By transcending the three modes of material nature associated with the body, one becomes free from birth, death, old age, and misery, and attains immortality. Bhagwad Gita.
HAPPINESS AND MISERIES
WE CANNOT BLAME OTHERS FOR OUR MISERABLE STATE
We are aware that if we eat stale food, we are bound to have stomach upset. In the same way, if we continue experiencing misery and do not make sincere effort to alleviate our predicament by performing righteous Karma, then, our miseries will multiply. These miseries can make our life miserable in real sense of terms. Living in the material world/material realm and doing nothing tangible to upgrade ourselves on virtuous pedestal can bring about more miseries, diseases and hardships. We ourselves are responsible for our happiness or miserable state. No second person is responsible for it. But we offer several alibis for being in miserable state.
WE CAN TRANSFORM OUR MODES OF MATERIAL NATURE THROUGH OUR SINCERE EFFORTS FOR ETERNAL BLISS
If we want to achieve happiness, we’ve to upgrade our modes of goodness. From Tamsic to Rajsive to Sattvic – although these modes of existence are also in realm of materialism. We can still exert to supplant or transform these from material realm to detached realm, by our righteous karma and dharma. This will help us attain God’s connectivity with peace of mind in any situation and condition. By so doing, we shall be experiencing delightfulness or total bliss. This is only be attained through our free-will and single-minded determination. Nobody else can assist more than ourselves is the moot point for attaining this.
OUR NEGATIVE THOUGHTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR OUR MISERABLE EXISTENCE
In essence, it is a fact that when we are living in miserable existence, we are entrenched in negative thoughts. With negative thoughts, we tend to have distrust, have the feeling to destroy or to harm others, even ruin a good relationship, rather than creating something unique. In the miserable mindset, we are at our destructive best. Contrarily, happiness is a positive trait. With happiness, we tend to create new things and are at our productive best. We are delightful with a heavenly feeling.
WHEN WE ARE MISERABLE, WE ARE MOST DESTRUCTIVE
While we are unhappy or miserable, we do not trust others. We smell rat at every step in our life. Trust deficit is at its peak. In this sort of scenario, we want to blame others for our situation rather than take steps for course correction.
SOME INSTANCES OF WHAT UNHAPPY ENVIRONS CAN CONTRIBUTE Unhappy environment at our homes:
Unhealthy, uncongenial and unhappy environment in home create disharmony and members of the family are suspicious of each other. Peaceful living in such surcharged environment is not possible since each member of the family looks other members with suspicion.
Work ethics in the office.
• Un-cooperative environment creates conditions for the downfall of the organisation. An office wherein there is no cooperation and doors are closed at you when you want something crucial to be done. Here each employee works at cross purpose, the productivity gets suffered since when functional ethics on the basis of cooperation is not carried out. Who is responsible for such uncongenial atmosphere, the staff members or the organizational heads, the truth is not far to seek? But truly, organization as a whole in such skeptic environs gets doomed; now or after sometimes.
• Unhappy environment creates suspicion between the work-force. An organization head who isolates his staff member and keeps his staff members away from productive interaction is an enemy of such an organization. Ultimately such an organization meets its end sooner rather than later.
• For smooth functioning in the office, one of the basic requirement is integrity or reliability. Each one of the staff members have to be reliable or trustworthy for optimum productivity.
• Honesty & Sincerity. Sincerity is prerequisite trait in getting things done smoothly. Insincerity leads to bitterness and bitterness to internal bickering which impacts the outcome in the office.
• Undisciplined work-force. With negative environs in the office, there is indiscipline in the workforce. There is atmosphere of distrust, leading to productive graph going down-South. Need is to create unsuspecting environs and sow the seeds of cooperation and amity.
• Accountable environment. Environment of accountability happens when everybody contributes for the overall growth of the organization. Individual accountable for his/her assigned task cannot be overlooked but it cannot do much in isolation. One drop of rain cannot contribute anything. It will just get sucked in the sand of time after reaching its destination!
COUNTRIES WITH NEGATIVE & UNHAPPY DISPOSITION OF ITS RULERS:
With unhappy environment prevailing amongst the ruling elites or politicians (who rule a country), creates suspicion, distrust not only amongst the ruling class but also with other countries. What is happening in Ukraine and Russia is a bleak case in point. The negative environment created by distrust is disturbing and may lead to WW III. In this, peace is the casualty becoming a cause of deaths and destruction of the hapless citizens.
A HAPPY PERSON FIRST OF ALL BELONGS TO HIMSELF & THEN TO OTHERS
A person with balanced approach in approach is self-aware. He knows his potentials and weaker areas. By knowing himself ins and outs, he can adjust with the society and contribute his mite in whatever was he is capable of. In other words, before becoming a useful members, he, first of all becomes familiar with himself – knowing himself fully. Knowing others is impossible without knowing your own self.
