Yānasandhi Parva

An Introduction to “Jugglery of the Universe” (7/12/2018) - From Human Bondage to Ultimate Liberation … The mystery of creation, purpose of existence and existence itself is a journey of Self-realization. There have been many paths propagated to know, understand and experience the Truth. This book is a question and answer session between the authors to understand the “Jugglery of the Universe“. How the scientists have... Continue Reading →
Genesis: Theory of the Origins of the Universe (7/12/2018) - CHAPTER – 2 What is meant by universe? The universe is a five-fold structure created by the Supreme Creator’s will – the Supreme Godhood in action and created in a very short period of time ostensibly through a Big Bang but structured on firm foundations of science. Although literally universe means the conglomeration of... Continue Reading →
Time (7/12/2018) - CHAPTER – 3 What is meant by Time? Literally “Time” is indicative of limitless continuation of progress of existence and events taking place in past-present-and-future of existence with all three regarded as a whole. It is in effect the measurement or record of happenings during certain seconds, minutes, hours, years and so on. It... Continue Reading →
Division of Time into Yugas (7/14/2018) - CHAPTER – 4 How are the Yugas classified? What is the meaning of each of the names of the Yugas? Each day of the Creator is called Kalpa. Each Kalpa has 14 Manvantaras and each Manvantara has more than 71 Mahayugas. Each Mahayuga has 4 Yugas. Krita Yuga: “Krita-Kruthyā-nām iti Krita Yugam” meaning that... Continue Reading →
Knowledge (7/16/2018) - CHAPTER – 5 What exactly is the meaning of knowledge? What is its primary purpose? Whatever enlarges the frontiers of our mental, intellectual and spiritual horizons and whatever broadens our vision and perspective is indeed the subject, the merits and the description of “Knowledge”. The purpose of knowledge is primarily one that allows fuller... Continue Reading →
Communication with God (7/18/2018) - CHAPTER – 6 What is the nature of communication between Guru and Shishya ( with some examples)? For a devoted disciple, the Sadguru will do anything to bring him up to His own high spiritual level. The disciple on the other hand looks upon his Guru as an embodiment of everything- all knowledge... Continue Reading →
Radiation (7/19/2018) - CHAPTER – 7 How do cosmic rays originate? Ray is a line of light or other radiation coming from a point. Radiation is a spurt of energy as electromagnetic rays or subatomic particles. Cosmos means the universe seen as a well-ordered whole. The most unfortunate thing about Western science or scientists is that even... Continue Reading →
Tranquility (7/20/2018) - Chapter – 8 Define tranquility and what are the ingredients of tranquility? Tranquility literally means freedom from disturbance. It means calmness. The following are the ingredients of T-R-A-N-Q-U-I-L-I-T-Y :- Touchstone of immobility Reticence in disposition Ambrosial feeling Nagging silence Quietness in approach Unassailability with ultimate reality in mind Impervious to criticism Laudable action or reaction... Continue Reading →
Health and longevity (7/23/2018) - Chapter – 9 What should the priorities be in maintaining health and longevity? What is the ratio behind the priorities? The true end and purpose of life is to achieve salvation. Very few individuals are given the benefit of such a difficult task like salvation as an overwhelming majority of human folks do not... Continue Reading →
Thapas (7/23/2018) - CHAPTER – 10 Human life is supposed to be short; in the earlier Yuga especially the Krita Yuga, people did thapas for hundred to thousands of years. How can one in Kali Yuga make up or even excel the quantum of thapas reputed to have taken place in earlier Yugas? According to the Rishis,... Continue Reading →
Brahman (7/23/2018) - Chapter -11 The Brahman is something not visible to the naked eye; On the other hand this world containing the five elements, the movables and immovables, all living beings including the human species, is vividly visible to the eye; Inspite of all these, Brahman is said to be real and the visible and the... Continue Reading →
Aksharam Paramam Brahma – Chapter – 2 (7/28/2018) - Arunāmbara – Deva Sambhāṣaṇa is a discourse and discussion about Self-Enquiry and Self-Surrender, the four types of mukti, Aksara Vijnāna, the truth about the Absolute and other subjects between Guru and shishya. Like all the Puranas, Arunāmbara – Deva Sambhāṣaṇa has its origin in the forest namely Swethāranya meaning White Forest where Guru finds shishya in contemplation about... Continue Reading →
AUM – Chapter – 3 (7/30/2018) - Guru says, “Child, AUM is said to be the Supreme sound (Nada or Sabda Brahman). What is this AUM? AUM is said to be Akara, Ukara and Makara. What is its origin? Has it self-manifested? Aksharam manifests the self-luminous aksharas that have inherent light, sound and matter. This self-luminosity manifested as aksharas from Aksharam is... Continue Reading →
