother Divine!
The most benevolent ONE.

Nav means lasting for days nine
Ratri stands for night
Navratri is the festival so very well-known
Wherein the devotees with so much devotion
Worship the Great Deity – the Devi Bhagwati – Mother Divine
Devotees of all hues celebrate Navratri
Which is celebrated twice in a calendar year
First, it is in the March – April, as Chaitra Navratri
Thence September – November as the Shradha Navratri
This time from 7th October 2021 onwards for days nine.

This festival has Durga Maa’s tie
The embodiment of power ‘Shakti’
Who eliminates the demons the hard-hearted ones
Demons who kill the hapless (Sadhus) hermits
Even while performing their sacred Yajunas- rituals
They defile the sacredness of Yajna fires
By throwing besmirching agents into the sacred fires
Like flesh and filth of all kinds.

Goddess Durga in her red attires
Mounted on the lion so ferocious
With all the weapons of destruction
In her possession
Hands out punishment to the devils so wicked and ruthless.

Legends about Navratri abounds
Demon king Maheshasura worshipped Lord Shiva for a long period
By which Lord Shiva granted him the boon
As Lord Shiva has the trait of getting pleased very soon
With the sincerest Bhakti of the Bhakta
With simplest items like vel patra etc
Shiva was constrained to grant Maheshasura a boon of invincibility
That nobody, not even Gods could defeat him or kill him
Thence thereafter he started killing innocents without fear of death
As he was having a boon of the Lord of all Lords.

Then this demon with his brutal prowess
Conquered the Seven World – Lokas
Including the renowned throne of Indra
The king of Heaven (Svarga) & Gods – Devas
Termed as the God of Heavens
Responsible for war, storms and rains.

Then there was discussion between the Trinity
Along with others Gods too in their company
To defeat and kill this demon turned killer and usurper
Created Maa Shakti with their combined effort
The Benevolent Mother for those who are kind to others
And killer to the brutes with a boundless powers
The Durga, the Warrior Goddess
They contributed differently in bestowing her with traits so rare.

The war between Maheshasur and Mother Divine
Which lasted for days Nine
On 9th day She killed Maheshsura the wicked one.

Navratri symbolizes the victory of good over evil
On day Ninth which is termed as Mahanavami
Nine young girls are worshipped by the devotees
These venerated young girls’ feet are washed with devotion
With fresh water and given clothes and food to eat.

The sacred earthen pot (Kalsh) full of water is established
Covered with mango leaves and a coconut
At the place where we offer our prayers/meditate.

On each of the nine days fasting is observed
Wherein devotees take fruits and milk products
To maintain purity of body and mind
Thus ensure purity of soul – which dies not.

These Nine Days personify the Nine Forms of Durga Goddesses
Navratri too is linked with fertility of land
On these days, the folks observe the fitness of the earth
By testing seed germination in the earthen pots
Devotees observe the fast for nine days with rigidity
Keeping oneself chaste in thought and action
During these days considered most holy
Which keep the mind and body full of purity.

There is another legend attached
King Daksha – the kind of Himalayan Kingdom
Was blessed with a daughter named Uma
A most beautiful one
With all the vital traits of a princess she possessed
She worshiped Lord Shiva most reverently
So that He may accept her in marriage so willingly
Having pleased Lord Shiva
She married Uma
But Alas! against the wishes of King Dhaksha.
One day King Dhaksha held a grant Yagna
With no invitation to Lord Shiva
Maa Uma wanted to join the Yagna
And all accompanying celebrations
While Lord Shiva had his own reservations
She came to attend the Yagna
Being attended by Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu
The Lords of Creation and Evolution
Besides all the deities were in the list of invitation
King Dhaksha did not like her daughter’s presence
She felt insulted by the treatment
Meted out to her in presence of all deities
In utter anger so severest.

She jumps into Agni Kund (Fire grate) and thus got perished
A plausible reason why we call her Sati too
Lord Mahadeva (As Virbadhara) punished
King Dhaksha for this injustice meted out.

ON REBIRTH (As Parvati)
She marries Lord Shiva again
She comes to her parents’ house to stay for NINE DAYS
That is why we celebrate these Nine Days – Navratri.

