OUR NEGATIVE EMOTIONS ARE THE RESULT OF OUR OWN MINDSET
Oftentimes, we turn into bundle of contradictions We feel ourselves wise till our wisdom is tested We’re civilized till our civilized behavior is tested We feel ourselves kind, till our kindness is tested We feel ourselves courageous till our courage is tested We feel ourselves polite till our politeness is tested We feel ourselves patient till our patience is tested We feel ourselves creative till our creative instinct gets tested. We feel ourselves contented till our contentment is tested .
We feel ourselves fearless till we confront a fearful situation We feel ourselves calm & composed till we face stressful situation We feel ourselves forgiving till we forgive our rival for a slipup done We feel ourselves forgetting others’ faults till we showcase our forgetting deed We feel ourselves non-violent till some trigger beyond our control happens We feel ourselves hurt-proof till hurtful situation dawns
We feel ourselves bereft of jealousy till proven otherwise We feel ourselves perfect till more daunting problem is faced.
For smoothing the negative emotions It is worth its while to stop blame game Since our negative triggers are due to our own fault The weakness of our own mind To resist the lure of negativism Best course open For us is to introspect about the causes Of negative thoughts Which triggered negative emotions Better option still would be To think that it was destined Due to our own karma Or best of all, It is God’s will In which case nothing could be done But to face the situation And move on With poise and calmness Albeit emotional triggers.
And start thinking What happened was as per our karma or destiny Of better still God’s will Without fixing blame Our emotions get more stronger And more stable in the process And get calm despite and more peaceful With stability of our emotions.
Every year 25th April is observed as World Malaria Day in order to bring to light the need for eradication of malaria globally. This year, the World Health Organization has marked this day with apt theme.
THEME MARKED BY WORLD MALARIA DAY
This year the World Health Organization has marked World Malaria Day under the theme “Harness innovation to reduce the malaria disease burden and save lives.”. With this theme in point, it is a mandatory requirement to take a number of initiatives by way of allocation of funds for publicity by the Government agencies and also conduct mosquito sprays and regular fogging to prevent mosquito breeding. Here both the Government Health Services and the general masses have to play their part.
PROVISION OF MEDICINES FOR THOSE HAVING SYMPTOMS OF MALARIA
In addition, hospitals and dispensaries should provide medicines such as quinine, oxycycline, tigecycline, clindamycin, azithromycin or co-trimoxazole (As prescribed by the doctor), along with spreading awareness campaign about keeping the area neat and clean so that all the houses and its surrounding areas are free from mosquito breeding.
PREVENTIVETIVE MEASURES FOR BREETING OF MOSQUOTOES
We all are aware that malaria is spread by mosquitoes and these parasites thrive while we create appropriate conditions for their survival and breeding. We have seen that rainy season is the most potent for these parasites to breed and infect people. Meaning, we ourselves are responsible for their spread and subsequently spread of the vector borne diseases which is considered as the fifth most dangerous diseases which have spread globally after diseases like HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and diarrhea especially in low income countries. Presently, Covid pandemic infection too is raising its head in many countries.
For this purpose, the following preventive measures needs to be made:-
COVERING OF WATER CONTAINERS
The overhead tanks or containers are to be covered properly with a strong lid so that there is no overflow. It should be noted that the free flow of water and contamination of water in pots becomes a breeding place for breeding of malaria larva. The leaking pipes and overflowing water should be stopped forthwith.
WATER KEPT IN POTS AND BROKEN CONTAINERS BECOME BREEDING PLACES FOR MOSQUITOES
Water kept in pots, broken containers/broken tyres kept in the vicinity of house or on the rooftops become most suitable places for the breeding. Care should be taken that either these unnecessary pots and containers are either cleaned on daily basis or dispensed with as these do not serve any purpose except to spread the mosquitoes hazard.
WATER COOLERS AND THE WATER CONTAIN IN THESE
It has also been observed that water which is put in the coolers used in the houses is not recycled on daily basis or weekly basis as the case may be. Alternatively, a spoon of k.oil should be put in such coolers so as the prevent the breeding of the malaria parasite. The coolers too are not cleaned properly therefore these become a breeding place for the mosquitoes.
PERSISTENT LEAKAGE OF WATER FROM THE PIPES
It has been observed that at many places due to the persistent leakage of water from the pipes on the streets, water gets collected and after sometimes gets stagnated/contaminated and thereafter becomes a breeding ground for malaria. All the street pipes should be leak-free to avoid leakage of water.
WEARING OF FULL SLEEVS WHERE MHERE MOSQUITO MANCE IS MORE CAN PREVENT MOSQUOTO BITES
In order to get escape from mosquito bites, full sleeve shirts should be borne where mosquito prevalence is widespread.
PERIODIC FOGGING AND SPRAYING ANTI-MALARIA SPRAYS
Fogging or spraying should be done regularly to prevent mosquito breeding.
USE OF MOSQUITO REPELLANTS
Mosquito repellants can also be used as a temporary measure in order to prevent mosquito bites and thus its prevention.
AWARENESS ABOUT THE VECTOR BORNE DISEASES
Awareness campaign to know about vector borne diseases including malaria (Anopheles mosquitoes), dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika (Aedes mosquitoes), Japanese encephalitis, etc.
GIVERNMENT AND PRIVATE HOSPITALS TO WORK IN TENDUM TO ERADICATE MALARIA
All the hospitals (Governmental and the private) should join hands in eradication of the vector borne illnesses.
SEASON FOR SPREAD OF MOSQUITO HAZARD
As the malaria breeding happens in rainy season therefore maximum preventive measures should be exercised prior hand so as to enhance awareness and also be ready for meeting the onslaught of the malaria related diseases if it turns widespread.
In India, due to the efforts of both Governmental and private agencies, there has been reduction in malaria cases but more needs to be done in order to eradicate malaria hazard completely.
It is also a fact that malaria is a disease which could be treated if disease us detected and proper medicine given. Need is to increase our focus on the regions wherein there is more burden of malaria globally.
I am of the opinion, if we have to realize the total eradication of malaria from the earth, all of us must be aware about its spread and how best to keep ourselves protected if and when malarial infection happens. One thing is clear, the message should be loud and clear that it is a disease and nobody should die due to malaria if timely detection and medi-care is provided on time.
Bhagwad Gita gives too much credence to mother earth. It is here that water, fire, air, living beings of every kind including humans reside (of course with body, mind and intelligence). All these are originated from God Almighty. Earth, water, fire, air, ether, mind, intelligence and false ego—altogether these eight constitute separated material energies.
WE HAVE TO PROTECT OUR EARTH
EARTH DAY ON 22ND APRIL 2022
The crying need for Earth Day was felt immensely After knowing the over-exploitation of Earth by the humans with utter cruelty To satiate his hunger selfishly Thus abusing The Earth enormously Thereby spoiling its balance of Nature hugely.
Thus with effect from 21st April 1970 sharp A day was fixed to honour the Mother Earth And the concept of peace Prosperity and of humans for their very survival Is dovetailed with it all.
This planet of ours provides us all the resources so urgently required Air, water, soil & fire which are most needed are gifts of Nature Besides, the living things such as animals and plants Pcrovide us food to eat – giving us energy, most needed Without which we cannot sustain and enhance our existence Even for a limited period of time.
Spoiling the purity of any or many or all the natural bounties Will spoil the balance of the Mother Nature Thereby impacting the Mother Earth.
The bosom of Mother Earth contains fossil fuel Besides wood from the forest areas too Which are used for furniture and building materials And could ultimately be used for cremation too Thus Mother Earth comes to our succor From cradle to our grave.
Minerals and metal ores are contained below the earth’s crust That are used for making products most useful for us humans As raw materials in industries For finished products finally.
Besides, providing us meaningful employment too Which enhances our comforts in our daily lives Thus developing, modernizing and facilitating us To provide ease which shapes our lives.
The quality of air, water and other bounties of nature Are pure when taken out from earth But the way we harness these bounties And extract them impact the entire ecosystem And thus the quality of these extracts Thus spoiling the sources of these natural resources Indirectly impacting our existence.
The way the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted globally Tells the humanity a different sordid story This hideous infection has not merely Taken human toll with its ill-effects but also impacted countries economically.
The war between Russia & Ukraine too is dangerous poised The bombings and the missile attacks on the hapless populace Has resulted in deaths & destruction And in the process spoiled the ecosystem
The Mother Earth is helping in absorbing the dead bodies Killed either due to infection Or due to bombing and missile attacks Either thru burial or through cremation Without any sort of discrimination Like any other mother on this earth Who brings up her children with full care and caution.
Due to humans’ negative attitude Our own dearest Mother Earth What we do for our Mother Earth so dear?
It has been revealed without doubt Whence the humans disturb the balance of Nature By playing with the laws of Nature It gives birth to invisible enemies Most hideous ones It may be due to polluting the environs By fires of forests and deforestation Thus denuding the Earth Crust And spoiling the Eco-system Or polluting the Water bodies By the pollutants from the households and industries Or through sound pollution Created by us so thoughtless humans Or worst still, Alas!
