AarshaVani-March2019

Aarsha Vani
(Voice of Sanatana Dharma)
March 2019 Volume: 5 Issue: 02
GURUVĀṆI
‘Bharatiya Dharma did not teach
philosophy only. It has
propounded valor to vanquish
evil forces surrounding oneself.
The Rudradhyaya of Yajurveda
spelled this quite distinctly. Siva
shall perform chivalrous dance
in every soldier driving enemies
out. Else, we can't stay safe.
Many forces attempting to
destabilize the country are again
coming to the forefront. We all
should standby the brave soldiers
and pronounce our moral
support at this hour of need.
– Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE Dear Readers,

Namaste. With your patronage,
Title Page#
1 Bhava! Harā! Mṛḍā! Śivā! 1 ‘Aarshavani’ is in its fifth year. We take
2 Siva Padam - Hē Viśvanātha! Kāśī patē! 2 this opportunity to express our
3 nīlakaṇṭhēśvara - kāntārthāmala mūrti! 2 gratitude for your continuous support.
4 Traditions – Fulfilments – March 2019 – Maha 3 Maha Sivaratri is one of the major
Sivaratri Special festivals celebrated across the Hindu
5 Garuḍa Mahā Purāṇa 5 diaspora all over the world. This issue
6 Major Festivals in This Month 6 features interesting articles about Siva
7 Śiva Himself is ‘Pan̄cāyatanaṁ’ 7
Tattva and Kalyana. Along with regular
8 The Eternal - Ālayas – Attacks by Invaders 8
series such as 'Garuda Mahapurana' and
9 Śrī Sūktam 9
'Sri Adi Sankara Jnana Yagnam', this
10 Śiva jñānaṁ - Bāla Śiva 10
year's 'Rushipeetham Puraskaram' is
11 Spectacular Moments In Śiva Pārvatī Kaḷyāṇaṁ 12
12 Śrī Ādi Śaṅkara Jñāna Yajñaṁ - Bhaja Gōvindam 13
announced. We request our readers to
13 Hindu Dharma – Form, Nature and Effect 14
encourage children to read/participate
14 Sanatana Dharma Around the World 14 in 'Children's Corner', as this has been
15 Children’s Corner – Bala Siksha 15 started for them to inculcate spirituality,
Vedic Mathematics - Sūtrās 16 arouse passion about the vast treasure
16 The Mahabharata True Story from Sage 17 of knowledge present in Sanatana
Veda Vyasa - Siva Leelas in Mahabharata Dharma and Bharatadesa, and instill
17 Readers Question(s) 17 pride in their roots of Sanatana
18 Announcements 18 Dharma.
19 Photo Gallery 20
To express your views about this e-
magazine, please write to
aarshavani@rushipeetham.org with the
subject line ‘VIEW’.
Thanks & Namaste,
Aarshavani Team.
Aarshavani FaceBook
Copyright © 2019 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.
‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ Aarshavani Vol. 5 March | 2019
Bhava! Harā! Mṛḍā! Śivā! SĀMAVĒDĪYAṀ
Pushpadanta’s (also known as Vararuchi or (QUINTESSENCE OF SANATANA DHARMA)
Maharshi Katyayana) Siva Mahimna Stuti is “Practice DHARMA. Take refuge in
one of the very efficacious stotras on Lord ESWARA. This is the gist of all Sastras.
Siva. It is pregnant with many intricacies of Practice while taking refuge. Take refuge
mantra, yoga, and tattva of Siva. Following
while practicing. Practice of apt Dharma
sloka illustrates the four very venerable
names of Siva, who orchestrates the entire without any confusion is possible only
universe with the three dominant qualities with the grace of Eswara”
of Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas and also - Brahmasri Dr.Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
propounds His true nature of ‘Supreme Upcoming Pravachanams
Bliss’, which is beyond the three qualities Date: Mar 4, 2019 6:30 PM
that is devoid of any quality. Topic: “Sivāradhana”
Venue: Kshipra Ganapati Devalaya,
bahula rajase viśvotpattau bhavāya namo namaḥ । Saket Hindu Dharmika Samajam
prabala-tamase tat saṃhāre harāya namo namaḥ । Saket, Hyderabad
Contact: C.A.R Gopalrao 9849612957
jana sukhakṛte sattvodriktau mṛḍāya namo namaḥ ।
KVL Ramesh 8247884291
pramahasi pade nistraiguṇye śivāya namo namaḥ ।। Devi Prasad 9347565075
‘Salutations to You in the name of ' bhavā' in as much as You create the world Date: Mar 7 - 29, 2019
by taking the `rajas' as the dominant quality; salutations to You in the name Venue: New Zealand
of `harā' in as much as You destroy the world by taking the `tamas' as the Contact: Govardhan Mallela 0064-96245922
dominant quality; salutations to You in the name of `mṛḍā', in as much as Email: gmallela@yahoo.com 0064-211455708
You maintain, protect and grant joy to the world by taking `sattva' as the Date: Mar 30 – Apr 3, 2019
Venue: Singapore
dominant quality. Again, salutations to You in the name of śivā in as much
Contact: Ratna Kumar 0065-91735360
as You are beyond the above-mentioned three qualities and are the seat of the Email: kumar.ratna@yahoo.com
supreme bliss.’ Date: Apr 8 - 12, 2019 6:30 PM
This sloka depicts the Lord as the Creator, One who gives happiness, and Topic: “Srimad Bhagavatam”
Vanquisher of the universe along with His true nature of Ever Venue: Zilla Parishad High School, Kalindi
Auspiciousness. Contact: NV Narasimha Raju 9490642168
bhavā – Creator; śivā in the form of Brahma is known as ‘bhavā’. When the Date: Apr 14 - 22, 2019 6:30 PM
quality rajas is abundantly overriding within, creation of universe and the Topic: “Sundara Kanda Visesha Arthaalato”
Venue: Smt. Velagapudi Durgamba
creatures within happens at the behest of śiva.
Prabhutva Mahila Degree Kalasala,
mṛḍā – One who gives delight; śivā in the form of Vishnu is known as Nidadavolu .
‘mṛḍā’. When the quality of Sattva is presiding, all the creatures in the Contact: Sitarama Kalyana Mahotsava
universe are overjoyed at the behest of śiva. Committee 9440879685; 9908425940
harā –Destroyer; śivā in the form of Rudra is known as ‘harā’. When the (For details visit http://rushipeetham.org/ Event Calendar)
quality of tamas is exceedingly exposing, entire universe is destroyed and Traditions-Fulfilments

merged at the behest of śiva. Chanting of following sloka ensures
These three denote the three syllables of Aumkara ‘A’, ‘U’, and ‘M’. The last the availability of food and water
state ‘Turiya’ represented by an effulgent halo of blissful light, which is without any suffering
beyond the three states and three qualities, is denoted by ‘śivā’. Hence, śivā ādityaścha upēndraśca
is that supreme consciousness which is serene, exa lted, aberrationless, cakrapāṇirmahēśvaraḥ |
emotionless, and devoid of guna. Everyone willing to reach that supreme daṇḍapāṇiḥ pratāpīsyāt
state should inevitably worship śivā. –Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma. kṣuttr̥ḍbādhā na jāyatē ||
(Adapted from ‘Siva Mahimna Stotram’ Pravachanam) vasurvaruṇa sōmau ca
Sadhu Vachanam sarasvatī ca sāgaraḥ |
"Be like a tree. The tree gives shade even to him who cuts off its boughs.” pan̄cai tān sansmarēdyastu
- Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. tr̥ṣātasya na bādhatē ||
Those who reminisce Aditya, Upendra,
Bharateeyam Chakrapani, Maheswara, and
"The apparent multiplication of gods is bewildering at the first glance, chivalrous Dandapani shall not suffer
but you soon discover that they are the same GOD. There is always one from hunger. Those who reminisce
uttermost God who defies personification. This makes Hinduism the
Vasu, Varuna, Soma, Saraswati, and
most tolerant religion in the world, because its one transcendent God
Sagara shall not suffer from thirst.
includes all possible gods." - George Bernard Shaw, Irish playwright.
Spiritual Quest
(Answers by Sri Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma)
I don’t know how to chant Rudra Namakam. I worship a silver Śiva Linga daily. Off late, some are saying
that Śiva should be worshipped only with Rudram and Śiva Linga should not be kept at home. Are these
statements true?
What you heard is not true. Having a Śiva Linga at home and performing worship grants holistic affluence. Abhishek
need not be performed with only Rudram. Abhishek can be performed reciting the names of Śiva or Astotra namas.
If nothing is possible, Abhishek can be performed just chanting ‘Śivāya Nama:’ Regular worship of Śiva at home is
very auspicious. Everyone can perform worship of Śivā, though more stipulations are prescribed for Bana Linga,
Sphatika Linga, Salagrama etc. Those should only be taken under guidance of proper Gurus. Still, worship of silver
Śivā Linga is good.
‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ Aarshavani Vol. 5 – March | 2019 1
Siva Padam
Hē Viśvanātha! Kāśī patē!
Śrī viśālākṣī patē! Namōstutē!
Gaṅgātīra nitya vihāra!

Śr̥ṅgārita himakiraṇa kiśōra!
Aṅgajabhaṅga! Yamāntaka! Dhīra!
Bhr̥ṅgi nandi parivēṣṭita! Bhavahara!
Maṇikarṇikādi tīrtha niṣēvita!

Ghr̥ṇilōlārkādi divija vandita!
Ghr̥ṇākara! Bindumādhavārcita!
Gaṇanāyaka ḍhuṇḍhidēva mōdita!
Dhanurākārānanda vanē ghanē Click to listen

