Keerthy

 

Bhakti rasa.

 In a spiritual or devotional context, bhavam refers to a state of mind, emotion, or attitude, especially in relation to devotion, meditation, or spiritual practice. In Indian philosophy, particularly in Bhakti Yoga and Rasa Theory, different states of bhavam are described. Here are the primary types:

1. Sthayi Bhavam (Permanent Emotion)

The dominant or permanent emotional state that remains in the devotee.

In bhakti, it is usually Bhakti Sthayi Bhavam (permanent state of devotion).

Examples: Shanta (peaceful), Dasya (servitude), Sakhya (friendship), Vatsalya (parental affection), Madhurya (divine love).

2. Vibhava Bhavam (Determinants)

The cause or stimulant that evokes a particular emotion.

It could be a deity's form, qualities, stories, or the devotee's own remembrance.

Example: Listening to Krishna's leelas may awaken Madhurya Bhavam.

3. Anubhava Bhavam (Consequent Expressions)

Physical or emotional expressions that follow the internal experience of devotion.

Example: Tears of joy, trembling, or goosebumps during intense devotion.

4. Sanchari Bhavam (Transient Emotions)

Temporary emotional states that accompany the primary emotion.

Example: A devotee may experience Joy, Sorrow, or Astonishment momentarily while the underlying devotion remains.

5. Satvika Bhavam (Involuntary Divine Emotions)

Pure, spontaneous emotions that manifest without conscious effort.

Example: Devotees like Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa exhibited Satvika Bhavam through uncontrollable tears or blissful laughter.

6. Bhakti Bhavam (Devotional States)

Specifically in the path of devotion, bhakti bhavam is classified into five major types:

Shanta Bhavam - Peaceful reverence.

Dasya Bhavam - Servitude, like Hanuman towards Rama.

Sakhya Bhavam - Friendship, like Arjuna with Krishna.

Vatsalya Bhavam - Parental love, like Yashoda with Krishna.

Madhurya Bhavam - Loving devotion, like Radha’s divine love for Krishna.

7. Rasa Bhavam (Aesthetic Emotions)

Described in Natya Shastra by Bharata Muni, these are artistic expressions that evoke emotional responses.

The nine Rasas (Navarasa) are: Shringara (Love), Hasya (Joy), Karuna (Compassion), Raudra (Anger), Veera (Courage), Bhayanaka (Fear), Bibhatsa (Disgust), Adbhuta (Wonder), and Shanta (Peace).

8. Guna Bhavam (Qualitative State)

Based on the three Gunas (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas) that govern human behavior:

Sattvika Bhavam - Pure, calm, and selfless state.

Rajasika Bhavam - Passionate, restless, or ego-driven state.

Tamasika Bhavam - Ignorant, lazy, or destructive state.

9. Jnana Bhavam (State of Knowledge)

A state of realization and wisdom.

Through the path of Jnana Yoga, one attains Advaita Bhavam — the realization of the unity of all existence.

Understanding and experiencing these various bhavams is an essential aspect of spiritual growth, ultimately leading to Para Bhakti (supreme devotion) or Jnana (self-realization). 

Space aging.

 Space aging takes you closer to God. 

Aging in outer space is actually slower, not faster, due to a concept called time dilation from Einstein's theory of relativity. However, space travel does have unique effects on the human body that might give the perception of accelerated aging. Let's break it down:

1. Time Dilation and Relativity

According to special relativity, time moves slower for someone traveling at very high speeds compared to someone on Earth.

If astronauts traveled close to the speed of light, time for them would slow down significantly, meaning they would age much slower than people on Earth.

Similarly, gravitational time dilation occurs near massive objects like black holes, where gravity is stronger, slowing time down for those nearby.

2. Physical Effects of Space on the Body

While time dilation causes astronauts to age slower, spaceflight itself accelerates certain biological effects that resemble aging:

Bone Density and Muscle Loss: Without gravity, astronauts lose bone and muscle mass, a process similar to osteoporosis on Earth.

Cardiovascular Changes: The heart doesn't work as hard in microgravity, leading to reduced cardiovascular efficiency.

Radiation Exposure: Space has higher levels of cosmic radiation, which damages DNA and increases cancer risk, mimicking accelerated aging.

Vision and Neurological Issues: Fluid shifts in microgravity can cause pressure on the optic nerve, leading to vision problems.

Weakened Immune System: Long-term space travel may suppress immune function, making astronauts more vulnerable to illnesses.

Astronauts technically age slower due to time dilation, but biologically, their bodies experience stress and deterioration that can mimic the effects of aging. Researchers continuously study these effects to develop countermeasures for long-duration space missions.

Melody

 Melody is a sequence of musical notes that are played or sung in a particular order to create a distinct and recognizable tune. It is often considered the most memorable and expressive part of a piece of music. Melodies are usually characterized by their rhythm, pitch, and movement from one note to another, forming a cohesive and pleasing sound.

In simpler terms, when you hum or sing a song, the part you are most likely remembering and singing is the melody. It is often supported by harmonies and rhythms, but it remains the leading, standout feature of most musical compositions.

gagana

 

The Sri Bhagavat Ramanujacharya Darshana Kainkarya Trust organised a two-day seminar on ‘Sri Ramanuja and the contemporary world.’ Professor Godavarisha Mishra spoke on Ramanuja’s influence on the Puri temple. He said it was Ramanuja who suggested King Choda Ganga Deva to build a big temple for the deity of Puri-Jagannath, who had been in worship there for several years.

