Udhava gita.

 The Uddhava Gita is a profound conversation between Lord Krishna and His devotee Uddhava, found within the Bhagavata Purana (Canto 11, chapters 6–29). It is similar in essence to the Bhagavad Gita, but in this discourse, Krishna instructs Uddhava on the path of liberation. Here's a chapter-wise synopsis:

Chapter 6: Uddhava's RequestUddhava expresses his desire to renounce the material world, feeling disturbed by the decline of dharma (righteousness) and the imminent departure of Lord Krishna from the world. He asks for guidance to achieve liberation and freedom from samsara (cycle of birth and death).

Chapter 7: Renunciation and the Path of DevotionKrishna begins teaching Uddhava the importance of renunciation (vairagya). He stresses that material attachments lead to bondage and suffering. Devotion to God is emphasized as the supreme path to liberation.

Chapter 8: Modes of Nature and the SelfKrishna explains the influence of the three gunas (modes of nature: sattva, rajas, and tamas) on human behavior and consciousness. The soul, however, is beyond these modes and eternal.

Chapter 9: The Universal Form and BhaktiKrishna teaches Uddhava about His universal form, encompassing all of creation. He emphasizes that devotion (bhakti) is the easiest way to realize the Supreme, more effective than intellectual pursuits or austerities.

Chapter 10: Instructions on DetachmentKrishna further elaborates on detachment from the material world. He advises Uddhava to live a life of simplicity and inner discipline, avoiding desires and egoistic attachments.

Chapter 11: The Story of the AvadhutaKrishna tells the story of an avadhuta (a wandering sage) who learned valuable lessons from nature and animals, emphasizing the need to learn from the world around us and cultivate humility, detachment, and self-realization.

Chapter 12: The Illusion of the WorldKrishna explains the transient and illusory nature of the material world (maya). He encourages Uddhava to see beyond appearances and perceive the unchanging reality of the Self.

Chapter 13: Path of Knowledge and WisdomKrishna instructs Uddhava on the difference between worldly knowledge and true wisdom. Knowledge of the Self leads to liberation, while worldly knowledge binds one to material existence.

Chapter 14: The Science of the SoulKrishna teaches Uddhava about the nature of the soul (Atman). The soul is eternal, unchanging, and beyond the body and mind. Recognizing this truth is key to attaining liberation.

Chapter 15: The Nature of GodKrishna speaks about His nature as the Supreme Being, existing beyond time, space, and creation. He reveals His divine qualities and omnipresence, emphasizing that devotion to Him leads to freedom from all fear and ignorance.

Chapter 16: Control of the MindKrishna advises Uddhava on the importance of controlling the mind. A disciplined mind leads to inner peace, while an uncontrolled mind leads to confusion and suffering. Meditation and devotion are presented as ways to gain mastery over the mind.

Chapter 17: Sannyasa (Renunciation) and KarmaKrishna explains the essence of true renunciation, which is not mere abandonment of action but freedom from attachment to the results of actions. He teaches Uddhava the importance of performing one's duties selflessly, without ego.

Chapter 18: Bhakti Yoga and Its GreatnessThis chapter focuses on bhakti yoga (the path of devotion). Krishna emphasizes that devotion to God surpasses all other spiritual practices and that by surrendering to the divine will, one can attain liberation effortlessly.

Chapter 19: The Decline of DharmaKrishna describes the effects of the Kali Yuga (the age of decline), in which dharma (righteousness) diminishes, and people become increasingly materialistic and selfish. However, He assures Uddhava that devotion and knowledge will still offer a path to salvation.

Chapter 20: Realization of the AbsoluteKrishna explains how to meditate on the Supreme Absolute (Brahman) and describes the process of attaining oneness with God through spiritual practice. He also emphasizes the importance of realizing the unity of all existence.

Chapter 21: Final Instructions on LiberationKrishna gives Uddhava final instructions on how to attain liberation through steadfast devotion, meditation, and knowledge. He encourages Uddhava to see the divine presence in everything and live in a state of constant awareness of God.

Chapter 22: The Role of the GuruKrishna highlights the importance of a spiritual teacher (guru) in guiding the seeker on the path to liberation. He explains how the guru imparts wisdom and dispels the ignorance that binds the soul to the material world.

Chapter 23: The Nature of Time and DeathKrishna explains the concept of time as an aspect of the divine, which governs the cycles of creation, preservation, and destruction. He discusses the inevitability of death and the importance of preparing for it through spiritual practice.

Chapter 24: Transcending DualitiesKrishna teaches Uddhava to transcend the dualities of life—pleasure and pain, success and failure—by remaining fixed in devotion and seeing everything as part of the divine play (lila).

