P.Natarajan.

The Wonder Number  :

We can find many special sevens from seven wonders of the world to seven days in a week . In this way, seven is considered to be a lucky number too.

1. Windows 7 is a remarkable release of Windows series of operating systems from Microsoft. It is simpler to use, more responsive, and full of new possibilities.

2. There are 7 visible planets and luminaries -  Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn.

3. We are now in the 7th Manvantara in VAIVASVATHA MANU which is an astronomical period of Time Measurement.  Manu+Antara where Antara means duration of Manu. Each Manvantara lasts the life time of Manu upon whose death Brahma creates another Manu to continue the cycle of Shrishti. Vishnu on his part takes a new avatar and also new Indra and Saptarishis are appointed. ' Vaivasvatha Manu ' is the name of the present Manu. 14 Manvantaras make up a KALPA measuring 'Day of Brahma'.The period following the Day of Brahma and lasting one more Kalpa would be the 'Night of Brahma'  (this is just to give an idea of Manvantara, the astronomical Time period.)

4. Saptarishi Mandala (Sapta in Sanskrit means 7) - the celestial group of Seven Stars is based on seven great Rishis who keep changing for every Yuga. The current Saints are :- Atri, Bhirgu, Kutsa, Vasishta, Gautama, Kasyapa and  Angirasa.

5. Tirupathi Sri Venkatachalapathy's  abode is 7 Hills in Tirumala and hence called as 'EZHUMALAYAN' ( Ezhu in Tamil represents the N0.7 ).

6. The Seven Virgin Mountain range is in SRI-Lanka.

7.  ' 7 Virtues ' are chastity, temperance, charity, diligence, kindness, patience and humility.

8. Sir Isac Newton identified 7 colors of the Rainbow - widely described as 'VIBGYOR'

9. SAPTASWARA -  sa re ga ma pa dha ni  -  are the basics of music using which hundreds of ragas are composed.

10. 7 Modern Wonders of the World (#American society of Civil Engineers) :-

(i) Channel Tunnel located @ Strait of Dover between UK and France, is a undersea rail tunnel 50.5K.M. long.

(ii) CN Tower in Toronto ( Ontario ) , Canada

(iii) Empire State Building, New York, NY.,

(iv) Golden Gate Bridge in  Golden Gate Strait in North of San Francisco, California

(v) Itaipu Dam in Parana River between Brazil and Paraguay

(vi) Delta Works / Zudiderzee Works in Netherlands

(vii) Panama Canal @ Isthmus of Panama which is a narrow strip of land between the Carrebian Sea and Pacific Ocean.

11. Almost all mammals have 7 cervical vertebrate.

12. 7 is a neutral pH value between acidity and alkalinity.

13. 7 is the atomic number of Nitrogen

14. US declared independence day in 7th month of 1776.  note the two sevens in 1776).

15. 7 is the calling code of Russia.

1.6 'The Sevens'-  is a rugby union stadium in Dubai.

17. A 7 sided shape is called a heptagon. UK has two heptagonal coins , the 50paise and 20paise pieces. The 1000 KWACHA Coin of Zambia is a true heptagon !

18. BMW 7 series (German) is a flagship range of luxury vehicles in the automobile industry.

19. 7 - has some say with Roman Empire too.  Romulus was the first King who was also the founder of the City . Numa Pompilius, Tullus Hostilius, Ancus Marcius, Lucius Tarquius succeeded him one after the other. 7th and last King was Lucius Tarqius Superbus when  fall of Roman empire happened. Brutus and Colla Finus became roman first consul until the rise of Julius Caesar.

20. 7 Minutes is a novel by Irving Wallace.

21.007 is the secret code of James bond;

22. 'Seven (7) of Nine' is a character in Star Trek;

23, Snow White and 7 Dwarfs is a Disney Film ; 7 Brides for 7 Brothers is a hit musical comedy release in 1954;  7 year Itch is a Marilyn Monroe Film (1955) , famous for her white dress bellowing up from a grate.

24. 7 is said to be the most powerfully magical number in Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling.

25. 7 is New York city subway service

26. 7 Jeans is a brand of designer Jeans

27. The 7 Chakras are the Energy Centers in our body in which Energy flows. Block in any Chakra causes illness. Exercise and diet will help in removing the block and balancing the Chakras for a healthy living.

28. 7- Lokas (Worlds), 7-incarnations(births), 7- Deadly Sins, etc., are all connected with mythology.. A Sanskrit verse which aptly fits in to show how the Number 7(Saptha refers 7 in Sanskrit) joins in Mythological description, comes to my mind:-

Saptharnvas saptha kulachalacha

Saptharishaya dwipavanani saptha !

Bhoorathiloka bhuvanani saptha

kurvanthu sarve mama suprabhatham !!

29. 7 Steps viz 'Saptapati'  which the newly weds take around the holy fire after tying the 'Mangalya Sutra'. They also take oath to lead a harmonious life together by pronouncing a mantra at each step of the seven steps.

30. Long Live 7 as the Number joins to describe the ' Siranjeevees ' also.

The term 'Siranjeevee' describes a person who lives for ever. The 7 names of the ' Siranjeevees '  figure in the Sanskrit Verse which  follows below:-

Aswathama Balirvyasaha HanumanchaVibhishinaha !

