Agramantavya.

 The Sanskrit word Agramantavya (अग्रमन्तव्य) is a term that signifies "one who should be followed" or "someone who is worthy of being followed." It refers to a person or ideal who leads by example, one whose actions, values, and principles inspire others to emulate them. Such a person stands at the forefront of society or a group, guiding others through their wisdom, integrity, leadership, and courage.

In various spiritual, philosophical, and even secular contexts, Agramantavya represents leaders, teachers, or individuals whose paths are considered worthy of being followed by others. These individuals are usually characterized by qualities such as righteousness, wisdom, moral strength, and a clear vision, making them ideal role models.

Elaboration on Agramantavya:

Agramantavya is not just a title for any leader or influential person. It specifically denotes those who are morally upright, wise, and act in ways that are beneficial to the larger community or the world. To be considered an Agramantavya, one must possess virtues that inspire trust, respect, and admiration, thus making them a guiding force for others. Their words and actions must align with higher principles of truth, justice, and compassion.

Key Qualities of an Agramantavya:

1. Moral Integrity: An Agramantavya lives in accordance with ethical principles, serving as a moral compass for others.

2. Wisdom: They possess deep knowledge and insight, which enables them to guide others with clarity and foresight.

3. Leadership: They exhibit strong leadership, often taking initiative and responsibility, making decisions that benefit not just themselves but others as well.

4. Compassion: Their actions are motivated by the welfare of others, not personal gain.

5. Selflessness: An Agramantavya often places the needs of others above their own and serves with a sense of duty (dharma).

Now, let’s look at some examples from ancient texts, history, and modern life to illustrate the concept of Agramantavya.

Examples of Agramantavya:

1. Lord Rama (From the Ramayana):

Lord Rama, the central character of the Ramayana, is often considered the epitome of Agramantavya because of his unwavering adherence to dharma (righteousness) in all aspects of his life.

Example:

When Lord Rama was unjustly exiled from Ayodhya, he accepted the decision with grace and upheld the honor of his father’s promise. Even when faced with hardship in the forest, his dedication to duty, respect for his elders, and commitment to truth never wavered.

Throughout his life, Lord Rama demonstrated ideals of a king, a son, a husband, and a warrior that were deeply rooted in virtue, compassion, and justice. His qualities made him the ideal ruler, often called Rājarshi (a sage-like king), and a perfect example for others to follow.

Why Rama is Agramantavya: Rama's life teaches individuals the importance of living by principles, even when circumstances are adverse. His unwavering commitment to truth, sacrifice, and justice makes him a timeless role model, showing how one should lead a life of dharma. His conduct is so exemplary that people still seek to follow his footsteps, and many even say, "Rāmō vigrahavān dharmaḥ" ("Rama is the embodiment of dharma").

2. Mahatma Gandhi (From Modern History):

Mahatma Gandhi, known as the leader of India’s non-violent independence movement, exemplifies Agramantavya in the modern era. His leadership and values made him a guiding force not only for India but also for global movements focused on peace, civil rights, and social justice.

Example:

Gandhi led India’s freedom struggle through Ahimsa (non-violence) and Satyagraha (insistence on truth). Despite immense challenges, he never wavered from his principles of truth and non-violence, even in the face of oppressive British colonial rule.

His dedication to living simply, his self-discipline, and his commitment to the welfare of all, especially the oppressed, made him a leader whose life and actions were worthy of emulation. Gandhi's methods were not just strategic but deeply rooted in moral and ethical foundations.

Why Gandhi is Agramantavya: Gandhi’s approach to leadership was grounded in principles that transcended politics. His personal integrity, ability to lead by example, and self-sacrifice in the service of others earned him the admiration of millions. His life demonstrated that the path of non-violence and truth is powerful and can inspire change, making him a leader whom others followed not out of compulsion but out of respect for his values.

3. Lord Krishna (From the Mahabharata):

Lord Krishna, one of the central figures of the Mahabharata, is another prime example of Agramantavya. His actions, wisdom, and leadership, especially during the Kurukshetra war, make him an ideal guide for humanity.

Example:

In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna serves as Arjuna’s charioteer and spiritual guide. When Arjuna is filled with doubt and confusion about fighting in the battle, Krishna delivers profound teachings on life, duty, righteousness, and the nature of the self.

