Kumbh

 "It is a waste of resources to hold the Kumbh Mela on such a massive scale," the man said when I mentioned that I hadn’t taken a dip at the Maha Kumbh. He had told me earlier that he was an atheist.

    I smiled. "With your outlook, you will always see the negatives in religion. But from my military perspective, I see the Kumbh as a powerful demonstration to both our enemies and our allies."

     He raised an eyebrow. "Military? What does religion have to do with the military?"

     "Everything," I replied.      "Think about it. Crores of people gather, travel, and take a dip in unison. What does that signify?

(a) The ability to mobilize millions at an unprecedented scale.

(b) The administrative strength of the nation to manage such an event efficiently.

(c) The unshakable faith of our people, willing to endure discomfort for a larger cause.

(d) The great capability of our leadership. 

    "Isn’t it something to be proud of that this event is visible from space? I assure you, our enemies are watching."

    He shrugged. "Fine, but what’s 'military' about it?"

     I leaned forward. "Imagine the impact if the entire nation mobilized to support a war. Imagine if such a mass movement was directed towards liberating POK or Tibet. Imagine if people voluntarily contributed their wealth to fund a national cause. Events like the Kumbh Mela make it clear—India’s national power isn’t just about weapons; it’s about the will of its people. And any serious military strategist in the world would take note of that."

     His expression hardened. "But people have died in stampede at this gathering, and here you are, calling it an asset to national power. Isn’t that absurd?"

  I sighed. "Look at the bigger picture. More people visited after that incident, and the administration only improved its arrangements. That showcases the grit of both our people and our government. Now, compare this to China. If a stampede of this scale had occurred there, they would have either shut down the event completely or controlled the crowds with brutal force—just as they did during COVID. Did you see those videos of people being shot by their forces.  India, in contrast, adapts and strengthens."

   He scoffed. "So, according to you, it’s time to rejoice?"

   "Yes, it’s time to rejoice. But it’s also time to contemplate."

   His curiosity piqued.      "Contemplate? About what?"

    I leaned in. "Any adversary worth its salt will attempt to neutralize this element of our national power. And if we don’t prepare, they will succeed."

   "Neutralize? How?"

    I exhaled. "The key forces behind the Kumbh’s success are faith (aastha) and leadership. Our enemies will attempt to manipulate public perception to divide that faith or install incompetent leaders to mismanage such events. Have you not seen how there were indications of U.S. having allocated funds to influence Indian elections? Similar efforts will be made by others to weaken what makes us strong."

    He smirked. "I see an andhbhakt in you."

    I shook my head. The man has started displaying his ad hominem tendency.  I was getting irritated as he was blinded by negativity and yet called me an andhbakht. But I said, "I’m sorry, you can’t recognize a pragmatic deshbhakt in me."

   And with that, I walked away as I didn’t want to challenge his perspective any further. The Gurbani says:-

   Ham Nahee Changae Buraa Nahee Koe. Pranavath Naanak Thaarae Soe.

  I am not good; no one is bad. Prays Nanak, He (God) alone saves us!

Note:- I feel sorry for Klause E Knorr,  Clifford German, Wilhelm Fucks, Michael Eugene Porter, Ray Cline as they will have to add another factor in their equations to calculate Comprehensive National Power (CNP) to cater for aastha of Indians

Jai Hind. 

- Brig. PS Gothra

#KumbhMela #indiapower

Several non-Indian Institutions and Consultant Companies have sent study teams to the Kumbh Mela to learn from its management practices. Here are few examples:

1. *Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)*: MIT has sent researchers to study the Kumbh Mela's infrastructure, logistics, and crowd management.

2. *Stanford University*: Stanford has conducted studies on the Kumbh Mela's organizational structure, leadership, and decision-making processes.

3. *University of California, Berkeley*: UC Berkeley has researched the Kumbh Mela's environmental sustainability practices, including waste management and water conservation.

4. *University of Oxford*: Oxford has sent researchers to study the Kumbh Mela's cultural and social dynamics, including its impact on local communities.

5. *McKinsey & Company*: McKinsey has studied the Kumbh Mela's logistics and supply chain management, highlighting best practices that can be applied to other industries.

6. *Boston Consulting Group (BCG)*: BCG has researched the Kumbh Mela's organizational design and leadership structures, exploring lessons that can be applied to corporate settings.

