AArsha Vani

(Voice of Sanatana Dharma)

January 2018 Volume: 3 Issue: 12

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Title Page# Title Page#

1. Yēṣa: Sarva Devātmaka: 1 Parliament of Religions
2. Goddess Saraswati 2 9. The Mahabharata True Story from 5
3. Maharshi Tyagayya 2 Sage Veda Vyasa BHISHMA - AMBA
4. Anna, jñāna, ārōgya pradāta 2 10. Bhishmacharya 5
5. Akshara Shakthi Peethas 3 11. Pushyamasa - Scriptural Stipulations 5
6. Goddess Lakshmi sets Her Foot here… 3 12. Pitr̥ dēvō bhava -Madhusūdanāya nāma 5
7. The ‘EGO’ of Bhagavan Sri Ramana 5 13. Śiva jñānaṁ - Śiva Mahādēva 6
8. Swami Vivekananda – 1893 World 4 14. ‘Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma’ 6
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“सरस्वती श्रुततमहती महीयत ां "

"Sarasvatī śrutimahatī mahīyatāṁ"
(The above phrase in Rushipeetham logo is said by King Dushyanta in Sri Kalidasa’s Abhignana
Sakuntalam. “Pravartatāṁ prakr̥tihitāya pārthivaḥ; sarasvatī śrutimahatī mahīyatāṁ; mamāpi ca
kṣapayatu nīlalōhitaḥ; punarbhavaṁ........" - ‘Rulers shall strive to save nature. Education
derived from Vedas shall become venerable paving the path to universal welfare. Vedic
education stipulating the directives of Dharma shall thrive. Let there be no rebirth to me by the
grace of Svayambhu Sada Siva’. King Dushyantha aspired for the above.)

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma

 AArsha Vani
(Voice of Sanatana Dharma)

January 2018 Volume: 3 Issue: 12

Yēṣa: Sarva Devātmaka: Upcoming Pravachanams

Worshippers of Surya decree that He is the ‘Supreme Parabrahman’. Scriptures Date: Jan 2, 2018 6:30PM
Topic: "Sri Goda Vybhavam"
mention that a spiritual aspirant cannot
Venue: Sri Goda Ranganathaswami Devalayam,
realize the grace of the deity being Krishna Nagar Colony, Road # 5, NFC Main
worshipped without the worship of that Road, Maulali Housing Boad, Hyderabad.
deity as present in the halo of Surya. Contact: Dr. Dhanunjai - 7702417779
Everyone should worship their chosen deity Date: Jan 3, 2018 5:00PM
Topic: "Ramayanamlo Sundara Kanda
as present in the center of Surya. Worship of
Prasastyam"
Surya is widely prevalent across Bhaarata in Venue: Mukkoti Maha Mandapam, Nandigam
various forms. In the portions of mantras Krishna District.
describing Surya, Vedas mention ‘Ekam Sat; Contact: Manganathacharyulu- 9848615513
Vipra: Bahudhā Vadanti’ which means ‘Truth Date: Jan 4 – 6, 2018 6:00PM
Topic: "Sri Lalitha Mahima"
is One; Wise call it by different names’. Surya
Venue: Zilla Parishad High School,
is the complete embodiment and direct manifestation of the forms of all other Kadali, East Godavari District.
Gods. Some of His many popular names such as Mitra, Bhānu, Āditya, Ravi, Contact: Kasibhatla Sitaramarao – 9440116691
Bhāskara, Pūṣa, Diwākara etc. reveal His nature and philosophy. For example, Date: Jan 7 – 13, 2018 6:30PM
worship of Surya as ‘Diwākara’, ‘Āditya’ removes all kinds of mental illness and Topic: "Tulasidasa Virachita Sri Rama Charita
Manas"
sufferings from enemies. It is Surya Himself whose different forms of energy have
Venue: Sankara Mutt, Tadepalligudem.
manifested as Indra, Mitra, Varuna, Yama, Kubēra to orchestrate the functioning Contact: Vemuri Sriram – 9000945099
of this entire universe. Markandeya Purana elucidates an amazing episode about VLN Krishna - 9441902214
the evolution of Sun. The Supreme Lord gave the Vedas to Brahma to conduct Date: Jan 18 – 24, 2018 6:30PM
the task of creation. Brahma meditated upon ‘Aumkāra’ and started chanting Topic: “Sundarakanda"
Venue: Ramalayam, Kontamuru.
Vedas. Gradually, those sounds of Rik, Yaju, Sama and Atharvana mantras along
Contact: Ravindra Choudary – 9346238341
with Aumkāra emanating from Brahma took the form of a gigantic effulgent halo.
In reverence, Brahma, who Himself was unable to look at that halo, prostrated to
that resplendent sphere of light, which is nothing but the manifestation of all four
Vedas containing all the Gods and Aumkāra. The Supreme Lord gave vision of Date: Jan 29, 2018 6:00PM
“SIVA PADAM” Musical Concert
Himself in the center of that halo to Brahma. This primordial halo is the basis for
‘SVARASRI’ Garimella Bala Krishna Prasad garu.
all other Suryas that came into existence later. This is what is worshipped as Venue: Sri Vallabha Ganapati Mandir
‘RigYajussāma Apāraga:’ in Aditya Hrudayam stotram. Hence, one namaskara to Contact: Ravindra Choudary – 9346238341
Surya with devotion yields the merits of performing all Yajnas and offering Date: Jan 30, 2018 6:00PM
salutations to all gods. ‘Āditi’ means that which can’t be divided. The essence of Topic: “SIVA PADAM” Musical Concert
By ‘SVARASRI’ Garimella Bala Krishna Prasad garu.
entire cosmic energy personified is Surya. Let’s offer Namaskara and Arghya to
Venue: Surya Kala Mandir, Kakinada.
Surya! - Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma. Contact: Ch. Ramamurty – 9490799229
(Adapted from ‘Magha Maasam - Suryopasana’ Pravachanam)
For More Program Details
Sadhu Vachanam ( visit http://rushipeetham.org/ Event Calendar)
“It is true that in the world of practical life you cannot do without wealth. But
Traditions-Fulfilments
do not attach more importance to money than it deserves. Never forget that
Chant the following mantra while
money is only a means of happiness and not happiness itself.”.
doing namaskara to Surya as told by Lord
– Sri Sri Sri Chandrasekhara Bharati .
Vishnu to Garuda.
Bharateeyam śrī khakhōlkāya śāṁtāya
"Hinduism will teach us the tolerance and gentleness of mature mind, kāraṇa traya hētavē!
understanding spirit and a unifying, pacifying love for all human beings”. nivēdayā micātmānaṁ
– Will Durant, American Philosopher. namastē jñāna rūpiṇē!!

