The Indian Dharma

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the continuation of the reply given by Sage Pauraanika on how to lead a spiritually sound life in this Kali Yuga. As we’ve been witnessing for the past few episodes, this Kali Yuga is going to be extremely challenging for spiritual seekers, owing to loads of uncertainties, confusions amongst people, lack of motivation to follow the spiritual path continuously, etc. However, Sage Pauraanika has a solution to all this and as a part of this, we’ve witnessed that visiting “Punya-Kshetras” might help us gain and re-gain the requisite knowledge that is required to walk the path of Dharma.

Eventually, we also witnessed that by developing “detachment” from worldly objects and aspects would be the prime requirement for spiritual aspirants in this Kali Yuga. In yesterday’s episode, we had commenced the discussion on this particular point by enlisting the various ways and means through which our mind gets trapped into unwanted attachments in this world. It might be attachment towards our family, attachment towards our physical and mental desires, attachment towards food items, most importantly money, gold, real estate, etc. In fact, the whole world today only runs after money, isn’t it? 😊 We’ve even gone to the extent of compromising anything and everything in life, for the sake of money! Thus, these unwanted attachments that we posses today are all factors that make us move away from Bhagawan and Dharma every time.

Now the question comes as to how do we come out of these worldly attachments that hamper our spiritual pursuit. There are many methodologies prescribed by various spiritual masters, various great Sages of yester-years and even by Bhagawan himself. In the Bhagawad Gita, Bhagawan Krishna himself talks about this important topic. He says,

“Uttharedaatmanaathmaanam aathmaanam ava saadhayeth!

Aathmaivahyaathmano bandhuhu aathmaiva ripuraatmanaha!!”

Here, Bhagawan Krishna explains to Arjuna thus, “Oh Arjuna! Your mind can be your best friend, as well as your best enemy in life!” Not understanding these words, Arjuna asks, “Oh Krishna! How can it be possible? How can my mind be both a friend and an enemy at the same time? It should be either of the two, isn’t it?” Bhagawan Krishna replies thus, “Oh Arjuna! If your mind is devoid of all worldly attachment, it can be your greatest friend on earth! Whereas, if your mind is fully into worldly attachments, there can never be a greater enemy than this!” This is exactly what Sage Pauraanika is saying here too. If at all we’ve to progress upwards spiritually, we need to have a mind who should be our “greatest friend”. This simply means that a “detached” mind is required for spiritual growth in this Kali Yuga!

Now what is the message that we can take out from Bhagawan Krishna’s and Sage Pauraanika’s words? The paramount aspect that we need to focus is to create more and more awareness about Bhagawan within ourselves. The more we do this, the mind will slowly start reducing its wandering towards worldly attachments and at one point, it is possible to free our mind completely from all of it. Here is where, readers should not get mistaken – For instance, if we classify “money”, “wealth”, “property”, etc. under worldly attachments, many of us would ask back, “Oh! How do we make a living in this world without earning money? How do we sustain in this world without having some property under our name? Are you asking us to lead our lives like beggars on the platform?” This is not the point here. Of course, money, wealth and property is required. It is a necessity in today’s life. It is totally agreed upon. But the problem comes when we start craving for excess of money, property, etc. Anything that we get in excess is not good for our life, isn’t it? For instance, just because I like sweets, can I keep eating sweets all three times a day? Just because I like samosas and pizzas, can I keep eating them all through the day? Won’t I land up in having cholesterol and blood-pressure related problems? Thus, if we like something, we have it in a controlled manner, isn’t it?

This is exactly what “detachment” is. The word “detachment” does not mean that we completely ignore something. It is just that we don’t “crave” for that something. This is the difference here – For instance, if we earn money through legitimate ways and if we’re able to derive satisfaction with what we earn and what we have, life becomes more peaceful isn’t it? Whereas, what is happening in today’s world? The problem is that people have started to “crave” for money. This feeling of “craving” is what Bhagawan Krishna describes as “attachment”. We’re witnessing every day the repercussions of people craving for money! The moment we crave for something, we would go to any extent to get it done! This is what is extremely dangerous and as ardent followers of our Sanaathana Dharma, we should immediately take stern steps to curtail this “craving”. This craving that I’m describing is not only for money, but for every other worldly aspect that we go behind today.

Hence, the point is that, if we’re able to get rid of these attachments by enhancing our knowledge about Bhagawan and His significance, we would slowly start progressing towards the path of Dharma. If we’re able to do this in a steadfast manner, no matter what obstacle comes by our way, we would be able to overthrow everything and chug along! So for today, let us ponder over this important point and in the next episode, we shall move forward with the next important point of discussion. Stay tuned! 😉

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the continuation of Sage Pauraanika’s reply on why should we visit “Punya-Kshetras”. The benefits of doing so are enormous and this is one of the most important ways in which we can stay focused in the path of Dharma in this Kali Yuga. As we’ve witnessed over the past few episodes, this Kali Yuga has all the ingredients to pull us away from Bhakti and from Bhagawan. So it is up to us to follow the advice given by Sage Pauraanika, so as to escape those ingredients that might hamper our spiritual progress. As Sage Pauraanika talks about the “Punya-Kshetras”, many of us are aware that our Bhaarata Desha is a hub of these important places. Across the entire length and breadth of the country, we have innumerable places of worship that are extremely holy and sacred. These “Punya-Kshetras” not only comprises of temples, but also of many other aspects. We have sacred rivers (Like River Ganges, Yamuna, Narmada, Godavari, Cauvery, etc.), sacred forests (Like Naimisharanya), sacred cities (Like Ayodhya, Dwaraka, Varanasi, Gaya, etc.), sacred sea coasts (Like Rameshwaram, Tiruchendur, etc.), sacred bridge (Ram-Sethu), etc. All of these put together comprise of the “Punya-Kshetras”.