Chapter 25: The Supreme GoalKrishna reveals that the supreme goal of life is to realize one’s true nature as the eternal soul and to merge in divine love with the Supreme Being. Bhakti is presented as the most direct path to this realization.

Chapter 26: The Liberation of UddhavaKrishna grants Uddhava His blessings, promising him liberation and eternal union with the divine. Uddhava, in turn, expresses his gratitude and prepares to live the life of a renounced sage.

Chapters 27-29: Final Teachings and DepartureIn these concluding chapters, Krishna recapitulates key teachings about devotion, knowledge, and renunciation. Uddhava prepares to leave, following Krishna's instructions to meditate on the divine and attain moksha (liberation).The Uddhava Gita highlights the path of bhakti (devotion) and jnana (knowledge), and emphasizes the importance of detachment, self-realization, and surrender to God. It is a timeless guide for spiritual seekers looking to overcome worldly attachments and attain liberation.

Tulasi.

 Tulsi, also known as "holy basil" (Ocimum tenuiflorum), holds a central place in Hinduism, not only as a medicinal herb but also as a sacred plant with deep spiritual and cultural significance. Referred to as "Vishnupriya" (the beloved of Lord Vishnu), tulsi is revered as a manifestation of the goddess Tulsi, a consort of Lord Vishnu, and is worshipped in Hindu homes and temples. Let us explore the religious, cultural, medicinal, and environmental significance of tulsi in Hinduism.

Religious Significance of Tulsi In Hinduism, tulsi is considered a holy plant and is associated with several deities, particularly Lord Vishnu and his avatars like Krishna and Rama. The plant is regarded as the earthly manifestation of the goddess Tulsi, who is said to have been an ardent devotee of Vishnu. According to one legend, Tulsi was originally a woman named Vrinda, the wife of a demon king named Jalandhar. Due to her unwavering devotion to Vishnu, she was blessed to be transformed into a holy plant, which Vishnu promised would forever remain dear to him. As a result, tulsi is used in almost all worship rituals, especially in ceremonies dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his incarnations.In many Hindu homes, a tulsi plant is grown in a special structure called a tulsi vrindavan, usually placed in the courtyard or near the entrance. It serves as a sacred space where prayers are offered daily. The tulsi plant is often worshipped twice a day, in the morning and evening, with water, lamps, and incense. Women especially perform rituals around the tulsi, seeking blessings for the well-being of their families.The Tulsi Vivah ceremony, celebrated during the Kartik month (October-November), symbolizes the wedding of Tulsi (goddess) with Lord Vishnu or his avatar Krishna. This ritual marriage marks the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of the Hindu wedding season, signifying the sacredness of marriage and fertility.Cultural and Symbolic ImportanceTulsi's cultural role extends beyond its religious significance. The plant symbolizes purity, fidelity, and spiritual devotion. In many Hindu traditions, tulsi leaves are indispensable during rituals and pujas (worship ceremonies). They are often placed on food offerings to the gods, symbolizing sanctity and purity. Tulsi leaves are also used to sanctify water, turning it into tirtha (holy water) for purifying the body and soul.The tulsi plant holds a special place in Indian homes, where it is believed to bring prosperity and ward off evil forces. The presence of tulsi in the household is seen as an indicator of auspiciousness and divine protection. Many believe that offering water to the tulsi plant and lighting a lamp near it can cleanse the environment of negative energy.Tulsi also symbolizes the essence of satya (truth) and dharma (righteousness). It is said that people who offer tulsi leaves to Vishnu will be freed from sins and attain salvation (moksha). Tulsi is also used in cremation ceremonies, where its leaves are placed in the mouth of the deceased to ensure a smooth journey to the afterlife and to prevent the soul from wandering.Medicinal SignificanceBeyond its religious and cultural importance, tulsi has been widely used in Ayurveda, the ancient system of Indian medicine. Known for its myriad health benefits, tulsi is called the "Queen of Herbs" due to its potent healing properties. It is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and adaptogenic properties.Tulsi is commonly used to treat a range of ailments, including respiratory disorders like cough, asthma, and bronchitis, as well as digestive issues, fevers, and skin diseases. Its leaves are often chewed to boost immunity, relieve stress, and improve mental clarity. Tulsi tea, made by steeping its leaves in hot water, is a popular remedy for colds, flu, and headaches.In Ayurveda, tulsi is also considered a rejuvenating herb that balances the doshas (the three fundamental bodily energies in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). Its use is believed to promote longevity and spiritual well-being.Environmental SignificanceThe environmental significance of tulsi is rooted in its ability to purify the air. Tulsi releases oxygen throughout the day and night, making it an important plant for improving indoor air quality. It absorbs toxins from the atmosphere, thus contributing to a healthier living environment.In the context of Hindu ecology, tulsi is regarded as a plant that nurtures life and promotes sustainability. By encouraging the cultivation and worship of tulsi, Hindu traditions reinforce the message of living in harmony with nature. Tulsi serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between human beings, the divine, and the natural world.ConclusionTulsi is much more than just a medicinal herb in Hinduism; it is a symbol of faith, purity, and devotion. Its religious, cultural, medicinal, and environmental significance has made it an integral part of Hindu life and spirituality. By growing tulsi in homes and temples, Hindus cultivate not only a sacred plant but also a spiritual practice that embodies reverence for nature and the divine. The rituals and traditions associated with tulsi continue to be a source of spiritual nourishment, promoting the values of health, harmony, and holiness in daily life.