Vinatāmaranuta mōkṣanagarē
Anupamāvimuktē umayā saha kāntārthāmala mūrti! nī yeḍala
Aniśam khēlasi ṣaṇmukha janaka! śr̥ṅgāram'mu paṇḍen, sudhā
This ‘Siva Padam’ composition extolls Sri Kāśī Viśvanātha. All the kāntul cindu śaśāṅka puṣpamunu
principal deities of Kāśī are venerated here. Sri Viśvanātha, decorated siṅgārin̄ci, vairāgyamā
with a crescent moon, always enjoys wandering along the banks of river pontan, nippulaboṭṭu, kāṭipoḍi
Ganga. He is the chivalrous who fired Manmatha, the God of love, and
restrained Yama, the God of death. He is residing in this Kṣētra as one maipūtal, gaḷam'mandu sai
who grants liberation vanishing the mundane containing desires and rintal nalladanam'mu kanpaḍe
time bound death. Entire retinue of Nandi, Bhrungi and others are smarārī! nīlakaṇṭhēśvarā!
living here serving the Lord.
O embodiment of beauty! You know the
sharpening in decoration. You are
‘Kāntārdhamalamūrtī’ i.e. one who gave
half of His body to His wife; You have
decorated Yourself with ‘Śaśāṅka
puṣpaṁ’ i.e. the moon flower radiating
the hues of nectarine; Meanwhile, Your
third eye radiating fire, pyre ashes
smeared all over the body, poison in the
In this city of Varanasi which is the abode of teerthas such as throat, and burning Manmatha, the god
Manikarnika and others, Adityas such as Lolarka and others, Vishnus of love are indicating His renunciation.
such as Bindu Madhava and others, Ganapati such as Dhundhi and One can clearly see the signs of complete
others are living happily bestowing joy to others. Shakti Visalakshi is renunciation in You, without even a trace
the Empress here. Thus, this city of Viśvanātha is flourishing as the the of mundane.
city of ‘Panchayatana’. Bow shaped city Kāśī is matchless. The Father of This poem in ‘Śri Nīlakaṇṭhēśvara
Shanmukha is wandering here in this city of Kāśī, also called Śatakaṁ’ is an excellent and unique
‘Anandavana’ and ‘’Avimuktam’, along with Umadevi and is always combination of diversity in manifestation
bestowing His grace. and unity in unmanifested form of Lord
This composition is set to tune in ‘Pahad’ raga by Sri Malladi Suribabu Śiva.
garu and sung by Sri Malladi brothers. About ‘nīlakaṇṭhēśvara’
in Sri Samavedam garu’s own words
(Adapted from ‘Siva Padam’ Album composed by
Brahmasri Dr. Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma garu) “‘Umā sahāyaṁ paramēśvara vibhum
trilōcanaṁ nīlakaṇṭhaṁ praśāntam…’ –
About ‘Siva Padam’ Meditation upon the form of nīlakaṇṭha
along with Uma is certain to grant
At a very young age, Sri Samavedam garu penned more than 1000
Mōkṣa, says Upanishad.
compositions as ‘Siva Padam’ explaining the unfathomable and inscrutable
‘nīlakaṇṭhēśvara’ name demonstrates
philosophy of Lord Siva under an intense spell of deep concentration and
the infinite compassion and efficacy of
meditation. Apart from standing out as a monumental literary and poetical
Siva. He held ‘Hālāhalaṁ’, the dreadful
work, this aids in the reach out to the common folklore through music,
poison terrorizing the three worlds in
dance and other forms of arts instilling the faith in eternal values of Indian
His throat, to save the worlds dwelling
culture and philosophy.
inside Him and existing outside.
Many noted singers such as Sri SP Bala Subrahmanyam, Sri Garimella Mentioning the same, my father
Balakrishna Prasad, Sri Malladi brothers, Smt. SP Sailaja etc. rendered Brahmasri Samavedam Ramamurthy
these compositions melodiously released in multiple albums titled Sarma garu ordered me to compose a
Sataka with the title line
etc. ‘nīlakaṇṭhēśvara’.”
Traditions – Fulfilments – March 2019 – Maha Sivaratri Special
1) Śivarātrisamaṁ nāsti vrataṁ pāpakṣayāpahaṁ |
yatkr̥tvā sarvapāpēbhyō mucyatē nātra sanśayaḥ ||
upavāsaṁ kariṣyanti jāgarēṇa samanvitaṁ yathōkta|
śāstramārgēṇa tēṣāṁ mōkṣō na sanśayaḥ ||
=>To destroy all evils, there is no vratam equal to Sivaratri vratam. There is not even an iota of doubt
that one who performs jagarana i.e. staying awake without sleeping along with fasting as stipulated
in scriptures shall certainly obtain liberation.
2) Śivarātrāvahōrātraṁ nirāhārō jitēndriyaḥ,
arcayēdvā yathā n'yāyyaṁ yathā balamavan̄cakaḥ,
yatphalaṁ mamapūjāyāṁ varṣamēkaṁ nirantaraṁ,
tatphalaṁ labhatē sadyaḥ śivarātrau madarcanāt
=> On Sivaratri day, one should control senses and worship Lord Siva to the best of their ability doing
fasting etc. Thus, one can obtain the merits of performing worship of Siva for one full year just by
performing the Sivaratri vratam on this day.
3) Those performing Sivaratri vrata should do this sankalpa –
Dēva dēva mahādēva nīlakaṇṭha namōఽstutē |
kartumicchāmyahaṁ dēva! Śivarātrivrataṁ tava ||
tava prabhāvāt dēvēśa! Nirvighnēna bhavēditi |
kāmadyāḥ śatravō māṁ vai pīḍāṁ kurvantu naiva hi ||
4) After the worship, hold flowers in hand, recite the following sloka and offer to Lord Siva -
Anēnaivōpavāsēna yajjātaṁ phalamēva ca tēnaiva prīyatāṁ dēvaḥ śaṅkaraḥ sukhadāyakaḥ. |
Niyamō yō mahādēva kr̥taścaiva tvadājñayā visr̥jyatē mayā svāmin vrataṁ jātamanuttamaṁ ||
Vratēnānēna dēvēśa yathāśakti kr̥tēna ca santuṣṭō bhava śarvādya kr̥pāṁ kuru mamōpari |
Puṣpān̄jaliṁ śivē datvā dadyāddāna yathāvidhi namaskr̥tya śivāyaiva niyamaṁ taṁ visarjayēt ||
This bestows Lord Siva’s grace completely.
5) Aṣṭamī sōmavārē ca kr̥ṣṇapakṣē caturdaśī caturṣvapi baliṣṭhaṁ hi śivarātrivrataṁ hare
=> Ashtami, Monday, Fourteenth day of dark fortnight (Krishnapaksha Chaturdasi i.e. Masa Sivaratri),
and Maha Sivaratri – These four are preeminent for Siva’s worship.
EFFICACY OF SIVA’S PRASADAM

6) āgataṁ śivanaivēdyaṁ gr̥hītvā śirasā mudā |bhakṣaṇīyaṁ prayatnēna śivasmaraṇa pūrvakaṁ ||
=> Partake Siva prasadam happily after chanting His name and bowing down with devotion.
7) na yasya śivanaivēdya grahaṇēcchā prajāyatē |
sa pāpiṣṭhō gariṣṭhaḥ syāt narakaṁ yātyapi dhr̥vaṁv||
=> Those who does not feel partaking the naivedya offered to Siva are great sinners. There is no doubt
that they shall reach hell.
8) caṇḍādhikārō yatrāsti tadbhāktavyaṁ na mānavaiḥ |
caṇḍādhikārō nō yatra bhōktavyaṁ tacca bhaktitaḥ ||
Bāṇaliṅgē calau hē ca siddhēliṅgē svayambhuvi |
pratimāsu ca sarvāsu na caṇḍōdhikr̥tō bhavēt ||
=> Siva’s naivedya should not be partaken in temples where Caṇḍēśwara has rights. But, because
Caṇḍēśwara has no rights in those places where there are Bana Lingas, Siddha Lingas, Swayambhu
Lingas, one should devoutly partake prasadam there.

9) sālagrāmōdbhavēlīṅgē rasaliṅgē tathā dvijāḥ |
pāṣāṇē rājatē svarṇē surasid'dha pratiṣṭhitē ||
kāśmīrē sphāṭikē rātnē jyōtirliṅgēṣu sarvaśaḥ |
cāndrāyaṇa samaṁ prōktaṁ śambhurnaivēdya bhakṣaṇāt ||
=>If one partakes prasadam offered to Salagram (Bana Linga), Padarasa Linga (Mercury Linga), Linga
made with stone, gold, crystal, and gems, Linga installed by Dwijas, Siddhas, and gods, and Jyotirlingas,
one gets the merit of performing chandrayana vratam with many atonements.
SIN OF ABUSING THE DEVOTEES OF SIVA

10) yē nindanti mahēśvaraṁ trijagatāmādhārabhūtaṁ haraṁ |
yē nindanti tripuṇḍradhāraṇakaraṁ dōṣastu taddarśanē ||
tēvai saṅkara sūkarāsura khara śvakrōṣṭu kīṭōpamaṁ |
jātā ēva bhavanti pāpa paramāstē nārakāḥ kēvalaṁ ||
=> Those who abuse Siva, His devotees wearing tripundras take many births as animals, birds, and
experience torture in hell.
11) prātardakṣiṇavadanō madhyāhnē śabararūpadhārī ca |
sāyaṁ girijāyuktastrēdhā hyēkōఽpi bhāsi paramaśiva ||
=> Though it is the same ONE SIVA, worshipping Him in the form of Dakshinamurti in morning,
Adi Kirata in afternoon, and along with His consort Parvati in evening bestows the grace of Lord
Siva.
UPACHARAS TO SIVA AND MERITS THEREBY

abhiṣēkāt ātmaśuddhiḥ gandhāt puṇyamavāpnuyāt |
āyuḥ tr̥ptiśca naivēdyāt dhūpāt arthamavāpyatē ||
dīpāt jñānamavāpnōti tāmbūlāt bhōgamāpnuyāt |
tasmāt snānādikaṁ ṣaṭkaṁ prayatnēna prasādayēt ||
Upachara Result
abhiṣēka - Bathing ātmaśuddhiḥ - Purification of the Self
Gandha – Sandalwood paste puṇyam – goodness
Naivēdya – Offering something to eat āyuḥ tr̥pti – Longevity, Contentment
Dhūpa – Incense Artham - Prosperity
Dīpa – Lamp Jñānam - Knowledge
Tāmbūla – Beetel leaves mixed with nut Bhōgam - Pleasures
Hence, one should make effort to perform at least these six upacharas to Lord Siva.
EFFICACY OF BILVA TREE

That house which has Bilva tree is the abode of Mother Lakshmi.
1) puṇyatīrthāni yāvanti lōkēṣu prathitān'yapi tāni sarvāṇi tīrthāni bilvamūlē vasanti hi

=> All the holy tirthas of three worlds are present at the root of Bilva tree in subtle form.
2) bilvamūlē mahādēvaṁ liṅgarūpiṇamavyayaṁ |

yaḥ pūjayati puṇyātmā sa śivaṁ prāpnuyāt dhr̥vaṁ ||
=> One who places Siva Linga at the root of Bilva tree and worships
shall be meritorious and attain oneness with Siva.
3) bilvamūlē jalairyastu mūrthānamabhiṣin̄cati,

sa sarvatīrtha snātaḥsyāt sa ēva bhuvi pāvanaḥ.
=> One who sprinkles water from the root of Bilva tree on head
obtains the merit of bathing in many tirthas and becomes holy.

GARUḌA MAHĀ PURĀṆA
Part 3
Garuda Purana also narrates the following –
Few chapters list the characteristic features of cows, horses, identification of

different breeds of cows and horses, their common problems and remedies etc.
Some chapters explain the rules of grammar – Vyakarana, Chandas (metre) etc.
Here, it is important to understand that only a highly civilized society can
propound such exalted concepts.
Some chapters expound on Yoga. Almost entire Yoga Sastra of Patanjali has been narrated here.
Efficacy of Garuda Purana and the benefits accrued by concentrated and devout reading with complete faith are
mentioned in many places throughout the Purana. For the sake of authenticity and credibility, some of those slokas
as told by Vishnu to Rudra are given below as-is –
vidyā kīrti prabhā lakṣmi jayārōgyādi kārakam | ya: paṭhē ccruṇuyādr̥drā sarvavit śivam vrajēt ||
ya: paṭhēt śr̥ṇuyādvāpi śrāvayēdvā samāhita: | sallikhē lēkhayēdvāpi dhārayēt pustakantu nanu ||
dharmārthī prāpnuyāt dharmam arthārthī ca arthamāpnuyāt |
putrārthī labhatē putrān kāmārthī kāmamāpnuyāt ||
vidyārthī labhatē vidyān jayārthī labhatē jayam | brahmahatyādinā pāpi pāpa śuddhamavāpnuyāt ||
vandhyāpi labhatē putrān kanyā vindati satpatim |
kṣēmārthī labhatē kṣēmam bhōgārthī bhōgamāpnuyāt ||
maṅgaḷārthī maṅgaḷāni guṇārthī guṇamāpnuyāt | kāvyārthī kavitvaṁ ca sārārthī ca sāramāpnuyāt ||
jñānārthī labhatē jñānaṁ sarva sansāra mardanam | idaṁ svarcayanaṁ dhanyaṁ gāruḍē garuḍēritaṁ ||
na akālē maraṇaṁ tasya ślōkamēkaṁ ya: Paṭhēt | ślōkārdhaṁ ya: Paṭhēt duṣṭa śatr̥ vināśayat ||
One will obtain knowledge, fame, luster, wealth, victory, and good health. For those aspiring dharma, wealth,
progeny, desire fulfilment, knowledge, and victory, they shall certainly obtain those.
Those who committed Brahmahatya i.e. sin of killing the Brahman (Brahman here
means Vedas, Cows, Brahmins living following Vedic stipulations etc.) shall be
absolved. Even a barren woman conceives child. A girl gets a good husband. Those
desirous of welfare, pleasures, auspiciousness, good qualities, and excellent poetry
shall certainly achieve them. Finally, this also has the power to completely remove
ignorance and grant the Supreme. Even reading of one sloka completely or half sloka
avoids untimely death and destroys one’s enemies. This is the ‘Garuda Vidya’ that
came from Garuda himself. ‘Garuda Vidya’ removes the malefic effect of toxins. When
the great Maharshi Kasyapa was immersed in the ecstasy of listening to this Purana,
he happened to see a burning tree which immediately turned green, due to the
efficacy of listening Garuda Purana.
This indicates that there is power of ambrosia in this Purana correlating with the episode that it is Garuda who
brought the ambrosia from heaven. Lord Vishnu told Rudra, “Know that Garuda Purana is My form.”
yathā surāṇāṁ pravarō janārdhanō yadāyudhānāṁ pravaraṁ sudarśanaṁ |

