Wednesday, December 20, 2006
BRAMMOPADESAM-SAMSKARA NO:8
UPA-NAYANAM-STARTING JOURNEY TOWARDS BRAHMAN.
Out of the 40 Samskarams ordained for us, Upa-Nayana Samskara is coming as the 8th Samskara. Samskara is nothing but the process of purifying and refining a person and making him fit for sadhana. Samskara literally means to do well. By Samskara we wanted to convert the prakruthi into Samskruthi and not as its opposite i.e Vikruthi . ( deformed/useless). Samskarams ( sacraments) purify and refine a human being making him fit for the life.
By Upa- Nayanam ( go nearer to )- it is generally understood that a guru leads the Vadu towards Brahman ( knowledge). It can also mean providing him with an additional eye i.e the eye of knowledge and wisdom. Some opine that by Upanayana - also mean the beginning of formal education. We know that like Brahmins, –Shaktriya , Vysya community people also perform this Upa-Nayana Karma.. It is stated that for the above three communities Upa-Nayana Samskara should be completed before the age of 8, 12, 16 respectively. Generally this samskaram should be completed before the sexual feelings enter the mind of the boy. It is stated that for all the other three varna aasrama people Brahmin is the Guru. For Brahmin Agni Deva is the guru.
During the function the Guru asks the Vadu ( the Brahmachari) to stand firm over a granite Stone (Asma Aarohanam). He then blesses him stating that :-
“ You should become firm like this stone. Your determination should be like a stone. Your body /health should be like this stone. If any body is creating difficulties in your anushtanas you should fight against him and should drive him away.”
“He also informs the Vadu that you have now become a Brahmachari and hence you should perform the Sandhya Vandanam and other duties as ordained.”
During the upanayana the great Gayathri Mantra is imparted to the Brahmachari.. As Gayathri mantra upadesam is considered as the greatest of all upadesams this is called “Brahmopadesam”.
As mentioned in scriptures a Brahmachari has to do follow certain regulations.
They are: He should not sleep during the day time. He should not use cosmetics and other perfume items. He should not closely mingle with ladies. He should not be interested in beautifying his body. He should not see dances etc. He should not show interest in unnecessary wordly pleasures and gossip. He should be calm and quite in his behaviour .He should be a very determined in his mind and should not be lazy. Sandhya Vandanam- Gayathri Japa- Upaakarma etc. are the ordained ANUSHTANAS- which would lead and take the Brahmachari to right path.
In Upanayana Samskara the following procedures are generally followed:
1. ANUKJNA- ( Permission from elders).
2. VIGNESWARA POOJA
3. SANKALPA
4. UDAKA SHANTHI - PUNYAKA VACHANAM- MANTRA JAPA
5. ANKURA ARPANAM ( Germination of seeds in the palikas)
6. PRADHI SARA BHANDAM ( Kankana Dharanam)
7. ABHYUDHAYA SRAADHAM ( NAANDHI)
( The above mentioned functions are usually done in the previous day- as-POORVANGA)
(UTTARANGA PRAYOGA):-
8. SEEKING PERMISSION FROM ELDERS TO PERFORM THE
KARMA
9. VIGNESWARA POOJA
10. UPANAYANA SANKALPA
11. PUNYAAHAM ( Purification function)
12. GRAHA PREETHI DHANAM ( for removal of all dhosha)
13. YAGNOPA DHAARANAM ( Wearing of Sacred thread)
14. KUMARA BHOJANAM ( Feeding the vadu ) Food prepared should be without salt and chillies – preferably rice mixed with dhal/ghee/milk etc.
15. VAPANAM ( Tonsuring of hair by the Kartha .Here the kartha prays to devathas like, Vayu, Adhithi, Varunan, Poosha, Brihaspathi, Agni etc to give poorna Ayu: to the vadu, along with name, fame, and all good fortunes
16. ASMA AAROHANAM ( Brahmachari is asked to place his right foot firm on the stone, while the guru prays for his well being.)
17. BRAHMACHARYA AASRAMA VASTRA DHARANAM- KUTTA VASTRAM MADE OF COTTON- MEKHALA MADE OF DHARBA GRASS- ( GIRDLE MADE OF MUNJA GRASS TIED ROUND THE WAIST-(Mounjibandhana) KRISHAAJINAM- SKIN OF BLACK ANTELOPE. (wearing as upper cloth) (Wearing of the above are done by asking the vadu to stand on the stone Here again the guru prays for the well being health, long life for the the Vadu)
18. BRAHMACHARI- IS ASKED TO STAND ON DARBA GRASS AND
THE KARTHA IS HANDS OVER THE VADU THROUGH TO DEVATHAS LIKE AGNI, SOMA, SAVITHA,SARAWATHI, MRUTHYU,YAMA, GADAN, JALA , EARTH, VAISWANARA, OUSHADHI DEVATHAS etc. HE ALSO PRAYS FOR PROTECTION OF THE VADU TILL HE COMPLETES BRAHMACHARYA AASRAMA.
19.. VADU SEEKS MANTRA UPADESA – GURU -VADU QUESTION ANSWER SESSION FOLLOWS..GURU SEEKS THE BLESSINGS OF SUN GOD AND PRAY FOR PROTECTION OF THE VADU.
20. UPANAYANA HOMAM- ( in this homa the guru and Vadu both pray the devathas like Agni, Varunan, Angirasar, Saptharishees, Prajapathi etc seeking life to the vadu till his son begets grand children. Here Prayer is also made for acquisition of knowledge, removal of dhosha, for achievement of all desires. Etc.
21. JAYATHI HOMA: ( This homa is performed for completion and fulfillment of all desires and attainment of good results from the karma)
22. BHAHMMOPADESA- MUHURTHA- TAKING UP OF PALASA DHANDA
PLEDGE TO PROTECT VEDAS. VADU ALSO TAKES VARIOUS OTHER PLEDGES RELATING TO BRAHMACHARYA AASRAMA-( DO’S AND DON’TS.)( Vadu Seeks SAVITHREEM BHO ANU BRUHI
Gayathri mantra consists of Omkara- Vyakruthees, and Savithri Mantra)
23. GURU DAKSHINA- SOORYA DARSANAM - WITH MANTRA-GURU ACCEPTS THE VADU AS HIS SISHYA.
24... SAMITHA DHAANAM ( homa in the Agni with Samith)
25... BHIKSHA AACHARANAM
26. GURU’S ORDER TO FOLLOW DO’S AND DON’T IN BRAHMACHARYA VRATHAM- AND SISHYA’S PLEDGE AND ACCEPTANCE.
27. MAHA AASIRVADAM.
28. AARATHI- SWASTHI VACHANAM
29.. FOURTH DAY AFTER THE FUNCTION PRANAVA SRADHAA-MEDHAA POOJA- (VIGNEWARA POOJA- PUNYAAHM- NOOTHANA VASTRA DHAARANAM-GIVING THE OLD ONE TO THE GURU- CHANGING OF YAGNOPAVEETHAM AND LEARNING OF SRADHAA AND MEDHAA SOOKTHA JAPAM..
30. PAALIKA VISARJANAM AT AN AUSPISIOUS TIME.
============================================================
NOTE: To be eligible to learn veda one has to complete the samskara of upanayana. Borne to a mother is called first life. After Mounjee Dhaaranam that is after handing over the vadu to veda matha his second life starts. For the ladies in the upanayana place, marriage has been equated.
For Anukura arpanam the following seeds are usually used. Paddy, Green Gram, Tor gram, Karamani, Mocha-Avara muster seeds( other seeds are optional)
Snaanam Sandhya Japo Homa: Devathanam cha poojanam
Aadithyam Vaiswadevam cha Shad Karmarni Dine Dine.
(Purification of the body and mind by taking bath, doing Sandhya japa, performing homa as ordained for the particular aasrama dharma, worship of God, doing adhithi Sat Kara, and performing baliharana are considered as 6 daily duties )
What we receive by understanding , and listening with concentration - the veda mantras - is removal of darkness from the mind.
For a pious persons life would be protected by truthfulness equated to mother, knowledge ( as father) Dharma ( as brother) kindness ( as friend) peace and tranquility ( as wife) patience ( as his son)
For Yajur veda Sakha followers Venus should not be setting while choosing the Muhurta for Upanayana, Marriage etc. as Venus is considered as Yajur Veda Sakha Adhipathi..
By which act or Karma an Acharya draws a Sishya towards him for imparting knowledge of Veda is called upanayana.
Gayathri is mother of all vedic mantras. It contain 3 feet, of 8 syllables with 24 letters. Nijruth Gayathri contain only 23 letters. ( Tripada Gayathri)
Gayathri Mantra :Omkaram -Vyakruthees -Savithri Mantra
Period : Morning- Noon -Evening
Kanamal- Konamal -Kandu
(before sun rise) (straight above the head) ( before sunset)
Devathas for different periods:Gayathri Savithri Saraswathi
Vishnu Brahma Siva
Who are eligible :Brahmana- Skhatriya -Vysya
Rik Veda Yajur Veda SamaVeda
For Rik , Yajus, Samavedees Gayathri is the same. For Atharva vedees there is a separate Gayathri. To Chant that Gayathri or to learn Atharva veda one has to go through separate upanayana function. The Three strands stand for the three Vedas- thereby reminding us that one has to study them and incorporate their message in his life.
The Three strands also represent purity and control of Body, Speech and Mind/
The Word Savita means God the creator. He is the supreme Lord residing in the heart of the sun. The Savitri Mantra was revealed to he sage Visvamitra for the first time in the Vedic metre known as the GAYATHRI. Hence this mantra is popularly known as Gayathri Mantra.
The rishi for the mantra is sage Viswamitra.
The Sacred thread is a thread with three strands and each strand containing three threads. Thus the nine threads represent nine deities i.e Earth, Water, Agni, Air, Aakasa, prana,Aatman, Antarathman, and Paramatman. The three strands are bind by a knot which symbolize pranavam ( AUM) or Brahma Knot.
Wearing of this holy thread has a purificatory effect and is reported to have come along with the Brahma. Long life, Success in every field, Knowledge, Wisdom, Tejas, Strength etc etc. can be obtained by wearing this holy thread and following the dharma as ordained.
Four Veda Vrathas are stipulated in the Brahmacharya Aasrama- they are Prajapathyam, Soumyam, Aagneyam, Vaiswadevam. These four forms part of the forty Samskaras. ( i.e 9 to 12)
( Subham Asthu)
.
Out of the 40 Samskarams ordained for us, Upa-Nayana Samskara is coming as the 8th Samskara. Samskara is nothing but the process of purifying and refining a person and making him fit for sadhana. Samskara literally means to do well. By Samskara we wanted to convert the prakruthi into Samskruthi and not as its opposite i.e Vikruthi . ( deformed/useless). Samskarams ( sacraments) purify and refine a human being making him fit for the life.
By Upa- Nayanam ( go nearer to )- it is generally understood that a guru leads the Vadu towards Brahman ( knowledge). It can also mean providing him with an additional eye i.e the eye of knowledge and wisdom. Some opine that by Upanayana - also mean the beginning of formal education. We know that like Brahmins, –Shaktriya , Vysya community people also perform this Upa-Nayana Karma.. It is stated that for the above three communities Upa-Nayana Samskara should be completed before the age of 8, 12, 16 respectively. Generally this samskaram should be completed before the sexual feelings enter the mind of the boy. It is stated that for all the other three varna aasrama people Brahmin is the Guru. For Brahmin Agni Deva is the guru.
During the function the Guru asks the Vadu ( the Brahmachari) to stand firm over a granite Stone (Asma Aarohanam). He then blesses him stating that :-
“ You should become firm like this stone. Your determination should be like a stone. Your body /health should be like this stone. If any body is creating difficulties in your anushtanas you should fight against him and should drive him away.”
“He also informs the Vadu that you have now become a Brahmachari and hence you should perform the Sandhya Vandanam and other duties as ordained.”
During the upanayana the great Gayathri Mantra is imparted to the Brahmachari.. As Gayathri mantra upadesam is considered as the greatest of all upadesams this is called “Brahmopadesam”.
As mentioned in scriptures a Brahmachari has to do follow certain regulations.
They are: He should not sleep during the day time. He should not use cosmetics and other perfume items. He should not closely mingle with ladies. He should not be interested in beautifying his body. He should not see dances etc. He should not show interest in unnecessary wordly pleasures and gossip. He should be calm and quite in his behaviour .He should be a very determined in his mind and should not be lazy. Sandhya Vandanam- Gayathri Japa- Upaakarma etc. are the ordained ANUSHTANAS- which would lead and take the Brahmachari to right path.
In Upanayana Samskara the following procedures are generally followed:
1. ANUKJNA- ( Permission from elders).
2. VIGNESWARA POOJA
3. SANKALPA
4. UDAKA SHANTHI - PUNYAKA VACHANAM- MANTRA JAPA
5. ANKURA ARPANAM ( Germination of seeds in the palikas)
6. PRADHI SARA BHANDAM ( Kankana Dharanam)
7. ABHYUDHAYA SRAADHAM ( NAANDHI)
( The above mentioned functions are usually done in the previous day- as-POORVANGA)
(UTTARANGA PRAYOGA):-
8. SEEKING PERMISSION FROM ELDERS TO PERFORM THE
KARMA
9. VIGNESWARA POOJA
10. UPANAYANA SANKALPA
11. PUNYAAHAM ( Purification function)
12. GRAHA PREETHI DHANAM ( for removal of all dhosha)
13. YAGNOPA DHAARANAM ( Wearing of Sacred thread)
14. KUMARA BHOJANAM ( Feeding the vadu ) Food prepared should be without salt and chillies – preferably rice mixed with dhal/ghee/milk etc.
15. VAPANAM ( Tonsuring of hair by the Kartha .Here the kartha prays to devathas like, Vayu, Adhithi, Varunan, Poosha, Brihaspathi, Agni etc to give poorna Ayu: to the vadu, along with name, fame, and all good fortunes
16. ASMA AAROHANAM ( Brahmachari is asked to place his right foot firm on the stone, while the guru prays for his well being.)
17. BRAHMACHARYA AASRAMA VASTRA DHARANAM- KUTTA VASTRAM MADE OF COTTON- MEKHALA MADE OF DHARBA GRASS- ( GIRDLE MADE OF MUNJA GRASS TIED ROUND THE WAIST-(Mounjibandhana) KRISHAAJINAM- SKIN OF BLACK ANTELOPE. (wearing as upper cloth) (Wearing of the above are done by asking the vadu to stand on the stone Here again the guru prays for the well being health, long life for the the Vadu)
18. BRAHMACHARI- IS ASKED TO STAND ON DARBA GRASS AND
THE KARTHA IS HANDS OVER THE VADU THROUGH TO DEVATHAS LIKE AGNI, SOMA, SAVITHA,SARAWATHI, MRUTHYU,YAMA, GADAN, JALA , EARTH, VAISWANARA, OUSHADHI DEVATHAS etc. HE ALSO PRAYS FOR PROTECTION OF THE VADU TILL HE COMPLETES BRAHMACHARYA AASRAMA.
19.. VADU SEEKS MANTRA UPADESA – GURU -VADU QUESTION ANSWER SESSION FOLLOWS..GURU SEEKS THE BLESSINGS OF SUN GOD AND PRAY FOR PROTECTION OF THE VADU.
20. UPANAYANA HOMAM- ( in this homa the guru and Vadu both pray the devathas like Agni, Varunan, Angirasar, Saptharishees, Prajapathi etc seeking life to the vadu till his son begets grand children. Here Prayer is also made for acquisition of knowledge, removal of dhosha, for achievement of all desires. Etc.
21. JAYATHI HOMA: ( This homa is performed for completion and fulfillment of all desires and attainment of good results from the karma)
22. BHAHMMOPADESA- MUHURTHA- TAKING UP OF PALASA DHANDA
PLEDGE TO PROTECT VEDAS. VADU ALSO TAKES VARIOUS OTHER PLEDGES RELATING TO BRAHMACHARYA AASRAMA-( DO’S AND DON’TS.)( Vadu Seeks SAVITHREEM BHO ANU BRUHI
Gayathri mantra consists of Omkara- Vyakruthees, and Savithri Mantra)
23. GURU DAKSHINA- SOORYA DARSANAM - WITH MANTRA-GURU ACCEPTS THE VADU AS HIS SISHYA.
24... SAMITHA DHAANAM ( homa in the Agni with Samith)
25... BHIKSHA AACHARANAM
26. GURU’S ORDER TO FOLLOW DO’S AND DON’T IN BRAHMACHARYA VRATHAM- AND SISHYA’S PLEDGE AND ACCEPTANCE.
27. MAHA AASIRVADAM.
28. AARATHI- SWASTHI VACHANAM
29.. FOURTH DAY AFTER THE FUNCTION PRANAVA SRADHAA-MEDHAA POOJA- (VIGNEWARA POOJA- PUNYAAHM- NOOTHANA VASTRA DHAARANAM-GIVING THE OLD ONE TO THE GURU- CHANGING OF YAGNOPAVEETHAM AND LEARNING OF SRADHAA AND MEDHAA SOOKTHA JAPAM..
30. PAALIKA VISARJANAM AT AN AUSPISIOUS TIME.
============================================================
NOTE: To be eligible to learn veda one has to complete the samskara of upanayana. Borne to a mother is called first life. After Mounjee Dhaaranam that is after handing over the vadu to veda matha his second life starts. For the ladies in the upanayana place, marriage has been equated.
For Anukura arpanam the following seeds are usually used. Paddy, Green Gram, Tor gram, Karamani, Mocha-Avara muster seeds( other seeds are optional)
Snaanam Sandhya Japo Homa: Devathanam cha poojanam
Aadithyam Vaiswadevam cha Shad Karmarni Dine Dine.
(Purification of the body and mind by taking bath, doing Sandhya japa, performing homa as ordained for the particular aasrama dharma, worship of God, doing adhithi Sat Kara, and performing baliharana are considered as 6 daily duties )
What we receive by understanding , and listening with concentration - the veda mantras - is removal of darkness from the mind.
For a pious persons life would be protected by truthfulness equated to mother, knowledge ( as father) Dharma ( as brother) kindness ( as friend) peace and tranquility ( as wife) patience ( as his son)
For Yajur veda Sakha followers Venus should not be setting while choosing the Muhurta for Upanayana, Marriage etc. as Venus is considered as Yajur Veda Sakha Adhipathi..
By which act or Karma an Acharya draws a Sishya towards him for imparting knowledge of Veda is called upanayana.
Gayathri is mother of all vedic mantras. It contain 3 feet, of 8 syllables with 24 letters. Nijruth Gayathri contain only 23 letters. ( Tripada Gayathri)
Gayathri Mantra :Omkaram -Vyakruthees -Savithri Mantra
Period : Morning- Noon -Evening
Kanamal- Konamal -Kandu
(before sun rise) (straight above the head) ( before sunset)
Devathas for different periods:Gayathri Savithri Saraswathi
Vishnu Brahma Siva
Who are eligible :Brahmana- Skhatriya -Vysya
Rik Veda Yajur Veda SamaVeda
For Rik , Yajus, Samavedees Gayathri is the same. For Atharva vedees there is a separate Gayathri. To Chant that Gayathri or to learn Atharva veda one has to go through separate upanayana function. The Three strands stand for the three Vedas- thereby reminding us that one has to study them and incorporate their message in his life.
The Three strands also represent purity and control of Body, Speech and Mind/
The Word Savita means God the creator. He is the supreme Lord residing in the heart of the sun. The Savitri Mantra was revealed to he sage Visvamitra for the first time in the Vedic metre known as the GAYATHRI. Hence this mantra is popularly known as Gayathri Mantra.
The rishi for the mantra is sage Viswamitra.
The Sacred thread is a thread with three strands and each strand containing three threads. Thus the nine threads represent nine deities i.e Earth, Water, Agni, Air, Aakasa, prana,Aatman, Antarathman, and Paramatman. The three strands are bind by a knot which symbolize pranavam ( AUM) or Brahma Knot.
Wearing of this holy thread has a purificatory effect and is reported to have come along with the Brahma. Long life, Success in every field, Knowledge, Wisdom, Tejas, Strength etc etc. can be obtained by wearing this holy thread and following the dharma as ordained.
Four Veda Vrathas are stipulated in the Brahmacharya Aasrama- they are Prajapathyam, Soumyam, Aagneyam, Vaiswadevam. These four forms part of the forty Samskaras. ( i.e 9 to 12)
( Subham Asthu)
.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
SHANTHI KARMA -- SASHTI ABDHA POORTHI
SASHTI ABDHA POORTHI SHANTHI ( 60 TH BIRTH DAY )
During the life time of a person, especially from the 54th Birth day onwards Kaamyartha Prayaschitha Karma seeking good health, Veda Uktha Poorna Aayu: and remedy from all sins starts. Shaanthi at 54th Birth date is called Bheema Shaanthi. At 59th birth date another Shaanthi Yagna to be conducted called Ugra Ratha Shaanthi .When a person he or she is completing his/her 60 th birth day - on that date a shaanthi Yagna to be conducted with the help of learned vedic pandits- to ward off all evils that may affect the kartha in the continuing years. As reported in the sruthies, the following dushta grahaas like Kala yavana, yamala, sudoomra etc would create APA-MRUTHYU to the person concerned, as well as affect the health of his/her parents/ spouses children etc;. soon after the completion of his first cycle of Sashti Samvatsara. ( Our Samvatsara Cycle consists 60 years starting from Prabhava, Vibhava, etc. .In the cycle of years the current year is called “VYAYA:-up to say 14th of April-2007 ) To ward off from Bhootha- Pretha – Mruthyu Bhaya and to get rid of all sins acquired till then - this Kaamyartha Sashti Abdha Poorthi karma should be performed. During this shaanthi one also seek from the God- good health and poorna Aayu: for himself as well as for his family members.
After completion of morning rituals like Sandhya Vandanam /Bath etc (purfication functions) seek permission from the learned vedic pandits, for commencements of the function. “ANUKJNA” is followed by Vigneswara Pooja., Samkalpam. In the Samkalpa one prays for Health, Wealth, Prosperity, Poorna Aayu: He also prays for protection from bad effects due to bad viewership or bad positioning of the planets and other dushta grahas as stated earlier.