KrupahaParasuramacha Sapthaithe Siranjeevinaha !!

31. To conclude this ' 7special ' sportingly, I am including the result of the Championship match which ended on a Monday, a day after the scheduled date :-

Rafael Nadal won his RECORD 7TH (SEVENTH) French Open Title on Monday, the 11th June 2012. He denied Novak DJokavic in his own run at history, the quest for ' Novak-Slam '. Rafa won 6-4, 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 when novak double faulted his own service, thus surrendering his quest.. Enjoy reading the verse below:-

Rain or Shine, Clay, Grass or Mud, Sunday or Monday !

Rafael Nadal, the Spaniard, Rules Roland Garros in France !!

Nadal and number seven goes very much well in Sun or Rain !!!!

pn

The Superlative ' 9 ' !

P.Natarajan.

The Superlative Number :-

I have written in my Blog recently about 9 Forms of Worship. The Number 9 figures or decorates in many other forms.  I have presented those which come in my mind below:-

1) Symphony 9 of Beethoven is the best known works of Western Classical Repertoire !

2) 'A cato'nine tails ' is a multitailed whip used to implement severe punishment in Judiciary, Navy and Army in U.K.

3) 9 - A term used to indicate purity of metals and chemicals.

4) "K-9" pronouncing same as canine denotes the police dog unit in U.S.

5) 9 - New York Subway service

6) Ninth Avenue is a major avenue in Manhattan

7) US Route 9 from New York to Delaware

8) A human pregnancy normally lasts 9 months.

9) The 9 on Yahoo features nine top web finds of the day!

10) A Polygon with nine sides is known as Nanagon.

11) 9 is the atomic number of  Florin. ( a chemical ).

12) 9-bhava or rasa in Natya Sastra:- pleasure, smile, pity, anger, chivalry, fear, hate, wonder and shanta

13)  Sacred 9 rivers - Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswathy, Godavari, Sarayu, Narmada, Kaveri, Palar, Kumari

14) Nine metals (Nava Ratnas)- Gold, Silver, Mercury, Copper,  Iron,  Tin, Zinc, Nickel  & Antimony,

15) Nine Abhishekas to Deities:- Turmeric, Panjamritham, Milk, Ghee, Honey, Curd,  Sugar, Sandal Paste, Vibhuthi

16) Agni kunta :- There are Nine Patterns or formats of Agni kuntas for performing yaha.

17)Navaratnas - The govt. of India have classified PSUs that have comparative advantages as Navaratna companies such as Coal India, SAIL, BHEL and so on.

18) Nine Vratas -  Somavara vrata, Thiruvona, Umamaheswara, Sivarathri, Pradosha, Kethara, Rishabha, Kaliyanachandra and Soola Vrata

19) The Characteristic Nines -  kindness, pleasant, truthful, benedictory, tenderness, meditation, keeping time, august presence, Mouna(Quiet)

20) Nine Forms of Worship -  Sravana, Keertan, Smarana, Padasevana,  Archana, Vandana, Dasya, Sakkya, Atmanivedana

pn

P.Natarajan.

Srimad Bhagavatham - Skanda 1 - Chapter 8 (contd.) - ((Source: Sri Sri Sri Velukudi Swmay's writings in recent Tamil Weekly Thuglak)
'A Rousing Welcome for  Krishna  in  Dwaraka' !   -   (Also)
Chapter 9  - ' The Birth Of Parikshith '

We saw the end of Kurushetra war and the beginning of 'Dharma Rajya' in Hastinapura when Krishna takes leave from there for his abode at Dwaraka. As Krishna enters Dwarakapuri, people sang in chorus in praise of Krishna:-

Bhavaaya Nastvam Bhava Viswa Paavana
Tvameve Maata  Athasuhrut Pati: Pitaa\
Tvam Satguru: Na Parmancha Daivatam
Yasyanu Vrutyaa Kritinopa Bhuvima \\

"He Kanna! Thou art our Father; Thou art our dear Mother; Thou art our illustrious Guru; You are our sole deity. It's  Impossible for us to live without you; Where were you all these days, not revealing your graceful eyes, beautiful eyebrows, impressive neck, broad chest and feet where all surrender in implicit faith?

Krishna was moved by the devotion of the people of Dwaraka and embraced all of them affectionately without any discrimination and inquired about their welfare. Krishna's action exhibited that all are equal before God and He shows no difference between the Jivatmas. When people gather at DWARAKA for worship, there are no separate queue for the rich or the poor. Krishna protects all as 'Govardana Giridhari'. But there is one difference - the women folk take the place in the front row and men behind them only. Kanna's preference is always first for women only because ' It is they  as the Gopikas, lived only for the sake of dear Gopala ! '

Sukacharya brings out beautifully in Bhagavatha Purana :- " The dark clouds in the sky spread all over is a treat to the eyes - The Moon or the sun at times stand as decoration to the sky - The rainbow adds to the beauty once in a way - The stars twinkle brilliantly in the night emitting cool rays  from the sky.  Lightning  when it strikes adds picturesque glitters to the  dark sky -  Krishna gave a similar appearance -' How apt it is that He himself shone in 'Neelamegha shyamala varna'. The White Umbrella which the devotees held over his head looked like the Sun. The fans used by them was akin to the cool and pleasant moon. The Tulsi garland around his neck along with other colorful flowers gave the semblance of a rainbow, The bunch of flowers which the Devas and Rishis showered sparkled like the twinkling stars. The silk garment around his shoulders appeared as lightning, spreading a glow on his face. Naked eyes of humans could not see all those - Deep meditation is the basic requirement to visualize these!