7. *Deloitte*: Deloitte has sent teams to study the Kumbh Mela's risk management and crisis response strategies, identifying key takeaways for businesses and organizations.

8. *Ernst & Young (EY)*: EY has conducted studies on the Kumbh Mela's infrastructure development and urban planning, highlighting innovative solutions for urban development.

All these institutions have recognized the Kumbh Mela as a unique case study in management, logistics, and organizational design, and have sought to learn from its successes and challenges. ‎

*The above are in addition to many IITs and IIMs studying many facets of Mahakumbh organisation*

Morning.

ब्रह्मा मुरारिस्त्रिपुरान्तकारी

भानुः शशी भूमिसुतो बुधश्च ।

गुरुश्च शुक्रः शनिराहुकेतवः

कुर्वन्तु सर्वे मम सुप्रभातम् ॥१॥

Brahmaa Muraaris-Tripuraantakaarii

Bhaanuh Shashii Bhuumisuto Budhash-Ca |

Gurush-Ca Shukrah Shani-Raahu-Ketavah

Kurvantu Sarve Mama Suprabhaatam ||1

Meaning:

1.1: (In the early morning I remember) The Devas Brahma, Murari (The enemy of demon Mura, refers to Sri Krishna or Vishnu) and Tripurantakari (The One Who has brought an end to Tripurasuras, refers to Sri Shiva), ...

1.2: ... The Planets Bhanu (The Sun), Shashi (The Moon), Bumisuta (Mars) and Budha (Mercury), ...

1.3: ... Guru (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus), Shani (Saturn), Rahu and Ketu, ...

1.4: May all of them make my Morning Auspicious.

भृगुर्वसिष्ठः क्रतुरङ्गिराश्च

मनुः पुलस्यः पुलहश्च गौतमः ।

रैभ्यो मरीचिश्च्यवनश्च दक्षः

कुर्वन्तु सर्वे मम सुप्रभातम् ॥२॥

Bhrgur-Vasisstthah Kratur-Anggiraash-Ca

Manuh Pulasyah Pulahash-Ca Gautamah |

Raibhyo Mariicish-Cyavanash-Ca Dakssah

Kurvantu Sarve Mama Suprabhaatam ||2||

Meaning:

2.1: (In the early morning I remember) The Sages Bhrigu, Vasistha, Kratu and Angira, ...

2.2: ... Manu, Pulasya, Pulaha and Gautama, ...

2.3: ... Raibhya, Marichi, Chyavana and Daksha, ...

2.4: May all of them make my Morning Auspicious

सनत्कुमारः सनकः सनन्दनः

सनातनोऽप्यासुरिपिङ्गलौ च ।

सप्त स्वराः सप्त रसातलानि

कुर्वन्तु सर्वे मम सुप्रभातम् ॥३॥

Sanatkumaarah Sanakah Sanandanah

Sanaatano[a-A]py[i]-Aasuri-Pinggalau Ca |

Sapta Svaraah Sapta Rasaatalaani

Kurvantu Sarve Mama Suprabhaatam ||3||

Meaning:

3.1: (In the early morning I remember) The Sages Sanatkumara, Sanaka, Sanandana, ...

3.2: ... Sanatana, Asuri and Pingala,

3.3: The seven Swaras (Musical Notes) and the seven Nether Worlds,

3.4: May all of them make my Morning Auspicious.

सप्तार्णवाः सप्त कुलाचलाश्च

सप्तर्षयो द्वीपवनानि सप्त ।p

भूरादिकृत्वा भुवनानि सप्त

कुर्वन्तु सर्वे मम सुप्रभातम् ॥४॥

Sapta-[A]arnnavaah Sapta Kula-Acalaash-Ca

Sapta-Rssayo Dviipa-Aanaani Sapta |

Bhuur-Aadi-Krtvaa Bhuvanaani Sapta

Kurvantu Sarve Mama Suprabhaatam ||4||

Morning:

4.1: (In the early morning I remember) The seven Seas, the seven Kula Parvatas (seven Holy Mountains), ...

4.2: ... The Saptarshis (seven Sages), seven Islands and Forests, ...