During the pooja the following deities are invoked either in the kalasams/Kumbhams or in the Mandalam .1. Indra 2. Agni 3. Yama 4. Nirruthi 5. Varunan 6. Vayu 7. Soman 8. Eesanan 9. Brahamma 10. Vishnu 11. Ugra Rathaakya Rudra ( Amrutha Mruthyunjayan)
Markandeyan, Saptha Rishies, Arunthathi, Sashti Samvatsara Devathas, Saptha Chiranjeevees, Nakshatra Devathas, Dhishanaam, Vrudha Matha, Gowri, Durga, Varunan, Mangala Devatha. Navagraha devathas etc.
After giving Graha Preethi Dhaana, Vaishnava Sraadham, Poorvanga Go Dhaana, (towards cow dhaana generally a coconut- along with money equivalent to the value of a cow is given to a purohit) etc. are performed ( as per the soothra they follow and Kula Aachara/Desa Aachara) Abyuthaya Sraadham ( Nandee Sraadham) is performed thereafter invoking the departed souls- called Sathya Vasu Samjnaka and seeking their blessings in advance.
Then follows Punya Aham, Acharya Varanam, Rithvik Varanam, Kalasa Sthapanam etc. Different methods are followed in Kalasa Sthapanam/ Mandala Sthapanam.
Where 60 kalasas are used, the devathas invoked in kalasas are under:-
Amrutha Mruthuyunjaya (1) Brahmma (1) Vishnu (1) Rudra (1) Markandeyan (1) For Ashta Dik Devathas like Indra etc (8) , Navagrahas (9) Chiranjeevees (7) Ayurdevatha (1) Nakshatra Devathas ( 28) , Samvatsara Devathas (1) Saptha Rishies (1)
In some places only 33 kalasas are placed reducing multiple kalasas in the case of Nakshatra Devathas, to one.
In some other places only 12 kalasas are placed proportionately reducing the multiple kalasas to only one in each group.
After installation of Kalasas and Mandalas over Dhaanyas like, Paddy, Rice, Wheat, Masha, Black til seed etc. as ordained, purohits invoke all the devathas with vedic mantras and complete Shodasa Upachara Pooja ( 16 ways of upachara Pooja). This is followed by Veda Ghosha from the veda followed by the kartha. In the Sooktha Japa Rakshogni Mantras, Paavamana Sooktha, Varuna Sooktha, Thryambaka and Rudra Gayathri Mantras, Dik Palaka mantras, Brahma Vishnu Rudra/Durga/Sree/Bhoo/Mruthyu/Ayushya/Baagya etc. sookthams are chanted. Sri Rudram/Chamakam and Purusha Sooktham are also chanted This Japa conclude with Nakshatra Sooktham, Grutha Sooktham, Pancha Shaanthi and Ghosha Shaanthi. In some places first panchathi from each of the 44 anuvakas from the Yajur Veda Samhitha, are also chanted.
Next to completion of the japa, Homa would be performed with 108 aahuthees chanting Thrayambaka Mantras. .Samith,Ghee ( Aajyam) Havis ( in some places Til seed is also used). Homa is concluded with Swishta Krutha and Jayathi Homa.
On completion of Puna Pooja, Kalasa Jala ( water from the holy pots ) are smeared over the kartha and other people assembled there. This is followed by
AAJYA NIREESHANAM ( CHAYA DHANAM) . There after Mangala Snaana is performed on the kartha ( Dampathees). Mangala Snana performed with 11 Dravyas are as follows: 1. GOROCHANAM (to be applied in the head) 2. CURD ( to be applied in the forehead) 3.GHEE ( to applied on the eye lids) 4. BLADES OF GRASS (to be placed on the head) 5. COW’S MILK ( to be sprinkled on head) 6.FRUITS (touch the fruits with hands) 7. FLOWERS ( place in the head) 8. MIRROR ( view the mirror) 9. DEEPAM ( see the light of the deepam) 10 EARTH ( touch the earth preferably the mud from beneath the tulasi plant ) 11.GOLD ( place a coin or gold article in the head). By doing this Mangala Snaana - one is praying for 1. Poorna Aayu: 2. Good Health, Fame, Courage, Prosperity, good appearance, removal of all diseases, Strength, fulfillment of all desires, removal of ugliness, gaining of knowledge and removal of all sins., acquiring all comforts in life etc. etc. Each of the above Dravya is used praying for specific fulfillment of desires.
Soon After Mangala Snaana is over - the Rithviks assembled their do the Abhisheka with the Kalasa jala on the kartha along with chanting of mantras. This Abhisheka should be done only by elderly scholarly people and ritviks . This is followed by AARDRA VASTRA DHAANA ( the cloth used by the couple at the time of Abhisheka), cloth wrapped around Kalasas as well as the icons / Prathimas made of Gold/silver if any placed over the respective kalasas, are also should be given as dhaana to purohits.
Thereafter Dasa Dhaana ( 10 types of gifts) are given to purohits.
1, Cow Dhaana is given praying for peace/prosperity etc. Generally substituted by a Coconut and Go Moolya ( that is price of a cow- Uttaranga Go Dhaana)
2. Bhoo Dhaana : Land for cultivation or dwelling should be given.( Generally substituted by Sandal Wood piece).This Dhaana is given praying for comfortable living.
3. Seasme/Til ( black) in a copper vessel or iron vessel is given praying for removal of all sins.
4. Hiranya ( Gold) Dhaana is given again praying for removal all acquired sins.
5. Ghee in a bronze Vessel for pleasing of all devathas and praying for removal of all aarjitha papas.
6. Vastram (Veshti-Uthareeyam) – Praying for good health and prosperity.
7. Food grains ( Paddy/Rice/Wheat etc) Praying for Subhiksham in life.
8. Jaggery: To Please Goddess Lakshmi and seeking all prosperity
9. Roupyam ( Silver) To please piturs/ Maha Vishnu seeking their blessings.
10. Lavanam ( Salt) To Please Sri Rudra seeking good health.
Some people give Pancha Dhaana also ( Gift of 5 items) apart from the above. They are Deepam, A religious book, A bell, Vastram, and Udhaka Kumba
( Brass or Copper vessel with water) . These Dhaanas are made seeking the Blessings of all Devathas/ purohits etc.
Bhoori Dhakshina is given to all Scholars and other elders who have graced the occasion.Finally Phala Dhaana to be given to one and all who have come for the function. The above two Dhaanas are given seeking their good wishes.
As by customs and practices prevalent in their family Lakshmi Pooja is done to the Mangalya specially prepared for that occasion. and Mangalya Dharana would be completed on the auspicious Muhurtha. Please note that there may be exception to this in some cases or as warranted by the situation.
Function would be concluded by Maha Aashirvadams from Ritviks and elders present there. Then follows Brahmana bhojanam / Bhuktha Dakshina and Swasthi Vaachanam.
( This method is prescribed for our benefit by Rishi Sownaka)
Some people conduct Rudra Ekadasini in the previous day. Rudra Japam by 11 Rithviks 11 times as ordained would be followed by Dasamsa Rudra Homa and Vasordhara. Prokshanam of the Abisheka Jalam follows. Dasa dhaanams are given thereafter to please various Gods/Devathas/Pitrus/Ritviks etc..
In some places additionally Shad Dhaanas (six gifts) are made. They are Deepam, Jala Patram, Salagramam, Siva Lingam, Vibhoothi, Rudraksham. In Samkalpitha Dhaanam comes Phalaka (Wooden Plank-Seat) Chatra ( Umbrella) Yashti ( Walking Stick) Vyajanam ( Hand Fan) Paada Raksha ( chappal) etc.
Note:-
PANCHA RATHNAMS ( FIVE KUMBA RATHNAMS to be put inside Kalasams) are Gold/Kulisam ( Vairam)/Blue Sapphire/Pushpa Raagam ( topaz) /pearl
FIVE LEAVES PUT IN THE KALASASA/KUMBAS ARE Aswatha, Oudumbara, Palasa, Mango, and Athi.
FIVE SUBSTANCES IN PANCHAGAVYA: are Cow’s urine, Cow Dung, and items from cow’s milk / curd and Ghee in the proportion 2:1:6:12:2. They should be mixed one after the other by chanting of relative mantras .
SAPTHA CHIRANJEEVEES are: Awasthama , Maha Bali, Veda Vyasa
Hanuman, Vibheeshana, Krupa Charya and Parasurama.
SAPTHA RISHEES are Athri, Brugu, Kulsa, Vasishta, Gowthama, Kasyapa, and Angirasa.
MATHRU CHATUSHTAYAM: Dhishaanam, Vrudha Mathram, Gowri and Durga.
==============================================================
During the life time of a person, especially from the 54th Birth day onwards Kaamyartha Prayaschitha Karma seeking good health, Veda Uktha Poorna Aayu: and remedy from all sins starts. Shaanthi at 54th Birth date is called Bheema Shaanthi. At 59th birth date another Shaanthi Yagna to be conducted called Ugra Ratha Shaanthi .When a person he or she is completing his/her 60 th birth day - on that date a shaanthi Yagna to be conducted with the help of learned vedic pandits- to ward off all evils that may affect the kartha in the continuing years. As reported in the sruthies, the following dushta grahaas like Kala yavana, yamala, sudoomra etc would create APA-MRUTHYU to the person concerned, as well as affect the health of his/her parents/ spouses children etc;. soon after the completion of his first cycle of Sashti Samvatsara. ( Our Samvatsara Cycle consists 60 years starting from Prabhava, Vibhava, etc. .In the cycle of years the current year is called “VYAYA:-up to say 14th of April-2007 ) To ward off from Bhootha- Pretha – Mruthyu Bhaya and to get rid of all sins acquired till then - this Kaamyartha Sashti Abdha Poorthi karma should be performed. During this shaanthi one also seek from the God- good health and poorna Aayu: for himself as well as for his family members.
After completion of morning rituals like Sandhya Vandanam /Bath etc (purfication functions) seek permission from the learned vedic pandits, for commencements of the function. “ANUKJNA” is followed by Vigneswara Pooja., Samkalpam. In the Samkalpa one prays for Health, Wealth, Prosperity, Poorna Aayu: He also prays for protection from bad effects due to bad viewership or bad positioning of the planets and other dushta grahas as stated earlier.
During the pooja the following deities are invoked either in the kalasams/Kumbhams or in the Mandalam .1. Indra 2. Agni 3. Yama 4. Nirruthi 5. Varunan 6. Vayu 7. Soman 8. Eesanan 9. Brahamma 10. Vishnu 11. Ugra Rathaakya Rudra ( Amrutha Mruthyunjayan)
Markandeyan, Saptha Rishies, Arunthathi, Sashti Samvatsara Devathas, Saptha Chiranjeevees, Nakshatra Devathas, Dhishanaam, Vrudha Matha, Gowri, Durga, Varunan, Mangala Devatha. Navagraha devathas etc.
After giving Graha Preethi Dhaana, Vaishnava Sraadham, Poorvanga Go Dhaana, (towards cow dhaana generally a coconut- along with money equivalent to the value of a cow is given to a purohit) etc. are performed ( as per the soothra they follow and Kula Aachara/Desa Aachara) Abyuthaya Sraadham ( Nandee Sraadham) is performed thereafter invoking the departed souls- called Sathya Vasu Samjnaka and seeking their blessings in advance.
Then follows Punya Aham, Acharya Varanam, Rithvik Varanam, Kalasa Sthapanam etc. Different methods are followed in Kalasa Sthapanam/ Mandala Sthapanam.
Where 60 kalasas are used, the devathas invoked in kalasas are under:-
Amrutha Mruthuyunjaya (1) Brahmma (1) Vishnu (1) Rudra (1) Markandeyan (1) For Ashta Dik Devathas like Indra etc (8) , Navagrahas (9) Chiranjeevees (7) Ayurdevatha (1) Nakshatra Devathas ( 28) , Samvatsara Devathas (1) Saptha Rishies (1)
In some places only 33 kalasas are placed reducing multiple kalasas in the case of Nakshatra Devathas, to one.
In some other places only 12 kalasas are placed proportionately reducing the multiple kalasas to only one in each group.
After installation of Kalasas and Mandalas over Dhaanyas like, Paddy, Rice, Wheat, Masha, Black til seed etc. as ordained, purohits invoke all the devathas with vedic mantras and complete Shodasa Upachara Pooja ( 16 ways of upachara Pooja). This is followed by Veda Ghosha from the veda followed by the kartha. In the Sooktha Japa Rakshogni Mantras, Paavamana Sooktha, Varuna Sooktha, Thryambaka and Rudra Gayathri Mantras, Dik Palaka mantras, Brahma Vishnu Rudra/Durga/Sree/Bhoo/Mruthyu/Ayushya/Baagya etc. sookthams are chanted. Sri Rudram/Chamakam and Purusha Sooktham are also chanted This Japa conclude with Nakshatra Sooktham, Grutha Sooktham, Pancha Shaanthi and Ghosha Shaanthi. In some places first panchathi from each of the 44 anuvakas from the Yajur Veda Samhitha, are also chanted.
Next to completion of the japa, Homa would be performed with 108 aahuthees chanting Thrayambaka Mantras. .Samith,Ghee ( Aajyam) Havis ( in some places Til seed is also used). Homa is concluded with Swishta Krutha and Jayathi Homa.
On completion of Puna Pooja, Kalasa Jala ( water from the holy pots ) are smeared over the kartha and other people assembled there. This is followed by
AAJYA NIREESHANAM ( CHAYA DHANAM) . There after Mangala Snaana is performed on the kartha ( Dampathees). Mangala Snana performed with 11 Dravyas are as follows: 1. GOROCHANAM (to be applied in the head) 2. CURD ( to be applied in the forehead) 3.GHEE ( to applied on the eye lids) 4. BLADES OF GRASS (to be placed on the head) 5. COW’S MILK ( to be sprinkled on head) 6.FRUITS (touch the fruits with hands) 7. FLOWERS ( place in the head) 8. MIRROR ( view the mirror) 9. DEEPAM ( see the light of the deepam) 10 EARTH ( touch the earth preferably the mud from beneath the tulasi plant ) 11.GOLD ( place a coin or gold article in the head). By doing this Mangala Snaana - one is praying for 1. Poorna Aayu: 2. Good Health, Fame, Courage, Prosperity, good appearance, removal of all diseases, Strength, fulfillment of all desires, removal of ugliness, gaining of knowledge and removal of all sins., acquiring all comforts in life etc. etc. Each of the above Dravya is used praying for specific fulfillment of desires.
Soon After Mangala Snaana is over - the Rithviks assembled their do the Abhisheka with the Kalasa jala on the kartha along with chanting of mantras. This Abhisheka should be done only by elderly scholarly people and ritviks . This is followed by AARDRA VASTRA DHAANA ( the cloth used by the couple at the time of Abhisheka), cloth wrapped around Kalasas as well as the icons / Prathimas made of Gold/silver if any placed over the respective kalasas, are also should be given as dhaana to purohits.
Thereafter Dasa Dhaana ( 10 types of gifts) are given to purohits.
1, Cow Dhaana is given praying for peace/prosperity etc. Generally substituted by a Coconut and Go Moolya ( that is price of a cow- Uttaranga Go Dhaana)
2. Bhoo Dhaana : Land for cultivation or dwelling should be given.( Generally substituted by Sandal Wood piece).This Dhaana is given praying for comfortable living.
3. Seasme/Til ( black) in a copper vessel or iron vessel is given praying for removal of all sins.
4. Hiranya ( Gold) Dhaana is given again praying for removal all acquired sins.
5. Ghee in a bronze Vessel for pleasing of all devathas and praying for removal of all aarjitha papas.
6. Vastram (Veshti-Uthareeyam) – Praying for good health and prosperity.
7. Food grains ( Paddy/Rice/Wheat etc) Praying for Subhiksham in life.
8. Jaggery: To Please Goddess Lakshmi and seeking all prosperity
9. Roupyam ( Silver) To please piturs/ Maha Vishnu seeking their blessings.
10. Lavanam ( Salt) To Please Sri Rudra seeking good health.
Some people give Pancha Dhaana also ( Gift of 5 items) apart from the above. They are Deepam, A religious book, A bell, Vastram, and Udhaka Kumba
( Brass or Copper vessel with water) . These Dhaanas are made seeking the Blessings of all Devathas/ purohits etc.
Bhoori Dhakshina is given to all Scholars and other elders who have graced the occasion.Finally Phala Dhaana to be given to one and all who have come for the function. The above two Dhaanas are given seeking their good wishes.
As by customs and practices prevalent in their family Lakshmi Pooja is done to the Mangalya specially prepared for that occasion. and Mangalya Dharana would be completed on the auspicious Muhurtha. Please note that there may be exception to this in some cases or as warranted by the situation.
Function would be concluded by Maha Aashirvadams from Ritviks and elders present there. Then follows Brahmana bhojanam / Bhuktha Dakshina and Swasthi Vaachanam.
( This method is prescribed for our benefit by Rishi Sownaka)
Some people conduct Rudra Ekadasini in the previous day. Rudra Japam by 11 Rithviks 11 times as ordained would be followed by Dasamsa Rudra Homa and Vasordhara. Prokshanam of the Abisheka Jalam follows. Dasa dhaanams are given thereafter to please various Gods/Devathas/Pitrus/Ritviks etc..
In some places additionally Shad Dhaanas (six gifts) are made. They are Deepam, Jala Patram, Salagramam, Siva Lingam, Vibhoothi, Rudraksham. In Samkalpitha Dhaanam comes Phalaka (Wooden Plank-Seat) Chatra ( Umbrella) Yashti ( Walking Stick) Vyajanam ( Hand Fan) Paada Raksha ( chappal) etc.
Note:-
PANCHA RATHNAMS ( FIVE KUMBA RATHNAMS to be put inside Kalasams) are Gold/Kulisam ( Vairam)/Blue Sapphire/Pushpa Raagam ( topaz) /pearl
FIVE LEAVES PUT IN THE KALASASA/KUMBAS ARE Aswatha, Oudumbara, Palasa, Mango, and Athi.
FIVE SUBSTANCES IN PANCHAGAVYA: are Cow’s urine, Cow Dung, and items from cow’s milk / curd and Ghee in the proportion 2:1:6:12:2. They should be mixed one after the other by chanting of relative mantras .
SAPTHA CHIRANJEEVEES are: Awasthama , Maha Bali, Veda Vyasa
Hanuman, Vibheeshana, Krupa Charya and Parasurama.
SAPTHA RISHEES are Athri, Brugu, Kulsa, Vasishta, Gowthama, Kasyapa, and Angirasa.
MATHRU CHATUSHTAYAM: Dhishaanam, Vrudha Mathram, Gowri and Durga.
==============================================================
Thursday, October 12, 2006
SRI BHATTATHIRI &NAARAYANEEYAM
MELPATTUR- NARAYANA BHATTATHIRI-& NARAYANEEYAM
Sri. Bhattathiri was borne in Melpattur Illam-Kurumbathoor Village in Malappuram Dist, in Kerala. Borne in 1560 Sri. Melpattur Narayana Bhattathiri’s father was Mathru Dattan Namboodiri. His birth place is near famous Thirunavaya Temple. He had an elder brother by name Sri. Damodaran and a younger brother by name Sri. Mathru Dattan.
Bhattathiri learned VEDA and Sanskrit from Guru Sri. Madhavan Oothikkan. He learnt Tarka Sastra from his elder brother Sri. Damodaran. For Mimamsa , father was his Guru. In his younger days Bhattathiri has his formal education in every field. He later married the niece of one Thrikandiyur Sri. Achutha Pisharodi- from out side his community- as was the custom then. In olden days - Namboodiri family’s only the eldest son can marry within their community. Others would marry ladies from Royal families, Ambala Vaasis etc from outside their community. Probably this system was followed to preserve the family treasures /tradition and values.
Sri. Bhattathiri after marriage became very lazy and ignored even his Nithya Anushtana etc. It was really surprising to his wife’s uncle Sri. Pisharodi- who was a good Sanskrit / Vyakarana /Grammar teacher. Sri. Bhattathiri would be sleeping when Sri. Pisharodi’s classes were going on . One day Sri. Pisharodi out of compassion and sadness told Sri. Bhattathiri thus “ EVEN AFTER GETTING A GOOD MAASUSHA/BRAHMANA JANMA AND HAVING LEARNT VEDAS YOU ARE WAISTING YOUR TIME ONLY IN WORLDLY PLEASURES. WHY DON’T YOU REALISE THAT.” These words uttered by Sri. Pisharodi before his students had a telling effect on him. Then onwards he took Sri. Pisharodi as his Guru and learnt Vyakaranam/Grammar from him.
After passage of time Sri. Achuta Pisharodi was suffering from Vaatha Roga. Sri. Bhattathiri could not see his Guru’s suffering. He started praying to God fervently to cure his guru’s disease. Finding no relief from the disease, Sri. Narayana Bhattathiri consulted many learned people for cure. After learning about “ ‘KARMA VIPAKA DHANA’ by which the sins of one person is taken over and the donor is freed from his sufferings. He accepted the above Dhana praying for his Guru’s cure. As destined it happened. The Vaatha Roga was transferred from Guru to Sishya and Sri. Bhattathiri became sick and crippled by the same disease.
Later SRI TUNCHAT EZUTHACHAN one of the famous Malayalam Poets of Kerala, advised Sri. Bhattathiri to do Bhajanam and asked him to sing the glory of Lord Narayana starting from the “ Matsya Avatara”. Accepting his valuable suggestions, he decided to do Bhajanam at Guruvayur Temple for some period. He chose to write poetry eulogizing the Glory of the Lord Narayana. His Sankalpam was to write in brief the entire Vyasa’s Sri mad Bhagavatham which contained 18000 slokas. As he was a scholar in Rig Veda he chose to write his poetry with different chandas/swara / meters and with each block containing 10 slokas in general.