Kannan entered his Kingdom and embraced warmly the mothers and wives and showed his affection. People beheld Krishna as one of them which illustrates their love for him. A doubt may arise that when a brilliant precious Stone falls into mud, it might lose its luster - likewise when Krishna takes avatar like a man, will not the blemishes in the Earth affect him. Certainly not as His Avatar as a Human is not on account of Karma but it is his 'Sankalpa' or "Wish' on the premise of 'Sambhavami Yuge Yuge'. It becomes abundantly clear that Sri Krishna lived with the people in Dwaraka as one of them without losing his uniqueness and at the same time found happiness within him as well as in his fellow-beings

Chapter 9 - The Birth of Parikshith:-

Sounaka and other Rishis wished to know from Suta Pouranika the details about the Birth of Parikshith, his childhood and how he gained knowledge from the teachings of Sukacharya.and finally met his death by a snake bite.

Suta began the narration:- " Dharmaputra was ruling the country, praised by scholars as a golden era,  bringing prosperity and abundance to all. Uttara was in advanced  stage of pregnancy when the astra aimed by Aswathama  entered the womb to destroy the embryo. Krishna recognizing the grave and impending disaster shrunk his size equal to that of a thumb and entered the womb where Parikshith, the child was in a state of danger. Lord Krishna enveloped Parikshith with his graceful body and was circling inside and used his Sudharshana Chakra to counteract  the astra aimed by Aswathama. As the time of birth neared, the child was born lifeless as a tiny piece of  black wood. Krishna gave life to the child by stroking his foot over the child. The astrologers were in utter dismay after seeing the child becoming alive. Since the child was born out of the sheer Grace of Krishna and his life was saved by none other than Lord Vishnu, it earned the name as 'Visnuradhan'. People started wondering at the glow of the child and expressed loudly that it was Pandu reborn again as the child.

Parikshith as a Name was most appropriate to the child according to the Devas and Rishis:-

(1) Parith: + Ekshanam = Parikshith -Sanskrit meaning - paritha: means going around and round; Ekshanam means Protection - Bhagavan protected the child in the womb by going round and round.
(2) When the child was born, it went round and round to examine (Parikshith means to examine)  who had protected it to come alive.
The birth of Parikshith was considered significant from these angles.

Parikshith Maharaja ruled Hastinapura in an orderly manner. There was respect for every one under his rule. He performed many 'yajnas'. He was able to control even the 'Kalipurusha'.

It was unfortunate that Parikshith incurred the displeasure of a Rishi Kumara by name Sringi who cursed Parikshith that he would meet with his death within seven days by the bite of a deadly snake. But before it happened, Sukacharya whom Parikshith had not known or seen would preach Srimad Bhagavatha Purana to him within those seven (last) days of his life. This would benefit the whole world and its people - these predictions were made at the time of his birth by great Astrologers which proved to be true later and was witnessed as a reality !

Parikshith's hearing the Bhagavatha Purana in seven days happened and  we received  the sacred 'Srimad Bhagavatham'  as a special and never the less as an extraordinary gift.

pn

' Nine Forms of Worship ' - Illustrated

Saturday, June 16, 2012

' Nine Forms of Worship ' - Illustrated

P.Natarajan,
 
Today (16 June,2012) being a ' Sanipradosham day ',  prompts me to start writing this article. It is believed that all the Devas & Gods are assembled in Shiva temples during Pradosham time which is same as ' Sandhya Kala '. Further the first pradosham (Krishnapaksha Trayodasi - when Shiva performed the cosmic dance after swallowing the Halahala - poison was on a Saturday, hence ' Sanipradosham '  is considered even more auspicious.
 
This article deals about Nine forms of worship with illustrations. They are (1) Sravana, (2) Keerthana, (3) Smarana, (4) Padasevana, (5) Archana, (6) Vandana, (7)  Dasya , (8) Sakhya, (9) Atmanivedana.

(1) Sravana :- Parikshith Maharaja who was cursed by a Rishi Kumara called Sringi that he would meet his death within seven days by a snake bite, heard 'Srimad Bhagavatham' during those (last) seven days and reached the God's feet. Another well-known illustration for the significance of worship by 'Sravana' is in Bhaktha Prahalada who when he was in the womb itself  heard (sravana) the name of 'Narayana' and obtained God's Grace as a child.

(2) Keerthana:- Narada stands as a classic example for singing the praise of Narayana wherever he went. His lips was always uttering 'Narayana, Narayana..nama.' when his Veena, in his hand, was in tune with his song (Keerthana).