4.3: ... The seven Worlds starting with Bhur Loka,

4.4: May all of them make my Morning Auspiciousपृथ्वी सगन्धा सरसास्तथापः

स्पर्शी च वायुर्ज्वलितं च तेजः ।

नभः सशब्दं महता सहैव

कुर्वन्तु सर्वे मम सुप्रभातम् ॥५॥

Prthvii Sa-Gandhaa Sa-Rasaas-Tatha-Apah

Sparshii Ca Vaayur-Jvalitam Ca Tejah |

Nabhah Sa-Shabdam Mahataa Sahai[a-E]va

Kurvantu Sarve Mama Suprabhaatam ||5||

Morning:

5.1: (In the early morning I remember) Mother Nature manifesting as the Prithivi (Earth) which is connected with Gandha (Smell), Apah (Water) which is connected with Rasa (Taste), ...

5.2: ... Vayu (Air, Wind) which is connected with Sparsha (Touch), Tejah (Fire) which is connected with Light and ...

5.3: ... Sky which is connected with Sabda (Sound); I remember all these Mahat Tatvas (Material Energy),

5.4: May all of them make my Morning Auspicious.

इत्थं प्रभाते परमं पवित्रं

पठेत् स्मरेद्वा शृणुयाच्च भक्त्या ।

दुःस्वप्ननाशस्त्विह सुप्रभातं

कुर्वन्तु सर्वे मम सुप्रभातम् ॥६॥

Ittham Prabhaate Paramam Pavitram

Patthet Smared-Vaa Shrnnuyaac-Ca Bhaktyaa |

Duhsvapna-Naashastv-Iha Suprabhaatam

Kurvantu Sarve Mama Suprabhaatam ||6||

Morning:

6.1: In this manner, in the early Morning, this very purifying Hymn, ...

6.2: ... on reciting, remembering or listening with Devotion,

6.3: ... has the quality of destroying bad dreams and making the morning Auspicious,

6.4: ... making the Morning Auspicious by the grace of the Divine.

Thepam.

 Tepotsavam: The Sacred Float Festival

Tepotsavam is a grand temple festival in which the presiding deity of a temple is taken in a beautifully decorated float (teppam) around the temple tank (pushkarini). This festival is particularly famous in South Indian temples, especially those dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. It is celebrated with great devotion, accompanied by Vedic chants, devotional music, and the enthusiastic participation of devotees.

Significance of Tepotsavam

1. Symbolism of the Cosmic Journey

The float represents the divine chariot of the Lord, sailing through the waters of the cosmic ocean. Just as the universe is sustained by the Lord amidst the endless waters of creation, the deity floating on the temple tank signifies His presence in the cosmic waters

2. Purification and Renewal

Water is considered sacred in Hindu tradition, purifying all that it touches. By taking the deity on a procession over water, it is believed that divine blessings spread across the land, purifying the surroundings and rejuvenating nature and the devotees.

3. Reinforcing Bhakti (Devotion)

The floating deity is a mesmerizing sight that deepens the devotion of the people. The gentle movement of the float across the water signifies the Lord’s grace, which flows smoothly into the hearts of His devotees. The festival strengthens the connection between the deity and the devotees, reminding them of His ever-present compassion.

4. A Representation of the Lord’s Leelas

Many deities, especially Lord Vishnu, are associated with water. Lord Krishna’s playful pastimes (leelas) with the Gopis on the Yamuna, or Lord Rama’s crossing of the ocean to Lanka, are symbolically recalled during Tepotsavam. It is a way to reenact and relive the divine narratives.

5. Commemoration of Temple Founders and Acharyas

Many teppotsavam celebrations also pay homage to temple founders and saints who have established or revitalized the temple traditions. It is an expression of gratitude towards these spiritual luminaries.

The Rituals of Tepotsavam

The main deity (utsava murti) is first taken on a grand procession within the temple.

The deity is then taken to the pushkarini, where a specially decorated float, often adorned with flowers and lamps, awaits.

Priests and devotees chant hymns and bhajans as the deity is placed on the float.

The float is moved around the sacred tank multiple times, usually in odd numbers (3, 5, or 7 rounds), symbolizing auspiciousness.

Finally, the deity is brought back to the sanctum with great reverence.

Famous Temples Known for Tepotsavam

Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple – Celebrated in the Swami Pushkarini.

Madurai Meenakshi Temple – A grand spectacle in the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam.

Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple – One of the most elaborate teppotsavams in South India.

Kanchipuram Varadaraja Perumal Temple – A deeply symbolic and traditional celebration.

 The Sri Parthasarathy Temple in Chennai, dedicated to Lord Krishna as Parthasarathy (the charioteer of Arjuna), is renowned for its grand Tepotsavam (float festival).