WE SHARE WITH OTHERS WHAT WE HAVE IN ABUNDANCE
If we have self-love, we share the same with others. If we do not love our own self then what we’ve to give others? Nothing! In other words, everything starts with us and ends with us only. Our neighborhood, our community and all others put together happen because of us. If we’re not in sound health and at peace with ourselves then we can only be spectators and cannot contribute anything for anybody since you can share with others what you have! Same is true with God’s connectivity. We can connect with God only when we fulfill all the conditions; spiritual as well Karma and Dharma. It happens due to our sincere efforts. I am of the opinion no via-media can help us in achieving God’s connectivity, rather we are the effective conduit in seeking and achieving this goal.
SOME PEOPLE DO NOT CHANGE THEIR THOUGHTS ATANY STAGE OF LIFE
It is a travesty of fact that some people do not change their mindsets at any stage of life; not even at their deathbed? Though knowing fully well that they would be leaving the earth’s sojourn yet not leaving the insipient thoughts in the mindset is surprising! Worrying about the present life while leaving the mortal body is surprising to say the least? It goes to show that the miseries or unhappy disposition we have cultivate during our lifetime remains till our death if we do not do something to get rid of these here and now otherwise it would be too late. I say it would be too late since ‘nobody has ever seen tomorrow’!! We’ve to cultivate happiness as a necessary component in our existence and dump the miseries deep down the earth; the sooner it is done, better for us.
CONSOLIDATION OF RELATIONSHIIP BTWEEN BROTHER & SISTER
BHAI DOOJ
PRAYERS FOR CONSOLIDATION OF RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BROTHER AND SISTER
Bhai Dooj is a festival to consolidate relationship Between the brother and sister Wherein a Tikka is put on the forehead of brother By sister with utmost love and affection With the solemn prayers to Almighty God For his bountiful graces to both The sister applies Tikka on the forehead of her brother With immense reverence Prayers on her lips for the long life of his brother To which the brother promises to be beside her In all her good and not so good days in her life The parents are the ones Whose blessings are there on both brother & sister.
This being an important annual festival of repute Which cements the relationship between the brother and sister Hence our prayers too are there to God To bestow this relationship still more blessings So that there exists a solid bond of relationship between the two so very important relationships.
The sisters should apply Talak On the photo/statue of Lord Krishana forehead So as to make the relationship of two most sacred And then on the forehead of her brother So as to make this occasion a sacred one.
BHAI DOOJ : A RELATIONSHIP MOST SIGNIFICANT
LEGENDS BEHINDBHAI DOOJ
There is a popular belief that after killing the evil Demon Narkasura by Lord Krishna visited his sister named Subhadra who received Lord Krishna with warmth. There is a legend that Lord Krishna had killed many demons who killed innocent people and spoiled the sacredness of Yajnas of the saints/hermits. She received him with love and warmth since he had exterminated a demon who used to create mayhem and spared none – men and women alike. Subhadra applied Tilak on the forehead of her brotber, Lord Krishana.
RELATIONSHIP OF LORD OF DEATH LORD YAMA & YAMI
This day is also to remember the relationship which Lord Yama (The God of Death) and his sister Yami (The Yamuna river). This day is also termed as Yamadvitiya owing to this. Such is the importance of this day.
For living our lives in peace and harmony both at home and in the community we are living, it is essential that we consolidate our relationships within the family and outside the family fabric. For this, we have father’s Day, Mother’s Day etc. For cementing the relationship and solidifying the same we have Rakhi Festival and also Bhai Dooj.This sacred act helps in consolidating relationship between sister and brother.
Today is the festival of Bhai Dooj wherein the sisters apply Tikka, consisting of a mix of flowers and sandoor (vermilion) on the foreheads of their brothers suffusing with love and affection after sincere prayers to Almighty God for His bountiful graces to both.
This festival is celebrateed on the second lunar day of Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) in the Vimrami Samvat (Hindu Calendar). This year BHAI DOOJ is being celebrated on 26th and 27th October 2022.
This festival is celebrated in the entire North India and falls on the second day of Vikrami Samvat New Year – the first day is celebrated as Goverdhan Puja wherein the people worship the Goverdhan Parvat (Mountain), situated South of Virandavan and Gokul (U.P) where Lord Krishana had created his Maya during his childhood period. Govardhan Parvat had saved the people of Gokal and the surrounding areas from the severe floods created by Rain God, Lord Indira. The complete area was inundated with flood water. Lord Krishana had saved the entire populace by taking them inside the Goverdhan Parvat after Lord Krishna picked had picked up part of Govardhan Parvat on a single little finger. In West Bengal, this Bhai Dooj is celebrated one day after Kali Pooja. In Maharashtra, it is termed as Bhai Beej.
SIGNIFICANCE OF BHAI DOOJ
The festival of Bhai Dooj is considered important since it consolidates the relationship between brother and sister. The parents too participate in giving their blessings for the long life and prosperity of their offspring. Even in South India, this day is celebrated by different names.