Sadhana – Chapter – 4 (8/2/2018) - Shishya asks, “O Revered One, there are many ways and means to ponder over the Supreme Self and each is considered to be as extraordinary as the next. What should one do?” Guru replies, “Son, each created being who is the self-luminous akshara with the inherent Aksharam will follow the path or way as per... Continue Reading →
Path to realize the Self – Chapter – 5 (8/3/2018) - Shishya bowing down says, “O Great One! Your words are so beautiful and yet so difficult for me to comprehend. How is one to begin to understand and realize the path to Self-Surrender and Self-Enquiry that is already inherent? How is one to proceed when one is having so many doubts and lacking clarity... Continue Reading →
Goal of Action and Inaction – Chapter – 6 (8/4/2018) - Shishya humbly asks, “O Great Guru of the Rishis! You are the all-knowing One. I beg you to enlighten me further about the various ways to understand and realize the anuṣṭhāna and sadhana to seek the Supreme Self that is inherent in each and every created being.” Guru says, “Child, there are innumerable mantras,... Continue Reading →
Self-luminous akshara – Chapter – 7 (8/6/2018) - Guru continues to say, “Child, it is imperative to understand the complexity and structure and dynamics of the self-luminous aksharas that is this created universe. Each and every created being is a self-luminous akshara. He projects the composition, structure and differentials of nature (light, sound, matter, time, space, movement, ego, mind, intellect, five-fold attributes,... Continue Reading →
Akshara Vijnana – Chapter – 8 (8/7/2018) - Guru asks, “Child, why is the knowledge of akshara necessary? Why is it known as Akshara Vijnāna? What is the science of an akshara? As I said earlier, every created being is in the form or shape of the self-luminous akshara. The vast and expansive creation with the ever-changing differentials of nature is within... Continue Reading →
Satchitananda – Chapter – 9 (8/8/2018) - Guru asks, “Child, as I said now, the beejam (seed) of a created being is the self-luminous akshara and the beejam of that self-luminous akshara is Aksharam, then what is this self-luminous akshara? I have said that it has manifested from Aksharam. I have also said that this self-luminous akshara possesses inherent light, sound and matter.... Continue Reading →
Four types of Mukti – Chapter – 10 (8/9/2018) - Guru says, “Child, the composition and structure of this self-luminous akshara will dictate the created being’s perception of the Supreme Self and this will then dictate the path the created being will follow to realize the Supreme Self. The premise for any path is immersion and absorption into the Supreme Self. The knowledge, realization,... Continue Reading →
Who am I? – Chapter – 11 (8/10/2018) - Shishya offers salutations to Guru, “O All-knowing One! I am speechless. I am in a state of joy just from hearing your words. It is indeed the greatest privilege to hear the innermost secrets of the Supreme Self from You. I am eternally grateful and thankful to You. I beseech You to guide me to... Continue Reading →
Gratitude (Kr̥tajñatā) – Chapter – 12 (8/11/2018) - Guru continues saying, “Child, any path or sadhana or anuṣṭhāna undertaken has to be done with devotion and faith – bhakti and shraddha as this will lead the created being to become grateful and thankful to the Supreme Self. The impulse or feeling to be grateful and thankful every second should be spontaneous and natural emanating from within... Continue Reading →
Self-Surrender – Chapter – 13 (8/13/2018) - Guru says, “Son, the self-luminous akshara whose inherent nature is Aksharam is one’s Guru, one’s teacher or acharya, one’s best friend or hiteshi, one’s companion or sakha, one’s Father, one’s Mother, one’s sibling and one’s child. Supreme Self is one but forms are myriad. Why is being grateful and offering thanks imperative for one to become immersed and... Continue Reading →
Absorption in the Self – Chapter – 14 (8/14/2018) - Shishya asks, “O Perfect Being! I surrender myself at Your Golden Lotus Feet and beg You to help me. Please tell me how am I to offer thanks to the Supreme Self.” Guru replies, “Dear child, as Aksharam is the seed for the self-luminous akshara, and the self-luminous akshara is the seed for all creation... Continue Reading →
Karma phala tyāgaḿ – Chapter – 15 (8/16/2018) - Shishya expresses, “O Venerable Guru! This indeed is beautiful and astonishing to hear. I am grateful and thankful to You for revealing the inner secrets of the Supreme Self. But, when both happiness and sorrow are inherent in each and every action and inaction, words, thoughts and speech and fruits of the actions and inactions in... Continue Reading →
Tyāga – Chapter – 16 (8/17/2018) - Guru continues saying, “Son, why has renunciation of the fruits of action and inaction, words, thoughts and speech been given pride of place in a sadhana or anuṣṭhāna or practice? Why is it placed higher than jnāna and dhyāna? It is indeed difficult for a created being to even understand what renunciation entails as the... Continue Reading →