Now we would have an important question here – How do we say that our sins would be washed away if we visit these Punya-Kshetras? The answer is simple – This assurance of our sins being washed away upon visiting Punya-Kshetras is directly given by Bhagawan Himself. If Bhagawan has said something, how can that become false? For instance, during the Ramayana project we had witnessed how Bhagawan Rama Himself made sure that the Ram-Sethu bridge that was built by the Vaanara army to cross over to the Sri Lankan side is highlighted in a big way to all people. As Bhagawan Rama, along with Mother Sita, Vibhishana, etc. take to the “Pushpaka Vimaana” and cross over this bridge, Bhagawan Rama shows this particular bridge to Mother Sita and says thus, “Oh Sita! This is the bridge that I had built along with Sugriva and Co. to cross over into Lanka. This bridge in future, is going to be a very important place of worship, wherein thousands and thousands of people would come to this place and take bath. By doing so, all of their sins would completely be washed away and this is my assurance to all my devotees! So Sita, please have a closer look at this bridge and bless it with your merciful eyes!” Hearing that from her husband, Mother Sita looks at the bridge and blesses it with her beautiful look and from that point onwards, this place called “Rameshwaram” in the south-Indian state of Tamil Nadu has become an important place of worship for people from all over the country. It is believed even today that if one takes bath in the Rameshwaram beach, all our sins are completely washed away at that instant itself. Similar to that of Rameshwaram, every other “Punya-Kshetra” has the same effect and this is why Sage Pauraanika gives this point as a valuable advice during the advent of the Kali Yuga.

Moreover, if we look at it from the “awareness” angle, the more we visit temples of holy significance, the more is the opportunity for us to learn about Bhagawan. Every “Punya-Kshetra” has its own association with Bhagawan and there would have been something extremely significant and miraculous that would have taken place at that point. Hence, if we visit these places and try to learn all of these significances by sitting at that place, our level of Bhakti would automatically start increasing. Our spiritual growth is directly proportional to the increase of Bhakti. Hence for all these reasons, we should make it a point that we spend some time of ours in visiting these important places, so that our spiritual growth is taken care of.

Now moving on further with Sage Pauraanika’s reply, he talks about detachment of our mind.

“Yevam Prasanna manasaha bhagawath bhakti yogataha!

Bhagawath tathva vignyaanam mukta sangasya jaayate!!”

Here Sage Pauraanika talks about something that we struggle to achieve every day! He says thus, “In this Kali Yuga, people would get attached to so many unwanted things that would pull and repel them away from Bhagawan and Bhakti! Because of this attachment, people would start going behind those things and start craving for them. This would eventually go into such an extent that they would even forget Bhagawan in the process!”

As Sage Pauraanika issues this warning, we need to ponder over – In what all ways is my mind getting attached? It might be attachment towards our family, attachment towards our physical and mental desires, attachment towards food items, etc. The list goes on and on! However, the deeper question that needs to be asked here is, how do we come out of these worldly attachments? The only way is to focus our mind on Bhagawan. It is easier said than done, of course! But we do not have an option here! We should somehow by hook or crook, try and tame our mind that runs like a mad monkey here and there, and make it focus on Bhagawan. Once we’re able to slowly do it over time, our spiritual maturity increases, which in turn aids us to inch closer and closer to Bhagawan.

So for today, let us start pondering over this point on attachments pegging us back on our pursuit towards Dharma. We shall continue this important discussion in the next episode also and witness few more important aspects of it. Stay tuned! 😊

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the continuation of the discussion on Sage Pauraanika’s reply on the Kali Yuga’s Dharma. We saw yesterday that of course, following the principles of Dharma in a steadfast manner, might be very difficult in this Kali Yuga, yet it is not impossible. All we need is a strong resolve, ultra-sharp focus on what we do and the resilience to stick to the path of Dharma, come what may!

In fact, we can even take it as an examination that is given to us by Bhagawan. We’ve all done our education from schooling till our under-graduation and / or post-graduation. In due course, we would have given innumerable examinations at various stages of our academic career. In fact, in the modern day corporate too, every day is an examination! 😊 If we’re able to take up those examinations with a resolve and a challenge, work towards it and succeed, why can’t we take up the examination given to us by Bhagawan and try to succeed in it?

Now what is the examination that Bhagawan is giving us here? Bhagawan is trying to “test” our resilience and persistence to the path of Dharma, irrespective of whatever comes through in our life. As I had mentioned earlier, there might be innumerable obstacles that come our way during our pursuit towards following Dharma. Some people might brand us as “old-fashioned”, some people might neglect us, ignore us, abuse us, insult us in public, make fun or us amongst our peers, etc. Some might try to brainwash us by saying that all these spiritual practices are nonsense and doesn’t hold good in today’s world! Some close family members or friends might even leave and abandon us from their lives! Sometimes, we might even face obstacles in the form of “time” when it comes to managing our professional and personal commitments. Sometimes, it might be health problems – both physical and mental health, that might hinder our pursuit of Dharma. The list is long enough! However, the real examination for all of us is that, are we able to cross over all of these obstacles and still follow Bhakti! If we’re able to “pass” this examination successfully, we can really consider ourselves to be great! 😊

But having said this, there is a small difference between the exams that we give for our career growth and the exam that Bhagawan gives us – If we fail in our career-growth exams, it might be difficult for us to progress further and possibilities are high that we might not end up getting a good job, earning more money, etc. However, if we fail in Bhagawan’s exam there is no such risk involved! As we all know that Bhagawan is the most merciful of all (“Kaarunya-Murthi”), He makes sure that all our mistakes are forgiven and we progress forward. Thus in other words, even if we fail Bhagawan’s examination, there is always a possibility to re-work and re-appear for another examination. However having said thus, of course we shouldn’t take it as an advantage and sit in a corner, not trying anything. We should have a clear attitude towards Dharma and if this attitude is present in all of us, it is perfectly fine even if we fail the examination. Bhagawan is not interested whether we pass the exam or not. He is more interested in the attitude with which we take up the exam. Thus, the point here is that, attitude, right mindset and good intent is of paramount importance as we focus ourselves through the path of spiritual growth.