Tepotsavam at Parthasarathy Temple, Chennai

The festival is celebrated annually in the Tamil month of Masi (February–March) in the temple’s Kairavini Pushkarini (the sacred temple tank).

The Utsava Murti of Lord Parthasarathy, along with consorts, is taken in a beautifully decorated float (teppam) for several rounds on the sacred waters.

Devotees gather in large numbers to witness this divine spectacle, accompanied by Vedic chants, bhajans, and temple music.

The festival signifies Lord Krishna’s compassion and accessibility to His devotees, as He appears amidst them outside the sanctum, blessing everyone.

Special Significance

Lord Parthasarathy is unique because He bears scars from the arrows of the Kurukshetra war, showing His role as Krishna, the charioteer of Arjuna in the Mahabharata.

The Tepotsavam here reminds devotees of Krishna’s divine play and His eternal presence on the battlefield of life, guiding us like He guided Arjuna.

The temple tank, Kairavini Pushkarini, is believed to have been formed by a celestial river, making it extremely sacred.

The Parthasarathy Temple’s Tepotsavam is one of the most anticipated events in Chennai’s religious calendar, drawing thousands of devotees who come to experience Krishna’s divine grace as He gently glides over the water.

Thus, Tepotsavam is a festival that embodies divine presence, devotion, and cosmic symbolism. It reminds devotees that the Lord is not confined to the temple but pervades the entire universe, including the sacred waters.

 one of the unique and endearing aspects of Lord Parthasarathy at the Chennai temple—He goes on a procession every single day of the year!

Daily Processions of Lord Parthasarathy

Unlike many temples where the deity is taken out only on special occasions, Lord Parthasarathy blesses devotees with a daily outing (purappadu).

The procession happens both inside the temple and on the four Mada streets surrounding the temple.

The Lord is accompanied by divine music (nadaswaram and thavil), Vedic chanting, and the enthusiastic participation of devotees.

Significance of This Unique Tradition

1. Continuous Divine Presence – The Lord doesn’t remain confined to the sanctum but comes out every day, signifying that He is always with His devotees.

2. Eternal Protector – As Krishna (Parthasarathy), He is always watching over His devotees, just as He guided Arjuna in the Mahabharata.

3. Blessings for Everyone – Many devotees, including elderly people and those who may not be able to enter the temple, receive His darshan daily.

4. Unbroken Tradition – This practice has been followed for centuries, making the temple one of the most vibrant centers of daily worship in Chennai.

This makes Sri Parthasarathy Perumal one of the most accessible and benevolent deities, ever ready to shower His grace on devot

ees throughout the year!

Ground.

 That is a profound and beautiful perspective. The cremation ground is one place where Rama Nama is chanted constantly—by grieving relatives, priests performing last rites, and even those passing by. Since Shiva is the greatest devotee of Lord Rama, he naturally chooses to reside where Rama Nama is uttered day and night.

This aligns with the well-known verse:

"Śrī Rāma Rāma Rāmēti, Ramē Rāmē Manoramē।

Sahasranāma tattulyaṁ, Rāma Nāma varānanē॥"

(Chanting "Rama, Rama, Rama" is as powerful as reciting a thousand names of Vishnu.)

Thus, Shiva, as the embodiment of Vairagya (detachment) and Bhakti (devotion), finds eternal bliss in the cremation ground, where the most sacred name, Rama, echoes ceaselessly.

Lord Shiva’s association with burial grounds (śmaśāna) has deep spiritual, philosophical, and symbolic significance. Here are some key reasons:

1. The Lord of Destruction and Transformation

Shiva is the Mahākāla, the great destroyer, who dissolves all things in the cosmic cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction. Cremation grounds are places of ultimate dissolution, where the body returns to its elemental form. By dwelling there, Shiva signifies that He is beyond birth and death, guiding souls toward liberation (mokṣa).

2. The Destroyer of Ego

The śmaśāna is a place where worldly identities—status, wealth, beauty—are rendered meaningless. Shiva, who smears himself with ashes from funeral pyres, reminds devotees that the body is temporary, and attachment to the material world leads to suffering. This represents the destruction of the ahaṅkāra (ego) and the realization of the eternal self.