Though with enthusiasm he completed the first two dasakams, his crippling disease prevented him from continuing. It is reported that his young brother- Sri. Matru Dattan Namboodiri who was nursing him, helped him in writing/copying the slokas. From the third Dasakam onwards in each of the Dasakam Sri. Bhattathiri’s prayer to God to cure his disease can be seen. As per his sankalpam in first 36 dasakams he covered the first IXth chapters of the Srimad Bhagavatham. From 37 onwards up to 90 Dasakams he covered the Dasama Skandam ( Krishna Avatara Katha). From the 91 Dasakams he covered XIth Skandam of the epic which contain Uddava Tatwa Upadesa, Jnana/Bakthi/Karma Yogas/Vaishnava Mahatwam/ Brahmopasanam etc etc. In fact he has covered the entire XI th chapter so nicely, precisely in a condensed form without omitting any of the important explanations, this Chapter XI of Bhagavatham and the last 10 dasakams of the Narayaneeyam are worth reading and emulating in once life as far as possible.
Sri. Bhattathiri, completed condensed version of the Srimad Bhagavatham in 100 days in 1034 slokas. As soon as he completed this beautiful Sanskrit literary work with all the ingredients such as Sthoola/Sooshma meanings, Roopa, Bhava, different Chandas and Sabdha Silpams etc. and submitted to the Lord of Guruvayur -- Sri. Guruvayurappan- it is reported that Sri. Narayana Bhattathiri had a vision of the Lord. Seeing the Lord before him he chanted the last 10 slokas glorifying His each and every part of body which is called KESADI PAADA VARNANA. We understand that he got cured of his disease after completion of this Kavya. He named this as Naarayaneeyam as it was written by him and second as it is about the Lord Narayana. This Great Kavya of Naarayaneeyam was completed by him in 100 days at the age of 27, in the year 1587. That day was 27th day of Vruchikam month corresponding to ( Karthika Masa) . In rememberance of this great Scholar Guruvayur Devaswam has taken possession of 17 cents of his family land in Chandana Kavu,to construct a memorial. Each year on 27th of Vruchika Masa Guruvayur Devaswam is arranging for chanting of Sampoorna Naarayaneeya Parayanam at this place.
Sri. Bhattathiri was reported to be very learned man in Rig Veda, Vedantha, Saiva Agamas, Mantra Sastras, Vyakaranam etc. etc. He has thanked his acquired Vaatha Roga for his spiritual upliftment. Gratitude towards his guru Sri. Pisharodi for the turning point in his life is reflected in the Naarayaneeyam 93 dasakam’s last sloka.
Aaswalayana Soothra Kriya Kramam ( Rig Veda Mantra Prayoga) Sri Krishna Geethi for Dance Drama relating to Lord Krishna, Sripada Sapathathi, Prakriya Sarvaswam, Sooktha Slokas relating to Rig Vedas Vyakarana Grantha etc. etc are some of this great scholars creations and achievements.
During the period of Sri. Bhattathiri, there was another Guruvayurappa Bhaktha by name Sri. Poonthanam. He wrote a poetry in Malayalam depicting human values and philosophical out look in one’s life. The name of the poetry is Gnana paana. Though requested by Sri. Poonthanam Sri Bhattathiri refused to look into the contents of that poetry. Then after hearing the divine voice that “ I like Sri. Poonthanam's Bhakthi rather than your vibhakthi’ Sri. Bhattathiri took apology from Sri. Poonthanam. Thus Lord Guruvayurappan removed the Scholarly Ego from Sri. Bhattathiri.
Sri. Bhattathiri’s end came in the year 1646 at the age of 86. while praying at Mukkola Bagavathi Temple. Chanting of the hymn Naarayaneeyam regularly would surely give the devotee to attain ayu arogya souwkyam . Hence it recommended to practice chanting of Naarayaneeyam regularly by understanding the meaning of the slokas.
==============================================================
Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
( Kali Santhrana Upanishad says that by chanting of the above Mantra regularly one can achieve Mukthi in Kaliyuga)
Subham Bhavathu.
==========================================================
Sri. Bhattathiri was borne in Melpattur Illam-Kurumbathoor Village in Malappuram Dist, in Kerala. Borne in 1560 Sri. Melpattur Narayana Bhattathiri’s father was Mathru Dattan Namboodiri. His birth place is near famous Thirunavaya Temple. He had an elder brother by name Sri. Damodaran and a younger brother by name Sri. Mathru Dattan.
Bhattathiri learned VEDA and Sanskrit from Guru Sri. Madhavan Oothikkan. He learnt Tarka Sastra from his elder brother Sri. Damodaran. For Mimamsa , father was his Guru. In his younger days Bhattathiri has his formal education in every field. He later married the niece of one Thrikandiyur Sri. Achutha Pisharodi- from out side his community- as was the custom then. In olden days - Namboodiri family’s only the eldest son can marry within their community. Others would marry ladies from Royal families, Ambala Vaasis etc from outside their community. Probably this system was followed to preserve the family treasures /tradition and values.
Sri. Bhattathiri after marriage became very lazy and ignored even his Nithya Anushtana etc. It was really surprising to his wife’s uncle Sri. Pisharodi- who was a good Sanskrit / Vyakarana /Grammar teacher. Sri. Bhattathiri would be sleeping when Sri. Pisharodi’s classes were going on . One day Sri. Pisharodi out of compassion and sadness told Sri. Bhattathiri thus “ EVEN AFTER GETTING A GOOD MAASUSHA/BRAHMANA JANMA AND HAVING LEARNT VEDAS YOU ARE WAISTING YOUR TIME ONLY IN WORLDLY PLEASURES. WHY DON’T YOU REALISE THAT.” These words uttered by Sri. Pisharodi before his students had a telling effect on him. Then onwards he took Sri. Pisharodi as his Guru and learnt Vyakaranam/Grammar from him.
After passage of time Sri. Achuta Pisharodi was suffering from Vaatha Roga. Sri. Bhattathiri could not see his Guru’s suffering. He started praying to God fervently to cure his guru’s disease. Finding no relief from the disease, Sri. Narayana Bhattathiri consulted many learned people for cure. After learning about “ ‘KARMA VIPAKA DHANA’ by which the sins of one person is taken over and the donor is freed from his sufferings. He accepted the above Dhana praying for his Guru’s cure. As destined it happened. The Vaatha Roga was transferred from Guru to Sishya and Sri. Bhattathiri became sick and crippled by the same disease.
Later SRI TUNCHAT EZUTHACHAN one of the famous Malayalam Poets of Kerala, advised Sri. Bhattathiri to do Bhajanam and asked him to sing the glory of Lord Narayana starting from the “ Matsya Avatara”. Accepting his valuable suggestions, he decided to do Bhajanam at Guruvayur Temple for some period. He chose to write poetry eulogizing the Glory of the Lord Narayana. His Sankalpam was to write in brief the entire Vyasa’s Sri mad Bhagavatham which contained 18000 slokas. As he was a scholar in Rig Veda he chose to write his poetry with different chandas/swara / meters and with each block containing 10 slokas in general.
Though with enthusiasm he completed the first two dasakams, his crippling disease prevented him from continuing. It is reported that his young brother- Sri. Matru Dattan Namboodiri who was nursing him, helped him in writing/copying the slokas. From the third Dasakam onwards in each of the Dasakam Sri. Bhattathiri’s prayer to God to cure his disease can be seen. As per his sankalpam in first 36 dasakams he covered the first IXth chapters of the Srimad Bhagavatham. From 37 onwards up to 90 Dasakams he covered the Dasama Skandam ( Krishna Avatara Katha). From the 91 Dasakams he covered XIth Skandam of the epic which contain Uddava Tatwa Upadesa, Jnana/Bakthi/Karma Yogas/Vaishnava Mahatwam/ Brahmopasanam etc etc. In fact he has covered the entire XI th chapter so nicely, precisely in a condensed form without omitting any of the important explanations, this Chapter XI of Bhagavatham and the last 10 dasakams of the Narayaneeyam are worth reading and emulating in once life as far as possible.
Sri. Bhattathiri, completed condensed version of the Srimad Bhagavatham in 100 days in 1034 slokas. As soon as he completed this beautiful Sanskrit literary work with all the ingredients such as Sthoola/Sooshma meanings, Roopa, Bhava, different Chandas and Sabdha Silpams etc. and submitted to the Lord of Guruvayur -- Sri. Guruvayurappan- it is reported that Sri. Narayana Bhattathiri had a vision of the Lord. Seeing the Lord before him he chanted the last 10 slokas glorifying His each and every part of body which is called KESADI PAADA VARNANA. We understand that he got cured of his disease after completion of this Kavya. He named this as Naarayaneeyam as it was written by him and second as it is about the Lord Narayana. This Great Kavya of Naarayaneeyam was completed by him in 100 days at the age of 27, in the year 1587. That day was 27th day of Vruchikam month corresponding to ( Karthika Masa) . In rememberance of this great Scholar Guruvayur Devaswam has taken possession of 17 cents of his family land in Chandana Kavu,to construct a memorial. Each year on 27th of Vruchika Masa Guruvayur Devaswam is arranging for chanting of Sampoorna Naarayaneeya Parayanam at this place.
Sri. Bhattathiri was reported to be very learned man in Rig Veda, Vedantha, Saiva Agamas, Mantra Sastras, Vyakaranam etc. etc. He has thanked his acquired Vaatha Roga for his spiritual upliftment. Gratitude towards his guru Sri. Pisharodi for the turning point in his life is reflected in the Naarayaneeyam 93 dasakam’s last sloka.
Aaswalayana Soothra Kriya Kramam ( Rig Veda Mantra Prayoga) Sri Krishna Geethi for Dance Drama relating to Lord Krishna, Sripada Sapathathi, Prakriya Sarvaswam, Sooktha Slokas relating to Rig Vedas Vyakarana Grantha etc. etc are some of this great scholars creations and achievements.
During the period of Sri. Bhattathiri, there was another Guruvayurappa Bhaktha by name Sri. Poonthanam. He wrote a poetry in Malayalam depicting human values and philosophical out look in one’s life. The name of the poetry is Gnana paana. Though requested by Sri. Poonthanam Sri Bhattathiri refused to look into the contents of that poetry. Then after hearing the divine voice that “ I like Sri. Poonthanam's Bhakthi rather than your vibhakthi’ Sri. Bhattathiri took apology from Sri. Poonthanam. Thus Lord Guruvayurappan removed the Scholarly Ego from Sri. Bhattathiri.
Sri. Bhattathiri’s end came in the year 1646 at the age of 86. while praying at Mukkola Bagavathi Temple. Chanting of the hymn Naarayaneeyam regularly would surely give the devotee to attain ayu arogya souwkyam . Hence it recommended to practice chanting of Naarayaneeyam regularly by understanding the meaning of the slokas.
==============================================================
Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
( Kali Santhrana Upanishad says that by chanting of the above Mantra regularly one can achieve Mukthi in Kaliyuga)
Subham Bhavathu.
==========================================================
Sunday, September 10, 2006
A PEEP INTO GARUDAPURANAM
SOME INSIDE VIEW ABOUT GARUDA PURANAM
Garuda Purana is a Sathrika Purana and bracketed with other Puranas like Vishnu, Narada, Bhagawarta -Padma and Varaha puranas etc.It has now 19000 slokas available and divided as Poorva Kanda and Uttara Kanda. This purana was first narrated by Vishnu to Garuda. Then GarudatoKashyapa,Bhrigu,Vashishtha, Vamadeva,Parassarar,and Veda Vyasa respectiely. Vyasa imparted to Romaharshan who is also called Sootha Munivar.
Garuda Purana is a Sathrika Purana and bracketed with other Puranas like Vishnu, Narada, Bhagawarta -Padma and Varaha puranas etc.It has now 19000 slokas available and divided as Poorva Kanda and Uttara Kanda. This purana was first narrated by Vishnu to Garuda. Then GarudatoKashyapa,Bhrigu,Vashishtha, Vamadeva,Parassarar,and Veda Vyasa respectiely. Vyasa imparted to Romaharshan who is also called Sootha Munivar.
Garuda Puranam is one of the eighteen puranas. This Puranam deals with cause of birth / death, after death what happens to the soul,the details about naraka loka / swarga loka,theways to attain moksha ? etc.
Sootha Munivar, was the one of Sishyas of Saint Veda Vyasa. He narrated this Puranam to the Naimicharanya Vasis on their request. In this purana Garuda Bagavan raises various queries relating to the Life, Death, Jeeva, Atma, Soul after death, Way to attain Mukthi, how to avoid another janma, how to come out of pretha form after death etc. etc. Lord Vishnu explains to the Garuda point by point for all the queries raised by him. This forms the gist of Garuda Puranam.
Garuda Puranam deals with in detail about what are the transformation taking place to a soul/ jeeva after death. What are the difficulties the pretha roopa soul has to undergo in Naraka Lokas ? How they travel to Yama puri?. What are the ways to get a good life after death.? How to get swarga loka. How to attain Mukthi ?.
In this purana Lord Vishnu says that if one is following his Dharma promptly and properly in the form what is expected of him , that would take care of him after his death.Lord Vishnu says that there are 84 lakhs varieties of Jeevas/ Yonis in this prapancha .They are equally divided into four category. They are ANDAJAM, URPISAM, CHARAYUCHAM, SWEDHACHAM ETC. In Andajam there are 21 lakhs varieties of jeevas coming out of Eggs, like birds etc. The second one is jeevas coming out of earth like trees etc -all taavara lives. The one coming out of Garba is called Charayucham.Human beings etc belong this group. The jeevas coming out of sweat/ water etc are the fourth variety. Mosquitoes etc are included in this category.
A land where the KRISHNACHARAM variety of Black colour deers are living is considered as Punya Bhoomi. The presence of 33 crores devas are reported to be present only in such punya Bhoomi. He also state that any Dhana or Dharma should be carried out with pure mind and with Bhakthi other wise any amount of the above would not be fruitful. To come out of the Pretha form after the death one must do VRISHABA UTHKARSHANAM, i.e giving as gift a male calf after doing necessary pooja. There is no other alternative to this to avoid pretha janma. The soul after death should attain the Bootha Rupa so as to receive the offering made by the kartha. Any amount of Dhana Dharmas would be of no use if one’s soul remain in pretha form. This Vrishaba Uthkarshanam can be done even before ones death by the concerned kartha. No Sraadhram is required at this stage. After the death this should be done on 11th day followed by Ekothishata Sraadhram..
A person can perform GO Dhana, Anna Dhana , Udhaka Dhana, etc. These good deeds done would take care of the concerned persons from hard ship after death. Before doing Sapindee karanam one must complete Shodasa Sraadhram. Sala Grama Dhanam, Vastra Dhanam, etc are also to be performed. Deepa Dhanam , Go Dhanam, Bronze Vessel filled with Ghee in a boat made of Sugar Cane and covered with Silk etc to be performed in order to facilitate the soul to cross the difficult river called VAITHARANEE. Bed, Iron Vessel, Gold, Salt, Nava Dhanyam, Thila Dhanam, etc are also to be given on the 11 th day.
It reported by God that the distance between Bhu Loka and Yama Puri is around 86 thousand katham. To reach this a soul takes around 1 year- by crossing the distance @ around 247 kadams by walking day and night. The pinda pradhanam done every day after death would cause the growth of the Pretha part by part. On the 10th day this pretha jeeva attains it full form.
While covering the distance as stated above, the jeeva has to undergo innumerable hardships like hunger, thirst, heat, cold,wilde animals etc. etc. There are many places this bootha jeeva has to cross.It travels to Yamiyam ( in 28 days) Avyamiyam (60 days) Chowri (90 days), Kruroora puram (150 days) Krouncham ( 180 days) Vaitharani river ( 100 Yojanas width) This is Yamas brother Vichithran’s place. ( oona masikam after 180 days before 210 days) Anna dhanam to be done at this period on behalf of the deceased person. Udhaka Kumba Dhanam also to be done to provide water to the departed soul. Pakkuapadam ( 240 days)Dhukkadham ( 270days) Nadhakkirandham (300days) Here the departed souls would be filtered whether Vrisha Uthkarshanam is done for the particular soul or not. Adabtham( 330 days) cheethabram ( cold place) (360 days) Vaivaswatha Pattinam ( oonam Abdhika Pindam) .Thus the bootha jeeva would be covering different places during the first year.
This Vaivaswatha pattanam is yama puri. Here, there would be 12 sravanars. One must do pooja for this 12 sravanars, so that they would address to Yama all your good deeds done. These 12 Sravanars would brief Chitragupta the accountant of Yama puri details about the soul arrived.
There are 28 different naraka lokas. At the completion of one year the departed soul would get the sareera by the pindas given by the kartha and would reach Yamapuri. After shedding the Pinda Sareera the soul would become very small i.e up to the size of a thump. After a while the soul would get the karma sareera and would be taken to the Yamapuri by kinkaras. The departed soul if good, would find everything good and pleasing at Yamapuri in contrast to the papa soul. Iron Walking Stick, Salt, Vastram, Vessel with Thilam in that etc should be given as Dhanam. With these Dhanam the Yama kinkaras would be pleased and would not trouble the departed soul while reaching the Yama Puri.
If a soul is not getting out of the Pretha form and attain Bootha form then that soul would cause difficulties to the concerned family people in many ways. After completing the Sapindee Karanam on 12th day as per one’s SOOTHRA daily sraadha is ordained up to the end of first one year. It stated in this purana that if one die without getting a son one would not get a place in any of the world. The place where one is doing Sraadha should be clean to avoid the presence of pretha, boothas, paichas, etc. These evil spirits try to block one doing the karma. The Ginglee seed/Tila is formed out of God’s sweat. Hence it is one of the pure dravya.For Dhana both white and black Til can be given. But for Sraadha only black one should be used.The DHARBA GRASS ( SOOSAI GRASS) was first formed in the Aakasa. In the Dharba from the edge respectively BHRAHMA,VISHNU AND SIVA are reported to be present. THE DHARBA GRASS, TULASI, BRAHMIN, MANTRAS, AGNI ETC. do not have nirmalya dhosha. Hence used Dharba grass can be again used. God says here that if one is about to die he should clean the ground and put dharba grass and spray Gingili Seeds over it and lie down over it. ( The same is called PRAYOPAVESAM.) And in this position with Tulasi leaf or beed in the hand if one chant God’s name he would definitely attain moksha from this Samsara Chakra. He can also do Dhana before his death. Salt Dhana is considered good as the same is reported to have formed in Vishnu Loka. Cotton Dhana / i.e. Vastram Dhana is also considered as good. Tila Dhana in a iron vessel, Cow(Go) Dhanam, Bhoomi Dhana, Gold Dhana, Dravya Dhana etc also to be given before death. If a Dhana is done at the dieing moment of a Jeeva it is considered as very good. Grahana time is also considered as auspicious to give dhana.
Salt Dhaana vanishes Yama Bhaya. By doing tila dhana in iron vessel Lord Yama would be pleased. By Vasthra Dhana Yama dhootas are pleased. Dhanya dhana would make the Yama dhootas to provide the required substances to the jeeva at appropriate time. GODHANA AND GOLD DHANA WOULD TAKE AWAY ALL THE PAPAS. At the dieing moment of one's jeeva if in that house vessel made of iron is given as dhana Yama Kinkaras would be afraid to approach that house. After death the jeeva spend three days in water and next three days in agni and the next three days in Aakasa. One day he would stay in his house in the form of Pretha. First day, 3rd day, 5th day, 7th day,9th day and in 11th day NAVASRAADHA to be performed. On the first day where the karmas are done on the same place all the 10 days karmas to be performed. On the 10th day the gothra sapinders do TILA TARPANA AND KUNDA TARPANA on behalf of the deceased jeeva. On the THITHI the jeeva has departed on the same thithi of the next month monthly masikam to be performed. Ekothishata sraadha with all dhanas on 11th day to one Brahmin is also considered auspicious. “SAYYA DHANAM” (BED) is also considered as one shreshta dhana.
In one’s death there are three who partake the pinda They are called PINDAPITHUR (3) THYACHAKAR (3), LEPAKAR (3), ONE WHO COME AT THE TIME OF PUTTING PINDA.(1) Like that there are 10 persons .After the Sapindee karanam the existing third pinda pithur become THYACHAKAR. If one person does his father’s karma properly with sraadha, piturs pleasingly give him one son in the place of 10 th person.
Last five stars from Avittam onwards are not auspicious. If death take place in those days that is called Dhanishta Panchami. The jeeva and its pretha which has died on one of the above five stars would not go away from the place so easily. Hence where ever possible such dead body to be removed only after the particular star period is over. Some special prayaschitha to be carried out for such death. It is reported that such jeeva would attain good place after death.
During the sraadha which is on behalf of pretha form of the departed the following should not be done.
Brahmins Ashirvadams, Seeking their blessings, double dharba pavithram, ucharana of pranavam/AUM, the food prepared should not be eaten by dog, balance food should not be taken, food should not sold, Swadha sabdha should not be used. Pithur Sabdham narrating simultaneously, Aavahanam,Namaskaram, valam varuthal , Pundra Dharanam , poornahuthi in agni, ekothishtam etc. If against the ordained norms if one does any of the above he would attain naraka without fail. For Durmarana there is no asowcham for any body. No kruthya is ordained for such death. Only Narayana Bali after six months to be done.
What should be done, what should not be done, How to do it, When to do it, etc are to decided by our Sastras only. Sastras are the pramanam to do any thing in this world. In the conversation with Nachikethas Yama states as under:- There is Eha Loka and para loka. One would come into my grip of death again and again.According to his Papa Punya one get rebirth as nara, thavara, or birds, etc. Lord advises people to do the following to lead a good peaceful life. Sraadha ceremony for departed souls, feeding Brahmins,donating alms to the deserved,Chanting Gayathri mantra, remain kind to all beings, keeps control over his senses, Believe that all beings have to perish oneday. By doing Kanyaka Dhaan, Vishotsarga, taking bath in punya theerthas and giving alms to the poor etc would also ensure peacefull living in this life and in the next life as well.
The Garuda Puranam can be read on Sankranthi day, Vishu Punya Kala, Sraadha Day. Those who hear, read, or those who are instrumental in arranging for such hearing all would get good place after death, thus say the Lord Vishnu. For More details please refer to the detailed text of Garuda Puranam.
