Sri Madhva Navami - A brief introduction of Sri Madhvacharya

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Prathamo Hanuman Nama Dwitheeyo Bheema Eva cha
Poornapragna Thrutheeyasthu Bhagavat Kaarya saadhakaha

Sri Madhvacharya
(1238 – 1317)

Sri Madhva Navami

(A brief introduction of Sri Madhvacharya)

Today is Sri Madhva Navami
24th January 2010

Hindu religion has produced several prominent saints and philosophers in the post era of Lord Sri Krishna, out of which three great spiritual personalities are in the forefront. They are Sri Sankaracharya who advocated Advaita Philosophy, Sri Ramaanujaachaarya who advocated Visishtaadvaita philosophy and Sri Madhwacharya who advocated Dvaita Philosophy. All the three are together known as the trinity of Aachaaryas. These three great Saints who have taken the glory of Hindu spirituality to new heights have left a marked influence on the Hindu religion with their doctrines.

Sri Madhwa Navami is associated with Sri Madhwacharya one of the greatest Hindu Saints and Philosophers who was the founder and exponent of Dvaita Philosophy. He was not only a great Saint and Philosopher; he was and is strongly believed and considered as the third incarnation of the Wind God (Lord Vayu) known as Mukhya Prana. Other two earlier in this lineage are Lord Hanuman in Treta Yuga and Sri Bheemasena in Dwapara Yuga. It is said that Sri Madhvacharya during his life time had openly identified himself as an incarnation of Lord Vayu which was evidenced by several miracles performed by him right from his childhood days.

Sri Madhvacharya known as Vasudeva during his childhood was born around 800 years back in a small village presently known as Pajaka Kshetra about 10 km from the temple town of Udupi near Mangalore in Karnataka State. He was born in a family of Shivalli Brahmins and was the son of Madhyageha Bhatta. Born in 1238 AD Sri Madhvacharya lived for 79 years and left this world on the 9th day of bright fortnight (Navami thithi) in the lunar month Magha Masam that falls two days after the Ratha Sapthami festival.

A child prodigy, with divine qualities, Sri Madhvacharya was well known for his authority, knowledge and extempore oratory skills, on the subject. During his period he had defeated many of his opponents with his authenticated arguments. Robust in physique and health Sri Madhvacharya was a multifaceted personality also known for his mystic powers. At the age of twelve Sri Madhvacharya left his home to become an ascetic and took up the Sanyasa Deeksha under the guidance of Sri Achyuta Preksha Theertha his Sanyasa Guru. He was named as Poornapragna after attaining Sanyasa Deeksha. Very soon he became the head of the Mutt and came to be known as Ananda Theertha and later as Madhvacharya by which name he became very popular.

During his life Sri Madhvacharya wrote explanatory notes (commentaries) on Upanishads, Bhagavat Geeta, Brahma Sutras, Mahabharata and Bhagavatha Purana besides scripting several other original works on his doctrines. SuMadhva Vijaya a biography of Sri Ananda Theertha written by Sri Narayana Panditacharya son of Sri Trivikrama Panditacharya eulogized the glory of Sri Madhvacharya and his accomplishments which is said to have been composed during Sri Madhvacharya’s life time itself. Sri Vayu Sthuthi composed by Sri Trivikrama Panditacharya is a very popular script on Lord Hanuman whose lineage is Sri Madhvacharya.

Sri Madhvacharya was instrumental in establishing the famous temple of Lord Sri Krishna at Udupi and installed the idol of Sri Bala Krishna that was said to have been worshipped by Rukmini Devi the prime consort of Lord Sri Krishna during Dwapara Yuga. At the time of installation Sri Madhvacharya spontaneously composed a prayer in glory of Lord Sri Krishna that became popular as Dwaadasanama Sthothram. Procuring of the idol was a miracle and forethought of Sri Madhvacharya. Not only he installed the idol of Lord Sri Krishna but also appointed eight of his prime disciples to take forward his legacies and to have continuity to the worship of the Lord by rotation. Even today this practice of rotation of worshiping and administering the Sri Krishna Mutt at Udupi known as Paryaya is in vogue that takes place once in two years.

These eight prime disciples appointed by Sri Madhvacharya were, Sri Hrishikesha Theertha, Sri Narasimha Theertha, Sri Janardhana Theertha, Sri Upendra Theertha, Sri Vamana Theertha, Sri Vishnu Theertha, Sri Rama Theertha and Sri Adhokshaja Theertha. These eight Pontiffs later established their own mutts called as Ashta Matas of Udupi. These eight mutts are named after the surrounding villages where they originally resided. These Mutts are Palimar Mutt, Adamaru Mutt, Krishnapura Mutt, Puttige Mutt, Shirur Mutt, Sode Mutt, Kaniyoor Mutt, and Pejavara Mutt. Apart from the above Sri Padmanabha Theertha and Sri Narahari Theertha were also his prime disciples.

In the post era of Sri Madhvacharya several great, noble and divine Saints have descended and established several mutts across the country propagating the Tattvavada, the doctrine of Sri Madhvacharya. To name a few are Sri Madhava Theertharu, Sri Akshobhya Theertharu, Sri Jaya Theertharu (Teeka Rayaru), Sri SriPaada Rayaru, Sri Vyasa Rayaru, Sri Vadi Raja Theertharu, Sri Raghottama Theertharu, Sri Raghavendra Theertharu (Mantralaya Guru Sarvabhouma). Madhva Mutts established by these saints are Sri Raghavendra Swamy Mutt at Mantralayam, Sri Uttaradhi Mutt and Sri Vyasaraya Mutt, to name a few.