Attribute

 

Arjuna asked Lord Krishna to explain His glories and attributes. The Lord replied that they are infinite and cannot be thoroughly described. In Chapter X of the Bhagavad Gita, ‘Manifestations of Divine Glories’, the Lord explains some of His prominent attributes. Valayapettai Sri Ramachariar said in a discourse that this chapter is called ‘Vibhuthi Adhyaya’. The Lord says that of the Adityas, He is Vishnu; of luminous bodies, the radiant Sun; and among the constellations, He is the Moon. He is the beginning, the middle, and the end of all beings.

Of the Vedas, He is Sama Veda; of sense organs, He is the mind; of Rudras, He is Sankara; of the Yakshas, He is Kubera (the Lord of wealth); of the mountains, Meru; of generals, He is Skanda; of waters, the ocean.

Of words, He is the single-lettered ‘Om’; of immovable things, the Himalayas; among celestials, He is Narada; of elephants, He is Airavatha.

Of weapons, He is the thunderbolt; of cows, Kamadhenu; of serpents (single-hooded), He is Vasuki; of snakes (with many hoods), He is Anantha.

Of subduers, He is Yama, the God of death.

Of beasts, He is the Lion; and of birds, Garuda. Of moving things, He is the wind; and of rivers, He is the Ganga.

Of letters, He is the letter ‘a’; of mantras, He is the Gayathri; of months, He is Marghazhi; of seasons, He is the season of flowers (Vasantha ruthu); of Pandavas, Arjuna; and of sages, He is Veda Vyasa.

The lord concludes that whatever strength, splendor or energy acquired comes from a fragment of his power.

The lord adorned with tulasi.

In Padma Purana, Lord Narayana says the following are the places He likes to be in: Sri Vaikuntha, Surya mandala, Vedanta, self-manifested kshetras and tulasi. The Lord tells tulasi that anyone who dislikes her is His enemy. If people use tulasi leaves in their daily aradhana, then moksha is guaranteed. Padma Purana says the Lord wore tulasi from head to toe, an honour given only to tulasi, said P.T. Seshadri in a discourse. In Nammazhvar’s Thiruvaimozhi, there is a pasuram which says that He wore tulasi on His shoulders, chest, head and feet.

Nampillai’s commentary says that just as the Lord had great affection for tulasi, likewise, He had great affection for Nammazhvar too. Hence, He showed to Nammazhvar, His divine body adorned with tulasi. Nampillai explains why Nammazhvar gave so many details. Lord Narayana is a mahaveera. To draw attention to His valour, Nammazhvar spoke of tulasi on His powerful shoulders. The chest is mentioned, because Goddess Lakshmi resides there. To show that He is the Paramatma, Nammazhvar said that He wore tulasi on His head. His feet are the refuge of bhaktas. So, He wore tulasi on His feet, when He showed His divine form to Nammazhvar. Verses of the Azhvars can be understood through the commentaries. For instance, when we read Nammazhvar’s pasuram, we might wonder why Nammazhvar spoke of tulasi on His head, chest etc, when he could just have said that the Lord wore tulasi. Nampillai’s commentary throws light on the verse.

6000

 Ancient Hindu text Rig Veda mentions solar eclipse that took place 6,000 years ago, find astronomers

The mention of total solar eclipse was found in Rig Veda, making it the oldest known depiction of an eclipse.

There are various mentions of eclipse in Rig Veda.There are various mentions of eclipse in Rig Veda. 
Astronomers recently stumbled across what might be the oldest mention of a solar eclipse. In the ancient Hindu text Rig Veda, they discovered mention of an eclipse that occurred approximately 6,000 years ago.

Compiled around 1500 B.C, the Rig Veda is a collection of sayings and hymns spanning various religious and philosophical schools along with records of historical events. While most of these events are from when the text was written, some of them date back even further.