Legend also it that Lord Rama
Worshiped Goddess Durega’s Nine Forms
For Nine Days with deep reverence
On day 10th Lord Rama could kill demon king Ravana
This way, 10th day is celebrated as Vijaydashami.
First three days are dedicated to Goddess Durga
In the form of child, young girl and mature woman
Representing three forms of womanhood
Symbolizing victory of evil over falsehood
Next three are dedicated to Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity
Her name is Goddess Lakshimi
Last three days are commemorated in the name of Goddess Saraswati
The Goddess of knowledge and wisdom which we acquire thru Bhakti
She is in dress, white snowy
Mounted on a white swan
The Navratri is a sign of purity in all its manifestation
Let these Nine Days be observed with great admiration
For gaining blessings from Goddess Durga.

In essence, Navratri is one of the most sacred festivals that the devotees celebrate. It is not merely celebrated by observing some particular rituals but the we live a spiritually oriented life in all manifestations during these NINE DAYS NAVRATRI.

The purpose is to follow the way of life which puts more stress on the subjective experience of sacred dimension. We undertake those karmic deeds during Navratri which transform some of the debit-karmic-deeds to credit-karmic-deeds which helps us in our personal growth and development individually and also collectively who celebrate it with religious fervor and enthusiasm. Moral and ethical values when followed sincerely could be imbibed as permanent habits to be followed in future too thus Navratri could prove to be a life-changer for the devotees since it carries the blessings of our MOTHER DIVINE.

OBSERVATION OF FAST

A lighter refreshment consisting of milk made product, fruits, and nuts, keeps the body light and the digestive system gets improved thus there is a spread of fragrance of Satoguna and alleviation of Tamoguna and Rajoguna traits. The devotees observe strict fasts during the duration of Narratri. All these traits enhance the credibility of an individual devotee who observes the fasts and also offers sincere prayers during these days with utmost devotion. The fasts help us to purify our mind, provides lightness to our body provides us an opportunity to devotees for prayers to Goddess Durga Maa – an embodiment of SHAKTI or reservoir of energy.


FREEDOM FROM CONTAMINATED THOUGHTS AND ACTIONS

Freedom from contaminated thoughts purifies our mind. Thus observance of fast or vrat (also means resolve) continuously for nine days brings about the stability of our mind and helps in enhancement of our concentration. Besides these, we exercise maximum restraints in our thoughts and deeds and behave in a dignified manner by remaining within confines of decency. All these facilitate generation of the feeling of love and affection for others, enhances peace and tranquility, a feeling of compassion for others and above all a Godly feeling.

MENTION OF GODDESS DURA IN VEDIC AND PURANIC PERIODS

Mention of Goddess Durga has been found in Vedas and Puranas. Durg was a ferocious demon and Durga, the invincible warrior who killed Durg with her immense prowess. She is the warrior Goddess since she fought evil and forces which spread death and destruction. She works for demolishing demonic forces who want to establish their writ and establish the reign of terror and mayhem amongst the society besides spreading prosperity and goodwill in general masses. She defeats mythical buffalo demon – Meheshasura who had obtained a boon of invincibility from Lord Maheshwara. She is Goddess Parvati, also termed as Durga Saptashati – the consort of Lord Shiva. With her prowess, she proved herself to be unbeatable with limitless mystical powers.

SIGNIFICANCE OF EACH OF NINE DAYS

• First Day. On the first day, Mata Durga is termed as Shailputri – the daughter of Himalaya and the consort of Lord Shiva. This is the unmarried saroop of Gauri Maa.

• Second Day. Mata Durga on the second day is called as Brahmacharini which represents worship. She is the embodiment of huge reserve of power – Shakti.

• Third Day. On the third day, the Goddess is venerated as Chandraghanta. She is the embodiment of power and beauty..

• Fourth Day. On the fourth day, Maan Durga is worshipped in the form of Kushmanda – the creator of the whole universe by the power of her laughter.

• Fifth Day. Here on this day, Skandha – the main warrior of Gods’ army.

• Sixth Day. On the sixth day, Mataji takes the form of Katyayani with three eyes and four hands – all powerful and with immense grace.

• Seventh Day. On this day, Maan Durga takes the form of Kalratri – she is shown as black as dark night with four hands and makes the evil doers fearless.

• Eighth Day. On the eighth day, the Mata Durga takes the form of Maha Gauri – with beauty besides having calmness and exhibits immense wisdom.

• Ninth Day. On a ninth day, Maan Durga is worshipped as Siddidatri – with all the eight siddhis. In this form, she is worshiped by all.

