ONE MORE RUPEE

 

                                                                

Traditions are deeply influenced by beliefs and practices, and "Shagun," which means "good fortune," is no different. One such custom is typically observed during auspicious occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and ceremonies marking significant milestones in one’s life and has a deeper meaning.

 

Hinduism emphasizes the cyclical tradition of life and death, where ‘zero’ (shunya) indicates the end and ‘one’ is the beginning of something new. Beginnings are linked to optimism and ends to negativity. Giving money as a gift in numbers ending with zero, like 500, 1,000, and so on, has ominous implications. So an extra rupee is added to ensure a fresh start.

The addition of one rupee to monetary gifts, as above, is far more than a mere token of generosity; it is laden with symbolism and significance. It is seen as a blessing and prayer of happiness and prosperity for the recipient.

Festivals and gatherings are good opportunities to foster and strengthen communal ties. This was especially prevalent in the days of the forefathers. To encourage this community feeling, the additional 'one rupee' was seen as a benign debt on the receiver’s part. They had to repay it by accepting and attending the giver’s festivals whenever the time came, ensuring a continuum in social relations.

Drawing an analogy from the Mahabharata, where Lord Krishna’s boon of a vessel (Akshyapatra) to Draupadi would always have some extra rice (anna) for feeding everyone, the ‘one-rupee’ signifies a bit of leftover money for the receiver as well. The extra amount becomes a symbol of hope that difficult times will pass.

In the olden days, social gatherings were generally limited to marriages. Guests blessed the newlyweds to be united against all challenges. It manifested into the idea of gifting a sum of money that was not an ‘even’ number and could not be equally divided. This was to ensure that the couple did not quarrel over wealth and prospered together instead.

Further, the additional rupee is always a coin because they are made of metal, or ‘dhaatu’. The human body is constituted by ‘Ashtadhaatu’ or eight elements. Metals are propitious and a symbol of Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu deity of wealth. Gold and silver coins were given as gifts in the past before the minting of steel and copper coins. Therefore, the gifting of a metallic coin adds to the holiness of the festivity.

Finally, both practically and symbolically, Shagun is a force for development and prosperity. With the extra rupee, the recipient is encouraged to invest in their future, even though the primary amount is meant for immediate use. Like the popular tale of an enterprising boy who made a fortune from a paisa, it also encourages the receiver’s intellectual capacity to make a lasting impact from small but steady efforts.

The fact that generations are still carrying out this ancient tradition is evidence of the timeless customs that unite communities across time and location.

 

A Trader's perspective

Lashkar (Baade) market is in the heart of Gwalior city. Being Sunday, market was brimmed with pre-festival crowds with people from the outskirts and cantonment areas of the city. Brisk business activity in shops decorated with colour lights and illuminations, dwellers with variety of items were occupied in pavements. Eateries selling hot samosas, Pani puri, kababs and colourful drinks have added to a Mela atmosphere. Dogs and cattle without fear crisscrossed amongst the crowd. Pickpocketeers and urchins have a field day unnoticed. Party volunteers and other agencies and law protectors were also busy, collecting their ‘hafta’ as a right.

As Lokesh Bhai of Umang Textiles canvassed from the storefront, he noticed two people approaching his store, giving him a half-smile. He courteously invited them into the shop.

‘ Do you have Baniyans?', asked the lanky first person.

‘ Yes sir, and showed them a famous brand. ‘ Sir, this is of the best quality, and your size is 36 inches.’

He was searching for the label, Lokesh Bhai thought and asserted it as‘Turtle’ brand and of ‘36’ inches. The visitor took a card from his pocket, which displayed him as an Inspector from the Weights and Measures, never even in the dreams expected by Lokesh Bhai.

‘What happened, sir?

‘ Don’t you know that the measurement rule has been changed to show in ‘centimetres’ and not ‘Inches'? When shall it be enforced if it goes like this in the  country? Are you not aware of the law”.

‘Sir, it’s mentioned there in small...’ Moreover, is it not the company responsible for the label’?

‘ Shut up; you will argue and teach me? Shouted the Inspector.

' Sorry sir, I’m a small trader and illiterate, so clearing a doubt, sir.’ Lokesh Bhai closed his mouth with his hands.

The Inspector took the challan book, scribbled something and asked to bind the whole bundle.

‘Sir, sir, please, I am a small trader,” pleaded.He was sweating and took a towel and freshened himself, keeping an eye on him for the next word.

‘ Now small, and like this has become big’, Inspector extended the Challan to him. The other person came from behind and murmured in Lokesh Bhai’s ears not to accept the challan, come what may.

Lokesh whispered back 'Do you think I am mad? What are you in W&M?’

Before waiting for his reply, he packed two more 36" Turtle Baniyans, folded in Shops’ cover, and with a broad smile gave Inspector. Without turning back, he collected the package and moved to Lallan Singh's next shop.

‘ I am Chaprasi ( Peon ) to Sir. You only give me two 32’’ briefs”, Peon said.

Infuriated, Lokesh Bhai abruptly ordered him to hurry to his boss. The peon then left after threatening to see him in court sooner in a louder voice.

