Guide philosopher.

The Teachings of Swami Vivekananda: A Guide to Spiritual and Practical Living

Swami Vivekananda, the great Indian monk and philosopher, played a crucial role in revitalizing Hinduism and introducing Vedantic teachings to the world. His life was dedicated to the spiritual awakening of individuals and the upliftment of society. His teachings encompass a broad spectrum of wisdom, blending spirituality, self-discipline, service to humanity, and a scientific outlook on religion.

1. The Divinity of Man

One of the core teachings of Swami Vivekananda is that every individual is inherently divine. He emphasized that the goal of human life is to manifest this divinity through various paths—whether it be knowledge (Jnana Yoga), devotion (Bhakti Yoga), action (Karma Yoga), or meditation (Raja Yoga). He rejected the idea of a sinful human nature and instead taught that we are all sparks of the Divine, capable of realizing our highest potential.

Instead of blindly following religious practices, one can cultivate self-discipline, meditation, and mindfulness to experience inner divinity.

Recognizing that true spirituality is about self-exploration rather than external rituals.

2. Universal Religion and Religious Harmony

Swami Vivekananda believed in the unity of all religions. He declared that different faiths are merely different paths leading to the same ultimate truth. His famous statement, “As different streams having their sources in different places all mingle their water in the sea, so, O Lord, the different paths which men take... all lead to Thee”, illustrates his vision of religious harmony. He condemned dogmatism and encouraged mutual respect among religions.

Encouraging respect and appreciation for different cultures and religions.

Promoting harmony and dialogue rather than division and conflicts.

3. Faith in Oneself

A central theme in his teachings was the importance of self-confidence and faith in oneself. He repeatedly told his followers, “You cannot believe in God until you believe in yourself.” He urged people to overcome fear and weakness, emphasizing that strength is life, while weakness is death. For him, true spirituality meant recognizing one’s inner power and using it to serve humanity.

Overcoming self-doubt and fear by cultivating confidence and a positive mindset.

Developing leadership qualities and taking responsibility for societal issues.

4. Service to Humanity as Worship

Swami Vivekananda redefined spirituality by equating service to humanity with service to God. He said, “They alone live who live for others, the rest are more dead than alive.” He encouraged people to see God in the poor, the sick, and the suffering, emphasizing that serving them was the highest form of worship. This idea led to the establishment of the Ramakrishna Mission, which continues his legacy of selfless service.

Volunteering and contributing to society in meaningful ways.

Practicing kindness and selflessness in everyday interactions.

5. Education as the Foundation of a Nation

He was a strong advocate of education, believing that it should aim at character-building and the development of inner strength. He said, “We want that education by which character is formed, strength of mind is increased, the intellect is expanded, and by which one can stand on one's own feet.” He promoted practical and moral education, not just academic knowledge.

Focusing on skill development, critical thinking, and ethical values in education.

Encouraging holistic learning rather than mere memorization of facts.

6. The Power of Concentration and Mind Control

Swami Vivekananda emphasized that a focused mind is the key to success in any field. He advised young people to develop concentration through meditation and disciplined study. He illustrated this idea with the story of Arjuna in the Mahabharata, who saw only the bird’s eye while aiming his arrow. He often said, “Take up one idea. Make that one idea your life—think of it, dream of it, live on that idea.”

Practicing meditation and mindfulness to improve focus and efficiency.

Setting clear goals and working towards them with determination.

7. Strength and Fearlessness

He often used the phrase “Be fearless” in his speeches, inspiring people to face life’s challenges with courage. He taught that fear comes from ignorance, and once we understand our true divine nature, fear disappears. His famous words, “Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached”, continue to inspire millions to pursue their dreams relentlessly.

Cultivating mental and physical strength through positive habits and self-discipline.

Facing difficulties with courage rather than avoiding challenges.

8. Women’s Empowerment

Swami Vivekananda was a strong advocate for women’s education and empowerment. He believed that a nation could not progress if its women were not given equal opportunities.

Promoting equal rights, education, and opportunities for women in every sector.

Raising awareness against discrimination and societal biases.

9. Global Brotherhood and Interfaith Dialogue

His famous Chicago address emphasized the unity of religions. He promoted universal acceptance rather than mere tolerance, believing that every faith contributes to the greater truth.

Encouraging global cooperation and peace among diverse communities.

Practicing inclusivity and understanding in religious and cultural interactions.

10. Work is Worship – The Karma Yoga Principle

Swami Vivekananda encouraged selfless work (Karma Yoga) without attachment to rewards. He taught that every action should be performed as an offering to the divine.

Maintaining sincerity and integrity in professional and personal life.

Finding fulfillment in the work itself rather than just the results.

Swami Vivekananda’s teachings are not just philosophical ideas but practical guidelines for a purposeful life. His call to “Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached” urges us to break free from ignorance, weakness, and complacency.