On this festival, the brothers to their sisters house (if they are married) and the sister apply Tilak on the fore heads of their brothers. The sisters also offer them sweets and make tasty meals for them. Unmarried sisters apply Tilaks on their brothers after worshipping their family deities and other deities.
THE PURPOSE OF CELEBRATING BHAI DOOJ
The main purpose of celebrating the festival is to strengthen the bond of relationship between the brothers and the sisters. The brothers promises his sisters to protect them from any misfortune and the sisters pray to Almighty God for the safety, security and long life of their brothers. All the members of the family await this day with enthusiasm; especially brothers and sisters as this is also construed as the family reunion for some of them.
The following is the purpose of this festival:-
Brothers make a solemn promise to their sisters to bestow safety and security of the sisters against any misfortune that may befall them in life.
The sisters prays to God with all the sincerity for gracing his brothers with long life, peace and prosperity.
The parents wish the both the sisters and the brother all the best in life. Their blessings are always there for both.
The brothers give their sisters gifts as per their capabilities.
This being the annual festival after Diwali, it has special significance to cement the relationship in the families.
Those brothers and sisters who are far away and are not able to come to their homes, the sisters pray to moon for its blessings for granting long life, prosperity and peace to their brothers.
During this festival too, there is no religion tag. The girls from Hindu religion put Tikka on their brethren of other religions just to consolidate the feeling of togetherness and brotherhood. It is similar to Rakhi festival.
MY SINCERE PRAYERS ON THE PIOUS OCCASION OF DEEPAVALI
In essence, before wishing all well, I extend my sincere prayers to Lord Rama, who is embodiment of peace and prosperity to bestow peace and harmony in the war-torn Ukraine. The deaths and destruction which has been caused should stop forthwith and sanity may prevail on the warring countries as war does not solve any problem but it makes the problems more complex at all fronts.
When we discuss about wars, it makes it amply clear that the guns and missiles including the SWARMS OF DRONES (With huge maneuverability and precision) wrecks havoc on both the sides. These weapons of destruction not only kill humans but also humanity thus turning us worst than enemy, insensitive !
LESSONS FROM DEEPAVALI
On Physical Plane
We all should adhere and obey the Nature (Prakriti), otherwise Mother Nature would be unsparing. We should also obey the Laws of Nature and should not pollute it.
On Aesthetic Plane
Lord Rama personified beauty in his character in all forms and formulations. There was a rare attraction in him which endeared him to all his subjects in his RAM RAJYA.
On Mind Plane
Lord was the master of his mind and senses. We should also make concerted efforts in becoming master of our mind.
On use of Head & Heart.
Lord Rama showcased compassion for his subjects and met the needs of his subjects as and when needed. If we follow this trait then there will not be any differences in any society.
On LOVE Plane
He loved all his subjects and his relatives alike from the inner recesses of his heart. Also love ignites the feeling of unity in diversity. This trait we all should follow and ensure amity and fellow feelings in the society.
An epitome Fair-play in awarding justice
While awarding punishment and reward, he was very judicious and forthright For knowing the pulse of his people, he used to visit Ayodhya’s streets in disguise in the darkness of night so as to know the real state of his subjects. When he heard a washer-man scolding his wife and telling that he suspects her fidelity / loyalty and tauntingly informed her that he is not the person who can keep her after knowing about her disloyalty to him. He quoted the example of Sita Maa’s stay at Lanka, therefore, suspicion could arise! Hearing this, Lord Rama felt very sad and decided to send Sita Ji to jungles.
On physical grace and power to eliminate evil from the society
He showcased his prowess by killing ferocious demands who used to kill the human beings and spoiled the sacred fires of the hermits while they were performing havan rituals. We should also try to cultivate good qualities and remove the evil tendencies which may make residency in us.
Sincerity and Righteousness to the core
Lord Rama epitomized the traits of sincerity and righteousness in his life which could be proved from his way of ruling his subjects and dealing with Sadhu Samaj and others with compassion.
On fighting Evil
As the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, he annihilated ferocious demons who created mayhem and disharmony in the society.
An epitome of sincerity and honesty
His hallmark of honesty and sincerity is well-known in his words and deeds and in this he followed the principles of his ancestors – Raghukul reet sadha chali aaie paran jaye par bachan na jaye (It is the custom of the Raghukul to fulfill the promise made even at the cost of life.
On being obedient
Lord Rama was an obedient son and obeyed the orders of his father King Dharashtha without any reservation. Our youth should follow this Lord Ram’s example to lead their lives.
Lord Ram followed spiritual existence throughout his life
Lord Rama had a constant spiritual growth and development which ensured purity in his thoughts and deeds thus leading a truthful living besides being enlightened soul. We all should follow Lord Ram example for leading a spiritual oriented existence, full of spiritual way of living.
Lord Ram on mental plane
Lord Ram showcased his exemplary attributes through experimentation with wisdom and forthrightness. We should also have such attributes in our life.
Lord Rama was upright in his demeanor in his attitude and behavior. We should also follow these traits.