Spiritual Quest
(Answers by Sri Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma)
Why Aksharaabhyasa (Initiation into education) is done writing ‘Ōṁ namaśśivāya siddaṁ nama:’ but not ‘Ōṁ namō
nārāyaṇāya’?
There is no necessity to think like this. If Ōṁ namō nārāyaṇāya’ is written, then the question would have been why not
‘namaśśivāya’. It’s not the intention of those elders not to write ‘nārāyaṇāya’ and deny the Ashtakshari. Panchakshari
(namaśśivāya) contains the base tattva for all the fifty energies of Aksharas (letters). This mantra is part of Yajurveda and
is called ‘Siddha Mantra’ i.e. the mantra that grants the wish. Every mantra has it’s distinct significance. Narayana mantra
efficacy also has it’s basis in Vedas. One should not compare both and decide high lows. During Aksharaabhyasa, our
ancestors used to have children write ‘ō nama: śivāya: siddhaṁ nama:’. Great mantras like Panchakshari and Ashtakshari
are not imposed in their original forms. Hence, they are written with small transformations as mentioned above. But,
nowadays, it is being written directly unaware of this tradition. It is the tradition of our ancestors to get initiation from
Guru into Panchakshari, Shadakshari or Ashtakshari, comprehend in totality and then chant accordingly.