LESSONS LEARNED FROM THE NAVRATRI FESTIVAL

Different festivals provide the devotees different lessons while the underlying message of all these festivals is to enlighten us humans to follow a path which helps us to have connectivity with Higher Self/Higher Intelligence, by following a spiritual oriented path through meditation, contemplation and prayers. The main purpose of celebration and observance of certain modes of behavior in such festivals is to keep ourselves chaste with our mind focused on God. The purpose is to focus on the special prayers and chants is to seek connectivity with God and dispel the thought of anxiety or disillusionment that pervades in our system. As there is purity of thoughts and actions during these festivals, there is every possibility for transformation and help in unfolding of spiritual life naturally.

WE CELEBRATE NAVRATRI IN ORDER TO GET BALANCED MINDSET

The main purpose of celebrating the religious festivals is to seek balance in our life at the altar of God while observing all immutable laws of nature and aspire for transformation and enlightenment – journeying from one festival to another one helps the devotees to learn social etiquettes, social adaptability and finally God’s connectivity.

SPIRIT OF CELEBRATION REMAINS BASICALLY THE SAME FOR ALL

Different states celebrate Navratri differently but the spirit of all the celebrations is similar in nature. For example, famous ‘garva dance’ is organized in the state of Gujarat and devotional songs and dance competitions are organized in West Bengal besides prayers in the specially erected and decorated pandals is a usual phone. People visit the famous temples of Vaishno Devi in Katra (in Jammu province) besides all the temples of Goddess Durga in its different forms/manifestations attract devotees in these nine days.

PURITY IN THOUGHTS AND ACTIONS IS BASIC

The main driving force of the Navratri is to purify our thoughts and deeds thereof. In these nine days devout observe strict fasts; remain chaste and desist from telling lies. Wish that people always behave like this all the days!

FIRST THREE DAYS ARE CELEBRATED FOR DURGA MATA

The first three days are celebrated on the name of Durga Mata – Goddess with immense power. For next three days she is worshipped as spiritual wealth – Mata Lakshmi.

MAIN THINGS TO BE KEPT IN MIND WHILE CELEBRATING NAVRATRI

• Strict observance of fasts keep our digestive system in order and helps maintain our body healthy.

• Fasts help in purifying our mind because we pray Goddess continuously for nine days/nights. It also enhances our focus on the subject we contemplate for completion.

• Purification of body and mind means spiritually directed conscious mind thus a shift from negativity to positivity.

• Congregations in melas and group processions help the people to people contacts thus animosity, if any, gets obliterated and a feeling of fellow feeling and cooperation sprouts. Contact with each other enhances our outreach in the society.

• Group dances and spiritual song competitions enhance competitive spirits in the youth and also help them direct their latent energies to productive use.

• Devotees, in their zeal to show earnest desire to have total connectivity with Goddess Durgaji, offer singular devotion to Her during these auspicious days, reap the harvest of getting their problems solved and get ETERNAL PEACE in their lives as a reward of this worship.

• Devotees meet the needs of the needy during these NINE DAYS. My pray to all is to see to it that they meet the needs of others on all days and earn the goodwill of DURGA MAA – who herself is the most benevolent.

Truthfully, we can have the graces of our Divine Mother so that our problems are mitigated. When we observe fast continuously for NINE DAYS, it positively impacts our body, mind and soul and having imbibed positive traits, we can make difference in life in whatever we transact in our life.

ASSERTIVENESS

ASSERTIVENESS

Assertiveness, when taken in positive sense, it is a trait which is cultivated with a lot of experiences – some good and some not so good. Good experiences we can be incorporated whereas bad ones we could be discarded, of course, with a caveat, our endeavour should be not to repeat the same mistake. 

ASSERTIVENESS WHEN TAKEN AS A POSITIVE TRAIT

Assertiveness could be described as self-assurance or self-confidence in taking on any challenge which may come in our life without any inkling. In such a scenario, assertiveness becomes a reality when we have experienced ups and downs of our lives and  have learned the art of keeping balanced in all situations and conditions enabling us to face any contingency with self-belief and indomitable belief in God.

ASSERTIVENESS UNDER THE GUISE OF COMPLACENCY WILL LEAD US ASTRAY

 It should also be borne in mind that complacency should not lead us astray and we become egoist – an exaggerated sense of importance.  For self-belief, balance in all situations is a must otherwise we shall be losing what we have gained for ourselves. Therefore, humility with self-assurance will go a long way in winning many a battles in our life. This way, we shall not only be winning many a friends but also create optimistic environs around us. Our experiences teach us immensely and keeping healthy balance under all conditions will deliver us from all eventualities. In Bhagwad Gita it has rightly been said: Quickly they become virtuous, and attain lasting peace. O son of Kunti, declare it boldly that no devotee of Mine is ever lost.