DEEPAVALI
Deepavali means row of wicks or divas Lighted ones A festival of lights Spreading light And with it all knowledge Thus removing darkness Or ignorance Which remain hidden within Willy-nilly stops our march into inner domains Thus coming in the path Of our self-realization A roadblock to our spiritual realization Spiritual realization is a supreme intelligence Within all of us for evolution To ignite the spark of Divinity And making our life a web of contradictions Preventing our life to become a real celebration.
Whence we reflect on the life of Lord Rama He personifies obedience, loyalty & discipline of highest order He obeyed the orders of his father Ayodhaya King Dhashratha To go on exile for fourteen years long! Spent these many years in the jungles Enduring all the sufferings Posed by the elements in the jungle so hostile Infested with demons and animals so vicious Away from the life’s comforts of palace.
Does the brood of this generation have the same sort of traits? Of exemplary obedience, tolerance, patience, perseverance And all the noblest ideals These righteous ideals spring from sound upbringing Under the care of competent master and exceptional parenting.
Thence, so our children can learn that our life is a roller-coaster Of good and bad experiences They should learn to live & adjust in any environs they are put Which Lord Rama, Lakshmana & Maa Sita faced Who together challenged the challenges head-on And came out as a winner at last After killing Demon King Ravana Who though was Shiva’s ardent Bbakta Possessed huge knowledge yet did not use it at all But was drunk with pride and egocentric tendencies Ultimately proved to be an epitome of evil in all forms.
Our youth just wilt under pressure while facing challenges They should learn to be adaptive to change Rather change should not change their determination Lord Rama’s example shows us the pathways We’ve only to follow his footsteps with utter earnestness.
The way Lord Rama set an example As to how best to respect the voice of his subjects while he was crowned as a King of Ayodhya There is a clear message to us all That is why rule was termed as Ram Rajya He commanded huge respect from his subjects And thus was known for his justice and impartiality Treated his subjects and his close relatives equally While administrating justice as and when situation arose Where everybody enjoyed respect and freedom to air their views Bereft of any fear or coercion There was no instance wherein he had shown discrimination.
On coming to know that there was A whispering campaign going on About the purity of his consort Sita Staying in Lanka of demon king Ravana While he came to know of this all He ordered that Sita Maa be sent to jungles Though he suffered much pain for doing so Our justice system too should learn From the justice and fair-play during Rama Rajya.
Then one of the finest lessons which we get from his life Is about fulfilling promises made while living our life He believed in the dictum: ‘Ragukul Reet Sadha Chali Aayi Pran Jaye Par Bachan Na Jaye’ Meaning, There is a tradition in Raghukul They prefer death rather than not fulfilling promise given We should also fulfill all the promises made And lead a righteous existence.
The Diwali day begins with fond prayers To Lord Rama for his bounties and graces Along with blessings of peace and prosperity.
Shri Ram, Maa Sita with brother Lakshmana Had come back to Ayodhya To their own subjects and relatives so close After 14 years of exile After finishing the evils In the form of Demon King Ravana.
A lesson for us who with everything Graced by our Creator We all should be thankful to Almighty God for His graces And live a life of satisfaction Difficulties will be there in our existence But these are to be surmounted with determination And not swept under the carpet We live a life without any expectation From others, with abounding satisfaction.
While celebrating Diwali festival Let’s pray for peace and prosperity for all.
HAPPY DEEPAVALI TO ALL
Literally, the word DEEPVALI contain two syllables meaning; deep – Wick light and vali means a row, put together it means a row of lights of earthen wicks.
After the end of Lord Ram’s 14 long years of exile, winning over the ‘Sone Ki Lanka – GOLDEN LANKA’ and killing the demon King Ravana; with it all his evil Karmic deeds; Lord Rama, accompanied with his brother Lashmana and consort Sita and all his followers including Hanumanji .
CONTRIBUTION OF LORD HANUMAN JI IN BATTLE AGAINST DEMON KING RAVANA IS UNIQUE IN EVERY WAY
Lord Hanumanji has a exceptional reservoir of strength, knowledge and intelligence, courageous but without even a touch of pride, an epitome of Bhakti and Shakti. Despite all these traits, he considered himself to be the humble servant of Lord Rama,
LIFE OF LORD RAMA
In essence, we should always keep in mind the most compassionate and benevolent life of Lord Rama while he ruled Ayodhya or while he was told to spent his 14 years ,on the bidding of his father King Dhashratha, in exile with simple and austere lifestyle, living on forest fruits and herbs; bereft of any palace comforts. It is all very unique and worth emulation.
HE SUFFERED HARDSHIPS OF JUNGLE LIFE WHILE IN EXILE
Following Lord Ram’s life, we can also imbibe humility, compassion and above all humane touch. We should also learn from his adaptive lifestyle – from palace life to jungle life while in exile.