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 1

 Maharshi Tyagayya
Everyone worships goddess Saraswati as the form of knowledge. Her form is
described as one holding veena (a stringed musical instrument), holding Rama Katha Sudha
Akṣamāla (Beads chain) and Pustakam (book) sitting in a lotus on a swan.
Akṣamāla represents all the letters from ‘A’ to ‘Kṣa’. Veena represents the
energy of sound. Hamsa (swan) symbolizes the intellect of discrimination. In
Yoga, Hamsa also represents inhalation and exhalation. Rig Veda extolled
goddess Saraswati as ‘praṇō dēvi sarasvati vājebhirvājinīvati dhīna
māvitryavatu’ i.e. Let Saraswati bless with abundance and affluence.
‘dhīnam avitri’ means one who protects the intellect i.e. protects from loss,
wandering etc. Another mantra says ‘ambitamē nadītamē dēvitamē
sarasvati’ meaning ‘You are the exalted one among Mothers, Rivers and
Devis.’ She is worshipped as ‘sarva śuklā sarasvati’, ‘nīlā sarasvati’, ‘tāra’,
‘śyāmala dēvi’ etc. Tattva behind describing the color of Saraswati as white
is very important to understand. She is the presiding deity of knowledge.
Knowledge should have two essential characteristics – purity and clarity. January 6, 2018 – Tyagaraja Samaradhana
And, these two qualities are represented by white color. Different Pallavi - rāma katha sudhā rasaṁ pānaṁ oka
expressions of mind such as buddhi, prajña, mēdhā, rājyamu chēsunē
sphuraṇa, pratibha, dhāraṇā etc. are the forms of Anupallavi - Bhāmāmani jānaki saumitri
Saraswati. ‘prāṇa śakti sarasvati’. Each epithet of the bhāratādulatō bhūmi velayu
goddess has very distinct and profound meanings. Sītā rāma katha sudhārasaṁ pānaṁ
Elucidation of Saraswati is ‘saraḷa śaraṇa śīlatvāt Charaṇaṁ - Dharmādhyakhila phaladamē
sarasvati’ i.e. that which flows always without manasā dhairyānandā saukhya nikētanamē
remaining stagnant. Knowledge is ever renewing Karma bandha jvalanābdi nāvamē kali
and disseminated from Guru to disciple for haramē
generations. A story in Vedas tells that She tyāgarāja vinutudagu rāma katha sudhā
appeared to rishis emerging from the Saras rasaṁ pānaṁ oka rājyamu chēsunē
(lake) of Vedas and hence known as Drinking the nectar of Rama’s story is like
. means one who is crystal enjoying the riches of an undivided vast
clear and removes mud and dirt i.e. removes the dirt of ignorance and grantsempire, the one who is gracing the earth with
the clarity of knowledge. Another derivation of Śāradā is ‘Śr̥ṇāti hinasti Janaki, the jewel among women, Saumitri,
Śāradā’ meaning one who destroys the obliviousness. Her another name is Bharata and others (His entire entourage).
‘Bhārati’. means the embodiment of Yajña. In Saraswati Gita Devout listening of Rama’s story bestows
described in the Araṇya Parva of Mahabharata, Saraswati Herself mentions Dharma, Artha, Kaama and Moksha.
that She is the embodiment of Yajña. Because Yagna is replete with Vedic Ramayana also provides happiness coupled
mantras, Yajña is nothing but Vedas. One of the mantras in Saraswati Sūkta with courage and bliss. Mother Sita indirectly
of Rig Veda is ‘cōdayitri sūnr̥tānāṁ cētanti sumatīnāṁ yajñaṁ dadhē gives this direction to mankind by listening to
sarasvati’. She bestows grace and grants the boons of those who perform the story of Rama multiple times from
Yajñas. She is also known as meaning the Śakti of Brahma. Let’s Hanuman to get happiness and remain
worship Goddess Saraswati with bhakti and shraddha and obtain Her grace! courageous. ‘Dhairya’ is derived from ‘Dhīra’
– Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma. which means the brave who remains
(Adapted from ‘Devi Mahatmyam’ discourse) unaffected by vicissitudes. Upanishad says,
Kaschit Dhīrā: Pratyagātma’. In Lalita
Worship of Saraswati on Magha Shuddha Panchami is very
Sahasranama also, it is mentioned as ’Dhīrā:
auspicious and efficacious.
Worship of Saraswati can be done in either Kalasam or book or
Dhīrasamarchita’. Ramayana provides
pratima (picture). absolute resoluteness to those who want to
Worship of Saraswati is efficacious with white flowers dipped in remain steadfast in Dharma. Rama’s story
white sandalwood paste. ferries across the burning ocean of samsara
Offering payasam, coconuts, bananas and cow ghee to Saraswati and grants liberation.
bestows Her grace and increases intellect. – Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
(Adapted from ‘Tyagaraja Ramayanam’ pravachanam)
Shyamala Navaratri begins – January 18, 2018

Anna, jñāna, ārōgya pradāta

During the morning time called ‘Usha: kālam’, Surya is endowed with energy to destroy
any diseases. His energies during the different Sandhyas of morning, afternoon and
evening are represented by His wives namely Usha, Padmini and Sangya respectively.
Surya provides Anna: (sustenance), Jnana (knowledge) and Arogya (health). Yudhisthira is
blessed with the ‘Akshaya’ (inexhaustible) vessel by Aditya to provide for thousands every
day. Sage Yagnyavalkya not only retained all the knowledge lost, but also became expert
in new branches of knowledge with the worship of Surya. Everyone knows that Hanuman
is Surya’s favorite disciple, whose knowledge needs no special mention. Sambudu, son of
Krishna, got rid of leprosy disease with the worship of Surya. In recent times, poet Mayura
who got good health with the grace of Surya is another testimony. Worship of Surya
reciting ‘Aditya Hrudaya’ stotram is very efficacious. It is equivalent to chanting of Gayatri mantra and yields great merits.
Surya is extolled as ‘Namaskara Priya:’. Namaskara to Surya relieves from all kinds of sufferings. Let’s prostrate to Surya
with devotion and obtain His grace! – Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
(Adapted from ‘Magha Maasam – Suryopasana’ pravachanam)

