How to.

 When an employee chooses to move roles, departments, or even organizations to better contribute—be it through growth, alignment of purpose, or skill utilization—it reflects ambition and clarity. The way they are treated during and after this transition speaks volumes about a leader’s or institution’s maturity.

Here are key norms and principles on how to treat such an employee:

1. Respect the Decision

Acknowledge that the move is for personal or professional betterment.

Avoid guilt-tripping or emotional manipulation.

Treat the decision as a sign of growth, not betrayal.

"Every tree seeks more light; don’t resent the branch that leans outward."

2. Maintain Open Communication

Offer space for a respectful exit or transition.

Encourage honest dialogue about what inspired the move—this may bring valuable insights.

3. Celebrate the Contribution

Publicly acknowledge and appreciate the employee's past work.

A thank-you note, farewell message, or even a small celebration can go a long way in preserving goodwill.

Gratitude nurtures loyalty, even beyond tenure.

 4. Avoid Hostility or Coldness

Don’t cut off communication, exclude, or bad-mouth them.

Leaders who act small diminish their own dignity.

5. Support the Transition

Help in a smooth handover.

Offer a letter of recommendation, reference, or mentoring if requested.

Treat it as a long-term relationship, not a transaction.

"An employee is not leaving you. They’re stepping into a new orbit of their potential."

6. Foster Alumni Relations

Create a culture where former employees can still engage with the organization in knowledge-sharing, networking, or future collaborations.

Goodwill spreads through them.

7. Self-Reflection for the Employer

Ask: Why did the person feel the need to move?

Use the moment to assess growth opportunities, culture, and leadership style.

Let go with grace, not with grudge,

For every soul must shift and trudge.

They walked with you, gave heart and hand—

Bless their step to a newer land.

a professional and inspiring workplace speech that sets the tone for a policy on how to treat employees who move roles to better their contribution—either within or outside the organization:

 Speech: A Culture of Respectful Transitions

Good morning, everyone,

Today, I want to speak about something that affects every organization—not just in terms of structure, but in terms of spirit:

How we treat employees who choose to move forward in their journey to contribute better.

Whether someone shifts departments, seeks a new role elsewhere, or steps into a fresh challenge, we must remember one thing:

Growth is not abandonment. Movement is not disloyalty.

We are a team that values purpose, self-awareness, and impact. So when one of us chooses a path that aligns more closely with their talents, passion, or timing, our job is not to judge. Our job is to support—with dignity, grace, and gratitude.

Our Policy Going Forward:

1. We respect the decision.

No employee will be made to feel guilt or shame for choosing growth.

2. We celebrate their contribution.

Their time here, their work, and their effort matter. We will recognize it properly.

3. We support the transition.

Be it handovers, recommendations, or simply an open door—our help continues even as paths part.

4. We avoid hostility or exclusion.

No gossip. No silent treatment. No pettiness.

Our workplace is a reflection of who we are—and we choose maturity.

5. We stay open to the future.

People return. People refer. People respect us when we treat them right.

The true test of a workplace’s culture is not just how it welcomes someone in—but how it lets them go.

As the poet said:

“Let go with grace, not with grudge,

For every soul must shift and trudge.

They walked with us, gave heart and hand—

Let’s bless their step to a newer land.”

Let us be an organization that people leave with pride—and remember with warmth.

Thank you.

The blessing.

 Importance of Rituals Dedicated to the Dead in Hinduism

Pitru Paksh Shraddh, Tarpanam, Vavu Bali, Pinda Danam, Bali Tharpanam or Shraddham are the various names used to describe the rituals performed for the dead parents, relatives and ancestors in Hinduism. Shradh holds an important place in rituals associated with Hindu religion and it is performed without fail by most Hindus. Apart from the immediate rituals after a death, there are also annual rituals like Pitru Paksh Shradh in North India west and East India, Aadi Amavasai in Tamil Nadu, Karikadaka Vavu Bali in Kerala, Basant Panchami in Eastern parts of India and Amavasya rituals in other places. 

Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita talks about the journey of the dead and about the importance of the rituals dedicated to them. Annual Shraddh is usually performed during the Dakshinayana period (July to December).

Prashna Upanishad indicates that the rituals performed on the first Krishna Paksha Amavasya during Dakshinayana period directly reach the Dead. In South India, the first Amavasi after Dakshinayana is considered highly favorable for performing the Shraddham.

Shraddh should be performed with a pious mind. The person who performs the Shraddh should realize that for his birth, body, knowledge, wealth and sanskar he/she is indebted to the ancestors. All that is there was given by the ancestors. So the rituals performed is accepting this fact and is sort of thanksgiving. Both male and female relatives of the dead can perform the rituals. 