He along with Lord Hanuman Ji and his monkey forces fought a battle with demon forces of Demon King Ravana. Killing demon king Ravana , who characterized evil in all forms and manifestations, is a moot point in Epic Ramayana which should serve a lesson for us humans that evil cannot survive indefinitely. Whenever evil crosses all limits, Lord Vishnu incarnates to annihilate the same and ensures writ of justice and fair-play amongst the humanity.
LORD RAMA’S WELCOME ON ARRIVAL AT AYODHYA
When Lord Rama reached Ayodhya, he was accorded a rousing reception/ welcome by the happy populace there. They welcomed all those who accompanied Lord Rama by lighting their homes and streets of Ayodhya with earthen wicks. The emperor Bharata, coroneted Lord Rama as the king of Ayodhya which proves his credentials as the righteous and virtuous one.
A STERLING EXAMPLE OF OBEDIENCE
The king of Ayodhaya Dhashratha, had made a solemn promise to his wife Kalkkeyi to ask for two boons or promises whenever she felt a need of the same. She had saved him from a certain critical situation. While there was a confirmed news that the king wanted Ramji to be coroneted as the king, Manthra the maid servant of Queen KaIkeyi poisoned the ears of the queen Kaikeyi and exhorted her to ask for realization of two promises made to her by the king.
PROMISES MADE BY KING DHASHRATHA BE FULFILLED
First the coronation for Bharata (Kaikeyi’s son) and second, 14 years’ exile for Rama (the son of Kaushilya). As there was the motto in the family since ages together: – Raghukul Reet Sada Chali Aayi Puran Jaaye Par Bachan Na Jaye (There is a tradition in Raghukul that their members will prefer death rather than to break a promise), so Ayodhya king had to concede the demands of Kaikeyi though with heavy heart/resentfully.
LIFE OF BHARATA
After hearing about the turn of events (Coronation for Bharata and exile for him), Rama did not say even a single word. Contrarily, he put on the simplest dress to depart for exile, thus obeying the directive of his father without raising objections or reservation. Sitaji (consort of Ramji and Lakshamana (his brother – the son of Sumitra) too accompanied Ram Ji. This is a fine example of obedience of the orders of elders in the family. We ought to imbibe this fine trait of Lord Rama and thus follow a righteous path in our lives too.
FINE EXAMPLE OF COHESION IN THE FAMILY
When Bharata came to know about the 14 years’ exile for his elder brother Rama and coronation for himself, he felt very disappointed. He flatly refused to be crowned as a king of Ayodhya in the absence of elder brother Rama and Lakshmana. No arguments of any sort could consol him. He thought this act of being emperor as adharam (irreligiosity). He even went to the jungles in order to persuade Rama and Lakshmana to come back to Ayodhaya but Rama did not agree to this because of the promise of his father. The meeting between Lord Rama and Bharata is termed as Bharat Milap. He could not convince Lord Rama to come back to Ayodhya and rule.
LOVE BETWEEN BROTHERS
Finally, Bharata extracted a promise from Ramji that on his return back from 14 years’ exile, he will take the reigns as an emperor. Such was the love between the brothers – an unparalleled one. Rama’s love for Bharta was also an example that ought to be followed by brothers now for ensuring goodwill in our families. Wealth or any other consideration should not be an impediment for a good relations in our families.
IF KNOWLEDGE IS NOT USED WITH WISDOM IT WILL NOT SERVE ANY PURPOSE
DAWN OF JOY ARISES WHEN WE IMBIBE ALL THE LESSONS FROM THE SCRIPTURES
Ravana, the Demon King, was most learned Demon King. Ravana, the son of Vishwashrava (A Brahman Rishi) and his mother Kaikasi (from a demon family) was a scholarly person who had the knowledge of Vedas and other scriptures at his finger tips but he is taken in negative light because he did not make use of this knowledge for the benefit of demon clan. But there was a demonic trait in him that he was intoxicated with his prowess and knowledge. So much so he was influenced by his egocentric traits that he stooped to the sordid act of abducting Sita Mata the consort of Lord Rama – by deceit, an evil act by any reckoning. It goes to prove that if we do not use the knowledge with sagacity, we sure will fall prey to unethical karma leading to our sure downfall.
KUBER PUJA – THE BEARER OF WEALTH
Kuber is the step brother of Ravana and is considered as the treasurer of wealth. It is believed amongst the devout that worship of Lord Kubera, especially on the auspicious day of Diwali, brings affluence and progress in business. Just as we can have fresh water from the fresh water reservoir, we can have Lord Kubera’s blessings for wealth and prosperity. If we pray with sincereity and work hard for that we can get Kuber’s bounties. Meaning, he bequeaths wealth if we sincerely do our karma as per the natural laws. He graces those who resort to righteous karma and possess right attitude in life. Kubera pooja is done on Diwali Day so that there is sufficiency of everything for meeting the needs of our family.