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 2

Divine Mother is known as ‘mātr̥ka varṇa rūpiṇi’ i.e. the embodiment of all the letters. Each Akshara is a Shakthi Peetha,
that resides within our body. There are fifty devis residing in all the chakras. Each is
an epicenter of energy in Itself. ‘Ḍhākinīśvari’ resides in Visuddha chakra in a sixteen
petalled lotus encircled by sixteen devis, one in each petal. It is mentioned as ‘Amr̥tādi’
i.e. Amr̥ta and other devis. Their names are – amr̥uta, ākarṣiṇi, indrāṇi, īsāni, uṣa:Kēsi,
ūrdhva, ruddhidā, ṟūkāra, lukāra, lūkāra, ēkapada, aiśvarya, ōṁkāra, auṣadha, ambikā,
ā:kṣāra. First syllables of all these deities are the letters from ‘A’ to ‘A:’. These are the
presiding deities for those letters. ‘Rākiṇyambā’ resides in Anāhata cakra in a twelve
petalled lotus encircled by twelve devis. Their names are – kāḷarātri, kahātīta, gāyatri,
ghaṇṭādhārini, n̄ yāmīnī, candra, chāyā, jaya, jhānakāri, jñānarūpa, ṭyāṅkahasta,
ṭhaṅkārini. First syllables of all these deities are the letters from ‘ka’ to ‘ṭha’. In
Maṇipūra chakra there is a ten petalled lotus with ten devis in each petal. Their names
are – ḍāmari, ḍhaṅkāri, ṇāmiri, tāmasi, sthānavi, dākṣāyaṇi, dhātri, nanda, pārvati,
phaṭkārī. In svādhiṣṭhāna chakra, there is a six petalled lotus with six devis in each
petal whose names are baṇdini, bhadrakāḷi, mahāmāya, yaśasvinī, rāmā, lambōṣṭhi. In
mūlādhāra, there is a four petalled lotus with four devis in each petal whose names
varadā, śrī, ṣāṇḍi, sarasvati. ājñā chakra contains a two petalled lotus with two devis
namely Hansavati, kṣamāvati. Sage Dūrvāsa in His ‘Paraśambhu mahimnā stuti’ said -
śannāmapa yanvayāṇāṁ kṣiti jala dāha sparśanākāśa cētōvirājat
pīṭhasthānāṁ pārādya: para śiva bhāvata: śaktyō: mātr̥kāntā:’
‘O Siva! Your Shakti, the Divine Mother, is spread across the six centers representing earth, water, fire, air, ether and mind’.
When this letter is pronounced, the conscious sound energy that takes a specific form is precisely defined in the scriptures.
One should realize that it is only human that can transform the ‘Prana Shakti’ (life energy) into sounds of letters. During the
Akṣarābhyāsa ceremony itself, initiating a child into these letters is indirectly initiating into Yoga and Jnana.
viśuddhi cakranilayā,உஉraktavarṇā, trilōcanā | khaṭvāṅgādi praharaṇā, vadanaika samanvitā ||
pāyasānnapriyā, tvaksthā, paśulōka bhayaṅkarī
amṛtādi mahāśakti saṃvṛtā, ḍākinīśvarī ||
anāhatābja nilayā, śyāmābhā, vadanadvayā
daṃṣṭrōjjvalā,உkṣamālādhidharā, rudhira saṃsthitā ||
kāḷarātryādi śaktyōghavṛtā, snigdhaudanapriyā
mahāvīrēndra varadā, rākiṇyambā svarūpiṇī ||
maṇipūrābja nilayā, vadanatraya saṃyutā
vajrādhikāyudhōpētā, ḍāmaryādibhi rāvṛtā ||
raktavarṇā, māṃsaniṣṭhā, guḍānna prītamānasā
samasta bhaktasukhadā, lākinyambā svarūpiṇī ||
svādhiṣṭhānāmbu jagatā, caturvaktra manōharā
śūlādyāyudha sampannā, pītavarṇā,உtigarvitā ||
mēdōniṣṭhā, madhuprītā, bandinyādi samanvitā
dadhyannāsakta hṛdayā, ḍākinī rūpadhāriṇī ||
Pronouncing all these letters every day in order in-itself is the practice of Kundalini. Hence, Divine Mother is called ‘Sarva
varṇōpa śōbhitā’ i.e. resplendent with all letters. – Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
(Adapted from ‘Shakthi Peetha Rahasyalu’ Pravachanam)