The rituals including the ‘pind dhan’ that are performed reach the dead ancestors through the rays of Surya (Sun.) It is said that a year of humans is a day for the dead and therefore the ancestors enjoy the fruits of the annual Shraddh throughout the year. 

Another belief is that the souls of dead remain in peace in Pitru Loka as a result of the rituals performed by their children or relatives. It is also said that the dead bless them for this and it helps the children and relatives to lead a good life on earth. 

Equally important is feeding the poor on the day. Whenever rituals dedicated to the dead are performed, people distribute food and clothes among the poor. 

Usually the rituals are performed on a riverbank or on seashore. There are also temples in India where the rituals can be performed like the famous Vishnupad Temple in Gaya, Bihar. In some places crows are invited to feed on the rice cake that is prepared for the ritual.

The method of performing the rituals slightly varies from region to region. But the essence of the ritual is the same. 

It is the duty of all Hindus to perform Shradh for their dead ancestors.

Origin of Pindadaan – Worship of Pinda in Shradh

Origin of Pindadaan, or worship of Pinda, which is part of Shradh rituals is found in the Shantiparva of Mahabharat. The Varaha incarnation of Lord Vishnu introduced the concept of Pinda to the world. Pinda means a rice bowl.

Legend has it that he created three Pindas from his molar tooth and placed it on darbha grass facing south direction.

The three pindas are representatives of father, grandfather and great grandfather.

He then performed ritualistic worship of Pindas with sesame or til seeds.

The worship of Pinda for deceased ancestors began under the guidance of Varaha.

Pindadaan is mentioned in the Yajurveda and Gruhya Sutra.

Tilodaka – Water Charged with Til or Sesame Seeds in Shradh Rituals

Tilodaka in Shradh rituals is water mixed with Til or sesame or ellu. The water containing sesame seeds is charged with mantras and is of special significance in the Shradh ritual.

It is believed that the water charged with sesame helps in attracting the attention of ancestors in the pitru world. An energy whirlpool is created inside the vessel and the pitrus are attracted to it. This helps the pitrus to enter the earth world quickly.

In Shradh ceremony, panchabuthas which form the body is also represented through Til.

Importance of Darbha in Shradh Rituals

Darbha, also known as Kusa or Darbhai or Durva, is of great importance is Shradh rituals dedicated to ancestors. It plays an important role in all death related rituals in Hinduism because it generates positive radiance. When darbha is used, the positive radiance emitted from it helps sattvic particles to prosper and it also negates the rajasvic and tamasic particles. The deceased soul is thus able to absorb only sattvic energy.

As Darbha creates a positive atmosphere, the shradh ritual becomes effective in lesser time.

If any component is missing during Shradh ritual, it can be filled by placing the grass with root.

The darbha for Shradh ritual should be plucked from clean ground. Darbha for shradh should be plucked along with the root. Darbha with root helps pitrus in attaining victory in Pitruloka.

Use of Akshat or Akshata in Shradh and Tarpan Rituals

Akshat or Akshata is the unbroken rice used in Shradh and Tarpan Rituals dedicated to dead ancestors in Hinduism. Akshat is widely used in numerous other Hindu ceremonies.

In Shradh ritual, it is used by the priest to bless the person or group that conducted the Shradh rituals.

The priest blesses the hosts by sprinkling unbroken rice.

Only unbroken rice or barley is used for the purpose.

Performance.

 https://youtu.be/R67k9KBY7so?si=sLEyiAP1ajvcsdXP

Performance during the visit of the p.m. sounds at Gangaikonda cholapuram.

Another superb rendition.

 #bhagavadgita​ #bhagavadgitaintamil​ #bhaktimusic​ #chinmayamission​ #gitaintamil​ #gitachanting​ #ilayaraja​ #ilayarajamusic​ #sacredverses​ Chinmaya Mission’s heartfelt gift to the global Tamil diaspora – the Bhagavad Gita in Tamil.

Must watch.surely the best use of A1 utility. God bless all who were instrumental in this superb display of bhagvad Gita. 

https://youtu.be/wcdboLG542k?si=yRhT6EbYM61exs1a

As we celebrate 75 glorious years of Chinmaya Mission, we proudly present the timeless wisdom of the Gita in the world’s oldest language.

Select verses have been enriched with the divine music of Maestro Ilaiyaraaja, while all 18 chapters are also available in their traditional chanting style in Chinmaya Mission Chennai YouTube channel, offering a complete spiritual experience.