Monday, August 14, 2006
INFORMATION ABOUT SANGEETHA PITHAMAHA- SRI PURANDARADASAR
SRI PURANDARADASAR: AN OVER VIEW:
Born in the year 1484 at tiny village in Hampi near Bellary. Mother’s name was Rathna Bai and father’s name was Varadappa Naik. He was borne in a rich Madhwa Brahmin family- doing jewellery business due to the blessings of their family deity Lord Venkateswara. The original name of Sri. Purandaradasar was Srinivasan and affectionately called as Senappa Nayakkar.Sri. Purandara Dasar popularly known in Carnatic music's circle as Sangeetha Pithamahar.His wife’s name was Saraswathi Bai. He was known as “Navakoti Narayana” for his prosperity. For each crore of rupees- in those days -the family used to put a sthalikuta-Kalasam at the top of the house to exhibit their wealth.Sri. Srinivasan’s house was having such nine such Kalasasams at the top of his house.
He was a very miserly person and not doing any dhana- dharmas as ordained in the scriptures. For him four sons and one daughter were born. His Eldest son's name was Sri. Madhavapathi and his daughter's name was Rukminibai.
As ordained by the Lord- Sri. Srinivasan was borne in the earth as an avathara of Sri.Narada, to propagate Lord’s glory. All through his younger days no divinity was visible in him.
In his 30th age an old Brahmin came to him seeking alms to perform his son’s upanayanam, as Seenappa Naik was the richest person at that place. As he was a miser he did not give anything to him inspite of repeated visit to him for about 6 months. That Brahmin then came to his house and sought Alms from his wife Smt. Saraswathi Bai. After hearing his reasonings, she felt something should be given to the Brahmin to celebrate his son’s Upanayanam. As all finances were handled by the Karatha of the house, Sri. Naik, she reported that she was not having any wealth to give. Then the Old Brahmin sought Saraswathi Bai’s diamond nostril, as that was her wealth. Accordingly she gave her nostril to the Brahmin to get some funds after selling the same. That old Brahmin in the form a diamond businessman visited Mr. Seenappa Naik ‘ shop to sell the nostril.
Sri. Naik could easily recognise that the same belong to his wife. After asking the old man to wait in his shop Sri Naik rushed to his house and asked his wife to produce her nostril. Understanding the gravity of the situation she prayed to Thulasi Devi to save her from her husband’s wrath. While she was praying she heard a sound in the Jalapathra .To her astonishment she could see her identical diamond nostril in the vessel. She thanked God for the happenings and saving her thus.
Saraswathi Bai there after explained every thing to her husband.. Mr. Naik realized that the person who came to his house as old man seeking alms was Lord Vittala /Narayana himself and went in search of the old man at the shop. But none was there.
After the visit of the Divya Purusha in the old form an old Brahmin - self realization came to him from this point .He is reported to have toured India - as thirthayathra thrice in search of God and Truth. He is reported to have sung over 4 lacs songs praising Lord Vittala.. - Of which only few are available now.
In 1525 at his 40th year he came to Udupi and took Upadesam from Sri Vysaraya then Udupi Madathipathi. He thus became a Haridasar. Later Sathya Dharma thirtha Swamigal gave him the name as “ Purandara Dasar”
It is reported that once Bagawan Panduranga came in the form of Purandaradasar to the house of Ramadevi, a dasi, and asked her to sing songs in praise of Lord. After that he presented her with a Gold Kanganam. The next day the temple authorities reported that one of the Kanganam of the Lord is missing. When they found the same with the dasi they enquired about the same. She told that Sri.Purandaradasar who came to her house, gave the same to her. Believing that Dasar has stolen the same, he was tied to a pillar in the temple of Lord Vittala and started beating him. Soon a divine voice was heard that it was He who in the form of Dasar went to the house of the Dasi and gave the Kangan. Bagawan Panduranga thus showed to the world the greatness of the Dasar .He also ordered that henceforth - every day the first pooja/Arathi should be done to the pillar in which Purandara Dasar was tied. Even to day that practice is followed in the Pandaripuram Temple. Devi Saraswathi and Lord Venkateswara also reported to have given Darshan to Dasar at Tirupathi Temple. It is reported that the Unchavruthi Sampradaaya Marga ( making a living by singing the Glory of the Lord and seeking Alms ) was introduced to this world by Sri Purandara Dasa.
Dasar’s devoted wife Saraswathi Bai is said to have attained lord’s feet in the year 1549, when Dasar’s age was around 65. Dasar is reported to have attained Vaikunta Prapthi in the year 1564 on Pushya Bagula Ammavasai day (Saturday)- at Hampi. Even to-day at his samadhi place the death anniversary of this great saint poet is remembered, and celeberated as a Music Festival.It is reported that after his period two of his sons propagated the Dasar's songs.
Simple Language, Simple expressions, Full of Bakthi rasa etc are the specialties in the Dasar’s composition. As per the dictum that in Kali -Yuga Bhagawan’s singing of glory is the only easy way that would take us to mukthi –Saint Purandara Dasar in his composition have sung only about Glory of the Lord nothing else. More over as all his compositions were with special stress to Bhakthi , and can be equated to pure gold. It is reported that at that time No Varna/Raga/Mettu were prescribed for his krithees. Each one was singing his compositions in any raga/mettu/varna according to one’s interest and mano dharma. The present day Raga/Swara/Varnam etc came into existence only at the end of 18th Century. Even to-day his compositions are sung according to manodharma of the each indiviaual musicians.
Purandara Vittala is his mudra for all compositions. His compositions are popularly known as Dasara Padagalu or Dasara Devara Nama. Saint Thyagarajar also has praised Purandara Dasar in his Prahlada Bhakthi Vijayam. Some of the primary-basic lessons in carnatic music in the raga Maya malava Gowla/ Malahari etc with its Swaravali/Jantavarisai-Alankarams etc are the gift of the Saint Sri.Purandara Dasar to this world..
Such a great scholar of divine vision with music knowledge of par excellence lived among us just about 400 years ago! His Contribution to carnatic Music lovers is enviable. Let God’s vision be on us to know more and more about this Music Saint.
Born in the year 1484 at tiny village in Hampi near Bellary. Mother’s name was Rathna Bai and father’s name was Varadappa Naik. He was borne in a rich Madhwa Brahmin family- doing jewellery business due to the blessings of their family deity Lord Venkateswara. The original name of Sri. Purandaradasar was Srinivasan and affectionately called as Senappa Nayakkar.Sri. Purandara Dasar popularly known in Carnatic music's circle as Sangeetha Pithamahar.His wife’s name was Saraswathi Bai. He was known as “Navakoti Narayana” for his prosperity. For each crore of rupees- in those days -the family used to put a sthalikuta-Kalasam at the top of the house to exhibit their wealth.Sri. Srinivasan’s house was having such nine such Kalasasams at the top of his house.
He was a very miserly person and not doing any dhana- dharmas as ordained in the scriptures. For him four sons and one daughter were born. His Eldest son's name was Sri. Madhavapathi and his daughter's name was Rukminibai.
As ordained by the Lord- Sri. Srinivasan was borne in the earth as an avathara of Sri.Narada, to propagate Lord’s glory. All through his younger days no divinity was visible in him.
In his 30th age an old Brahmin came to him seeking alms to perform his son’s upanayanam, as Seenappa Naik was the richest person at that place. As he was a miser he did not give anything to him inspite of repeated visit to him for about 6 months. That Brahmin then came to his house and sought Alms from his wife Smt. Saraswathi Bai. After hearing his reasonings, she felt something should be given to the Brahmin to celebrate his son’s Upanayanam. As all finances were handled by the Karatha of the house, Sri. Naik, she reported that she was not having any wealth to give. Then the Old Brahmin sought Saraswathi Bai’s diamond nostril, as that was her wealth. Accordingly she gave her nostril to the Brahmin to get some funds after selling the same. That old Brahmin in the form a diamond businessman visited Mr. Seenappa Naik ‘ shop to sell the nostril.
Sri. Naik could easily recognise that the same belong to his wife. After asking the old man to wait in his shop Sri Naik rushed to his house and asked his wife to produce her nostril. Understanding the gravity of the situation she prayed to Thulasi Devi to save her from her husband’s wrath. While she was praying she heard a sound in the Jalapathra .To her astonishment she could see her identical diamond nostril in the vessel. She thanked God for the happenings and saving her thus.
Saraswathi Bai there after explained every thing to her husband.. Mr. Naik realized that the person who came to his house as old man seeking alms was Lord Vittala /Narayana himself and went in search of the old man at the shop. But none was there.
After the visit of the Divya Purusha in the old form an old Brahmin - self realization came to him from this point .He is reported to have toured India - as thirthayathra thrice in search of God and Truth. He is reported to have sung over 4 lacs songs praising Lord Vittala.. - Of which only few are available now.
In 1525 at his 40th year he came to Udupi and took Upadesam from Sri Vysaraya then Udupi Madathipathi. He thus became a Haridasar. Later Sathya Dharma thirtha Swamigal gave him the name as “ Purandara Dasar”
It is reported that once Bagawan Panduranga came in the form of Purandaradasar to the house of Ramadevi, a dasi, and asked her to sing songs in praise of Lord. After that he presented her with a Gold Kanganam. The next day the temple authorities reported that one of the Kanganam of the Lord is missing. When they found the same with the dasi they enquired about the same. She told that Sri.Purandaradasar who came to her house, gave the same to her. Believing that Dasar has stolen the same, he was tied to a pillar in the temple of Lord Vittala and started beating him. Soon a divine voice was heard that it was He who in the form of Dasar went to the house of the Dasi and gave the Kangan. Bagawan Panduranga thus showed to the world the greatness of the Dasar .He also ordered that henceforth - every day the first pooja/Arathi should be done to the pillar in which Purandara Dasar was tied. Even to day that practice is followed in the Pandaripuram Temple. Devi Saraswathi and Lord Venkateswara also reported to have given Darshan to Dasar at Tirupathi Temple. It is reported that the Unchavruthi Sampradaaya Marga ( making a living by singing the Glory of the Lord and seeking Alms ) was introduced to this world by Sri Purandara Dasa.
Dasar’s devoted wife Saraswathi Bai is said to have attained lord’s feet in the year 1549, when Dasar’s age was around 65. Dasar is reported to have attained Vaikunta Prapthi in the year 1564 on Pushya Bagula Ammavasai day (Saturday)- at Hampi. Even to-day at his samadhi place the death anniversary of this great saint poet is remembered, and celeberated as a Music Festival.It is reported that after his period two of his sons propagated the Dasar's songs.
Simple Language, Simple expressions, Full of Bakthi rasa etc are the specialties in the Dasar’s composition. As per the dictum that in Kali -Yuga Bhagawan’s singing of glory is the only easy way that would take us to mukthi –Saint Purandara Dasar in his composition have sung only about Glory of the Lord nothing else. More over as all his compositions were with special stress to Bhakthi , and can be equated to pure gold. It is reported that at that time No Varna/Raga/Mettu were prescribed for his krithees. Each one was singing his compositions in any raga/mettu/varna according to one’s interest and mano dharma. The present day Raga/Swara/Varnam etc came into existence only at the end of 18th Century. Even to-day his compositions are sung according to manodharma of the each indiviaual musicians.
Purandara Vittala is his mudra for all compositions. His compositions are popularly known as Dasara Padagalu or Dasara Devara Nama. Saint Thyagarajar also has praised Purandara Dasar in his Prahlada Bhakthi Vijayam. Some of the primary-basic lessons in carnatic music in the raga Maya malava Gowla/ Malahari etc with its Swaravali/Jantavarisai-Alankarams etc are the gift of the Saint Sri.Purandara Dasar to this world..
Such a great scholar of divine vision with music knowledge of par excellence lived among us just about 400 years ago! His Contribution to carnatic Music lovers is enviable. Let God’s vision be on us to know more and more about this Music Saint.
Monday, July 31, 2006
A VIEW ABOUT VIVAHA MANTRAS
Inside view about few important Vivaha Mantras
Vakdhanamcha, pradhanamcha, varanam,panipeedanam,
Sapthapadhinee- panchanko vivaham parikeerthitha :
The above sloka states that the following five are the important angas of our marriages
1. In Vakdhaanam: The bride’s father agrees and promises to give his daughter in marriage to the proposed bridegroom.
2. In Pradhaanam: The bride is given to bridegroom with all Streedhanams like jewels, dresses etc. The mantra for this part is chanted as under:
Kanyam, kanaka sampannam, kanakabharana bhushitham,Dhaasyami Vishnave Thubhyam Brahmaloka jigeeshaya
Viswarambara:, sarvabootha: Sakshina: sarvadevathaa:
Imam Kanyam pradhaasyami pitrunam tharanaya cha
Kanye mamagratho bhooya: Kanye mea bhava parswayo:
Kanyeme saravatho bhooya: twa dhaana moshamapnuyam
Imam kanyam praja sahathwa karmabhya: prathipadhayami.
Prathigrunnami ithi prathivachanam by bridegroom.
Kanya Samskara:- Divya mantra Snanam & New Bridal Dress
3.Varanam: The prospective bridegroom is considered as Lord Vishnu and all required upcharas are performed on him.
4.Paanigrahanam:-
The meaning of Panigrahana Mantras as under:-
All brides first belong to God Soma, Then they belong to gandharva and in the third place they belong to the Fire God. Having been possessed by such great beings, I am an ordinary mortal to take hold of you. But being blessed by the above Gods, I am confident that wealth, prosperity and children will accrue to me by taking you as my wife.
I am taking hold of your hand as a symbol of ever-lasting love and friendship between us, till we become old ,and as a pledge to bring forth good progeny. The Gods BAGAN , ARYAMAN, SAVITHA, INDRA have given you unto me to carry on the gruhastha Aasrama Dharma.. This gruhashta aasrama has been sanctified by the Gods from time immemorial and it is to this high heritage that I am now coming ,by taking your hand.
O Godess Saraswathi even as you have attained endless fortune and food may we too by this “Panigrahanam” attain wealth and grains,may we be blessed to love and live long happily .We will praise your glory in the presence of all living creatures.
May the Air ,who pervades every where and in all directions purify everything, who is the friend of Fire God, and who cooks all kind of food and is ready with gold in his hand to give to his devotees, may he enter our mind O Godess Saraswathi, and make our friendship everlasting.
5.Sapthapathi:-
The essence of the Sapthapathi mantras are as under:
i. May the Lord Narayana, who pervades the entire universe, satisfy your physical hunger by feeding you in response to the first step you are taking.
ii. May your second step give you physical strength by the grace of the Lord Narayana.
iii. May He follow your third step and help you fulfill your good actions.
iv. My He follow your fourth step to bless you with happiness
v. My He bless you with the wealth of cattle by following you fifth step.
vi. My He confer happiness on you during all the six seasons by following your sixth step.
vii. By following the seventh step of yours, may He bless you to perform the soma-sacrifice by the worship of the seven Ritviks, namely Hotha, Prasttha,Bhrahma-naathasamsi, Botha, Neshta,Acchavahan and Agnidhara.
“O” Bride of mine” I Pray to the Lord to bless you at every step of yours as though following me. By following me by taking seven steps with me you have become my friend. We shall be friends always and we shall never part from each other. By our coming together each one getting the other, we become happy radiant, and peaceful. We shall enjoy together health giving food and drinks and keep up our family life together. We shall consult each other in carrying out every piece of work. Let us put our minds together and try to think alike. Let us do righteous deeds together. Let us enjoy together whatever is to be gained by our senses and mind.
You are the rik and I am the Soma. I am the heaven and you are the earth. I am the mind and you are the spirit. May you- by following me to create Male progeny- ‘O’ you virgin of sweet worlds, come along with me.
By stepping on the stone, the bridegrooms chant/pray the following:-
“O bride you should stand on this stone- like this stone- you shall stand firm against all buffetings of life. You shall stand up fearless against those who resist you. “ O Virgin” you shall disgrace your enemies.
By doing pradhakshinam around Agni and asking the bride stand on the stone again the following words are recited by Bridegroom.
O fire God you have married the Virgin Godess “soorya” who is the friend of brides, and therefore, they are all under your kind control and guidance. Kindly give me a bride who is free from all blemish and who can bring forth my progeny. The fire God must give me a bride, who is beautiful healthy and long living. By your help we must be able to get across all enemies and difficulties.
Looking at the Stars: Arundhathi/Druva: By showing the the following stars the bridegroom to the bride, he prays as follows:
By looking at the star Arundhathi- the wife of Rishi Vasishta, and one of the krittikaas, who had attained the highest position in chastity and this was acknowledged by the other six Krittikaas ( wives of saptharishees) may my wife too be chaste and be reckoned by the world as the eight Krittikaa.
By showing the Dhruva star,in the northern direction, who has reached the immortal position with no destruction whatsoever, you are the symbol of stability and inspirer of stability in others. You are the polestar, the pole around which other stars revolve. My you protect us from the evil foes.
Samavarthanam for bridegroom, Sprouting of Palika, Kanyaka Samskaram for Bride, Vara Pooja, Nandee Sraadham,Kanyaka Dhanam,Mangalya Dharanam, Panigrahanam,Sapthapathee-Agniprdhakshinam, Main Homa, Lajahomam- Gruha pravesam, Pravesahomam, Jayathi Homam,Agne sthalipaka, Aupasanam, Noothana Gruha Pravesam,Seshahomam, Phaladhanam, thamboola charvanam, Mahaashirvadam are some of the important rituals , in the marriage.
To elaborate what is stated above , the important stages in Brahmin marriage are as under:-
Sending messages to the Vara and promise to give the proposed bride to the bridegroom by way of Nichyatartham.( Vaakdhaanam)
Samavarthanam ( vrathapoorthi and symbolic kasi yatra) : Brahmacharya Aasrama is for learning. At the end of completion of education and before marriage this samskaram to be performed for the bridegroom. This samskaram is done as prayaschitta for not correctly doing- or for not performing the required samskarams at the appropriate times from the birth of the bridegroom to the date of the marriage. After this the boy is leaving the bramacharya aasrama and entering the gruhastha aasrama.
Vara pooja, considering the Bridegroom as “VISHNU”.
Madhuparkam.( that is giving mixture of Honey and Curd) to be given to the bridegroom.
Kanyaka Dhanam-by chanting GOTHRAPRAVARA. Then follows Agni prathishta, Vivaha Sankalpa. Then Kanyaka Samskarams follows.
In the main Sankalpam the person who is doing KANYAKA DHANAM prays to the Lord Vishnu that his previous 10 generations and the coming 10 generations along with his generation thus totaling 21 generations, should get permanent Bliss in Brahma Loka. Thereafter considering the bridegroom as the “avatara of Vishnu” he is doing pooja to the VARA.
By Chanting the Gothra Pravarams the people gathered are announced about the proposed marriage. Thereafter the bride decorated with golden ornaments are given as Dhana to the bridegroom, who is considered as “Vishnu”, who has come to take the bride as dhanam to fulfill his sankalpam.
The bridegroom when he first see the bride has to chant some prayer mantras invoking Varuna, Bruhaspathi,Indra,and Soorya. The bridegroom also prays by the touching the forehead of the bride by porcupine needle or by dharba grass for driving away from her evil forces if any present in her for the welfare of the family.
After Kanyaka Mangala Snanam Noothana traditional Vastra Dharanam is followed by Mangalya Pooja. Thereafter placing symbolic wheel and Nukam over the head of the bride, some mantras are chantd. This is considered as auspicious and by this ritural all sins/blemishes of the bride are removed and purified. It is reported that Indra purified daughter of Athri Muni, ABALA, from her skin disease and made her a beautiful women by drawing her three times through the wheel, through the hole of the chariot and through the hole of the nukam. Placing of a ring made of dharba grass- symbolic nukam with holes, and placing a piece of Gold under the nukam the bridegroom is making a payer to Indra to purify the bride and remove from her all diseases.
In PANIGRAHANAM the bride would be holding the right hand of the bride by his right hand while chanting a set of prayers for the welfare of their family..
By performing Sapthapathi, Agni Pradhashinam, Asmaarohanam,laja homam, the bridegroom along with bride prays with God to give them all material things and confortable life. They also take oath to lead a Gruhasthasrama Life as ordained in scriptures.
Certain homams life Jayathi Homam, Pravesa Homam, Aupasana Homam, Sesha Homam etc etc are performed by the bridegroom along with the bride for their and their families welfare thereafter.
DHRUVA- ARUNTHATHI” Darsanam in the evening and prayer thereon are also important in a marriage.
The marriage is completed by Phala Dhanam, Thamboola Charvanam and Garbha dhana mantras and Maha Ashirvada Mantras.
Our marriage system is adopted after the marriage of “SOMAN”
WITH “SOORYA” ( daughter of Slavish ) A reference to this available in Rig Veda 10th Mandala, 85th Sooktha.
Apasthampar codified some of the mantras from all the four Vedas and created a treatise by name “ MANTRAPRASANAM”
Though the above text about marriage mantras are not exhaustive an attempt has been made to give all important aspects in brief. Trust the material would be of use to you.
Mangalam Bhavathu.
Vakdhanamcha, pradhanamcha, varanam,panipeedanam,
Sapthapadhinee- panchanko vivaham parikeerthitha :
The above sloka states that the following five are the important angas of our marriages
1. In Vakdhaanam: The bride’s father agrees and promises to give his daughter in marriage to the proposed bridegroom.
2. In Pradhaanam: The bride is given to bridegroom with all Streedhanams like jewels, dresses etc. The mantra for this part is chanted as under:
Kanyam, kanaka sampannam, kanakabharana bhushitham,Dhaasyami Vishnave Thubhyam Brahmaloka jigeeshaya
Viswarambara:, sarvabootha: Sakshina: sarvadevathaa:
Imam Kanyam pradhaasyami pitrunam tharanaya cha
Kanye mamagratho bhooya: Kanye mea bhava parswayo:
Kanyeme saravatho bhooya: twa dhaana moshamapnuyam
Imam kanyam praja sahathwa karmabhya: prathipadhayami.
Prathigrunnami ithi prathivachanam by bridegroom.
Kanya Samskara:- Divya mantra Snanam & New Bridal Dress
3.Varanam: The prospective bridegroom is considered as Lord Vishnu and all required upcharas are performed on him.