Goddess Lakshmi sets Her Foot here…

In Mahabharata, Bhishma narrates to Yudhisthira where Goddess Lakshmi sets Her foot. If Goddess Lakshmi is to be
perceived as the celestial cow Kamadhenu with four legs, following are the four places where there shall be affluence –
1. Earth – It needs no elaboration that earth is the source of all wealth in this world. Right from
harvest to minerals to precious metals, everything is obtained from earth. 2. Fire – This means
that wherever Yagnas, Yagas, and Homas are performed, there is richness. Performing Yagnas
is on the decline these days. At least, if one lights a lamp every day during twilight times, that
home would be blessed with bounty. 3. Water – Water is the basic source of life. Without
water, there is neither life nor spirit of abundance. 4. Hearts of virtuous – Goddess Lakshmi
resides in the heart of those who practice truth, follow Dharma, live with right conduct,
endowed with Sattva, Saucham (purity), and good character. She is the embodiment of positive thoughts and deeds.
She also resides in objects such as gold, silver, paddy, flowers, milk, turmeric, vermilion etc. Hence, one should strive to
transform into virtuous people to obtain the grace of Sri Maha Lakshmi. – Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
(Adapted from ‘Lakshmi Kataksham’ Pravachanam)
Goddess Lakṣmī is worshipped in the form of Dhanalakṣmī and Dhānyalakṣmī in the month of Pauṣya.
In Northern Bhārata, it is traditional to start Magha Snana (ablutions) from Pauṣya Paurṇima. This is known as Magha Mela.
On the day of Sankranthi, many people take bath in sacred rivers at Prayaga, Ujjayan, Nasik, and Haridwar to get rid of
sins, as Purāṇas described about the fall of few drops of nectar into these sacred rivers. It is very auspicious that Bhogi fell
on Friday this year, a day dear to Lord Indra. One should worship Lord Indra along with their family deity on this day.
Worshipping harvest and animal wealth as ‘Dēvi Lakṣmi’ on the day of Kanuma is the specialty of this day, because animals,
especially cows and bulls along with harvest sustain us. This power of sustenance in them is the form of God.
‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 3
 Swami Vivekananda needs no introduction. Everyone in this Rise at the expense
country should raise their head with pride and joy thinking of of another?
how Swamiji promulgated the greatness of Bhaarata as a Swamiji became well-known
representative of Sanatana Dharma with such boldness in in America. Once he was
America where it is hitherto unknown. When I went to visit the given a rousing reception at
place where Swamiji delivered His first lecture in World Fair of a railway station as he got
1893, I was astounded at the steadfast devotion and dedication down from the train. A
Americans exhibited towards Swamiji. The place where He Negro porter went forward
delivered His first lecture is still safely preserved as a monument to shake hands with him
notified with a plaque. At the entrance into the building, the saying: `Congratulations! I
handout describes about Swami Vivekananda. And lo, wonder of am extremely delighted that
wonders – the entire staircase is engraved with the speech of a man of my race has
Swamiji. I was so ecstatic and became emotional pondering over attained such great honor!
how profound was the influence of Swamiji life and words on The entire Negro community
their lifestyles! Looking at all these, a reflection passed my mind in this country feels proud of
that Vivekananda is no less than Adi Sankara. Delivering lectures you!' Swamiji eagerly shook
about the depths of Sanatana Dharma with references from hands with the porter and
Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagavata and quotations from Vedas said warmly, `Thank you,
and Upanishads matching their intellectual grasp in a foreign brother!' He refused to deny
land, that does not even have basic exposure to these universal he was a Negro.
truths, and creating an everlasting impression on Swamiji was insulted,
their minds with his words, deeds, and character – humiliated and refused
That is Swami Vivekananda. Swamiji’s works and their entry into many hotels in the
astounding influence is so amazing that even South on suspicion that he
imagination of the same is beyond the ken of one’s was a Negro. But he never
intellect. Right from His childhood, Viveknanda is protested or explained that
known for his boldness, straightforward nature, he was an Indian. A Western
compassion and above all truthfulness. Even as a child, He used to spend more time in disciple once asked him why
meditation. When the responsibility of family moved onto His shoulders as the eldest son he did not tell them he was
after the sudden death of His father, surviving those vicissitudes pushed Him into the verge from India in such situations.
of desperation. This roused volley of questions and led Him into depths of enquiry about life, `What!' Swamiji looked
people, nature, God and necessity of religion etc. He quickly rationalized that religion is furiously and replied, `Rise
absolutely essential for one to fallback and stay at the expense of other! I
guarded on the path of righteousness, while at the did not come to earth for
same time religion if not properly understood and that!’
practiced, can lead to dangers. He was influenced by
Brahmo Samaj that idolatry is primitive mode of
worship but was not at all convinced with the
experience-less talks of those leaders. His quest
propelled and ultimately made Him restless till He met
Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa in his friend
Surendranath’s house. Subsequent meetings with Sri Paramahamsa transformed His life
forever for the benefit of entire humanity. Sri Ramakrishna slowly tamed His rebellious mind
and put on the path of supreme knowledge. Swamiji Himself later acknowledged that He
realized that God is with form and also without form. His rationalization and logic were Vivekananda: Why do good
people always suffer?
thoroughly satisfied and found complete answers when He holistically experienced that
Sri Ramkrishna:Diamond
Sanatana Dharma is not controversial but rather harmonious, and is an amalgamation of many
cannot be polished without
versatile schools of thought such as Saakaara (With Form), Niraakaara (Without Form), Yeka friction. Gold cannot be
(Monotheism), Aneka (Polytheism) along with different methods of practice such as worship, purified without fire.
yoga, yaga, astronomy, rituals etc. without any interference or controversy among them. He Good people go through
wandered all over the country like a parivrajaka meeting alike the wealthy, poor, yogis, trials, but don’t suffer.
teachers, gurus, kings, and commoners. He was convinced of the unity of this country despite With that experience their
its outwardly looking diversity. His meditation on the rock at Kanyakumari rejuvenated Him life becomes better, not
with a new lease of life. Speaking at the World Parliament of Religions amidst six thousand bitter.
delegates from all walks of life wherein everyone rose to their feet as a tribute for something Vivekananda: How can I
they knew not what, He said, “Here I am representing one of the most ancient faiths on the get the best out of life?
face of this earth, the Sanatana Dharma, otherwise known as Hinduism, which believes not in Sri Ramkrishna: Face your
bigotry but in open-mindedness with the fundamental tenets of ‘Help and not Fight’, past without regret.
‘Assimilation and not Destruction’, ‘Harmony and Peace but not Dissension’.” Handle your present with
- Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma. confidence.
(Adapted from ‘Swami Vivekananda Jeevita Charitra’) Prepare for the future
Swami Vivekananda 155th Jayanti: Pushya Krishna Saptami Jan 8, 2018 without fear.
n

