There is something deeply suggestive in the very word Navaratri. We commonly understand it as “nine nights” — nava meaning nine and ratri meaning night. Yet, almost playfully, the sound nava also evokes newness — nava, the new, the fresh, the renewed. This coincidence itself invites reflection. Among the several Navaratri observances in the Indian … Continue reading A Time for Renewal
Tag: Ancient Wisdom
Spiritual Shades of the Rainy Season
In popular culture rain has been associated with romance. Inspired by the rainy season, classical poets like Kalidasa and many other poets have composed verses highlighting either the sensual elements or the feelings of longing borne out of separation. Many popular folk songs and film songs of our times are no different. But there can … Continue reading Spiritual Shades of the Rainy Season
Sitting Near The Guru
In our Indian tradition, great importance has been attached to being in the presence of the Guru as much as possible and getting knowledge directly from him. While this is applicable to all forms of knowledge, this has crucial significance in the case of spiritual knowledge. The crux of vedic wisdom are compiled in books … Continue reading Sitting Near The Guru
The Meaning and Purpose of Life
Life has no inherent meaning or purpose. It is you who brings meaning and purpose to life – so would say the western philosopher. But is it? The wonder and dilemma associated with meaning and purpose of life has been as old as civilization itself. Our ancient Rishis too have meditated upon it. They have … Continue reading The Meaning and Purpose of Life
Let us save the native plants
Oplus_131104 This news report should come as no surprise. Till now the extinction of animals and birds have been the subject of much public discourse. It is not that plants have not been getting extinct. What could be alarming is that there could be plants that have become extinct without coming to our notice for … Continue reading Let us save the native plants
Now out in Paperback
The Beauty of Sanskrit Language and Texts is now available on paperback on select countries. Of course it is available on Amazon Kindle for all the regions. It is one of those books which is very close to my heart. Would be very happy if you could buy the book and leave a review on … Continue reading Now out in Paperback
Freedom from Anger
If you never become angry congratulations. You are already enlightened in the sense that you have risen beyond all the psychological bonds. You have developed the highest degree of compassion. If you are not not enlightened, brace for some unsavory remarks. It is either the enlightened or the stupid who never become angry. If Buddha … Continue reading Freedom from Anger
Lord Brahma’s Advice to His Creation
In vedic astrology human births are classified as Deva Gana, Manushya Gana and Rakshasa Gana. It does not mean that those who are born under Rakshasa gana are demonic in nature. Among other implications, such classifications are usually taken into account while matching horoscopes of prospective brides and grooms. Otherwise also we have lots of … Continue reading Lord Brahma’s Advice to His Creation
Deva Snana Poornima – the ritual and its significance
Deva Snana Poornima is an important ritual in the build up to the Annual Car festival of Lord Jagannath. For the un-initiate, on this day the idols of Sudarshana, Ma Subhadra, Lord Balabhadra and Lord Jagannatha are taken out to the 'Altar of Bathing' inside the temple premises. An elaborate bath is given which can … Continue reading Deva Snana Poornima – the ritual and its significance
Zero to Infinity
My purpose in this series was to give a taste of every type of Sanskrit Literature. I did not write any post for well known texts like the Vedas, Mahabharata or Ramayana. Of course I have mentioned these and highlighted some of their aspects from time to time. This being the last post in the … Continue reading Zero to Infinity