This sacred offering was released by Hon’ble Prime Minister Thiru Narendra Modi avargal on 27th July 2025, at the historic Gangaikondacholapuram temple, a moment that blends devotion, culture, and history.

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To make this treasure accessible for today’s generation, the entire video has been created using advanced AI technology – seamlessly weaving together verses, visuals, and music into a unique digital experience.

This is our humble tribute to Gitacharya, Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda, whose vision continues to guide seekers across the world.

Immerse yourself in this dynamic manual of life, now in Tamil – timeless wisdom for every age.

#BhagavadGita​ #GitaInTamil​ #Ilaiyaraaja​ #ChinmayaMission​ #75YearsChinmayaMission​ #PMModi​ #AIExperience​ #Vedanta​ #TamilLanguage​

M,s 5 c,s

The 5 Cs: Conviction, Commitment, Courage, Communication, and Change.

In every age and culture, certain values rise above the flux of time, shaping individuals into beacons of purpose and power. Among these, five timeless qualities stand out—Conviction, Commitment, Courage, Communication, and Change. Together, they form the backbone of meaningful leadership and personal growth. These are not merely qualities but choices—decisions made daily in thought, word, and deed.

Conviction: The Inner Flame

Conviction is the unwavering belief in a principle, ideal, or truth. It arises from introspection, learning, and clarity of conscience. Unlike opinion, which wavers in the face of opposition, conviction stands firm. It is a quiet but potent force, anchoring individuals in storms of doubt. Conviction gives direction—it defines what one will stand for, and more importantly, what one will not fall for.

Commitment: The Strength to Stay the Course

Conviction may ignite the journey, but commitment sustains it. It is the steady, tireless devotion to a cause, even in the face of monotony or adversity. True commitment is not flamboyant—it is found in the discipline of everyday effort, the resilience to begin again after every failure. It transforms lofty vision into tangible action, ensuring that values translate into reality.

Courage: The Power to Risk and Rise

Where there is commitment, there must also be courage. Courage is not the absence of fear but the will to act despite it. It is the strength to speak when silence is safer, to try when failure is likely, and to endure when surrender seems easier. Courage empowers conviction to step into the world. It fuels transformation, breaks inertia, and opens the door to change.

Communication: The Art of Connection

Even the most virtuous intent is incomplete without communication. The ability to express, listen, and engage with empathy bridges the inner world of conviction with the outer world of action. True communication is not about clever words, but about clarity, authenticity, and connection. It builds trust, dissolves division, and nurtures shared purpose. A leader who cannot communicate is a lighthouse without light.

Change: The Willingness to Evolve

All the previous four Cs find their fulfillment in the fifth—change. Leadership and personal excellence demand not only consistency but evolution. Change is not just reacting to the world, but reimagining it. It requires humility to learn, adaptability to grow, and vision to lead forward. Change is the fruit of conviction planted, commitment watered, courage protected, and communication shared.

The 5 Cs are not tools we use occasionally, but virtues we must embody consistently. Together, they form a living code for anyone who seeks to lead—not necessarily over others, but over their own fears, doubts, and limitations. In embracing conviction, commitment, courage, communication, and change, we do not merely build success—we build significance.

Just be.

 “Just observing and judging nothing” is a profound practice rooted in mindfulness and non-attachment. It teaches several deep lessons:

 1. Presence without Interference

You learn to stay in the present moment without trying to fix, label, or alter it. You’re simply being, not doing — which allows reality to reveal itself more clearly.

“When you observe without judgment, you see what is, not what you want it to be.”

 2. Awareness of Inner Patterns

By not judging, you start to notice your mental habits, biases, and fears as they arise. You see how quickly the mind wants to categorize everything as good/bad, right/wrong — and this awareness is liberating.

 3. Cultivation of Equanimity

You develop a calm neutrality — equanimity — where experiences don’t throw you off balance. Joy and sorrow, praise and blame are seen for what they are: passing waves.

4. Space for Truth

When we judge, we filter the world through our ego. When we don’t, we allow the truth to emerge unfiltered. This opens the door to compassion, understanding, and clarity.

5. Letting Go

Non-judgmental observation trains the mind to let go — of control, of expectations, of clinging. This detachment isn’t indifference; it’s peaceful freedom.

“The moment you start observing without labeling, a deeper intelligence awakens.” – J. Krishnamurti

In short, it teaches acceptance, insight, humility, and peace — without needing to change anything at all.

I sat beside the flowing stream,

Not chasing thought, nor chasing dream.

A bird flew past, a leaf fell down,

I neither smiled, nor wore a frown.

No right, no wrong, no tale to weave,

Just breath, just wind, just rustling leaves.

The world, unfiltered, passed me by,

A canvas under open sky.