Dhyāna – Chapter – 17 (8/20/2018) - Guru says, “Child, for a created being to even begin to show gratitude and practise acceptance for Self-Surrender, first he must contemplate and introspect on the Supreme Self. For a created being to know, realize, understand, perceive and experience the Supreme Self, the “body” or the manifest state of the self-luminous akshara is his greatest friend. ... Continue Reading →
What is dhyāna? – Chapter – 18 (8/21/2018) - Guru says, “Child, is dhyāna only about sitting in the manner and position as prescribed in the scriptures or is there something more about dhyāna to be known? Introspection and contemplation about one’s own creation and the form and shape of the self-luminous akshara in whose form he has been created in and the self-luminous... Continue Reading →
Brahmopadesham – Chapter – 19 (8/22/2018) - Guru continues saying, “Son, it should be known that a created being is in dhyāna always. Since, the origin of all creation is Aksharam, every created being and all differentials of creation and even the myriad forms of the Supreme Self, mantras, Vedas, Vakhyas, rituals, practices, sadhanas, anuṣṭhānas, homas, yagnas, yāgas, dāna, dharma, jnāna, yoga, dhyāna, actions... Continue Reading →
Apramāda – Chapter – 20 (8/24/2018) - Guru says, “Child, Brahmopadesham is the Supreme Knowledge that each and every created being will be taught by the self-luminous akshara that is the Self. Brahmopadesham is the knowledge, understanding, perception, realization and experience of the self-luminous akshara in entirety. That is the doctrine or upadesh of the Supreme Self. When is Brahmopadesham bestowed on a created being?... Continue Reading →
Transcendence – Chapter – 21 (8/25/2018) - Guru says, “Child, when the very purpose of one’s existence is to know, realize, perceive, understand and experience the Supreme Self and to become immersed and absorbed into the Supreme Self, the most appropriate and best method is to abide by the guidance and instructions of the Self or the self-luminous akshara. The purpose of... Continue Reading →
Atom – Chapter – 22 (8/27/2018) - Guru says, “Child, the complex gamut of creation and creation differentials of nature in this ever-changing and expanding universe is difficult and almost impossible for a created being to comprehend on his own. The reason is that there are innumerable parameters, permutations and combinations in the structure and composition of the atom of creation. ... Continue Reading →
Trying to understand the entire gamut of creation – Chapter – 23 (8/28/2018) - Guru says, “Child, it is necessary to understand the interwoven structure of the atom as it contains the entire gamut of creation and creation differentials. What is important to know is that every atom in a created being will be in the shape and form of the self-luminous akshara that it has taken up. ... Continue Reading →
Subtler than the subtle – 24 (8/29/2018) - Guru says, “Child, as I have said earlier that all of creation lies within the dynamic and complex structure of an atom, it is therefore necessary to perceive its interwoven complex structure, formation and composition to understand how to experience it and transcend it. As I have said earlier, creation is expansive and universe... Continue Reading →
Swayambhu Linga – Chapter- 25 (8/31/2018) - Shishya bows down and asks, “O Great Guru! The astonishing feat of transcending the dense and subtle layers and planes of creation and creation differentials by You rendered all the Rishis and all of creation speechless. I beseech You to guide me further on this.” Guru says, “Son, as I have said earlier all... Continue Reading →
Sole Doer – Chapter – 26 (9/1/2018) - Guru says, “Child, the real meaning of Swayambhu Linga is the transcendental journey and experience of the infinite, indivisible, unmanifest of the unmanifest and unknown of unknown known as the Supreme Self. This is beyond words and beyond description. To say it is space or void or to say it is wondrous or incomprehensible or to... Continue Reading →
The Supreme Self – Chapter – 27 (9/6/2018) - Guru says, “Child, the transcendental journey and experience known as Swayambhu Linga that leads to immersion and absorption into the Supreme Self can be achieved only with the help of the atoms or the “body” or manifest state of the self-luminous akshara and the unmanifest state of the self-luminous akshara and therefore, it is essential... Continue Reading →
Introduction to “Greatness of Arunachala” by Mahaan Sri Seshadri Swamigal (9/11/2018) - Sadguru Sri Seshadri Swami’s “Sesha Gita” The mountain of Arunachala, Thiruvannamalai, is a monumental linga affording protection to animate and inanimate world in addition to the incomprehensible galaxy of bodies in Brahmic manifestation. As a place endowed with the potentiality for erasing sinful karma and for promoting prospects of salvation, Arunachala is the only one of... Continue Reading →