GODDESS LAKSHMI & LORD GANESHA POOJA
Diwali is considered incomplete without first inviting the Lord Ganesha because He is an embodiment of good beginning and removes obstacles besides being the Lord of Wisdom. Goddess Lakshmi represents wealth and well being. On the auspicious day of Diwali, both the deities share a single altar thus ensuring blessings of the both. The former is taken as Lordess of wealth and the latter as the giver of prosperity.
GAMBLING ON DIWALI DAY
A legend has it that on Diwali Day Goddess Parvati played dice with Lord Shiva and He ordained that anyone who gambled on this day, prosperity will smile on such a person. This tradition continues even today. But some unscrupulous / unethical people just gamble away their homes and hearths on this day and have to fend for themselves. This is bad. Tradition is alright, but excess of everything is bad should be kept in mind.
TRADITION MARRYING WITH MODERNITY
It should never be forgotten that when tradition marries with modernity, the celebration is double whammy. It may be the celebration of festivals or any other day important individually, it gives us feeling of wellness for our fellow beings. But this celebration should never be individualistic in nature. There is more credence to celebration when all feel happy and satiated. May it be celebration of Diwali, Christmas Day, Eid or any other religious day – when all accompany us, celebration becomes more meaningful and eventful in true sense of terms.
NO CRACKERS PLEASE THIS YEAR TOO!
Due to the extreme pollution caused due to heavy smog cause due to burning of rice stubble and its waste. This pollution in the atmosphere becomes the cause of lung related diseases.
There are several ways of celebrating Deepvali. It is lighting our home with candles, earthen wicks etc. But cracker bursting and spoiling the atmosphere is too bad. Therefore, care ought to be taken that we should not all use crackers since these results in pollution which becomes cause for lung related diseases.
Lo and behold! We give more weight To dark-side Of an event Happening around A trouble-creator Gets more traction Than a trouble-shooter Thus creating negative environs Sucking the younger generations The most vulnerable ones Under its bad influence Mistake lies in over-stretching a slip-up Rather than giving prominence To good doer For spreading the fragrance of sound message So that goodness is transmitted from one to all.
We can wash away the stains of our negative thoughts By using our inner potentials Which remain dormant Thus gets wasted Thus fault lies with us Whether to make use the hidden treasure Or let it go out of action bereft of any use. Leading a spiritual ways of living Gives us insight how best to maintain a healthy balance In all the situations and conditions And not get bogged down Under the weight of our own contradictions.
WE PUT MORE RELIANCE ON NEGATIVITY
In essence, it has been observed that we give more credence to negative mindset than the positive one. It has been observed that a student in a class having very good track record get less traction or attention than a one who is trouble creator and reflects his bad traits in one way or other. Giving more credibility to the negative traits remains our sticking point which generates negativity in our most impressionable youth.
MISTAKE LIES IN OUR NATURE OF EDUCATION AND LAX DISCIPLINE
Importantly, mistake lies in over-stretching a mistake rather than highlighting a good deeds of an individual. Sincere individuals are neglected but bad-doers are given more time and space. By so doing, we hear more negative oriented traits rather than the positive ways of thinking and acting. We must have heard younger lots using unprintable abusive language. This seeps into the psyche of the impressionable minds of our youth thus creating negative environs around them.
THE NEGATIVITY GENERATED BY FREELY AVAILABLE NEGATIVE CONTENTS IN NET CONNECTIVITY AND OTHER FORMS OF MEDIA
Fact stands out, fast changing lifestyle has deeply impacted the thinking of our younger generation. In this politics, the media, formal and informal institutions of our society including internet connectivity and cinema etc have also adversely impacted the general masses and with it our youth cannot remain immune to these negative trends.
LURED MORE BY MORE NON-RESTRICTIVE APPROACH WE FALL PREY TO NEGATIVE ORIENTED EXISTENCE
We all want freedom of expression, freedom of movement, freedom to follow our religious beliefs and beliefs including every other form of freedoms including, of course, the freedom to barge into others private affairs!! Seeking all sorts of freedoms with little or no modicum of sense of discipline is appalling and creating disproportional horrendous situation in every society.
HOW BEST TO DEAL WITH THE NEGATIVE THOUGHTS
In Bhagwad Gita it has rightly been said that we have the power to be our own friend or the folly to become our own enemy. Therefore, we are responsible for our good and bad thoughts and deeds. No one can overly influence our thoughts process till such time we allow them willingly.
We should negate the negative thoughts and imbibe positivity by following the following points:-
SPIRITUAL ORIENTATION CAN HELP US IMMENSELY IN CULTIVATING POSITIVITY
If we follow a spiritual way of existence, it will bestow us calmness, provide us a balance in physical, social and spiritual aspects of our existence. A spiritually oriented person is compassionate towards the needs of others, that person is tranquil and composed, is value lead, does his duties sincerely, respects others and finally maintains inner-connectivity. A spiritual oriented person is like a shock-absorber and does not lose his equanimity in any situation and condition.