Thus moving on further with Sage Pauraanika’s reply, he gives another solution for people who are pursuing the path of Dharma, yet are struggling with it. Of course, we’ve witnessed his answer that following Dharma in Kali Yuga is extremely tough, but there are solutions. One such solution is as below. Sage Pauraanika continues thus:

“Pashyanthyaathmani aathmaanam bhaktyaa shrutha griheetayaa!

Tasmaad ekena manasaa bhagawan saapthvathaam pathihi!!”

Here he says thus, “Oh disciples! There is another solution too – By visiting ‘Punya-kshetras’ across the Bhaarata Desha, we would be able to associate ourselves along the path of Dharma easily!” Now how does this work? Let’s take this discussion forward:

One important factor that deters us every now and then from following the pursuit of Dharma is our “mind”. Most of the time, our mind is completely polluted with lot of unwanted thoughts that only lead us to depression! These thoughts are to be removed often. Just like how an automobile vehicle would come to a halt, if the carburetor is filled up with dirt such as mud, dust, etc. our pursuit towards spiritual growth also comes to a grinding halt if our mind is full of dirt. Our human mind is like the carburetor here. Just like how the vehicle can run again after the carburetor is cleaned and greased up properly, our mind can also run again towards spiritual growth when we cleanse it from all the unwanted thoughts and negative emotions that we tend to go through.

The carburetor can be cleaned by various methods like applying grease, water-washing it, etc. But how do we cleanse our mind? One good way is by visiting “Punya-Kshetras” or “Holy places of worship”. In fact, we are blessed and fortunate to be in Bhaarata Desha (India), which is a hub of “Punya-Kshetras”. Right from Kaasi (Varanasi), to Gaya, to Badrinath, to Kedarnath, to Dwaraka, to Puri Jagannath, to Rameshwaram, to Madurai, the list goes on and on! By visiting these important “Punya-Kshetras”, we are slowly washing away all our dirt and sins that are sticking on to our body and mind. It is only this dirt that is deterring all of us from following the path of Dharma. If we’re able to cleanse ourselves from the dirt, we would automatically start pursuing Dharma, without any instruction from anybody. Once we’re able to cleanse this dirt from ourselves, we need no test from Bhagawan too! 😊

Hence, the point from today’s episode is that, we should make it a habit to visit “Punya-Kshetras” during our lifespan. We should somehow allocate some time for this and this would immensely benefit us in lot of ways. Our sins get washed away easily. Our mind gets cleared of all the unwanted and negative thoughts and emotions. With this, we can give ourselves an opportunity to think of Bhagawan, know and understand His significance in each temple and this knowledge and understanding is what will make us transcend towards the path of Bhakti easily. In yesterday’s episode we were talking about “awareness about Bhagawan”, isn’t it? Visiting “Punya-Kshetras” is one way through which we can create this awareness.

So for today, let us ponder over this important point and let’s try to put it into practice. We shall wait till the next episode to witness the next important point. Stay tuned! 😊

In the previous episode, we had witnessed an important discussion owing to the “awareness” factor that is a big hinderance in today’s Kali Yuga that is preventing all of us from walking the path of spiritual growth. In fact, there are so many small aspects that are completely doable by all of us in our daily lives, that directly contribute to our spiritual growth. For instance, many of us might be performing the Sandhyavandanam, Shraadham, chanting our Mantra, Vedas, etc. regularly in our lives. All these will contribute a lot towards our spiritual growth.

Thus it is important that we meticulously follow all of these without a break. What might happen here is that, owing to various worldly reasons, we might somehow start getting the feeling that performing all of these spiritual practices is a mere waste of time and energy. In today’s world of course, there are innumerable people, ways and means that keep propagating such things every now and then. If we start lending our ears to such people, we would definitely start having doubts about ourselves and what we’re doing. Hence, it is important that we do not fall into these traps and that, we continue doing whatever spiritual practices we’re doing. It should always be remembered that these spiritual practices are slowly and steadily making us walk the path of Dharma. We might not be able to see a tangible outcome at that moment, but surely, Bhagawan is watching all of us and He would ensure that we get the benefits of doing them at a time when we really are in need. We should always have this in mind that the effects that we receive out of performing spiritual practices and following the path of Dharma is intangible in nature. These would give us the fruit when the apt time comes.

Thus the point here is that, “awareness” on all these aspects are of paramount importance amongst all of us in this Kali Yuga. It is not that all of us are atheists. It is not that nobody has the intention to follow the path of Dharma. But the problem here is that, we lack awareness and understanding that this is the correct path of Dharma that leads to Moksha. Once we reign in this awareness within us, every action of ours can be transformed into actions of Dharma! 😊 This statement might be a bit fancy to read, but this is possible, if all of us can join hands and work together towards the goal. It is not a difficult task at all – All we require is focus, sincerity and a pure heart. If we can bring these three factors to the table, following the path of Dharma is just a cakewalk! So let us meticulously start from this moment onwards!

As we spoke yesterday about “awareness”, we discussed another angle to it as well. Readers might remember the question that we asked yesterday – How does “Bhakti” or “Devotion” grow within a spiritual seeker? We also gave a brief answer that Bhakti grows only as we gradually get to know and understand about Bhagawan. Just like how we fall in love with a person while we are teen-agers – How does it happen? If we have a crush on someone, we tend to ask many people around and try to understand who that person really is. Additionally, we try to have a glimpse of that person every now and then! The more we know about that person, the more we start developing the feeling of love for that person, isn’t it? 😊 “Bhakti” is very similar too! If we’re developing the feeling of deep longing and affection for another human being in this world, we term it as “Romance” or “Love”. Whereas if we’re developing the feeling of deep love and longing for Bhagawan, it is termed as “Bhakti” or “Devotion”. This is the only difference between the two.

Hence, the point here is that, just like how worldly love would prosper more and more as we would try to know about a person in and out, “Bhakti” would prosper more and more as we try to know and understand about Bhagawan and His significance. It is for this purpose of knowing about Bhagawan, we try to have discourses, writings about Bhagawan and His divine activities, etc. Hence, as ardent followers of our Sanaathana Dharma, we should make it a point to go into this groove of reading, listening and understanding about Bhagawan, for Bhakti to prosper!