Chapter 1 – Greatness of Arunachala (that attracted Mahaan Seshadri and a host of Sages) (9/12/2018) - If Varanasi(Kashi) is reputed to confer immortality on those dying there, Arunachala (Thiruvannamalai) holds out the same benefit to all those who remember its glorious name! Remember, it is just the remembrance of Arunachala: “Nama smaranamatrena yatpaatakavinaashanam” declares the celebrated Skandapurana. By remembering the great name, all sins of a person will disappear and he... Continue Reading →
Chapter 2 – Benefit of Giri-Pradakshinam (9/12/2018) - “Whoever undertakes the Giri-pradakshinam with the mind securely fixed in My dhyana”, says Lord Arunachaleswara, “will get the benefit of My early grace.The dust he himself raises with his feet will serve as an instrument of immortality”. Whoever begins the mountainous pilgrimage will get unexpected help even from the Devatas in various ways. The Devatas... Continue Reading →
Chapter 3 – Apeetakuchamba and Arunachaleswara (9/12/2018) - Krittika is a great star ruled by Agni, the Lord of Fire – in consonance with the hymn of Yajur Veda “Agnirnahpaatu Krittikaaha….” That is also incendiary constellation identifiable with the manifestation of Devi. Hence when Goddess Parvathi herself undertakes a pradakshinam of the fiery lingam in Arunachala on Karthika Krittika day especially at sunset... Continue Reading →
Chapter 4 – Genesis of Jyothir-linga (9/12/2018) - Once Sanaka Rishi asked Brahma about the greatness of Arunachala, ” Chaturmukha! Lord of the fourteen worlds, foremost among the Devatas and praised in the Vedas”, Sanaka said to Brahma in great humility and with folded hands, “By Your Grace, I have got full enlightenment. By Your great and singular initiation, the wealth of devotion... Continue Reading →
Introduction to “Joys of a Jeevanmukta” (9/15/2018) - (By Iha-Para Sowbhagyavati, Sesha-nada-rupini, Brahmarshi Umadevi Amma, reflecting the Inner Voice of Sadguru Seshadri Swamigal) In recognition of a Sadhaka’s spiritual efforts, God Himself descends into his saintly life to glorify it during the life-time of such a Sadhaka. He becomes a Jeevanmukta. Jeevanmukti is the crowning success of divinity manifesting in him to make his... Continue Reading →
Concepts of Jeevanmukti (9/17/2018) - Srimad Shankara Bhagavatpadacharya devotes an entire chapter (68) in His “Vivekachudmani” to describe the qualities of a Jeevanmukta, i.e., one who is in the state of bliss having been liberated during his lifetime. As many as 20 Slokas extol the virtues of a Jeevanmukta. “In the whole Bhu-loka’’, Adi Shankara says, “there will only be... Continue Reading →
Qualities of a Jeevanmukta (9/17/2018) - Though the body is an inseparable factor just like the shadow that follows one incessantly, the quality of a Jeevanmukta is such as to display the total absence of thinking on “I” or “Mine” or the distortions of selfishness (which originate as a result of egoistic preoccupations of the body). Absence of selfish thoughts and... Continue Reading →
The secret doctrine (9/17/2018) - Adi Shankara lays down the basic postulate that a person who has understood the secret doctrine of Brahman – Brahma-tattva – will no longer have the kind of family attachment he had before. Conversely, a person who continues to have such attachment (and lives like most others) will not have assimilated the Brahme-tattva. (Sloka 441)... Continue Reading →
Vedic authority (9/17/2018) - The Vedas recognise the existence of the phenomenon of Jeevanmukti. Kathopanishad proclaims that a person freeing oneself from the bondage of “eeshanas” will attain salvation. Transcending the crushing and visible bondages of desire, anger and the other inimical forces will mean putting him on the threshold of complete liberation. A Jeevanmukta’s life is one of... Continue Reading →
Parvathi descends to Earth (9/18/2018) - “Great Brahma!”, said Sanaka Maharshi to the Creator, “You are endowed with a wealth of qualities. By Shiva’s grace and your kindness as the Jagadguru, I have heard from you a lot about the greatness of Arunachala. The sanctity of the place is as wonderful as it is capable of redeeming people from all sins.... Continue Reading →
Shiva bestows boons (9/18/2018) - “People who indulge in mere nama-sankirtan or offer prayers to Arunachaleswara even from distant places”, Gautama Maharshi told Parvathi Devi “will have salvation conferred on them. (“Kirtito janardooraihi Shonadririti muktidaha”). Gifts, havans, homas, japa and all types of thapas in the mountainous region will bring infinite benefits. Long ago, in order to enlighten Brahma and... Continue Reading →
Yogavashishta on Jeevanmukti (9/18/2018) - Yogavasishta is “the most wonderful of books” according to Swami Rama Thirtha. Whoever reads it, according to him, will not fail to reach the highest. It explains the doctrine of Advaita through a series of legends. It is also called Vaasistha Ramayan because the great Sage Vasishta initiated Sri Rama into the lore of enlightenment... Continue Reading →