AS FAR AS POSSIBLE AVOID THE NEGATIVE COMPANY
The adage, ‘A man is known by the company he keeps’ stands the test of time. We are in fact influenced by the circle of friends. If we have friends with positive traits, we shall also be imbibing all their traits. Contrarily, if we our friends’ circle is with those having unethical and immoral orientation, then, we shall also be influenced by them. Therefore, as far as possible, we have to avoid people with negative characteristics.
LITERARY BOOKS CAN INFLUENCE US IMMENSELY
We can go through books or browse net connectivity with positive thoughts. The books and other literary write-ups are the treasures of prominent thinkers and philosophers which can re-orient our thoughts and can shape our destinies accordingly.
OUR GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT IS A CONTINUOUS PROCESS
It should always be kept in mind that our growth and development is a continuous process. For a holistic growth, we’ve to keep our mind and ears open. It cannot happen in isolation.
COMMITMENT TO OURSELVES
One person to whom we can approach easily and without any strings attached is our own person/our own self. For this to be possible, it is necessary that we keep our inner-connectivity block-free is through our morally upright mind. Positive commitment to our own self can open vistas of opportunities for a holistic growth.
WHENEVER A NEGATIVE THOUGHT VISITS US IT COULD BE WARD-OFF BY ADOPTING DETACHMENT ATTITUDE
Importantly, whenever any bad thought comes in our mind, it could be stopped or keep at bay by the method of ‘neti-neti’ ‘Not this, not this.. This is a Vedic analysis of negation of a negative thought entering our mind thus help us keeping ourselves away from negativity.
OUR OWN VALUE AND WORTH IN RELATION TO OUR PURPOSE OF OUR EXISTENCE
Interestingly, we go whole-hog in accumulating wealth in order to enhance our stature in the society. Sometimes we follow corrupt practices in order to acquire affluence. By doing so, we tend to have ego-centric tendencies. The best way is to cultivate and lead a sincere and balance in our demeanor with no ego to tar our way of thinking and acting.
INTERNALIZING MAKES A HUGE DIFFERENCE
When we internalize, we remain immune to all the toxic happenings which are going on around us. Internalizing keeps us away from the din and fury around us and keep us cool and composed in every way – A huge feeling of contentedness and bliss.
Conclusively, we can say that negative and positive thoughts are the two sides of the same coin; which one we want to follow depends upon our will and wish but accountability for following each one of these lies solely on us only.
HAPPY KARVA CHAUTH : A FESTIVAL TO MAKE LOVE BOND STRONGER & ENDURING BETWEEN HUSBAND & WIFE
SIGNIFICANCE OF MARRIAGE AS AN INSTITUTION
It has rightly been said that marriages are made in heaven and solemnized on the earth thus proving that the relationship between spouses is considered sacred one.
In Rig-Veda, it has rightly been said: At the time of marriage the woman should preferably choose a man who likes her most and is delighted to see her. Parents should give freedom to the young girl to choose her life partner through the institution of Svayamvara, which literally means self choosing of a husband. Therefore, the relationship between two spouses is considered most significant.
In Sikhism, the marriage is considered to be Anand Karaj (Act towards happiness) which is introduced by Sikh Guru Amar Das Ji. The act of marriage should bring about happiness, peace and prosperity of the spouses along with the family.
In Bhagwad Gita Lord Krishna says: I am the same to all beings, and my love is ever the same; but those who worship me with devotion, they are in me and I am in them. For if even one who does evil for sometime but laments his folly; were to worship me with all his soul, he must be considered righteous, because of his righteous way of living.
Bible too gives immense significance to the relationship between husband and wife and says: Marriage between husband and wife is union between husband and wife, they are required to live together in unity of mind and for a common purpose. Bible
RELATIONS BETWEEN HUSBAND AND WIFE
Festivals in all forms & manifestations are plenty in number Some are celebrated on the onset of pleasant season Others in the memory of famous personages Some to solidify relationships between love ones While others are celebrated being of National importance But there are the ones Which are of immense significance And stand for consolidation of interpersonal relationships Between the partners in the family – 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 But, of course, with attached duties and obligations Which differ based on religions and cultures Wherein the spouses Unite to fulfill a common purpose of keeping afloat the interpersonal relationships With sanctified and formal biological relations As per the cultural modes and traditions Unite to fulfill a common purpose Of procreation To keep the civilization ticking And then under parents’ care steady evolution Along with bringing up their children in the best way they can 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.
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/decorated While Chauth means day fourth A festival falling on fourth day of Krishna Paksh.
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.
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 for them 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 – partners with a huge difference To care of their family effectively With a common objective of transferring traditional modes To make the family fabric a rock-solid one 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 but suffused with love & affection.
LET THE LOVE BETWEEN SPOUSES REMAIN ENDURING
LET THE LOVE BETWEEN HUSBAND & WIFE INCREASE FOR WELLNESS PREVAIL FOR 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 tolerating or facing entire difficulties while observing strictest fast.
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.