But having said that, there is a problem here! I’m warning all of you straightaway – If we tend to spend more and more time on Bhagawan every passing day, our interest in the worldly activities would start reducing automatically. We would slowly start developing the sense of “detachment” that Bhagawan Krishna has elaborated in detail in His Bhagawad Gita. Although this is a good aspect and a perfect start-point for our spiritual growth, this might not go very well with people around us! There might be people who would pass cheap comments on us! There might be some people who may abuse us verbally for not keeping ourselves on track with the regular worldly activities! There might be friends and relatives of ours who might even go to the extent of abandoning us completely! But as a true “Bhaktha” (Devotee) of Bhagawan, we should never give into all of these things! Of course, it is easier said than done, we should understand here that these are the sorts of “distractions” we would come across while following the path of spirituality and spiritual growth. In this Kali Yuga, this is extremely common, and this is exactly what Sage Pauraanika is also talking about in this context! Now can we feel the relevance of what Sage Pauraanika was mentioning in the last episode? We spoke about “something” that might deter us from taking the path of Bhakti. This is that “something” that we’ve to go through in this world as an ardent spiritual seeker in this Kali Yuga! 

Thus, the point that we’re trying to emphasizing here is that, in this Kali Yuga, things are bound to be this way and we can’t do much about it! However, rather than buckling down, we should find our own ways and means to come out of these situations and still follow the Dharma. It is just like a person unaware of swimming, being pushed into water. Just like how this person swims and struggles his way through water by trying his best to survive, we should also try our best to survive and still walk the path of Bhakti. Of course, it is not easy to do it, but it is still possible. If we look at the lives of many “Mahatmas” – For instance, Shirdi Sai Baba, Sadguru Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, etc. all of them had a terrible time during their young days. However, they never gave up on their pursuit towards Dharma. They still walked the path of Dharma with all of their struggles, trials, tribulations, physical abuse, verbal abuse, etc. and this is the reason why they’re highly respected by people across the world.

So the message from today’s episode is that, following the path of Bhakti in this Kali Yuga is tough, but is possible. We need to put in the right effort in the right direction, according to the guidance of a Guru and if we’re able to do this, we can reach our ultimate goal, irrespective of whatever happens around us. So for today, let us ponder over this important point and let us join hands and work together to achieve this goal. We shall wait till the next episode to continue the discussion on Sage Pauraanika’s reply. Stay tuned! 😊

In the previous episode, we had witnessed an important discussion on the questions that were asked to Sage Pauranika by his disciples. They ask out of genuine concern that how are they going to sustain in this Kali Yuga, given innumerable challenges for people who aspire for spiritual growth. As per Sage Pauranika’s disciples claims, we’re today facing the same or even more number of challenges that deter us from walking the path of Dharma. We had discussed in detail some of the challenges in yesterday’s episode, but what stands out from this discussion is that, there is “something” that constantly keeps pulling us down and continuously keeps deterring us from taking the path of spiritual growth. This “something” is a very subjective terminology, wherein it differs from person to person. For some of us, this “something” can be family problems that might plague us during our routine life. For some others, it might be some health issues that constantly might keep deterring them every now and then. For few other people, who are real aspirants of spiritual growth, this “something” can come as some sort of a mental depression every now and then and this can deter people big time! Thus, all in all, there is “something” in this Kali Yuga that keeps pulling people down every now and then, from following the path of Dharma to attain spiritual growth.

Another way of looking at this is that, in the previous Krita, Tretha and Dvaapara Yugas, people knew exactly what would lead them towards “Moksha”, and they followed the path unanimously with complete focus. For instance, all of us might know about King Janaka, who was the father of Mother Sita. King Janaka is considered to be an epitome of “Karma Yoga” (attaining Bhagawan’s feet through intense spiritual practices and duties). In fact, Bhagawan Krishna Himself praises King Janaka in the Bhagawad Gita, as one of the very few people in this world who had attained Moksha through Karma Yoga. Thus, we can see here that these kinds of intense levels of spiritual practices were possible during those times.

However as we’ve advanced with time and age, this intensity is virtually impossible for all of us today. Given our personal, family, professional commitments, etc. that we face every passing day, it is increasingly difficult to allocate time for spirituality and spiritual practices. Nowadays, even allocating 1-2 hours everyday is becoming impossible. Because of this, we’ve started lacking awareness on what is “Dharma” and what are the tasks and duties that are prescribed in our Sanaathana Dharma to attain Moksha. At the onset of it, we think that following the path of Dharma is such a complex task to do, but little do we realize that there are simple tasks that we can do every passing day, so as to associate ourselves in this path.

For instance, if we’re able to do our “Sandhyavandanam” and other basic spiritual practices every day without fail, this itself is a big stride towards Dharma. Performing these practices everyday would not even take us 15 minutes. Similarly, if we’re able to maintain ourselves without talking lies or hurting others, again we’re making a good stride forward. In the same lines, if we’re able to perform our “Pithru-Kaarya” (Duties towards our ancestors) like “Shraadham”, “Tharpanam”, etc. correctly without any fail, again we’re ticking all the right boxes to move forward. Similarly, if we’re able to help those people who are in dire need, again we’re making a good progress towards the path of Dharma.

Thus in all these above examples, we can observe that we might know all these at hindsight, but somehow we fail to tick all these boxes owing to certain reasons, only best known to us! 😊 Thus, knowing all of these is not important. The awareness that these simple tasks would lead us towards the path of spiritual growth is important. Once we become aware of it, we would automatically start doing things that are required to be done. The point here is thus, awareness of those tasks that would lead us to the path of Dharma is very important. Once this awareness creeps into us, we would definitely start witnessing the change that is required.

This is exactly what Sage Pauranika is also going to tell all his disciples. Now let us witness the reply of Sage Pauranika to his disciples.

“Vaasudeve bhagawathi bhakti yogaha prayojithaha!

Janayatyaashu vairaagyam gnyaanam cha ya dahaithukam!!”