Krishna’s role as an advisor and strategist in the Mahabharata demonstrated his wisdom in guiding the Pandavas toward victory without compromising on principles. His teachings in the Gita, especially the concept of Nishkama Karma (selfless action without attachment to the fruits), are revered as timeless wisdom.

Why Krishna is Agramantavya: Krishna’s guidance in the Mahabharata demonstrates his profound understanding of life’s complexities and the importance of dharma (righteous action). His teachings transcend time and remain relevant for anyone seeking clarity in life. His ability to balance compassion, wisdom, and justice makes him someone who is followed not just for his spiritual teachings but also for his worldly advice.

Modern Context of Agramantavya:

In modern times, Agramantavya can refer to leaders, mentors, or individuals whose actions inspire others to pursue positive change. This could be a teacher whose wisdom transforms students’ lives, a leader in social reform, or an environmental activist who motivates people to live sustainably.

Nelson Mandela: Like Gandhi, Mandela led South Africa's anti-apartheid movement through non-violence and reconciliation. His moral strength and ability to forgive made him an inspirational leader, worthy of following.

Malala Yousafzai: As an advocate for girls’ education and women's rights, Malala’s courage and activism have made her an inspiration for millions globally, especially young girls seeking to overcome oppression.

Conclusion:

Agramantavya represents those who lead by example, whose actions and values are worthy of being followed by others. Historical figures like Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and Mahatma Gandhi exemplify this concept through their adherence to principles, selflessness, wisdom, and compassion. Such individuals become guiding lights, showing others the path of righteousness, courage, and integrity. In every era, there are those whose lives stand as testimony to the power of good leadership, making them worthy of being called Agramantavya, and they inspire countless others to walk the same path.

Saranagata.

 Śaraṇāgata (शरणागत) is a Sanskrit term that means "one who has sought refuge" or "someone who has surrendered". In spiritual and philosophical contexts, it refers to an individual who surrenders to a higher power (such as God) for protection, guidance, or liberation. The concept of śaraṇāgati or complete surrender is central in many Indian spiritual traditions, particularly in the Bhakti (devotional) movements and texts like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Bhagavad Gita.

Śaraṇāgata embodies the principle of relying entirely on the grace and protection of a higher force, letting go of one's ego, desires, and efforts, and trusting that the divine will take care of them. It implies a profound faith and surrender to divine will, knowing that the higher power will protect and guide the individual in times of difficulty, danger, or spiritual uncertainty.

Three Key Examples of Śaraṇāgata

1. Vibhishana’s Surrender to Lord Rama (From the Ramayana): One of the most iconic examples of śaraṇāgati is found in the Ramayana, where Vibhishana, the younger brother of the demon king Ravana, seeks refuge in Lord Rama.

Story:

Vibhishana, a righteous soul, was disillusioned with his brother Ravana’s wickedness and refusal to return Sita to Lord Rama. Despite being a part of Ravana’s kingdom, Vibhishana chose to leave his brother and seek protection from Lord Rama.

When Vibhishana arrived at Lord Rama’s camp, some of Rama’s allies, including Sugriva, were suspicious and suggested rejecting him, thinking he might be a spy. However, Rama declared that anyone who comes seeking refuge must be protected, regardless of their past or circumstances.

Rama accepted Vibhishana with open arms and granted him protection, later crowning him as the king of Lanka after Ravana’s defeat.

Lesson: Vibhishana’s complete surrender and trust in Lord Rama represent the essence of śaraṇāgati. Despite being from the enemy’s side, his genuine surrender was met with acceptance and grace. Lord Rama’s unconditional protection illustrates how the divine welcomes anyone who approaches with sincere faith and surrender, regardless of their past actions.

2. Draupadi’s Surrender to Lord Krishna (From the Mahabharata): Another profound example of śaraṇāgata is found in the Mahabharata during Draupadi’s disrobing incident in the Kaurava court.

Story:

After the Pandavas lost everything in a deceitful game of dice, Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, was humiliated in the Kaurava court. Dushasana, following the orders of Duryodhana, attempted to disrobe her in front of everyone.