The incident was eventually forgotten. Three months after the incident, Lokesh Bhai was surprised to receive a court notice requiring him to appear in Moti mahal Sessions Court on the Challan issue within twenty days of the notice date. After morning prayers, he hurried to the court on the appointed day.

Lokesh Bhai managed to stand in front of the judge in the box when his call came, even though the courtroom was packed.

 When the judge asked him to give his version of events, he asked him directly, "My lord, are you wearing a banian?"

 The court burst out laughing.

 The advocate from the petitioner interrupted to question the trader. On the other hand, the respondent asked if he also wore a banian. "Yes." What is wrong with you? 

To the security officer positioned beside the judge, Lokesh Bhai loudly posed the same query. He gave the same response as well.

Looking at the Judge he said:" When a customer requests it, I will only give them 36", not 90.

 As his interest in the scene grew, the judge also checked his Baniyan size in between.

Lokesh Bhai then stated, "I was given a challan for displaying a 36-inch banian that the company had labelled." I will only give 36 when a customer asks for it, not 90. You have confirmed that the banyan worn is in inches, my lord, after seeing the Advocate and Security. I want to know if there is a court justice system in place or I received an unfair treatment for no fault of mine".

"So where is the Inspector who issued the challan?" the judge inquired.

"My lord," said Lokesh Bhai, "he got away after obtaining two additional sets of 36" from me and was never seen again, but his peon is present here."

The judge rendered the following decision after hearing the entire story in detail:

"Until additional investigation is conducted, the issued challan will not be enforced and will be considered, cancelled. Future sales of Lokesh Bhai's products under inches are permitted at Umang Textiles.

The judge smiled and glanced at Lokesh Bhai to see if he was happy.

 The trader then said, "No, my lord," to the judge. "Although the peon has taken two 32-inch briefs, he has not paid for them".

The judge instructed him to leave the courtroom and promised to settle the amount with him shortly.

Neither the judge, the advocate, nor the security could track down the peon in the courtrooms.

Lokesh Bhai continues to serve the community as before with excellence.

Later on, it was reported that the peon's unpaid debt was never recouped!

    ---------------------------------------

(Credits : Col. KR Mani, EKLM  for the subject, freely adapted to this story.)

The metric system in weights and measures was adopted by the Parliament in December 1956 with the Standards of Weights and Measures Act, which took effect beginning 1 October 1958.

The Bell

Annamalai has been working as a peon in the company for almost twenty years. Although the salary is not very attractive, his face suggests that he is not satisfied with it.

 It was Annamalai who reached the office early in the morning, cleaned the place thoroughly, and did all the things to set it in order on the tables. No one called Annamalai by name. He knew that every bell was a call for him and from which table it came. An uncultured Manager once poured tea on him saying that the tea served was too sweet. But Annamalai swallowed his manager's arrogance patiently.

For whom is Annamalai living?  Nobody knows where does he live? Nobody knows Annamalai is from which place? Nobody knows anything about him. Everyone knows only one thing that Annamalai was here with the same work when they joined to work in this company. No one needs to ask anything. Annamalai will be there if you ring the bell in front.

 On the day  he gets the salary, there is a small smile on his face. But it may seem more beautiful than a smile with two lips parted and teeth visible.

The manager who came after the old manager who retired was a clean man. He started calling Annamalai, Anna, out of respect for his age. He looked curiously at the bell on his desk. And then said. "This is for you, Anna, I don't need it."

He took it and tucked it into his waist, keeping his reply to himself. The new manager's modesty has not caught any appreciation of other staff. Someone whispered there that every new fellow came with reforms.

Months later...  Annamalai did not come to the office that day.

The manager asked angrily as he came out of the cabin after hearing the bells ringing many times.

 "Doesn't anyone here know what his name is?

By ringing this bell in turns, do you want to make a fuss?

After a moment of silence, someone said softly.

 "I'm sorry sir, I haven't seen him until now, in office."

 "Is this what we need to do? Is it not proper enough to call him where he lives? What if he is not well or something? What's wrong if you do what he does for one day?.

 After a few minutes he shouted again. "Someone give me that number. I'll call and tell you the rest."

The manager dials the number on his mobile. After talking inside his cabin, he came out and said something to everyone with a bit of  sober voice. 

 "He won't come anymore if you ring this bell again. He died last night. Anyway, I am going to his place. It's not enough for me to show at least that much courtesy to that man. If any of you want to come with me, you can come. If nothing else, don't you all call on him."

Three people accompanied the manager. There was silence in the office.

Annamalai lived in a building attached to an old age home called "Nirvana". In the past, Annamalai was in this shelter with his wife. After his wife died a few years ago, he lived alone. Their children did not come as all of them are outside India. None came, either of their parent's demise. Even though he received all the money sent by them every month, Annamalai did not use a single penny of it. He has given it to the welfare fund of Nirvana. His affairs were going on with the money he got from working. He liked to spend his free time with the inmates of the asylum.

 As the ambulance went to the crematorium with the dead body, the watchman stopped describing Annamalai. With a sigh, he walked towards the premises of Nirvana.