The magic of Holy Waters (9/18/2018) - Shiva stands majestically in the form of mountain in Arunachala. “Shivam Shonachalaakritim”, says Gautama, also, the Shiva linga is mountain itself “Shivalingam-adirupam”, he asserts. The wonderful lingam of gigantic stature is worshipped by all Devatas and Rishis. Sacred waters There are several theerthams in Arunachala containing the holy waters of Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Narmada,... Continue Reading →
The Glory of Indian Motherhood (9/19/2018) - (Immediately after the royal wedding, Kashiraja was ushered into Queen Madalasa’s chambers. The Queen bowed and started an interesting conversation with the King. “Madaalasaam manjula vaagvilaasam”, was the poetic tribute which Kalidasa gave. ) “I want to spend my time in Brahmacharya.” “Then why did you get married?” “I was not interested. My view was... Continue Reading →
Mystic mountain of miracles (9/20/2018) - Arunachaleshwara has the reputation of being the champion of the handicapped and the unfortunate in the legendary fight at the time of Daksha –yagna several Devatas who had lost their limbs at the hands of Veerabhadra worshipped Arunachaleshwara and recovered their former figure and blemishless beauty. Thus Indra got his teeth, Agni his hands, Sun... Continue Reading →
Sadhu Nischaladas (9/20/2018) - Vittalapura was a village. Range Gowda was the Patel of the village. God had been quite merciful to him; for, he had a number of servants to help him. He had been remitting a land revenue of three hundred rupees every year. Irrespective of the distinctions between the poor and the rich, everyone in the... Continue Reading →
Vedic therapy for the fiery flame (9/20/2018) - “How did the fiery lingam of Arunachala”, Parvathi asked Gautama Maharshi, “come within reach of all living beings? How did it cool down? How did holy waters originate in Arunachala? Cooled down for universal protection : “As the fiery Arunachaleswara stood and occupied a radius of several miles”, replied Gautama, “all Maharshis did a... Continue Reading →
Ishwara on Jeevanmukti and Videhamukti (9/21/2018) - Videha Mukti “All knowing Maha Vishnu!”, says Iswara according to Soota Samhita (Mukti Khanda – 2nd chapter) which is part of Skandapurana, “In Vedanta Sastra, the concept of Mukti is explained as of different types. But the most important five of them are (1) Salokya (2) Sameepya (3) Saroopya (4) Sayujya and (5) Swarupa. Mundakopanishad... Continue Reading →
Eligibility (9/21/2018) - The Swetashwara Upanishad says that those who are eligible to receive the benefits of Jeevanmukti state are threefold: (1) The disciples of a Sadguru (2) The devotees of God, and (3) The neutral ones among the atheists and theists (even an atheist gets cleansed of all sin and redeemed from bondage if he catches the... Continue Reading →
Benefits of Jeevanmuktittva (9/21/2018) - From the moment of instant rise of Pratibha Shakti in the person following Sakshatkara or vivid God-experience the jeevan’s state of Jeevanmukti starts; the golden chapter of the sublime life dedicated to humanitarian service and protection of the world goes on till the moment of Videha-kaivalya when the mortal or corporeal appendage withers away. The... Continue Reading →
True end and aim of human life (9/21/2018) - While the benefits of a Jeevanmukta’s life to the world cannot be precisely described, so far as the Jeevanmukta himself is concerned, it is not only an ample demonstration of the highest attainment but also of a living example to seekers and sadhakas in particular and others in general of the true end and aim... Continue Reading →
Need for Sadguru (9/21/2018) - The rise of Brahmajnana is the vanishing point of ignorance and ignorant deeds it circumscribes but on account of an infinitesimal residuum of prarabdha karma, the Brahmajnani’s links with the world continue for some time after the vital God-experience catapulting him into the state of Jeevanmukti. In other words it can be said that the... Continue Reading →
Devadevi (9/21/2018) - The inner frame of mind that has surrendered itself at the Lotus Feet of Sri Hari who is a repository of soundarya (beauty) should not be carried away by delusions of female beauty. Your idea of capturing him to gratify your earthly desires is, therefore nothing but a mirage”. “How is that? As if this... Continue Reading →
A visit for visible fruits (9/21/2018) - “Great thapasvi!”, said Parvati Devi to sage Gautama, I have a feelings of complete fulfillment from what you have told me about the greatness of Arunachala. I am struck by its mystic glory. Namaskarams to you! You will be glad to note that Shiva himself has directed me to carry on the balance of thapas... Continue Reading →