I saw the clouds, I felt the rain,

But named it not as joy or pain.

And in that space, so vast, so still,

The heart forgot its need to will.

A truth arose, serene and clear—

All passes by; I need not steer.

To simply be, to softly see,

Is to be boundless, wild, and free.

Holkar Ahalya

 Ahilyabai Holkar, one of the most revered and iconic women rulers in Indian history:

Ahilyabai Holkar: The Philosopher Queen of Malwa

In the annals of Indian history, where tales of valor and devotion fill countless chapters, few names shine as luminously as Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. Known as the “Philosopher Queen” and the “Saint Queen,” she ruled the Malwa kingdom in the 18th century with wisdom, humility, and an iron sense of justice. She is remembered not only for her administrative prowess and military acumen but also for her immense contributions to temple building and dharmic welfare across the Indian subcontinent.

Early Life: The Spark of Destiny

Ahilyabai was born in 1725 in the village of Chandesar, near Ahmednagar in Maharashtra, into a modest Brahmin family. Unlike royal princesses, she did not enjoy a privileged upbringing, but her destiny was to be extraordinary. Her intelligence and piety caught the attention of Malhar Rao Holkar, a trusted general of the Maratha Empire under Peshwa Baji Rao I. Defying convention, Malhar Rao chose Ahilyabai as a bride for his son, Khanderao Holkar.

Despite initial challenges in adapting to court life, Ahilyabai earned respect for her conduct, learning, and deep empathy for the poor and afflicted.

Tragedy and Rise to Power.

In 1754, tragedy struck when Khanderao Holkar died during the siege of Kumher. This could have ended Ahilyabai’s public life, as widows in that era often faced societal withdrawal or even sati. However, with the strong backing of her father-in-law, she chose the path of responsibility.

When Malhar Rao passed away in 1766, Ahilyabai took over the reins of the Holkar state. Facing initial resistance from nobles who questioned a woman’s authority, she proved herself through determination, strategic thinking, and compassion.

A Model Ruler: The Reign of Justice and Welfare

Ahilyabai Holkar’s rule (1767–1795) is often cited as a golden age in Malwa. She established Indore as her capital and transformed it into a center of governance, culture, and learning. Her reign was marked by several key accomplishments:

1. Efficient Administration

She was a hands-on ruler who personally handled petitions and grievances of her subjects. Her court was known for justice and impartiality. Corruption and exploitation were dealt with firmly.

2. Military Strategy

Though deeply spiritual and peace-loving, Ahilyabai maintained a disciplined army. She personally led campaigns when necessary and successfully defended her kingdom from invaders, earning the respect of even her rivals.

3. Patron of Dharma and Temples

Perhaps her most enduring legacy lies in the reconstruction and renovation of temples across India. At a time when many sacred places were destroyed or dilapidated, she rebuilt or restored:

Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi

Somnath Temple in Gujarat

Temples in Rameswaram, Ayodhya, Dwarka, Gaya, and Mathura

Ghats and rest houses along the Ganga and other rivers

Unlike other rulers, she undertook these projects outside her own territory, driven by devotion rather than politics. She used her personal wealth, never taxing her people for religious constructions.

4. Infrastructure and Public Welfare

Ahilyabai built wells, tanks, roads, dharamshalas, and educational institutions. Her focus on practical welfare made her deeply loved. She emphasized local governance and encouraged agriculture and trade.

What set Ahilyabai apart was her spiritual grounding and simple lifestyle. She began her day with prayers, administered state affairs with transparency, and was accessible to the common people. She wore plain clothes and lived modestly, setting an example for her ministers and subjects alike.

She was influenced by saints and philosophers, including Tukaram, Ramdas, and Tulsidas. Her letters and conversations reflect deep wisdom, moral clarity, and compassion.

Ahilyabai ruled for nearly 30 years and passed away in 1795, leaving behind a legacy that resonates to this day. She was mourned across India, not as a queen, but as a mother of the people. Her memory is honored with:

Statues in Indore, Maheshwar, and Kashi

The Ahilya Udyan and Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore

Countless temples and ghats that bear her name

Even the British acknowledged her excellence. Historian John Keay called her “one of the most revered figures in Indian history.”

Ahilyabai Holkar’s life is a beacon of courage, devotion, governance, and dharmic living. In an age of war and instability, she brought peace, order, and prosperity. As a female ruler in a patriarchal society, she shattered boundaries through compassion and capability. Her story is not just about ruling a kingdom but about redefining kingship itself—governance as service.

She remains, in every sense, a Rajarshi—a royal sage whose throne was built not on power, but on dharma, seva, and unwavering love for her people and God.