“My child, what I want is muscles of iron and nerves of steel, inside which dwells a mind
of the same material as that of which the thunderbolt is made.” – Swami Vivekananda.
‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 4
 BHISHMA - AMBA
It is most commonly interpreted that Bhishma did not give respect to Amba. Some people even went to the extent portraying
that Bhishma destroyed her life. One has to read carefully and completely understand the situation. Not only that, it is very
important to evaluate a person or situation in the context of Dharms prevailing at that time. Bhishma had two brothers.
When the king of Kasi announced swayamvara for his daughers, Bhishma announces in the full court that he is taking the
princesses Amba, Ambika and Ambalika for marriage with his brother Vichitravirya. Amba does not mention anything in
the court neither to Bhishma nor to her father. Upon arriving at Hastinapura only, she
confesses with queen Satyavati about her love towards king Salva. Immediately, Bhishma
sends her back with due respect to Salva, who rejects to marry her. Amba then blames
Bhishma for all her troubles and asks him to marry her. Due to his vow to remain celibate
lifelong, he refuses. Amba approaches sage Parashurama, the Guru of Bhishma. He then
challenges Bhishma to a fight and loses the battle. Amba never reconciled even then to
her fate, did severe penance to please Lord Shiva. She gets a boon from him that she will
be the cause of Bhishma’s death. She gives up her body in the fire and is reborn as
Shikhandi. Shikhandi, though born a girl, later becomes a man and indeed assists Arjuna
in killing Bhishma in the Kurukshetra war. - Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
(Adapted from ‘Sri Mahabharata Pravachana Maha Yagnam’ Pravachanam)

BHISHMACHARYA
Bhīṣma is venerated as ‘Ācharya’. Not only did he live an austere life, but also He is a great devotee. Bhīṣma lived a celibate
and devoted his life towards Dharma, discipline and duty. Lord Krishna Himself gave the ‘Adhikāra’ (worthiness) to Bhīṣma
to narrate the entire ‘Vishnu Sahasranama Stotra’ to Pandavas in His very presence. Apart from elucidating this stotra, he
also gave ‘Anusmriti’, many dharmas that are applicable to everyone during various stages of life. He also taught polity,
commerce, economy and management to Yudhishtira. It is customary and duty to offer tarpaṇa with the following mantra
to this great soul on Magha Aṣṭami day when Bhīṣma merged with Lord Krishna.
bhīṣmaḥ śāntanavō vīraḥ satyavādī jitēndriyaḥ| ābhiradbhiravāpnōti putra pautrōcitāṁ kriyāṁ
vaiyāghra pada gōtrāya sāṅkr̥tya pravarāya ca | aputrāya dadāmyētajjalaṁ bhīṣmāya varmaṇē ॥
Then, offer arghya with below mantra
vasūnāmavatārāya śantanōrātmajāya ca| arghyaṁ dadāmi bhīṣmāya ābāla brahmacāriṇē ॥
Starting from Ekadashi till Pournima is known as ‘Bhishma Panchaka Vratam’ -
• Offer arghya to Bhishma on all these days. This grants virtuous progeny and their subsequent victory.
• Continuously recite of ‘Madhava’ on Ekadasi day and fasting.
• On this ‘Tila’ or ‘Varaha’ Dwadasi, reciting ‘Varaha Swami’ stotram confers merits equal to performing all Yagnas.
• Worship Siva and Vishnu with sesame seeds on Dwadasi day.