By embracing self-discipline, service, strength, and knowledge, individuals can lead a life of fulfillment, while societies can progress toward harmony and enlightenment. Whether one is a student, professional, leader, or spiritual seeker, his wisdom provides timeless inspiration.

Swami Vivekananda did not merely preach; he lived his teachings. By applying his principles in our daily lives, we can truly honor his legacy and contribute to a better world.

Holi.

 Holi, the festival of colors, is one of the most vibrant and joyous celebrations in Hindu tradition. It marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes the victory of good over evil.

1. Victory of Prahlada over Hiranyakashipu – The most popular legend associated with Holi is that of Prahlada, a devotee of Lord Vishnu, and his tyrannical father, Hiranyakashipu. The demon king wanted everyone to worship him, but his son remained devoted to Vishnu. Enraged, Hiranyakashipu ordered his sister, Holika, who had a boon that made her immune to fire, to sit in flames with Prahlada in her lap. However, due to divine intervention, Holika was burnt while Prahlada emerged unscathed. This event is commemorated by the Holika Dahan (bonfire) on the eve of Holi.

2. Lord Krishna and Radha’s Playful Colors – Another significant aspect is the celebration of Holi in relation to Lord Krishna and Radha. According to legend, young Krishna, who had a dark complexion, was worried about whether the fair-skinned Radha would accept him. His mother, Yashoda, playfully suggested that he apply color to Radha’s face. This became a tradition, symbolizing love, joy, and breaking social barriers.

3. Arrival of Spring and Harvest Festival – Holi also marks the arrival of spring and the end of winter. It is a time of renewal and agricultural prosperity, celebrated with songs, dances, and festive foods. Farmers rejoice in the new harvest, making it a festival of abundance.p

Holi is a two-day festival with distinct rituals:

1. Holika Dahan (Chhoti Holi) – The Bonfire Ritual

On the eve of Holi, people light bonfires to symbolize the burning of evil (Holika) and the triumph of righteousness (Prahlada).

Prayers are offered, and people circle the fire while chanting mantras and throwing grains or coconuts into the flames as offerings.

2. Rangwali Holi (Main Day of Colors)

The next morning, people celebrate by smearing each other with colored powders (gulal) and spraying colored water.

Traditional folk songs, dhol (drums), and dancing create an atmosphere of joy.

Special sweets like gujiya, malpua, and thandai (a spiced milk drink) are prepared.

People visit friends and family, strengthening bonds of love and friendship.

Regional Variations

Barsana’s Lathmar Holi – In Barsana (Radha’s village), women playfully beat men with sticks (lathis), symbolizing Radha’s playful teasing of Krishna.

Braj Ki Holi – In Vrindavan and Mathura, Holi is celebrated for over a week with processions, temple rituals, and vibrant colors.

Shantiniketan Holi (West Bengal) – Inspired by Rabindranath Tagore, this version of Holi (called Basanta Utsav) involves cultural performances, poetry, and dance.

Dol Jatra (Bengal, Odisha, Assam) – People carry an idol of Lord Krishna in a procession while singing devotional songs.

Holi, beyond its religious significance, promotes unity, joy, and the spirit of forgiveness, making it one of the most beloved festivals in India and among Hindu communities worldwide.

Jagannath.

 When Ramanujacharya visited jaganath puri he noticed that the lord was waking up an any time the rituals went on till late at night. There was no order followed. He was agust at the way the pandaris were taking liberties with the Lord and their service. He and his 5000 followers overnight took over the running of the temple's of purity bring about some order. Everything was settled all went smooth for about three months. But it is said thatvtge Lord missed seeing his devotees dance in a trance. He tried to reason with Ramanujacharya. But knowing him he decided to simply transport the Acharya and his followers to a place in Andhra overnight and chided Ramanujacharya that he liked the dance and rituals which were earlier  followed there. Though the efforts of Sri Ramanujacharya did bring some order in running the temple. 

Sri Ramanujacharya, the great proponent of Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, had a significant yet lesser-known connection with the Jagannath Temple in Puri. His visit to Puri is said to have influenced the temple's practices, although his philosophy did not fully integrate into the temple's traditions.

Ramanujacharya’s Visit to Puri

During his extensive travels across India to establish the doctrine of Vishishtadvaita, Sri Ramanujacharya visited the Jagannath Temple in Puri. His primary concern was the temple’s rituals, which, at the time, were influenced by Tantra and other esoteric traditions. As a strict follower of Pancharatra Agama and Vedic traditions, he sought to reform some of the practices to align them with Vaishnavism.

Attempts to Reform the Temple Rituals

According to some legends, Ramanujacharya wanted to introduce stricter Vaishnavite practices in the temple, similar to those followed in Sri Rangam and other Vishnu temples. However, the existing traditions of the temple, based on tribal and tantric influences, were deeply rooted, and the priests resisted any changes.