4.Paanigrahanam:-
The meaning of Panigrahana Mantras as under:-
All brides first belong to God Soma, Then they belong to gandharva and in the third place they belong to the Fire God. Having been possessed by such great beings, I am an ordinary mortal to take hold of you. But being blessed by the above Gods, I am confident that wealth, prosperity and children will accrue to me by taking you as my wife.
I am taking hold of your hand as a symbol of ever-lasting love and friendship between us, till we become old ,and as a pledge to bring forth good progeny. The Gods BAGAN , ARYAMAN, SAVITHA, INDRA have given you unto me to carry on the gruhastha Aasrama Dharma.. This gruhashta aasrama has been sanctified by the Gods from time immemorial and it is to this high heritage that I am now coming ,by taking your hand.
O Godess Saraswathi even as you have attained endless fortune and food may we too by this “Panigrahanam” attain wealth and grains,may we be blessed to love and live long happily .We will praise your glory in the presence of all living creatures.
May the Air ,who pervades every where and in all directions purify everything, who is the friend of Fire God, and who cooks all kind of food and is ready with gold in his hand to give to his devotees, may he enter our mind O Godess Saraswathi, and make our friendship everlasting.
5.Sapthapathi:-
The essence of the Sapthapathi mantras are as under:
i. May the Lord Narayana, who pervades the entire universe, satisfy your physical hunger by feeding you in response to the first step you are taking.
ii. May your second step give you physical strength by the grace of the Lord Narayana.
iii. May He follow your third step and help you fulfill your good actions.
iv. My He follow your fourth step to bless you with happiness
v. My He bless you with the wealth of cattle by following you fifth step.
vi. My He confer happiness on you during all the six seasons by following your sixth step.
vii. By following the seventh step of yours, may He bless you to perform the soma-sacrifice by the worship of the seven Ritviks, namely Hotha, Prasttha,Bhrahma-naathasamsi, Botha, Neshta,Acchavahan and Agnidhara.
“O” Bride of mine” I Pray to the Lord to bless you at every step of yours as though following me. By following me by taking seven steps with me you have become my friend. We shall be friends always and we shall never part from each other. By our coming together each one getting the other, we become happy radiant, and peaceful. We shall enjoy together health giving food and drinks and keep up our family life together. We shall consult each other in carrying out every piece of work. Let us put our minds together and try to think alike. Let us do righteous deeds together. Let us enjoy together whatever is to be gained by our senses and mind.
You are the rik and I am the Soma. I am the heaven and you are the earth. I am the mind and you are the spirit. May you- by following me to create Male progeny- ‘O’ you virgin of sweet worlds, come along with me.
By stepping on the stone, the bridegrooms chant/pray the following:-
“O bride you should stand on this stone- like this stone- you shall stand firm against all buffetings of life. You shall stand up fearless against those who resist you. “ O Virgin” you shall disgrace your enemies.
By doing pradhakshinam around Agni and asking the bride stand on the stone again the following words are recited by Bridegroom.
O fire God you have married the Virgin Godess “soorya” who is the friend of brides, and therefore, they are all under your kind control and guidance. Kindly give me a bride who is free from all blemish and who can bring forth my progeny. The fire God must give me a bride, who is beautiful healthy and long living. By your help we must be able to get across all enemies and difficulties.
Looking at the Stars: Arundhathi/Druva: By showing the the following stars the bridegroom to the bride, he prays as follows:
By looking at the star Arundhathi- the wife of Rishi Vasishta, and one of the krittikaas, who had attained the highest position in chastity and this was acknowledged by the other six Krittikaas ( wives of saptharishees) may my wife too be chaste and be reckoned by the world as the eight Krittikaa.
By showing the Dhruva star,in the northern direction, who has reached the immortal position with no destruction whatsoever, you are the symbol of stability and inspirer of stability in others. You are the polestar, the pole around which other stars revolve. My you protect us from the evil foes.
Samavarthanam for bridegroom, Sprouting of Palika, Kanyaka Samskaram for Bride, Vara Pooja, Nandee Sraadham,Kanyaka Dhanam,Mangalya Dharanam, Panigrahanam,Sapthapathee-Agniprdhakshinam, Main Homa, Lajahomam- Gruha pravesam, Pravesahomam, Jayathi Homam,Agne sthalipaka, Aupasanam, Noothana Gruha Pravesam,Seshahomam, Phaladhanam, thamboola charvanam, Mahaashirvadam are some of the important rituals , in the marriage.
To elaborate what is stated above , the important stages in Brahmin marriage are as under:-
Sending messages to the Vara and promise to give the proposed bride to the bridegroom by way of Nichyatartham.( Vaakdhaanam)
Samavarthanam ( vrathapoorthi and symbolic kasi yatra) : Brahmacharya Aasrama is for learning. At the end of completion of education and before marriage this samskaram to be performed for the bridegroom. This samskaram is done as prayaschitta for not correctly doing- or for not performing the required samskarams at the appropriate times from the birth of the bridegroom to the date of the marriage. After this the boy is leaving the bramacharya aasrama and entering the gruhastha aasrama.
Vara pooja, considering the Bridegroom as “VISHNU”.
Madhuparkam.( that is giving mixture of Honey and Curd) to be given to the bridegroom.
Kanyaka Dhanam-by chanting GOTHRAPRAVARA. Then follows Agni prathishta, Vivaha Sankalpa. Then Kanyaka Samskarams follows.
In the main Sankalpam the person who is doing KANYAKA DHANAM prays to the Lord Vishnu that his previous 10 generations and the coming 10 generations along with his generation thus totaling 21 generations, should get permanent Bliss in Brahma Loka. Thereafter considering the bridegroom as the “avatara of Vishnu” he is doing pooja to the VARA.
By Chanting the Gothra Pravarams the people gathered are announced about the proposed marriage. Thereafter the bride decorated with golden ornaments are given as Dhana to the bridegroom, who is considered as “Vishnu”, who has come to take the bride as dhanam to fulfill his sankalpam.
The bridegroom when he first see the bride has to chant some prayer mantras invoking Varuna, Bruhaspathi,Indra,and Soorya. The bridegroom also prays by the touching the forehead of the bride by porcupine needle or by dharba grass for driving away from her evil forces if any present in her for the welfare of the family.
After Kanyaka Mangala Snanam Noothana traditional Vastra Dharanam is followed by Mangalya Pooja. Thereafter placing symbolic wheel and Nukam over the head of the bride, some mantras are chantd. This is considered as auspicious and by this ritural all sins/blemishes of the bride are removed and purified. It is reported that Indra purified daughter of Athri Muni, ABALA, from her skin disease and made her a beautiful women by drawing her three times through the wheel, through the hole of the chariot and through the hole of the nukam. Placing of a ring made of dharba grass- symbolic nukam with holes, and placing a piece of Gold under the nukam the bridegroom is making a payer to Indra to purify the bride and remove from her all diseases.
In PANIGRAHANAM the bride would be holding the right hand of the bride by his right hand while chanting a set of prayers for the welfare of their family..
By performing Sapthapathi, Agni Pradhashinam, Asmaarohanam,laja homam, the bridegroom along with bride prays with God to give them all material things and confortable life. They also take oath to lead a Gruhasthasrama Life as ordained in scriptures.
Certain homams life Jayathi Homam, Pravesa Homam, Aupasana Homam, Sesha Homam etc etc are performed by the bridegroom along with the bride for their and their families welfare thereafter.
DHRUVA- ARUNTHATHI” Darsanam in the evening and prayer thereon are also important in a marriage.
The marriage is completed by Phala Dhanam, Thamboola Charvanam and Garbha dhana mantras and Maha Ashirvada Mantras.
Our marriage system is adopted after the marriage of “SOMAN”
WITH “SOORYA” ( daughter of Slavish ) A reference to this available in Rig Veda 10th Mandala, 85th Sooktha.
Apasthampar codified some of the mantras from all the four Vedas and created a treatise by name “ MANTRAPRASANAM”
Though the above text about marriage mantras are not exhaustive an attempt has been made to give all important aspects in brief. Trust the material would be of use to you.
Mangalam Bhavathu.
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
PLEASE BE FREE TO RAISE YOUR QUERIES AND COMMENTS.
DearReader,
Through this page you may raise you queries and clear your doubts. Welcome to make your comments and observations You may make your comments under the article itself or send you mail to the following ID brahmanasamskara@yahoo.co.in
Thanking you,
Through this page you may raise you queries and clear your doubts. Welcome to make your comments and observations You may make your comments under the article itself or send you mail to the following ID brahmanasamskara@yahoo.co.in
Thanking you,
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
ABOUT SOORYA NAMASKARA MANTRAS
Sree Gurubyo namaha- Hari: Om:
TAITAREEYA ARANYAKAM- ARUNAPRASNAM-SURYANAMASKARAMS
In Yajurveda- Taitareeya Sakha-Aaranyakam the very first prasna deals with Surya Upasana. The same is called in different names like Aruna Prasnam, Aarunam, Suryanamaskara Mantras, Surya-Upanishad etc. It contains 32 Anuvakas consisting of 132 Panchatees. These mantras in the Aarunam are mainly in praise of Sun God and deals with Soorya Upasana/Aruna Kethuka sayanam . By Chanting these mantras and doing namaskarams to the Sun God at sun rise time one can attain all Purusharthas, Extended Life Span with good health/fame/tejas etc.
Aarogyam Bhaskarat Ichet- As per this dictum if one inquest for good health; he should worship Sun God.
Janmantara Krutham Papam Vyadhi rupena Bhadhyadhe
Tat Shanthi Oushadhaihi- Dhaanaihi -Japa Homa -Archanadhibihi.
An Atma is returning to this world to complete one’s Sanchita Papas. It is believed that balance of papas is affecting one in the form of diseases. To over come that one has to take medicine and do japa, homa, Dhana Dharmas and other prayachitas.
Dharmartha Kama Mokshanam Aaarogyam Moolakaranam Rogaath Tasya Apaharthara: Sreyaso Jeevithasya cha.
One has to live in this world as ordained in the Sruthi and Smrithi Dharmas. Through Dharma Marga one has to earn Artha- ie. Wealth to fulfill one’s desires (Kamas). Moksham is the fourth stage in which one has to seek ways and means through a Guru to attain the same. Good and sound health is the prime requirement to lead an ideal life as stated in above sloka.. Diseases prevents one from doing his duties. Hence to have a continuous good health one has to pray God. Aruna Prasnam contains such mantras that have to be chanted..
In Aruna Prasnam though the presiding deity is Sun God, prayer is also made to many other devathas like Saraswathi, Jala,Devathas-Vayu,Varuna,Agni,Kuberas,Vaisravanas,Indra,Chandra,Maruthganas,
Gandharvaganas, Aswini Devas, and Adithi etc.etc. through mantras .Mention about creation of the universe, Soorya Mandalam, changing of seasons, climate,ways and means about yagnas etc find a place here.
In Aarunam happening of Day /night, paksha, masa, rithu, Ayanam, samvatsaram etc are explained in detail with attributes to Sun God. Six rithus- vasanthm, greeshmam, varsham, sarath, hemantham, sisiram are explained in detail in the first 20 Panchatees. (up to 6th Anuvakam)
In the 7th Anuvakam explanation is given about the Soorya Mandalam and about the 8 Adithyas i.e Arogan, Braja: Padara: Pathanga: Swarnan, Jothisheeman, Vibhasa: and Kasyapan.Explanation relating Maha Meru is also mentioned in this Anuvaka.
In the 8th Anuvaka- Rishis Panchakarnar, Sapthakarnar, Pranatrathar, who have seen Soorya Mandalam explain about the kalas/time-death/how the world stands etc. The reason and cause of death finds a mention here.With prayer to Agni to lead us in righteous direction this anuvaka ends.There is also mention about Kala Mruthyu and Akala Mruthyu here.
It is Jamadagni Rishi who is instrumental in propagating UPSANA Marga. He is the propagator for all Chandas.In 9th anuvaka prayers to Agni - Vayu – Gandharva- and Maruth Ganas, Godess Saraswathi are given. How to overcome Apamruthyu is mentioned in this Anuvaka. 10th Anuvaka contain prayer to Aswini Devas, and in the 11th the Glory of the Sun God is explained. He is mentioned as the provider of food for the entire universe. One of the Saptharishis – Rishi Athri is reported to have created this JAGATH with the help of Sooshma Jagath Karana Vasthu. Here it is stated that one who effectively and in prescribed manner performs the Sooryopasana would become an ever-lasting star in the universe like the Saptharishis.
Rishi Angiras found out and narrated some mantras from his samadhi. His son “ Shyavaswar” propagated these mantras and the method of Chanting mantras. Gayathri mantra in praise of Sun God is also finding a place in this Anuvaka. Sareera Dharmas like happiness, sorrow, and sensual pleasures are explained, as relating to some part of the body and they have no connection and do not beloning to “Aatma”
In 12th Anuvaka prayer to Lord Indra to protect us is made .In 13th Anuvaka prakruthi tatwa, Atma tatwa, childrens of Bhudevi, Adhithi Devatha Mantras are given. Adithi Devi got her first 7 children through her likings they are Mithran, Varunan, Dhadha, Aryaman, Amsan, Bagan, Vivaswan.8th child - Marthandan (Sun God) was abandoned by her because of dislike, became a Mrithyu devatha. Life Span of all jeevas reduces with the rise and setting of the Marthandan.This is called Kala Mruthyu. Sun God is worshipped in Sandhya Kala to give us extended life span from Kala Mruthyu.
In 14/15/16 prayers to Sun God are mentioned. In 17/18 Rudra Swaroopi Vayu Lord 's prayer is available. In Anuvaka 19 various Narakas/Hell are explained. They are Visarpi/Avisarpi-Vishadhi/Avishadi etc.
In 20 and 21 Aruna Kethuka Sayanam is explained.
In Anuvaka 22 prayer to jaladevatha (water) is given. One of the tatwa mantras Yopam Pushpam Veda…. is explained in detail here. In 23 rd anuvaka the importance of powerful sankalpam to fulfil one's desire is elucidated. Birth relating to Devas and Asuras are mentioned here. There is also mention about Mahat Jalam/ Jagat Srushti in this anuvaka.
In 24/25/26 Method of Aruna Kethuka Sayanam, procurement of water from six different sources,creation of uttaravedi, spreading of Lotus leaves, Lotus Stem, Agni Prathisha etc are mentioned here.
In Anuvaka 27 sareera consists of 8 datus like skin, blood, flesh, medhas,bone, majja,suklam, ojas are explained. Elucidation about Nava Dwaras in human body,Old age, acquiring diseases, rebirth, Moksham etc etc. are available in this Anuvaka. Essence of Para Brahma Tatwa is reported in this Anuvaka.
In Anuvaka 28 how to pray to Agni Lord are explained. In 29th Anuvaka Lord Parjanya (rain God) is praised. In 30th prayer for Deerga Ayu: by increase of "Retha" is made. Anuvaka 31 Vaisravana Yagna and prayer to Kubera to fulfill all our desires are made. Aruna Kethuka Sayanam Vratham is explained in 32nd Anuvaka.
It can be seen that by chanting the the Aruna Prasnam at sun rise time we would be able to acquire all purusharthas- along with good health and increased life span.
Subham Asthu.
TAITAREEYA ARANYAKAM- ARUNAPRASNAM-SURYANAMASKARAMS
In Yajurveda- Taitareeya Sakha-Aaranyakam the very first prasna deals with Surya Upasana. The same is called in different names like Aruna Prasnam, Aarunam, Suryanamaskara Mantras, Surya-Upanishad etc. It contains 32 Anuvakas consisting of 132 Panchatees. These mantras in the Aarunam are mainly in praise of Sun God and deals with Soorya Upasana/Aruna Kethuka sayanam . By Chanting these mantras and doing namaskarams to the Sun God at sun rise time one can attain all Purusharthas, Extended Life Span with good health/fame/tejas etc.
Aarogyam Bhaskarat Ichet- As per this dictum if one inquest for good health; he should worship Sun God.
Janmantara Krutham Papam Vyadhi rupena Bhadhyadhe
Tat Shanthi Oushadhaihi- Dhaanaihi -Japa Homa -Archanadhibihi.
An Atma is returning to this world to complete one’s Sanchita Papas. It is believed that balance of papas is affecting one in the form of diseases. To over come that one has to take medicine and do japa, homa, Dhana Dharmas and other prayachitas.
Dharmartha Kama Mokshanam Aaarogyam Moolakaranam Rogaath Tasya Apaharthara: Sreyaso Jeevithasya cha.
One has to live in this world as ordained in the Sruthi and Smrithi Dharmas. Through Dharma Marga one has to earn Artha- ie. Wealth to fulfill one’s desires (Kamas). Moksham is the fourth stage in which one has to seek ways and means through a Guru to attain the same. Good and sound health is the prime requirement to lead an ideal life as stated in above sloka.. Diseases prevents one from doing his duties. Hence to have a continuous good health one has to pray God. Aruna Prasnam contains such mantras that have to be chanted..
In Aruna Prasnam though the presiding deity is Sun God, prayer is also made to many other devathas like Saraswathi, Jala,Devathas-Vayu,Varuna,Agni,Kuberas,Vaisravanas,Indra,Chandra,Maruthganas,
Gandharvaganas, Aswini Devas, and Adithi etc.etc. through mantras .Mention about creation of the universe, Soorya Mandalam, changing of seasons, climate,ways and means about yagnas etc find a place here.
In Aarunam happening of Day /night, paksha, masa, rithu, Ayanam, samvatsaram etc are explained in detail with attributes to Sun God. Six rithus- vasanthm, greeshmam, varsham, sarath, hemantham, sisiram are explained in detail in the first 20 Panchatees. (up to 6th Anuvakam)
In the 7th Anuvakam explanation is given about the Soorya Mandalam and about the 8 Adithyas i.e Arogan, Braja: Padara: Pathanga: Swarnan, Jothisheeman, Vibhasa: and Kasyapan.Explanation relating Maha Meru is also mentioned in this Anuvaka.
In the 8th Anuvaka- Rishis Panchakarnar, Sapthakarnar, Pranatrathar, who have seen Soorya Mandalam explain about the kalas/time-death/how the world stands etc. The reason and cause of death finds a mention here.With prayer to Agni to lead us in righteous direction this anuvaka ends.There is also mention about Kala Mruthyu and Akala Mruthyu here.
It is Jamadagni Rishi who is instrumental in propagating UPSANA Marga. He is the propagator for all Chandas.In 9th anuvaka prayers to Agni - Vayu – Gandharva- and Maruth Ganas, Godess Saraswathi are given. How to overcome Apamruthyu is mentioned in this Anuvaka. 10th Anuvaka contain prayer to Aswini Devas, and in the 11th the Glory of the Sun God is explained. He is mentioned as the provider of food for the entire universe. One of the Saptharishis – Rishi Athri is reported to have created this JAGATH with the help of Sooshma Jagath Karana Vasthu. Here it is stated that one who effectively and in prescribed manner performs the Sooryopasana would become an ever-lasting star in the universe like the Saptharishis.
Rishi Angiras found out and narrated some mantras from his samadhi. His son “ Shyavaswar” propagated these mantras and the method of Chanting mantras. Gayathri mantra in praise of Sun God is also finding a place in this Anuvaka. Sareera Dharmas like happiness, sorrow, and sensual pleasures are explained, as relating to some part of the body and they have no connection and do not beloning to “Aatma”
In 12th Anuvaka prayer to Lord Indra to protect us is made .In 13th Anuvaka prakruthi tatwa, Atma tatwa, childrens of Bhudevi, Adhithi Devatha Mantras are given. Adithi Devi got her first 7 children through her likings they are Mithran, Varunan, Dhadha, Aryaman, Amsan, Bagan, Vivaswan.8th child - Marthandan (Sun God) was abandoned by her because of dislike, became a Mrithyu devatha. Life Span of all jeevas reduces with the rise and setting of the Marthandan.This is called Kala Mruthyu. Sun God is worshipped in Sandhya Kala to give us extended life span from Kala Mruthyu.
In 14/15/16 prayers to Sun God are mentioned. In 17/18 Rudra Swaroopi Vayu Lord 's prayer is available. In Anuvaka 19 various Narakas/Hell are explained. They are Visarpi/Avisarpi-Vishadhi/Avishadi etc.
In 20 and 21 Aruna Kethuka Sayanam is explained.
In Anuvaka 22 prayer to jaladevatha (water) is given. One of the tatwa mantras Yopam Pushpam Veda…. is explained in detail here. In 23 rd anuvaka the importance of powerful sankalpam to fulfil one's desire is elucidated. Birth relating to Devas and Asuras are mentioned here. There is also mention about Mahat Jalam/ Jagat Srushti in this anuvaka.
In 24/25/26 Method of Aruna Kethuka Sayanam, procurement of water from six different sources,creation of uttaravedi, spreading of Lotus leaves, Lotus Stem, Agni Prathisha etc are mentioned here.
In Anuvaka 27 sareera consists of 8 datus like skin, blood, flesh, medhas,bone, majja,suklam, ojas are explained. Elucidation about Nava Dwaras in human body,Old age, acquiring diseases, rebirth, Moksham etc etc. are available in this Anuvaka. Essence of Para Brahma Tatwa is reported in this Anuvaka.
In Anuvaka 28 how to pray to Agni Lord are explained. In 29th Anuvaka Lord Parjanya (rain God) is praised. In 30th prayer for Deerga Ayu: by increase of "Retha" is made. Anuvaka 31 Vaisravana Yagna and prayer to Kubera to fulfill all our desires are made. Aruna Kethuka Sayanam Vratham is explained in 32nd Anuvaka.
It can be seen that by chanting the the Aruna Prasnam at sun rise time we would be able to acquire all purusharthas- along with good health and increased life span.
Subham Asthu.
Monday, May 08, 2006
SRIMAD BAGAVATHAM SOME POINTS TO PONDER
BAGAVATHAM POINTS TO PONDER
Jivathma gets a human body and mind after having been embodied in 84 lacs inferior births-like creatures, insects, animals etc. as per Srimad Bagavatham. Sri Udhava, one of the best friends of Lord Krishna, requests him to do something for the innumerable lives, that would be tormented by Kali (in kaliyuga). Considering the request of Udhava, Lord agrees to transfer all His Excellence and Lusture to Srimad Bagavatham. This is the greatness of this epic.