tathā purāṇēṣu ca gāruḍan̄ca mukhyaṁ tathārat hari tattva darśanē ||
As Lord Vishnu in gods, Sudarshana in weapons, Garuda Purana is the prime most among Puranas to expound
philosophy of Lord Hari. Garuda Purana turns one towards the ultimate goal of life – understand the philosophy of
Vishnu and attain liberation. Hence, this should be devoutly studied always, but not just when someone departs.
However, it should be noted that reading the above mentioned sixteen chapters in those ten days when someone
left their mortal coil enables them to reach an elevated state. One should hold Garuda Purana steadfast, if one truly
wants to know, understand and realize the ultimate Self.
- Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
(Adapted from ‘Garuda Mahā Purāṇam’ Pravachanam)
(To be continued…)

Major Festivals In This Month
Friday 01.03.2019 Magha Bahula Dasami to Sunday 31.03.2019 Phalguna Bahula Ekadasi
Phalguna, the second month in the season of autumn, yields bi-fold benefits for any god related activities.
The nama ‘"Śiśiraḥ śarvarī kara:" in Sri Vishnu Sahasanama mentioning the name of this season itself denotes
the significance of autumn. In this month, Lord Narayana controls with ‘Govinda’ nama. ‘Govinda’ is principal
nama even among the three names of Namatraya mantra ‘Achyuta Ananta Govinda’. Srimad Bhagavata
Purana also mentions that this month is dear to Lord Vishnu. Phalguni star is related to gods. Before the star
Purvaphalguni, scriptures mention that Sun will be in the form of god known as ‘Aryama’ with more lustre
and is followed by other gods.
MAGHA MONTH
02.03.2019 – Saturday Vijaya Ekadashi – Performing Ekadashi Vratam on this day grants victory in obtaining
all the four purposes of life – chaturvidha purushartha. Hence, this Ekadashi became popular as Vijaya
Ekadashi.
04.03.2019 – Monday Maha Sivaratri - Very efficacious day on which Paramasiva

manifested as ‘Linga’ without beginning and end at midnight. This day coming on a
Monday is alabhya yoga i.e. an uncommon boon. Sivaratri Vrata comprises of Upavasam
(fasting), Jagarana (remaining awake thinking of Siva without sleep), and Puja (worship).
Performing Siva kalyana during this auspicious time bestows lofty benefits. For those
beginning or completing vratas, this day yields infinite merits.
05.03.2019 –Tuesday Krishnamgaraka Chaturdasi – This chaturdasi of dark fortnight occurring on a Tuesday,
that too in the month of Magha, is great merit bestowing. Performance of ablutions, charity, japa, worship grant
greater merits.
06.03.2019 – Wednesday – Amavasya Pitrutithi Alabhya Yogam, Dwapara Yugadi Per the day of the week,
tithi, yoga, karana, and star, this day is mentioned as Pitrutithi Alabhya Yogam. Any tarpanas offered to ancestors
shall provide immense satisfaction to them.
PHALGUNA MONTH
07.03.2019 – Thursday – Beginning of Payo Vrata, Avighna Vrata Beginning from Padyami till Dwadasi,
mention of this Payo Vratam is made in Dharma scriptures and 8th chapter of Srimad
Bhagavata. Taking bath in holy rivers, offering arghya to Sun, worship of Sri Lakshmi
Narayana, and offering cow milk as naivedya is prescribed for these twelve days.
Aditi, wife of Maharshi Kasyapa, performed this vratam and obtained Vamana as her
son. During the vrata, on the Ekadashi day, worship of Amala tree should be done
chanting the following sloka –
dhātrīdēvi namastubhyaṁ sarvapāpa kṣayaṅkarī

putrān dēhi mahāprājñē yaśō dēhi balan̄ca mē
prajñāṁ mēdhāṁ ca saubhāgyaṁ viṣṇubhaktiṁ ca śāśvatīṁ
nīrōgaṁ kuru māṁ nityaṁ niṣpāpaṁ kuru sarvadā"
On this day, worship of Ganapati praying for the removal of obstacles is mentioned
as ‘Avighna Vrata’ in scriptures.
09.03.2019 – Saturday – Sowbhagya Vratam – Worship Sri Lakshmi Narayana or Parvati Parameswara with
sixteen upacharas. Sitting facing north, eat food without salt, hot tinge, and oil. Both men and women can
perform this vratam. Varaha Purana mentions that offering charity of honey, ghee, sesame, jaggery, salt, and
milk in six different vessels grants sowbhagya for more than seven births.
10.03.2019 – Sunday – Putra Ganapati Vratam – Shanta Chaturthi Vratam On this day, one should worship
Vinayaka, offer sesame seeds in homam, fast during day, and eat in the night. Again, worship Vinayaka on
Panchami day, offer rice mixed with sesame seeds and eat as prasadam.
17.03.2019 – Sunday – Amalaka Ekadasi, Pushyarka Yogam – This Ekadashi is aso known as ‘Dhatri’
Ekadashi. Union of Sunday and Pushyami star made this famous as ‘Pushyarka Yoga’. Worship of Sri Lakshmi
Narayana along with fasting and staying awake without sleeping are prescribed. Worship of Sri Lakshmi
Narayana under the shades of Amalaka tree is more meritorious. Even small charity offered on this day grants
infinite merits. Puranas mention that observing vrata on this day yields the merits of offering thousands of cows
in charity.

18.03.2019 – Monday – Govinda Dwadasi, Narasimha Dwadasi – Worship Narayana with ‘Govinda’ nama,
the presiding deity of this month. Perform special worship to Lord Narasimha in the evening. Taking bath in
river Ganga is very efficacious. This is the last day of Payovratam.
20.03.2019 – Wednesday – Holika Purnima, Madana Purnima, Dolotsavam, Lakshmi Jayanti, Beginning
of Brahma Savarnika Manvantaram - Pile up dry wood and cow dung cakes, fire up the heap, invoke ‘Holika’,
chant “Sri Holikayai nama” three times, and circumambulate around the fire three times chanting
"Vanditāsi surēndrēṇa brahmaṇā śaṅkarēṇa ca, atastvāṁ pāhinō dēvi bhūtē bhūti pradō bhava"
- Scriptures also mention about entire community playing

with pitchers spraying colors along with dance and music.
- Worship Krishna’s child form ‘Bala Krishna’ or ‘Radha

Krishna’ placing in a cradle.
narāḥ ḍōlāgataṁ dr̥ṣṭvā gōvindaṁ puruṣōttamaṁ |
phālguṇyāṁ priyatō bhūtvā gōvindasya puraṁ vrajēt ||
- Kalyanam of Sri Minakshi and Sundareswara in Madurai is

performed on this day. Kalyanam of Siva-Parvati is done in
many temples in Tamilnadu.
- Worship of Mother Lakshmi Devi on this day of Her manifesting from the milky ocean grants Her grace.
21.03.2019 – Thursday – Vasantotsavam, consuming of mango flowering - Dharma scriptures prescribe

festivities with spraying of water mixed with powders of multiple colors. This is known as playing ‘Vasantam’.
It is mentioned in Sastras that one should consume mango flowering mixed with chandana sitting facing east
on a white cloth after taking oil bath, smearing tilak on forehead and offering nirajana chanting the sloka –
cūtamagryaṁ vasantasya mākanda kusumaṁ tava |
sacandanaṁ pibāmyadya sarvakāmārtha siddhayē ||
This day also being the Kumbha Sankramana day, any offerings of charity, performance of japa etc. yield great
results.
ēkasya tēsrcanāddēva pan̄cāyatana pūjanaṁ |

jāyatēsn'ya surē caiva sambhavēnnahi sarvathā||
Svayaṁ śivastvaṁ vāmōrau śaktirgaṇapatistathā |
dakṣiṇōrāvakṣṇi sūryō hr̥dayē bhaktarāṭ hariḥ ||
annasya brahmarūpatvādrasātmatvāddharērapi |
bhōktr̥tvācca tavēśāna śrēṣṭhatvē kasya sanśayaḥ ||
viraktavyaṁ śikṣayiṣyan śmaśānē parvatē sthitiḥ |
utāmr̥tatvasyēśanō mantraliṅgēna sūktakē ||
jagatsanhārakaṁ hālāhalaṁ kēna dhr̥taṁ gaḷē|
mahāpraḷayakālāgniṁ bhālē dhartuṁ ca kaḥ kṣamaḥ ||
bhavāndhakūpa patanē hētuḥ kēna hataḥ smaraḥ|
kiṁ varṇyaṁ bhāgadhēyaṁ tē yadvaktuṁ hīdr̥śō bhavan||
Deva! Performing Your worship is similar to performing the worship of Panchayatana. Because, You Yourself is
'Siva'; 'Ambika', the embodiment of Shakti, is seated on Your left thigh; On the right side, 'Ganapati' is delightful
to see; 'Sun' is present in Your eyes; Radiance of 'Vishnu' is in Your heart. (Sivasya Hrudayam Vishnu:)
Not only You are the embodiment of Brahma in Anna and others, Vishnu in waters, You are the Doer of
everything. Because You are the one who consumes (Bhokta), You are Ishana; Not only that, You wander around
in hills and burial grounds to let know that You are the sole refuge of those dispassionate who realize the
transient nature of this world. Maharshis mention that You are the God propounded by the mantra
'Utaamrutatva Syeshaano' in Purusha Sukta. You held the Halahala, that would destroy the world’s in Your
throat. You are the one capable of controlling the 'Great Fire of Destruction' sporting on Your forehead.
Prostrations to You who reduced Manmatha, the cause for the cycle of births and deaths, to ashes. "
(Sanatkumara in Skanda Purana venerating Siva)

The Eternal
Part 4 Sanatana Dharma in practice
– Brahmasri Dr. Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma
Ālayas – Attacks by Invaders
Attacks on Mandirs in Bhārata by foreign invaders
Many temples in Bhārata – Jyotirlingas, Shakti Peethas, Vishnu mandirs etc. were brutally
destroyed by foreign invaders over centuries. Some plundered the immense wealth
present in these mandirs. Somanath Mandir in Gujarat is an outstanding example for this
kind of attack. Some forcibly took away the colossal treasure of knowledge. Just out of
hatred, some put fire to hundreds of manuscripts and other books that were available
only in Bhārata. Many scholars were beheaded in Kashmir and loads of books and
manuscripts about every possible branch of knowledge were burnt in piles in the street
junctions of Kashmir. Without even any trace of humanity, some butchered thousands of
Bhāratīyas mercilessly putting an end to their immaculate, rigorous, and austere
traditional life, because with the practice of such life they are energizing and protecting
the society around them. Reconstructed mandirs were demolished in multiple re-
invasions and were grazed to ground cruelly.
Is it not a sin to destroy temples?