The bells may still be ringing in that office, without Annamalai hearing the call. Thinking that Annamalai might be silently listening to the bell as if he were in some other world where the bells do not ring, the manager and his colleagues got into the car and started their journey back.

Another year passed by and a new Manager took over. As part of his reforms, he abolished the post of Peon and along with vanished the bells to market with other sundry items and old newspapers. 

It was not known, anybody remembered Annamalai then!

The Weight of Price: A Fisherman's Struggle

 

Madappa sold fish in the early morning at a corner near a busy junction and took on odd jobs in the evenings. Despite his efforts, he struggled to make ends meet while supporting his wife and two school-age children. He collected fish from a wholesaler named  Hydros Haji in the early hours, typically on credit, and repaid him weekly. Any unpaid dues were usually accepted by Haji as he allowed for easy installments. Like many others, Madappa felt the impact of inflation and often found himself echoing the common sentiment of frustration with the government's failures. There is no point in crying over something out of his control and has been surrendered to fate. 

Days went by, and one day, Madappa caught a good haul of healthy, large Braal fish for sale. He quickly reached the market, settled on a concrete slab, and confidently displayed his catch to the public.

The first client was a regular, government contractor named Ramaiah. With a broad smile, he addressed Madappa, saying, "Oh Madappa, I haven't seen you in a long time, and you've brought a fresh piece! How much should I pay for half a kilogram?"

"Are you serious? I can't cut and sell you half. The whole piece costs six hundred rupees, and there’s no room for negotiation," Madappa replied.

"It's fish, not gold to keep in a locker," Ramaiah retorted. "I don’t print money to waste!" He then left without waiting for a response.

Lazar from the RTO office approached Madappa and quoted a price of 400 Rupees, claiming that the fish would spoil by tomorrow and urging him to sell it quickly. However, Madappa refused, stating that he doesn’t collect a commission every day and is willing to wait until the fish is sold. A mix of familiar and unfamiliar faces came by to look at the fish, which was lying out of the water on a leaf mat in the mud, its eyes wide open and lifeless. Madappa felt equally drained, with the rising sun beating down on him and his stomach grumbling after more than 15 hours without food since the previous day.

Madappa then noticed a white Maruti car screeching to a halt in the nearby bylane. A tall young man wearing a red T-shirt, blue jeans, and sunglasses stepped out. He had a prominent tummy and was headed toward the opposite side of the road, where a chubby beauty named Vasanthi was selling flowers. Vasanthi had many young clients who often came to buy flowers and flirt with her.

In the next moment, the shadow of the man fell across Madappa, and to his astonishment, he recognized the young, handsome guy. The man had a tie around his neck bearing the name "Ravi Gulati," along with the logo of a well-known IT company. Madappa stood there, eyes wide, staring at him in disbelief.

“How much is it, and what’s the price? I hope it’s fresh. Do you sell it for me?” he asked breathlessly without taking a pause. 

Madappa felt a bit shaky, unsure of what price to quote based on his previous encounters. The urgency to get home for food weighed on him heavily. His mind was crowded with thoughts: school fees for his children, the unpaid debt to Hydros Haji, his wife showing him empty cans and requesting provisions, and more.

Madappa quickly regained his composure, fearing his client might return. "Sir, this is a rare and fresh piece that weighs more than one and a half kilos. I will charge you only eight hundred and fifty rupees”.

Ravi Gulati took two 500-rupee notes from his wallet and handed them to him, explaining that he didn’t have a carry bag and asked him to pack the fish in a piece of paper instead. Madappa quickly wrapped the fish using some leftover leaves and a sheet of newspaper where he sat down. As he searched his empty pockets, he found a twenty-rupee note and offered it to the young man, saying he didn’t have enough change to repay the balance.

The young Turk collected the parcel, smiled, and walked back to his parked car, leaving a few astonished onlookers behind.

Madappa closely followed the young man, admiring him for several yards as he thought about the protest march on "Inflation and Its Effect on the Common Man," which was addressed by Prof. Kamath, the State's Chief Economist.  Prof. Kamath said: "With other factors remaining constant, the sudden influx of money from the IT sector is causing inflation."

Even though Madappa didn't understand English, he made sure to have two new five-hundred rupee notes in his pocket.

Mannarasala Ayillyam.

Mannarasala is a renowned snake temple in Kerala, located near the towns of Alleppey and Harippad. It is believed to have been established by Sage Parasurama.

This area was once the Gandeeva forest from the Mahabharata, where Arjuna set a fire. The villagers who lived here worked tirelessly to save several snakes by continuously pouring water and soaking the land. Initially named "Man aariya Salai," this place later became known as "Mannarasalai" because it was a location where "the mud became cold."

Lord Parasurama built a temple at this location and brought several Brahmins to live there. However, the Brahmins eventually left due to the presence of numerous snakes and the saline water. In response, Lord Parasurama performed penance to Lord Shiva, who advised him that if he requested the help of Vasuki, the king of snakes, everything would be resolved. Following this advice, Parasurama approached Vasuki, who was pleased with his request.