Thus Sage Pauraanika starts his reply by saying that, the lack of “Bhakti” or “Devotion” towards Bhagawan is only because of lack of awareness. Even in our case, why are we not able to attain that deep state of “Bhakti” towards Bhagawan? It is only because we do not know the complete significance of Bhagawan and His incarnations.

Now how will we get this awareness in us? It is only if we read and re-read about Bhagawan and His significance repeatedly. It is only if we listen and listen to various discourses about Bhagawan and His significance. It is only if we discuss about Bhagawan and His significance. Only then, would we be able to witness significant progress in Bhakti. If we’re having zero knowledge about something, how would we be able to appreciate it? For instance, I’m a Carnatic vocalist, and I’ve been asked to give a concert with a theme of “Thiyagaraja Kritis”. At the end of the concert, usually someone would come up on the stage, give a “vote of thanks” and appreciate the singer who has performed the concert. This is an usual practice. Now, if this person who comes on to the stage is a boxer or a football player, what would he talk about in this context? This person doesn’t even know A or B or C in Carnatic Music and how would he be able to talk and appreciate it? Similar is our case with respect to Bhakti as well!

Thus the important point here is that, for real growth and development of Bhakti and spirituality, we should first inculcate the awareness of Bhagawan and His teachings to this world. So for today, let us ponder over this important point and try to work on this slowly and steadily. We shall wait till tomorrow’s episode to witness more of Sage Pauraanika’s reply to his disciples. Stay tuned! 😊

In the previous episode, we had witnessed a very important question to start up with the contents of the first Skanda of Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana. We officially commence from the episode of Sage Pauraanika, wherein he gives some valuable pieces of information that is important to all of us too. To begin with, his disciples who are seated around him at a place called Naimishaaranya, ask an important question about the life in Kali Yuga and how difficult is it going to be for people who are spiritual seekers. This is extremely relevant to all of us and we shall witness the reply from Sage Pauraanika in today’s episode. As his disciples ask him this question, Sage Pauraanika replies thus:

“Praayena alpaayushas-sabdhya kalaavasmin yuge janaaha!

Mandaahaassumandha mathayaha mandha bhaagyaah kyupad druthaaha!!”

Sage Pauraanika commences thus, “Oh disciples! You’ve asked an important question. As we’re in the starting phase of this Kali Yuga, I shall explain and add few more points to whatever you’ve said till now: In the upcoming Kali Yuga, as we progress further and further and as years roll by, people’s life span would start becoming lesser and lesser. Even within this short lifespan, it is going to be very hard for people to focus on spirituality and spiritual growth, owing to innumerable factors of disturbances. The surrounding environment and society in which people live are never going to be conducive for developing spiritual thoughts. Both physical and mental health of people in their short lifespan are also going to be on the decline. However, there would be some people who would try to walk the hard path of Bhakti (Devotion) towards Bhagawan. But it is not going to be easy for them too. Something “hard” would be pushing them again and again to the brink!”

It is to be noted that in the previous Yugas of Trethaa, Dvaapara Yuga, etc. lifespans of people were extremely long. For instance, we’ve witnessed during our Ramayana project that Bhagawan Rama ruled Ayodhya for more than 11,000 years. King Dasharata had ruled Ayodhya for more than 20,000 years! In fact, Valmiki Maharishi even emphasizes in many places that King Dasharata was childless for more than 16,000 years, before Bhagawan Rama was born! Of course, there might be some disputes in the method of calculation of days, months and years, but that is not important for us at this moment. Thus from all these examples, we can witness how people in those ages have had extremely long lifespans! Even in these long lifespans, people had that interest in spiritual growth and the environment in which they lived, was totally conducive for it. We’ve witnessed in the Valimiki Ramayana towards the end on how “Rama-Rajya” was!

However, this is not the same in today’s case! We hardly have 70-90 years of time within us, and in most of our cases, we spend even this short time duration in various other activities that never add any value to our spiritual pursuit. Now how do we manage this short time-frame and how do we learn to progress spiritually within this?

Saying thus, Sage Pauraanika says that in this seemingly tough Kali Yuga, there is a solace for all of us. He continues further thus,

“Devakyaanaam vasudevasya jaathoyasya chikeershayaa!”

Thus Sage Pauraanika explains here that if we are able to chant the names of Bhagawan Krishna in the Kali Yuga repeatedly with full focus, we shall be able to attain spiritual growth. Apart from Bhagawan’s divine names, we have the Vedas, Vishnu Sahasranaama, Lalitha Sahasranaama, Upanishads, etc. that can augment our pursuit towards Bhagawan.

Having said thus, we would immediately ask a question here – “Oh! These are seemingly quite easy for all of us to do! But the real question here is that, will we be able to do it? Moreover, will we be able to overcome those obstacles that are trying to pull us down every now and then, when we sit down to chant Bhagawan’s divine names?”

These are extremely valid questions. All of us have these questions in mind. Even in our daily lives, many of us, (or) almost all of us are never atheists! All of us are inclined towards Bhagawan in some way or the other. However, “sustainability” in our approach is the problem that all of us face. If today we take a resolve that we would focus ourselves on spiritual practices from this moment onwards, how many of us would be able to continue the practices for the coming days, weeks, months, etc. without a break? Just within few days, we would get some disturbance or the other and with that, we would gradually forget our resolve and revert back to our lazy routine. Moreover, in this short lifespan too, many of us might have health problems that might deter us from performing our spiritual practices. Even if we can have that resolve to overcome our health problems and still continue doing it, is our environment and surroundings conducive enough to encourage / motivate us to follow our resolve? The answer is “Never”! If people see us this way, they immediately “brand” us as “old-fashioned people” and “unaware people”! This again would hurt our ego and slowly we would come out of our resolve, isn’t it? Moreover, in today’s world, many people are creating a new “renaissance” that the principles explained in our “Sanaathana Dharma” are not true! Many of us sadly fall into this trap of false propaganda!

This is the nature of the Kali Yuga in which we are living! All these characteristics are being witnessed by us in today’s world, which have been explained by Sage Pauraanika at the end of the Dvaapara Yuga and during the commencement of the Kali Yuga itself!