Though Aacharya Sri Madhwa is to be revered and worshipped everyday, two specific days are earmarked in Hindu Lunar calendar for his specific worship. They are, Sri Madhwa Jayanthi falling on Vijayadasami day in the month of Aaswayuja Masam that is said to be the day on which he was born. The other is Sri Madhva Navami falling on the 9th day of Lunar month of Magha Masam during the bright fortnight. It is said that it was on this day in the year 1317 AD, Sri Madhvacharya while teaching his disciples at Udupi Sri Anantheshwara Temple, suddenly a heap of flowers were showered on him and he disappeared from that heap of flowers not to be seen later. It is considered as the day he entered the Badarikasrama. It is strongly believed among his followers that Sri Madhvacharya is still present even today in Northern Himalayas (Greater Badari) continuing his spiritual pursuit with Sage Sri Vedavyasa but beyond ordinary vision.

Special celebrations are held across the country on the eve of Sri Madhva Navami at all the Madhva related temples and mutts participated by large gathering of Madhva followers.

To learn, to understand and to write about Sri Madhvacharya, perhaps one life time is not adequate.

Brahmaantha Guravah Saakkshaatt Ishtam Daivam Sriyah pathihi
Aachaaryaa SriMadaachaaryaa Santhume Janma Janmani.

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

Bheeshmaashtami

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Bheeshmaashtami
(Bheeshma Niryana)

Saturday
23rd January 2010

Bheeshmaastami is associated with Bheeshma Pitamaha, the most revered and grandiose character of the great Epic, Mahabharata. It was on this day Bheeshma had his last breath and this day is commemorated as the day of his Niryana. Bheeshmaastami occurs on the 8th day (Ashtami) of the bright fortnight (Sukla Paksha) in Magha Masam as per Hindu Lunar Calendar that usually falls during the months of January – February the day after Ratha Sapthami.

Generally it is impossible for human beings to know the exact time of birth and death. But in Bheeshma’s case he could set his time for his soul to depart. How could this happen? Who is this Bheeshma in his previous birth? What was his lineage? Why should we pay our obeisance and salutations to him on this day? To find an answer for all these queries we should know his background at least in brief.

Bheeshma originally named as Devavratha was one of the Ashta Vasus (Demi Gods) called by name Prabhas or Dyau as per some texts, who took birth on this Earth due to a curse by the Sage Vasista. He was born as the eighth son of the Kuru King Shantanu (s/o of Pratipa) of Lunar Dynasty and Ganga Devi (Holy River Goddess Ganga). He was later, popularly came to be known as Bheeshma when he made a ferocious pledge (Bheeshma Pratigna) to be a bachelor for life to facilitate his father Shantanu to marry Sathyavathi. He was also known by the other names such as Ganga Putra, Gaangeya, and Bheeshmaachaarya.

Why Bheeshma chose this day for his Niryana?

When Bheeshma made a solemn pledge and stood by that, his father Shantanu was very much pleased and in gratitude of his son’s sacrifice he gave him a boon that he (Bheeshma) would die when he wished known as Swachchanda Maranam.

Though Bheeshma fell in the war on the 10th day after the Great Kurukshetra war had started, he eagerly and patiently waited for 48 days on the bed of arrows before departing from this world. He waited for the onset of Uttarayana the most auspicious period for a soul to depart. Even after the onset of Uttarayana he waited for the day of Ratha Sapthami the day on which Sun’s movement takes a definite effect northwards and the next day Bheeshma invoked his father’s boon of Swachchanda Maranam and died. Thus Bheeshma is said to have died in the constellation of Rohini Star, on the 58th day after the commencement of the Kurukshetra war that happened to be Ashtami thithi.

Why should we pay obeisance & salutations to Bheeshma?

A noble Soul, a great learned person, Bheeshma was respected for his honesty, sincerity and strong determination. He was a great warrior, an adventurous hero and on his day it was difficult for anyone to defeat him. For the sake of his father he sacrificed his marriageable life by taking an oath of celibacy and remained childless. Due to his commitment to the Kuru dynasty he had to be on the side of Duryodhana and became a silent spectator during the ugly scenes that happened in the episode of Pandavas.

Basically a Demi God (one of the Ashta Vasus), Bheeshmaachaarya was an ardent devotee of Lord Sri Krishna an avathara of Lord Sri Maha Vishnu. The famous Sri Vishnu Sahasra Nama Sthothram in praise of Lord Vishnu was made known, not only to Pandavas but to the entire world by Bheeshma in the presence of Lord Sri Krishna during his avasaana dasa. But for Bheeshma, we would have missed the most sacred Sthothra of Lord Sri Maha Vishnu. Perhaps for this great deed alone, Bheeshma deserves to be remembered on this scared day of his Niryana and it is befitting to offer our obeisance and salutations to this noble Soul. Though his end was very painful having fallen on the bed of arrows for 48 days, Bheeshma had a very noble and sacred death in the presence of none other than Lord Sri Krishna Himself. What else! One needs, at the time of death other than this to attain salvation!

Bheeshma Ekadasi and Bheeshma Niryana

Ekadasi thithi succeeding Bheeshma Niryana is named after Bheeshmaachaarya as a mark of respect to the noble soul, and is called as Bheeshma Ekadasi. Some section of the society treats this day as the day of Bheeshma Niryana. But actually Bheeshma niryana did not take place on this day of Ekadasi. It was on the day of Ashtami thithi the day succeeding Ratha Sapthami that Bheeshma Niryana took place. Hence, Bheeshma Ekadasi and Bheeshma Niryana seem to have no relevance.

What is to be done on this day?

Apart from giving Tharpana and Arghya to Bheeshma one can also recite Sri Vishnu Sahasra Nama Sthothram in honour of its composer. Some people resort to fasting on this day in respect of the great hero of Mahabharata.