Vasuki assured him, “These snakes will stay here but will not harm anyone in this village. The people of this village must build a snake temple in their homes and light a lamp in front of it at dusk. I will personally remove the salt from this village and mix it into the sea.”

With this assurance, Parasurama was pleased and returned with the Brahmins. They were all Namboodiri Brahmins who settled in the village and lived happily. Parasurama then built a temple dedicated to Naga Raja and Naga Yakshi in that location. He designated one family, known as Irinada Palli, to reside in the temple compound. The first residents of this house were Vasudevan Namboodiri and his wife, Sridevi Andarjanam.

The family continued to care for the temple. Over time, the only surviving couple did not have any children. They prayed at the temple, and as a result, they were blessed with two sons. One of these sons was a five-headed snake, born under the Aslesha (Ayilyam) star in the month of Kumbha (February-March).

As soon as the snake's son was born, he spoke to his mother, saying, “We, the snakes, are very happy with your family. We would like the eldest female member of your family to conduct the ceremonial worship in our temple. Since you are the eldest, I will teach you all the rituals that must be followed.”

He taught his mother the rituals, and from that day onward, the worship in the temple has been performed by the eldest woman of the family, known as Mannarsala Amma (Mother).

The snake's son entered a dark storeroom in the house, cautioning that no one should enter. However, the room is opened once a day for worship by the Amma of the temple. She usually places a cup of milk inside and then closes the door. The next day, she discovers the cup is empty.

The snake in the store is known as "Grandfather" by everyone and is revered by all. The son born from this snake established two temples in Mannarsala: one dedicated to Naga Raja and the other to Naga Yakshi. One of the snakes at the temple was given as a dowry for a girl who married into a Brahmin family in Kayamkulam. This snake later entered the storeroom of their house, which led to the construction of a similar temple to Mannarsala, called Meypalli, located near Kayamkulam. The most important offering in the temple is “noorum palaum,” a mixture of rice powder, turmeric powder, and milk that is placed outside the temple at night.

In the morning, the contents of the vessel are poured into the ground. The Noorum Palum is also given to the grandfather in the storehouse. However, when the store is opened the next day, the contents of the vessel have vanished. It is well known that the snakes of the temple do not bite anyone; even if they do bite, it has no harmful effects on the person. Additionally, it is widely accepted that nothing is stolen from the temple, as the snakes are believed to protect the property.

A significant festival is celebrated in this temple during the Ashlesha (Ayilyam) star, which falls in the month of Thula (October-November). One of the most popular offerings at Mannarasala is the Uruli Kamazhthu, which involves offering a traditional bronze vessel. This temple is well-known for helping couples conceive children, and thousands of people visit to perform this sacred and unique offering to Nagaraja.

Individuals who wish to have children and those affected by Sarpa dosha visit this temple in the hope that their issues will be resolved. A special turmeric paste available at the shrine is believed to have the power to cure leprosy.

                                                     🙏

Mystery of Chanakys's death

In ancient India, Acharya Chanakya was highly regarded as a great philosopher, thinker, and politician who extensively influenced economics and statecraft. In fact, the highly cherished Indian books on Economics, Arthasashtra, and Chanakya Neeti, were attributed to him. Chanakya lived from 275 BC to 350 BC.

He was often called Kautilya, which means "shrewd," or Vishnugupta because of his extraordinary talent for elevating great kings with his intellect. He received his education at Takshashila, the foremost educational institution of his time, and he was born into a high-caste Brahmin family.

Emperor Chandragupta appointed Chanakya as the Prime minister of the Mauryan kingdom. Chanakya, always vigilant to the movements of the emperor's enemies, remained by Chandragupta's side like a shadow, serving him as a true confidante.

Although Chanakya was a well-respected figure known for sharing life lessons, much about his own life remains mysterious. Scholars have made numerous attempts to uncover the true circumstances of his death, which still appear unresolved.

Possible explanations for Chanakya's death, as recorded in history, thus follows:-

Over time, the people of Pataliputra faced severe famine. Distressed and disillusioned by his inability to ease their suffering, Chandragupta chose to pass the kingdom to his son, Bindusara. Disenchanted, he left the country, converted to Jainism, and lived as a Monk.

Bindusara, who took on the kingdom's responsibilities, allowed Chanakya, his father's right-hand man, to remain as Prime Minister.

Chanakya continued to serve Bindusara and developed a close relationship with him. However, out of jealousy and the desire to become Prime Minister, another minister named Subandhu poisoned Bindusara's mind against Chanakya. He falsely accused Chanakya of being responsible for the death of Bindusara's mother. Under this mistaken belief, Bindusara severed all ties with Chanakya. Heartbroken by this betrayal, Chanakya chose to starve himself to death. Later, a nurse who had cared for Bindusara's mother, Durdha, revealed the truth about her death, which cleared Chanakya's name of the false accusations against him.

After learning the truth about the incident from the palace physicians, Bindusara decided to fast and sought forgiveness from Chanakya, pleading with him to return. However, Chanakya remained resolute in his decision and continued his own fast. Bindusara's frustration over the failure of his mission was directed at Subandhu. At the palace, Bindusara summoned Subandhu and ordered him to apologize to Chanakya and bring him back immediately. He warned that if this order was not fulfilled, Subandhu would be punished severely.