Certainly, it’s a sin. This sin is of such magnanimity that scriptures did not even prescribe
any remedy for this kind of heinous acts. Even from an angle of human rights, it is
fundamentally atrocious to attack and destroy someone’s faith and belief practiced in
harmony and peace without any incitement or harm to others around them. In fact, it is
only in Sanatana Dharma that prayers are performed aspiring wellness for everyone and
seeking welfare of not only humans, but also birds and beasts. From an artistic sense also,
it is barbarian to destroy a gigantic and beautiful structure, sculptures, decorations etc.
that reflect someone’s hardwork, knowledge, skill, and above all dedication towards the chosen cause. Such
attacks have to be condemned and those insane attackers are not even worthy to be called humans. Any
religion or faith worth its name on this earth never neither should propagate nor prompt these kinds of
scandalous acts or excuse those who performed them with great pomp.
What Mother Bhavani told a disturbed Swami Vivekananda who encountered an invaded temple?
During his wanderings in Himalayas, Swami Vivekananda
(then Naren) encountered a temple of Divine Mother Bhavani.
It looked deserted and was in very dilapidated condition.
Swamiji was very disturbed and prayed Mother worrying about
the situation. Mother gave darshan to Swami Vivekananda and
told, ‘Why are you worried? Do you really think My mandir is
destroyed? Look at this.” And, then She showed Vivekananda a
resplendent and glorious Mandir present in all its gaiety and
grandeur. She said, “This is My real Mandir. If someone thinks
they destroyed My mandir by breaking the walls, structure,
sanctum, and other paraphernalia, they are thoroughly
mistaken.”
Does the Mandir gets devoid of its divinity and divine energy when destroyed by foreign attacks?
In one word, No. Mandir neither loses its sanctity nor divinity when
destroyed by foreign attacks. Divine energy is still intact and very much
present in the same place. For example, let’s take an electric holder
which is connected to an electric network. Holder obviously has
electricity flowing within, and therefore a bulb placed therein glows
and spreads light around. Someone broke the bulb. Light is gone, but
not the electricity flowing through the holder because of the connected
electric network. Destroying temple outwardly i.e. the sanctum, idol,
prakaras, attached stalls of chariots, elephants and other
paraphernalia is like breaking the bulb. The divine energy present therein and the sanctity is ever present.
Those who realize this still go there, pray,
arouse the divinity internally and
externally, and obtain the merits. Later,
someone chosen for this cause by the Lord,
reconstructs the Mandir and restores all
the lost glory.
DESTRUCTED MARTAND (SUN) TEMPLE IN KASHMIR

Are there invasions/attacks in recent times?
Off late, recently, these attacks are not direct, but are very subtle and focused. They are focused on specific
sections of Hindu society based on their economic situation, educational backwardness, lack of basic
needs of life etc. Also, intense efforts are in place to completely eradicate the faith by demeaning culture
and traditions, deriving very derogatory and insinuating explanations to practices and observances in
Sanatana Dharma. Some forms of God are portrayed fearsome and vulgar. Some customs are dubbed as
orthodox beliefs, and yet some customs are termed inequalities among different groups.
What should we do? What is our responsibility?

Our Mandirs are constructed according to set principles and thereby are treasure houses of infinite
energy of the Supreme. Primarily, it is very essential to comprehend that our Mandirs are not houses of
faith. Everyone should realize that Mandirs in Sanatana Dharma are potent centers of great divine energy.
This truth is corroborated by the very fact that the innumerable invasions on Bhārata could neither
destroy the innate devotion, faith, traditions, culture, nor the worship practices across the country.
Bhāratīyas always sprung back to their roots. A Kumbh Mela where millions take a dip even today
enduring all the hardships, great annual chariot festival in Puri where millions participate with great
fervor and devotion every year, and many other religious events that take place across Bhārata
demonstrate this fact. Sanatana Dharma built on the robust foundation of super sensual intellectual
knowledge obtained by hordes of Maharshis with their hard, devout, and divine tapas shall never perish
from the face of this earth.
➢ It’s the responsibility of every Bhāratīya to pray to the Supreme to rejuvenate the Sanatana Dharma
in this country and make it shine in all its pristine glory.
➢ Take pride in being a Bhāratīya and follower of Sanatana Dharma. Know that this Dharma is as old
as the creation itself.
➢ Practice all the customs, traditions, and practices that have been in vogue in your home since
generations. Don’t just brush them aside dubbing as orthodox beliefs or unscientific acts. Accept
the fact that they are not insensible, but your limited intellect is unable to understand them and
realize their importance.
➢ Make an attempt to comprehend the intricate significance and meanings of various customs,
traditions, practices etc. imbibed into our religion by the great Maharshis for our welfare.
➢ Regularly visit the mandir in your vicinity along with all family members; Make it a habit to visit
any holy pilgrimage center at least once a year.
ŚRĪ SŪKTAM
āditya varṇē tapasōdhi jātō vanaspatistava vr̥ kṣō tha bilva:
tasya phalāni tapasānudantu māyānta rāyāśca bāhyā alakṣmī:
O Mother emanating colors of Sunlight! ‘Aditi’ means one which can’t be cut i.e. the
embodiment of unbroken effulgence. Being the sons of Aditi, all gods together are
called ‘Ādityas’. Aditi is the embodiment of that effulgence and is also Mother of
Bhagavan Surya, who is the form of all gods. This sloka makes a mention about
Mother Gāyatri also. Per Vedic meaning, ‘Ādi’ i.e. this is the one which existed
initially i.e. this hue of Āditya is the hue of the form of infinite halo which existed at
the beginning of creation. ‘Ōmityēkākṣaram brahmā’ – Āditya is none other than
Brahman. ‘Ōmkāra is the varna (syllable) denoting Āditya. It means that Mother is
the embodiment of Pranava.
Tava – Yours; Tapasā – By the Tapas; Adhijātā – Born; Vanaspataya: - Those trees that bear fruit without flowering
are called Vanaspati. They are divine and came due to Mother’s tapas.
Bilva: - This tree came due to Mother’s tapas. Presiding deity of this mantra has color similar to radiance of rising
Sun. The form of ‘Bālā‘, as mentioned by Aruna Kirana Jālai:…’, is told in this mantra. Puranas mention that Mother
exists in different forms in different forests like ‘Suseela Ketaki Vane’, ‘Viraja Champaka Vane’, ‘Malathi Malathi
Vane’, ‘Kundadanta Kunda Vane’ etc. She is the ‘Lakshmi of Harvest’ in yields. Significance of mentioning Bilva tree
here is that Bilva tree is also known as ‘Sri’ tree, and Bilva fruit is known as ‘Sri’ fruit. Observance and parayana of
Sri Sooktam is stipulated in Bilva forests for a mandala period. Moreover, worship of Sri Chakra and Siva Linga with
Bilva leaves removes any kind of penury. Per Vamana purana, Mother performed Tapas and Bilva came from Her
hand. ‘Bilvā lakṣmyā karē Abhavat’ – The radiant power of tapas generated in Mother gave rise to Bilva.
Tapasa – Tadungrahena – By virtue of Tapas.
Tasya Phalāni – The fruits obtained thereby
māyānta rāyāśca bāhyā alakṣmī: - With Your grace, let the ‘Alakshmi’ present around me outside and inside be
removed with the merits of those Bilva that arose as the result of Your Tapas.

‘antarindriya bahirindriya sambandhinya: yā: tā: alakṣmī: aśriyam nudantu’ – Nudantu – be removed
“O vMother emanating colors of Āditya! With Your grace, the tree Vanaspati Bilva and its fruits which came due to the
power of Your Tapas, remove the darkness of my ignorance created by illusion inside and outside.”
Let’s see the description of Mother in various puranas, mantra treatises, and scriptures –
Mantra treatises describe this form of Mother as ‘tanumadhya devi’. “udyadāditya saṅkāśaṁ bilvakānana
madhyagām tanumadhyāṁ śriyaṁ dhyāyēt alakṣmī parihāriṇīm” is the sloka for meditating upon Tanumadhya
Devi.
Bhargava Purana describes worship of Mahalakshmi - ‘bilvāṭavyām mahālakṣmīm upāsīta bilva nāyikām’.
Scripture Sārasvata Siddhi elucidates Mother – ‘taruṇārkavat aruṇa varṇē aruṇāṁ karuṇātaraṅgitākṣīm
bālārūpā mantrasūcitam bhavati’.
Puranas describe - ‘tanumadhyā purā bālā nīvātaṭamupāśritā bilvāraṇyē tapaścakrē lakṣmīrlōka hitārthinī’
i.e. Mahalakshmi Narayani resides as ‘Tanumadhya’ in Kanchi mandala near Chandragiri on the banks of river Neeva.
‘bilvanāthā priyāyāstu nārāyaṇyāyā: tapōbalāt, bilvāraṇyaṁ phalatsadyalōkā: alakṣmī nivr̥ ttayē’ –

sowbhāgyasanjīvani mahāratnakōsam
Srisuktam-
‘tanumadhyāṁ mahālakṣmīm bālātripurasundarīm tribilvapatrai:
sampūjya sahasra prajapēdr̥ caṁ’
paramartham
– Scriptures mention that worship of Mahalakshmi thousand times with
In this book, Brahmasri Dr. Samavedam
Bilva triplets chanting this sloka gives extraordinary benefits.
Shanmukha Sarma garu elucidated the
profound intricacies of SRI SUKTAM in
A tale in sanatkumāra samhita of skanda purana – his own inimitable style. A must read
‘Śivaliṅgārcanōdyōgī jagadrakṣaṇa dīkṣita: Mahāviṣṇu: Tapaścakrē’ – for all aspiring mundane affluence as
Accompanying Lord Narayana, the protector of universe, in the worship of well as Brahma Vidya.
Śiva, devoted Mother Lakshmi Devi wanting to create and offer something, Please contact Rushipeetham
created Bilva tree from Her right hand and worshipped Śiva with Bilva leaves Hyderabad office @ 040-27134557 /
along with Narayana. Pleased with this worship, Śankara appeared and told 27134557
them that Bilva tree shall become famous as Sree Vruksha, whose three leaves
are dear to Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheswara and are equivalent to three
Vedas.
mahālakṣmī tapastēpē tadā bilvatarurjāta: lakṣmīrdakṣiṇa hastata:
tatpatraiśca arcayāmāsa mahāviṣṇustu śaṅkaram bilvapatrārcanayā
tuṣṭō mahādēvō dayānidhi: śrī vr̥ kṣa iti vikhyātō bilvadr̥ rdēva
pūjita: triguṇai tridaśai: patrai: trimūrti prītidāyaka: trayīmayōyaṁ
Bilva trees are present in Kailāsa, Vaikuntha, Swēta Dwīpa, heaven and Mani
Dwīpa, the abode of Mother. In Bhārata, Bilva tree emanated as a result of
Maharshis tapas.
Great poet Kālidāsa had darshan of Mother Syāmala among the cluster of Bilva trees. Hence, in Syāmala Dandakam, he
described, “Samrūḍha bilvāṭavī madhya kalpadrumā kalpa kādamba kāntāra vāsapriyē..”
Efficacy and benefits of worshipping with Bilva leaves -