Bheeshma Tharpana

Vyyaaggrapaadagothraaya Saankruthya Pravaraayacha
Ganga Putraaya Bheeshmaaya Aajanma Brahmachaarine

Aputraaya Jalam Daddyaam Namo Bheeshmaaya Varmane
Bheeshmah Saanthanavoh Veerah Sathyavaadi Jitendriyah
Aabhiradbhiravaapnothu Putra Pouthrochithaam Kriyaam

Thila tharpana should be given with black thil seeds by reciting the above manthra with Yagnopaveetham in apasavya position by those who have lost their father. Where, father is alive it should be performed in Savya position with rice. This is stated as Nitya Karma to be performed by all.

Bheeshma Arghya

After performing Aachamanam Arghya should be given with the following manthra

Vasunaamavatharaya Santhanoraathmajaayacha
Arghyam dadami Bheeshmaaya Aabalabrahmachaarine

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

Ps

Tharpana/Arghya Manthras -courtesy Dharma Shastra Darpana of Mantralaya Sri Raghavendra Swamy Mutt & Sri Uttaradhi Mutt calendar.

Salutations to the Sun God (Prayers)

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Salutations to the Sun God

Japaakusuma Sankaasham
Kaashyapeyam Mahaadhyuthim
Tamoarim Sarvapaapaghnam
Pranathoasmi Diwaakaram

Sri Suryaashtakam

Samba Uvacha!

Aadideva namasthubhyam Praseeda mama Bhaskara
Diwakara namasthubhyam Prabhakara namosthuthe

Sapthaashvaratha maroodam prachandam kasyapathmajam
Swethapadmadharam devam tam suryam pranamamyaham

Lohitam ratha maroodam sarva loka pitaamaham
Mahapapaharam devam tam suryam pranamamyaham

Traigunyam cha mahashooram brahmavishnumaheshvaram
Mahapapaharam devam tam suryam pranamamyaham

Bhrumhitham tejasaam punjam vayuraakashameva cha
Prabhusthvam sarvalokaanaam tam suryam pranamamyaham

Bandhooka pushpasankaasham harakundala bhooshitam
Ekachakradharam devam tam suryam pranamamyaham

Vishvesham vishvakartharam mahatejah pradeepanam
Mahapapaharam devam tam suryam pranamamyaham

Sree vishnum jagataam nadham gyana-vigyana-mokshadham
Mahapapaharam devam tam suryam pranamamyaham

Suryaastakam patennityam grahapeeda pranashanam
Aputro labhathe putram daridro dhanavaan bhavet

Aamisham madhupanam cha yah karothi raverdine
Saptajanma bhavedrogi janmajanma daridrataa

Sthree thaila madhu mansaani ye tyajanthi raverdine
Na vyaadhi shoka daaridryam suryalokam cha gachhati

(Samba Purana)

This Suryaastakam recited by Samba (son of Lord Sri Krishna and Jambavathi) forms a part of the Samba Purana an Upa Purana dedicated to Sun God. By reciting this hymn with devotion, one is blessed with relief from Navagraha Peeda. Those without progeny obtain their desire and poor obtain riches. One who indulges in sensual pleasures on Sundays will be diseased for seven lifetimes and also remains devoid of prosperity. One who worships Lord Surya Narayana and recites this hymn after giving up oil, sensual pleasures, meat and liquor on Sundays, is blessed with health and wealth.

Surya Gayathri

Bhaaskaraaya Vidmahe
Mahaadyutikaraaya Dheemahi
Thannoh Aaditya Prachodayaat

Aadityaaya Vidmahe
Sahasra Kiranaaya Dheemahi
Thannoh Surya Prachodayaat

Graharaajaaya Vidmahe
Sarvasaakshine Dheemahi
Thannoh Surya Prachodayaat

Ratha Sapthami Slokas

While taking bath with Arka leaves

! Yadhyajanma kritham papam maya sapthasu janmasu!
Thanme rogancha sokancha makari hanthu sapthami!!

! Yetatjanmakritham papam yachha janmanthararjitham
Mano vakkayajam yachha gnathagnathancha yathpunaha!!

! Ithi sapthavidham papam snaname saptha sapthake
! Sapthavyadhi samayuktham hara makari sapthami!!

While giving Arghyam to Sun God

! Saptha sapthi vaha preetha sapthaloka pradeepana
Sapthami sahito deva gruhanargyam Diwakara!!

For more details on Ratha Sapthami, its traditions, significance of Arka Leaf on Ratha Sapthami, you may like to read a related article with the following link…

bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2009/01/ratha-sapthami.html

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

Ratha Sapthami (Surya Jayanthi)

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

(Arasavalli Sri Surya Narayana Swamy)

RATHA SAPTHAMI
(Surya Jayanthi)

Friday - 22nd January,2010

Sun worship known as Suryopaasana is as ancient as Hinduism with its origin dating from Vedic times. Even today, Sun worship forms a part of the Nitya Karma that is Sandhya Vandana and Gayathri Mantra recited during this ritual, is the most sacred invocation to Sun God. He is the presiding Deity of Gayathri Manthra. Sun worship is prevalent in Hindu philosophy since time immemorial along with the worship of Vishnu, Shiva, Ganapathi and Shakthi.

Lord Sri Rama an incarnation of Lord Vishnu was born in Surya Vamsam in Ikshvaku dynasty whose family deity was the Sun God. We find Lord Sri Rama worshipping Sun God before going to kill Ravanasura. Karna of Mahabharatha fame was the son of Lord Surya born to Kunthi Devi by virtue of a boon given by Sage Durvasa. Lord Sri Krishna’s son Samba (son of Jambavathi) got rid of his Leprosy by worshipping Sun God. Thus there are many such pouranic references to Sun worship.