3. Compassion for All Beings

Shiva is Bhūtanātha, the Lord of spirits and beings who have no refuge. The cremation ground is often considered the abode of wandering spirits, ghosts, and departed souls. Shiva’s presence there grants peace to these beings, guiding them toward higher spiritual realms.

4. Renunciation and Detachment

Shiva is the supreme ascetic (vairāgī), detached from worldly pleasures and desires. The burial ground, a place of impermanence, reinforces the idea that true liberation comes from renouncing material attachments and embracing divine truth.

5. Symbol of Fearlessness

Most people fear death, but Shiva, by residing in the śmaśāna, teaches that death is not to be feared but understood as a natural transition. He embodies absoluteness—beyond life and death, pleasure and pain, form and formlessness.

6. Cosmic Balance – The Power of Rudra

As Rudra, Shiva is the force of destruction that paves the way for regeneration. The cremation ground, where life ends, also represents the beginning of new existence, symbolizing the eternal cycle of saṁsāra.

7. Śmaśāna Vīrabhadra – The Fierce Protector

In Tantric traditions, Shiva’s aspect as Śmaśāna Vīrabhadra is revered. He is seen as a protector of seekers who meditate on the ultimate truth of life and death, dissolving all illusions.

8. A Connection to Mahāśakti – Kālī and Smashāna

Shiva is deeply connected to Mahākālī, who also resides in the cremation ground, symbolizing the raw, untamed power of the cosmos. Their union represents the interplay of creation and destruction.

Shiva’s presence in the burial ground is not a sign of morbidity but of deep spiritual wisdom. He reminds us of the impermanence of the body, the illusion of the material world, and the path to true liberation. By embracing destruction, He grants mokṣa, the ultimate freedom from the cycle of birth and death.

Encounter.

Thirumangai Alvar and the Needle Incident

Thirumangai Alvar, a great poet-saint and a fierce devotee of Lord Vishnu, had once lived the life of a chieftain before renouncing worldly pleasures and dedicating himself to the service of the Lord. Despite his royal past, he chose to live with humility, accepting only what was necessary for his survival.

One day, Thirumangai Alvar was sitting outside his humble dwelling, mending a torn quilt. He struggled to thread the needle, as his hands were trembling with age. At that moment, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati happened to pass by.

Observing the saint, Parvati asked Lord Shiva, "This is a great devotee of Vishnu, should we not give him something?"

Lord Shiva, who knew the heart of Thirumangai Alvar, replied, "He is a contented soul. He will not ask for anything."

However, Goddess Parvati insisted that they offer him something, so they approached the Alvar.

When Thirumangai Alvar saw them, he folded his hands in reverence and greeted them warmly. Lord Shiva then said, "We wish to grant you something. Ask for whatever you desire."

Thirumangai Alvar smiled and replied, "I have no needs. I have everything I require."

But Shiva, upon Parvati’s urging, insisted that he make a request. The Alvar, after some thought, said, "Well, if you truly wish to help, I have been struggling to thread this needle. Could you do it for me?"

Hearing this, Lord Shiva smiled and tried to thread the needle. However, no matter how hard he tried, the thread refused to pass through. He attempted again and again, but failed each time.

It's immaterial if Lord Siva threaded the needle or not the point here is the alwar was not in need of anything. And this was the point the lord was trying to tell Parvati. 

Thirumangai Alvar then looked at Shiva and said, "O Mahadeva! If threading a simple needle is so difficult, how can one expect to attain liberation without surrendering to the Lord?"

He then sang the glories of Lord Vishnu, emphasizing that ultimate salvation could only be attained through complete devotion to Him. Shiva, pleased with Thirumangai Alvar's unwavering faith and wisdom, blessed him and departed with Parvati.

This incident beautifully highlights the Alvar's deep-rooted devotion and his belief in Vishnu's supremacy. It also symbolizes that even the smallest of tasks require divine grace, and true liberation comes only through surrender to the Supreme Lord.

The Alvar and the Needle: A Divine Encounter

Upon the earth, in simple grace,

Lived a poet with Vishnu’s face.

Thirumangai, his name so bright,

Sang the Lord both day and night.

Once, beneath the azure sky,

He sat with quilt and thread nearby.

A needle fine in trembling hand,

Yet the thread refused his command.

As fate would weave its golden line,

Two forms divine began to shine—

Lord Shiva, fair in matted hair,

And Parvati, of beauty rare.

She paused and watched the saint below,

His humble home, his thread’s slow flow.