‘śrīpriyaṁ yōrcayēt bilvaṁ sa narō bhāgyavān bhavēt’ – Those worshipping Mother Lakshmi Devi with
Bilva triplets or Bilva leaf itself as Mother Lakshmi shall become affluent.
‘śrī yantraṁ bilvapatraistu śivaliṅgamathāpi vā yōrcayēdanvahaṁ bhaktyā

puruṣārtha: Samaśnutē’ Those worshipping Siva Linga or Sri Chakra with Bilva
triplets shall obtain all the purusharthas – Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha.
caṇḍī tvaccaraṇāmbujārcana vidhau bilvīdaḷōluṁṭhanāt

tr̥ ṭyātkaṇṭaka kōṭibhiḥ paricayaṁ yēṣā na jagmu: Karā |
tē daṇḍāṅkuśa cakrapāśa Kuliśaśśrēṇī śatairan̄ citā jāyastē
pr̥ thivībhuja: Kārami vām bhōja: Prabhaie: Pāṇibhiḥ || – Kālidāsa.
Though one does not have any lines on his body indicating affluence according to corresponding sastras, any lines that
are created by thorns while plucking Bilva leaves are certain to change once destiny.
Jagadguru Śrī Ādi Śankarāchārya venerated this ‘Tanumadhyā Dēvi’ as Mahālakṣmī in Śrī Kanakadhāra Stotram
‘Bilvāṭavī madhya lasatsarōjē sahasrapadmē sukhasanniviṣṭām aṣṭām padāmbhōruha pāṇi padmām
suvarṇavarṇāṁ praṇamāmi lakṣmīm’ – One should meditate upon Śrī Mahālakṣmī Dēvi sitting in a lotus in the
center of a lake in the middle of Bilva forest. - Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
(Adapted from ‘Śrī Sūktam’ Pravachanam)
20.03.2019 – Holika Purnima, Lakshmi Jayanti
śiva jñānaṁ
– Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
Bāla Śiva
Part 36
Generally, we never encounter elucidating Sadāśiva in the form of a child. But, this child form of Śiva is described
in Purāṇas and also in vogue in worship practices.
Following is the narration according to one Śakti Purāṇa – When the Mother of the Universe remains ferocious even
after vanquishing all the demons thus leading to an untimely destruction of the worlds, all gods pray to Śiva to calm
Her down. Immediately, Śiva transforms into a beautiful baby with small serpents, small tiger skin, small matted
hairlocks, small crescent moon… and cries akin to a child. Hearing that sound, Mother turned towards Him. An
affection of motherly love surged up in Her and She was at peace.
In the Kāśī Khaṇḍa of Skānda Purāṇa, there is a mention of ‘Bāla Śiva’.
A great soul Viśvānara prayed to Lord Viśvanātha in Kāśī aspiring virtuous progeny. He was blessed with the vision
of ‘Bāla Śiva’ in the Viśvēśvara Liṅga in Kāśī. Laureate poet Srinatha described this form zealously.
One of the famous devotees of Śiva, Bejja Mahādēvi, cajoled Śiva as a child and attained salvation.
‘Because Śiva had no mother, He underwent so many tribulations! If He had Mother, will there be so many troubles?
‘Talli galgina nēla tapasi gāniccu?
Talli galgina nēla tala jaḍalgaṭṭu?
Talli yunna viṣambu trāvanēliccu?
Talli yuṇḍina tōḷḷu dālca nēliccu?
Talli pāmula nēra dhariyimpaniccu?
... Talli puccunē sutu vallakāṭikini?
- Pālkuriki sōmanāthuḍu - Basava purāṇaṁ
‘If there were Mother to Śiva, why would the mother let
Him become an ascetic? Why would the mother let His hair
ungroomed leaving as matted hairlocks? Why would the
mother let drink poison? Why would mother let wear
garments of skin? Why would mother let put snakes around? Why would mother send son to burial grounds?’
Thus felt that simple and innocent woman. She considered Śiva as her son, bathed and cajoled Him as a child with
great fondness. She pampered Him, ’nā yanna! nā kannā! nā paṭṭi! nā cinna vāḍugā!’ meaning ‘O boy! My child! My
love! My small celibate!’ Śiva became very happy at her overgush of affection and granted liberation.
Śiva responds with the same emotion with which the devotee worshipped Him and bestows grace accordingly. The
form of ‘Bāla Śiva’ which is suitable for worshipping with an emotion of ‘affection’ is widely prevalent in some parts
of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Forms of ‘Bāla Śiva’ in sleeping pose are found in prominent pictures in those
areas.
“Śrī pādamula baiḍi ciru gajjiyala tōḍa kavaṇin̄cu gaṇḍapeṇḍāra mamara
Velidāmarala bōlu veḍada krālgannulu maddikāyala tōḍi suddhi vaḍaya
Molaka kūkaṭi grālu muktālalāmambu bhasitampu boṭṭutō bādarimpa
bālabuggala dīpti pallavambulatōḍa jinni lēnagavulu celimi sēya
lajja erugani kaṭi maṇḍalambu mīda valuda vajrāla kamaruṁ garvambu sūpa
divya bālakuḍokaruṇḍu tējarille gāśi viśvēśa śambhu liṅgambu naḍuma”
‘Spectacular feet with twinkling bells, resonating Gaṇḍapeṇḍēra, white lotus like broad pure eyes, waving necklace
of pearls in curly ringlets, radiant mark on the forehead, little cheeks shining like young shoots, friendly smiles,
diamond string showing pride on waist hitherto unknown for shyness – Such divine boy manifested in the Kāśī
Viśvēśvara Liṅga.’ Looking at form of ‘Bāla Śiva’, Viśvānara prayed Him –
‘..Yevvani valana sarvambu yevvaḍu sarvambu kanuṅgonu yevvaṇḍu sampannuṁ, Ḍevvaḍu daridru,
ḍevvaṇḍu vr̥d'dhum, ḍevvaṇḍu yuva, yevvaḍu bāluṇḍaṭṭi nīku namaskārambu..’
‘Who is the cause of everything, who creates everything, who is the richest, who is the poorest, who is the oldest,
who is the youngest, who is the child -To that You, I prostrate’. Śiva incarnated as the son of Viśvānara. He was
called ‘Gruhapati’. With the power of His tapas, He became the embodiment of Fire and later became the Lord of
‘The world of Fire’. He became famous as ‘Vaiśvānara’ after His father’s name ‘Viśvānara’. Rudra mantras such as
‘namō pagalabhāya ca – namō jyēṣṭāya ca – namō kaniṣṭhayā ca’ corroborate the same thoughts.
WHAT IS THE GOTRAM OF ŚIVA?
Amidst many auspicious sounds of conch, drums, and other instruments, Śiva entered
into the marriage hall led by Brahma, His preceptor, Vishnu, Indra and gods.
Accompanied by Lakshmi Devi, Saraswati Devi, Sachi Devi and others, Mother Parvati
Devi entered into the wedding pavilion. Air is filled with fragrant aroma. Its joy all
around and atmosphere is festive. Himavan, father of Mother Parvati, asked the details
of Śiva’s caste, branch of Veda Śiva belongs to, Śiva’s gotram to chant the pravara i.e.
lineage of the groom to begin the rituals. Śiva put on an innoncent face and sat quietly.
Suddenly, Maharshi Narada started playing Veena. Himavan was upset and got angry.
Maharshi Narada, who always remains calm, suddenly became furious and said, “Are you people mad? Your wife
earlier commented about the physical form and beauty of Śiva. And, now, you are asking about His gotram, family,
lineage etc. What are you thinking about Śiva? Because you are an extrovert, you’ll never know about Śiva. Just
because of the merits of your daughter, you are able to sit in front of Śiva, see His divine form and feet, and talk.
When Śiva manifested as a gigantic pillar of fire, none were even able to find neither the beginning nor the end.
Śiva is infinite and immeasurable. But, for your sake, I’m now telling His gotram. Śiva is ‘Nādagōtrajā’ i.e. Śiva’s
gotra is ‘Nāda’ i.e. sound.” These words are pregnant with intricate meaning. Śiva, one who has no form, can take
any form. He takes form based on the mantra. In other words, the sound consciousness that emanates from the
mantra is nothing but the form of god. The Supreme first manifested as ‘Omkara’, the form of sound, and later
existed as ‘Vedas’ which came from ‘Omkara’.
saguṇasya mahēśasya līlayā rūpa dhāriṇa:
śivō nādamayassatyaṁ nādaśyōmayassadā
ubhayōrantaraṁ nāsti nādasyaca śivasyaca
Hence, the manifested form (Saguna) of God emanates from ‘Nāda’,
whereas the unmanifested form (Nirguna) will not have any form and
name. Since ‘gōtra’ is defined as the origin, ‘Nāda’ from which the Saguna
form of Lord emanated is His ‘gōtra’. Saint composer Tyagaraja says in
one his compositions -
“nāda tanumaniśaṁ śaṅkaraṁ namāmi mē manasā śirasā |
mōdakara nigamōttama sāmavēda sāraṁ vāraṁ vāraṁ ||
Sadyōjātādi pan̄ca vaktraja sa-ri-ga-ma-pa-da-ni vara sapta-svara |
vidyā lōlaṁ vidaḷita kālaṁ vimala hr̥daya tyāgarāja pālaṁ || nāda ||”
‘I bow to Sankara, the embodiment of Nada, with my mind and body. To Him, the essence of blissful Samaveda, the best of the
vedas, I bow every time. To Him, who is delighting in the art of the seven svaras, Sa-Ri-Ga-Ma-Pa-Da-Ni, born of His five faces,
Sadyojata etc., I bow to Him, the destroyer of time, the protector of pure-hearted Tyagaraja, I bow.’
He says in another composition - ‘Sadāśivamayamagu nāda ōṅkāra svaravidhulu’. Parameswara is the embodiment
of ‘Nāda’, as His form emanates from sound.
The very terms ‘Para Śiva, Parameswara’ connote that these are the forms of Nirguna Para Brahman, which took
this Saguna form now. Upon hearing this details from Devarshi Narada, entire assembly applauded. Himavan
requested for pardon.
TALAMBRALU
Talambralu is one of the important rituals of marriage. After tying the
mangal sutra on the bride, the bride and groom shower one another with
“talambralu”. The pure white pearls in Parvati’s already red colored hands,
are reflecting and shining in crimson color. When they are poured over
beautifully braided hair of Śiva, they are radiating marvelously like drops of
Ganga. They just disappeared after passing Śiva’s hair, and merged into the
effulgence of His body hue glowing like autumn moon. Red color signifies
love. Holding hands together in the form of heart is to prostrate and offer
oneself. Among the gems, pearl is associated with moon (Candramā
manasō jāta:).
This indicates that all the emotions that came from mind of Mother have become like pearls merged in
Śiva i.e. became Śivōham. - Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
(Adapted from ‘Siva Parvati Kalyanam’ Pravachanam)