So for today, let us give a thought on what’s happening currently around us and how are we getting demotivated every now and then from going the spiritual path. Before going any further, let us first perform an analysis within ourselves as to what are the ways in which we get disturbed every day and what are those aspects that keep “pegging us” back from the track of spiritual progress. We shall wait till the next episode to witness some solutions to these issues. Stay tuned! 😊

In the previous episode, we had extended the discussion on why learning Sanskrit and Tamil languages are extremely important for all of us to gain an in-depth understanding of our Sanaathana Dharma texts. Coupled with the language skills and ability, we spoke about how “patience” also goes hand-in-hand to achieve this goal of ours. Even though we might not understand certain aspects that are explained in our spiritual texts due to their complex nature, we still need to exhibit patience and perseverance to try and break down the complexity. As we move higher and higher spiritually, we should make a conscious effort to try and understand what has been written by exhibiting enormous amounts of patience and dedication. Of course, to start with, we should atleast have the patience to sit through a spiritual discourse or to read through a content that we feel is complex, so that, we would be able to understand something somewhere. In this level, even if we’re able to grasp 10% of what is being said or what is written, it is a great achievement for all of us! This 10% of our understanding should be ensured in such a way that we’re getting it in-depth, so that we can try and implement those principles in our daily lives. By doing so, we would definitely be able to witness a change in our life in the positive direction. If we’re able to materialize this in our lives, it also means that we’re progressing slowly towards actual spiritual growth.

Of course, many of us might feel certain principles from our Sanaathana Dharma unacceptable to the form of life that we are doing today. Some of those principles might be even poking and triggering our ego so much, that we would not be able to digest them. Whatever might happen, we should never take a step back and start relenting from our pursuit. The moment we take a step backwards, we should always be cautious that we’re progressing backwards from spiritual growth, which defeats our ultimate aim. Moreover, if we take a step back, it would make us to take several steps backwards, and at one stage, it would become extremely difficult for us to come back into the track. We should not let such a situation to happen in our lives. Whatever might be the situation, we should be stealthy in terms of patience and perseverance towards attaining our goal.

Now moving on with the commencement with the contents of the first Skanda of the Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana, we’re now going to witness an interesting section to begin with. Sage Sukhaachaarya commences his narration to King Parikshit with this particular incident. What is this? Let’s have a look!

“Naimishe animishakshetre rishayaha shounakaadayaha!

Satram svargaaya lookaaya sahasra samamaasatha!!”

Here, Sage Sukhaachaarya talks about a beautiful geographical location – A place called “Naimishaaranya”, which can be worshipped even today in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, some 100 kilometers away from its capital city of Lucknow. Many of you might have had the opportunity to visit this beautiful place. The specialty of this place is that, Bhagawan does not exist in the usual idol form. The scenic beauty of this place, or the picturesque landscape of this place is itself considered to be a manifestation of Bhagawan Krishna here. There is a beautiful river that flows through this place, amidst a forest full of trees on either side and this river contains fresh water. It is at this place, there is a big banyan tree. Beneath that huge banyan tree is sitting Sage Pauraanika. His original name was Sutha-Pauraanika. He was the son of Sage Romaharshana. Surrounding Sage Pauraanika, there are many of his disciples seated, to listen to his advice on various aspects of spirituality and other important aspects.

It is to be remembered that this incident is happening at the beginning of this Kali Yuga. As Sage Pauraanika is seated along with his disciples, there comes a question from one of them to Sage Pauraanika as the discussion between them moves forward. The question goes thus: “Oh Sage! Now we’re at the beginning of this Kali Yuga and it is projected to be one of the worst Yugas’ that the world has gone through ever since it’s inception. Everywhere we’re witnessing sins gaining pace and prominence. People are not worried about doing anything wrong. People are going to any extent to fulfil their selfishness. Thus in this tough world, is there any way to accustom our life into the path of “Dharma”? Given so many difficulties, all of us find it very difficult to walk the path of “Dharma”. On one hand you’re saying that we’re taking birth in this world to wash away all our sins. But looking at the way things are going in this Kali Yuga, we’re only ending up accumulating more and more sins. In no way are we getting to experience “Punya” (Goodness). Thus, is there a way through with we can find solace from the atrocities of this Kali Yuga and to focus on the Dharma that Bhagawan has prescribed?”

This discussion, as I’ve mentioned before happens at a place called “Naimishaaranya”. This, our readers might remember very well, is the place wherein the Ramayana was born! It is here that Bhagawan Rama’s two little sons Lava and Kusha are singing the slokas from the Ramayana text in front of Bhagawan Rama Himself. This “Kshetra” (Holy place) is a must visit place for all of us. Moreover, this place is called as “Animisha-Kshetra” in the above-mentioned sloka. This means, if we mark our presence in that place even for a minute, and spend that one minute in focusing on Bhagawan, all our sins would be washed away at that very instance! Hence, this is an important “Kshetra” for all of us to visit. Of course, many of us might have already been there. However for others, if you get an opportunity, please make it a point to visit this great place.

Thus the question from the disciples have come to Sage Pauraanika. Now what is going to be the reply from Sage Pauraanika? We shall wait till the next episode to find out! Stay tuned! 😊

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the importance of learning and understanding Sanskrit and Tamil languages. Why do we emphasize on this point at this stage? It is to be remembered that all our scriptural texts of the Sanaathana Dharma are mostly either in these two languages. If we take the main texts, starting from the Vedas, Upanishads, epics like Shrimad Ramayana, Mahabharata, Puraanas such as Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana, etc. all of these are authored by various Maharishis in Sanskrit language. Similarly, the famous Tevaram, Tiruvaasagam, Dhivya-Prabhandham, etc. are composed by the Aalwaars, Naayanmaars, etc. in Tamil. Hence, if we’ve to have an in-depth understanding of all of these scriptural texts, somewhere we would need the skill of comprehending Sanskrit and Tamil languages. It is to be noted that all of the essence from these texts cannot be derived through foreign languages like English. Of course, to an extent we can, and this is how we’re trying to reach out to many more readers everyday across the world through this blog. Of course, English can link the world under a one common language platform and thus we can reach out to many more people across the world. But somewhere down the line, we need to develop atleast the basic skills of understanding and comprehending these two important languages. I’m not asking ourselves to develop poetic skills, but we should atleast satisfy a bare minimum requirement of being able to understand things to a certain extent.