(3) Smarana:- Smarana refers to concentrating the form of God's image in the mind and describing the form in the mind itself in line with known slokas or stotras. Poosalar Nayanar is one of the famous 63 Siva Saints who wished to build a temple for Shiva. He was very poor and sought donations from the public but it went without any response. Poosalar Nayanar decided to build the Shiva Temple in his mind itself. He first made the foundation in his mind and went on to the next stages one by one. Ultimately he was able to complete the temple in a good shape in his mind itself (Smarana). He also decided to perform the consecration of his newly built temple in the mind and  was determined to invite Lord Shiva to perform the ceremony.

During the same period, the Pallava King also constructed a Shiva temple with pomp and style and invited Lord Shiva for consecration. The Lord appeared in the King's dream and advised him to postpone the date as he had already agreed to go to the temple built by Poosalar Nayana on the same day. The King went in search of Poosalar and to his surprise did not find any temple. Poosalar Nayanar explained that the temple existed within his heart. Lord Shiva appeared in effulgence and took Poosalar Nayanar to his abode.

(4) Padasevana:- Manikkavachakar who belonged to the 16th century and was a native of Madurai, worshipped Lord Shiva very earnestly. He set his foot once in Lord Nataraja's temple in Chidambaram. His heart poured out songs in adoration on witnessing the cosmic dance of  Lord Nataraja. The Lord was so pleased that he decided to bring them to light to the world of other devotees.


He came in disguise of an old Brahmin and pleaded Manikkavachakar to sing those songs as he could not hear them completely when he sang before Lord Nataraja in the temple. Manikkavachakar  sang the mellifluous numbers with dripping devotion. He surrendered  totally at the Brahmin's feet when the latter who had been noting down the recitals  most attentively vanished in silence.




 

Next day morning when the temple priest opened the sanctum sanctorum noticed a palm leaf book at the feet (Pada) of the Lord. He, in curiosity, opened the book and found it was titled as 'THIRUCHITRAMBALAM'  (Chidambaram is known by this name) with an explanation that the book took its shape as directed by Manikkavachakar. The description bore the stamp of LORD NATARAJA TO TESTIFY ITS AUTHENTICITY. This fact is engraved in the walls of the temple. Manikkavachakar was swarmed by the priests to know the genesis of the hymns. He replied  that the Lord alone knows the answer. So saying he merged with the Lord.(Padasevanam) at his feet.

(5) Archana:- This saint called ' SAKKIA NAYANAR ' was a Vellala born in Tirucchangamangai. He was totally disgusted with worldly life and wanted to attain Liberation. He became a Buddhist, but  was not  satisfied.. He was immediately attracted to Saivism.. He adored Lord Siva. One day, as he was sitting in an open Siva temple and meditating upon, he got completely absorbed in the divine bliss and forgetfully threw a stone at the Lingam. On the next day, he went to the temple again and recollected the previous day's action. He felt that it was the Lord's Will, to reveal the profound truth that He would accept anything offered by His Bhakta in devotion. He threw a stone that day too. That became his daily way of worship, without which he would not take his food! One day, when he was about to take his meal, he remembered that he had not done his usual Puja. He forgot his hunger and rushed to the temple and performed Archana by throwing a stone. Shiva was pleased with his true devotion and took him to Kailasa. (Shiva's Abode)

(6) Vandana:- Vandanam is the basic trait of worship and need no specific illustration. ( Vandana means folding the hands respectfully to show one's regards)

(7) Daasya:- We hear a name like "Ramadas". Dasa in Sanskrit means ' to serve with utmost affection'. The best example for this form of worship is Hanuman. He carried Sri Rama on his shoulder physically. It would be most appropriate to say that Hanuman carried Sri Ramachandra Murthy in his heart. He flew thousands of miles to fetch the  ' Sanjeevi Parvatha ' to save Rama's life. He went to Sri Lanka as an emissary of Rama and found Sita in Asokavana. In short, wherever ' Rama Nama ' is uttered, Hanuman can be seen with folded hands with his eyes brimming with tears of joy.

(8) Sakhya:- Sakhya Bhava refers to the attitude of a friend towards Bhagavan. . Sundaramurthy Nayanar's devotion to Lord Thyagaraja stands as an illustration for this form of worship.

Sundaramurthy Nayanar visited many shrines before reaching Thiruvarur. The Lord appeared and asked the Brahmin Community to accord a warm welcome to Sundarar as he is a great friend to Shiva. Sundarar accepted it in humility. Sundarar, then began his worship in the temple,when  he heard a heavenly voice "Sundara, I have made you as my friend. For this reason, I once prevented you from getting married. Hereafter you will appear ever as a bridegroom and sport on earth ". Sundarar became a handsome bridegroom immediately. People called him "Thambirar Thozhar", meaning friend of God. Thereafter it was the Lord  who ordained his marriage with Paravayar and as a friend happily  performed it in style.

It was the Lord who sang the first line of the famous poem 'Thiruthonda Thogai' and Sundarar completed the song. The idol of Sundaramurthy Nayanar is always installed separately and  next to Lord Shiva, the presiding deity in Shiva Temples.