Sun God is depicted as riding over a chariot driven by seven horses and drawn by Anoora (brother of Garuda) the charioteer who has no feet. Sun is considered as the visible God, the Pratyaksha Devatha and is also known as Karma Saakshi. Surya Namaskara a special physical exercise is dedicated to the worship of Sun God which is practiced by the devotees early in the morning before Sunrise. Sun rays have the healing power and Sun is considered as the health giver, Arogyam Bhaskaraddhicheth.

Sun - Astrological significance

Astrologically Sun is given a prominent place in the worship of Navagrahas. He is known as the King among the Navagrahas. Generally we find in Navagraha temple the idol of Sun is installed in the centre in an elevated position with all the other planets around it. His Gothra is Kashyapa Gothra. Sanjna Devi and Chaaya Devi are his wives. Yama, Yamuna and Saturn (Shani) are his children. His Adhi Devata is Agni (Fire God), and Pratyadhi Devatha is Rudra. Sun is the Paramatma Amsa in Sri Ramaavathara. Sun as Surya Narayana is Sattvik in nature.

While Jupiter, Mars, and Moon are his friends, Saturn and Venus are his enemies. Mercury is considered as equal. Rahu and Kethu are considered to cause the eclipse of the Sun known as Surya Grahana (Solar Eclipse) though scientific reasons are different. It takes 30 days for the Sun to move from one sign to another sign in the zodiac. His transit from one sign to another sign is known as Sankramana. Sun’s transit into Karkataka raasi marks the beginning of Dakshinayana and Makara raasi marks the beginning of Uttarayana.

Zodiac sign Leo (Simha Raasi) is his own sign and also Moola Trikona. While Aries (Mesha) is his sign of exaltation, Libra (Thula) is his sign of debilitation. Sun placed in the 10th house is said to gain directional strength. Astrologically Sun is a Yogakaraka for Aries, Scorpio, and Sagittarius signs. Krittika, Uttara and Uttarashada are the stars ruled by the Sun. Sun’s period in the Vimshottari will be for six years and those born under the above constellations, their Vimshottari starts with that of Sun’s period.

Sun’s favourite day is Sunday known as Ravi Vara or Bhanu Vara or Aaditya Vara and his favourite thithi is Sapthami. Food grain related to Sun is Wheat and the related plant is Arka known as Calotropis. Ruby is the Gem related to Sun. Sun represents the soul (Atmakaraka), and Father (Pitru Karaka). Sun indicates ego, honour, status, fame, general vitality, head, eyes, heart, respect, power, morality, confidence, will power, leadership to name a few. Sun worship is prescribed for the physical, mental and spiritual well being of an individual.

Ratha sapthami also known as Magha Sapthami or Maha Sapthami is a very popular Hindu festival dedicated to Sun God, Sri Surya Narayana. It occurs on the seventh day (Sapthami) of Magha Masam during sukla paksha (bright fortnight) that generally happens during the months of January-February. It is celebrated as Surya Jayanthi the day on which he was born to Sage Kashyapa and Aditi considered as an incarnation of Lord Sri ManNarayana.

Special celebrations are held at all Vaishnavite temples especially at Tirumala and Srirangam apart from Arasavelli and Konark. At Tirumala Hills special celebrations are held on this occasion (one day Brahmotsavam) where Lord Sri Venkateswara along with his consorts is taken out in procession on seven Vahanas (vehicles) starting from dawn to dusk.

There are number of Sun temples in India out of which the most popular are the following:

• Sun temple at Konark (Orissa)
• Surya Narayana Swami temple at Arasavalli (Srikakulam) A.P
• Suryanaar Koil near Kumbhakonam (Tamil Nadu)
• Dakshinaarka temple at Gaya (Bihar)
• Sun temple at Modhera (Gujarat)
• Surya Pahar temple in Assam

There is also a Sun temple in the temple complex of Goddess Padmavathi at Tiruchanoor near Tirupathi.

For more details on Ratha Sapthami, its traditions, significance of Arka Leaf on Ratha Sapthami, you may like to read a related article with the following link…

bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2009/01/ratha-sapthami.html

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

Basar - A Rare Temple of Goddess Saraswathi

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

BASAR
A RARE TEMPLE OF
GODDESS SARASWATHI

In our country we find very few temples of Goddess Saraswathi. Out of two such famous temples dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi one which can be easily accessed is in Adilabad district of Andhra Pradesh in a prominent place called Basar. Situated on the Banks of holy river Godavari, the Goddess at Basar is known as Gnana Saraswathi the one who bestows knowledge. It is the only temple in the entire South India that is dedicated to the Goddess of Learning Sri Saraswathi.

Legend behind the Temple

As per the popular legend it is said that Sage Veda Vyasa of Mahabharata fame after the Kurukshetra war went on a pilgrimage in search of peace. During the course of his pilgrimage he reached this place at Basar situated on the banks of holy river Godavari in Dandakaranya. He found this place to be very peaceful and serene for his penance and started meditating. It is believed that the Divine Mother appeared before him and ordained him to install the Shakthi trio (Maha Saraswathi, Maha Lakshmi and Maha Kali) at this place. Accordingly the Sage Veda Vyasa did so by bringing three handful of sand from the river bed and started worshiping the Divine Mother. Miraculously these sand heaps got transformed into Shakthi Trio forming three idols of Goddess Lakshmi, Saraswathi and Kali. Due to the involvement of Sage Vedavyasa who stayed at this place, thenceforth it came to be known initially as Vyasapuri which in course of time became Vasara and ultimately as Basara or Basar.