Subandhu, disapproving of Chanakya's return to court, decided to eliminate him by any means necessary. He convinced Bindusara that Chanakya had agreed to return and organize a grand reception to honor him. As preparations were underway to receive Chanakya, Subandhu stealthily approached Chanakya's hermitage (Parnashala) during his hunger strike. He threw a torch at the hermitage, setting the cow dung surrounding it on fire. Chanakya, who was meditating in the area, was unaware of the impending danger. Exhausted and weakened from his prolonged fasting, he was unable to escape the flames. Tragically, the great minister of the Maurya Empire was consumed by the fire.

Acharya Chanakya dedicated his life to demonstrating his strategic mastery. His calm demeanor led to the creation of the Chanakya Neeti Shastra, which significantly influenced historical patterns.

Return to roots- a reflection for a new journey of peaceful life.

  

Tottathil Tamarakshan Pillai, often called TTP, has had a hectic week filled with meetings, interviews, and challenges related to production targets, leaving him exhausted. He yearns for a weekend of complete rest. After more than 15 years in various senior positions across different corporations in the Gulf, he feels that he has had enough of this strenuous lifestyle.

He suddenly remembered that he had forgotten to transfer money to both his mother and wife separately this month. Feeling nostalgic for his family, friends, and hometown, he began to look through the emails and letters that had been left unattended for some time. He particularly considered the idea of settling down in his native town. His close friend, who had organized the correspondence in alphabetical order for no particular reason, had left it neatly arranged on the bedside table as Pillai scanned through it.

What is a viable business idea to start in my hometown to promote a peaceful life after returning from expatriation?

Aleena Thomas: Sales of Kerala State Lottery Tickets.

Babu Kallingal: Try to become a Panchayat President; everything else will follow.

Charles Korea: Brandy trade is increasing in demand, and many people are buying brandy from beverage sub-agencies where you have applied to the government.

Damu Poriyath: Join CPM and experience a life of ease without the need to work.

Epen Varughese: A recruitment agency specializing in hiring foreign workers, assisting with visa and travel document arrangements, and more.

Fathima Moidu: Spiritual business. No Investment. Canvass people for Umrah and hand them over to a Travel agency.

Govindan Nair: When you return, try to keep the money you have. First, buy a cane chair and place it in a sit-out area. Sit on it, buy a few newspapers, and spend your time reading. Food will be provided from time to time.

Hariharan Potti: Don’t wait to start your work or business as soon as you arrive. Delaying too long may lead to running out of cash and having to return home. Make sure to deposit your money in a Co-operative Bank so you can earn good interest.

Indira Korath: Start a beauty parlor and hire two or three young beauticians. The ambiance should be excellent, and your income will be assured.

Jamaludeen: Fish trading requires less investment and offers the potential for greater profits throughout the year.

Kunhikannan: A small tea stall offers native snacks like parippu vada, pazhampori, and Bajji, and boasts a thriving business.

Lazer Pothiyil: My opinion is that it would be very, very good if shoe, bag, and umbrella shops were started on the part of any school and near the town area.

Moideen Mamprath: If you have the cash, consider purchasing an affordable small plot of land nearby that has access to water. On that land or your current property, you can take out a loan to secure government benefits and insurance. Use the funds to build a stable and acquire five or six buffaloes. These buffaloes can be used on the farm during the growing season and can also be sold for meat at local markets.

Nanu S. Pillai: If your current work is going smoothly, consider postponing your plans to go home for now and focus on settling in. Instead of using the company ticket, buy your own ticket and enjoy your time with your family.

Obaidullah Kareem: Start a travel agency as a broker, earning commission on bus tickets between minor and major stations in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, or Karnataka. This can be a lucrative business.

Parvathy Puranthoppil: Consider starting a business in Tamil Nadu instead of Kerala to live happily.

Quttabuddin Hyder Ali: Open a bakery goods and refreshing beverages shop.

Ramesh R.: Select a suitable location for a small shop selling newspapers, magazines, books, and writing materials. Aim for a relaxed atmosphere with less business stress.

Sadashivan Kuruppath: A distribution agency for paints and related activities can be profitable.

Tomy George: Be cautious; starting a business in a country with communist influences can be challenging.

Ubaid Hasan: Stick to your current profession; this minimizes risks associated with starting anew.

Viswanathan Iyer: Affordable meal delivery services are essential for senior citizens in Kerala who face age-related health issues and cannot manage household tasks, including cooking.

Wilson James: Sports equipment is in high demand. Stores that stock these items can sell them for significant profits.

Xavier Johnson: Cattle, chicken, and pig farms offer significant business opportunities, especially when supplying college hostels, hospital canteens, and military camps.

Yasodharan Thambi: Consider obtaining a franchise for Ayurvedic and homeopathic products. This option offers low risk and the potential for steady income.

Zakaria Kurien: A mini supermarket offering stationery, provision items, and vegetables is rapidly growing, leading to reasonable and consistent profit. 