ŚRĪ ĀDI ŚAṄKARA JÑĀNA YAJÑAṀ
Śr̥ti smr̥ti purāṇānāṁ ālayaṁ karuṇālayam
namāmi bhagavatpādaṁ śaṅkaraṁ lōka śaṅkaraṁ.
Sri Adi Sankara does not belong to any sect. He is the ‘Samanvaya Karta’
(harmonizer) of the holistic Bharateeyata and Sanatana Dharma in totality.
PART 2
INTRODUCTION
Sankaracharya didn’t degrade any school of thought. He noticed that they are correct on their path from their angle,
but are unable to comprehend the totality as a whole. Vedanta propounds all three – Dvaita, Vishishtadvaita,
and Advaita, because they are not contradictory to one another. Sankaracharya said, “Advaita is true only
in the state of realization. At the worldly level, Dvaita and Vishishtadvaita are true”. Hence, He, while
accepting every path, directed them to advance still further and grasp the complete picture. Neither did He deny
Sankhya nor did He deny Mimasa or others. Meanwhile, some other religions such as Charvaka, Buddhism, Jainism
etc. emerged taking some truths as basis from Vedas such as theory of rebirth, theory of karma etc., combining with
Yoga, but denounced Iswara and rituals mentioned in Vedas. But the very fact that Buddhism and Jainism concur
with the above mentioned theories confirm that they are also part of Hinduism. Sankara said, “Karma is the basis
of everything. If you want to fulfill mundane desires, do karma with that orientation. If you want to attain liberation,
do good actions as stipulated by Vedas without any expectation.
These actions without any expectation purify the mind and ultimately lead to the comprehension of supreme
knowledge. Hence, karma should not be stopped till the last breath. Also, performing karmas fulfills one’s
responsibility towards family, parents, society etc. Practice self-values such as truth, non-violence, purity, control
of senses and anger, free from delusion, pride, lust, jealousy, charity etc. Virtuous deeds done without the practice
of these values is futile. Even small proportion of virtuous deeds accompanied with the practice of these values
yields high merits. And, never forget Iswara. Offer the fruit of all your actions to Iswara, as He is the foundation of
all actions. Never forget His existence. This removes the ego of doership and makes one a good devotee. One can
attain the Supreme only after one leaves off ego at the feet of Iswara. Only then one can realize the Iswara existing
within – Swa Swaroopa. Choose the form you like and worship Iswara in that form. If you want to worship as Siva,
follow Saiva agama. If you want to worship as Vishnu, follow that agama and so on. Never breed hatred towards one
form or other, as all these forms are of the same Iswara. Complete dedication and surrender to chosen deity is good,
but denouncing other forms is impediment and in fact destroys the spiritual practice. These forms are decreed by
Vedas, seen by Maharshis and handed over to us. These forms are not imaginary
creations, but are thoroughly real.” He took only those forms of Supreme as propounded
by Veda and established their worship as stipulated in the corresponding agamas and
other scriptures. He coordinated and harmonized all the six major paths of worship –
Saiva, Vaishnava, Ganapatya, Sakteya, Saura, and Skanda. Hence, Sankaracharya is called
‘Shanmata Pratishthapanacharya’. Sankara substantiated all these different paths
with references from Vedas. It’s like gathering all the scattered and tortured milk
giving nutritious cows (different paths) after releasing from their tormentors
(anti-Vedic propagators) with great effort, tying them to one stable post (Vedas)
in a beautiful cowshed (Sanatana Dharma). He also directed one to turn inward and
question oneself about ‘I’, such as ‘Kastvam? Koham? Kutaa:?’
Kenopanishad says,’Jeevaavat Kenova Vayam? Kuto Jaata:?’. Seeking answers to these kinds of questions is
‘Anveshana’ i.e. search for truth. Everyone should clearly note that Sankara did not propagate any religion or god.
He is a philosopher. Once one understands and makes the philosophy of Sankara as the basis, one can comprehend,
defend, and follow any path with dharma without any disturbance in mind and confusion in practice. Many great
souls such as Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi, Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Sri Chandrasekhara Saraswati etc.
in recent times lived and demonstrated the philosophy of Sri Adi Sankaracharya. Again, in 1893, the attention of
entire world turned towards Sanatana Dharma with the roar of Swami Vivekananda is World Parliament of
Religions at Chicago. Swami Vivekananda impressed upon the world the broadness of Hinduism and different paths
present therein with the strong foundation of Advaita advocated by Sri Adi Sankara. Many opine that Sankara
primarily advocated the path of knowledge, not devotion. But, He Himself said that one can’t attain knowledge
without devotion. “Sva svarūpa anusandhānaṁ bhakti rityabhidhīyatē” – Bhakti or devotion is nothing but to think,
look and inquire, seek refuge and venerate i.e. uninterruptedly connecting with Him. Following are the essential
qualities required for a seeker of liberation - Samam (Inner control of senses), Damam (External control of senses),
Nitya-Anitya Vastu Vivekam (Discrimination between real and unreal), Iha-Para Sukha Vairagya (Dispassion on
pleasures here and hereafter), Antarindriya and Bahyendriya Nigraham (Control of senses outside and inside),
Concentration of mind on God, staying peaceful outside and inside. In Viveka Chudamani, Sri Sankara said,
“Moksha Saadhana Saamagryaam Bhaktireva Gariyasi” i.e. Bhakti is the container that will contain all the above
qualities. - Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
(Adapted from ‘ŚRĪ ĀDI ŚAṄKARA JÑĀNA YAJÑAṀ’ – ‘BHAJA GŌVINDAṀ’ - Pravachanam) (To be continued...)

Hindu Dharma – Form, Nature and Effect
Hindu A merican F oundation E xecutive Director Suhag Shukla launche d ‘Shakti Initiative’. As the name s uggests, in her own wor ds, about the initiative, “W hen s couring the Inter net for hours t o Hindu Wome n, Religion and their i mme nse contribution, I was frustrated beca use most of the we bsites are politically or religiously motivated, stereotyped with outright lies, and misrepre sent the s criptural quotes with s ocial evils completely juxtaposing the trut h. This initiative aims to bring into bright light the life stories and contributions of some of the most re markable women human hi story has ever see n si nce Vedi c times. T his should i nspire both women a nd men to get reacquainte d with and rea ssert, in ma ny fa cets of life where we have fallen s hort, the bala nce a nd har mony our traditions advocate for between man and woma n, and ultimately realize their potential to the highe st.”
(Adapted from ‘Hindu Dharma Swaroopamu, Swabhavamu, Prabhavamu’ Pravachanam)

- Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
Outwardly, the various spiritual theories and teachings may seem to be contradicting each other.
Within the philosophical domain, you have the Advaita, Dvaita and Visishtadvaita philosophies.
In the domain of spiritual practice, you have a choice of methods ranging from ritual oriented
worship at the temple to completely silent meditation on formless divine. Each has its own merits,
according to the need, nature and temperament of the devotee.
Many great teachers came up throughout India through the ages – many of them lived
and taught during the tumultuous period while Bharata varsha was being ruled by other
races and religions. They not only taught, but were living examples themselves of the
applicability and effectiveness of the various methods or worship we have been
discussing. Saint bards like Tyagaraja Swamy, Meera Bai and Annamacharya attained
salvation through devotional music. While doing that, they didn’t deny ritualistic
worship. Tyagaraja sang, “Tulasī daḷamulacē santōṣamugā pūjintu” (Oh Rama, with
tender leaves of Tulasi plant, I worship you with pleasure). Annamacharya sang, “ṣōḍaśa
kaḷānidhiki ṣōḍaśōpacāramulu” (To the Lord effulgent in the 16 phases, let me perform
the 16 ritual services in worship).
So, in this fashion, the depth and breadth of the diversity and pluralism that is innate nature to Hinduism offers a
wealth of opportunities to the spiritual seeker, while not prohibiting or punishing any honest spiritual endeavor.
Moreover, it has demonstrated time and again that it is not limited to theory and books, but is a living and vibrant
tradition of continuous regeneration even in the midst of great oppression – that is our Sanatana Dharma. As we
defined earlier, Sanātanaṁ nitya nūtanaṁ. Eternal is not only ancient, but also constantly new and fresh.
Translation: Narayanaswamy Sankagiri (To be continued...)
SANATANA DHARMA Hindu American Foundation launches ‘Shakti Initiative’

Hindu American Foundation Executive Director Suhag Shukla launched
‘Shakti Initiative’. As the name suggests, in her own words, about the initiative,
“When scouring the Internet for hours to find about Hindu Women, Religion
and their immense contribution, I was frustrated because most of the websites
are politically or religiously motivated, stereotyped with outright lies, and
AROUND THE WORLD misrepresent the scriptural quotes with social evils completely juxtaposing the
truth. This initiative aims to bring into bright light the life stories and contributions of
some of the most remarkable women human history has ever seen since Vedic times. This
should inspire both women and men to get reacquainted with and reassert, in many facets
of life where we have fallen short, the balance and harmony our traditions advocate for
between man and woman, and ultimately realize their potential to the highest.”
UK cemetery with an outdoor shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva
Hindu Council confirmed Great Glen was the first UK cemetery to allow an outdoor shrine dedicated
to Lord Shiva. Mr Sailesh Raja, donor of the idol, said installing the statue was a "great achievement
for the Hindus of Leicester". He said it meant that mourners no longer had to pray to pictures of Lord
Shiva following a funeral service. Instead, for the first time, worshippers can now perform an outdoor
Shiva Abhishek, in which offerings are made to the God.
Australian Catholic School bars Hindu girl for nose piercing, shows religious discrimination
A Hindu girl studying in Perth's Aranmore Catholic College has been barred from coming to school until she removes
her nose-piercing. 15-year-old Sanya Singhal is a Class 10 student and has been studying in Aranmore since Class 3,
local news website West Australian reports. According to Singhal's mother, the nose-piercing has religious
symbolism. For many in India, especially Hindus, a nose-pin traditionally marks a girl's transition into womanhood.
When Singhal tried to rejoin school this year, she was told to take the nose-pin off or go home. Despite producing a
letter from her mother explaining the significance of the piercing, she was told to remove the item. The 15-year-old
and her mother have decided to stand their ground, accusing the school of religious discrimination. According to
Singhal's mother, the school allowed Muslim girls to wear the headscarves and Christian women to wear a crucifix
but only had an issue with her daughter's nose pin which is part of her and her family's religious identity.
Virginia brewery apologizes for 'Hanuman' beer after Hindu protest

Salem (Virginia), USA based Olde Salem Brewing Company apologized after Hindu protest over its beer carrying the
name of Hindu deity Lord Hanuman, calling it “highly inappropriate”. Owner Sean Turk, in a Company statement
emailed today to distinguished Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, who spearheaded the protest, wrote: “…When naming
our Spanish milk stout “Hanuman” we were unaware of the Hindu deity referenced by Rajan Zed. This name was
purely a musical reference and had no other intent. We are reviewing options to address the situation…We apologize
if this inadvertent association has offended anyone in anyway”.
Disclaimer: - The information provided under ‘Sanatana Dharma Around the World’ session is collected from various sources. Readers may check for accuracy.