Though it is a Kshetra of Shakthi trio it became popular as a Saraswathi Kshetra dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi known here as Gnana Saraswathi. Here, Goddess Saraswathi the presiding deity is depicted in a seated position holding Veena, her instrument in two hands and with the sand idol bedecked with turmeric. Adjacent we find the shrine of Maha Lakshmi and Maha Kali at a little distance.

Temple Timings

The temple remains open from morning 4.00 am to night 8.30 pm. In between it is closed during afternoon from 12.30 pm to 2.00 pm.

Aksharabhyasam at Basar Temple

The temple of Gnana Saraswathi at Basar is famous for a ritual known as Aksharabhyasam, formal induction of a child into education. Many people bring their children to this temple especially on Vasantha Panchami day and induct them into Aksharabhyasa with the strong belief that they would prosper well in their education and learning.

Festivals at Basar

Special celebrations are held at this Saraswathi temple on the occasion of Vasantha Panchami, Shivarathri that falls during the months of January-February and on the occasion of Devi Navarathri festival known as Dussera during September-October. Thousands of pilgrims take bath in the holy river Godavari and seek the blessings of Gnana Saraswathi during these occasions.

How to Reach Basar?

Though it is in Adilabad District, it is nearer to Nizamabad town in the Northern Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh. The place Basar is well connected by rail and road. By Road Nizamabad is connected to NH-7. APSRTC runs number of buses to Basar connecting major towns and cities of Andhra Pradesh. By road it is 210 km from Hyderabad, 55 km from Nizamabad and 70 km from Nirmal. Basar is also on the rail map of India situated on the Hyderabad – Manmad section of South Central Railway at a distance of about 30 km from Nizamabad. Nanded in Maharastra is 80 km from Basar. All trains passing in this route stop at Basar station. Nearest airport is Hyderabad an international airport about 210 km from Basar.

Stay and Accommodation

For a days visit there may be no need for a stay and accommodation. One can return by night to the nearest town of Nizamabad or Hyderabad city. For those who would like to stay overnight there are number of Hotels and Guest houses including that of TTD’s, providing accommodation to pilgrims at reasonable cost.

For more details

Executive Officer,
Sri Gnana Saraswathi Devasthanam,
Basara - Village: Mudhole Mandal,
Adilabad (Dt.), Pin - 504101,
Andhra Pradesh, India

Tele: (91) 08752-243503
Executive Officer: (91) 08752-243550

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

Sri Panchami (Vasantha Panchami)

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

SRI PANCHAMI
(Vasantha Panchami)

Sri Panchami is a Hindu festival dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi. It is celebrated on the fifth day (Panchami) of Sukla Paksha in the Lunar Month of Magha Masam that generally occurs during the months of January-February. In our Hindu religion and culture, child going to a school generally begins with a ritual called Aksharabhyasa (learning of alphabets), the foundation for education. Akshara means the one that will not perish. Abhyasa means practice. Anything that we acquire in this life may perish but, the knowledge acquired through Akshara Gnana will never perish and will be an eternal asset. Goddess Saraswathi, the presiding deity of such Akshara Gyana, the female Divine energy of Learning, Knowledge and Wisdom is said to have born on this auspicious day known as Sri Panchami. Inducting a child into Aksharabhyasa on this day is said to be highly auspicious for good progression in education.

Reference to Goddess Saraswathi, the divine consort of Lord Brahma one of the Trinity Lords we find in many Pouranic scripts like Padma Purana, Brahma Vaivartha Purana etc... It is said that many pouranic great Sages like Sri Veda Vyasa, Brihaspathi, Yajnavalkya, Vasista, Parasara, and Bharadwaja had worshipped Goddess Saraswathi in their spiritual pursuits. Saraswathi worship is essential for spiritual enlightenment. In the life history of Mantralaya Seer Sri Raghavendra Swamy, we find Goddess Saraswathi referred to as the Goddess responsible for giving direction for his Sanyasa Sweekara.

She is referred to as Vaakk Devi, the Goddess of Speech. For any student, poet, writer, analyst, journalist, astrologer, musician, singer, preacher, philosopher, etc… to become proficient and to excel in their field, Divine blessings and Grace of Vaakk Devi is very much essential. She is also known by other names like Vaani, Sarada, Bharathi, and Braahmi to name a few. A river by her name is also very famous, holy and spiritual in Hindu religion and philosophy that forms a part of the famous river trio Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswathi popularly known as Triveni.

Seated on a fully blossomed white Lotus, Goddess Saraswathi is generally depicted as Chaturbhuja (four hands) with Veena as her instrument which she will be holding in her two hands while in other two hands holding Vedas (Sacred scriptures) and a mala of Divine Rosary beads. White coloured Hamsa (Swan) is depicted as her vehicle (chariot) that symbolizes sattvik nature, purity, high intellectual capability and discrimination.

This day is also known as Vasantha Panchami that marks the beginning of a new season called Vasantha Ruthu the onset of Spring Season. Lord Sri Krishna mentioned in his Bhagavat Geeta that He is the Vasantha Ruthu among the seasons. Though this festival Sri Panchami is not very popular in South India, it is a very important festival that is widely celebrated with great fervor in the North, West Bengal and Maharastra. In North Eastern States of our country it is celebrated as the beginning of a New Year.

While Goddess Saraswathi worship is done round the year, certain special occasions are prescribed for an exclusive worship. One such occasion is on this auspicious day of Vasantha Panchami (Sri Panchami) and the other is during the Navarathri (Dussera) festival in the Lunar month of Aaswayuja on the 7th day (Sapthami) coinciding with Moola constellation. It is highly meritorious to worship Goddess Saraswathi on these days and to seek Her Grace to become learned, knowledgeable and wise.