ASSERTIVENESS ASSOCIATED WITH RAJASVIC ATTRIBUTES

Kashtriyas were endowed with Rajasvic attributes, with hard-heartedness, but with a mix of Sattva Guna (Trait), they could make difference in their attitude and behavior. They were endowed with passion or zeal for creative things with a lot of motivation in excelling in valour with assertiveness. They not merely defended their subjects with Rajasvic traits but sprinkle of Sattvic Gunas. They could render assistance to the hapless subjects living within  his territory being the ruler. In other words, assertiveness or hardheartedness was Raja’s forte but along with this a good ruler is the one who shows compassion and soft-heartedness for his subjects when required. In Bible, it has been asserted: Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.

CROSSING  LIMIT TAKE US TO THE DOMAIN OF SATAN

Apparently, when we cross the limit of decency and exhibit brazenness in our attitude, by so doing, we are treading on the path of self-destruction. It should never be forgotten that destructive trait is exhibited when we always show hardheartedness where softness is needed. This way, we do not solve problems but create many for us. Behaving thus is behaving with utter self-centeredness, profuse with egocentric tendencies. We all are aware that a man with ego is neither here nor there since such a person is selfish to the core and lives to satisfy his own wishes.

A SELF-REALIZED PERSON EXHIBITS A BALANCED MINDSET

It has been seen that a person with self-realization shows assertiveness while facing truth. He stands by truth and remains committed to the truth, come what may. But assertiveness with modicum of diplomacy and tactfulness in handling any developing situation can make a huge difference in adjusting in any environs. The agility in handling emerging situation should not tag us as a person who shows softness outwardly but is very hard-hearted when dealing with matters where bigheartedness is woefully needed.

Conclusively, it could be said that assertive attitude with healthy dose of tact  and diplomacy could make a huge difference.

GANDHI JAYANTI : A GREAT VISIONARY & AN APOSTLE OF PEACE

GANDHIJI AS A GREAT VISIONARY & APOSTLE OF PEACE

GANDHI JAYANTI OF A GREAT VISIONARY AND APOSTLE OF PEACE

There are so many renowned rulers who ruled different nations- some with iron hand while some ruled their subjects with humane touch and considerations. But there were also a few personages who left indelible impression on the hearts and minds  of masses for good. Gandhiji was such a rare gift to the humanity. He  lives in the hearts and minds of our people because of his rarest of rare contributions with universal appeal.

Born on 2^nd October 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, he is variously known as Bapuji, the father of Indian nation. His full name is Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. After his university education, he went to London for further education as a Barrister and came back to India in 1891. In 1893, he accepted a job in a law firm in Durwan (South Africa).

In essence, Gandhiji’s message and teachings have universal appeal. His method of mass movement or mobilization of masses (Satyagraha) with non-violent means is well known Even UNGA (United National General Assembly), in its resolution on 15^th June 2007 adopted a resolution, declaring this day as the International Day of Non-Violence- a rightful and justifiable tribute to a great personality known for his simple living and high thinking.

His universal message of peace, non-violence influenced many renowned  world leaders such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Nelson Mandela, Dalai Lama, Barack Obama and many others.

Gandhiji’s non-violence philosophy, fasts, non-operation paid dividends in getting us freedom from the oppression of colonialism and imperialism. It strengthened the popular the roots of sovereignty of political and economic rights. Besides he is also called the father of human rights movement.  

RELEVANCE OF GANDHIJI’S MESSAGE OF NON-VIOLENCE

The message of non-violence, free from any coercion has special significance today than ever after the use of force and violence on the masses  in Afghanistan after Talibans took over the power in Kabul.  The human rights of women and minorities are being suppressed and there is prevalence of violence in all sphere of activities.  The world at large should realize so that human rights of all without any discrimination is respected protected where so ever rights of human beings are violated.

Gandhiji raised his voice against the racial prejudices, oppression, hate mongers based on religion and narrow political consideration along with human exploitation.  Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. opined: ‘Gandhi was inevitable. If humanity is to progress, Gandhi is inescapable. He lived, thought and acted, inspired by the vision of humanity evolving toward a world of peace and harmony. We may ignore him at our own risk.’ Thomas Merton described him as ‘a bridge between humanity and spirituality’.