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 materials (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 difficult rituals 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 s 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 prayedto Almighty God 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
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.
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.
LORD RAMA IS THE EPITOME OF TRUTH AND RIGHTEOUSNESS
Good Karmic deeds leads us to the highest pedestal in our life but bad Karmic deeds brings about our downfall ultimately. The Truth and fair-play wins ultimately.
VIJAY DASHMI : ABOUT THE VICTORY OF GOOD OVER EVIL
The most sacred day of all festivals we celebrate With a lot of fervor And learn lessons so exemplary That evil in any form cannot have its sway always 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 for elderly immense reverence That an offspring should profusely be possessing For the subjects and the parents most adoring.
Lord Rama left for exile, leaving everything in Ayodhya When his father King 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 putting her own life in jeopardy 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 And coaxed Kakai the crown for her son Shri Bharata And 14 years exile for Shri Rama.
Shri Ramji, as expected Accepted exile for fourteen long years And that too without slightest reluctance He embraced the simple life 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 Along with brother Lakshmana too accompanied Shri Rama.
The demon king Ravana King of Sri Lanka With an evil intent And with utter deception, abducted Sita Maa The loving consort of Shri Rama Kept her in his garden called Ashok Vatika Exhorting Sitaji to marry him Sita Mata, being an ideal wife Of an ideal husband – Shri Rama Sita Maa spurned his proposal with a disdain it deserved above all Ravana, despite his knowledge of Vedas And one of the fondest Bhaktas of Lord Shiva Ruined his name and fame Along with the knowledge he had had thus attained Over a period of time With his acts so highly wicked 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 Including his brother 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 Burn it out, 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 Overflowing with peace, full of tolerance, a feeling of goodwill for all, 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.
HAPPY VIJAYADASHAMI / DUSSEHRA (5th October 2022)
Vijayadashami or Dushehra or Dushara or Dashara is one of the most prominent Hindu festivals of repute and is celebrated at the end of Navratri. It is an annual feature – 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.
Similarly, Dushara is derived from two syllables: Dus means evil or bad and hara means to destroy or to remove – by its combination, we deduce Dushara as a day which we observe as a sign of removal of evil from our midst. There is, in fact, a lesson for us all – the forces representing evil will lose ultimately.
Reasons for its celebration in the Eastern and Northern states of India:-
Dussehra Marks the end of Durga Puja wherein the devout remember Goddess Durga Maa after She ammojo;ated 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 populace.
Dussehra also marks the end of Navratri, represented by Nine Devis with different traits with unlimited power and elegance. 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 and was brought up by the king.. 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 show to the masses at large that the evil ends ultimately.
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.
After Dusheshra people start preparation for Dipawali – 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.
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), 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 (Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Gujarat), people install their deities and immerse the same on Vijaydashmi. Lord Rama and Goddess Durga are worshiped. 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.
LESSONS FROM VIJAYDASHMI
• However powerful the evil doers may be they all meet their end ultimately. Demon King Ravana was a most powerful one with knowledge of Vedas besides being one of the foremost devotees of Lord Shiva, yet, when he stooped low by abducting Sita Maa, he met his end due to bad Karmic deeds.
• We all should obey the laws of nature and live our life accordingly.
• Lord Rama personified righteousness, known for impartiality while imparting justice, obedient son of his parents (Accepts proceeding to 14 years exile when told by his father (Ayodhaya King Dashratha) and above all he did everything to end evil from the society and establish rule of justice and evenhandedness.
• Truth wins in the long run.
• Finally, the ultimate lesson which we get from VIJAYDASHMI is that we cannot escape from our KARMA. Good Karmic deeds bring us good tidings and bad karmic deeds takes away everything which we have earned by way of our good Karma.
GANDHI JI : A GREAT VISIONARY AND APOSTLE OF PEACE
While there persists uneasy calm in the world today, the ideals for which Gandhiji stood for are more relevant now than ever. When the threats of use of ultimate weapon of mass destruction are being hurled by some countries, there is a crying need for peace globally. Gandhian thoughts of non-violence and Satyagraha (mobilization of masses by non-use of force) could help alleviate the situation and save the humanity from destructive path the world is heading. First it was the fear of Covid-19 pandemic (man-made or natural), and now the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine which may engulf the world as a whole in uncertainty and hopelessness. It has caused food shortage, price hike of petroleum products etc. but there is no sight of an end of this war despite large scale deaths and destruction of men and material. The UNO, seemingly, is not able to do much to stop the ongoing war therefore, the ideals and ideas espoused by Bapuji, Nelson Mandela, Winston Churchill, Abraham Loncoln, Mother Taresa and many others. The more we follow their ideas/ideals, the more secure the world would be today.
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 15th 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.
Importantly, there are so many renowned rulers who ruled different nations- some with iron hand while others 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 psyche of our people because of his rarest of rare contributions with universal appeal.
Born on 2nd 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).
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.
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.
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.
INNER THOUGHTS 
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