May be imbalance in our eating habits Thereby deciding what to put on our plates and eat And what we as humans should desist Leave for the elements to take care That bats may be the possible origin Of diseases like Ebola And now Novel Coronavirus Pandemic Which was having free run Infecting the populace around Thus having dangerous death dance globally.
The Mother Earth which bestows us with all sorts of gifts That sustains us from time we become flesh & blood Till time this body sustains us not.
With no expectations in return gift from us selfish humans Some of us use Nature’s creations Which are harmful for our body.
We leave litters around without a second thought After, partying & feasting at the mountain sites so enchanting With fragrance of natural flowers just intoxicating Making the environment so fascinating Adding splendour to the scenic beauty are the flora and fauna.
But the left over litters just spoil the virginity of mountain spots With spread of odour of leftovers of the people partaking foodstuff Stench also leaves a scar on the act of these people Who spoiled the place with their profane acts.
Left out road side old vehicle parts Wait till eternity for the people to pick these up Nobody ever comes to do this cleaning act Till elements like winds and rains mix these in the Mother Earth itself – alas! NATURAL WATER BODIES SHOULD NOT BE POLLUTED
Vehicle repair workshop just line up the roadsides Blackening the area with grease and what not Generating a shabby look around Green cover is being denuded For habitats for increased numbers And cultivation of food for multitudes Thus multiplying the adverse implications To the Eco-system Causing blizzards and change of climates.
Plundering the earth of the mineral wealth In the form of crude oilPrecious metals, stones and coal Leaving the earth bereft of natural resources Thus producing an imbalance to the internal fabric of the earth Which too comes out & reacts most violently Causing earthquakes of huge intensity Spreading deaths and destruction all around hugely.
Spewing of gases so poisonous To the sky above with impunity Enlarging the black-hole and creating wide-black-hole in our health Impacting us by most harmful sun rays.
My humble payer to all Have some pity onto the Mother Earth Not for us presently but AT LEAST for our coming generations.
WE ALLARE DEPENDENTON MOTHER EARTH FROM BIRTH TILL OUR DEATH
EARTH DAY ON 22ND APRIL 2022
WE ALL HAVE TO PROTECT IT IN EVERY WAY
Essentially, as far as our Earth is concerned, it has physical matter, solid substance along with gross objects. These are grouped in the category of the five elements (Mahabhutas) which could be termed as the cosmic substances. These are earth, air, water, fire and ether. Each one of these elements are inter-linked or associated with each other besides the space or ether or acts like a container or basket to sustain all these elements.
In Bible, it has ightly been said: But ask the beasts, and they will teach you; the birds of the heavens, and they will tell you; or the bushes of the earth, and they will teach you; and the fish of the sea will declare to you. Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this?
It is a fact that we can learn much from the living beings living on Earth more than our fellow beings. While I go for the morning walk, I see the street dogs, who follow me. My observation is that they willingly demark their areas of influence and remain stuck to their areas and there is no fight amongst these street dogs. Similar is the case with birds, in this case pigeons. When I give these birds feed, all take their respective place in different groups without transgressing others’ jurisdictions. Factually all living things, living on this Earth, observe discipline as dictated by Mother Nature. Humans living on this planet should learn from these.
WATER BODIES SHOULD NOTBE POLLUTED
If these elements are polluted by our acts of omissions and commissions as diminution of forest cover by cutting trees without planting the new ones, emission of poisonous gases in the atmosphere from the industrial units, pollution of water bodies with the affluence/wastes of industries. By so doing, we shall be violating the principles of natural laws. In other words, we spoil the balance of nature to satiate our greed. Here Mahatma Gandhi’s quote is most relevant: ‘Earth provides enough to satisfy every man’s needs, but not every man’s greed.’
EARTH HAS RICH SCENIC BEAUTIES WHICH SHOULD NOT BE SPOILED OR VIOLATED
It has been observed that when we do not observe the Laws of Nature and play with the Mother Nature irrationally– in our eating habits including our attitudes towards other creations (birds and animals). This Earth Day is coming at a time when globally the humanity has been facing the challenges posed by Novel Coronavirus Pandemic. The virus, Covid-19 virus, is the creation of humans due to their omissions and commissions to satiate their greed. We humans are spoiling the eco-system of the Mother Earth by oue eating habits, drinking habit, living habits etc.
The modesty of mother earth is also being violated by the raging war between Russia and Ukraine wherein missiles and bombs are being used in which killing of humans of all age groups and destroying their properties thus violeting the laws of nature. Apart from this, the atmosphere around has been polluted. For fulfillment of our ulterior and selfish motives, we are spoiling the eco-system without even a slightest thought about the consequences of our acts. Therefore need of the hour is to save the Mother Earth from the pollution which is impacting the lives of all the living beings globally.
Our benevolent God has created Earth and everything which it contains, including various seasons suiting the living world. The humans should maintain the balance of Nature by not spoiling the natural setting. All the elements of Mother Nature are beneficial for the living beings for their sustenance.
BEAUTIES OF EARTH OUGHT TO BE MAINTAINED
In Bible it has been mentioned: For behold, He who forms mountains and creates the wind. And declares to man what ae the thoughts, He who makes dawn into darkness, and treads on the high places of the earth. The Lord God of hosts I His name.
We know that the most essential forms of Nature without which we cannot have our existence at all are Earth, Water, Fire, Ether and Air. We know that life on this earth would not be possible if any one of these forms of Nature are not available at all.
All the creations live on the earth and use air and water by our body for chemical reaction which occur in the cells of all living beings in order to sustain life. This chemical reaction is termed as metabolism. This activity ensures growth of our body and also help in reproduction. The activity of growth and development along with reproduction cannot happen without a solid earth for living beings. Then there are the living beings which live and sustain themselves in water. These are called aquatic beings.
EARTH HAS BEAUTIFUL FLORA AND FAUNA
ALL THE LIVING BEINGS GAIN FROM EARTH
Mother Earth has been very kind to us in providing us everything from birth till death. It has on its crust trees, birds, forest cover and everything; lofty and majestic mountains, vast sea, water reservoirs, mesmerizing scenic beauties, flora and fauna, animal world and what not. All these add to our sustenance in our daily lives.
Mother Earth contains all sorts of mineral wealth which is helpful for further growth and development of the countries. But exploitation of the mineral wealth has also got a limit. We are cutting trees indiscriminately affecting the eco system. Industrial wastes are being thrown in the rivers polluting the water. We spew dangerous gases to the atmosphere affecting the atmospheric balance. Not only this even teh Antarctic Continent is being adversely affected by the acts of us humans.
Our earth contains flora and fauna – flora means trees and fauna means animal world. The trees are essential for us since the trees convert Carbon Dioxide (CO2) into Oxygen (O2). Without trees and green cover, on earth, we cannot have good health and wellness. The more trees we plant, the more greenery we would be having thereby a pollution-free environs for breathing.
The fragrance of flowers on the earth crust, the fruit trees, the crops we grow on the earth give us food to eat which sustains our lives.
EARTH HAS BEAUTIFUL FLORA AND FAUNA
If air is polluted by emission of harmful gases, we will be breathing in impure air resulting in lung related diseases, if water is impure, we are constrained to take in polluted water resulting in impacting our health, if earth’s eco-system is polluted by a mix of our activities then we can imagine the health hazards besides when the whole atmosphere is polluted, it can bring about severest harms to our climate, cause lung and respiratory related diseases, exposure to polluted air can cause cancer and could in many cases impair reproductive system etc. These affected severely are children and the old people including those who are constantly exposed to pollutants.
By our acts of omission and commission, we are doing everything to spoil the balance of the nature which is causing negative results implications to our next generations.
In Bhagwad Gita has rightly been said: As the earth thus becomes crowded with a corrupt population, whoever among any of the social classes shows himself to be the strongest will gain political power.
The citizens will suffer greatly from cold, wind, heat, rain and snow. They will be further tormented by quarrels, hunger, thirst, disease, and severe anxiety.
Both Nature and Spirit (Purusha) are without beginning and end. Nature is the source of all material things whereas spirit is the source of consciousness which experiences pains and pleasure. Then we have Spirit Supreme or Lord Supreme or Supreme which directs our lives and graces us wellness.
PHASING OUT THE PLASTIC MATERIALS
The constant use of plastic and throwing the used plastic items in the water bodies and on the surface of earth have polluted the earth crust. Besides throwing the used plastic items such as btotles, plastic bags/satchels etc. adversely impacts the life in sea and water bodies. Therefore, the best couse would be to to recycle the used plastic materials o phase out the use of plastic materials.
EVEN ENVIRONMENT SHOULD BE POLLUTION FREE
PLANTING OF TREES TO REDUCE WATER POLLUTION
Then we have ether (the atmosphere over the earth) which is essential for the survival of the living beings. The upper air of the atmosphere has to be kept pollution-free for breathing. It has been seen that we spoil the balance of Nature by polluting the air by our own omissions and commissions.
MORE PLANTS SHOULD BE PLANTED
Planting of more trees is answer to the problem of air pollution. Van Mohtasav (Tree Plantation) is one such programme for planting more trees on regular basis.