On this day, an Inter-Faith Prayer is  held at Gandhi Smriti, Tees January Marg, New Delhi. Prayers and floral tributes will also be conducted for him at Raj Ghat where Gandhiji was cremated. In various colleges and schools various competitions in the form of debates on Gandhian Thoughts and painting competitions too are held. While I was studying in a village school, we used to take part in various functions including debates, painting, poetry recitation on the life and universal message of Bapuji etc.

DIFFERENT FIGHTS AROUND THE WORLD AND THE GANDHIAN THOUGHTS

The hall-mark of Gandhian philosophy centered around non-violence or non-use of force to settle boundary disputes. He was against the thought of settling issues by killing others or browbeating smaller countries and grab their land by transgression. The role of China, exhibiting impatience and creating problems for its neighbours by grabbing their lands by force is the case in point.  Then there are conflicts in other parts of the world which are proving that violence could prove counter-productive for the peace and prosperity of the world at large. All these are against the principles of Gandhi’s philosophy. In essence, with cooperation and consensus, we can solve our prevailing problems but with non-violence, we can create more differences and dissension around the world. It should be kept in mind that terrorism and extremism solve no problem. It will create more problem for the humanity at large.

COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND GANDHI JI’S PHILOSOPHY

Although the Covid-19 pandemic  situation has improved to some extent but there is still a need to vaccinate many people so as to create herd immunity.  The people who are unwilling for getting vaccinated should  do so for their own sake and for the sake of humanity. The best tribute for Gandhiji would be to remember his visionary thoughts and also pray for those who have lost their love ones due to Coronavirus infection besides rendering helping hand to those who has lost the only earning hand with this vicious infection. My thoughts also go to the doctors, para-medical staff and other workers who have lost their lives during their busy schedule while curing others infected by Coronavirus. Whatever help we can render to people who have lost their jobs or lost their loved ones should be provided needful assistance.

RENDERING ASSISTANCE TO THE POVERTY RIDDEN PEOPLE

Importantly, it would be the best tribute for the great visionary, a great thinker, and a leader who is known for his inclusive philosophy if we render needful assistance to the poor and downtrodden in the society. Gandhiji, during his lifetime,  fought for the rights of Dalits and down-trodden besides he was a man of masses who had a vision for all of them. Babu Gandhi thoughts and philosophy of life could guide us as to how best we can render help to the downtrodden and masses affected by the covid-19 pandemic.

WHY GANDIJI’S PHILOSOPHY DENDEARED HIM TO THE PEOPLE?

Bapuji  firmly believed that hatred should not be met with hatred, violence with violence, greed with greed, evil with evil. We should love even our enemies. His philosophy of ‘hate the sin but not the sinner’ should be followed by all. He was opposed to use of force, hatred and vindictiveness. He was a great innovative and a visionary, a great fighter for cause of poor and downtrodden. He believed that no tangible solutions could be brought about by the use of  force. On the other hand, through violence we complicate the problems, he asserted. That is why he was loved by all. He had a universal appeal.

GANDHIAN RELIGIOUS PHILOSOPHY

The world have only a few chosen few who have made their mark to change the destinies of general masses through their thoughts and actions. The Gandhian thoughts based on the universal love and tolerance, entirely on profound love and affection without any bias of caste, creed, colour, religion, region and any other parochial considerations.

GANDHIAN PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION

 It would be in the fitness of things to infer that distinctions based on race, caste, creed, colour, region etc have no place in Gandhian thoughts and philosophy. He admired and respected all the religions of the world. He did not like racism, fanaticism, intolerance, selfishness, etc. He propounded God consciousness, religious minded without any discrimination for other religions.

According to him, God  was kind, just and loving and always responded to prayers and love. Gandhiji was immensely influenced by  Bhagwad Gita and its preaching contained therein. For him, God was truth and love. His faith in God was not shaken. He thoroughly believed in principle of Karma and believed that we get reward for our good karmic deeds and punishment for the bad deeds.  He believed in the percept that man was responsible for his own destiny which could be shaped by an individual through his words and deeds. Essentially, humanity was the foundation or cornerstone of his philosophy.

UNIVERSAL LOVE AND BROTHERHOOD

Gandhian philosophy is based on the universal love and tolerance including reverence for all the religions. He disliked any distinction based on race, colour, nationality and sect. While following his own religious beliefs to the hilt, he respected all religions equally. His belief in the secularism was unparalleled. He considered humans of all hues the same and saw untouchbility as the sin as he thought that God has created man without any bias.