(9) Atmanivedana:- 'To give oneself to God' is same as referred in the doctrine of 'Saranagathi ' or total surrender to the God - this form of worship is known as 'Atmanivedana '. The classic illustration for atmanivedana is the worship of Arjuna to Krishna. In Kurukshetra war.  Arjuna was perplexed and worried  as to how to fight with his Guru and close relatives and surrendered totally at the Lord's feet for what he should do. Lord Krishna was pleased with his devotion and utter faith and preached the universally well known  'Bhagavad Gita'.  Arjuna became totally relieved in his mind when Krishna preached :-

"Karmaye Va Adhikaraste Ma Phaleshu Kadachana" - In a nut shell this explains what is 'Karma Yoga' is all about. Our only concern should be about doing our duty to the best of our ability  and not worrying  about the results for those outside  our control.

pn

'A Rousing Welcome for Krishna in Dwaraka' ! - (Also) Chapter 9 - ' The Birth Of Parikshith '

P.Natarajan.

Srimad Bhagavatham - Skanda 1 - Chapter 8 (contd.) - (Source: Sri Sri Sri Velukudi Swmay's writings in recent Tamil Weekly Thuglak)
'A Rousing Welcome for  Krishna  in  Dwaraka' !   -   (Also)
Chapter 9  - ' The Birth Of Parikshith '

We saw the end of Kurushetra war and the beginning of 'Dharma Rajya' in Hastinapura when Krishna takes leave from there for his abode at Dwaraka. As Krishna enters Dwarakapuri, people sang in chorus in praise of Krishna:-

Bhavaaya Nastvam Bhava Viswa Paavana
Tvameve Maata  Athasuhrut Pati: Pitaa\
Tvam Satguru: Na Parmancha Daivatam
Yasyanu Vrutyaa Kritinopa Bhuvima \\

"He Kanna! Thou art our Father; Thou art our dear Mother; Thou art our illustrious Guru; You are our sole deity. It's  Impossible for us to live without you; Where were you all these days, not revealing your graceful eyes, beautiful eyebrows, impressive neck, broad chest and feet where all surrender in implicit faith?

Krishna was moved by the devotion of the people of Dwaraka and embraced all of them affectionately without any discrimination and inquired about their welfare. Krishna's action exhibited that all are equal before God and He shows no difference between the Jivatmas. When people gather at DWARAKA for worship, there are no separate queue for the rich or the poor. Krishna protects all as 'Govardana Giridhari'. But there is one difference - the women folk take the place in the front row and men behind them only. Kanna's preference is always first for women only because ' It is they  as the Gopikas, lived only for the sake of dear Gopala ! '

Sukacharya brings out beautifully in Bhagavatha Purana :- " The dark clouds in the sky spread all over is a treat to the eyes - The Moon or the sun at times stand as decoration to the sky - The rainbow adds to the beauty once in a way - The stars twinkle brilliantly in the night emitting cool rays  from the sky.  Lightning  when it strikes adds picturesque glitters to the  dark sky -  Krishna gave a similar appearance -' How apt it is that He himself shone in 'Neelamegha shyamala varna'. The White Umbrella which the devotees held over his head looked like the Sun. The fans used by them was akin to the cool and pleasant moon. The Tulsi garland around his neck along with other colorful flowers gave the semblance of a rainbow, The bunch of flowers which the Devas and Rishis showered sparkled like the twinkling stars. The silk garment around his shoulders appeared as lightning, spreading a glow on his face. Naked eyes of humans could not see all those - Deep meditation is the basic requirement to visualize these!

Kannan entered his Kingdom and embraced warmly the mothers and wives and showed his affection. People beheld Krishna as one of them which illustrates their love for him. A doubt may arise that when a brilliant precious Stone falls into mud, it might lose its luster - likewise when Krishna takes avatar like a man, will not the blemishes in the Earth affect him. Certainly not as His Avatar as a Human is not on account of Karma but it is his 'Sankalpa' or "Wish' on the premise of 'Sambhavami Yuge Yuge'. It becomes abundantly clear that Sri Krishna lived with the people in Dwaraka as one of them without losing his uniqueness and at the same time found happiness within him as well as in his fellow-beings

Chapter 9 - The Birth of Parikshith:-

Sounaka and other Rishis wished to know from Suta Pouranika the details about the Birth of Parikshith, his childhood and how he gained knowledge from the teachings of Sukacharya.and finally met his death by a snake bite.

Suta began the narration:- " Dharmaputra was ruling the country, praised by scholars as a golden era,  bringing prosperity and abundance to all. Uttara was in advanced  stage of pregnancy when the astra aimed by Aswathama  entered the womb to destroy the embryo. Krishna recognizing the grave and impending disaster shrunk his size equal to that of a thumb and entered the womb where Parikshith, the child was in a state of danger. Lord Krishna enveloped Parikshith with his graceful body and was circling inside and used his Sudharshana Chakra to counteract  the astra aimed by Aswathama. As the time of birth neared, the child was born lifeless as a tiny piece of  black wood. Krishna gave life to the child by stroking his foot over the child. The astrologers were in utter dismay after seeing the child becoming alive. Since the child was born out of the sheer Grace of Krishna and his life was saved by none other than Lord Vishnu, it earned the name as 'Visnuradhan'. People started wondering at the glow of the child and expressed loudly that it was Pandu reborn again as the child.