I understand that it is not easy for many of our readers who are not from India, but if we certainly make an effort in the right direction, geography and ethnicity can never be barriers. In my four-year stint in Europe, I’ve witnessed many European people being experts in Indian languages such as Tamil, Hindi, Sanskrit, etc. along with expertise in Indian classical art forms such as music and dance. Hence, the message from this important offshoot discussion is that, geography, ethnicity, culture and other factors should not become barriers for our spiritual development. All of us are an inclusive part of this great Mother Earth, and let us be proud of this fact.

Having said thus, for the moment even if many of us might not be able to understand and comprehend the slokas, as we move forward, it is better to read through the slokas and recite them. This is more important than the English content that would follow after every sloka, as we’ve witnessed in the earlier episodes that Bhagawan Krishna resides inside the Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana, which comprises ONLY of slokas from head to toe!

Moreover, in the modern day, we have a bad practice – As we move ahead with time and in today’s world of “urgency” in everything that we do, we’ve started to lack patience in general. Especially for spiritual gatherings like these, if a person tries to explain something from our Sanaathana Dharma, even though it might initially be complex for us to understand and comprehend, we should have the basic patience and courtesy to listen to that person for some time and see if we can really comprehend what he / she is trying to tell us. This is a very important virtue that all of us should possess, if we’ve to gain a better understanding of spirituality. If we start losing interest within just 2-3 minutes of a spiritual discourse or while reading spiritual content like what we’re trying to explain, there is no point in calling ourselves as ardent followers of Sanaathana Dharma. Let us for a moment relate this point with what we do every day – Most of us have done our education right from school till an under graduation in a college. Some of us might have even done a post-graduation and even a PhD! Thus in all these years of education, have we finished our degrees with 100% understanding of all what were taught to us in classrooms? It is highly impossible isn’t it? In due course of our degree completion, there might have been few or even many subjects that we’ve dreaded to just “pass” them out, isn’t it? 😊 If we’re still able to tolerate that dreaded feeling with utmost patience, why can’t we apply that same patience here also and try to understand atleast a little bit of what Sage Sukhaachaarya, Valmiki Maharishi, Sage Veda Vyaasa are trying to explain here? In such complex explanations given by these saints, it would definitely be a great achievement for us even if we understand a meagre 1-2 % of what they’ve said. It would be even more a greater achievement if we can put this 1-2 % of our understanding into practice in our daily lives! This is where our primary focus should be.

Thus the point here is that, it is not important as to how much understanding do we get out of these spiritual texts. The most important point here is that, whatever little we’ve understood – Have we understood it properly or not, and are we trying to follow whatever we’ve understood or not. Bhagawan has created us and this beautiful world for all of us to live in. For what has He done all this? It is only to make us realize that we’re loaded with our “Karma” (both good and bad) and this birth is an opportunity to wash all of our Karma, so as to finally attain His feet. But the real question here is that, are we realizing this purpose. If we’re not even having the patience to experience Bhagawan for 2-3 minutes continuously, then how are we going to achieve the underlying bigger cause of our birth? It is thus important for us to understand this very strongly, and try to develop our level of patience in experiencing Sanaathana Dharma.

Of course, I do understand that many things that are explained in our scriptures are complex in nature. This is why we are trying to break down the complex things into simpler ideas for our easier understanding. For this, we require some level of patience. Therefore through this point, I would like to request all our esteemed readers from all over the world to develop this important virtue called “patience”, so as to sit down and read through whatever we’re writing here. Even if we can spend 15-20 minutes a day in reading through, thinking over and understanding, we can go a long way towards Bhagawan.

So for today, let us realize this basic point and do the needful. We shall wait till the next episode to continue this discussion further and gradually move into the contents of this great text. Stay tuned! 😊

 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the continuation of our discussion on few selected and important “Dhyaana Slokas”, which establish and re-establish the sacredness and the divine significance of this great text called Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana. In that sequence, the last episode saw discussions on couple of slokas wherein we established the fact that even if we’re able to read, understand, comprehend and implement the contents of one sloka out of the several thousands of slokas, this itself is one of the greatest achievements that we can do in our life! Hence, it is imperative that it is our bound duty as ardent followers of our “Sanaathana Dharma” to spend time and focus on this great text. Secondly, we also witnessed that at places where there are no chants of Bhagawath slokas and “Puraanas”, and at places that are devoid of talks about Bhagawan’s greatness, Bhagawan Krishna ceases to exist. This is an important sign of warning for all of us that whatever we do in life, we should definitely allocate some time for Bhagawan every day. We should make sure that we sing His praises, read about Him, talk about Him, enjoy His bliss and understand how does His grace works.

So with this accord in detail, we shall now witness what this text called Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana offers us. We shall commence our discussion from the first “Skandha” from now. I’m sure that our readers are now familiar with the structure of this text and would be having a brief idea of what are we going to talk about in each of the seven parts. With this basic knowledge, we shall now move into the contents of the first Skandha. I shall touch upon few important slokas all through the way as we discuss the contents in detail. It should be noted that all the 18,000 slokas of the Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana are in Sanskrit only. Here, one can ask immediately here as to why do we have to witness the slokas, given that we do not have adequate knowledge in the Sanskrit language and why don’t we just witness the messages and the meanings of these slokas only. It should be remembered that Bhagawan Krishna has mentioned that He is present in the Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana, in the form of slokas only. Hence, if we’ve to feel the presence of Bhagawan Krishna, we’ve got no option but to look into the slokas that are in Sanskrit. Of course, we’re going to see all the descriptions and inferences in English. But having said that, not everything in this world and especially in our Sanaathana Dharma literature can be fully experienced in English alone. Moreover, we’ve to accept the hard fact that English is a foreign language and is not conducive to understand and appreciate the significance of certain aspects in our Sanaathana Dharma literature. However, because of various reasons, we would try and witness all explanations in English, along with the slokas that are in Sanskrit. This would give us the double benefit of understanding the meaning and also to invoke the presence of Bhagawan Krishna along with us as we read through. Thus for readers, even though we might not understand the slokas upright, it is always good to read through the slokas as we read the other English contents in each episode. This is a mandatory requirement as we move into the text.