The mobile phone rang persistently, interrupting his sleep and dreams. It was a call from the Chief General Manager, requesting an immediate meeting with His Highness the Sheik. TTP was to personally collect the promotion order and take on the role of Salala Project Head. Without hesitation, TTP left to meet the Sheik, setting his dreams aside for later.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

Deepavali and Kashi Sri Annapoorani

 

Deepavali, the festival of lights, also celebrates delicious food, especially in Kasi, where the golden deity of Annapoorani, the goddess of nourishment, takes center stage, attracting countless devotees to the temple.

According to the Puranas, Parvati once playfully closed Paramasivan's eyes, which resulted in devastating darkness enveloping the earth and affecting all living beings. To rectify this, Sivan opened his third eye. Feeling remorseful for her playful act, Parvati decided to perform penance on earth. She took residence in Kasi, adopting the name Annapoorani, and was depicted holding a rice bowl in one hand and a serving ladle in the other. 

The once-prosperous town fell into the grip of famine, and the King prayed to Annapoorani to relieve their suffering. She answered his prayers and eased the famine. In gratitude, the King asked her to stay in Kasi for eternity to ensure the prosperity of his subjects, and she graciously agreed.

According to the Kasi Kandam, Brahma originally had five heads, and Shiva removed the fifth head, which symbolized ego. To atone for this act, Shiva traveled to Kasi and prayed to Annapoorani to relieve him of the consequences. The Purana states that she offered him a ladle of rice as alms. Since she fed Lord Shiva Himself, devotees pray to her with complete faith and fervor.

 The Annakoot festival is celebrated in India each year after Deepavali. On this occasion, the Sri Annapoorna temple attracts a large crowd of devotees. Mountains of fruits, sweets, and cereals are presented before the Goddess and then distributed to the poor as Prasad. Coins are also given to the devotees, and it is believed that anyone who worships these coins will be blessed with a successful and prosperous life.

A highlight of the temple is that every year, on the day before Deepavali, the golden idol of Sri Annapoorna is opened for darshan (viewing). This idol can only be seen on that day, making it a truly remarkable sight. Goddess Annapoorna is seated in the center, holding her bowl and ladle. On her left is Goddess Lakshmi, and on her right is Sri Bhudevi. All of these idols are made of pure gold and are stunning to behold. In front of them stands Shiva, made of silver, asking for alms. A grand procession accompanies the event of Annapoorani in a chariot, adorned with laddoos, which is another highlight during the celebrations.

Sri Annapoorna Temple is located on Dashaswamedh Road, Viswanath Gali, near the Kashi Viswanath Temple in Varanasi.

There is a legend from southern India that tells how Lord Shiva was cured of a curse known as bharamahatya dosha. This curse resulted from Shiva removing one of Lord Brahma's five heads. According to the legend, Brahma's skull became attached to Shiva's hand, earning him the name Kapalieeshwara. The curse was lifted when Shiva was offered food by Annapurna Devi. Consequently, all the tri-devi goddesses are referred to as Annapurna Devi.

 अन्नपूर्णे सदापूर्णे शङ्करप्राणवल्लभे ।

                                         ज्ञानवैराग्यसिद्ध्यर्थं भिक्षां देहि च पार्वति ॥११॥

                                      (Srimad  Shankaracharya )                                                                                                  

Meaning:
 O Mother Annapoorna, You Who are always Full (with the gift of Food and Blessings), You Who are the Beloved of Shankara,  O Mother Parvati, Please grant me the Alms of Your Grace, to awaken within me Spiritual Knowledge and Freedom from all Worldly Desires.

(**Reposted  an article: 'Faith' - The Hindu, dated 28/10/2024, and Nangia Blogs, dated 28/10/2016, with minor modifications)

The Legend of Sudarshana Chakra

There is a very popular legend behind the origin of the Sudarshan Chakra. According to this theory, the Sudarshan Chakra was created from the Sun’s rays. Viswakarma, the architect of the cosmic Gods, had married his daughter Sanjana to Surya Deva. However, due to the intense heat and light of Surya, Sanjana was unable to look at him and could not approach him. Sanjana told this misery to her father, Vishwakarma.

On hearing this request, Vishwakarma decided to lessen Surya’s shine. He collected Sun dust and made three objects. One was Lord Shiva’s Trishul, the next was Pushpaka Vamana, and the third was Sudarshan Chakra.

The sacred disc is always in a spinning motion and has 108 serrated edges. The Sudarshan Chakra is used for the destruction of evil and negative forces. The movement of this sacred wheel is initiated by mind control and the power of the will. Once the Chakra leaves the finger, it is still under the control of the wielder. The sacred wheel goes after the enemy relentlessly and does not return until the task at hand is accomplished. The sacred disc follows the path of zero-stress nature and can reach the target within the blink of an eye. The Sudarshan Chakra is noiseless, and in case of any obstacle in the path, it amplifies the speed. The Chakra has tremendous spiritual and supernatural powers.

The Sudarshan Chakra has six spokes and the Vajra at the center. The Chakra finds occasional mention in the ancient holy Vedic texts of the Rigveda, Yajurveda, and Puranas. The Sudarshan Chakra is a symbol of preserving law and order and annihilating the enemy.