Gangesvara Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva (reigned 17 February 1078 – 1150) was an Eastern Ganga monarch who reigned between 1078 and 1150. He was a great patron of arts and architecture who built many temples, one of them being the magnificent Jagannath Temple  in Puri. He was the ruler of the Kalinga region from river Ganga to Godavari, and later the early medieval Odisha region with the incorporation of the constituent regions with the decline of the Somavamshis.

He was the son of Rajaraja Deva I alias Devendravarman and Kalinga Mahadevi Rajasundari and grandson of Trikalingadhipati Anantavarman Vajrahasta Deva V. Anantavarman's mother Rajasundari was the daughter of emperor Virarajendra Chola and granddaughter of Chola king Rajendra Chola I. However, historian S.N. Sen states that Anantavarman was the maternal grandson of Kulottunga I.

The Jagannath Temple at Puri was rebuilt in the 11th century atop its ruins by Anantavarman Chodaganga. He was known as the first Gajapati/Kunjaradhiparti as per Ronaki Stone inscription. Emperor Chodaganga was originally a Shaivite from Srimukhalingam. But he embraced Sri Vaishnavism under the influence of Ramanuja when the latter visited the Sri Jagannath Puri temple.

In his Sindurapura grant (1118 A.D) Anantavarma styles himself Paramavaishnava. He re-established Kurmanathaswamy temple, Srikurmam after Ramanuja's visit to Kalinga. Despite being related to Anantavarman, Kulothunga Chola I did not stop from burning Anantavarman's empire. Tamil historians propose that it was probably because the king failed to pay his rent for two consecutive years. He was ousted by Kulothunga's general Karunakara Thondaiman and this victory is detailed in the Tamil classic Kalingattupparani. However, this could be a far fetch from the actual truth considering that such poems often exaggerate the Kings they are praising and often overlook the defeats the Kings have faced. Monarchs from this region of the subcontinent regularly assumed the title Chodaganga Deva throughout the ancient and medieval periods to allude to their Chola and Eastern Ganga heritage.

From various inscriptions it is known that King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva established the present temple some time near the end of the eleventh century. A copper plate inscription made by King Rajaraja III found on the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple near the north entrance states that Jagannath temple was built by Gangesvara, i.e., Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva.

Later, King Ananga Bhima Deva II (1170–1198) did much to continue the work of Chodaganga Deva, building the walls around the temple and many of the other shrines on the temple grounds. He is thus often considered one of the builders of the temple. He also did much to establish the regulations around the service to the Deity.

A scion of this dynasty made extensive donations to the Koneswaram temple, Trincomalee on Puthandu, 1223 CE in the name of King Chodaganga Deva. Shortly afterwards, the Konark temple was constructed in Odisha. A brother of the king titled Ulagaikonda Permadi is known to us from several inscriptions.

Special.

 God Makes Each One Special: Blooming in His Time

In the vast expanse of creation, every being is unique, shaped by the divine hand with a purpose known only to Him. Just as no two flowers are identical in fragrance, color, or time of bloom, no two individuals are the same in talent, temperament, or destiny. Yet, human minds, bound by limited perception, often try to define standards of success, intelligence, and worth, failing to recognize that God's wisdom surpasses all human judgments.

Divine Uniqueness in Creation

The world is filled with infinite diversity—each soul crafted with its own strengths and abilities. Some bloom early, while others take time. A banyan tree takes years to grow, while a jasmine plant flowers within months. Both serve their purpose, beautifying the world in their own way. Similarly, a child may excel in academics, while another may find their calling in music, art, or service. Does it mean one is greater than the other? Not at all. God's design is beyond comparison.

The Mahabharata beautifully illustrates this truth. Arjuna was the finest warrior, but Yudhishthira, known for his righteousness, was chosen to lead. Bhima’s strength, Nakula and Sahadeva’s wisdom—all had their unique roles in Dharma’s grand play. If even the great sage Veda Vyasa did not judge one brother superior to another, how can we?

The Illusion of Human Standards

Society often imposes rigid expectations—what success looks like, how intelligence should be measured, and even how life should unfold. But history proves that greatness does not conform to human timelines. Valmiki was once a highway robber. Kalidasa was once mocked for his ignorance. Yet, when the divine moment arrived, they blossomed into unparalleled poets and seers.

Hanuman, despite his immense power, did not know his own strength until reminded by Jambavan. Likewise, many people live unaware of their potential, waiting for the moment when God calls them to rise. No one is "lesser"—they are simply waiting for their destined time to shine.

God’s Time is the Right Time

A lotus blooms in the morning sun, while the parijata flowers at night. Neither is delayed; neither is early. Each follows the divine rhythm. Similarly, we must trust that God knows the right time for our growth. A child's talent, an adult's purpose, even an elder's wisdom—each unfolds precisely when needed.

Saint Purandaradasa, initially a wealthy but miserly man, transformed into a great devotee only when God's grace touched his heart. Likewise, Andal, though born into a simple priest’s home, was destined to be the consort of Lord Ranganatha. When God ordains, even the humblest soul is elevated beyond imagination.

Bloom Without Fear

In a garden, no flower competes with another; it simply blooms when its time comes. Similarly, we must cease comparing, labeling, or judging others—or even ourselves. God's plan is vast, and each of us has a place in it.

So, let us have faith. Let us encourage others to grow at their own pace. And let us remember—whether early or late, small or grand, every soul is precious in the eyes of the Divine. Our only task is to trust in Him, live with sincerity, and wait for the moment when He calls us to bloom.

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.