Parikshith as a Name was most appropriate to the child according to the Devas and Rishis:-

(1) Parith: + Ekshanam = Parikshith -Sanskrit meaning - paritha: means going around and round; Ekshanam means Protection - Bhagavan protected the child in the womb by going round and round.
(2) When the child was born, it went round and round to examine (Parikshith means to examine)  who had protected it to come alive.
The birth of Parikshith was considered significant from these angles.

Parikshith Maharaja ruled Hastinapura in an orderly manner. There was respect for every one under his rule. He performed many 'yajnas'. He was able to control even the 'Kalipurusha'.

It was unfortunate that Parikshith incurred the displeasure of a Rishi Kumara by name Sringi who cursed Parikshith that he would meet with his death within seven days by the bite of a deadly snake. But before it happened, Sukacharya whom Parikshith had not known or seen would preach Srimad Bhagavatha Purana to him within those seven (last) days of his life. This would benefit the whole world and its people - these predictions were made at the time of his birth by great Astrologers which proved to be true later and was witnessed as a reality !

Parikshith's hearing the Bhagavatha Purana in seven days happened and  we received  the sacred 'Srimad Bhagavatham'  as a special and never the less as an extraordinary gift.

pn

Satyanarayana puja

Ohm Namo Bhagavathe Vasudevaya !
The nine forms of worship:-
Sravanam Keerthanam Smaranam
Padasevanam Archanam Vandanam
Dhasyam Sakyam Atmanivedanam

Satyanarayana Puja comprises all the forms of Woorship.
Satyanarayana Swamy is an extremely benevolent form of Lord Vishnu.
He is an incarnation of Truth.
The Puja is performed by people of family altogether with their Friends and Relatives.
Satyanarayana Puja ensures abundance in the life of a person.
People perform the Puja for auspicious occasion like marriage, haouse-warming
or for any success in life.

SRI SATYANAARAYANASWAMIM
NEELAVARNAM PEETHAVASTRAM DHYAYETH SRIVATHSABHOOSHITHAM !
GOVINDAM GOKULANANDAM BRAHMATHITHYAYRABHI POOJITHAM  !!

Srimad Bhagavatham - Grant of Pardon to Aswathama & Bhagavan Krishna protects the life of Parikshith

P.Natarajan.

 Srimad Bhagavatham Serial -(Source: Sri Sri Sri Velukudi Swmay's writings in recent Tamil Weekly Thuglak)

# Grant of Pardon to Aswathama:-

 The battle of Kurukshetra ended. Duryodana was killed. Pandavas won.  Aswathama, son of Dronacharya, wowed that he would destroy the sons of Pandavas, to avenge the death of Duryodana as he felt indebted to him.  So did he as  the children of Pandavas  were sleeping in the tents. Further he knew Uttara, wife of Abhimanyu, was pregnant and with an aim to kill the child in the womb, he shot an astra towards it. Draupati who came to know of Aswathama's deadly acts, was pained beyond words. Arjuna pledged to Draupati that he would not spare Aswathama's life who had killed her sons.

Aswathama fled from one corner to the other corner of the world to save himself from Arjuna's fury. Aswathama aimed Brahmastra to kill Arjuna in angry. Arjuna sought the advice of Krishna who told him to aim Brahmastra as it is the only means to encounter another Brahmastra. Both the Brahmastras clashed in the air and began their destructive effects. Devas and Sages prayed to Lord Krishna to save the world from the catastrophe. Krishna advised Arjun to destroy both the Brahmastras.Aswathama lost his strength in the sequel and Arjuna caught him as a prisoner of war.

Krishna wanted to test Arjuna and he elaborated before him how mean and wicket was Aswathama who had even attempted to destroy the only progeny of Pandava-clan. Krishna angrily remarked that Arjuna should not  let him free as Aswathama deserved the strongest punishment.To kill Aswathama was the order of the Lord. But Arjuna did not kill him but dragged him and brought before Draupati and gave the option to her to take whatever action she desired upon. Draupati took compassion as Aswathama was the son of great guru Dronacharya, so he also needed to be respected as a Guru. Further said, " As a mother, I had suffered and let not Aswathama's mother suffer the same fate ".  Bur Bheema who was watching  the scene condemned Aswathama and voiced he should be killed. Krishna intervened and advised Arjuna that he should carry out the pledge he had made already to Draupati that he would destroy Aswathama, but at the same time, Arjuna should also heed to Droupati's wish as a mother, to save Aswathama's life.

Arjuna realized Krishna's real intentions. Arjuna shaved Aswathama's head and removed the precious gem adorning his forehead using a knife . The reason for doing so was that it was considered that acts of punishment like shaving one's head, robbing wealth or banishing a person away are all equivalent to 'Death-Punishment'. By doing so, Arjuna did not suffer the sin of killing his Guru's son nor going against the wishes of Draupati. Arjuna did exactly what Krishna commanded.. It was the greatness of Draupati to grant pardon to Aswathama even though Krishna wished otherwise.