In our country we find very few temples of Goddess Saraswathi. Out of two such famous temples dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi we find, one is in Kashmir. Ashtaadasa Shakthi Peeta Sthothram refers to this temple as Kaashmirethu Saraswathi, one of the 18 most revered places for worship of Goddess Shakthi. The other famous temple of Goddess Saraswathi is in Adilabad district of Andhra Pradesh in a place called Basar where, special celebrations and prayers are held on this day. We also find on this day of Sri Panchami many people inducting their children into Aksharabhyasa at this famous temple known as Gnana Saraswathi temple. We also find a temple of Goddess Saraswathi known as Sharada Devi at Sringeri in Karnataka state where the idol is said to have been consecrated by Adi Sankaracharya.

Let us pray and worship on this auspicious day Goddess Saraswathi who is respected and adored even by Devathas, to get rid of our sluggishness, lethargy and ignorance.

SARASWATHI DHYANA SLOKAS

Yaa Kundendu tushaarahaara dhavalaa,
Yaa shubhra vastraanvithaa
Yaa Veena vara danda manditakara,
Yaa swetha padmaasanaa,
Yaa brahmaachyutha shankara prabhutibhi
Devai sadaa poojitaa
Saa Maam Paatu Saraswatee Bhagavatee
Nissesha jaadyaapahaa

Saraswathi Namasthubhyam Varadey Kaamaroopinee
Vidyaarambham Karishyami Siddhir Bhavathu mey Sadaa
Padmapatra Visaalaakshi Padma Kesara Varnini
Thwam VidyaalayaaDevi Saamam Paathu Saraswathee

Medhaam Vidyaam Bala Pragnaam Sampadam Putra Poutrakaam
Dehimey Saaradey Devee Smaraami Mukha Samsthithaam

Namasthe Saarada Devi Kashmeera Puravaasini
Twamaham Prarthaye Nithyam Vidyaa Daanancha Dehimeh

Yaa Devi Sarva Bhooteshu Buddhi Roopena Samsthitha
Namasthasthai Namasthasthai Namasthasthai Namo Namaha

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

PS

Vasantha Panchami (Sri Panchami) is being celebrated this year on Wednesday, the 20th January, 2010

Solar Eclipse - January, 2010

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!

Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!

Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!

Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

SOLAR ECLIPSE – January, 2010
(Surya Grahana)

Sparsha Kala (Beginning phase) – 11.17 hrs
Madhya Kala (Maximum phase) –13.15 hrs
Moksha Kala (Ending phase) – 15.11 hrs

An Annular Solar Eclipse is going to take place on 15th January, 2010 which will be visible all over India and in some other countries like Central Africa, Sri Lanka and South East Asia. With this, the Indian sub continent will have witnessed two Eclipses within a span of fortnight, one (Lunar Eclipse) that occurred on the threshold of the New Year and the other, the current one. This is going to be the third Solar Eclipse within a span of one year.

Astronomers believe that, this is a rare type of Annual Solar Eclipse that is considered to be the longest of the third millennium. Next such Annular Solar Eclipse is likely to be witnessed only in the year 3043 after more than 1000 years. The rarity of this eclipse is that, the duration of its totality is going to be around 11 minutes and 08 seconds which is considered to be near its maximum and the duration of the Eclipse journey is nearly four hours. It is said that, this type of Eclipse had earlier occurred in the year 1992.

A Solar Eclipse takes place only on a New Moon day (Amavasya) and every new Moon day (Amavasya) will not lead to a Solar Eclipse. It is only when the Moon’s shadow covers the Earth thus obstructing Sun light (Sun’s visibility) partially or fully it results in Solar Eclipse. Generally we find such instances only twice in a year. When the Sun and the Moon are exactly in line but the size of the Moon will be apparently smaller than that of the Sun, it is referred to as Annular Solar Eclipse.

While in India Eclipse will be visible from several places, the totality of the Eclipse will be visible in Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Gujarat States. Some of the places suggested for a better view of the Eclipse are, Rameswaram, Kanyakumari, Tiruchendur, Tuticorin, Nagerkoil, Madurai, Tanjore, Pondicherry, Kumbhakonam, Surat, Ahmadabad, and Kutch & Bhuj area.

Schedule of Current Solar Eclipse

• Date of Eclipse: 15th January, 2010 – Friday - Pushya Bahula Amavasya
• Type of Eclipse: Partial Solar Eclipse (Annular)
• Visibility: Visible across the country
• Eclipse Time: From 11.05 am to 03.29 pm IST
• Duration of eclipse as visible in India: 04.24 hrs (approx)
• Vedha (inauspicious period): From 11.17 pm on 14.01.2010 (Thursday) to 15.11 hrs on 15.01.2010 (Friday)
• Parva Kala: 03.54 hrs

Food restriction for those who can afford starts 12 hours before the beginning of Eclipse (from 23.17 hrs of 14.01.2010 till the ending time of the Eclipse on 15th January, 2010). Pregnant women, children, old people, medically unfit have exemptions in timings of food restriction. As far as possible avoid taking food during eclipse time.

Astrological details of Eclipse

Eclipse is occurring on the threshold of onset of Uttarayana in the Lunar month of Pushya Masam on the new Moon day (Amavasya). It is known as Rahu Grastha, Khandagrasa (partial) Surya Grahana (Moon's Ascending node Rahu involved)

• Eclipse Constellation: Uttarashada (Star Lord - Sun)
• Zodiac sign: Makara Raasi (Capricorn) – Sign Lord - Saturn
• Stars in Makara Raasi: Uttarashada (2,3 & 4) Sravana, Dhanista(1&2)
• Planets in the Eclipse sign: Sun, Moon and Venus

Implications:

The planets involved in the Eclipse sign of Makara Raasi viz… Sun, Moon, Venus and Rahu will be in the constellation of Uttarashada whose star Lord Sun is inimical to the sign Lord Saturn. The eclipse sign and the planets involved will be aspected by retrograde Mars, currently under extended stay in Karkataka (Cancer) Raasi, his sign of debilitation and 7th house from Eclipse sign.