But having said that, all of us, as ardent followers of our Sanaathana Dharma should make a conscious effort of learning Sanskrit and / or Tamil languages. This is also a mandatory thing as we move on, because, not everything can be understood and appreciated in English and other foreign languages. We need the basic knowledge of either Sanskrit or Tamil to understand and experience the divinity of our Sanaathana Dharma Literature, because all of these texts are in either of these two languages. Hence, it is always better for us to learn these ancient languages so that we can appreciate the significance of our Sanaathana Dharma literature more. Thus, the message from this part of the discussion is that, we’ve to first look into the main sloka, and it is only from there, we should derive the meanings, contents and the messages. This is how we follow the path of “Dharma” that Bhagawan has laid down for us to reach the ultimate “Moksha”.

Hence for today, let us understand this important fact as we move on and in the next episode, we shall straightaway jump into the contents of the first Skandha of the Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana. Stay tuned! 😊

 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed an important description of how the Bhaagawatha Puraana text is divided into seven major parts (“Saptaaham”) for easy comprehending purpose. We had witnessed in detail, the contents of each part and a short description of each of it. From now, we shall commence our discussion on the contents of the first part. As always, we shall keep the discussion as lucid as possible, so that all of us can understand and comprehend it easily. However, if there are further questions or queries, readers can feel free to write to me at any time.

Having said thus, even if we understand the contents of the text, it is important not to just read it and close it off. We need to recollect these points again and again in our mind, ponder over it and try to understand the implications of these points in our daily life. This is how we would be able to grasp the real essence of what we’re discussing here. Of course, due to lack of time and other constraints, we might not be able to reinforce all points repeatedly and it is up to the readers to reinforce within themselves and implement them in our routine life.

Moreover, we should also remember that wherever and whenever we are reciting this Bhaagawatha Puraana, Bhagawan Krishna will always mark His presence at that particular time and that particular place. If Bhagawan Krishna is arriving at that spot, all the Devas (Celestial Beings) would also make it a point to be present at that venue. They require no invitation! 😊 They would always be present wherever Bhagawan is present! Even if we look at the sequence of events when Sage Sukhaachaarya was narrating this to King Parikshit, all the Devas were present at that venue to listen to his words. Such is the specialty of this great Puraana.

“Slokaartham slokapaadam vaa param bhaagawatham grihe!

Shatashotasi sahasraischa himanyayihi shaasthra sangrahaihi!!”

This is a beautiful sloka that brings out the significance of this Bhaagawatha Puraana text. It says that even if one couldn’t recite all the 18,000 slokas of the 12 Skandaas in the Bhaagawatha Puraana, it is never a problem! He / she could recite atleast one Skanda with dedication. This would be more than enough! Even if one doesn’t have the time and knowledge to recite that one Skandha, atleast one Adhyaaya can be recited. Even if one doesn’t have the time and knowledge to recite that one Adhyaaya, it is still fine! One can recite just one sloka from any Adhyaaya and this would be of immense bliss. Even if one doesn’t have the time and knowledge to recite one full sloka, he / she can recite atleast half a sloka or even a phrase of a sloka with utmost sincerity and dedication. This itself would melt Bhagawan Krishna’s heart, as we’ve witnessed before, He Himself is present in this great text in an immortal non-physical form. So even if we recite one phrase of a sloka from Bhaagawatha Puraana, it is like experiencing a portion of Bhagawan Krishna and His infinite love and grace. Such is the significance of this great Puraana. Thus as we move on, it is not important as to how many slokas we understand and learn. Even if we focus on just one sloka properly with utmost sincerity and dedication and make a sincere effort to implement the message that the sloka conveys in our day-to-day life, this itself is a great achievement! This itself would take us a step closer to Bhagawan Krishna.

“Nayasya thishtate shaastram griheeyam bhaagawatham kalau!

Na tasya punaraavritthihi yam ya paashaath kathaa cha na!!”

Here through this sloka, Bhagawan Krishna again proclaims thus: “In those places where my prayers are not offered and slokas are not recited, I will never be in any form!” This should come as a warning to all of us. It is thus imperative that we focus our attention in learning about Bhagawan, talk about Him, discuss about Him with our peers, chant His slokas, prayers, etc. This is extremely important. The moment we start doing all of these, Bhagawan needs no invitation! He would come automatically towards us, just like how a bunch of iron pieces would align towards a magnet when it comes close!

Of course, one may ask a counter question here – Oh! On one hand we say that we should not talk much or gossip with others and on the other hand we say that we should talk and gossip! Which should we follow? Here, we should understand that, if we talk, it should be about Bhagawan. If we gossip, it should be about Bhagawan. If we discuss, it should be about Bhagawan. But do we do this in our daily lives? We keep talking about someone from some corner of the world – His positives, his negatives, why is he like this, etc. But little do we realize that all these kinds of talks are going to lead us nowhere. But if we talk about the greatness of Bhagawan all the time, we can be sure that we are automatically sending an invitation to Bhagawan to come to us and take us with him to Moksha! 😊

Thus for today, as we move on into the contents of Day 1, let us realize that it is imperative for all of us to read, enjoy, relish, understand and implement all what Sage Sukhaachaarya has given to us in the form of Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana. Let us slowly try and cut down our unwanted activities that we do in a day, and try to slowly focus on what is useful for us to attain Moksha. We shall wait till the next episode to commence the narrative of Sage Sukhaachaarya as we complete the Dhyaana Slokas. Stay tuned! 😊