Draupadi, finding no one in the court to protect her, turned to Lord Krishna with complete faith and surrendered herself to him. She raised her arms and invoked Krishna’s name, seeking refuge in him, as her last hope.

In response to her heartfelt plea, Lord Krishna miraculously provided an endless stream of cloth, protecting her honor. Despite being in a seemingly hopeless situation, Draupadi’s unwavering surrender to Krishna saved her from disgrace.

Lesson: Draupadi’s total surrender in her moment of helplessness is a powerful example of śaraṇāgata. Her faith and trust in Krishna were absolute, and this pure surrender invoked divine intervention. This incident emphasizes that when one seeks refuge with complete faith in the divine, they are never abandoned.

3. Gajendra’s Surrender to Lord Vishnu (From the Gajendra Moksha in the Bhagavata Purana): The story of Gajendra Moksha is a well-known example of surrender and divine rescue found in the Bhagavata Purana. Gajendra, the elephant king, represents the soul in distress, and Lord Vishnu’s response illustrates divine grace toward those who seek refuge.

Story:

Gajendra, a powerful elephant, was enjoying a bath in a lake with his herd when a crocodile suddenly seized his leg. Despite his immense strength, Gajendra was unable to free himself from the crocodile's grip. After a long struggle, he became exhausted and realized that his efforts were futile.

In his moment of helplessness, Gajendra lifted a lotus flower in his trunk and called out to Lord Vishnu, seeking his protection and surrendering completely to the divine.

Hearing Gajendra’s sincere plea, Lord Vishnu immediately descended to the earth on his mount Garuda and liberated Gajendra from the crocodile, granting him moksha (liberation).

Lesson: Gajendra’s story demonstrates the power of complete surrender. Even in his dire situation, when all personal efforts failed, his genuine prayer and surrender to the divine brought immediate help. Lord Vishnu’s swift response illustrates that the divine always comes to the aid of those who sincerely seek refuge.

Common Themes in Śaraṇāgata:

Complete Trust and Faith: In all these examples, the individuals had complete faith in the higher power they were surrendering to. Their trust was unwavering, even when the situation seemed hopeless.

Letting Go of Ego: Śaraṇāgata involves relinquishing one’s ego and sense of control. Vibhishana left his family and kingdom, Draupadi gave up relying on human intervention, and Gajendra abandoned his own strength. This letting go signifies the humility needed for divine grace to manifest.

Divine Protection: The ultimate reward for śaraṇāgata is divine protection and grace. Whether it’s Lord Rama accepting Vibhishana, Krishna saving Draupadi, or Vishnu liberating Gajendra, the higher power responds with compassion and immediate action to protect the surrendered soul.

Conclusion:

Śaraṇāgata is a profound principle in Indian spiritual traditions that teaches the power of surrendering to a higher force. It shows that when individuals, in times of distress or spiritual longing, let go of their pride, ego, and reliance on worldly means, they invoke the grace of the divine, which is ever ready to protect, guide, and liberate those who seek refuge. The examples of Vibhishana, Draupadi, and Gajendra illustrate that sincere surrender leads to divine intervention, showing the timeless relevance of this principle in spiritual practice and daily life.

Dridhanishchaya.

 Dridhanishchaya (दृढनिश्चय) is a Sanskrit term composed of two words: "Dridha" (दृढ) meaning firm, strong, or unshakeable, and "Nishchaya" (निश्चय) meaning determination, resolution, or conviction. Therefore, Dridhanishchaya translates to "firm determination" or "unwavering resolve". It signifies a mental state where an individual is resolute in pursuing a goal or decision, regardless of obstacles, distractions, or challenges.

This quality is essential in many philosophical, spiritual, and practical aspects of life, as it represents a person's commitment to their chosen path, purpose, or duty, despite difficulties. In the context of spiritual practice, it is especially important for maintaining focus on self-realization and liberation, even when faced with temptations, doubts, or setbacks.

Elaboration on Dridhanishchaya:

1. Inner Strength and Conviction: Dridhanishchaya involves having an inner strength or mental clarity that prevents one from being swayed by external factors. It means that once a decision is made or a goal is set, the individual moves forward with complete conviction and refuses to give up, no matter how difficult the circumstances become.