MORE THEBEAUTIES OF EARTH AND NATURE WITH IT BETTER IS THE LIFEOF LIVING BEINGS
TREE PLANTATION – VAN MOHTASAV
Van Mohtasa or tree plantation Factually, a forest week inception From 20th to 27th July 1947 As national tree plantation As a sacred mission Wherein trees were planted in great number to realize the vision Of fructifying the operation of tree plantation. Literally Van Mohtasav means tree plantation As a festival of highest significance In fact a sacred obligation of all humans The need of which is felt because of critical position Owing to disafforestation Will have on the climate change And the adverse impact of environment around Turning lush green tree covers Into deserts – putting the ecology in huge danger With rains so sparse at some places A dry spell of highest order Just parching the earth crust But there are too much of rains in many of the places Excessive rains without expectation resulting in deluges Resulting in deaths and destruction Of highest proportion Destroying standing crops Including destruction of men and materials As has been happening Not merely in Indian states But also in other countries too And making the lives of people intricate Soaring the atmospheric temperatures due to dry spell Due to heat-waves of highest order Consequence of which is forest fires In many countries round the globe Due to which glaciers have been melting Thus changing the Eco-system in general Making the lives of general masses unsustainable Then who is not aware About the tsunamis and strong storm so destructive In different parts of the world.Cure for all the woes Is planting of trees in great number Including reduction of pollution We should make the Van Mohatasav a tradition Which started in 1950 as an activity as national week Encouraging the general population Not merely tree plantation But also giving protection To the plants already planted Giving Van Mohatasav special significance Since it coincides with onset of monsoon season To plant more trees, in fact in great number Which in future Will create forest cover Which will prove useful for shade, shelter for birds And other living beings Source of food, fuel, households, furniture and many other usages. It will reduce droughts Prevent soil erosion Maintain the fertility of land. Unfortunately, trees are being cut For industrialization and urbanization Which though a necessity but should be done with absolute discretion.
Message should go to one and all That Van Mohatasav is a crying need of time And for this festival to be effective and beneficial for all It is necessary to plant more trees And afford protection to ensure protection to the trees so planted Useful not merely for current generation But also for the survival of our next generations May our Omnipotent and Omniscient Come to our succour In securing our future So Van Mahotasav should be taken as a National Duty To put an indelible stamp of security!
Hanuman Jyanti is being celebrated today Being the Chitra Purnima In Shakula Paksha following of Saturday He is the symbol of strength and amazing power He is passionate devotee Of Lord Rama The Maryada Prashotam While we want the blessings of Lord Ram We can worship Lord Hanuman Who is the Deity To whom we can worship for success of our mission Or any project we undertake in hand.
LORD HANUMAN JI
Hanuman’s prayers at this juncture When virulence Is taking its head again.
With Hanuman Chalisa recitation Or chanting of Mantra Om Eh Reem Hanumante Shri Ram Doote Namon
We can get His blessings.
To seek and get answers to our problems, so pressing His sincere worship could assist us In removing the negative forces Which has bedeviled our lives.
The devotees could offer prayers With flowers like marigold, rose With parsad as Ladu, halwa and banana Which are very dear to Lord Hanumana.
Born to mother Anjana As a reward for her worship of Lord Shiva Due to which Lord Hanumana Is called as the incarnation of Lord Shiva.
My sincere prayers to Lord Hanumana I entreat to thee the most urdent Bhakta of Lord Rama The savior of all the creations To rid the humanity off all the predicaments
LOVEAND LIGHT WITH THE BLRSSINGS OF LORD HANUMAN JI
Including the war between Russia & Ukraine
Which caused several deaths and destruction Oh Lord Hanumana, Thee saved the life of Lakshmana
You save the humanity from deaths and destruction
By imbibing sagacity and fair play in the world at large.
LORD RAMA & LAKSHMANA WORSHIPPING LORD SHIVA
LORD HANUMAN JYANTI TODAY – MAY THE BOUNTIFUL BLESSINGS OF LORD HANUMAN JI REMAIN ON US ALL
MAY THE GRACE OF HANUMAN JI REMAIN ON US ALL
Before relating the significance of this day, I offer my sincere prayer to the one who can deliver the humanity from pains and adversities caused to the hapless people of Ukraine and also other places. The deaths and destruction which was caused due to cronovirus pandemic still continues in some countries, I pray to Lord Hanumanji for delivering the sufferers from this virulent virus which had engulfed whole of the humanity. Sure enough, our sincere prayers can stop the novel coronavirus pandemic while observing all the norms of lockdown procedures.
BIRTH OF HANUMAN
Lord Hanuman was born to Anjana, the wife of Vanaraja Kesari (the King of Monkeys). It is believed that Anjana was cursed by Muni Vishwamitra for disturbing him. He cursed Anjana that she will give birth to a monkey. Anjana to get rid of the curse worshipped Lord Shiva and urged him to be a part of her son. Thus, it is believed that Lord Hanuman is an incarnation of Lord Shiva.
LORD HANUMAN JI’S JYANTI TODAY
Lord Hanuman Ji is the son of mother Anjana (An Apsara who was cursed by Rishi Vivhsvamitra to take birth on earth in Vanara family) and father Kesari the King of Sumeru. The Wind God Vayu had also a role in his birth besides being the Guru of Hanuman Ji. Lord Hanuman Ji is a well-known devotee of Lord Rama who is one of the pivotal characters epic Ramayana. His name has been mentioned in Vedas, Puranas, besides in Jain, Buddhist and Sikh scriptures. He is also known as an incarnation of Lord Shiva. He is not only worshipped in India but also in Nepal, Myanmar, Cambodia, Malaysia and Indonesia.
Hanuman Jyanti marks the birth of HANUMAN JI to father King Kesari and mother Anjani with the bounties of Wind King Pawan Dev Ji. The devotees who have strong influenceof Shani Dev Ji should worship Hanuman Ji. In this context, reciting of Hanuman Chalisa eight times is very effective to please Shani Dev Ji (Satron). He is hugely respected for His prowess and the one who bestows his graces on those KARMA YOGI are honest and sincere in their prayers.
Hanuman Jayanti is an important festival of the Hindus. Lord Hanuman is a passionate devotee of Lord Rama Ji. He is widely known for his undaunted loyalty to Lord Rama. Hanuman is the symbol of strength and energy besides known for devotion to Lord Rama. He is said to be able to assume any form at will, brandish the gada (including many other celestial weapons), and even move mountains which he exhibited when needed for bringing a medicinal plant to save the life of Lakshmana the brother of Lord Rama.
The devotees celebrate this day, worship Lord Hanuman Ji and also keep fast on this day and seek his blessings besides offer Ladoos to Him as these are liked by Him. They receive Parsad in the form of sweets, flowers, Tilak etc. The Param Bhakta of Lord Hanuman Ji also recite devotional songs praising Lord Hanuman Ji for his Shakti and Bhakti and also seek his blessings besides sing HANUMAN CHALISA in his praise for receiving his graces.
PRAYER BY THE DEVOTEES
On this auspicious day, devotees of Lord Hanuman pray him and seek his protection and blessings. They flock to temples to worship him and present religious offerings. In return, The devotees receive parsada from the temple priests in the form of sweets, flowers, coconut etc. People also celebrate him on this day by reciting various devotional songs (especially Hanuman Chalisa). The devotees also recite Beej Mantra – OM EH REEM HANUMANTE SRI RAM DOOTE NAMON. In this Hanuman Ji is prayed for being a devout messenger of Lord Rama who is a symbol of strength and energy.
LORD HANUMAN JI’S CONNECTION WITH VAYU DEVI JI
It has also been mentioned in Valmiki Ramayana that Hanuman’s father Kesari, the king of Sumeru was the son of Brihaspati. Due to the intense prayers of Anjana and Kesari to Lord Maheshwara, a son was born to them named Hanuman an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Vayu (The deity of Wind). He too had a role in the birth of Hanuman Ji and that is why we term him as the son of Vayu.
MENTION OF LORD HANUMAN JI IN VISHNU PURANA
In Vishnu Purana, there is also a mention of the birth of Hanuman Ji. Narda Muni wanted to marry a beautiful princess for which he wanted to have Lord Vishnu like face. Instead, Lord Vishnu gave him the face of a monkey, thereupon Narda cursed Lord Vishnu that this ape-like face (Vanara) will assist him when he would be in dire need. This was also the reason of Hanuman Ji’s birth because, without his help, the task of defeating Demon King Ravana would have been very difficult.
VARIOUS NAMES OF LORD HANUMAN JI AND THEIR SIGNIFICANCE
Lord Hanuman Ji is Rudra Avtara, another name of Lord Shiva. He is also worshipped by various names by His devotees such as Bala Ji (Child Hanuman), Anjaneya (Son of Anjana), Mahavira (Full of bravery and courage bestowed upon him by Sun God), Balarka (Sadrushanana like the rising sun), Batnasiddhikara (Giver of Strength), Bajranghbali (With huge strength), Bhakta Vastsaka (Protector of devotees), Bhavishya (One who knows about future happenings), Chiranjevini (Immortal), Chaturbahave (Four armed), Danta (Peaceful), Dheera (Most courageous), Deenabandhave (Defender of the oppressed), Daithyakulantaka (Destroyer of the demons), Kesrisuta (Son of kesri), Hanumanta (One with Puffy cheeks), Intrajit (Remover of the effect of Indrajit’s Brahmastra), Jai Kapeesh (Hailing monkey), Kapishwara (Head of monkey army), Kabalikruta (One who swallowed the Sun),
LORD HANUMANJI IS A BACHELOR WITH YOUTHFUL STRENGTH
Kumarabrahmacharine (Bachelor with youthful strength), Panchavaktra (Five faced), Pratapavate (Known for his bravery), Yogini (Yogi par excellence), Rudraveerya (Born of Shiva), amongst so other names for showering of His graces and blessings. He is known for His ritualistic healing power and have the power to remove the evil spirits from the bodies of the devotees and Mehandipur, the Abode of Sri Bala Ji exerts its positive influence on His devotees.