According to popular belief, during the Dwapara Yuga, the eighth incarnation of Vishnu, Krishna is said to have acquired the Sudarshan Chakra from the fire God, Agni. When Sage Parashurama came to know this, he taught Krishna everything about the mastery of the weapon.

Another belief is that when Lord Krishna took incarnation Shri Vishnu gave him this Chakra which he could use immediately at any time, it was his own property. (Vishnu Purana Part-3 Cha.2). During Samudra Manthan, Lord Vishnu used the Sudarshan Chakra to cut through the Demon Swarbanu who then became Rahu and Ketu. During Daksha Yagna, Shri Vishnu used it to cut Sati's body into 51 parts which fell on Earth and became Shakti Peeths, holy places for worshipping Goddess Shakti.

The Mahabharata mentions that both Sri Krishna and the famous Pandava Arjuna assisted Agni Deva in burning the Khandava forest. Agni Deva was believed to be suffering from a severe stomach ailment. Brahma, the Creator, advised the Fire God to consume the Khandava forest, which was rich in herbs. However, Agni Deva found it difficult to enter the forest as Takshaka, the serpent king, resided in the Khandava forest. He was close to Indra, the King of Gods.

When Agni Deva tried to consume the forest, Indra would send thundershowers to extinguish the fire of Agni Deva. Sri Krishna and Arjuna arrived at the place one day. Donning the guise of a Brahmin, Agni Deva approached them for help, and they agreed. To fight Indra and his divine army, Agni Deva presented Sri Krishna with the divine Sudarshana Chakra and gave Arjuna the Gandheevam. Sri Krishna and Arjuna helped the Fire God burn down the Khandava forest. Thus, Sri Krishna received the Sudarshan Chakra.

Here are other three more popular stories where Sudarhana Chakra was used:-

1

 Shishupala was one of the relatives of Lord Krishna. When he was born, he had three eyes and four arms. It was prophesied that his surplus body parts would disappear when a certain person would take him on his lap, and the same person would kill him. The body parts of Shishupala disappeared when Lord Krishna took him on his lap when he was an infant. Shishupala’s mother requested Lord Krishna not to kill him. Therefore, Lord Krishna promised her that he would not do so until Shishupala committed 100 offenses. In the Pandavas’ Rajsuya yajna, Lord Krishna was honored as the chief guest of the ceremony. It infuriated Shishupala because Lord Krishna had married Rukmini whom he wished to marry. He also must have heard about the prophecy of his death. Therefore, he started verbally abusing Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna remained calm but warned him before his 100th offense, but it was in vain. He continued to abuse him and Pandavas. Therefore, Lord Krishna conjured the Sudarshana Chakra and ordered it to kill Shishupala. He ran here and there but was killed by the Sudarshana at last.

11  

According to the ancient Puranas, Sri Krishna held up the mighty Govardhan mountain when he was a child. The elderly people of Braj, including his father Nanda Maharaj, were preparing for the pooja for Indra, King of Gods when the child Sri Krishna asked them the purpose of the preparations. They explained that the pooja was performed every year to please Indra so that he would bestow abundant rain whenever they required. Sri Krishna replied that the farmers should concentrate on fulfilling their duties, by focusing on farming and protecting their cattle, instead of conducting poojas for a natural phenomenon such as rain. Upon hearing this, the villagers were convinced and did not perform the pooja.

Indra became furious, and he punished the people of Braj for listening to Sri Krishna. He sent terrible rainclouds and heavy showers to flood Vrindavan. The King of the heavens called upon the Samavartaka clouds of destruction to lash Vrindavan with torrents of rains and thunderstorms that would cause extensive damage to the crops and livelihood of the villagers. The thunderstorms and torrential rains lashed Vrindavan, which became submerged. Frightened villagers ran to Sri Krishna for help. Understanding the situation immediately, the child Sri Krishna lifted the Govardhan mountain at once with his left finger. He held it up like an umbrella, and all the villagers and their cattle took shelter under the mountain. For seven days, the villagers and cattle stayed safe under the mountain, without hunger or thirst, surprisingly. They were astounded and completely taken aback to see a child lift a mighty mountain with his finger.

It is said that Sri Krishna used the divine Sudarshan Chakra to support the Govardhan mountain from below as he lifted the mountain with his finger. It is said he used the celestial and sacred disc below the mountain for support. A stunned Indra called back the clouds of devastation. The skies became clear, and Sri Krishna bade the villagers return to the village with their cattle. Later, Indra came down and, with folded hands, asked Sri Krishna for forgiveness. Sri Krishna bestowed his grace upon Indra and enlightened him about Dharma and his duties.