About human mind the following facts appear in this Grantham. :-
Mind is a bundle of vasanas (tendency or disposition to repeat or do it again) All vasanas are formed in human mind initially corresponding to individual action in the previous birth. The mind develops-Raga (attachment for pleasures) and dvesha i.e (aversion for pain). It does action to secure pleasures and to avoid pains.
From the inborn vasanas arise desire. The desires are translated into actions in the outer world with the help of organs. One desire would cause innumerable actions.
Mind of a person according to its particular function at a particular time is called by names mind, intellect, the “I” or egoity mindstuff. Etc. It is made of subtle matter and has no consciousness. Inert mind acquires power to think because of its proximity to the self (consciousness) reflected in it. Self is reflection of the “Brahman” in every Jeeva.
Mind is such wonderful safe keeping place that it can hold the greatest of secrets that even an iron safe cannot and can travel with faster than any know speed. Because of these factors mind is always restless and would be wandering everywhere in the cosmos universe. Wandering mind cannot concentrate on any one thing even for a fraction of a minute. It defies control. To achieve control /concentration and to get direction to the mind to act correctly/promptly/ rightly and in time along with knowledge of self (i.e “Brahman”) Yoga/meditation is required and not medication which is now in practice.
Organs of perceptions and organs of action will not work unless the mind is behind and co-operate with. Mind can do only one thing at a time; ie. The eye of eye or ear of the ear. Totally all our vasanas of the actions in all previous lives is “sanchitha karma”. Out of a huge pile of Sanchita Karma, a small portion become mature. while executing the “Prarabhdha Karma”. While executing this karma we do many actions producing fresh vasanas that are called “Aagamika Karma” which accumulate again into“Sanchita Karma. For liberation from the cycle of births and deaths all the above three must be exhausted. This can be done and burnt only by gaining knowledge of the “Self” developed through Bhakti to Bhagavan.
Mind has three state of “Avasthas” JAGRAT- SWAPNA AND SUSHUPTHI. (waking state- dreaming state- dreamless sleep state) One can either go to sleep or awake from sleep only in the above order. In the first state he is conscious of everything around him except himself (the subject of this state is caused by SATVAGUNA. In the second state mind perceive something without a corresponding reality outside – is caused by RAJOGUNA. In dreamless sleep state is caused by TAMOGUNA. In this state the mind, the intellect, the ego, etc merge in the mind stuff. Mind stuff merges in the ATMA or consciousness. Atma alone exist in this state. Mind takes its origin from ignorance. MAYA AND ESWARA alone can control it and hence the necessity of Bhakti towards the “paramathma” Jeevathma means the self plus the mind.
For all human actions there must be two things. 1. the Subject – the actor-experiencer 2. the object the stimuli (eg: sound, touch, form, taste, smell) attached to the external world of things.
In individual subject, the actor- there are fourteen organs: - They are Five organs of perceptions (eg: eye, ear, skin, nostrils, tongue) five organs of actions (eg. Speech, hands, legs, the organ of reproduction and organ or excretion) the mind, the intellect, plus egoity plus the mind stuff
“Jeevathma” is embodies in the form of a living being has to meet great sorrows: They are like the sorrow of having to be enclosed in the womb- a silent sufferer (2) the sorrow of birth and infancy when one cannot move about or express any of the wishes (3) the sorrow of diseases (4) the sorrow of old age (5) the sorrow/ fear of death etc. Added to the above sorrows are of poverty, childlessness, humiliation, disappoints etc. etc. Every time happiness evades him the perplexed “Jeevathma” is constantly engaged in action after action for the acquisition of material objects to attain happiness.
Totally giving up of all the results/ fruits of the action in the God – worldly sorrows vanishes. ‘ TAT TWAM ASI”.- That Univesal Truth is yourself. AHAM BHRAHMASMI- that I am the God are the MAHAT THATHWAS. In every body thee is God .The real “I” is not “I” but you the God. /Eswara/ Bhagavan. One who control s his mind is called Eswara. “ATMA” is God which has attributes. “BAHAGA” is called ATTRIBUTES. God possesses the six qualities/ attributes. They are Power to command everything else “AISWARYA”.To defeat any enemy ‘VEERYA”, Unobstructed knowledge of every thing ‘YASAS-/FAME/JNANA”. Unlimited wealth and prosperity “ wealth/SRI”. Non-attachment to prakrithi and material objects “VAIRAGYA”. So remove the MAYA/AVIDHYA from the mind with VIDHYA-/KNOWLEDGE of the “Brahman” which is inside you.
Guidance factor can never be the same for all. Countless are the vasanas the temperament, or knowledge level of every individual. Hence it is not possible to find an uniform system of conduct to suit all beings. Any amount of advice would be of no use-unless there is likelihood of the same being followed. Exert yourself as much as you can about the right course in every effort of yours. Your- will must succeed in the end.
In general one says that he is happy when he gets the things he is longing for. At the time when one desires something, his mind is in a state of unrest, but when he gets the thing longed for – the state of unrest is replaced by a sense of peace. Similarly, we say we are happy when we get rid of a thing, which we loathed. At the time when we loathe something our mind is restless. But when we get rid of that thing, our mind becomes calm. Therefore, happiness follows when a preceding state of unrest is ended.
Make honest and sincere attempt to regain and retain your inner peace and happiness. Never let go your birth right of peace,contentment and happiness and never neglect to do your duties.
Please post your comments here or through brahmanasamskara@yahoo.co.in
Jivathma gets a human body and mind after having been embodied in 84 lacs inferior births-like creatures, insects, animals etc. as per Srimad Bagavatham. Sri Udhava, one of the best friends of Lord Krishna, requests him to do something for the innumerable lives, that would be tormented by Kali (in kaliyuga). Considering the request of Udhava, Lord agrees to transfer all His Excellence and Lusture to Srimad Bagavatham. This is the greatness of this epic.
About human mind the following facts appear in this Grantham. :-
Mind is a bundle of vasanas (tendency or disposition to repeat or do it again) All vasanas are formed in human mind initially corresponding to individual action in the previous birth. The mind develops-Raga (attachment for pleasures) and dvesha i.e (aversion for pain). It does action to secure pleasures and to avoid pains.
From the inborn vasanas arise desire. The desires are translated into actions in the outer world with the help of organs. One desire would cause innumerable actions.
Mind of a person according to its particular function at a particular time is called by names mind, intellect, the “I” or egoity mindstuff. Etc. It is made of subtle matter and has no consciousness. Inert mind acquires power to think because of its proximity to the self (consciousness) reflected in it. Self is reflection of the “Brahman” in every Jeeva.
Mind is such wonderful safe keeping place that it can hold the greatest of secrets that even an iron safe cannot and can travel with faster than any know speed. Because of these factors mind is always restless and would be wandering everywhere in the cosmos universe. Wandering mind cannot concentrate on any one thing even for a fraction of a minute. It defies control. To achieve control /concentration and to get direction to the mind to act correctly/promptly/ rightly and in time along with knowledge of self (i.e “Brahman”) Yoga/meditation is required and not medication which is now in practice.
Organs of perceptions and organs of action will not work unless the mind is behind and co-operate with. Mind can do only one thing at a time; ie. The eye of eye or ear of the ear. Totally all our vasanas of the actions in all previous lives is “sanchitha karma”. Out of a huge pile of Sanchita Karma, a small portion become mature. while executing the “Prarabhdha Karma”. While executing this karma we do many actions producing fresh vasanas that are called “Aagamika Karma” which accumulate again into“Sanchita Karma. For liberation from the cycle of births and deaths all the above three must be exhausted. This can be done and burnt only by gaining knowledge of the “Self” developed through Bhakti to Bhagavan.
Mind has three state of “Avasthas” JAGRAT- SWAPNA AND SUSHUPTHI. (waking state- dreaming state- dreamless sleep state) One can either go to sleep or awake from sleep only in the above order. In the first state he is conscious of everything around him except himself (the subject of this state is caused by SATVAGUNA. In the second state mind perceive something without a corresponding reality outside – is caused by RAJOGUNA. In dreamless sleep state is caused by TAMOGUNA. In this state the mind, the intellect, the ego, etc merge in the mind stuff. Mind stuff merges in the ATMA or consciousness. Atma alone exist in this state. Mind takes its origin from ignorance. MAYA AND ESWARA alone can control it and hence the necessity of Bhakti towards the “paramathma” Jeevathma means the self plus the mind.
For all human actions there must be two things. 1. the Subject – the actor-experiencer 2. the object the stimuli (eg: sound, touch, form, taste, smell) attached to the external world of things.
In individual subject, the actor- there are fourteen organs: - They are Five organs of perceptions (eg: eye, ear, skin, nostrils, tongue) five organs of actions (eg. Speech, hands, legs, the organ of reproduction and organ or excretion) the mind, the intellect, plus egoity plus the mind stuff
“Jeevathma” is embodies in the form of a living being has to meet great sorrows: They are like the sorrow of having to be enclosed in the womb- a silent sufferer (2) the sorrow of birth and infancy when one cannot move about or express any of the wishes (3) the sorrow of diseases (4) the sorrow of old age (5) the sorrow/ fear of death etc. Added to the above sorrows are of poverty, childlessness, humiliation, disappoints etc. etc. Every time happiness evades him the perplexed “Jeevathma” is constantly engaged in action after action for the acquisition of material objects to attain happiness.
Totally giving up of all the results/ fruits of the action in the God – worldly sorrows vanishes. ‘ TAT TWAM ASI”.- That Univesal Truth is yourself. AHAM BHRAHMASMI- that I am the God are the MAHAT THATHWAS. In every body thee is God .The real “I” is not “I” but you the God. /Eswara/ Bhagavan. One who control s his mind is called Eswara. “ATMA” is God which has attributes. “BAHAGA” is called ATTRIBUTES. God possesses the six qualities/ attributes. They are Power to command everything else “AISWARYA”.To defeat any enemy ‘VEERYA”, Unobstructed knowledge of every thing ‘YASAS-/FAME/JNANA”. Unlimited wealth and prosperity “ wealth/SRI”. Non-attachment to prakrithi and material objects “VAIRAGYA”. So remove the MAYA/AVIDHYA from the mind with VIDHYA-/KNOWLEDGE of the “Brahman” which is inside you.
Guidance factor can never be the same for all. Countless are the vasanas the temperament, or knowledge level of every individual. Hence it is not possible to find an uniform system of conduct to suit all beings. Any amount of advice would be of no use-unless there is likelihood of the same being followed. Exert yourself as much as you can about the right course in every effort of yours. Your- will must succeed in the end.
In general one says that he is happy when he gets the things he is longing for. At the time when one desires something, his mind is in a state of unrest, but when he gets the thing longed for – the state of unrest is replaced by a sense of peace. Similarly, we say we are happy when we get rid of a thing, which we loathed. At the time when we loathe something our mind is restless. But when we get rid of that thing, our mind becomes calm. Therefore, happiness follows when a preceding state of unrest is ended.
Make honest and sincere attempt to regain and retain your inner peace and happiness. Never let go your birth right of peace,contentment and happiness and never neglect to do your duties.
Please post your comments here or through brahmanasamskara@yahoo.co.in
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
SOME INSIDE VIEW ABOUT RAMAYANA
SOME INSIDE REFLECTIONS FROM VALMIKI RAMAYANA: -
Rishi Valmiki was a contemporary of Lord Sri Rama. Ramayana is one of the two ITHIHASAS. Ithihasa means it is scripted during the period of the person whose story is depicted in it. It is almost like an autobiography. Sri Valmiki Ramayana Ithihasa was scripted during the ruling period of Lord Sri Rama, and was chanted before Him and duly approved. .
Rishi Valmiki is the son of Varuna, God presiding over Water. He enquires with Sage Narada, that who is the person in the world with full of virtues ? Who is the best person in the world with right conduct ? Who is the man of knowledge ? Who is best person in valour and who has also conquered anger ? etc. etc. To these various questions Sage Narada explains and tell the Rama Katha-depicting the Glory of Lord Rama. Sage Narada also states that reader of this narrative story centering round Lord Sri Rama, ensures longevity, and achieves heaven with his sons,grandsons along with attendants and followers. He also states that a Brahmin who chants His glories attain eminence in eloquence.
Later Brahma gives His Blessings to the Sage Valmiki and asks him to script the story of Lord Sri Rama as he heard from Sage Narada Brahma also blesses Sage Valmiki that he would be able to visualise the Rama Katha in its entirety and no discreptions of his, in this epic, that would be composed by him will prove false. Brahma also approves the pattern for this poetry that is set to 4 metrical feet and each containing equal number of letters. This metrical length is derived from his first sloka scripted when he saw two copulating swans in distress shot by a fowler:
MA NISHADA PRADHISHTAM TWAMAGAMA SASWATHEE SAMAA:
YATH KROUNCHA MITHUNADEKAM AVATHEE: KAMAMOTHITHAM.
We also understand that Sage Valmiki is inspired by the 24 letters of the Gayathri mantra to complete the 24000 slokas in his Rama Katha - known as Sri Ramayana.
Lord’s Ramaavathara is for ending the life cycle of Jaya and Vijaya the attendants of Lord Vishnu under curse- born as Ravana and Kumbakarna. This happens to be their second birth out of the destined three- through Vairagya Bhakti.
This avathara of Lord as ordinary human being is also for our guidance as to how one should live in this world following Dharma and make one’s life purposeful.
When Sri Parvathi, Lord Siva’s consort asked Him as to what is easiest of ways to Praise Lord Vishnu’s Sahasranamas, He states that chanting of Rama Nama i.e. also called Taraka Nama is equivalent to praising the Sahasra Namas of Lord Vishnu.Such is the glory of ‘SRI RAMA NAMA”.
Rishi Valmiki was a contemporary of Lord Sri Rama. Ramayana is one of the two ITHIHASAS. Ithihasa means it is scripted during the period of the person whose story is depicted in it. It is almost like an autobiography. Sri Valmiki Ramayana Ithihasa was scripted during the ruling period of Lord Sri Rama, and was chanted before Him and duly approved. .
Rishi Valmiki is the son of Varuna, God presiding over Water. He enquires with Sage Narada, that who is the person in the world with full of virtues ? Who is the best person in the world with right conduct ? Who is the man of knowledge ? Who is best person in valour and who has also conquered anger ? etc. etc. To these various questions Sage Narada explains and tell the Rama Katha-depicting the Glory of Lord Rama. Sage Narada also states that reader of this narrative story centering round Lord Sri Rama, ensures longevity, and achieves heaven with his sons,grandsons along with attendants and followers. He also states that a Brahmin who chants His glories attain eminence in eloquence.
Later Brahma gives His Blessings to the Sage Valmiki and asks him to script the story of Lord Sri Rama as he heard from Sage Narada Brahma also blesses Sage Valmiki that he would be able to visualise the Rama Katha in its entirety and no discreptions of his, in this epic, that would be composed by him will prove false. Brahma also approves the pattern for this poetry that is set to 4 metrical feet and each containing equal number of letters. This metrical length is derived from his first sloka scripted when he saw two copulating swans in distress shot by a fowler:
MA NISHADA PRADHISHTAM TWAMAGAMA SASWATHEE SAMAA:
YATH KROUNCHA MITHUNADEKAM AVATHEE: KAMAMOTHITHAM.
We also understand that Sage Valmiki is inspired by the 24 letters of the Gayathri mantra to complete the 24000 slokas in his Rama Katha - known as Sri Ramayana.
Lord’s Ramaavathara is for ending the life cycle of Jaya and Vijaya the attendants of Lord Vishnu under curse- born as Ravana and Kumbakarna. This happens to be their second birth out of the destined three- through Vairagya Bhakti.
This avathara of Lord as ordinary human being is also for our guidance as to how one should live in this world following Dharma and make one’s life purposeful.
When Sri Parvathi, Lord Siva’s consort asked Him as to what is easiest of ways to Praise Lord Vishnu’s Sahasranamas, He states that chanting of Rama Nama i.e. also called Taraka Nama is equivalent to praising the Sahasra Namas of Lord Vishnu.Such is the glory of ‘SRI RAMA NAMA”.
Monday, March 13, 2006
Read one article every month
Dear Readers,
My endeavour is to publish one article atleast every month by first week.
Please post critical comments, observations, shortfalls, etc. in the web site itself or by your mail brahamanasamskara@yahoo.com.in
Please do not hestitate to raise questions if any, relating to the subject. I would try to find out the acceptable answers to all your questions. thanking you, Yours sincerely Sapathagiri.
My endeavour is to publish one article atleast every month by first week.
Please post critical comments, observations, shortfalls, etc. in the web site itself or by your mail brahamanasamskara@yahoo.com.in
Please do not hestitate to raise questions if any, relating to the subject. I would try to find out the acceptable answers to all your questions. thanking you, Yours sincerely Sapathagiri.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
KALACHAKRA-TIME OF THE WORLD
KAALA-CHAKRA:THE TIME.
===================
A Healthy person’s normal one inhaling and exhaling time is considered as 4 seconds. This is also called one “ praanakaala”. Six such praanakaala time would make 24 seconds or one “ Vinaadi”.( Two and half Vinadi is 60 seconds i.e one minute) One “Naazhika” is equal to 24 minutes. 60 Naazhikas are equal to 24 hours- that is one day- One sayana day or 21,600- praanakaalam. A person daily does 21,600 inhaling and exhaling.
One year consists of 365 days 15 Naazhikas, 22 Vinadees. This is called one Samvatsaram. Kaliyugam consists of 1200 Deva Varsha which is equivalent to 4,32,000 Maanava Varsha. Totally a Chaturyuga consists of 12000 Deva varsha or 43,20,000 Maanava Varsha.
It is reported that a person’s poorna aayu: as 120 maanava years
It is believed that out of four chaturyugas of this mahayuga we are in the Fourthyuga that is Kaliyuga. One Mahayuga consists of the following:-
Krutha Yuga- 17,28,000 years, Treta Yuga 12,96,000 years, Dwapara Yuga 8,64,000 years. Kali Yuga 4,32,000 years.
1000 such Mahayugas are ruled by 14 Manus. First Manu was Swaayambhuva Manu.
Now it is the period of Vaivaswatha Manu. Out of 7 Kalpam starting from Parthiva Kalpam we are now in the fifth, i.e in Swetha Varaha Kalpam to be followed by Brahma Kalpam and Savithra Kalpam. So far 27 Chatur Yugas are over and we are in the 28th Chatur Yuga. -Aòa ivA Span of 1000 Chatur Yuga is reported as one day time of Brahma.
Brahma’s life span is reported as 100 years. It is said that when Brahma goes to sleep- after completion of His day- The first three worlds out of the 7 upward worlds i.e Bhoo, Bhuva, Sswha would be dissolved by pralaya ( deluge). By this pralaya however, Maha:, Jana,Tapo and Sathya Lokas would not be affected.
As on date nearly 50% of the Life Span of the present Brahma is over. Our Bhoo Loka is in between 7 Paatala Lokas below and 6 Upper Lokas above. Out of 7 Oceans we are surrounded by Salt ocean. Out of 7 Dweepams in the earth we are in Jambu Dweepam and are following Bharata Varsha and are in the BharataKhanda. When we are doing Sankalpam, we generally quote the particular time and period starting from the beginning of the creation of this world by the Lord. That is to say we time and again dedicate ourselves to the Glory of the Lord by quoting the Kalachakra.
Aadhya---- Brahmanaha: Dwetheeya Paraadhe, Swetha Varaha Kalpe, Vaivaswatha Manvanthare, Ashtaa vimsathi Thame( i.e 28th Chatur Yuge)Kaliyuge, Pradhame Paade (First Quarter of Kaliyuga), Jambu Dweepe, Bharata Varshe,Bharata Khande,Meroho Dakshine Parswe ( South side of the Maha Meru) etc.
Apart from the above, we quote the particular name of the year ( out of the 60 cyclic years), and whether the samkalpam period is in Uttaraayana or in Dakshinayana. The name of the Rithu, Star, Paksha, Thithi, Yoga, and Karana etc etc. applicable to the moment of the Samkalpa time are also recited when we are doing a Samkalpa. That is to say the entire Kaala Chakra Periods as applicable to particular samkalpa time are being chanted from time to time, to praise the Glory of the Lord. Utimately we also accept in the Samkalpa of the fact that this world, the week, the days, the stars, the thithi etc etc. are all His manifestations only and there is nothing in this world without the Almighty, the omnipotent, Omnipresent, the Omniscient.
Note: Your valueable suggestions and value addition are most welcome
Please post your mail to the following email id. brahmanasamskara@yahoo.co.in
===================
A Healthy person’s normal one inhaling and exhaling time is considered as 4 seconds. This is also called one “ praanakaala”. Six such praanakaala time would make 24 seconds or one “ Vinaadi”.( Two and half Vinadi is 60 seconds i.e one minute) One “Naazhika” is equal to 24 minutes. 60 Naazhikas are equal to 24 hours- that is one day- One sayana day or 21,600- praanakaalam. A person daily does 21,600 inhaling and exhaling.
One year consists of 365 days 15 Naazhikas, 22 Vinadees. This is called one Samvatsaram. Kaliyugam consists of 1200 Deva Varsha which is equivalent to 4,32,000 Maanava Varsha. Totally a Chaturyuga consists of 12000 Deva varsha or 43,20,000 Maanava Varsha.
It is reported that a person’s poorna aayu: as 120 maanava years
It is believed that out of four chaturyugas of this mahayuga we are in the Fourthyuga that is Kaliyuga. One Mahayuga consists of the following:-
Krutha Yuga- 17,28,000 years, Treta Yuga 12,96,000 years, Dwapara Yuga 8,64,000 years. Kali Yuga 4,32,000 years.
1000 such Mahayugas are ruled by 14 Manus. First Manu was Swaayambhuva Manu.
Now it is the period of Vaivaswatha Manu. Out of 7 Kalpam starting from Parthiva Kalpam we are now in the fifth, i.e in Swetha Varaha Kalpam to be followed by Brahma Kalpam and Savithra Kalpam. So far 27 Chatur Yugas are over and we are in the 28th Chatur Yuga. -Aòa iv
Brahma’s life span is reported as 100 years. It is said that when Brahma goes to sleep- after completion of His day- The first three worlds out of the 7 upward worlds i.e Bhoo, Bhuva, Sswha would be dissolved by pralaya ( deluge). By this pralaya however, Maha:, Jana,Tapo and Sathya Lokas would not be affected.