Pushyamasa - Scriptural Stipulations

- Presiding deity for Pushyami star is Brihaspati (Jupiter). This star is associated with Sanaisvara (Saturn). Performing even small act
of virtue to please Him grants reprieve from His malefic effects.
- Offering clothes, paddy, fan, gold, vegetables, sugar cane, cow & calf and sesame in charity is meritorious during Sankramana time.
- Performing Abhisheka to Siva and worship of Sani on Pournami day provides relief.
- One should definitely take ceremonial head bath, eat sesame and offer tarpanas to Pitru Devatas on the day of Sankranti.
- Perform ‘Dadhimanthana’ vrata on Sankranti day by worshiping Yasodha and Krishna and give give Yaśōdā kr̥ṣṇa along with milk
vessel, churning staff and other materials in charity.

Major Festivals
Jan 12, 2018 - Puṣya Śukla Ēkādaśi
Brahmasri Samavedam Ramamurty Sarmagaru Saphala Ēkādaśi, Vimala Ēkādaśi
(1931 – 2013) Jan 13, 2018 – Bhogi
Jan 14, 2018 - Makara Saṅkrānti,
Dadhi Manthana vrataṁ.
Jan 15, 2018 - Kanuma
Śrī Madhusūdanāya nama: Jan 16, 2018 – Mukkanuma, Chollaṅgi
1. Madhu Nāmāna Masuram Soodita Naaniti’ – Madhusūdana: He is called / Mauni Amāvāsya
Madhusūdana, because He killed a demon named Madhu. Jan 18, 2018 – Śyamāla Navaratri
karṇa miśrōdbhavaṁ cāpi madhu nāma mahāsuraṁ | begins.
Jan 22, 2017 – Magha Śukla Pan̄ cami
brāhmaṇō pacitiṁ kurvan jaghāna madhusūdana ||
- Śrī Pan̄ cami
tasya tāta! Vadhāddēvā! Dēvā dānava mānavā: |
Jan 24, 2017 – Ratha Saptami
Madhusūdana ityāhu: R̥ ṣayaśca janārdanaṁ || • Worship of Lord Sun bestows health,
O God! Because You killed the demon Madhu who was trying to harm Brahma, gods, luster and affluence.
demons and mortals adulate You as ‘Madhusudana’ • Offer rice pudding in a bean leaf
2.Madhu means fondness, hope, desire and greed. Fondness towards wife, house, which is cooked on cow dung cakes.
progeny, wealth etc. which is the rootcause for the endless cycle of births and deaths, • Snāna, Japa and dāna are very
otherwise known as ‘Samsara’. You shall break fetters of bondage of those who seek important on this day. Give pumpkin
refuge in You and grant them the eternal state of bliss and happiness. Hence, O that in charity.
Madhusudana! Prostrations to you. (To be continued…) Jan 25, 2017 - Bhīṣmāṣṭami

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 5

 śiva jñānaṁ
– Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.

Śiva Mahādēva
Part 25
1

A severe performer of penance, Siva is the ‘Fire of Knowledge’ with all the forms of education shining as His matted
hairlocks. Crescent moon represents immortality. His holding Fire and Water demonstrates His oneness with Universe.
‘Agni sōmātmakaṁ jagat’ – entire universe is made up of Fire and Water. He is the God who holds poison in His throat to
save the worlds. Snakes taking refuge in Siva are those Yogis who only consume air as food. Ash is the final form that remains
after all the actions are burnt out by the Fire of knowledge. Skin garment is akin to His ascetic nature.
Let’s comprehend the grandeur of that Maheswara who is the abode of all kinds of wealth –
Primordial Family man – Arthanārīśvara
Siva is worshipped in union with Shakti. Adi Sankara’s famous sloka says, “Śivavaśaktyā yuktō yibhavati śakta:..”.
Vedic traditions describe Parvati as the energy of Brahmavidya and Siva as Brahman. Agamas describe the consciousness
pervading the entire universe is the harmony of Prakriti and Purusha as Shakti and Siva.
To the amazement of even today’s scientists, the form of Arthanārīśvara elucidates all the
above facts.
Apart from Nigama and Agama, many other schools of Saivism described the nature of
Siva and Shakti in multi-faceted fashions. Omniscience, ever contentment, eternal
teaching, independence, ever existence, everlasting power – all these Shaktis are natural
and firm to Siva. ‘Parvati’ is none other than Siva’s Shakti who is ‘Sahaja dhr̥va śāśvati’ i.e.
natural, firm and permanent. Swetaswatara Upanishad mentions,
‘Parāsya śakti: Vividhaiva śrūyatē: Svābhāviki jñāna bālakriyā ca’.
Parashakti of Parameswara is described with different names such as ‘Jnana’
(knowledge), Bala (Power) and Kriya (Action).
“Umāsahāyaṁ paramēśvaraṁ vibhum trilōcanaṁ nīlakaṇṭhaṁ praśāntaṁ |
dhyātvā munirgacchati bhūtayōniṁ samasta sākṣimā tāmasa: parastāt ||”
- Kaivalyōpanishad