In the Journal of Astronomical History and Heritage, astronomers Mayank Vahia from the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research and Mitsuru Soma from the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan reported that they found mentions of an ancient eclipse.

Various passages in the Rig Veda have mentioned the location of the rising sun during the vernal equinox, with one reference describing that the event occured in Orion while another one says it happened in the Pleiades.

With the Earth spinning on its axis, the relative position of these important astronomical events change as well. Currently, the vernal equinox is in Pisces, but it was on Orion somewhere around 4500 B.C and the Pleiades around 2230 B.C. This makes it possible for astronomers to find the time period when the event occurred.

While the passages that describe the eclipse do not mention the phenomena, they do talk about the sun being “pierced” with darkness and gloom and that the evil beings had caused the sun’s “magic arts to vanish”. For those wondering, these descriptions have nothing to do with the story of Rahu and Ketu as they are more modern myths.

Passages following these mentions also helped astronomers narrow the time frame of the total solar eclipse, suggesting that the event occurred three days before the autumnal equinox and that it must have taken place where the writers of the Rig Veda lived.

According to the astronomers, there are only two possible dates when the event must have taken place – October 22, 4202 B.C. and October 19, 3811 B.C. Both of these dates are far more older than the mentions of the oldest known record of solar eclipses.

9 bg.

 Chapter 9 of the Bhagavad Gita is titled "Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga," which translates to "The Yoga of Royal Knowledge and Royal Secret." This chapter is considered one of the most important in the Gita, as it reveals the essence of Krishna's teachings.Here’s a brief explanation of the key verses in Chapter 9:Verse 9.1-9.2: Krishna begins by explaining that this knowledge is the king of sciences and the most profound secret. It is the purest knowledge, which is directly attainable, easy to practice, and everlasting.Verse 9.3: Krishna states that those who do not have faith in this knowledge cannot attain Him and remain in the cycle of birth and death.Verse 9.4-9.7: Krishna explains that everything in the universe is pervaded by Him, yet He is not confined by it. He creates, sustains, and dissolves the universe, but remains unattached.Verse 9.8-9.10: Krishna describes how He governs the universe through His divine energy, maintaining the natural order and the cycle of creation and destruction.Verse 9.11-9.12: Krishna explains that people who are deluded by ignorance do not recognize His divine nature and thus, fall into suffering.Verse 9.13-9.14: Those who know Krishna’s divine nature engage in unwavering devotion, constantly worshipping Him with love and reverence.Verse 9.15-9.19: Krishna discusses various forms of worship. Some worship Him with knowledge, others with rituals, while some seek worldly gains or liberation. However, Krishna declares that He is the ultimate goal of all these forms of worship.Verse 9.20-9.21: Krishna describes how those who perform rituals as prescribed in the Vedas attain heaven, enjoy celestial pleasures, but eventually return to the mortal world once their merits are exhausted.Verse 9.22: Krishna promises that He personally takes care of the needs of those who worship Him with exclusive devotion.Verse 9.23-9.25: Krishna explains that those who worship other gods with faith actually worship Him in an indirect way, but they attain the gods they worship, not Krishna Himself.Verse 9.26-9.27: Krishna emphasizes that even a simple offering made with love and devotion is accepted by Him. He advises Arjuna to dedicate all his actions to Him, making them acts of devotion.Verse 9.28-9.30: Krishna declares that even a person who commits sins can become virtuous if he wholeheartedly takes refuge in Krishna. Such a person should be considered saintly because of his sincere devotion.Verse 9.31: Krishna assures that His devotee will never perish, promising protection and liberation to those who surrender to Him.Verse 9.32-9.34: Krishna concludes the chapter by stating that anyone, regardless of birth, gender, or social status, can attain Him through devotion. He invites Arjuna to surrender his mind and heart to Him, guaranteeing liberation and eternal union.This chapter is a powerful reminder of the inclusivity of divine grace and the transformative power of unwavering devotion.

Nerelge 2024.

 A small sleepy village near Belur and Javgal.

Annual festival very well organized good crowd  enjoyed the day dedicated to chinnakesava.

Formula.

 Indian first road race on four streets of Chennai. The place is just so crazily charged the streets having Bill board size TV covering the race people are so excited. Lots of traffic  roads cordoned off.

Excitement everywhere. 

 

We just passed that area where the race track runs on the four main roads of Chennai. Huge billboard size TV (displaying what's going on on the track)around the area for people to watch the live show. It was exciting just being in the area.

L

This is a old photo when one formula car was on display in our building. 

https://photos.app.goo.gl/WUJTcFpJ1nQdzNU16