Bāla śikṣa CHiLdREN’S CORNER
EDUCATION – PLEASURE DEVOTION TOWARDS GOD – COUNTRY
(VIDYA – SUKHAM) - SVSN SARMA
Continues..
Those who spend time in It is important that children should know about ‘Devotion’. Many children, nay even
such manner shall not elders, think that devotion is nothing but going to temples and prostrate before God.
have any spare time for But, devotion is an ‘Emotion of Love’. From the moment of taking birth, we live in this
other things. They shall world with the aid of many such as fellow human beings, nature around us etc. In fact,
enjoy the later life to the we can’t give anything in return to many of those who are helping us i.e. can never
full extent. Therefore, for repay their debt. Humble prostration is partly an expression of our gratitude towards
a successful and pleasure the magnanimity of parents and teachers saying ‘Mātr̥ dēvō bhava, Pitr̥ dēvō bhava’,
filled life after, the and ‘Ācārya dēvō bhava’. All these are part of devotion only. Because parents unselfishly
student stage of life do many things, children gradually develop an affinity of ‘Mine’ i.e. ‘My mother, my
should be strenuous. father’ etc. But, this feeling should not stop there. Look at Sun, Moon, bounty of
Those who are harvest, and many. One should develop an emotion of ‘mine’ towards all these
industrious in student life including one’s ancestors like grandfather, great grandfather etc. Though the feeling of
and work hard in youth ‘I’, ‘My’, ‘Me’, ‘Mine’ is selfish, this quality is good in this context. This should expand
shall certainly enjoy their upto the feeling ‘My country’. Just like one gets angry when one’s parents are abused,
old age. Students should one should als o have same feeling when their country is abused.
always reference more Devotion towards one’s family is love whereas love towards one’s country is devotion.
books and discuss any This country has diverse traditions. Traditions and culture together form civilization.
hinderances with Our country is far civilized much earlier than many other countries. English people,
teachers and bright who made us slaves few centuries ago, tried hard to eliminate patriotism. During the
fellow students. For a course of those efforts, they changed our entire system of
better and beautiful education. Putting aside our history since Kalpa times terming as
future for oneself and mythology, new history is created without any proper research and
many others, one should taught. Despite all these, due to some great patriots of those times,
organize their student life it was not possible for them to completely eradicate the culture of
methodically. this country. Sacrifices and emotions of many that this great
Let’s prostrate to the country of ours should remain as is, finally got us freedom.
wisdom of our great Foremost goal of freedom is to safeguard the culture of this country.
Maharshis who laid out But, many percentages of later people didn’t have veneration upon our culture.
what needs to be done in Britishers of those days called our traditional wear uncivilized. But, those devoted
student life with such towards this country never altered them. Even a child of today’s generation studying
great clarity! “ LKG insults our traditional wear. At least now, children should transform. That
- Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma. transformation can only come, provided they know the greatness of our culture.
VIJÑĀNAṀ -2
SLOKA OF THE MONTH
1. Before leaving to forests, to whom did Sri Rama say that He is not
namaḥ śivāya śāntāya zealous about wealth?
2. Where did Sri Krishna mention that He is the month of Margaseersha
sagaṇāyādihētavē |
among all the months?
rudrāya viṣṇavē tubhyaṁ 3. What are known as the limbs of Vedas i.e. Vedangas?
brahmaṇē sūryamūrtayē ॥ 4. What is the name of the Lord in Kasi?
5. Which God graced devotee Pundarika?
6. What is the color of Saraswati Devi?
7. What does Shanmukha hold as His flag?
8. Which king performed the marriage of Krishna with Satyabhama?
9. Who is venerated with ‘Lambodara-Lakumikara…’?
10. What is the relationship between Vishwamitra and Bharata?
VIJÑĀNAṀ -1 Answers - 1.To lift the bow of Vishnu in his possession. 2. Veda Vyasa and
WORDS OF BENEVOLENCE Ghrutaachi. 3. Aspect of Siva. 4. Hanuman 5. Dwaraka Nagara 6. Priest of Janaka 7.
Gandhara Desa 8. Padmasana 9. Brother and sister relation 10. Stealing the Vedas.
bhavanti namrāstaravaḥ phalōdgamaiḥ
navāmbubhiḥ dūravilambinō ghanāḥ |
anurthatāḥ satpuruṣāḥ samrd'dhibhiḥ Pan̄ ca Kṣētrāṇi
svabhāva ēvaiṣa parōpakāriṇām ||
1. Śrīśailaṁ
Trees bend down even more when there are more fruits.
Clouds full of rain waters spread very far in the sky. 2. Kāśī
Similarly, the virous, though become more affluent, 3. Kēdāramu
never become haughty, but remain humble and never 4. Śrīkāḷahasti
leave generosity. This is the true nature of those who 5. Paṭṭisamu
help others.
∞+π
0 AT≜ ∑
Vedic mathematics
Vedic Mathematics is an area, where the knowledge of Sanatana Dharma ranges from simple concepts that are
useful to commoners such as householders and traders, to thorough actuarial calculations and distinct metrics
applicable to administrators and rulers, to very profound and astounding scientific revelations satisfying the quest
of rationale seeking economists. Even modern-day historians concluded that the introduction of the concept of ‘Pi’
and ‘Zero’ is the contribution of Bhārata. Based on Sthāpatya Vēda, a limb of Atharvana Vēda, Sri Bharati Krishna
Tīrtha of Sri Adi Sankara lineage authored ‘Vedic Mathematics’ in 1884 in Sanskrit. This work contains many
theorems and aphorisms about different branches of Mathematics. Works like King Bhoja’s ‘Samarangana
Sutradhara’, ‘Yantrarnavam’, ‘Amshubodhini’ etc. narrate in great detail the concepts of mathematics, machines
manufacturing, Sun’s rays, and their applicability respectively. All these works are directly based on the Vedas and
extensively quote from Vedas. Similarly, Mihira’s ‘Jalargala Sastra’ and ‘Shilpa Sastra’, the science of sculpture are
completely based on Vedic mathematics. It’s pleasure to introduce ‘Vedic Mathematics’ Sutras to solve complex
problems. Children and parents are requested to avail this opportunity.
Our gratitude and sincere thanks to Sri Dr. R.V.S.S. Avadhanulu garu for his kind consent to publish these
‘Sutras’ from his research publications.
ANTYAYŌRDASAKĒPI
MULTIPLICATIONS – 2
SUTRA: ANTYAYŌRDASAKĒPI
Meaning: WHEN THE SUM OF THE DIGITS IN UNITS PLACE IS 10
Details: This method is applicable when
(i) the sum of the digits in units place is 10
(ii) the digits in the higher places (on LHS) of both the numbers are same
Example 1 : 43 X 47 =? 43 X
47
__________ __________________
____
__________ __________________
1. The digits in the units place of both the given numbers are 3 and 7 respectively. Adding them, we get 3 + 7 = 10
2. The digits in the 10’s place (on LHS) of both the numbers are 4 only
3. Initially: 3 X 7 = 21
4. Ekadhika: 4 + 1 = 5
5. Next: 4 X 5 = 20
6. Result: 43 X 47 = 20 | 21 = 2021
Example 2 : 74 X 76 =? 74 X
76
_________________________ FILL IN THE BLANKS
____
__________________________
1. The digits in the units place of both the given numbers are 3 and 7 respectively.
22 X 28 = _______
Adding them, we get 4 + 6 = 10

33 X 37 = _______
2. The digits in the 10’s place (on LHS) of both the numbers are 7 only
3. Initially: 4 X 6 = 24 56 X 54 = _______
4. Ekadhika: 7 + 1 = 8
65 X 65 = _______
5. Next: 7 X 8 = 56
6. Result: 74 X 76 = 56 | 24 = 5624 81 X 89 = _______
(Sutras adapted from ‘Vedic Mathematics – 1’ www.shrivedabharathi.in ) (To be continued...)

Siva Leelas in Mahabharata
During the Shanti and Anusasanika parvaas, Bhishma imparts lot of knowledge to Yudhishthira while lying on the
bed of arrows. After Bhishma recites the entire Vishnu Sahasranamas to the Pandavas,
Yudhishthira wishes to hear the Siva Sahasram as well. Then Bhishma explains that the
best person to recite those was Lord Krishna Himself. Lord Krishna then begins by telling
about His teacher who imparted this knowledge to Him. Krishna talks about how once
He went to the Himalaya mountain range to pray to Lord Siva. He then reached a divine
Rishi’s hermitage. In that hermitage, there were many beautiful gardens within which
there were small huts. There were many Divine Rishis who were practicing tapas there.
The aura there was so divine that even snakes were playing with mongoose, their natural
enemy. This description shows that the divine aura of all the Rishis performing tapas
created a peaceful and blissful atmosphere in the entire Ashrama. It should be duly noted that an ‘Ashrama’ is
not just a single Rishi who has “run” away from the cities to perform tapas. It is a huge settlement which
consists of hundreds of rishis who, with the aid of the main single rishi, perform many yagnas, yagas, and
tapas for the well being of the entire world.
Lord Krishna went to the home of that main rishi, whose name is Upamanyu
Maharshi. He bowed down to Upamanyu Maharshi. Upamanyu Maharshi In one of the necessary
became extremely happy to see that Lord Krishna, who was the incarnation duties prescribed to man,
of Lord Vishnu had arrived at his ashrama and that He Himself had bowed Bhagavan tells us to pray to
down to him due to the dharma of His avatara. The answer to the question the Lord. However, if He is
of why Lord Krishna bowed down to Upamanyu Maharshi is revealed in the
to lead by example, because
Aswametha parva. Arjuna asks Lord Krishna why he prays when he has no
necessity to do so. Krishna explains that He prays to the Lord, He bows down He cannot worship Himself
to His parents, etc., because He is required to do so by the form of a man to set an ideal, He is
which He had taken up and setup an example to all men. Otherwise, why worshipping Lord Siva who
would He, the creator of the entire universe need to bow down to Devaki is different form of Himself,
and Vasudeva in reverence and call them His creators? It is for this same but not at all different from
reason that He also learned the sixty-four forms of education in sixty-four
Him in tattva. This is why
days. He does all of this so that He can lead by example. In one of the
necessary duties prescribed to man, Bhagavan tells us to pray to the Lord.
Upamanyu says that the
However, if He is to lead by example, because He cannot worship Himself only reason Lord Krishna
to set an ideal, He is worshipping Lord Siva who is different form of Himself, came to him was because
but not at all different from Him in tattva. This is why Upamanyu says that any puja must be started
the only reason Lord Krishna came to him was because any puja must be with the blessings of a guru.
started with the blessings of a guru. Upamanyu rishi then told Krishna that
this was the perfect place to pray to Lord Siva, as Siva had promised Upamanyu that Siva himself along with Mother
Parvati and all His troops shall always be in Upamanyu’s ashrama. Many people such as Indra, Anasuya Devi,
Yagnavalkya, Maharshi Veda Vyasa, Rishi Vaalakhilya, Savarna Rishi etc. performed tapas in that location. These
people went there to perform tapas not only for obtaining boons, but also to get relief from their curses. Along with
all these, the presiding deity of milky ocean ‘Kshira Samudra Adhidevata’ also resides in Maharshi Upamanyu’s
ashrama. She provides milk that is equivalent to nectar. - Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
(Adapted from ‘Mahabharatam lo Siva Leelalu’ Pravachanam) (To be continued...)
Readers Question(s)
Arjuna once went to Swarga and spent one full year with Indra. But in Swargarohana Parva, only Dharmaraja
could reach Swarga and Arjuna fell on the way. Why? – Bhaskararao.
After completing intense tapas with severe austerities and acquiring the
‘Pasupataastra’ with the darshan and blessings of Mahadeva Siva, Arjuna
went to Swarga and spent time with Indra for an entire year. In
Swargarohana parva, the Pandavas along with Draupadi leave Hastinapura
and start walking towards the Himalayas, from where they go into the
planes of Yoga. First, as they walk Draupadi falls down, Yuddhistira then
tells others the reason for Draupadi’s fall. Because, she was partial towards
Arjuna out of all of her husbands, she fell. Next, Sahadeva fell, because he
felt that there was no one smarter than him. Nakula fell later, as he believed
that there was no one more beautiful than him. Arjuna fell afterwards,
because he believed that there was no one better than him at archery i.e. the
Dhanurvidya, due to which he insulted others dhanurdharaas. He also
vowed that he would destroy the entire Kaurava army in a single day.
However, he was incapable of doing that, hence he broke his vow. Bhima
fell last, because he could never control his emotion for revenge, eat
excessively, and was very haughty. Thus, all of the Pandavas except for
Yudhisthira had flaws in them, that caused their fall before reaching Swarga
mortally.
‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ Aarshavani- Samavedam Shanmukha
Vol. 5 – March | 2019 Sarma.
17
Announcements
organized by Rushipeetham Charitable Trust under the guidance
of Dr. Gayatri Devi garu on March 2, 2019 6:30 pm, Kowtha Kamakoti Kalyana Mandapam, Padmarao
Nagar, Hyderabad. For details please contact 011 91 40 27134557 or 011 91 40 27132550
to Sri Annadanam Chidambara Sastri garu.