TEACHING OF SATYAGRAH (NON-USE OF FORCE)

He always preached the policy of non-use-of-force (Satyagrah, non-violence). He firmly believed that non-violence is not a weapon of weak but of the strong ones who would not tolerate any manifestation of evil or injustice and would reasonably suffer while fighting non-violently. He was of the opinion that man was a spiritual being and love and non-violence were the part of his life. He considered non-violence/non-use of force  (Satyagrah) as the loft weapon.  It is considered as a morally superior weapon but through its use, it could do wonders when used judiciously. Even Nehru agreed that this weapon could do wonderful service if used sensibly.

GANDHIJI WAS A REALIST ALONG WITH IDEALIST

Gandhiji was a great realist with idealistic mindset. His thoughts were always on the higher plane. He believed that Satyagrah was possible – the power of which he made heroes out of men of no consequence in real life. This  is the reason that we call him as a great reformer with vision.

 IDEA OF WORLD GOVERNMENT

Ganghiji was of the view that World Government could eliminate injustice and oppression prevalent in all the societies of the world. This type of Government could establish the rule of law among nations and prevent exploitation.

GANDHI BELIEVED IN SIMPLE LIVING AND HIGH THINKING

Gandhiji was in favour of simple and noble way of living and lauded the role of cottage and small scale industries, village and self-sufficiency, respect for manual labour and self-labour. He was not for materialism as a way of living but simple way of living through richness in thoughts.

HE WANTED THAT ALL SHOULD EARN HIS/HER EARNINGS WITH SELF RESPECT

He wanted everybody to be employed and assured of the basic conditions of good life. He viewed that everybody should get food, clothing and shelter as per his/her needs. He was not opposed to the use of machinery to serve man but this machinery should not enslave man to the machine. He loved and respected manual labour. He opined that everybody should be independent in the moral and spiritual sense of terms.

PLACE OF WOMEN IN GANDHIAN THOUGHTS

He never subscribed to the idea that women were in any way inferior to men or less intelligent or less in her wisdom in comparison with men folks. He opined that widows have as much right to marry again as the widowers. He was the proponent of education of girl-child. He was against child marriage. He did not like the use of intoxicants and drugs because these weaken humans.

GANDHIAN THOUGHT ON EDUCATION AND CASTE SYSTEM

Gandhiji’s views on education were also inspired by the consideration for forming a sound character based on simplicity and high thinking. He rejected the caste system based on birth as morally wrong. He was strongly against exploitation of the labour class but he was against strikes and unrest for getting their demands fulfilled.

GANDHIAN THOUGHTS ON VILLAGE LIFE

He was aware that 70 percent of the population lived in the villages. He advocated village autonomy, independent and self-governing through panchayati system (choosing their own Surpanchs and Panchs through voting and a loose federation of villages for the satisfaction of their daily needs. He opined that the general masses should be free and not slaves of a centralized authority.

We should consider Gandhi views on autonomous village, his advocacy of cottage industries, charkha and khaddi, his general opposition to mass production are worth emulation for raising the standard of the village life. He opined that we cannot ignore the villages for inclusive /holistic development of India.

The idea of Gandhian philosophy are given below:-

• Hate the sin and not the sinner.
• Simple living and high thinking were essential for us all.
• Non-use of force or violence to settle issue confronting us.
• All should profess their religious faiths without any outside influence.
•  
• Villages are the mainstay of India because more than 70% of people lived in villages only therefore we have to raise the standard of villagers through Panchayati Raj and giving autonomy to the villagers to form their own methodology of governance. For this, cottage and small scale industries are to be given fillip.
•  
• Satyagrah should be used whenever there is a need for its use. Indiscriminate use of Satyagrah could tangle the issues

• Gandhiji believed that man was responsible for his own destiny through his work ethics or Karmic deeds.
•  
• Gandhiji believed in Hindu religious philosophy without any discrimination to other religions. He respected all the great religions of the world.
•  
• In his scheme of things, women should be given a high pedestal as they are not less in any sphere. They should be given equal opportunity in education for their upliftment and growth and development.

• He was realist and idealistic in real sense of terms.
• He disliked any distinction based on race, colour, region, nationality and sect etc.
• He did not like racism, fanaticism, intolerance, selfishness, etc.
• He propounded God consciousness, religious mindedness without any discrimination for other religions.
• He believed in the philosophy of non-violence for getting things done.

• He thoroughly believed in principle of Karma and believed that we get reward for our good karmic deeds and punishment for the bad deeds.