HANUMAN JI BESTOWS HIS GRACES TO HIS DEVOUTS
From the various names that Lord Hanuman Ji is known, it is evident that he helps his devotees to cure their sufferings, comes to their rescue in tiding over their difficult situations, curing them of their ailments caused due to some ill-effects of magical powers, one who bestows us courage as He is known for his courageous acts which He exhibited while Hanuman Ji was taken to Demon King Ravana’s palace in chains by his son Meghnatha while He was on the mission of locating Sita Maa in the custody of Demon King Ravana. He not only burnt the Golden Lanka of Ravana but also exhibited very benign demeanour to Ravana’s brother Babishana, a Ram Bhakta himself – PROVING HIS MULTI-FACETED ROLE AMONGST THE DEVTAS.
A DEVOUT BHAKTA OF LORD SRI RAMA
Lord Hanuman Ji is known for his Bhakti and for Lord Rama besides his heroic initiatives and power are well known to us all. He is known for his martial arts – amongst which use of gadha, wrestling, acrobatics and also meditation. He is an epitome of celibacy/chaste and inner control including devotion to his duty. He performed the special role in helping Lord Rama in retrieving Sita Maa after Demon King Ravana abducted her from Panchbati in the disguise of a Sadhu by deception. Hanumanji was sent to Lanka for getting information on Sita Maa. He surmounted several hurdles while crossing the ocean. When he reached in Lanka, Sita Maa felt very pleased but at the first instance, she was skeptical about him since she thought that he could be one of the deceptive stances of King Ravana. But on showing the golden ring of Lord Rama, she was convinced that he was actually the doot or Messenger sent by Lord Rama for locating her.
LORD HANUMAN JI’S VISIT TO LANKA IN SEARCH OF SRI SITA MAA
Subsequently, Hanuman Ji expressed his desire and asked for permission to allow him to have some fruits from the Vatika (garden) of Ravana as he felt very hungry due to his long and tiring sojourn. She allowed him but with reservation since she did not want that any harm should happen to the Ram’s doot. When allowed to have fruits, Hanuman Ji started not only taking fruits but also uprooting the trees. When the demon guards intervened, he killed them all. This news went to King Ravana, he sent his son Meghnath who with deception brought him in front of Ravana – that was the opportunity Hanuman Ji was waiting for; firstly to convince the king to return Sita Maa to Lord Rama with respect besides asking for his forgiveness for kidnapping her.
This was vehemently opposed by the king Ravana who was filled with the ego of his prowess along with he being one of the fondest Bhaktas (worshippers) of Lord Shiva. He flatly refused to do so. Instead, on the advice of his advisors, he ordered that the tail of Hanuman Ji be burnt. Having lit the tail, Hanuman Ji showed to the Lankan what he could do. He burnt the entire Lanka by hopping from home to home. All this sent a shock wave to the entire Lankans – an indication of things to come for Ravana for his misdemeanor. During this, Hanuman Ji met Ravan’s brother Vabhishana who was Lord Rama’s Bhakta. During this period, Hanuman Ji liberated Lord Shani Dev Ji, the dispenser of Justice from the confinement of Ravana.
WHY SINDOOR IS IMMERSED IN LORD HANUMAN’S STATUE
We immerse sindoor on the idol of Hanuman Ji which is liked by Hanuman Ji. We also apply some of the sindoor on our forehead from the foot of the idol of Hanuman Ji. There is a legend for this too. While Sita Maa was applying sindoor as a tika on her forehead, Hanuman Ji asked why she was putting vermilion on her forehead. She replied that it was t ensure the long life for her husband – Lord Rama. Hanuman Ji for ensuring the long life of Lord Rama applied sindoor to his entire body and that is why we smear his entire idol with it.
A WELL KNOWN LEGEND ABOUT HANUMAN JI’S TEST FOR HIS LOVE AND DEVOTION
Hanuman Ji was the chief devotee of Lord Rama. This was proved by a legend. While Maa Sita Ji wanted to award Hanuman with gems’ garland, Hanuman simply broke the pieces of garland. Sita Maa felt very surprised and wanted to know about the reason for breaking the garland pieces. In reply to this, Hanuman Ji told that the image of Ram Ji resides in His heart and therefore he needed no gift of any kind. Then, Hanuman tore the part of his chest, and lo and behold, the image of Lord Rama and Maa Siya Ji was there etched. All this proved that in every atom of Hanuman Ji, Lord Rama remained stamped.
SRI HANUMAN CHALISA
In Hanuman Chalisa, Hanuman has been described to be a reservoir of knowledge who ensures for the awakening of general people. He is the messenger of Lord Rama, the son of Anjana and Kesari. He helps in removal of ignorance and helps in enlightenment. He is the worshipper of Lord Ram and Maa Sita. The magnificence of his attire has been mentioned. He was sent was dispatched to Lanka as the messenger to know about the whereabouts of Maa Sita where he killed many demons. Even Vibhishan the brother of Lankesh knew everything about Lord Hanuman Ji. Despite his knowledge, energy (Shakti), empowered by boons by different God-heads in various aspects, his prayer, and love to Lord Rama excelled everything else. Those who pray Him are bestowed with all sorts of bounties and his graces remain with them. He is the ultimate remover of bad luck from our midst if we sincerely pray Him.
We offer our sincere prayers to Lord Hanuman Ki since he personifies unlimited strength and limitless courage. Those who are berft of any wisdom should worship him and they will get knowledge, wisdom and get delverance from the difficulties in which they are engulfed.
For, Hanumanji is an ocean of knowledge and wisdom. He adores and worships the Lord Rama thus that is why He is being bestowed all the good traits of goodness. He performed the difficult tasks of Lord Rama and that is why we call Him the most beloved and adoreable of Lord Rama and Sita Maa.
He exterminated the most ferocious demons. For all the tasks assigned and fructified, Lord Rama expressed his gratitude for the tasks done for Lord Rama due to which Lord Rama was able to bring back Sita Maa from Lanka after killing evil minded Ravana. All the people sing praises for the laudable noble tasks done along with Sugreeva and his force of monkeys who did everything in order to fructify the task of fighting the battle with Demon King Ravana. Even Ravana’s brother Vibheesan adopted his Mantra in praise of Lord Rama. He gave the ring of Lord Rama to his consort at Ashok Vatika which in fact was a very difficult task.
Those who sincerely worship Him are not affected by any ghost or bad spirit. Such a person is relieved from even the deadily diseases. He also delivers us of all the negative Karmic deeds. Those who worship Hanuman Gosahim Ji’s praises are bestowed the blesssings and graces of Lord Rama and Sita Maa. The Sage Tulsi Dass opines that those who sincerely worship Hanuman Ji do get the bountiful graces of both the Lord Rama and Sita Maa.
The Valmiki Ramayana and Ramayana written by Goswami Tulsidas very compressively tell us the details of Ayodhya King Dashratha and all the description till the end. These amongst others are very popular amongst the people.
Hanuman Ramayana. There is the description of Hanumat Ramayana in old Hindu scriptures – Vedas and Sikandpurana etc. This was the description of Ramayana codified by Lord Hanuman Ji. This was codified by Hanumanji with his nails on the rocks. After reading this descriptive Ramayana, Maharishi Valmiki got very disappointed as his own written Ramayana was not as good as he had seen the one written by Hanuman Ji. Lord Hanuman Ji got moved by the concern of Valmiki Ji, therefore, he threw that portion of the rock into the sea so that nobody could read the Ramayana written by Him.
Thereupon, Maharishi Valmiki promised to take birth in next Yuga as Goswami Tulsidas and write comprehensive Ramayana which is read by all of us now.
RELATION BETWEEN LORD Lord Hanuman Ji is the incarnation of SHIVA AND LORD HANUMAN JI
Lord Shiva hence one who worships Lord Hanuman ji gets graces from Lord Shiva and vice versa too.
HANUMAN – THE SEVAK OF LORD RAM
RELATION OF LORD HANUMAN JI WITH LORD SHANI DEV JI
Lord Hanuman Ji while on the sojourn to Lanka to locate Sita Maa happened to meet Lord Shani Dev Ji (Saturn) (the son of Sun also and Chhaya Putra) in the prison of Demon King Ravana. Lord Hanuman Ji freed Lord Shani Devi Ji therefore there developed friendship between the two. Even Shani Dev Ji cast his spell (sight) on Lord Hanuman Ji which helped Him to speedily burn Golden Lanka of Ravana. If we pray lord hanuman ji, the graces of Lord Shani Devi Ji too remain with us
MAY LORD HANUMAN JI’S BOUNTIFUL GRACE REMAIN ON THE HUMANITY AS A WHOLE AND DELIVER US ALL FROM THE HOUR OF ADVERSETY CREATED BY THE VIRULENT VIRUS.