Shortcuts to Divine Grace (9/21/2018) - Identification of the factor that brings about a flood of knowledge is rendered easy and quick through the grace of Sadgurus like Mahan Sri Seshadri. Knowledge is the causative force leading one to salvation. Alternatively, attainments such as this can be very easily reached by observance of vratams (austerities and disciplines) in Shiva kshetras. Material... Continue Reading →
Invincibility of earthly wonder (9/22/2018) - It is Lord Arunachaleswara’s wish that Parasakti who through her inimitable powers and prayers is protecting the universe which is a projection of herself should receive sevas In Arunachala in the attractive name of Apeetha-kuchamba -a name suggestive of eternal youthful energy, inexhaustible source of knowledge, illimitable kindness and insatiable thirst for fulfilling the wishes... Continue Reading →
Greatness of Arunachala (9/22/2018) - “Mahishasura”, explained sage Gautama to Parvathi, “must really have been a devotee of Arunachaleswara in his previous life. That is why although he acquired the form Mahisha by a curse of the Rishis for his misdeeds actuated by pride and prejudice, he has a Shiva linga adorning his neck.” “Is there any one in... Continue Reading →
A Jagadguru extols qualities of a Jeevanmukta (9/22/2018) - His Holiness Sri Sri Bharatitheertha Swamigal of Sringeri Sharada Peetam says that the subject of Jeevanmukti has been particularly discussed in Advaita Siddhanta; the Vedas, he reiterates, assert the essence in many ways as with such authoritative passages as “Atra Brahma Samsrute”. In clear terms he describes Jeevanmukti as attaining liberation while this body lasts. ... Continue Reading →
A Jeevanmukta par excellence! (9/22/2018) - Sage Pareekshit, the recipient of Shuka Brahma’s grace in full measure and author of the unique Shuka Gayathri mantra described the son of Vyasa, the repository of Vedic knowledge and the patriarch of Puranas, as a Jeevanmukta par excellence and a personification of peace. “Jeevanmuktam sadaa shantam” Shuka, according to Pareekshit, was not only an... Continue Reading →
Brahma & Dattathreya on Jeevanmukti (9/22/2018) - The simplest way to liberation! Narada Maharshi was once very much worried about the shape of things to come in Kali Yuga. He went to Satya loka and asked the Creator of the universe, Brahma, “My Lord! As soon as we reach the darker side of Kali Yuga, men tend to give up righteous ways... Continue Reading →
Upanishad of a Jeevanmukta (9/24/2018) - Shukarahasyopanishad Prajnaanaadimahaavaakya-rahasyadikalevaram, Vikalevarakaivalyam tripaadraamamaham bhaje. “Shukarahasyopanishad is verily the crown of all Upanishads” – Shiva “The Upanishads”, said Sri Sadashiva, “is to the Vedas what the head is to the body, but Shukarahasyopanishad is verily the crown of all Upanishads. Whoever meditates on the Brahman conceived by this secret Upanishad develops detachment,” as a prelude... Continue Reading →
Nityananda (9/24/2018) - “Yogananda! Your idea appears to be well-founded indeed. It may well be that Gurudeva’s view is also identical. Adhyayana may demand two people being present in a place but it is in the fitness of things there should be only one person for thapas, namely the tapasvi alone!” “Nityananda! I have also been thinking over... Continue Reading →
The jyothi of Arunachala (9/24/2018) - Devi assumed the role of Mahishasuramardini – as Durga and put an end to the life of the mighty rakshasa. Although there was widespread jubilation of a justifiable nature, Parvathi’s calculations and conclusions were different. Addressing Durga, she said, “Vindhyavasini! As a result of your unique accomplishment, my thapas reached its fitting finale without impediments.... Continue Reading →
Worship of Arunachala (9/24/2018) - “I have already told you”, said Arunachaleswara addressing Sage Gautama, “how I had settled in Bhu-loka as Arunachaleswara. You are very dear to me. Many among the fortunate start worshipping me right from early times by virtue of their “punya” of the previous life. I want you to excel all and, as the foremost among... Continue Reading →
Regulation of worship (9/24/2018) - Arunachaleswara wishes that utsavams at the temple are celebrated in a fitting manner at least once a month. The shishyas who process the pujas, according to him, must be well-versed in the Vedas, virtuous, gifted, pure in mind and always radiating a pleasant attitude and exuberance. They should be disciplined and display internal and external... Continue Reading →
Some Jeevanmuktas (9/25/2018) - ( A ) Sri Shuka Maharshi A lofty king among mountains called Himalaya stretching from East to West adorns our land of glory in the North like a yardstick meant to measure it. At the foot of the mountain lies a place of divinity called Badarikashram. Once it was at this place that Veda Vyasa... Continue Reading →
Alchemy! (9/25/2018) - In the heart of a thick forest, stood a small hut. In front of the hut there was a platform of stone and a deer-skin adorned it. Seated in half-padmasana posture radiating peace was one whose body had grown thin with thapas. An emaciated exterior, a far reaching forehead, a pair of eyes glittering with... Continue Reading →