Example: A student preparing for a difficult examination may face distractions, fatigue, and self-doubt. But with Dridhanishchaya, they remain focused, putting in consistent effort and refusing to quit, even if the studies seem overwhelming. Their firm resolve ensures they stay committed until the exam is successfully completed.

2. Persistence in Spiritual Practice: In spiritual contexts, Dridhanishchaya is vital for aspirants who seek liberation (Moksha) or enlightenment. Spiritual paths often require deep commitment, and there are many moments when progress might seem slow, or worldly distractions might pull the practitioner away. Dridhanishchaya helps maintain focus on higher spiritual ideals, guiding one through moments of doubt or frustration.

Example: In the Bhagavad Gita, Arjuna is initially overwhelmed by confusion and sorrow. However, through the teachings of Krishna, he gains Dridhanishchaya—the firm determination to carry out his duty as a warrior, despite his personal emotions. Arjuna’s unwavering resolve to follow dharma (righteous duty) exemplifies this principle.

3. Overcoming Adversity: Dridhanishchaya is also closely linked with resilience. A person with firm determination does not succumb to failures, but instead learns from setbacks and continues moving forward. This ability to overcome adversity without losing sight of the goal is a hallmark of Dridhanishchaya.

Example: Mahatma Gandhi’s non-violent struggle for Indian independence is a powerful example of Dridhanishchaya. Despite numerous arrests, threats, and failures, Gandhi never wavered from his conviction of non-violence (Ahimsa) and truth (Satyagraha). His firm determination inspired millions, leading to India's eventual independence.

4. Single-Minded Focus: Dridhanishchaya is often associated with a single-minded focus on the goal. It implies a deep commitment where all distractions are set aside, and the individual’s energies are concentrated on achieving the desired outcome. This focus ensures steady progress even in the face of difficulties.

Example: A mountaineer aiming to summit a peak demonstrates Dridhanishchaya by maintaining focus on the goal despite physical exhaustion, challenging terrain, and extreme weather conditions. Their unwavering determination helps them persevere and reach the summit.

5. Faith and Patience: Dridhanishchaya is not just about forceful willpower; it also involves faith in one’s path or decision and patience in seeing results. Often, success or spiritual growth takes time, and unwavering determination requires one to wait patiently while continuing the effort.

Example: A farmer planting seeds shows Dridhanishchaya by consistently watering, nurturing, and caring for the crops. Even though the results of the harvest are not immediate, the farmer’s patient, firm resolve ensures a successful yield in due time.

Importance of Dridhanishchaya in Various Fields:

In Personal Development: Dridhanishchaya is critical for self-improvement. Whether learning a new skill, overcoming bad habits, or achieving personal goals, firm determination is what ensures progress and success.

Example: A person determined to quit smoking faces urges, stress, and temptations. However, with Dridhanishchaya, they stay committed to their goal of better health, gradually overcoming their addiction.

In Career and Professional Life: Dridhanishchaya ensures that one remains dedicated to their career objectives, whether it's building a business, reaching a professional milestone, or mastering a craft. Success in professional life often demands long-term focus, perseverance, and a strong will to overcome failures.

Example: An entrepreneur building a startup may encounter financial difficulties, failed ventures, or market competition. A firm determination to succeed despite these setbacks keeps the entrepreneur motivated and eventually leads to business success.

In Relationships: Dridhanishchaya can also be vital in maintaining strong and healthy relationships. Being committed to resolving conflicts, building trust, and staying true to one’s values ensures deep and lasting connections.

Example: A couple facing relationship challenges due to distance or misunderstandings can, with firm determination, work through these issues, communicating effectively and maintaining their bond with patience and perseverance.

Conclusion:

Dridhanishchaya is the unwavering determination and focus required to achieve a goal, whether in spiritual practice, personal development, or any other aspect of life. It enables one to overcome challenges, distractions, and setbacks, staying resolute in the pursuit of higher goals. Examples from sacred texts, historical figures, and everyday life show how this virtue plays a crucial role in realizing one's full potential.

V & V

 Viveka and Vairagya are two key concepts in Vedanta and other Indian philosophical traditions, particularly in the path of self-realization or spiritual liberation. Though they are often discussed together, they represent distinct qualities or virtues that complement each other in spiritual practice.