We shall now visit the 6th Chapter in SKANDA-1, and see how Bhagavan saved the life of Parikshith. 

# Bhagavan Krishna protects the life of Parikshith:-

The arrow aimed by Aswathama to kill the only progeny in Uthara's womb started doing its function. Uthara came  running to Krishna and begged at his feet to save the child, no matter, she told Krishna,  if she got succumbed in the process. Uttara firmly believed that Bhagavan was not only a 'KARBHARAKSHAKAR'  but  also capable of bringing alive a dying soul. Krishna knew well that the only weapon which could destroy the astra aimed by Aswathama was his Sudharsana Chakra. He aimed the same and devastated the Awathama's in seconds and saved Parikshith, the child to be born and the only progeny to Pandava's clan.

Kunthi  sang in a heart-felt gratitude in praise of Krishna " Oh, Dheenadayala, Apathpandava, Anatharakshaka, Sarvavyapi though can't be seen by naked eyes, I surrender at your feet". Aszhwar in one of the 'Thiruvaimoshzi  Pasura' refers Bhagavan as a ' Kadgili'. The term ''Kadgili' means Bhagavan is invisible. But when Ashzwar uses the same term in his prayers to see Bhagavan, it makes sense to interrupt that God could be seen. The dichotomy could be explained this way. When a devotee makes untiring efforts continuously over a period of time in firm faith to see God, or seeks HIS GRACE heart-of-hearts, Bhagavan appears before him. In normal course, this does not happen. We know Lord Narayana appeared before Prahalada which episode stands even today as a part of history.
 

We may think that Bhagavan is partial - good to Pandavas and harming Kouravas ' but this is not the absolute truth. Veda Vyasa in Brahmasuthra says " VYSHAMYA NAIRKRUNYE NA SAPEKSHWATH' - meaning- Bhagavan  never acts as a partisan -  if sometimes HIS actions have semblance of partiality, it is because of the ill deeds of the person under dispute. Bhagavan punishes the wicked and rewards the incumbent for his good acts. Kunthi Ddevi brought out this principle clearly when she prayed to Krishna. Krishna advocates this theory in Gita also :-

" JANMA KARMA CHA ME DIVYAM YEVAM YO VETHTHI THATH-THATH VADA !   THYAKTHVA  DEHAM PUNARJANMA NAITHI MAMETHI SO(A)RJUNA !! "  (Meaning follows):-

Bhagavan in His many avatars has performed numerous deeds, which were rewarding and astonishing too. Those who can bring them into the memory again again and get moved devotionally   will overcome the cycle of births.  There is no re-birth for them.

Kunthi believed  that Krishnavatara too would serve the same purpose as far as they are concerned. By rejoicing in their mind the bravo acts of Bala-Krishna like ' Kalinganarthana', protecting the people in Brindavan from the fury of Varuna Deva under one Umbrella, killing the Asuras who were deputed by Kamsa in succession, and so on. There would be no rebirth for Kunthi and the likes who had witnessed 'Krishna-Leelas' in Dwaparayuga and thus obtained God's blessings. Krishna was touched by Kunthi's prayers and blessed all of  them again at that moment.

Krishnan then led all of them to Kurukshethra to get the advice from Bhishmacharya who was waiting on the bed of arrows for Utharayana to commence  to relinquish his body. As a matter of fact, Bhishmacharya was waiting for  Krishna to arrive at the spot to start his oration which had come to be known as the famous "BHISHMA STHUTHI" in praise of Lord Krishna in Bhagavathapurana.

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Srimad Bhagavatham Serial -- Discussion Betyween Narada and Vyasa

P.Natarajan.

Srimad Bhagavatham : - (Source: Sri Sri Sri Velukudi Swmay's writings in recent Tamil Weekly Thuglak)                                            
 Discussion between Narada and Vyasa - Narada Rishi enunciates how Bhakthi purifies the heart & soul:-