It is believed that Lord Jagannath Himself intervened in a divine way. Some versions of the story say that the Lord directed Ramanujacharya to leave Puri, indicating that the temple's unique traditions were part of His divine will. Others say that Ramanujacharya was mysteriously transported overnight to a distant place, possibly Srikurmam in Andhra Pradesh, where he continued his teachings.

Despite the resistance, Ramanujacharya's visit left a lasting impact on some Vaishnava traditions in Odisha. The influence of Vishishtadvaita can still be seen in some sects of Odia Vaishnavism, though the Jagannath temple continued to follow its traditional rituals.

While Jagannath worship remained distinct from Sri Vaishnavism, Ramanujacharya’s emphasis on devotion (bhakti) and service to the Lord resonates with the core beliefs of Puri’s spiritual tradition.

L 40.

 

Shree Laxmi Chalisa (English)

II Doha II

Maatu Lakshmi Kari Kripa, Karo Hridaye Mein Vaas II

Manokamana Siddh Kari,  Purvahu meri Aas II

II Soratha II

Yahi Mor Ardas, Haath Jod Vinti Karu II

Sab Vidhi Karo Suvas, Jai Janani Jagdambika II

II Chaupaai II

Sindu Suta Main Sumirau Tohi । Gyan, Buddhi, Vidya De Mohi ॥
Tum Samaan Nahi Koi Upkari । Sab Vidhi Puravahu Aas Hamari ॥
Jai Jai Jai Jagat Janani Jagadamba । Sabki Tum Hi Ho Avalamba ॥
Tum Hi Ho Sab Ghat Ghat Vaasi । Vinti Yahi Hamari Khaasi ॥
Jag janani Jai Sindhu Kumari । Dinan ki Tum Ho Hitakari ॥
Vinavo Nitya Tumahin Maharani । Kripa Karo Jag Janani Bhavani ॥
Kehi Vidhi Stuti Karaun Tihari । Sudhi Lijai Aparadh Bisari ॥
Kripa Drishti Chitavo Mam Ori । Jag Janani Vinti Sun Mori ॥
Gyan Buddhi Sab Sukh Ki Data । Sankat Haro Hamari Mata ॥
Kshir Sindhu Jab Vishnu Mathayo । Chaudah Ratna Sindhu Mein Payo ॥
Chaudah Ratna Mein Tum Sukharasi । Seva Kiyo Prabu Bani Dasi ॥
Jab Jab Janma Prabhu Jahan Linha । Roop Badal Tah Seva Kinha ॥
Swayan Vishnu Jab Nar Tanu Dhara । Linheu Avadhapuri Avatara ॥
Tab Tum Pragat Janakapur Maahi । Seva Kiyo Hridaya Pulakahin ॥
Apanayo Tohi Antaryami । Vishva Vidit Tribhuvan Ke Swami ॥
Tum Sam Prabal Shakti Nahin Aani । Kahan Lau Mahima Kahaun Bakhani ॥
Man Kram Vachan Karai Sevakai । Man Ichchhita Vanchhit Phal Pai ॥
Taji Chhal Kapat Aur Chaturai । Pujahin Vividh Bhanti Man Lai ॥
Aur Haal Main Kahaun Bujhai । Jo Yah Paath Karai Man Lai ॥
Tako Koi Kashta Nohi Hoi । Mann Ichhita Pave Phal Soi ॥
Trahi Trahi Jai Dukh Nivarini । Taap Paap Bhav Bandhan Harini ॥
Jo yeh Chalisa Pade Padave । Dhyana Lagakar Sune Sunavai ॥
Tako Koi Na Rog Satavai । Putra Aadi Dhan Sampatti Pavai ॥
Putrahin Aru Sampatti Hina । Andh Badhir Kodhi Ati Dina ॥
Vipra Bolaya Kai Paath Karavai । Shanka Dil Mein Kabhi Na Lavai ॥
Paath Karavai Din Chalisa । Ta Par Kripa Karain Gaurisa ॥
Sukh Sampatti Bahut So Pavai । Kami Nahin Kaahu Ki Avai ॥
Barah Maas Karai Jo Puja । Tehi Sam Dhanya Aur Nahin Duja ॥
Pratidin Paath Karai Man Mahin । Un Sam Koi Jag Mein Kahun Naahin ॥
Bahu vidhi Kya Mai Karo Badai । Leya Pariksha Dhyana Lagai ॥
Kari Vishwas Karai Vrat Nema । Hoy Siddha Upajai Ur Prema ॥
Jai Jai Jai Lakshmi Bhavani । Sab Mein Vyapita Ho Gun Khaani ॥
Tumharo Tej Prabal Jag Mahin । Tum Sam Kou Dayalu Kahun Naahin ॥
Mohi Anath Ki Sudhi Ab Lijai । Sankat Kaati Bhakti Mohi Dijai ॥
Bhul Chuk Kari Kshama Hamari । Darshan Dajai Dasha Nihari ॥
Bin Darshan Vyakul Adhikari । Tumahi Achhat Dukh Sahate Bhaari ॥
Nahin Mohin Gyan Buddhi Hai Tan Mein । Sab Janat Ho Apane Man Mein ॥
Roop Chaturbhuja Karake Dharan । Kashta Mor Ab Karahu Nivaran ॥
Kehi Prakar Main Karaun Badai । Gyan Buddhi Mohin Nahin Adhikai ॥