“O Mahadeva,” Parvati said,

“Shall we not bless this one with bread?”

But Shiva smiled, with knowing eyes,

“He seeks no gifts, no worldly ties.

Content he dwells, with naught to claim,

Save Vishnu’s ever-glorious name.”

Yet Parvati, with kindness deep,

Urged her Lord his vow to keep.

So down they stepped, with gentle grace,

Before the saint of Vishnu’s place.

With folded palms, the Alvar rose,

His heart at peace, his mind composed.

“My Lord of Kailash, Queen divine,

What brings you here to this home of mine?”

“We wish to grant you what you will,

A boon, a treasure, gold or skill.”

Yet Thirumangai simply bowed,

“My Lord, my needs are few, unplowed.”

But Shiva, urged by Parvati's plea,

Said, “Ask, O saint, what gift shall be?”

A twinkle in the Alvar’s gaze,

A smile that set their hearts ablaze.

“My Lord,” he said, “if boon must be,

Thread this needle here for me.”

Shiva laughed and took the thread,

A simple task that lay ahead.

But lo! The fiber slipped and swayed,

It would not pass, nor still obeyed.

Once, twice, thrice—Shiva sighed,

The needle’s eye stood shut in pride.

The Alvar spoke, his voice so clear,

“O Lord, if this mere task is dear,

Then what of souls, adrift and lost,

That seek to cross life’s stormy cost?”

“To thread this path, no hand can guide,

Save Vishnu’s grace, the soul’s true tide.

No wealth, no might, no boon of kings,

Can grant what only surrender brings.”

Shiva smiled, his task undone,

Yet saw the truth, like rising sun.

He bowed, and with Parvati fair,

Blessed the Alvar then and there.

Thus stands the tale, so soft yet bright,

A lesson spun in wisdom’s light—

For threads may twist, and hands may shake,

But faith in Vishnu none can break. 

Benefit.

 The Benefits of Rising Early

The habit of rising early has been praised since ancient times by sages, scholars, and successful individuals. It is often said, "Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise." This simple practice, when followed with discipline, brings profound benefits to one's physical health, mental clarity, and overall productivity.

1. A Gift of Tranquility

The early hours of the day are marked by stillness and peace. The world has not yet woken up to its noise, rush, and chaos. This quietude allows the mind to wake up gently, free from distractions. It is an ideal time for meditation, prayer, and reflection. Spiritual practices performed in the Brahma Muhurta (the time before sunrise) are believed to be highly effective, as the mind is naturally calm and receptive.

2. A Boost to Physical Health

Waking up early is linked to numerous health benefits:

Better Sleep Cycle: Early risers tend to have a regulated sleep pattern, which enhances the quality of rest and prevents insomnia.

Improved Digestion: The body's natural rhythms align better with early rising, aiding digestion and metabolism.

More Time for Exercise: Exercising in the morning energizes the body, boosts immunity, and improves cardiovascular health.

3. Mental Clarity and Focus

The early morning is the best time for activities that require deep thinking, such as planning, problem-solving, and creative work. With a refreshed mind, tasks can be completed more efficiently, leading to better decision-making throughout the day. Many great writers, scientists, and leaders have credited their early rising habits for their intellectual success.

4. Increased Productivity and Success

Rising early gives an individual a head start on the day. The extra time allows for better organization, goal-setting, and focused work. Many highly successful people, from CEOs to spiritual leaders, attribute their achievements to the discipline of waking up early. The ability to work without distractions in the early hours results in higher efficiency and accomplishment.

5. A Stronger Connection with Nature

One of the most beautiful rewards of waking up early is experiencing the serenity of nature. The cool morning air, the chirping of birds, and the gentle golden rays of the rising sun create an atmosphere of pure bliss. Sunlight in the morning is also an excellent source of Vitamin D, which strengthens bones and enhances mood.

6. Developing Self-Discipline

Rising early requires self-discipline, which in turn strengthens willpower. It fosters a sense of control over one’s life and instills a sense of responsibility. When a person masters the art of waking up early, they naturally become more disciplined in other areas of life as well.

7. Better Emotional Well-being

Starting the day early with a peaceful routine reduces stress and anxiety. The rush and panic of waking up late often lead to a chaotic and unbalanced day. In contrast, an early riser enjoys a composed and relaxed morning, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day.