Parasar belonged to the clan of Vasishta. Vedavyasa who was born to Parasar was in fact an avatar of Narayana. Vyasa was responsible in categorizing Vedas into four parts namely
Rig, Yajur, Sama and Atharvana  and propagated them for the benefit of mankind. Vyasa taught many disciples the Epics and Puranas. Vyasa also authored Mahabharatha. But he
was not contented. When he was contemplating the cause for his displeasure, Narada Rishi
appeared before him. He was able to sense Vyasa's worry.
Narada began to advise Vyasa. ''Vyasa, You have written about Dharmartha- Kama- Moksha
but not advocated about the pursuit of  ' Moksha or Mukthi ' in detail. Hence learned people have not read your works. Pl. know that when you talk more about Dharma or Artha, egoistic tendency would raise to a height. On the other hand, if you take up the subject of Moksha or talk more about Bhagavan, people would get inspiration to up-lift themselves to a higher plane of thinking. They would start meditating on Bhagavan. They would care more for others and not brood over the past. We should always speak in praise of the Almighty. Otherwise the tongue serves no purpose. A
mother always loves to hear her child's melody even though the child blabs devoid of meaningful words. Simlarly God loves to lend his ears to the devotee's prayers in whatever manner he utters".
Narada continued his advice to Vyasa. '' Let us now take stock of what people are doing  in this
world. Many may be bad committing sinful acts. The other section of the population may be helpful to fellow-beings, They may not worry much about good or bad nor they believe in re-birth. What fate would they meet? They will certainly take re-birth in line with their 'prarabdha'. Let us now consider yet another section of the population.They are aware of Sastras and know which acts bring 'punya' or wholesome benefit and carry out such noble works to enable them to amass punya. Here an element of self interest is inherent - hence they also get rebirth. Let us now focus attention about
another sect of the population who believe in self actualization. They not only are pious, be of service to others, go one step ahead in not expecting any benefit from the good acts. They in fact
surrender the 'punya' or benefit of the good deeds at the feet of Lord Narayana. They wish to emancipate when they leave their sole and succeed  too".
Narada explained to  Vyasa that the cause for his discontentment was that Vyasa
had advised people to do their duties only. Narada pointed out that Vyasa failed to advise people to surrender the fruits of their good acts at the lotus feet of Lord Narayana to enable them to obtain 'Moksha'. If so, people would have been happy and the Lord too.  Vyasa also would have
felt happy which meant that Vyasa had missed a golden opportunity. Vyasa realized the mistake and also understood the reason for his unsatisfied state.
Vyasa wished to hear from Narada what was the secret or origin of his birth and reasons for higher learning.Narada narrated that he was wandering as a boy of five when he came to work in Asrams where holy Saints were living. They talked more about Bhagavan especially during 'Chathur-Masya-Vratha'. It had a great impact in the young mind of Narada who lost his mother by then. Narada left for North where he started doing penance. Narayana appeared in his subconscious mind. But when Narada opened his eyes the Lord was not seen. He asked Narayana why he did not appear before him. Bhagavan explained to Narada that He had bestowed the cult of Bhakthi in Narada in that birth. Bhagavan assured Narada that in his next birth he would, as a true devotee of Narayana, go around the world singing 'Narayana, Narayana..' propagating Bhakthi
and thus attain Mukthi. Narayana explained further that He does not accord Dharsan for the immature. Those who have unflinching faith in Bhagavan would never waver and their thoughts would always be enveloping the Lord. They attain, may be after many cycles of birth, but certainly
Mukthi at the end.
Narada relinquished his body from the previous birth and entered the heart of Brahma as a jyothi through air which Brahma inhaled. Brahma created many Rishis in the world, one of them
happened to be Narada Rishi. Narada Rishi got the possession of the Veena by name 'Mahathi'. Narada Rishi spread the name of Narayana and its significance in all the worlds where he went around. Narada did not pay attention to speak about Karma or doing Dharma but concentrated to speak about Lord Narayana and his resplendent qualities. Narada made it exemplary that the Bhakthi alone would serve as a ship to cross the turbulent sea of 'Samsara' and attain Moksha.
When Narada left the scene, Vyasa whose heart became light and relieved of mental tension reached Maana located three KM. above Badrinath and took bath in the river Saraswathi (named after Brahma's wife).On the west bank of R.Saraswathi he setup an Asram called 'Samyaprasam'. He meditated upon Lord Narayana and soon  realized that his devotion towards the Lord increased intensely. The spirit of bhakthi flowed from his mouth which alone was instrumental in delivering the 'Bhagavatha Purana' to the world. Vyasa thus authored the famous ' Srimad Bhagavatham ' and
preached it to his son Sukacharya. Sounaka and other Sages who also heard the story Srimad Bhagavatham had a doubt what was the necessity for Vyasa to deliver the Bhagavatha Purana to Sukacharya who was already a strong devotee and a Yogi. They also remembered an anecdote when once Vyasa and his son Sukacharya were walking along a river side, the women folk who were bathing wore the dress immediately on seeing Vyasa but when they saw Vyasa's son the young Sukacharya they continued their bath as before..;  Vyasa who became perplexed questioned the reason for their behavior. They explained that Sukacharya was much above mundane feelings or such worldly thoughts that he felt no distinction between man and a woman. Hence Sounaka's question was natural and not odd to know if Vyasa had any other specific cause to handover the Srimad Bhagavatham to a real devotee and yogi like Sukacharya.
To this Sutha pouranika replied in detail. " True that Bhakthi gets intensified by visiting Temples, doing prayers and so on. But it does not stop there. The more you hear about the auspicious and glorious qualities of the Lord, Bhakthi springs profusely from the bottom of the heart and the devotee clings to it and surrenders at his feet.  A true yogi like Sukacharya received the Bhagavatha Purana in the same spirit. Sky is the limit for devotional renderings. Sukacharya could spread the message of Bhagavatha Purana by conducting "Sapthaham" (reading Bhagavathapurana in seven days) in the midst of thousands of devotees who also would perform Sapthaham on their own later.  Thus the scope gets extended to propagate Bhakthi and the practice of reading Bhagavathapurana or performing 'Bhagavatha Sapthaham' flourishes for ever..Sukacharya advocated Bhagavathapuranam to Parikshith Maharaja. At this time, it is necessary to take a deviation.
Let us now look into the story of Parikshith as well as Aswathama....(to be continued)


pn
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