Good Friday is a day to reminisce And become conscious of our follies For those who’ve firm belief In the teachings of Lord Jesus Christ The preaching which enriches the humans of all hues Thus making our life awe-inspiring.
It is the holiest of all days put together A day which we recollect every year When our beloved one offered himself on the cross Without even a slightest emotional upsurge To uphold truth bereft of any ill will towards those responsible.
We term this day as Good Friday A day of huge reckoning for the humanity Whence our heart aches limitlessly With sadness writ large on the faces of gentry All those who hath knowledge about this Friday.
This solemn day is observed as an anniversary Whence Jesus Christ – the most revered One Left his corporal body from this earth To the abode of the Supreme Spirit.
Prayers with fasting is observed on this day On this particular day we reminisce this Friday While purity of this day remains etched in hearts Of all those who know that he died for us all.
In His lifetime this Messenger of Holy Spirit Was most virtuous and compassionate And overly serene whilst meeting his own end in flesh and blood At the hands of those who did not know what they were up to Just ignorant lots Underwent crucification and final surrender to the Lord On this day – a solemn one at that.
Even then he sought forgiveness for his perpetrators – the heartless ones And the sinful ones at the helm responsible for his crucification!
With final and eternal utterance, he forgave them for their ignorance ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do’.
Such words surcharged with compassion are rarest of rare – ever heard Which could only be from the heart of one who is the dearest son Of the Omnipotent and Omniscient One – the most compassionate One.
A lesson to us humans, a most credible one So merciful he was even to the irreligious ungodly lots Drunk they were with power and pelf along with ego overflowing A temporary phenomenon for us earthlings.
Such empathy is a key to Christ Consciousness Suffering for us – relentless pain with a lot of humiliation A death so holy – indeed for our redemption Such supreme sacrifice is an instrument of compensation Which strikes at the tender chords of our heart, so palpable realization That the Messengers of God cannot remain in void for so long.
Hence end of that life span, followed resurrection Thus stunning the general masses at large by his revivification Methods may different in observation Yet the sacredness of Good Friday for ever remains The devout kneel with utmost reference Before the Wooden Cross kept in Churches, so holy on this day.
Thence last words of Lord Christ are also repeated ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do’.
So that those solemn words may remain imprinted in our recollection Thence a symbolic burial of the Lord is undertaken For which difference could be in method But the inner most emotions are obviously very touching For our beloved Jesus Christ Who for Truth’s sake gave His own life form So that we humans are absolved of our sins Which a true son of God can only make it happen.
Factually dark spot on the anal of history is the crucification Thence Easter is the bright spot in the form of resurrection Whence the Star shined with a greater vigor in form and manifestation Opening new pathways for our association With Lord Jesus christ in His resurrection.
GOOD FRIDAY – A SOLEMN OCCASION TO REMEMBER
Essentially, history is reveals us of several examples and witness to the fact that various incarnations of our Creator had to endure trials and tribulations in their real life time while living on this earth. People who opposed their ideas and ideals always opposed them tooth and nail because these God’s Incarnations were the messengers of peace and their mission was to spread the ETERNAL TRUTH and remove the specter of ignorance from our midst.
The Messengers of our God also helped in removal of evil that prevailed in the society at that time. They preached the dictum: ‘Bless them that curse you.’ They presented a living example for us humans to see how best they withstood onslaughts of those who opposed the very ideals which with divergent viewpoints – departure from their pseudo and outdated beliefs. They had to withstand the wraths of egocentric power hungry people.
While reforming the masses and showing them the true path, the messenger of our God Jesus Christ faced several hurdles from those who opposed his ideas. The other incarnations like Lord Krishna, Lord Rama, Prophet Mohammad faced similar hurdles at every step but with their foresight and fortitude these Apostles of Peace challenged the old and hackneyed mores of behavior and came out unscathed ultimately.
Surprisingly, after their earthy sojourns, they were accepted as the Messengers of God by the very people who opposed them in the first instance and remain giving their respectful place even now. This is the tragedy of humans that we do not recognize our God’s Messengers/Incarnations while they were on this planet like us humans but when they are no longer with us then we take them as their revered ones and worship them for their preaching! This is a travesty of fact with our humans. I term this as the weakness in the egoist mindset people.
Lord Jesus Christ is one such example amongst others. These Messengers of Peace fought for the common people and were able to rid the society of the evil doers and challenged the very philosophies of people at the helm of affairs during the periods on this earth. In that process these Sons of God had to face opposition. People who mattered suspected these God’s messengers because their ideals were counter to their (powerful opponents) own and in upholding these they (Sons of God) had to face umpteenth difficulties
During the life time Jesus Christ did everything to rid the then society of the evils prevalent and wanted to change the outlook of the people.
Although Jesus Christ suffered humiliation and immense pain at the hands of his tormentors yet he felt sympathy even for his tormentors while he agonized on the cross for us all. We should never forget that He suffered so that we are redeemed of our sins that we as humans do commit. There were disturbances and upheavals after he gave up his spirit.
Crucification of Jesus Christ gave a new meaning of life to us humans to follow. His ideals and preaching are held dear by us all and will remain so till eternity. May this Day remain etched in our memory as the day of redemption of humanity and He remains a beacon of light for all of us on this earth.
JESUS CHRIST’S HEALING TOUCH
In essence it is said that there is always a light after the darkness. Jesus used to heal the physical ills of masses, he wanted their highest good while he was in flesh and blood like us. But the insensitive people just crucified him! This is also a fact that he had the power to escape being crucified but he did not do so. And even in agony he said: ‘Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.’ That is why He had to come back again for our happiness and for our purification. This purification is attained only when we’ve conquered our weaknesses in the form of our ego etc.
CRUCIFICATION A DARK BLOT
If crufication was a dark blot on those who crucified Jesus, the Easter is commemorated as a symbol of resurrection. Easter celebration has a historic perspective. It also symbolizes rebirth; a pious day that is why devotees decorate their houses, rejoice, mass prayers are conducted in Churches. It is a celebration in connection with the rising of Christ – the Son of God. Easter also opens doors for a holy association with God through Jesus Christ.
MESSENGERS OF GOT ALWAYS SPREAD GOODNESS IN THE SOCIETY
Essentially, history is reveals us of several examples and witness to the fact that various incarnations of our Creator had to endure trials and tribulations in their real life time while living on this earth. People who opposed their ideas and ideals always opposed them tooth and nail because these God’s Incarnations were the messengers of peace and their mission was to spread the ETERNAL TRUTH and remove the specter of ignorance from our midst. The Messengers of our God also helped in removal of evil that prevailed in the society. They preached ‘Bless them that curse you.’ They presented a living example for us humans to see how best they withstood onslaughts of those who opposed the very ideals which has divergent viewpoints – departure from their pseudo and outdated beliefs.
HURDLES FACED BY OUR BELOVED LORD
While reforming the masses and showing them the true path, the messenger of our God Jesus Christ faced several hurdles from those who opposed his idea. The other incarnations like Lord Krishna, Lord Rama, Prophet Mohammad faced many hurdles at every step but with their foresight and fortitude these Apostles of Peace challenged the old and hackneyed mores of behavior and came out unscathed ultimately. Surprisingly, after their earthy sojourns they were accepted as the Messengers of God by the very people who opposed them in the first instance and remain giving their respectful place even now. This is the tragedy of humans that we do not recognize our God’s Messengers/Incarnations while they were on this planet but when they are no longer with us then we take them as their revered ones and worship them for their preaching! This is a travesty of fact with our humans.
Lord Jesus Christ is one such example amongst others like Prophet Mohammad, Lord Krishna, Lord Rama who gave new meaning and content to the philosophy of living. These Messengers of Peace fought for the common people and were able to rid the society of the evil doers and challenged the very philosophies of people at the helm of affairs during the periods on this earth. In that process these Sons of God had to face opposition. People who mattered suspected these God’s messengers because their ideals were counter to their (powerful opponents) own and in upholding these they (Sons of God) had to face trials and tribulations. During the life time Jesus Christ did everything to rid the then society of the evils prevalent and wanted to change the outlook of the people.
Although Jesus Christ suffered humiliation and immense pain at the hands of his tormentors yet he felt sympathy even for his tormentors while he agonized on the cross for us all. We should never forget that He suffered so that we are redeemed of our sins that we as humans do commit. There were disturbances and upheavals after he gave up his spirit.
Crucification of Jesus Christ gave a new meaning of life to us humans to follow. His ideals and preaching are held dear by us all and will remain so till eternity. May this Day remain etched in our memory as the day of redemption of humanity and He remains a beacon of light for all of us on this earth.
It is well said, there is always a light after the darkness. Jesus used to heal the physical ills of masses, he wanted their highest good while he was in flesh and blood like us. But the insensitive people just crucified him! This is also a fact that he had the power to escape being crucified but he did not do so. And even in agony he said: ‘Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.’ That is why He had to come back again for our happiness and for our purification. This purification is attained only when we’ve conquered our weaknesses in the form of our ego etc.