111

Sri Krishna is believed to have used the Sudarshan Chakra in the epic Mahabharat, during the Kurukshetra war. Arjuna’s son Abhimanyu had been brutally killed by the Kauravas the previous day in war, and Arjuna had vowed to avenge his son’s death. Jayadrath was the main culprit. Arjuna had taken a terrible vow to kill Jayadrath before sunset the next day. If he failed in his mission, he would jump into a burning pyre and end his life. The Kauravas had planned to give all protection to Jayadrath as they knew the Pandavas, especially Arjuna would want revenge. They kept Jayadrath in hiding until it was time for sunset. The sunset and Jayadrath came in front of Arjuna, confident the latter had lost the challenge. The sun suddenly reappeared, and Sri Krishna advised Arjuna to shoot an arrow at Jayadrath quickly. Arjuna sent an arrow that beheaded Jayadrath. The sun stayed on for a while during this process and then set a second time.

It is widely believed that Sri Krishna used the divine Sudarshan Chakra to create a false sunset the first time around, forcing Jayadrath out into the open, and lulling him into a false sense of security that Arjuna had lost the challenge. As the eighth avatar of Vishnu, Sri Krishna used the Sudarshan Chakra on a few occasions.

 However, it is believed he never used the divine disc directly in the Kurukshetra battlefield to kill anyone.

Musings- 5

 Guruji

 Many people gathered to listen to Guruji's speech. After listening to his motivational speech, I was inspired for a while. I decided to accept his servitude. So, after the speech, I conveyed my request to him backstage. After hearing that, he laughed and said thus.

"Do you think I am a good man? But you don't want that. You have a hundred thousand ways to be like me. But you only have one way to be like yourself and live for yourself. Shouldn't you know that better than me? In that case, you should be enslaved to yourself."

 🙏

Typo-error

From the day he learned to write letters together, he started writing stories and poems by connecting each sentence like bogies. The truth is that many people called the whole writing by many names. All the readers started saying that the writing was good. Will write again for some time. Once he began to self-evaluate his writings, many of his writings did not match the letters. Many sentences are broken. He wrote not only stories and poems but all typos. He was angry with all the letters A and Aa and E and Ee. They gathered in front of him and protested in unison that he had been ignoring them for so long. Finally, he read the conjoined letters together - typo.

😶

The thought

I tend to be around people who think a lot about me rather than people who think a lot. We can think as much, or even more, with a quarter of the energy of believing what another person has thought and trying to put it into practice. It's just that no one is trying.

😌

Zero

My favorite number is zero. In its emptiness, there is a vast space to contain everything. When we recognize that and add it to the right side with us, we gain value. We become rich with heart.

😚

Understanding Mukhalinga of Lord Shiva

The linga is a divine image of Shiva. A linga with one or more human faces is known as Mukhalinga. 

As per Linga Purana, Panchanana Shiva represents the five faces of Lord Shiva. It also narrates the significance of Shiva. Each of these faces is assigned a specific aspect.

The names of the five faces of Lord Shiva are: Isana, Tatpurusha, Aghora, Vamadeva, and   Sadjyota.

The significance of Five Faces, according to Linga Purana are:-

The upper face is Ishana or Sadashiva, who oversees the sky and is rarely represented. Sadyojata or Mahadeva, the Earth’s protector, is shown on the East face. The West face is Tatpurusha or Nandi, which means “wind” in Sanskrit. Aghora or Bhairava (fire, Agni) faces South, whereas Vamadeva, Uma, or Tamreshvara faces North. In certain writings, the East face is called Tatpurusha, whereas the Western face is called Sadyojata. The five-aspect icon represents the entire universe.

To make it easier for individual Souls to adore him, the almighty, infinite, and eternal God Shiva has shown himself in various forms. “Nishkala” is the name given to the formless shape of Shivalinga. Mukhalingas, on the other hand, are Shivalingas with Shiva’s head on their faces and are classed as “Sakala Nishkala” form.

Five holds a deep significance in Hinduism, especially about Lord Shiva. One of the most venerated mantras of Lord Shiva, Namah-Shivaya, also consists of five syllables. 

It must be noted that Lord Shiva is said to be the supreme lord for the following five functions:

1.     Creation – Srishti: He creates all the worlds and beings.

2     Preservation – Sthithi: He is responsible for the continuation of all the worlds and beings. He is the sustaining power of breath (praneswara) and the digestive power of fire (jatharagni).

3      Concealment – Tirobhava: He is the one who casts the net of delusion or maya, upon the whole creation. He does it so that the order and regularity of the worlds are not disrupted.

  4. Revelation – Anugraha: He is the master of liberation. No one can achieve liberation without his grace and blessings. 

   5. Destruction – Laya or Samhara: He is the one responsible for death and destruction. However, with this aspect, he is also responsible for the renewal of life and rebirth.

Lord Shiva, revered among Hindus, is believed to exhibit five essential forms of existence, continuation, transformation, purification, and liberation. Consequently, we must recognize Shiva’s five faces and worship him accordingly.

Extension of Mukhalingas:-

Mukhalingas are found throughout India and Nepal. They are also found in the former Champa kingdom, which is now in Vietnam, as well as Cambodia and Borneo in Southeast Asia, and Afghanistan in western India. Similar images of phalluses with carved faces from Greece and Celtic Europe resemble Mukhalingas of Shiva. A five-faced Mukhalinga from Bhita, dated to the second century BCE, is one of the earliest examples of the Mukhalinga.

Om Namah Shivaya 🙏🏻