As on date nearly 50% of the Life Span of the present Brahma is over. Our Bhoo Loka is in between 7 Paatala Lokas below and 6 Upper Lokas above. Out of 7 Oceans we are surrounded by Salt ocean. Out of 7 Dweepams in the earth we are in Jambu Dweepam and are following Bharata Varsha and are in the BharataKhanda. When we are doing Sankalpam, we generally quote the particular time and period starting from the beginning of the creation of this world by the Lord. That is to say we time and again dedicate ourselves to the Glory of the Lord by quoting the Kalachakra.
Aadhya---- Brahmanaha: Dwetheeya Paraadhe, Swetha Varaha Kalpe, Vaivaswatha Manvanthare, Ashtaa vimsathi Thame( i.e 28th Chatur Yuge)Kaliyuge, Pradhame Paade (First Quarter of Kaliyuga), Jambu Dweepe, Bharata Varshe,Bharata Khande,Meroho Dakshine Parswe ( South side of the Maha Meru) etc.
Apart from the above, we quote the particular name of the year ( out of the 60 cyclic years), and whether the samkalpam period is in Uttaraayana or in Dakshinayana. The name of the Rithu, Star, Paksha, Thithi, Yoga, and Karana etc etc. applicable to the moment of the Samkalpa time are also recited when we are doing a Samkalpa. That is to say the entire Kaala Chakra Periods as applicable to particular samkalpa time are being chanted from time to time, to praise the Glory of the Lord. Utimately we also accept in the Samkalpa of the fact that this world, the week, the days, the stars, the thithi etc etc. are all His manifestations only and there is nothing in this world without the Almighty, the omnipotent, Omnipresent, the Omniscient.
Note: Your valueable suggestions and value addition are most welcome
Please post your mail to the following email id. brahmanasamskara@yahoo.co.in
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
SOME INSIDE VIEW ABOUT OUR SASTRAS
SOME POINTS ABOUT HINDU DHARMASASTRAS
PARTICULARLY RELATING TO BRAHMINS.
I.SIX DUTIES OF A BRAHMIN:-
YACHANAM, YAACHANAM, ADYAYANAM, ADHYAPANAM, DHANAM, PRATHIGRAHAM.
(i.e) CONDUCTING YAGJNAS, GET FUNDS TO CONDUCT YAGJNAS, LEARNING, TEACHING, GIVING ALMS AND ACCEPTING GIFTS(OR) DAKSHINA..
II.WHO IS A BRAHMIN AND WHO IS SROTRIYAN:
JANMANA JAYATHE SOODHRA: SAMSKARATH DWIJA UCHYATHE
VIDHYA YATHI VIPRATWAM THRIBIR SROTRIYA UCHYATHE
i.e: BY BIRTH ALL ARE EQUAL IN STATUS. WHEN YOU FOLLOW THE ORDAINED SAMSKARAS YOU ARE CALLED DWIJA. WHEN YOU LEARN VEDA AND ACQUIRE KNOWLEDGE YOU ARE CALLED VIPRA.ONLY WHEN YOU ARE BORNE AS BRAHMIN AND LEARN VEDA AND ACT AS PER INSTRUCTIONS IN THE SRUTHI,SMIRITHI,ALONG WITH SWADHARMA ANUSHTANA ,YOU ARE CALLED A SROTRIYA.
SOME OTHERS SAY THAT ONLY A BRAHMIN WHO HAS MASTERED ATLEAST ONE VEDIC RECESSION WITH SIX ANGAS OF THE VEDAS, AND CARRY OUT LIVING WITH SWADHARMA ANUSHTANA OF HIS VARNA IS CALLED SROTRIYA.
III EIGHT ATHMAGUNAS REQUIRED FOR A BRAHMIN.
DAYA- SHANTHI- ANAASUYA- SOUCHAM-ANAAYASA-MANGALM-AKAARPANYAM-ASPRUHA
DAYA IS COMPASSION TOWARDS ALL OTHER LIVING BEINGS.
SHANTHI IS CALM MIND-PATIENCE
ANAASUYA IS FREE FROM JEALOUSY
SOUCHAM IS PURITY OF INTERNAL MIND AND EXTERNAL BODY
ANNAAYASA IS RELAXED MIND AND BODY
MANGALAM IS HAPPINESS OF MIND
AKARPANYAM IS NON MISERLINESS
ASPRUHA IS MIND WITHOUT DESIRE.
IV THERE ARE FOURTEEN ABODES OF KNOWLEDGE;
THEY ARE 4 VEDAS, 6 VEDANGAS AND 4 UPAVEDNGAS
(a)FOUR VEDAS ARE:
RIK-YAJUR-SAMA-ADHARVA
(b)SIX VEDANGAS ARE::
SIKSHA- VEDIC MANTRAS
VYAKARANAM-- GRAMMER
CHANDAS---- MAATRA- PATTERN-METHOD-METRE
NIRUKTHAM-- -KOSA- ORIGIN OF WORDS-ROOT
JYOTHISHAM--- TIME AND MATTERS CONNECTED WITH TIME
KALPA---- METHOD OF DOING POOJA-SACRIFICE ETC
©FOUR UPAVENDANGAS ARE.
MIMAMSA--NYAYA-PURANAS-DHARMA SASTRAS
MIMAMSA- LOGIC NYAYA---LAW
PURANAS- 18 PURANAS AND 18 UPA PURANAS
DHARMASASTRAAS ARE ARTHA SASTRA ( ADMINISTRATION-
AYURVEDA (MEDICINE) DHANUR VEDA (RELATING TO WEAPONS) GANDHARVA VEDA ( MUSIC)
Note: Your observations and suggestions, value addition are solicited
My email id is brahmanasamskara@yahoo.co.in
PARTICULARLY RELATING TO BRAHMINS.
I.SIX DUTIES OF A BRAHMIN:-
YACHANAM, YAACHANAM, ADYAYANAM, ADHYAPANAM, DHANAM, PRATHIGRAHAM.
(i.e) CONDUCTING YAGJNAS, GET FUNDS TO CONDUCT YAGJNAS, LEARNING, TEACHING, GIVING ALMS AND ACCEPTING GIFTS(OR) DAKSHINA..
II.WHO IS A BRAHMIN AND WHO IS SROTRIYAN:
JANMANA JAYATHE SOODHRA: SAMSKARATH DWIJA UCHYATHE
VIDHYA YATHI VIPRATWAM THRIBIR SROTRIYA UCHYATHE
i.e: BY BIRTH ALL ARE EQUAL IN STATUS. WHEN YOU FOLLOW THE ORDAINED SAMSKARAS YOU ARE CALLED DWIJA. WHEN YOU LEARN VEDA AND ACQUIRE KNOWLEDGE YOU ARE CALLED VIPRA.ONLY WHEN YOU ARE BORNE AS BRAHMIN AND LEARN VEDA AND ACT AS PER INSTRUCTIONS IN THE SRUTHI,SMIRITHI,ALONG WITH SWADHARMA ANUSHTANA ,YOU ARE CALLED A SROTRIYA.
SOME OTHERS SAY THAT ONLY A BRAHMIN WHO HAS MASTERED ATLEAST ONE VEDIC RECESSION WITH SIX ANGAS OF THE VEDAS, AND CARRY OUT LIVING WITH SWADHARMA ANUSHTANA OF HIS VARNA IS CALLED SROTRIYA.
III EIGHT ATHMAGUNAS REQUIRED FOR A BRAHMIN.
DAYA- SHANTHI- ANAASUYA- SOUCHAM-ANAAYASA-MANGALM-AKAARPANYAM-ASPRUHA
DAYA IS COMPASSION TOWARDS ALL OTHER LIVING BEINGS.
SHANTHI IS CALM MIND-PATIENCE
ANAASUYA IS FREE FROM JEALOUSY
SOUCHAM IS PURITY OF INTERNAL MIND AND EXTERNAL BODY
ANNAAYASA IS RELAXED MIND AND BODY
MANGALAM IS HAPPINESS OF MIND
AKARPANYAM IS NON MISERLINESS
ASPRUHA IS MIND WITHOUT DESIRE.
IV THERE ARE FOURTEEN ABODES OF KNOWLEDGE;
THEY ARE 4 VEDAS, 6 VEDANGAS AND 4 UPAVEDNGAS
(a)FOUR VEDAS ARE:
RIK-YAJUR-SAMA-ADHARVA
(b)SIX VEDANGAS ARE::
SIKSHA- VEDIC MANTRAS
VYAKARANAM-- GRAMMER
CHANDAS---- MAATRA- PATTERN-METHOD-METRE
NIRUKTHAM-- -KOSA- ORIGIN OF WORDS-ROOT
JYOTHISHAM--- TIME AND MATTERS CONNECTED WITH TIME
KALPA---- METHOD OF DOING POOJA-SACRIFICE ETC
©FOUR UPAVENDANGAS ARE.
MIMAMSA--NYAYA-PURANAS-DHARMA SASTRAS
MIMAMSA- LOGIC NYAYA---LAW
PURANAS- 18 PURANAS AND 18 UPA PURANAS
DHARMASASTRAAS ARE ARTHA SASTRA ( ADMINISTRATION-
AYURVEDA (MEDICINE) DHANUR VEDA (RELATING TO WEAPONS) GANDHARVA VEDA ( MUSIC)
Note: Your observations and suggestions, value addition are solicited
My email id is brahmanasamskara@yahoo.co.in
Monday, February 27, 2006
OUR 40 SAMSKARAS !
40 SAMSKARAMS PRESCRIBED FROM CONCEPTION TILL DEATH
=================================================
1. GARBHA DHANAM
2. PUMSAVANAM
3. SEEMANTHA- UNNAYANAM
4. JATA - KARMA
5. NAMA- KARANAM
6. ANNA PRASANAM
7. CHOULAM
8. UPA NAYANAM
9 TO 12 FOUR PRAJAPATHYA VEDA VRATAS PERFORMED IN GURUKULA
13. SAMAVARTHANA VRATHA ON RETURN FROM GURUKULA
PANCHA YAGNAS
14. BRAHMA YAGNA
15. DEVA YAGNA
16. PITUR YAGNA
17. MANUSHYA YAGNA- ADITHI YAGNA
18. BHOOTA YAGNA (VAISWADEVA YAGNA)
19. MARRIAGE
SEVEN PAKA YAGNAS
20. ASTAKA
21. STHAALI PAKA
22 PAARVANA
23. SRAAVANI
24. AAGRHAYANI
25. CAITRI
26 ASVAYUJI
SEVEN HAVIR YAGNAS (HOMA YAGNAS)
27. AGNI AADHANA-
28. AGNI HOTHRA
29. DARSA POURNA MASA
30 AAGRAYANA
31. CHATUR MASYA
32. NIROODA PASU BANDA
33 SAUTRAMANI
SEVEN SOMA YAGNAS
34. AGNISHTOMA
35. ATYAGNI SHTOMA
36 UKTYA
37. SODASI
38 VAJPAPEYEE
39 ATIRATHRA
40. APTORYAMA
NOTE: There are various kalpa sootras for different veda branch followers.
We have got SRAUTHA Sootras and GRUHYA Sootras
There are Srautha Karmas and Smartha Karmas- as ordained in smrithees
Ahimsa/Sathyam/Non stealing/ Soucham /Indriya Nigraham / are ordinary Dharma.
Sandhya Vandanam- Japam- Homam-Devatha Poojanam-Aadithyam-Vaiswadevam are Aagama Dharma
Generally Karmas are differentiated as under:
1.NITHYA-2. NAIMITHIKAM 3. KAMYAM- 4.PRADHI SHIDHAM ( NISHIDHAM)
By doing Nithya karma no special result would accrue. But by not doing the same papa accrues Naimithikam karma is to be performed in extra ordinary circumstances like eclipse time etc. Kamya karma is to be performed desiring to get wanted things. Pradhi shidham Karma is Nishidha karma i.e which should not be carried out .
Periodicity is prescribed for doing some of the samskarams.
For Example items No.21 to be performed every pradhama day,i.e once in 15 days.
Item No 22 to 26 and 29 to 33 are to be performed once in a year.
All Soma Yagnas i.e. 34 to 40 are to be performed once in a year or once in a life time. When one cannot carryout any of the Soma Yagnas- by providing financial help and by participating with others those who perform those Yagnas, one can complete those samskaras as ordained in scriptures.
PS: If any one can add value to the above by providing information about each Samskara in detail, please mail to me those information. I would be grateful for receiving information,suggestions and comments.
My e-mail Id is : brahmanasamskara@yahoo.com.in
Dated 27th Feb. 2006
=================================================
1. GARBHA DHANAM
2. PUMSAVANAM
3. SEEMANTHA- UNNAYANAM
4. JATA - KARMA
5. NAMA- KARANAM
6. ANNA PRASANAM
7. CHOULAM
8. UPA NAYANAM
9 TO 12 FOUR PRAJAPATHYA VEDA VRATAS PERFORMED IN GURUKULA
13. SAMAVARTHANA VRATHA ON RETURN FROM GURUKULA
PANCHA YAGNAS
14. BRAHMA YAGNA
15. DEVA YAGNA
16. PITUR YAGNA
17. MANUSHYA YAGNA- ADITHI YAGNA
18. BHOOTA YAGNA (VAISWADEVA YAGNA)
19. MARRIAGE
SEVEN PAKA YAGNAS
20. ASTAKA
21. STHAALI PAKA
22 PAARVANA
23. SRAAVANI
24. AAGRHAYANI
25. CAITRI
26 ASVAYUJI
SEVEN HAVIR YAGNAS (HOMA YAGNAS)
27. AGNI AADHANA-
28. AGNI HOTHRA
29. DARSA POURNA MASA
30 AAGRAYANA
31. CHATUR MASYA
32. NIROODA PASU BANDA
33 SAUTRAMANI
SEVEN SOMA YAGNAS
34. AGNISHTOMA
35. ATYAGNI SHTOMA
36 UKTYA
37. SODASI
38 VAJPAPEYEE
39 ATIRATHRA
40. APTORYAMA
NOTE: There are various kalpa sootras for different veda branch followers.
We have got SRAUTHA Sootras and GRUHYA Sootras
There are Srautha Karmas and Smartha Karmas- as ordained in smrithees
Ahimsa/Sathyam/Non stealing/ Soucham /Indriya Nigraham / are ordinary Dharma.
Sandhya Vandanam- Japam- Homam-Devatha Poojanam-Aadithyam-Vaiswadevam are Aagama Dharma
Generally Karmas are differentiated as under:
1.NITHYA-2. NAIMITHIKAM 3. KAMYAM- 4.PRADHI SHIDHAM ( NISHIDHAM)
By doing Nithya karma no special result would accrue. But by not doing the same papa accrues Naimithikam karma is to be performed in extra ordinary circumstances like eclipse time etc. Kamya karma is to be performed desiring to get wanted things. Pradhi shidham Karma is Nishidha karma i.e which should not be carried out .
Periodicity is prescribed for doing some of the samskarams.
For Example items No.21 to be performed every pradhama day,i.e once in 15 days.
Item No 22 to 26 and 29 to 33 are to be performed once in a year.
All Soma Yagnas i.e. 34 to 40 are to be performed once in a year or once in a life time. When one cannot carryout any of the Soma Yagnas- by providing financial help and by participating with others those who perform those Yagnas, one can complete those samskaras as ordained in scriptures.
PS: If any one can add value to the above by providing information about each Samskara in detail, please mail to me those information. I would be grateful for receiving information,suggestions and comments.
My e-mail Id is : brahmanasamskara@yahoo.com.in
Dated 27th Feb. 2006
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
GURU AND GURUPARAMPARA
GURU AND GURUPARAMPARA SOME INFORMATION
In earlier times parting of knowledge from one generation to another was hereditary- that is teaching was imparted from father to son and so on. In the first instant Lord Adipurusha imparted knowledge to Brahma. Then Brahma passed on the same to Narada/Vasistha / Prajapathies etc.( sons of Brahma)Thereafter the parampara knowledge was passed on to Sakthi- Parasara-Vyasa-Suka- and so on in the same order. From Suka Brahmam onwards-hereditary chain is reported to have been broken since Sri Suka remained as a brahmachari. Guru Sishya Parampara outside family circle is reported to have started from this period onwards.
Sri.Gouda Padar was guru of Sri Govidna Bagavat Padar, who was the guru to Sri. Adi Sankarar. Sri. Adi Sankaracharya had four disciples namely –Sriyuths: Padmapadar, Hasthamalakar, Throdakacharyar, and Sureswarar (Mandala Misrar- earlier Sishya of Kumarila Bhattar).
“Narayanam padmabhuvam vasishtam, Sakthim, cha thad puthra- Paaracharam cha.-- Vyasam Sukam, Goudapadam mahantham, Govinda Yogeendramadasya Sishyam.- Sri Sankaracharya madhasya Padmapadam cha Hasthamalakam cha Sishyam/. Tham Todakam Varthikara anyan Asmat guroon santatham Anathosmi..”
Three great rare opportunities or boons obtained by the grace of God are to get a Maanusha Janma, the desire to know the truth, and finally in getting a great man as Guru.
Durlabham thrayamedad devanughraha Hethukam.
Manushyathwam, Mumukshatwam, Mahapurusha Samasrayaha:
A True Guru has character of divinity. Para Brahman has no attribute or form. Then how to know him and to reach him to get His grace. Only through a Guru one can get to know the Lord – through the knowledge imparted by him. In Guru “GU” represents Gunas – attributed and “RU” represents Rupa or form/rupa Thus “GURU” is the Paramathman with attribute and form. Guru thus lead the seeker of knowledge by removing (GU) means the darkness- anthakara- the ajnana - (“RU” –means- Removing) i.e by removing ajnana/darkness by imparting knowledge of light/the vision.
“Gu"-karachandhakarasthu Ru-karasthannirodhakrith
Andhakarasya Ravi nasinyodh gururithya abhideeyadhe
Ajnana Thimirandhasya Jnananchana Salakaya
Chashuhu militham ena thasmaii sri Gurave namaha”
One who delivers lectures or writes books without him self crossing the ocean of Samsara, is nothing more than a mere professor or doctorate holder. A person who conducts religious rites as per “agama sastras” is only a Purohit, and who makes a living from the financial assistance received from the kartha. Only that “ Bhrahmajnani,who in addition to himself crossing the ocean of “ Samsara” help others also to cross that ocean, can be called a Guru. An Acharya is one who in addition to explaining the meaning of the “Sastras” (scriptures) leads others into that discipline, and himself, shows practical adherence to discipline by his own conduct.
In Viveka Chudamani Acharya Sankara (Period: 509- 477 BC) ( some say the period as AD 788 to 820) who was exponent of Advaita Vedanta and Shanmatha Sthapaka describes “Acharya “ as follows: -
“Theerna Swayam Bheema Bhavarnavam Jnanan
Ahethuna Nanyapi tharayanthaha:
Santhom Mahnthom nivasanthi santhom
Vasanthova Lokahitham Karanthaha:”
The Shanmatham propagated by Sri. Adi Sankara is Sauryam, Ganapathyam,Kaumaram, Saivam, Vishnavam and Saktham. While bringing in clear awareness about our Hindu Sanatana Dharma, he also codified the system of conducting worship of various deities. According to Shanmatham System, worship of Lord Muruga was added to the Siva Panchayata Pooja. Sri Adi Sankara established 4 Mutts in four corners of India.The first madathipathies of the four Mutts i.e Sringeri ( Sri Mutt) Puri (Jagannath mutt),Dwaraka, and Badarinath(Joshi) were Sri. Sureswara Charya, Sri Padmapada, Sri.Hasthamalaka, and Sri Totakacharya respectively.It is reported that each of the above Mutts was also entrusted with separate branch of Vedas for specialization. The historic sacred pontifical throne of the Sringeri Mutt is known as VYAKHYANA SIMHASANA or seat of learning. It is reported that this seat was given to the great Sankara by Saraswathi, the Godess of learning herself.
In earlier times parting of knowledge from one generation to another was hereditary- that is teaching was imparted from father to son and so on. In the first instant Lord Adipurusha imparted knowledge to Brahma. Then Brahma passed on the same to Narada/Vasistha / Prajapathies etc.( sons of Brahma)Thereafter the parampara knowledge was passed on to Sakthi- Parasara-Vyasa-Suka- and so on in the same order. From Suka Brahmam onwards-hereditary chain is reported to have been broken since Sri Suka remained as a brahmachari. Guru Sishya Parampara outside family circle is reported to have started from this period onwards.
Sri.Gouda Padar was guru of Sri Govidna Bagavat Padar, who was the guru to Sri. Adi Sankarar. Sri. Adi Sankaracharya had four disciples namely –Sriyuths: Padmapadar, Hasthamalakar, Throdakacharyar, and Sureswarar (Mandala Misrar- earlier Sishya of Kumarila Bhattar).
“Narayanam padmabhuvam vasishtam, Sakthim, cha thad puthra- Paaracharam cha.-- Vyasam Sukam, Goudapadam mahantham, Govinda Yogeendramadasya Sishyam.- Sri Sankaracharya madhasya Padmapadam cha Hasthamalakam cha Sishyam/. Tham Todakam Varthikara anyan Asmat guroon santatham Anathosmi..”
Three great rare opportunities or boons obtained by the grace of God are to get a Maanusha Janma, the desire to know the truth, and finally in getting a great man as Guru.
Durlabham thrayamedad devanughraha Hethukam.
Manushyathwam, Mumukshatwam, Mahapurusha Samasrayaha:
A True Guru has character of divinity. Para Brahman has no attribute or form. Then how to know him and to reach him to get His grace. Only through a Guru one can get to know the Lord – through the knowledge imparted by him. In Guru “GU” represents Gunas – attributed and “RU” represents Rupa or form/rupa Thus “GURU” is the Paramathman with attribute and form. Guru thus lead the seeker of knowledge by removing (GU) means the darkness- anthakara- the ajnana - (“RU” –means- Removing) i.e by removing ajnana/darkness by imparting knowledge of light/the vision.