Based on the planetary positioning at the time of Eclipse, adverse effect is indicated more to the natives of Uttarashada constellation and Makara Raasi (Capricorn).

Effect of Solar Eclipse on the zodiac signs:

• Mesha, Simha, Vrischika, Meena (Aries, Leo, Scorpio, Pisces) - Good results are indicated
• Vrushabha, Karkataka, Kanya, Dhanus (Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Sagittarius) – Mixed results are indicated
• Makara, Thula, Mithuna, Kumbha (Capricorn, Libra, Gemini, Aquarius) – Negative results are indicated

Suggested Remedies:

Those belonging to Makara Raasi and Uttarashada star in particular should donate to a Brahmin during or after the eclipse (before Sunset) on that day one Copper plate (filled with ghee) + Surya Bimba & Naga Bimba (silver) after prayer along with Wheat, Black Thil Seeds, Black Urad, Rice, and Black eyed peas (1¼ kg each quantity).

Performing Rudrabhishekam to Lord Shiva before and after the Eclipse will be beneficial. Others (Mithuna, Thula and Kumbha) should donate Wheat, Black Thil Seeds, Black Urad, Rice, and Black eyed peas as said above.

Those belonging to Uttarashada and Makara Raasi should avoid looking at or getting exposed to the Eclipse. Others please don’t watch the Eclipse with naked eyes.

Prayers during Eclipse time: Specific prayers to Lord Sri Rama, Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva, Goddess Gayathri, Goddess Durga, Sun God, and Saturn are required.

Suggested prayers

Some of the useful prayers suggested during Eclipse time are, Sri Vishnu Sahasra Nama Sthothram, Sri Nrusimha Kavacham, Runa Vimochana Sri Nrusimha Sthothram, Sri Venkatesa Vajra Kavacha Sthothram, Sri Rama Raksha Sthothram, Aaditya Hridayam, Durga Kavacham, Gayathri Parayana, Sri Vayu Sthuthi, Hanuman Chaleesa and Sri Raghavendra Sthothram.

One can choose any one of the above or any other useful Divine prayer based on their individual faith and belief while the list is only indicative but not exhaustive. Those who cannot recite them can at least resort to chanting of Narayana Astakshari or Shiva Panchakshari or Sri Rama Nama or Sri Raghavendra Astakshari during the Eclipse time.

What is to be done during Eclipse time?

Any Eclipse time is said to be very sacred and celestial and entire period of Eclipse is called as Parva Kala (most sacred time). Any sacred rituals or rites performed during a parva kala will derive more merits than those performed during ordinary times. Hence, please don’t waste the Eclipse time with materialistic pursuits and activities. Eclipse is the most opportune time to perform Snana (sacred bath) before and after the Eclipse, Prayer, Punascharana of Upadesa Manthra, Pitru Tharpana, and Charity.

Chanting of Vedic manthras/sacred Sthothras will ward off the negative energy that gets activated during eclipse and protects from all negativity.

Sarva Pithru Tarpana should be performed with proper sankalpa during eclipse time (by those who have lost their parents) with black Thil (sesame) seeds.

For more information on the Eclipse, precautions to be taken, dos & don’ts queries answered, you may like to read the related articles at ………

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/search/label/Solar%20Eclipse

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

PS
For Eclipse timings city specific please refer to the local calendars.

Uttarayana Parva Kala (Makara Sankramana)

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

UTTARAYANA PARVA KALA
(Makara Sankramana)

Bhogi – 13.01.2010 (Wednesday)
Makara Sankranthi – 14.01.2010 (Thursday)
Uttarayana Parvakala – 14.01.2010 (Thursday)

As per the Almanac followed in South India, Uttarayana Parvakala (Makara Sankramana) transit of Sun into Makara Raasi (Capricorn) of the zodiac is taking place this year on 14th of January 2010 at 17.27 hrs (5.27 pm) and the parvakala will be up to Sunset on that day. For Sunset time please check the local calendars. It is followed by a Solar Eclipse on the next day.

Significance of Uttarayana

One year of Hindu calendar consists of two Ayanas that signifies the direction of the Sun. It is broadly divided into two periods (Ayanas) of six months each. The two broad periods are referred to as Uttarayana and Dakshinayana. All the spiritual and religious activities in Hindu philosophy take place during these two Sun centric periods. Sun is the focal point and the movement or transit of Sun around the zodiac forms the basis for deciding a particular season or a month. Starting from Makara (Capricorn) raasi to Mithuna raasi (Gemini) travel of the Sun is known as Uttarayana (Northward journey). Similarly, travel of the Sun from Karkataka (Cancer) to Dhanus (Sagittarius) is called as Dakshinayana (Southward journey).