If crufication was a dark blot on those who crucified Jesus, the Easter is commemorated as a symbol of resurrection. Easter celebration has a historic perspective. It also symbolizes rebirth; a pious day that is why devotees decorate their houses, rejoice, mass prayers are conducted in Churches. It is a celebration in connection with the rising of Christ – the Son of God. Easter also opens doors for a holy association with God through lO Jesus Christ.
MAY THE BLESSINGS OF THE LORD MAHAVIRA REMAIN ON US ALL
Lord Mahavira, known as Vardhamana Is regarded as the 24th Tirthankaras A spiritual successor of 23rd Tirthankara Parshvanatha Born in the early part of 5th century BC Into a family of Kshtriya Gotra In present day Bihar His birth is celebrated as Mahavir Jayanti And his Nirvana is observed by Jains as Diwali It is recorded that he was born on 599 BC & died in 510 BC Kalpa Sutra mention his birthday between 1375 – 1400 CE Vira Nirvana Samvat era began in 527 BC With Nirvana of Mahavira at Pavapuri in Bihar Is considered holiest place for Jains and others.
Opinions may differ from person to person But his preaching are second to none In spiritual knowledge and awakening.
For 12 years long He lived a life of total renunciation And attained omniscience – Kevala Jnana Or eternal knowledge Knowhow which could be universal in nature Subsequently be got moksha In 6th century BC. Mahavira taught based on Jainism principles Which are respected as those of Lord Buddha.
Mahavira also known as Vardhamana Was the 24th Tirthankara Meaning a savior and a well known Spiritual Preacher Who made significant efforts in reviving Jainism.
With his spiritual and ethical teachings of tirthankaras The base of which was laid in Pre-Vedic era.
He left his home while he was about 30 years And became a true ascetic in true sense of terms Followed severest Bhakti Marga (Path) In the form of severest penance – Bhakti For his spiritual awakening And enlightenment.
HIS TEACHINGS ARE THE RAYS OF LIGHT
His earnest Bhakti earned for him Omniscience – Kevala Jnana Finally attained Nirvana or liberation – Moksha At the age of seventy two
His teachings included non-violence – ahemsa Truth, what is right and what is wrong – satya & Astya The importance of non-attachment – Aparigraha Taught about chastity – Brahmacharya Thence numerous realities – Anekantavda All his teachings are codified in – Jain Agamas His earliest known historical signs at Mathura’
Mahavira is known variously Such as Samana, Nayaputta, Brahmham, Bhagwan and Muni Mahavira’s childhood name was Vardhamana As per text Digambara Uttarapuranna Mahavira was born in Kundgrama.
In the Kingdom of the Videhas The one who grows in stature and worth And helps others too to grow all around. In the Kalpasutras in Bihar Lived as severest ascetic life for 12 years Then preached Jain philosophy for 30 years He is termed as the great hero – Mahavira He faced all the ups and downs of his life with unmatched stamina In the traditions of Svetambara In the early Budhist Suttas He is called as worthy one – Araha In Vedas he is known as devoid of love and hate Sramana But truth stands out that he preached Jainism philosophy Tirthankara means savior or spiritual preacher Svetambara texts mention his birth on 13th Day of 599 BC At Kundagrama as his place of birth In the month of Chaitra In the Vira Nirvana Samvat calendar era Which falls in the month of March-April Lets adopt his noble teachings in our life For making it sublime and purposeful With love flowing for everybody And hate none With non-use of force While living a life suffusing with truthfulness Not overly attached to the worldly possessions Or not stealing what is not ours.
HAPPY MAHAVIR JYANTI
Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara was born on 599 BC and died in 510 BC. It is also mentioned in Kalpa Sutra that he was born between 1375 – 1400 CE in a family of a Kshtriya in present day Bihar. .
I pray to Lord Mahavira who got his Omniscience – Kevala Jnana or eternal knowledge after undergoing extreme penance may bestow the humanity wellness, peace and prosperity and rid the humanity from the scourge. I want to see happiness and joy on the faces of all along with self belief and belief on God.
While the world at large, and particularly so, India, are passing through most trying situations and condition created by double mutant Novel Coronavirus Pandemic.
The hope now is partly on the bountiful blessings of Lord Mahavira. I offer my sincerest prayers to the Lord to protect the precious lives of humanity around the world. Wish that all are administered vaccines. In the interim, scare created by the scarcity of Oxygen should be made good as soon as possible by the active intervention of all concerned post haste otherwise death and destruction would be huge. All states should cooperate in this context so that no precious life is lost due to the non-availability of O2. I am sanguine, of course, blessings of our Lord Mahavira would anyhow be there and the scare created by Covid-19 gets evaporated.
If we act on the following five principles of Lord Mahavira preaching, we would make our lives sublime thereby lead a life of peace and prosperity.
The five vows (Vrtas) which Mahavira Preached are enumerated as under:-
PPRINCFIVE VOWS OF LORD MAHAVIRA
LORD MAHAVIRA SPREAD THE MESSAGE OF LOVE AND LIGHT
Ahimsa (Non-violence). Mahavira preached to maintain sanctity and dignity of all in the spirit of Ahimsa – without force or intimidation. It should be in action, speech and thought. Satya (Truthfulness). He stressed about being truthful in thoughts and actions.
• Asteya (Non-stealing). Nobody should steal what is not ours.
• Brahmacharya (Chastity).He taught abstinence from sex and sensual pleasures for monks and faithfulness to one’s partner for householders.
• Aparigaha (Non-attachment). An attitude of non-attachment to property or worldly possessions should be given much credence.
• Truthfulness (Satya). It applied to individual and for others.
TEACHINGS OF LORD MAHAVIRA
• Non-use of force (Ahimsa) while getting something done.
• Following truth (Satya).
• Opposing untruth (Asatya) in any event.
• Following a life of chastity (Brahmacharya).
• We should follow a life of non-attachment to the fruits of our action (Aparigraha).
• There are multi-dimensional realities (Anekatavada) to reach the truth.
• Remain fearless in hardships and in calamities that is why he is called as Tirthankara.
• Knowledge which is universal is based on truth should be followed.
• All humans undergo several reincarnations according to our karma therefore we should perform right karma.
• It is believed that soul exists an is eternal i.e. does not die as the body dies – a principle which is being followed in Hinduism.
• Karma includes actions and intent. The effects of good karma and bad karma.
• The goal of spiritual practice to liberate the jiva from the karmic accumulation and enter the realm of the Siddhas and finally liberation after one attains total detachment from the worldly possessions or for that matter anything after following a life of self-restraint.
• He taught about many sided realities and truth and reality are complex. Reality could be experienced. Onne can experience the truth of taste but cannot fully express that taste through language. Spiritual truths are also very complex. These could be experienced through self effort and right karma.
• Jainism believes in plurality of humans and freedom of belief.
• The significance of following the five principles is to achieve spiritual peace for better rebirth or reincarnation or liberation after following highly spiritual life. The Mahavira also put emphasis on restraint and be compassionate to other creatures as well. In other words, the life of self-discipline is of paramount importance. The cleansing of soul leads to spiritual development based on supreme moral virtue.
• The teachings of Lord Mahavira are more relevant now than ever since the deaths and destruction which is happening presently is a cause of concern.
A festival most dear to us A festival which is seasonal in nature A festival which showcases the hard work of our farmers A festival on which farmers thanks God for their bountiful crops A festival which helps the people to congregate at one place called Mela- fair A festival on which competitions in Bhangra and Gidha are held A festival which gives platform to the artisans to sell their wares A festival which is celebrated differently in different regions A festival of which main reason for celebration remains the same A festival which is also the beginning of New Year – Vikrami Samvat A festival on which new resolutions are made for the coming year. ❤😂💜💥💔🐥
While wishing you all Happy New Year Of Vikrami Samvat Calendar A lunar calendar based on ancient Hindu tradition of yore, Falling, surprising on 13th or 14 April on every year! When new resolutions are made by the general masses This year, though, the resolutions Are of different sorts These are for prayers to Almighty God To keep the humanity in general immune From the virulence of the Covid-19 And also a sincere prayer for ending the razing war Between Russia and Ukraine Which is causing deaths & destructions A prayer for our children and the old ones Who are falling victim to the bombing and missile attacks A For their good health and wellness of all.
A festival Vasaikhi is celebrated variously in different regions. Whilst the farmers toil in the fields on months on ends, Tilling their lands from morning till late in the evening, Occasionally forgetting even their meals, Sow seeds and water the crop that grows, Taking care for the crop in the fields, Observes its growth with keenness, So that his crop’s yield may increase, Like he observes the growth of his dear ones at home. On this auspicious day the farmers, Having collected all the harvested crops I also prayer for the farmers and their love ones For their good health, wellness Because if the yields in the fields is good Then we shall be able to get the required food At the cheaper rates.
EVEN THE PLANTS EFFUSE JOY IN THEIR FRAGRANCE
The farmers in their normal times, Join together in singing and merrymaking with full gusto, Celebrate Baisakha with Bhangra by the males And Gidha by females at full throttle, In their colourful mesmeric folk attires, Distributing sweets and good wishes in delight, At the holy monuments of ‘pirs’ and ‘fakirs’, Known for their sacredness across all religions, Offer prayers for the prosperity all around, And also for their crop yield to grow, years after years.