1. Viveka (Discrimination or Discernment):

Definition: Viveka refers to the ability to discern between what is real and permanent (the eternal) and what is unreal and transient (the temporary). It is the intellectual capacity to distinguish between the true Self (Atman) and the non-Self (body, mind, emotions, etc.).

Role in Spiritual Practice: Viveka enables a person to see through the illusions of the material world, understanding that all worldly experiences, attachments, and identities are fleeting. With this discernment, one can focus on spiritual growth and the quest for the ultimate truth (Brahman).

Key Aspect: It is more cognitive or intellectual in nature, involving a clear understanding of reality versus illusion.

2. Vairagya (Dispassion or Detachment):

Definition: Vairagya means dispassion or detachment from sensory pleasures, material objects, and worldly desires. It involves cultivating a state of mind that is not swayed by pleasure, pain, success, or failure.

Role in Spiritual Practice: Vairagya helps in letting go of attachments and desires, making the mind serene and focused on higher goals like self-realization. It is the emotional and psychological withdrawal from things that are not conducive to spiritual liberation.

Key Aspect: It is more emotional or volitional, related to letting go of attachments and desires.

Relationship between Viveka and Vairagya:

Interdependence: Viveka leads to Vairagya. When one realizes through discernment (Viveka) that the world is temporary and illusory, dispassion (Vairagya) naturally follows. With the understanding that material things cannot bring lasting happiness, one becomes detached from them.

Complementary Practices: While Viveka provides clarity about what to pursue and what to avoid, Vairagya gives the emotional strength to act on that discernment, freeing oneself from attachments that bind one to worldly existence.

In summary:

Viveka is the intellectual understanding of what is real and what is not.

Vairagya is the emotional detachment from what is unreal and impermanent.

Together, they form the foundation for a stable and focused spiritual life.

Joy & sorrow.

 

Celebrating Deepavali.

 Celebrated as the festival of lights, Deepavali is one of the ancient festivals. The Pancharatra Agamam says Deepavali festival has been in existence through the yugas, starting with Krita yuga, said Tirukkudanthai Dr. Venkatesh.

Observed on the Amavasya day in the Tamil month of Aippasi, it denotes the emergence of Goddess Lakshmi with pot of nectar following the churning of the Milky Ocean by the devas and asuras. The word Avali denotes lineup and signifies the fact that the Goddess was welcomed with diyas lit sequentially by devas, saints and the others, when she emerged. Deepavali is also referred to Lakshmi Puja due to this reason.

People believe that in Treta yuga, Lord Rama defeated Ravana on Vijayadasami Day and returned to Ayodhya on the Amavasya day in Aippasi and hence Ayodhya continues to celebrate Deepavali by staging the Lanka war followed by the burning of the Ravana in effigy.

In the Dwapara yuga, on the day preceding Amavasya in Aippasi, Lord Krishna fought with Narakasura, a rakshasa who had stolen Indra’s pristine white umbrella and his mother Aditi’s earrings. Following Indra’s appeal to Krishna to recover the stolen items, Krishna, accompanied by Satyabhama, reached Narakasura’s abode and engaged in a fight with him, defeating the asura. With his last breath the rakshasa prayed to Krishna that He should negate the sins of all those who have a Ganga snan early morning and pray to God on Aippasi Amavasya.

The real benefit of observing Deepavali lies in the fact that the festival dispels the darkness of ignorance and fetches the blessings of Lakshmi.

Rare apology.

 The Apology:

Think me not unkind and rude,

That I walk alone in grove and glen;

I go to the god of the wood

To fetch his word to men.

Tax not my sloth that I

Fold my arms beside the brook;

Each cloud that floated in the sky

Writes a letter in my book.

Chide me not, laborious band,

For the idle flowers I brought;

Every aster in my hand

Goes home loaded with a thought.

There was never mystery,

But 'tis figured in the flowers,

Was never secret history,

But birds tell it in the bowers.

One harvest from thy field

Homeward brought the oxen strong;

A second crop thine acres yield,

Which I gather in a song.

Written 100 years before India's Independence by an American-Ralph Waldo Emerson, from Boston.