Andal (9/25/2018) - A great devotee of Vishnu called Vishnuchitta, a resident of Srivilliputtur, had developed a flower garden mainly for the purpose of offering everyday a garland chiefly to tulasi leaves to the temple in the vicinity. His labour of love behind the offering was intense. His faith in God was equally unique and unwavering. One day,... Continue Reading →
Durghata (9/25/2018) - Durghata, born of poor parents, was a well-known legendary figure with notoriety for having committed more sinful deeds than others. He was not afraid of his vicious record nor of the results of his inglorious past. Flaunting his cruel hands, he dared to indulge freely in devilish deeds. He had killed many virtuous men, destroyed... Continue Reading →
Shashivarna & Shubhaga (9/25/2018) - “Suspecting devotees of God”, said Iswara, addressing Vishnu, and doubting Brahma, you and me bring about major impediments to rise of jnana in a person. Displaying total lack of understanding of those on the dharmic path and causing harm to the reputation of those who have understood the Vedas also impede one’s progress towards Atma... Continue Reading →
Sangira (9/25/2018) - Long ago, there was a Brahmin called Sangira stepped in ignorance and bereft of faith in Vedas as a result of sins committed by him in his previous incarnation: “Puraa kashcin-mahaa-murkhah-Sangiro namma baadabaha, Poorva-janma-kritaath-paapaath-Veda-shraddha vivirjithaha”. He was interested in Logic; he tried to know the transcendental principal of the Brahman and the pictures of good... Continue Reading →
Chandrasena (9/26/2018) - Once the Rishis wanted to know from Suta Maharshi, the repository of the vignettes of Vedanta, the secret about any jyotrilinga kshetra (apart from Arunachala) the knowledge of the greatness of which would promote the quality of bhakta in one. The repository replied that the jyotrilinga of Mahalinga which had the reputation of being the... Continue Reading →
Gautama (9/26/2018) - There is a legend attributed to Vyasa Maharshi about the great Gautama – a legend, the knowledge of which helps to redeem one from the karma of past sins. Gautama Maharshi had performed penance for 10,000 years at Brahmagiri in the South. His spouse was the well known repository of dharma, namely, Ahalya. Once a... Continue Reading →
Iswara (9/26/2018) - The legendary description of Iswara’s leela is wonderful, according to all the Rishis who had first-hand knowledge of the vignettes of Iswara tattva and Vedanta. It inspires bhakti even in an atheist! Great Rishis like Vyasa and Sanatkumara, all-knowing as they were, had displayed rare knowledge of Shiva tattva. Vyasa Maharshi met Sanatkumara once and... Continue Reading →
Chapter 6 – Universe glows from the glowing Arunachaleswara (9/26/2018) - “Great Nandikeswara!” said Sage Markandeya, “I had the pleasure of listening to your narration of the legend about Vidyadharas (Kantishali and Kaladhara) – a legend which can be likened to the lunar disc throwing light on the ocean of greatness called Arunachaleswara. However, how did King Vajrangada attain salvation? How did he worship Arunachaleswara? How... Continue Reading →
Adi Sankara (9/27/2018) - If one reaches the appropriate spiritual level, it is entirely possible to come face to face with Sankara. A small group of spiritual aspirants was exchanging notes and sharing personal experiences in a satsang in a Nadi (palm leaf) astrologer’s house in Bangalore more than two decades ago. The subject of their conversation was Adi... Continue Reading →
Mahan Seshadri (9/27/2018) - Bhagavan Seshadri Swamigal’s ways and means of conveying the quintessence of our philosophy and shedding light on the ultimate reality of existence have been as profoundly simple as they have been unique. “When the physical frame withers away”, according to his cryptocrystalline tattva nirupana, “The sesha or what remains following the fall of the body... Continue Reading →
Legendary Light on greatness (9/27/2018) - Sage Markandeya once asked Nandikeswara, “Bhagawan! You are always immersed in the thoughts of the blissful image of Shiva. The nectar called the greatness of Arunachala related by you has made me ecstatic. How is it that the Pandyan King Vajrangada having been found guilty of committing sacrilege in Arunachala regained the glory of his... Continue Reading →
Nakshatra pujas (9/27/2018) - It has been repeatedly mentioned in Skandapurana that Arunachaleswara will always have a soft corner for those who undertake pradakshina, thapas and austerities in Arunachala. There will be no experience of physical and mental aliments wherever the linga of Arunachaleswara is worshipped. Offering during 27 Nakshatras Arunachaleswara likes different offerings on each day of... Continue Reading →