MOTHER NATURE IS AT ITS BEST
The Mother Nature too is at its colorful best, With flowers giving out fragrance all around, The blanket of greenery spreading far and wide, Everywhere your eyes could see, all across, Making the environs invigorating and joyous indeed, Surprisingly, without even intoxicating agent!
GURU GOBIND SINGH JI
This day too has a history of its own, Guru Gobind Singh established Khalsa Panth On this day in 1699, To bestow security to the hapless, Along with meeting the needs of the needy, People too gather in various Gurudwaras, And offer prayers, Shri Golden Temple emits its splendour as ever, Devout take a dip in the holy tank, And pray for wellbeing of their nears and dears.
WISHING YOU ALL – MAY THIS FESTIVAL BRINGS ABOUT SMILES AND HAPPINESS ON THE FACES OF ALL
JOYOUS ENVIRONS
Although, Vaisakhi which is on 13th or 14th April 2020, is held in the form of fair or large congregation but it is fitness of things to remember about this festival and the importance of this day.
It is the start of Baisakh, The New Year which bestows us opportunity of passing new resolution for the year ahead; as is usually done after 1st of January every year.
LET THIS CELEBRATION BE FOR GOOD HEALTH AND WELLNESS OF ALL CREATIONS
India is a land of festivals. All festivals are in commemoration of certain historical events, change of season, cultural and religious events, traditional based et al. The well-known amongst several ones are Dussehra, Diwali, Eid, Gurpurbh, Lohri, Holi and others having regional leanings. In all these festivals, people of all hues celebrate with gaiety and religious fervour.
Baisakhi is generally celebrated in Northern India on 13th OR 14th April every year. It is also a starting of New Year of Vikrami Samvat Calendar.
REASONS FOR CELEBRATION OF BAISAKHI
In India, there are fairs and festivals which are celebrated on the occasion of season change and on the occasion of name of some religious festivals or national festivals. Vaisaikhi is celebrated on the Vikrami Samvat; the start of the new year. Factually this is a spring harvest festival.
FORMATION OF KHALSA PANTH BY GURU GOBIND SINGH JI
The Vaisakhi festival too is celebrated in connection with the formation of Khalsa Panth of warriors under the stewardship of Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. This festival has a special significance for Sikhs, marking the birth of Sikh Order (Order of the Pure Ones) after the execution of Guru Tegh Bahadur who refused to convert himself to Islam on the orders of Mughal Emperior Aurangzeb. Alsom Ranjit Singh was also proclaimed as the Maharaja of the Sikh Empire on 12th April. 1801 which also has its eonnection with Vaisakhi. On this day the Gurdwaras are tastefully decorated and hymens from Sri Granth Sahib are recited with fervor and reverence.
RELIGIOUS PRAYERS OR NAGAR KIRTAN
On this day, Sikh communities Nagar Kirtan in the form of congregations are celebrated. These are lead by the Five Khalsa termed as Panj Pyaaras. This procession goes from street to street singing prayers from the Sikh Scriptures.
REASONS BEHIND CELEBRATION OF BAISAKHI
It is celebrated on the occasion of 1st day of Vaisakh month of Vikrami Calendar (samat).
BAISAKHI is a seasonal festival and it is especially celebrated in Punjab region and in Jammu province.
After harvesting the wheat crop the farmers feel joyous and to express their joy they celebrate it by staging Bhangra in different groups, Bhangra competitions are also held and award presented to the one which wins this competition. This is in the form of fairs (melas) wherein people gather in majority and make merry. Different stalls selling wooden crafts and other household earthen wares are sold there at reasonable prices. Then there are the stalls selling the seasonal fruits like water melon, musk melon etc make brisk sales. All age group people including children enjoy Baisakhi fair.
Vaisakhi also affords an opportunity or an occasion to thank God for bestowing the formers with bountiful crops besides praying for more crops in future too.
Vaisakhi has special significance for Sikhs since on this day, Khalsa Panth was established by 10th Sikh Guru Gobind Singh. On this day Sadh Sangat take organise religious congregations and sing prayers and rhymes from Sri Granth Sahib.
Hindus and Budhists too worship Baisakhi with zeal and jest. Hindus take sacred bath in River Ganges They pray to God for His grace. Even in parts South India this day is celebrated but with different name.
UNDERSTANDING NATURE IS ONE OF THE BEST THING WHICH WE HAVE TO LIVE WITH
Anything tangible could be observed, touched, experienced, practised, lived with, realized, consciously felt, etc. The world of persistent causes and its effects are the realities which we face in real life. It is also a reality that our mind is the focal point of our thoughts and their impact on us. Now what is mind, is it physical – a matter and energy? Mind unites us with the conscious thoughts.
In our daily life, we face many challenges. Some challenges could be overcome with sincere efforts but there are ones which persist despite our best efforts to overcome them. What to be done in latter case – we either remain thinking about the same and fritter our time and energy or accept it a hard reality and live with those challengesas a consequence of our previous Karma.
WE CAN CONNECT WITH REALITY
If mind is a reality then we can connect with our mind by proper introspection and recall our past experiences and get lesson to be utilized in real life. If the experiences were bad in nature we can effect course correction in time and space. These are the hard realities which we tend to follow.
REALITY COULD BE FOUND THROUGH INTROSPECTION THRU THE MEDIUM OF MIND
IT IS WONDER TO WATCH NATURE AND GET SOLACE FROM DISAPPOINTING SITUATIONS
In essence, through introspection, we can reach to a reality – mind is the medium to do so. Then there are other methods of knowing the truth and that is through revelation from other sources – mental image of reality of past experiences. Here the intuition or cosmic mind or vision come into play thus giving us knowledge about the reality. This reality or truth could be lived with in time and space.
ALL WANT TO HAVE MOKSHA OR LIBERATION
It is a fact that all of us want to have Moksha or attain liberation from the cycle of births and deaths but for this we have to die first. Besides we transact right Karmic deeds so attain purity in thoughts and deeds.
SCIENTIFIC OBTAINED DATA HAS UNNIVERSAL APPEAL
Then we can reach to conclusion by experiencing the data we obtain and put this data in practice through observation and through testing and then scientifically prove to be true. This scientifically tested data remains static. After going through different stages, only the facts obtained could be called as the actual fact or truthful. The scientifically obtained data remain universal.
ACCEPTING OUR PHYSICAL DISABILITIES
UNDDRSTANDING THE INTRICACIES OF NATURE MAKES OUR LIFE SIMPLE
First of all, we’ve to accept ourselves as we are while doing everything to improve ourselves physically and mentally. It is because if we remain blaming our destiny, then, we shall be making this life a virtual hell for us.
GOOD PEOPLE FACE CRITICISM
It is our common experience that while performing our day to day jobs, we would be facing criticism – sometimes health and sometimes without rhyme or reason. We’ve to take these criticisms in our stride and sincerely introspect how much improvement we can make to ourselves so escape from the unhealthy criticism. If people still criticize then we’ve to accept it and live with it all.
PURPOSE OF LIFE ON THIS EARTH
Living on this earth is not merely whiling away our time and frittering away our energies on unnatural pursuits. It is worthwhile to make healthy use of our energies and investing our resources to transact something for the wellness of the society by helping those who need our assistance. We should approach and fight the challenges of our life and tasks to be accomplished with positive approach. Then while performing our Karmic deeds, we should adopt spiritual oriented lifestyle to establish connectivity with Almighty God. In truth, purposeless life becomes a burden for us.
WHAT A REVELATION THE NATURE IS!
BEING GOOD IS NOT AGAINST ANYBODY ELSE
We should keep in mind that being good to others is a healthy practice. But if we are still ma-treated and not understood then also it is alright. No problem. Adjust with this viewpoint.
IF YOU ARE TRANS-GENDER, OR GAY OR PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED ACCEPT IT AND PROCEED
There are people who are physically or mentally challenged. If they continue thinking about their physical or mental state then there would be existential problems for these people. In this case too, accepting and proceeding in life is the only option.
PRACTICE WITH SINCERITY WHILE SURROUNDED IN THE COMPANY OF BAD CHARACTERS
Fact stands out that we are constrained to live in the neighborhood or the community of which we are a part. If we remain cribbing about the environment in which we are living then we shall not be able to live peacefully. There are two options. Either to leave such environment for good and live in some congenial environs or adjust with the environment but do not adopt their adverse practices.
ACCPTING CHALLENGES AS THESE VISIT US
THERE IS ALWAYS A RAY OF HOPE IN EVERY ADVERSITY
All of us face challenges in our lives. Nobody, however powerful, is bereft of problems in one form or other. One may have financial problems others may have health related issues. Just acceptance and living with it is the option while seeking remedial measures as required under the circumstances.
ADMITTING OUR MISTAKES
Nobody is infallible is a truth. We all commit mistakes in one form or other sometimes willfully and other times unintentionally. But admitting our mistakes and ensure that these mistakes are not repeated should be our motto. Being perfectionist may not be possible for all of us. We should realize this truth.
FULFILLING THE PROMISES MADE
If we want to command respect in the society, we’re constrained to fulfill the promises made to others since reneging or going back from the promises made may unmask our sincerity of purpose.