“Gu"-karachandhakarasthu Ru-karasthannirodhakrith
Andhakarasya Ravi nasinyodh gururithya abhideeyadhe
Ajnana Thimirandhasya Jnananchana Salakaya
Chashuhu militham ena thasmaii sri Gurave namaha”
One who delivers lectures or writes books without him self crossing the ocean of Samsara, is nothing more than a mere professor or doctorate holder. A person who conducts religious rites as per “agama sastras” is only a Purohit, and who makes a living from the financial assistance received from the kartha. Only that “ Bhrahmajnani,who in addition to himself crossing the ocean of “ Samsara” help others also to cross that ocean, can be called a Guru. An Acharya is one who in addition to explaining the meaning of the “Sastras” (scriptures) leads others into that discipline, and himself, shows practical adherence to discipline by his own conduct.
In Viveka Chudamani Acharya Sankara (Period: 509- 477 BC) ( some say the period as AD 788 to 820) who was exponent of Advaita Vedanta and Shanmatha Sthapaka describes “Acharya “ as follows: -
“Theerna Swayam Bheema Bhavarnavam Jnanan
Ahethuna Nanyapi tharayanthaha:
Santhom Mahnthom nivasanthi santhom
Vasanthova Lokahitham Karanthaha:”
The Shanmatham propagated by Sri. Adi Sankara is Sauryam, Ganapathyam,Kaumaram, Saivam, Vishnavam and Saktham. While bringing in clear awareness about our Hindu Sanatana Dharma, he also codified the system of conducting worship of various deities. According to Shanmatham System, worship of Lord Muruga was added to the Siva Panchayata Pooja. Sri Adi Sankara established 4 Mutts in four corners of India.The first madathipathies of the four Mutts i.e Sringeri ( Sri Mutt) Puri (Jagannath mutt),Dwaraka, and Badarinath(Joshi) were Sri. Sureswara Charya, Sri Padmapada, Sri.Hasthamalaka, and Sri Totakacharya respectively.It is reported that each of the above Mutts was also entrusted with separate branch of Vedas for specialization. The historic sacred pontifical throne of the Sringeri Mutt is known as VYAKHYANA SIMHASANA or seat of learning. It is reported that this seat was given to the great Sankara by Saraswathi, the Godess of learning herself.
Dasanami Sanyasins i.e Saraswathi, Bharathi, Puri,Thirtha,Asrama, Giri, Prvata and Sagar,Vana and Aranya are organized by Sri.Sankara.
Sri.Sankara’s teachings can be summed up in the following words: Brahma Satyam, Jagat Mithya, Jeevo Brahmaiva na Aparah:
The other main Hindu philosophies came after Sri. Adi Sankara are Vishishta Advaitha and Dwaitha. 12 Alwars ( period AD – 600-900) Sri.Nathamuni ( Ad 824-924) Sri, Yamuna ( AD 918- 1028) Sri. Ramanujam (AD- 1017- 1137) were pioneers of Vishishta Advaitha System. Sri.Jayathirtha of 13th Century, Sri.Vysa Thirtha (AD_1447-1539) Sri. Ragavendra ( AD- 1598-1671) stabilised Dwaitha System after establishment of this system by Sri. Madhva Charya-( Anantha Thirtha- AD- 1238-1317).
Apart from the above great saints/sanyasins many other Saiva /Vaishnava/ Madhwa saints/sanyasins had also contributed imparting of knowledge through Guru parampara.Lord Dakshinamurthi is considered as the Jagath Guru by Advaitha followers.
Just as we need a doctor to cure our illness a GURU is necessary to know what the scriptures have ordained for us and to teach us the particular course of action suited to our qualification. If we wish for a guru in all earnestness, he will be before us in no time. But if we require his presence only to test his competence of a guru he will be farther off than before.
So surrender to GURU entirely. He will take us by the hand and lead us to the goal. He is not blinded by the enveloping darkness of ignorance and is sure to guide us properly. Guru is Brahma Guru is Vishnu , Guru is Maheswara, and He is the prathyaksha parabrahman himself with GU-na and RU-pa ( Guru= Guna Rupa of God)
“Guru: Brahma Guru: Vishnu: Gururdhevo Maheswara:
Guru: Sakshaat param Brahma Tasmaii Sree Gurave Nama:
Gurave Sarva Lokanam Bhishaje Bhavaroginam
Nidhaye Sarva Vidhyanam Sree Dakshinamoothaye Nama:”
Sunday, January 29, 2006
All about food (Annam) and importance of Anna Dhana.
Whatever beings exist on earth, they are all born out of food. By food alone they remain alive and to that they return to in the end.
Food is called ' annam ' because the created beings both consume it, and they are consumed by it too. It is the first among all the medicament of life.
While many in these columns have criticised that feeding the guests or devotees is the prime agenda in any of our social or religious functions, in the Manu Smrithi it is stated that it is the duty of a Gruhastha to offer food to his guest/s . As prayaschitha for the daily accrueing papas it is ordained to perform five Yagnas daily. They are namely Brahma Yagnam,Deva Yagnam,Pithur Yagnam,Manushya Yagnam and Bootha Yagnam.
1.Rishis will be pleased in hearing the Saswara Vedic Chanting
2.Devas will be pleased with the Homa performed
3.Pithrus will be pleased with the Shraadha performed
4.Adhithi (guests) will be pleased by the food offered
5.The offering of Baliharanam will please Bhoothas
Satisfying the adhithi or guest being the prime duty of the gruhastha and offering of Pancha Bhakshya should be to the utmost satisfaction of the guest.
The Pancha Bhakshyas are:
1.Bhakshya : (sweets like ladoo, Boli, etc.)
2.Bhojya: (rice, saambar etc.)
3.Lehyam: ( Pachadi, kojju etc)
4.Chohyam: (side items like Chitraannam, fruit salad, (desert) etc)
5.Paneeyam: (rasam, paayasam).
Our Smrithi states that the money can be spent in three ways. If such a person does not spend money on Daanam / annadaanam or bhogam (using it for his own happiness), the money gets destroyed. (naasham).
It reiterates that if you do not want to donate, or if you do not want to use it for your own happiness (righteous), and then the only alternative is the third i.e. money gets destroyed.
" Annadaanam Param Dhanam"-There is no greater dhanam than annadhaanam because of the contentment of the gruhastha in serving the food and the adhithi in consuming what has been served. In other material dhanam such complete contentment is not there.
Mathru Devo Bhava, Pithru Devo Bhava, Acharya Devo Bhava and Adhithi Devo Bhava is the saying in Taitreya Upanishad .
Parents are satisfied by the seva or service of their sons and daughters, Acharya by the Susroosha of his disciple and adhithi by the food served by the gruhastha. By satisfying as above the gruhastha is blessed with Saaswatha Brahmalokam.
While the duty of the Gruhastha is to satisfy the adhithi , the adhithi has also a duty in blessing the gruhastha." Annadaatha Sukhi Bhava" - even if this is not said by the adhithi in words, it is implied.The Sukham prayed for is not the loukeeka Sukham but paramaarthika Sukham- - eternal bliss.
We have been advised by our ancestors that whenever we donate,we should donate to the deserving." Paathiram arindu Pichhai Podu " is the saying in Tamil.. In olden days people had enough -Subhiksha. Even others were well looked after by the King. Brahmins were living praying for the Kshema / welfare of the Society .And serving them with food was the duty of gruhastha as aforesaid.
At a later stage, the gruhasthas realised that some of them they are serving with food were swaarthees (selfish people) and switched over to feeding the poor.And hence feeding the poor became predominant. Being blessed for feeding the poor by those being fed is a prayer for the eternal bliss of the gruhastha. This is aptly termed as "Narayana Seva"..
If a person cannot undertake the task individually,he can join a group where such an activity is conducted.
Before eating food one has to pray to God “ Namasthe Annam Asmakam Nityam
Asthu ethath” as thanks giving to Him for providing food to us. Parishechana mantras ordained for us is for this purpose..Similarly after completion of eating- before getting up we do Uttara- Aposanam. In that we have to leave half of the water taken in the hand for the benefit of the deserving jeevas in the other worlds who are earnestly awaiting for the water from the this world. “ Rourave Apunya Nilaye Padmarbudha Nivasinaam / Arthinaam Udakam Dattam Akshyyam Upathishtatu”
Food is called ' annam ' because the created beings both consume it, and they are consumed by it too. It is the first among all the medicament of life.
While many in these columns have criticised that feeding the guests or devotees is the prime agenda in any of our social or religious functions, in the Manu Smrithi it is stated that it is the duty of a Gruhastha to offer food to his guest/s . As prayaschitha for the daily accrueing papas it is ordained to perform five Yagnas daily. They are namely Brahma Yagnam,Deva Yagnam,Pithur Yagnam,Manushya Yagnam and Bootha Yagnam.
1.Rishis will be pleased in hearing the Saswara Vedic Chanting
2.Devas will be pleased with the Homa performed
3.Pithrus will be pleased with the Shraadha performed
4.Adhithi (guests) will be pleased by the food offered
5.The offering of Baliharanam will please Bhoothas
Satisfying the adhithi or guest being the prime duty of the gruhastha and offering of Pancha Bhakshya should be to the utmost satisfaction of the guest.
The Pancha Bhakshyas are:
1.Bhakshya : (sweets like ladoo, Boli, etc.)
2.Bhojya: (rice, saambar etc.)
3.Lehyam: ( Pachadi, kojju etc)
4.Chohyam: (side items like Chitraannam, fruit salad, (desert) etc)
5.Paneeyam: (rasam, paayasam).
Our Smrithi states that the money can be spent in three ways. If such a person does not spend money on Daanam / annadaanam or bhogam (using it for his own happiness), the money gets destroyed. (naasham).
It reiterates that if you do not want to donate, or if you do not want to use it for your own happiness (righteous), and then the only alternative is the third i.e. money gets destroyed.
" Annadaanam Param Dhanam"-There is no greater dhanam than annadhaanam because of the contentment of the gruhastha in serving the food and the adhithi in consuming what has been served. In other material dhanam such complete contentment is not there.
Mathru Devo Bhava, Pithru Devo Bhava, Acharya Devo Bhava and Adhithi Devo Bhava is the saying in Taitreya Upanishad .
Parents are satisfied by the seva or service of their sons and daughters, Acharya by the Susroosha of his disciple and adhithi by the food served by the gruhastha. By satisfying as above the gruhastha is blessed with Saaswatha Brahmalokam.
While the duty of the Gruhastha is to satisfy the adhithi , the adhithi has also a duty in blessing the gruhastha." Annadaatha Sukhi Bhava" - even if this is not said by the adhithi in words, it is implied.The Sukham prayed for is not the loukeeka Sukham but paramaarthika Sukham- - eternal bliss.
We have been advised by our ancestors that whenever we donate,we should donate to the deserving." Paathiram arindu Pichhai Podu " is the saying in Tamil.. In olden days people had enough -Subhiksha. Even others were well looked after by the King. Brahmins were living praying for the Kshema / welfare of the Society .And serving them with food was the duty of gruhastha as aforesaid.
At a later stage, the gruhasthas realised that some of them they are serving with food were swaarthees (selfish people) and switched over to feeding the poor.And hence feeding the poor became predominant. Being blessed for feeding the poor by those being fed is a prayer for the eternal bliss of the gruhastha. This is aptly termed as "Narayana Seva"..
If a person cannot undertake the task individually,he can join a group where such an activity is conducted.
Before eating food one has to pray to God “ Namasthe Annam Asmakam Nityam
Asthu ethath” as thanks giving to Him for providing food to us. Parishechana mantras ordained for us is for this purpose..Similarly after completion of eating- before getting up we do Uttara- Aposanam. In that we have to leave half of the water taken in the hand for the benefit of the deserving jeevas in the other worlds who are earnestly awaiting for the water from the this world. “ Rourave Apunya Nilaye Padmarbudha Nivasinaam / Arthinaam Udakam Dattam Akshyyam Upathishtatu”
Subham bhavathu.
The Lord of Seven Hills: Yedukondala Swamy of Tirupathi
“VENKATADRI SAMAM STHANAM BHRHMANDE NASTI KINCHANA
VENKATESA SAMAM DEVO NA BHOOTHO NA BHVISHYATHI”
Venkatadri is situated around 1104 meters above Sea Level and covers an area of about 250 Sq. Km. As per Bhavishyotttara Purana the Vengatam Hill is the sporting hill of Lord Vishnu and was brought from Vaikunta to earth by Garuda. The related story goes like this. Once while Lord Vishnu was resting for a while in Vaikuntam ,Vayu, the God of Wind, wanted to have a darshan of the Lord. Sesha being the dwarapalaka had objected to the entry of Vayu into Vaikuntam. Angered by this Vayu has challenged the strength of Sesha. Intervening in the argument, the Lord has suggested a contest between the two warring kings. The serpent king Sesha has to coil around the peak of Ananda of Meru Parvatha and Vayu has to dislodge him from the peak. Accordingly after Sesha had coiled around the peak and Vayu with all his might attempted to dislodge him. When these furious winds were blowing Sesha raised one of his hoods and at that opportune moment, Vayu blew off the peak along with Sesha. Meru Parvatha the father of Ananda Sihara had requested Vayu not to harm his son. Whereupon Vayu had carefully, placed the Ananda Sikhara near the present place called Tirupathi. Thereafter the Vengadam on the earth got the name “ Seshachalam”. Sesha means Serpent, achalam means the one is not moving – hill. The seven hoods of the Serpent King is said to represent the seven hills in Tirupathi. This hill also has many other names like Srinivasa Giri, Narayana Giri, Anandadri, Srisailam, Kreedadri, Chintamani, Teerthadri, Pushkaradri, Kanakadri, Vaikuntadri, Anjanaadri, Varahagiri, etc.
Venkatadri was called Vrushachalam in Krita yugam. Anjandri in Treta Yugam (The place where-mother of Hanuman did tapas) Seshachalam in Dwapara yuga and now in the present Kali Yugam it is referred to as Venkatachalam. The Gopura of the temple is called Ananda Sikhara , the son of Meru Parvatha.
It is reported that the temple deity is Swayambu. This one is Ekamurthy Aalayam of Lord Venkateswara. The image of Lord in Standing Posture is around 10 feet tall including the Kereeta height of about 20 inches. The Lord’s image is blueish black in colour and thus this vigraham combines the Hari Hara aspect of Paranthama. He is called Divya Mangala Murthy, with Sama Dhrishti Posture. Lord has got Lockes of hair. (Jatajuta) ( matted hair).It is reported that this stone statue does not have either Sanga or Chakra as would normally find.
Lord has got Bhushana Ornaments such as Chakram / Sankam in two upper hands. In one of the lower hands sign of abhaya Hastha and in the other lower hand is pointed towards His feet. This indicates that one who surrenders at His feet would be protected. The Moola Virat Roopam of the lord has got Yagnopavitham, Kanthabharanam, Nagabharanam and Kati bandham.
Apart from the above. Lakshmi Haram containing 108 gold dollars, Makara Kanthi, Saligrama Haram mounted in gold and engraved with the Sahasranama the thousand name of the Lord Vishnu, Yellow Silk Cloth etc are also His regulars Ornaments. Kasturi Tilakam in the middle where refined camphor placed as namam, which screens his eyes. On an average 150 Kgs of Gold ornaments are used for Lord’s Alankaram.
THE FINEST AND EASIEST MEANS TO SECURED LIBERATION FROM REBIRTHS IS TO UNDERSTAND HIM AND SURRENDER TO HIM.
Apart from the Moolavar there are other deities inside the temple are: 1. Utsava Srinivasa. 2. Ugra Srinivasa 3. Koluva Srinivasa 4 Bhoga Srinivasa, Navaneetha Nrithya Krishna, images of Lord Rama with his consorts, Hanuman and Lakshmana including Sugreeva and Chakrathu alwar. The temple has got an annual income over 500 crores per year and can be stated as the richest Hindu temple in the world.( as reported by TTD)
Bhoga Srinivasa deity would be put to silver cradle after daily worship. Koluva Srinivasa would preside over the daily darbar in connection with Panchanga padanam and daily accounts. Ugra Srinivasa would come out of the temple only in three days in year and that too before sunrise.
Brahma Utsavam celebrated at Tirupathi is in continuation of the Utsavam conducted by Lord Brahma Himself for Srinivasa. The Annual Brahma Utsavam would be celebrated in the month of Purattasi for 10 days in such a way that the Theertha Vari or Aaratu of the Lord on the 10th day should be on a Thiruvonam day. The Utsavams and Pooja etc are celebrated accordingly to Vaikanasa Sampradaya. The daily temple rituals starts around 3.00 a.m and would end around midnight daily.
One should first visit Tiruchanur where Lord ‘s consort Godess Padmavathi stays.After that one should worship Varahamurthy on the northern side of the Pushkarani Theertham. After visiting the main deity- Balaji one should see the Pottu i.e. where prasadams for the Lord are made. Here Lord’s foster mother “ Vakulamalikai” is worshipped. Thus this temple with origin dated back to thousands of years, is definitely a Bhoologa Vaikuntam only.
Email to: brahmanasamskara@yahoo.co.in
VENKATESA SAMAM DEVO NA BHOOTHO NA BHVISHYATHI”
Venkatadri is situated around 1104 meters above Sea Level and covers an area of about 250 Sq. Km. As per Bhavishyotttara Purana the Vengatam Hill is the sporting hill of Lord Vishnu and was brought from Vaikunta to earth by Garuda. The related story goes like this. Once while Lord Vishnu was resting for a while in Vaikuntam ,Vayu, the God of Wind, wanted to have a darshan of the Lord. Sesha being the dwarapalaka had objected to the entry of Vayu into Vaikuntam. Angered by this Vayu has challenged the strength of Sesha. Intervening in the argument, the Lord has suggested a contest between the two warring kings. The serpent king Sesha has to coil around the peak of Ananda of Meru Parvatha and Vayu has to dislodge him from the peak. Accordingly after Sesha had coiled around the peak and Vayu with all his might attempted to dislodge him. When these furious winds were blowing Sesha raised one of his hoods and at that opportune moment, Vayu blew off the peak along with Sesha. Meru Parvatha the father of Ananda Sihara had requested Vayu not to harm his son. Whereupon Vayu had carefully, placed the Ananda Sikhara near the present place called Tirupathi. Thereafter the Vengadam on the earth got the name “ Seshachalam”. Sesha means Serpent, achalam means the one is not moving – hill. The seven hoods of the Serpent King is said to represent the seven hills in Tirupathi. This hill also has many other names like Srinivasa Giri, Narayana Giri, Anandadri, Srisailam, Kreedadri, Chintamani, Teerthadri, Pushkaradri, Kanakadri, Vaikuntadri, Anjanaadri, Varahagiri, etc.
Venkatadri was called Vrushachalam in Krita yugam. Anjandri in Treta Yugam (The place where-mother of Hanuman did tapas) Seshachalam in Dwapara yuga and now in the present Kali Yugam it is referred to as Venkatachalam. The Gopura of the temple is called Ananda Sikhara , the son of Meru Parvatha.
It is reported that the temple deity is Swayambu. This one is Ekamurthy Aalayam of Lord Venkateswara. The image of Lord in Standing Posture is around 10 feet tall including the Kereeta height of about 20 inches. The Lord’s image is blueish black in colour and thus this vigraham combines the Hari Hara aspect of Paranthama. He is called Divya Mangala Murthy, with Sama Dhrishti Posture. Lord has got Lockes of hair. (Jatajuta) ( matted hair).It is reported that this stone statue does not have either Sanga or Chakra as would normally find.
Lord has got Bhushana Ornaments such as Chakram / Sankam in two upper hands. In one of the lower hands sign of abhaya Hastha and in the other lower hand is pointed towards His feet. This indicates that one who surrenders at His feet would be protected. The Moola Virat Roopam of the lord has got Yagnopavitham, Kanthabharanam, Nagabharanam and Kati bandham.
Apart from the above. Lakshmi Haram containing 108 gold dollars, Makara Kanthi, Saligrama Haram mounted in gold and engraved with the Sahasranama the thousand name of the Lord Vishnu, Yellow Silk Cloth etc are also His regulars Ornaments. Kasturi Tilakam in the middle where refined camphor placed as namam, which screens his eyes. On an average 150 Kgs of Gold ornaments are used for Lord’s Alankaram.
THE FINEST AND EASIEST MEANS TO SECURED LIBERATION FROM REBIRTHS IS TO UNDERSTAND HIM AND SURRENDER TO HIM.
Apart from the Moolavar there are other deities inside the temple are: 1. Utsava Srinivasa. 2. Ugra Srinivasa 3. Koluva Srinivasa 4 Bhoga Srinivasa, Navaneetha Nrithya Krishna, images of Lord Rama with his consorts, Hanuman and Lakshmana including Sugreeva and Chakrathu alwar. The temple has got an annual income over 500 crores per year and can be stated as the richest Hindu temple in the world.( as reported by TTD)
Bhoga Srinivasa deity would be put to silver cradle after daily worship. Koluva Srinivasa would preside over the daily darbar in connection with Panchanga padanam and daily accounts. Ugra Srinivasa would come out of the temple only in three days in year and that too before sunrise.
Brahma Utsavam celebrated at Tirupathi is in continuation of the Utsavam conducted by Lord Brahma Himself for Srinivasa. The Annual Brahma Utsavam would be celebrated in the month of Purattasi for 10 days in such a way that the Theertha Vari or Aaratu of the Lord on the 10th day should be on a Thiruvonam day. The Utsavams and Pooja etc are celebrated accordingly to Vaikanasa Sampradaya. The daily temple rituals starts around 3.00 a.m and would end around midnight daily.
One should first visit Tiruchanur where Lord ‘s consort Godess Padmavathi stays.After that one should worship Varahamurthy on the northern side of the Pushkarani Theertham. After visiting the main deity- Balaji one should see the Pottu i.e. where prasadams for the Lord are made. Here Lord’s foster mother “ Vakulamalikai” is worshipped. Thus this temple with origin dated back to thousands of years, is definitely a Bhoologa Vaikuntam only.
Email to: brahmanasamskara@yahoo.co.in