Award ceremony on March 3, 2019 6:30 pm, Kowtha Kamakoti Kalyana Mandapam, Padmarao Nagar,
Hyderabad.
For ease of availability and convenience to admirers of Rushipeetham all over the world, Rushipeetham
started an online store for purchases of Rushipeetham books, publications and audios/videos of Brahmasri
Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma garu pravachanams. Upon request,
o Books and CDs will be mailed to any valid postal address in India.
o Books and CDs can be download as PDF files and MP3 respectively.
o For details please visit https://rushipeetham.com/rushipeetham-store/?v=7516fd43adaa
For Rushipeetham Monthly Digest, please visit

https://rushipeetham.org/monthlydigest/RushipeethamDigestFeb2019.pdf
For ‘Aarshavani’ archives please visit https://rushipeetham.org/aarshavani-newsletters/
For Pravachanam CDs, ‘Rushipeetham’ Magazine subscription, other publications contact –

Hyderabad Visakhapatnam Tirupati
Plot# 1-19-46, Mr Rajasekhar Madhira Smt. Vanam Sasikala
H.I.G. A -40 D.No:49-36-8, 18-12-1710,
Dr. A S Rao Nagar Flat No:402, Khadi Colony,
Secunderabad Pingali paradise, NGO Tirupati.
Ph: 7659927777
Telangana - 500062. Colony, Akkayyapalem,
Ph: 040-27134557 Visakhapatnam-530016,
27132550 Ph: 9989991112,
7331115666
Please visit https://rushipeetham.org/subscription/
https://rushipeetham.com/
http://saamavedam.org/
Sri Vallabha Ganapati Mandir, Konthamuru, Rajamahendravaram

Sri Vallabha Ganapathi temple, Konthamuru Rajahmundry
Devotees interested in sending contributions to the temple –
BANK ACCOUNT NAME: MANDIR MAINTENANCE TRUST
ACCOUNT Number: 62507680499;
BANK NAME: STATE BANK OF INDIA;
Name of the BRANCH: KONTHAMURU;
IFS CODE NUMBER: SBIN0021806; MICR CODE: 533004108;
Nature of Account: CURRENT ACCOUNT
For new donations and those who donated, please drop an email Contact details: Address: Sri Vallabha Ganapathi Trust,
with donation details at vallabhaganapathitrust@ gmail.com Near Kalyana Nagar Arch, Jangala Colony Road, Siva
For details, contact Sistu Rama Sastry @ 9652815577 Kumar Layout, Konthamuru, Rajahmundry, Andhra
Pradesh – 533103; Ph# 9949705166 / 9542122189
Darshan timings: Morning 6 am – 11 am; Evening 5 pm – 7 pm For details, please visit www.vallabhaganapathimandir.org
‘SamavEdam SHaNmukHa SaRma’ SamuHAM

TELEGRAM group
During these turbulent times when Hindu Dharma is being attacked from all sides, Dharma propagation has become altogether more
important than ever. Technological advances have been a great propeller to make everyone aware of the greatness of Hindu Dharma. The
‘Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma’ Facebook page and YouTube channel successfully reached many aspirants and received many accolades.
With the intention of reaching everyone and also be reachable to everyone, this Telegram group named ‘Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma’
is being started. Using this Telegram group as channel, my will is to get more close to multitudes living in villages. To make this a reality,
it is the responsibility of all of you to drive all your contacts to join this group. Those interested in joining this group should click the
link join SamavedamTelegram. There is no limit to how many can join this group. I will be sending one or two messages daily on
Sanatana Dharma. Looking forward to get even more close to all of you and many others. Truly Yours,
Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
Rushipeetham
Puraskara Pradanotsavam
‘Rushipeetham Charitable Trust’ is a knowledge-based organization dedicated towards the ‘Rushipeetham Puraskaram’ Award Recipient
Organized By veneration of Bharatiya Arsha Samskruti. This magazine is the soul of Bharatiya. This organization ‘Sahitya Vidya Pravena, Hanumadjnanavetta, vaidyavidvan’
Rushipeetham Charitable Trust is not only successfully propagating the Dharma and Knowledge of Sanatana Dharma along with Dr. Annadanam Chidambara Sastry
the publication of CDs and books, it is also effective in organizing many other service activities.
▪ Propagate the knowledge of Bharata, encourage all kinds of ‘Arsha Vidya’, distributing Sri Annadanam Chidambara Sastry garu is a versatile
educational scholarships to worthy poor students, organize camps facilitating the reach of Ayurveda scholar in both Sanskrit and Telugu. A great individual who
benefits to commoners dedicated his life towards the endeavor of protecting
▪ Uninterruptedly performing the protection and support of ‘Gosalas’ thereby increasing the Dharma with complete comprehension about Sanatana
number of cows, and virtuous activities such as service to medical education etc. Dharma. Born in 1949, he is still relentlessly carrying out
Facilitating renowned scholars adept in ‘Arsha Vidyas’ of Bharata every year with distinguished award, virtuous deeds such as lectures, authoring works, upasana,
‘Rushipeetham Charitable Trust’ is blessed in the worship of Samskruti Bharati. and social service very effectively. Apart from composing
Facilitating Vaidya Vidwan, Sahitya Vidya Praveena poems and hymns, he authored ‘Hindu Dharma
Dr. Annadanam Chidambara Sastry garu Sarvaswamu’, ‘Parasara Samhita Parisodhana’, and
Renowned for Scholarship, Knowledge of Hanuman, Renaissance of Dharma, and Resoluteness in
‘Hanumacchatakmu’ in illustrative poetic style
Tapas with illustrious ‘Rushipeetham Puraskaram’ award in 2019
propagating dharma and jnana. He established
All well-wishers are cordially invited to participate in this function ‘Hanumannavatara’ i.e. the depiction of nine
rendering service towards Arsha Vidya manifestations of Hanuman in Ongole. As an academician,
President he worked in higher capacities. Being austere and resolute
in his worship of Hanuman, he earned reputation as being
Samanvaya Saraswati, Arshadharmopanyasa Kesari the authoritative repository of knowledge about
Brahmasri Dr.Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma Hanuman. Along with literary scholarship, he is recognized
President – Rushipeetham Charitable Trust for his knowledge of medicine. As a preceptor, he trained
many disciples. With his intellect, he can analyze and
elucidate the intricacies of Arsha Dharma.
Chief Guest Distinguished Guest Invited by: ‘Rushipeetham’ Executive Committee

Nuti Ramamohanarao Brahmasri Kauta Lalitamanohar
‘Rushipeetham Puraskaram’ Award Recipient Chairman and Managing Trustee:
Brahmasri Dr. Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma garu
‘Sahitya Vidya Praveena, Hanumadjnanavetta, Vaidyavidvan’ Trustee: Sri Marepalli Suryanarayana garu
Sri Annadanam Chidambara Sastry ‘Rushipeetham Puraskaram’ Award Recipient

‘Sahitya Vidya Praveena, Hanumadjnanavetta, aidyavidvan’
Dr. Annadanam Chidambara Sastry
ALL ARE WELCOME ALL ARE WELCOME

PHOTO GALLERY
v
Panchamukha Anjaneya Pratishtapana and Fourth Anniversary of Sri Vallabha Ganapati Temple
pictures
Navama Veturi Kavita Puraskara

To
Pravachanams at Ongole Brahmasri Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma garu
DISCLAIMER: This is not a SPAM. You have received this e-mail, because you have shown interest in the renaissance of Sanatana Dharma by
Brahmasri Dr.Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma garu through pravachanams, ‘Rushipeetham’ magazine, writings, books, temple renovation and
construction, Sri Vallabha Ganapati temple Rajahmundry, ‘Go Seva’, charitable activities, Yagas and Yajñas, ‘Siva Pad am’ concerts and dance dramas
etc., Please forward this e-mail only in UN-EDITED format. For more details, please visit http://saamavedam.org or http://rushipeetham.org
https://www.facebook.com/BramhasriSamavedamShanmukhaSarmaOfficialPage https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUuZr7RU7GTW7iN-vi5tLRg
To subscribe: https://tinyurl.com/yamlpln7

Язык

Добро пожаловать в Scribd!

AarshaVani-March2019

Загружено:

Сведения о документе

Описание:

Дата загрузки

Авторское право

Доступные форматы

Поделиться этим документом

Поделиться или встроить документ

Параметры публикации

Этот документ был вам полезен?

Это неприемлемый материал?

Описание:

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

AarshaVani-March2019

Загружено:

Описание:

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Похожие издания

Aarsha Vani

(Voice of Sanatana Dharma)

March 2019 Volume: 5 Issue: 02

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Dear Readers,

quality of tamas is exceedingly exposing, entire universe is destroyed and Traditions-Fulfilments

Gaṅgātīra nitya vihāra!

Maṇikarṇikādi tīrtha niṣēvita!

Dhanurākārānanda vanē ghanē Click to listen

EFFICACY OF SIVA’S PRASADAM

Copyright © 2019 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.

SIN OF ABUSING THE DEVOTEES OF SIVA

UPACHARAS TO SIVA AND MERITS THEREBY

EFFICACY OF BILVA TREE

1) puṇyatīrthāni yāvanti lōkēṣu prathitān'yapi tāni sarvāṇi tīrthāni bilvamūlē vasanti hi

2) bilvamūlē mahādēvaṁ liṅgarūpiṇamavyayaṁ |

3) bilvamūlē jalairyastu mūrthānamabhiṣin̄cati,

Copyright © 2019 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.

Garuda Purana also narrates the following –

Few chapters list the characteristic features of cows, horses, identification of

yathā surāṇāṁ pravarō janārdhanō yadāyudhānāṁ pravaraṁ sudarśanaṁ |

Copyright © 2019 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.

04.03.2019 – Monday Maha Sivaratri - Very efficacious day on which Paramasiva

dhātrīdēvi namastubhyaṁ sarvapāpa kṣayaṅkarī

Copyright © 2019 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.

- Scriptures also mention about entire community playing

- Worship Krishna’s child form ‘Bala Krishna’ or ‘Radha

- Kalyanam of Sri Minakshi and Sundareswara in Madurai is

21.03.2019 – Thursday – Vasantotsavam, consuming of mango flowering - Dharma scriptures prescribe

ēkasya tēsrcanāddēva pan̄cāyatana pūjanaṁ |

Copyright © 2019 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.

Is it not a sin to destroy temples?

Copyright © 2019 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.

What should we do? What is our responsibility?

Copyright © 2019 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.

‘bilvanāthā priyāyāstu nārāyaṇyāyā: tapōbalāt, bilvāraṇyaṁ phalatsadyalōkā: alakṣmī nivr̥ ttayē’ –

Efficacy and benefits of worshipping with Bilva leaves -

‘śrī yantraṁ bilvapatraistu śivaliṅgamathāpi vā yōrcayēdanvahaṁ bhaktyā

caṇḍī tvaccaraṇāmbujārcana vidhau bilvīdaḷōluṁṭhanāt

Copyright © 2019 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.

Copyright © 2019 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.

(Adapted from ‘Hindu Dharma Swaroopamu, Swabhavamu, Prabhavamu’ Pravachanam)

SANATANA DHARMA Hindu American Foundation launches ‘Shakti Initiative’

Virginia brewery apologizes for 'Hanuman' beer after Hindu protest

Copyright © 2019 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.

Adding them, we get 4 + 6 = 10

(Sutras adapted from ‘Vedic Mathematics – 1’ www.shrivedabharathi.in ) (To be continued...)

Copyright © 2019 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.

to Sri Annadanam Chidambara Sastri garu.

For Rushipeetham Monthly Digest, please visit

For ‘Aarshavani’ archives please visit https://rushipeetham.org/aarshavani-newsletters/

For Pravachanam CDs, ‘Rushipeetham’ Magazine subscription, other publications contact –

Sri Vallabha Ganapati Mandir, Konthamuru, Rajamahendravaram

‘SamavEdam SHaNmukHa SaRma’ SamuHAM

Chief Guest Distinguished Guest Invited by: ‘Rushipeetham’ Executive Committee

Sri Annadanam Chidambara Sastry ‘Rushipeetham Puraskaram’ Award Recipient

Copyright © 2019 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.

Navama Veturi Kavita Puraskara