Thithi pujas (9/27/2018) - It has been authoritatively stated in Skandapurana that Arunachaleswara would like certain specified major offerings (naivedyams) depending upon the phases of the moon (thithis) in the same way as different offerings are earmarked for the ruling constellations (nakshatras). The impact of lunar rays on earth especially on vegetation, herbs, oceanic waves and tides and certain... Continue Reading →
Chapter 5 – The greatest kshetra – A profound secret (9/28/2018) - There was once a great desire on the part of Sages in Naimisharanya forest to know which among the many Shiva kshetras on land was the greatest one. Earlier, this indeed was the question which bothered Sage Markandeya who however preferred to seek an answer from Nandikeswara. “Deveswara, Ocean of Kindness!” said Markandeya, addressing... Continue Reading →
Chapter 7 – The Antaryamin (9/28/2018) - The real greatness of Arunachala lies in its being the embodiment of jyoti (divine light) and in the fantasy and phantasmagoria of the aurora of Arunachala. The profound secrets of Arunachala are known only to Rishis, Sages, Yogis and true devotees of Arunachaleswara and Apeetha Kuchamba. The jyotirlinga kshetra, which is unique for the manifestation... Continue Reading →
Humility melts the Lord (9/29/2018) - It is not perhaps know to many that the thejo linga of Paramatman does not get destroyed even in a deluge and that it enjoys the reputation of constantly being worshipped by rains of flowers, by the melody of divine music and by the dance and prayers of the celestial nymphs. The kind Lord... Continue Reading →
An an-thrilling conception (9/29/2018) - The Skandapuranic legend centering round Vighneswara is doubtless known to many but is narrated here not only in the interests of accuracy and authenticity of the anecdote but also to include it as part of a fairly comprehensive series of legends that throw light on the greatness of Arunachala and to focus attention on the... Continue Reading →
Chapter 8 – Aurora of Arunachala (9/29/2018) - The importance of the sacred place of Thiruvannamalai in Tamil Nadu lies in the secret of its being the centre of the thejo linga kshetra and in its being the secret abode of the Supreme Lord Shiva in his elemental form of fire. While the celebrated linga adorns the temple of Arunachaleswara, Skandapurana comes out... Continue Reading →
Introduction to “Draupadi in Distress” (10/1/2018) - Draupadi constitutes the most unique example of a dame in distress – the kind of distress probably unknown to any other heroine or female character in a story, legend or epic like the Mahabharata. She would perhaps have willingly subjected herself to any severe punishment coupled with dignity but was destined to stake all her... Continue Reading →
Chapter 1 – Yudhishtira loses all in the game of dice (10/1/2018) - The game of dice and the crescendo of Kaurava’s delight in a stormy and tempestuous atmosphere continued unabated as Yudhishtira suffered successive defeats. Victory appeared to be unknown to him. Addressing the losing Yudhishtira, Shakuni said, “Yudhishtira You have staked and lost all the wealth belonging to Pandavas. Is there anything valuable which has not... Continue Reading →
Chapter 2 – Draupadi as stake (10/1/2018) - In the midst of this confusion and total disillusionment in Yudhishtira’s camp, the cunning Shakuni had a brain wave. “You made a mistake”, he said to Yudhishtira, “by staking yourself. However you are left with one more valuable item of wealth. In spite of it, it is unfortunate on your part to have offered... Continue Reading →
Chapter 3 – Vidura pulls up Duryodhana (10/1/2018) - Duryodhana, rendered indiscreet by the flush of victory lost even the modicum of mental balance and commanded Vidura to undertake an unpleasant task. “Vidura!” he said to him, “Go at once and bring Draupadi, the love of Pandavas. Let her sweep the floor of the house and keep it clean. That unfortunate one shall... Continue Reading →
Chapter 4 – Draupadi dragged to court (10/2/2018) - Stung by the bug of arrogance, Duryodhana scoffed at Vidura and protesting against his words, called a messenger. He asked him to bring Draupadi to the court and said, “You need not be afraid of the sons of Pandu. The only one who fears is Vidura. He, however, is not interested in our progress.” ... Continue Reading →
Chapter 5 – Draupadi disgraced (10/2/2018) - Vikarna’s observations were, however, absolutely unpalatable to one among the wicked gang of four (Duryodhana, Dusshaasana, Shakuni and Karna) namely Karna. Karna was provoked by the praise showered by the respectable ones and by the criticism leveled against his colleague Shakuni. Overcoming by his anger, he admonished Vikarna, raising his handsome hand in the process.... Continue Reading →
Chapter 6 – Bhima’s revenge (10/2/2018) - “Rulers from far and near!” he said to them. “Please hear these words patiently and my vow. You would not have heard these in the past. There is no likelihood of your hearing it in the future also. If I do not fulfil the vow I am undertaking, let me not get the fortune of... Continue Reading →

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