॥ Doha ॥

Trahi Trahi Dukh Harini, Haro Vegi Sab Tras ।
Jayati Jayati Jai Lakshmi, Karo Shatru Ko Naash ॥
Ramdas Dhari Dhyan Nit, Vinay Karat Kar Jor ।
Maatu Lakshmi Daas Par, Karahu Daya Ki Kor ॥

॥ Iti Shri Lakshmi Chalisa Sampurnam ॥

Jaahat kaha.

 The song "Ja Kaha Ho Akeli Gori" by Kesarbai Kerkar is a classical Hindustani composition. Kesarbai Kerkar was a legendary singer of the Jaipur-Atrauli gharana, known for her mastery of khayal and her powerful yet intricate vocal expressions. The Golden Record that was sent into space aboard the Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 spacecraft in 1977, during the Carter administration  This record contains sounds and music from Earth, intended to represent human culture to any potential extraterrestrial life.

One of the tracks on the Golden Record is a Hindustani classical piece by Kesarbai Kerkar, titled "Jaat Kahan Ho Akeli Gori" in Raga Bhairavi. This song is still traveling through space aboard the Voyager spacecraft, which have now left the solar system and entered interstellar space.

While there is no direct way to confirm if the song is still "playing," the record is intact, and if extraterrestrials ever find it, they might be able to listen to it. This makes Kesarbai Kerkar's voice one of the most distant human sounds in the universe.

Ranchoodji

 The title "Ranchodji" is one of the many epithets of Lord Krishna, specifically referring to an episode from his life where he strategically retreated from battle. The name "Ranchod" means "one who left the battlefield" (from Ran meaning battlefield and chod meaning to leave). This story is primarily associated with Krishna’s encounter with the formidable king Kala Yavana and his divine strategy to protect his people.

The Story of Ranchodji

During Krishna’s rule in Mathura, the evil king Jarāsandha, father-in-law of the late Kamsa, repeatedly attacked Mathura to avenge Kamsa's death. Though Krishna and Balarama defeated him multiple times, he kept returning with larger forces. To make matters worse, Kala Yavana, a mighty and cruel warrior from the Yavana (Greek or Persian) kingdom, invaded Mathura with a massive army, instigated by Narada and encouraged by Jarāsandha.

Seeing the danger to his people, Krishna devised a strategy. Instead of engaging in a direct battle that could cost countless lives, he chose to lead Kala Yavana away from Mathura. Krishna left the battlefield unarmed and started walking. The arrogant Kala Yavana, believing Krishna was fleeing in fear, followed him.

Krishna led him deep into a mysterious cave, where a great sage-king named Muchukunda had been sleeping for ages. Muchukunda had received a boon from the Devas that whoever disturbed his sleep would be burned to ashes by his mere glance.

Unaware of this, Kala Yavana entered the cave and mistook the sleeping Muchukunda for Krishna. He kicked him to wake him up, and the moment Muchukunda opened his eyes, Kala Yavana was reduced to ashes.

Krishna, smiling at his perfect execution of divine strategy, blessed Muchukunda and returned to his people. However, knowing that Jarāsandha would not give up his attacks, Krishna decided to move his people to a safer land. He led the Yadavas across the ocean and established the grand city of Dwaraka, a well-fortified kingdom on the western coast of India.

The Meaning of "Ranchodji"

Though "Ranchod" means one who left the battlefield, in this case, Krishna did not leave out of fear but out of divine wisdom and strategic foresight. He knew that a true king protects his people rather than engaging in unnecessary battles. Instead of a head-on war, he used intelligence to eliminate the enemy without bloodshed.

This title "Ranchodji" became a beloved name for Krishna, particularly in Gujarat and Rajasthan, where devotees revere him as the deity of Dwaraka. Even today, the famous Ranchodrai Temple in Dakor, Gujarat, is dedicated to Lord Krishna under this title.

This story highlights Krishna’s diplomacy, wisdom, and his unwavering commitment to dharma, making Ranchodji one of his most celebrated names in history.

Dust