The habit of rising early is a powerful tool for a balanced, successful, and healthy life. It nurtures the body, sharpens the mind, and elevates the spirit. By embracing this timeless practice, one can unlock their full potential and live a life of greater clarity, efficiency, and joy. Those who master the art of early rising truly hold the key to a fulfilled and enriched existence.

Prasang aar

 अंगद-अक्षयकुमार-रावण प्रसंग

रामायण के युद्धकांड में कई ऐसे प्रसंग आते हैं जो नीति, पराक्रम, और चरित्र के गहरे अर्थ बताते हैं। ऐसा ही एक महत्वपूर्ण प्रसंग है जब रावण के दरबार में अंगद जाते हैं, और फिर रावण का पुत्र अक्षयकुमार श्रीराम की सेना से युद्ध करता है।

१. अंगद का रावण-दूत बनकर लंका जाना

जब श्रीराम और रावण के बीच युद्ध निश्चित हो गया, तब श्रीराम ने रावण को अंतिम अवसर देने के लिए एक दूत भेजने का निश्चय किया। हनुमान जी पहले ही लंका जाकर सीता माता का पता लगा चुके थे और लंका के बल का आकलन भी कर लिया था। इस बार अंगद, जो बालि के पुत्र थे और महान पराक्रमी थे, को दूत बनाकर भेजा गया।

अंगद रावण के दरबार में गए और नीति व शांति का उपदेश दिया। उन्होंने कहा कि यदि रावण अब भी माता सीता को श्रीराम को लौटा दे, तो उसका कल्याण होगा। लेकिन रावण अपने अहंकार में अड़ा रहा।

जब अंगद ने देखा कि रावण अपनी हठधर्मिता से पीछे हटने वाला नहीं है, तो उन्होंने अपना एक पाँव भूमि पर रखकर घोषणा की—

"यदि लंका में कोई वीर है, तो मेरे इस पाँव को हिला कर दिखाए!"

रावण के पुत्र मेघनाद समेत सभी महारथी बल लगाकर भी अंगद का पाँव नहीं हिला सके। अंत में, रावण स्वयं उठा, लेकिन जैसे ही वह अंगद की ओर बढ़ा, अंगद ने कहा—

"रावण! यदि तू अपने बल पर मेरे पाँव को नहीं हिला सकता, तो सोच कि तू श्रीराम का सामना कैसे करेगा? तेरा अंत निकट है!"

यह कहकर अंगद छलांग लगाकर वापस श्रीराम के पास चले आए।

२. अक्षयकुमार का श्रीराम की सेना से युद्ध

अंगद के लौटने के बाद रावण को स्पष्ट हो गया कि युद्ध निश्चित है। जब श्रीराम की वानर सेना ने लंका पर चढ़ाई शुरू की, तो रावण ने पहले अपने सबसे छोटे पुत्र अक्षयकुमार को युद्ध के लिए भेजा।

अक्षयकुमार एक अत्यंत तेजस्वी और वीर योद्धा था। उसने वानर सेना पर भयानक आक्रमण किया और कई योद्धाओं को परास्त किया। उसकी युद्धकला देखकर स्वयं हनुमान जी को उससे युद्ध करने के लिए आना पड़ा।

हनुमान जी और अक्षयकुमार के बीच घमासान युद्ध हुआ। अक्षयकुमार ने अपने दिव्यास्त्रों से हनुमान जी को बाँधने की चेष्टा की, लेकिन वे सभी व्यर्थ हुए। अंत में, जब हनुमान जी ने देखा कि युद्ध लंबे समय तक खिंच सकता है, तो उन्होंने अपनी गदा उठाई और एक ही प्रहार में अक्षयकुमार को मार गिराया।

३. इस प्रसंग का संदेsh 

अंगद का रावण के दरबार में जाना अहंकार और धर्म के टकराव को दर्शाता है। सत्य और नीति के संदेश को स्वीकार करने वाला ही विजयी होता है।

अक्षयकुमार का युद्ध यह दिखाता है कि वीरता और साहस महत्वपूर्ण हैं, लेकिन अधर्म के पक्ष में होने पर पराजय निश्चित है।

हनुमान जी का पराक्रम सिद्ध करता है कि धर्म के पक्ष में खड़े होने वाले को कोई परास्त नहीं कर सकता।

इस प्रकार, अंगद, अक्षयकुमार, और रावण के इस प्रसंग में रामायण का गहरा नीति-संदेश छिपा हुआ है।