FEARLESS DECISIONS WHEN NEEDED
Sometimes we’re constrained to take fearless decisions since procrastination may lead us in difficult situation from where recovery may not be possible. We’ve to live with this truth.
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
Sometimes we may face awkward situation and get reprimanded for the same but other times we may get rewarded for our good deeds. We should count on our blessings and not our adverse situations. This method has to be adopted in our life to live in peace.
LIVING WITH BIRDS AND OTHER NATURAL AGENTS CAN PROVIDE US SERENITY AND PEACE
LOVE CREATES POSITIVE OUTCOMES BUT DO WE ALWAYS GET TRUE LOVE
We all aspire for true love in our lives but is our love reciprocated always. No, it is not. Then what? We’ve to accept this as an existential problem and live with it but without leaving our habit of loving others!
OUR RELATIONS AND BEHAVIOUR
At times, when our behavior with our colleagues is most respectful but we may or may not get the same respect on reciprocal basis then what despite our best to mend matters there remains chasm of misunderstanding, then what? We have to live with it all; the other option is to leave the company of such people,which may not be a better proposition.
THERE IS ALWAYS SELFISH MOTIVE IN EVERYTHING WE TRANSACT
All of us are connected with each other in one way or other. It may be in the family, in the community or on broader plane nation. We are all inter-dependent. This interrelation leads to cohesiveness and broad spectrum understanding for a better life for all. This aspect is a way of life and should never be ignored for bringing about oneness brotherly feeling in the society.
KARMA GIVES US OUR REWARD & PUNISHMENT ALWAYS
Whatever we do, it comes back to us. Doing harm to other irrationally remain haunting us till we get the result of misdemeanor. In other words, actions and reaction are equal and opposite.
WHY GOOD PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS PUNISHED?
We must have observed that good people do not give up their good habit of doing good to others despite the fact that they may or may not be treated well. This is a travesty of fact and should never be forgotten.
LESS EXPECTATIONS
If do something good for others and get nothing in return then it goes against our expectation. If this happens like this then we feel dismayed and it may impact physically and mentally. The best course of action is to do good and just forget it all. No expectation and no disappointments.
HAPPY NAVRATRI : MAY THIS NINE DAYS WONDER BESTOWS HUMANITY PEACE & PROSPERITY
JAI MAA DURGE JI
Last year the world was confronted with the problem of Covid pandemic related problems and this year it is war between Russia and Ukaraine. The consequences of this war is uncertain since Russia remain bombing Ukraine and this war may spin out of control . Today humanity wants peace and this peace could be achieved by the bountiful graces of Almighty God. Our prayer, to MOST BENEVOLENT MAA DURGE Ji, MOTHER DIVINE is to bring about peace and prosperity globally.
May the NINE DAYS WONDER called NAVRATRI deliver the humanity from uncertainty.
LET THE LOVE FLOWER WITH THE GRACE OF GODDESS DURGE MAA
JAI MAA DURGA MAA JI
LET LOVE SPROUT BETWEEN HUMANS
CHETRA NAVRATRI FESTIVAL
This Navratri from 2nd April onwards For Nine Days, A Nine Days Wonder We go ahead with our head and heart held high To celebrate the Nine Days Wonder Navratri.
Nav means nine Ratri stands for night Navratri is the festival so very well-known Wherein the devout Of all hues celebrate this festival Twice in a calendar year First, it is in the March – April, as Chaitra Navratri Thence October – November as the Shradha Navratri This festival is related to Durga Goddess Maa ‘Shakti’ with Her prowess so immense Overpowered the ferocious Demons Who maimed the hapless hermits – Sadhus Even while performing their sacred Yajunas In the process defiled the sacredness of Yajna fires.
At the trying times – so unprecedented one This time over the uncertainty is war between Russia and Ukraine Has engulfed the world at large again A sincere prayer to Thee our Goddess Durge Our dearest Mother Divine Who always answers our sincere prayers To save the humanity from uncertain future.
MAY THE GRACE OF GOD BRINGS US PEACE AND PROSPERITY
Goddess Durga in her red attires Mounted on the lion so fierce With all the weapons in her custody Which could inflict havoc on the adversary.
Legends about Navratri abounds Demon king Maheshasura worships Lord Shiva The penance was so severest That Lord Shiva had to grant him a boon of invincibility That nobody Not even the Gods could kill him Thence he starts killing innocents with impunity Then forcefully Conquered violently the Seven Lokas Including the throne of Lord Indra To eliminate demon Maheshasura Then there was confabulation between the Trinity Along with Demi-Gods too in the company To take stock of things jointly To defeat and kill this demon turned killer so brutally Created Maa Shakti The Mother with a matchless energy Or Durga, the Warrior Goddess The war between Maheshasur and Mother Divine Which lasted for Nine Days And on day Ninth she kills this evil demon Navratri symbolizes the victory of good over evil.
LET LOVE SPREAD WITH THE GRACE OF GODDESS DURGE MAA
JAI NATA JI
On day ninth which is termed as Mahanavami Nine young girls are worshipped Personifying Nine Forms of Durga Goddess These venerated young girls’ feet are washed With fresh water and given clothes and food.
Navratri too is linked with fertility of land On these days, the farmers observe the fitness of the earth By testing seed germination in the earthen pots Devotees observe fasts with rigidity For keeping ourselves neat and tidy During these days considered most holy Which keep their mind and body pure.
There is another legend King Daksha – the kind of Himalayan Kingdom He was blessed with a daughter named Uma A most beautiful one With all the traits of a princess she possessed She worshipped Lord Shiva most reverently So that he may accept her in marriage so willingly Having pleased the Lord Shiva She married Uma But against the wishes of King Dhaksha One day King Dhaksha held a grant Yajna With no invitation to Lord Shiva Uma wanted to join the Yajna And all accompanying celebrations While Lord Shiva had his own reservations She came to attend the Yajna Being attended by Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma. Besides all the deities King Dhaksha did not like her daughter’s presence She felt slighted at the treatment meted out to her in presence of all deities In utter desperation and helplessness She jumps into Agni Kund (Fire grate) and perishes The reason why we call her Sati
Lord Mahadeva (As Virbadhara) punished King Dhaksha for this heartlessness.
ON REBIRTH (As Parvati) she marries Lord Shiva again She comes to her parents’ house to stay for DAYS NINE That is why we celebrate these Nine Days as Navratri.
Legend also has it that Lord Rama Worshipped Goddess Durga’s Nine Forms For Nine Days with deep reverence On day 10th Lord Rama killed demon king Ravana This way, 10th day is celebrated as Vijaydashami,. First three days are dedicated to Durga Maa In the form of child, young girl and mature woman The three forms of womanhood Symbolizing victory of evil over falsehood Next three are dedicated to Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity Her name is Lakshimi Last three days are commemorated in the name of Goddess Saraswati The Goddess of knowledge and wisdom In snowy white dress Mounted on a white swan The Navratri is a sign of purity in all forms Let these Nine Days be observed with great reference For gaining blessings from Goddess Durga Let this Nine Days wonder Be the game-changer And rid this world of ours from precarious state of affairs Created by the Covid-19 virus And engenders peace and prosperity And adequate wellness for all and sundry This is my sincerest prayers to thee, my Mother Divine Maa Durga Ji, so benevolent Thee Come to the succor of the humanity from Novel Coronavirus Sure enough, we can bank on Thee my Divine Mother for succor
JAI MAA DURGE MAA JI
JAI MAA DURGE JI – NAVRATI CELEBRATIONS
EVERY FESTIVAL HAS LESSON OF ITS OWN
Different festivals provide the devout different lessons while the underlying message of all these festivals is to enlighten 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.
FASTING TO PURIFY MIND AND BODY
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.
BALANCE IN OUR LIFE
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.
The word NAVRATRI is composed of two syllabuses; NAV which means NINE and RATRI mean NIGHTS.
Meditation/prayers and fasting are observed by devout during these nine days. A lighter refreshment of milk made products besides fruits, if taken at all, to keep light and pure in body and mind thus helping an individual to keep the body and mind pure. This also provides the devotees’ freedom from adulteration and contamination both in body and mind besides purifying still more the eternal soul along with keeping it taint-free.
SIGNIFICANCE OF NAVRATRI
Navratri is one of the most sacred festivals that the devout celebrate. It is not merely celebrated by observing some particular rituals but the devotees live a spiritually oriented life in all manifestations. 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 in 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.
FASTING TO PURIFY BODY AND SOUL
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. 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.
The devotees observe 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
LEGEND OF NAVRATRI
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.
CONGREGATIONS FOR CELEBRATION
Besides observing fasts, devotees organize congregations in the form of fairs and also enact programs and cultural functions in the form of group dances and devotional songs in praise of Goddess Durga and beseech her blessings and she being such a benevolent Mother comes to their succor.
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.
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!
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.
Subsequently, for next three days, she is Goddess of wisdom – the Goddess Saraswati. It bestows spiritual enlightenment besides showering an individual with all-around success.
It is useful for our benefit to know the importance of each day.
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.
SIGNIFICANCE OF NINE DAYS WONDER
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.
INNER THOUGHTS 
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