The Upanishad itself is mentioning that meditation of Parameswara along with Uma grants liberation. A story of
Kenōpanishad also mentions that Umadevi Herself preaches the philosophy of Siva to demi-gods.
Being the basis of every emotion, He is also the principal for family relationship. Rationale behind conjugal creation is Siva-
Shakti.
Like a seed becomes wet and two after sprouting, the one Supreme becomes two to become the cause of this world. But,
the oneness of those two is the philosophy of Arthanareeswara. (To be continued…)

Announcements
For Pravachanam CDs, ‘Rushipeetham’ Magazine subscription, other publications contact –
Hyderabad Bengaluru Rajamahendravaram Visakhapatnam Tirupati
Sri Lalitha Dhamam, Aarthi 1st Floor, Sri Vallabha Ganapati Mr Rajasekhar Madhira Smt. Vanam Sasikala
Plot# 299/300, 265/A, ‘B’ Cross, Mandiram, D.No:49-36-8, 18-12-1710,
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500062. Bengaluru – Visakhapatnam-530016,
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‘Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma’ WhaTsApp group

During these turbulent times when Hindu Dharma is being attacked from all sides, Dharma propagation has become
altogether more important than ever. Technological advances have been a great proprellor to make everyone aware of
the greatness of Hindu Dharma. The ‘Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma’ Facebook page and YouTube channel successfully
reached many aspirants and received many accolades. With the intention of reaching everyone
and also be reachable to everyone, this WhatsApp group named ‘Samavedam Shanmukha
Sarma’ is being started. Using this WhatsApp group as channel, my will is to get more close to
multitudes living in villages. To make this a reality, it is the responsibility of all of you to drive all
your contacts to join this group. Those interested in joining this group should send message
‘Jai Sriram’ to 62813 14065”. There is no limit to how many can join this group. I will be sending one or two messages
daily on Sanatana Dharma. Looking forward to get even more close to all of you and many others.
Truly Yours,
Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 6
 Sri Vallabha Ganapathi temple, Konthamuru Rajahmundry
Devotees interested in sending contributions to the temple -
BANK ACCOUNT NAME: MANDIR MAINTENANCE TRUST
ACCOUNT Number: 62507680499;
BANK NAME: STATE BANK OF INDIA;
Name of the BRANCH: KONTHAMURU;
IFS CODE NUMBER: SBHY0021806; MICR CODE: 533004108;
Nature of Account: CURRENT ACCOUNT .
Visit: www.vallabhaganapathimandir.org
Interested donors contact: Email: vallabhaganapati@gmail.com or Ph# 9949705166 / 9542122189
Darshan timings: Morning 6 am – 11 am; Evening 5 pm – 7 pm
For details, contact Sistu Rama Sastry @ 9652815577
Contact details: Address: Sri Vallabha Ganapati Trust, Near Kalyana Nagar Arch, Jangala Colony Road, Siva Kumar
Layout, Konthamuru, Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh – 533103

‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 7

 Picture Gallery

Scholarships Distribution 2017-18 by Rushipeetham Charitable Trust

As part of Rushipeetham Charitable Trust service activities, this year the distribution of scholarships to
poor students exhibiting extraordinary academic talent is conducted on November 18, 2017 at the Trust’s
office in Hyderabad. After the opening remarks of trust member Sri Konduri Bhaskara Ramanamurthy garu,
trustee Sri Marepally Suryanarayana garu conducted the proceedings narrating the wide range of service
activities performed by the Trust. Brahmasri Samavedam Shanmukha
Sarma garu, the chairman and managing director of the trust,
distributed INR 1,50,000 to 50 students of different colleges pursuing
degrees and engineering courses. In his speech, Brahmasri
Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma garu directed the students to get
involved in these kind of service activities once they settle in their
lives. He also directed them to live a life filled with devotion and
patriotism. Sri GRK Sastry garu, Sri Malladi Prasad garu, Sri JV Rao
garu and other trust staff participated in the program.

Brahmasri Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma garu at ‘GURU DHAM’

on the occasion of Sri Sadguru Sivananda Murti gari ‘Janmadina Utsavam’

Pravachanams at Warangal
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‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ © Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma 8