Uttarayana is a confluence of two words, UTTARA+ AYANA. Uttara means North and Aayana mean travel. Uttarayana means travel of Sun towards North. Zodiacally when Sun enters into Makara Raasi, Uttarayana starts and this moment is called Uttarayana Punya Kala (Parvakala) which is considered as holy and celestial. As per the scripts it is said that when Sun during his transit in Makara Raasi comes opposite to Sravana star the doors of Vaikuntam gets opened (Moksha Dwara)

What is a Parvakala (Punyakala)

The Vedic meaning of Parva is said to be a Knot, a Confluence, and a Celebration. Based on the meanings, the time of confluence of two periods is called as Parvakala. This we observe during Yuga Sandhi (ending of one Yuga and beginning of another Yuga). It is said that Sri Krishna’s Avatara had taken place in the Yuga Sandhi of Dwapara and Kali Yuga. This Sandhi period is said to be very celestial, holy and sacred since the Supreme God himself was present on the Earth. This sandhi period will have features of Krita Yuga (Where Dharma will prevail on four legs). Similarly the time of confluence (Sandhi) of two seasons Dakshinayana and Uttarayana is considered to be very holy, auspicious and celestial and is called as Parva Kala.

Significance of Uttarayana Parva Kala

It is said that Uttarayana represents Devathas and Dakshinayana represents Pithrus, and the significance is to seek the blessings of both at this transit time. Uttarayana is said to be the day time for Devathas.

In this Universe it is said that Vaikuntam, the abode of Supreme Lord Sri Maha Vishnu is in the Northern direction (Uttara) and the time of movement of Sun in the direction of Vaikunta is said to be very holy, celestial and sacred. This is coinciding with the last day of the Dhanurmasam, most sacred and celestial period to worship Lord SriMann Narayana. Vaikunta Ekadasi falls in Dhanurmasam only. The gate to Vaikunta (Swarga Dwara) is believed to open on the day of Makara Sankranthi. It is believed and said that, those who die during the six months period of Uttarayana will attain salvation.

During the days of Mahabharatha, Bheeshma Pitamaha waited on his death bed for the onset of this celestial period (Uttarayana).

Sun is the most visible personification of the Lord on Earth and is called Prathyaksha Dhaivam. Purusha Sooktha says that Sun is represented as eyes of the Supreme Lord SriMann Narayana (Chaksho! Suryo Ajayatha!). Sun directs our vision towards the pure, holy, sacred, divine and to dedicate our activities for a higher cause following the northward path. During this period of Uttarayana, Sun’s power gradually increases and the day will be longer than the night.

What is to be done on this day?

Generally during any Parvakala one has to take sacred bath, perform prayer, Japa, penace, and give Charity/Dana (donation). Those who have lost their parents should also give Tharpana to their forefathers. This day one should desist from sensual pleasures, should not apply oil to the body/head, and should take only vegetarian food.

Shat thila karma: It is said that on this day one should use Thil (Sesame) seeds in six ways viz…Thila Snana, Thila Deepa, Thila Homa, Thila tarpana, Thila Dana and Thila Bhakshana.

Worshipping Lord SriMann Narayana and Lord Sun is highly meritorious during this time. Parayana of Vishnu Sahasranama sthothram, Aaditya Hridayam, Purusha Sooktham, Sri Rama Raksha Sthothram and Gayathri Japa, are useful prayers suggested at this time.

Thila Dana: Donating Thil seeds on this day with dakshina is considered as very sacred and meritorious

Vasthra Dana: As per Masa dharma being Pushya Masa donating clothes to a Brahmin is sacred and meritorious.

Kushmanda Dana: Donating of Pumpkin on this day is also meritorious.

Calendar date of Makara Sankranthi (Uttarayana)

Invariably Makara Sankranthi falls on 14th day of January in any year. Sometimes due to the following of lunar calendar (thithi bhedha), Adhika Maasa, it also occurs on 15th January. Research in Astronomy found that, 1500 years back Makara Sankranthi used to fall on 22nd December. This is said to be due to a concept called Precession or Ayanachalan that makes the seasons slide backwards with respect to the stars at the rate of one Indian star in about 950 years. Hence, the change in the calendar date and it is said that January 14th no longer represents the beginning of Uttarayana Source collection from Vigyan Prasar.

For more details in this regard please refer to www.vigyanprasar.gov.in/dream/march2006/English.pdf

In India we find two different dates being followed for the onset of Uttarayana, one on 22nd December as per the North Indian calendar and the other on 14th January as per the South Indian calendar.

Since time immemorial human kind is accustomed to co-relate cosmic events with individual life and Sun is an important cosmic body and every Sun-centric event has lot of spiritual, religious and cultural value.

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

PS

For detailed information on significance of Makara Sankranthi festival you may like to read a revised version of the article labelled - MAKARA SANKRANTHI

bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/search/label/MAKARA%20SANKRANTHI

Calendar of Important Events

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Calendar of Important Events
(January to March 2010)

Following is the list of important events, going to occur during the first quarter of the year 2010 corresponding with Pushya, Magha, Phalguna, and Chaitra Masam of Hindu Lunar Calendar.

January - 2010

13.01.2010 (Wednesday) Bhogi Festival (End of Dhanurmasam)

14.01.2010 (Thursday) Makara Sankranthi (Uttarayana Parva Kala)

15.01.2010 (Friday) Solar Eclipse (Surya Grahana)

20.01.2010 (Wednesday) Vasantha Panchami (Sri Panchami)

22.01.2010 (Friday) Ratha Sapthami

23.01.2010 (Saturday) Bheeshmaastami

24.01.2010 (Sunday) Sri Madhwa Navami

February – 2010

12.02.2010 (Friday) Maha Shivarathri

28.02.2010 (Sunday) Holi Festival (Holi Poornima)

March – 2010

12.03.2010 (Friday) Sravana Dwadasi

13.03.2010 (Saturday) Shani Trayodasi

16.03.2010 (Tuesday) Ugadi (Vikruthi Nama Samvatsara)

24.03.2010 (Wednesday) Sri Rama Navami

For more details please look forward for the coming posts

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

GREETINGS

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Season's Greetings

Yesterday is history

Tomorrow is a mystery

Today is a God’s Gift

Happy New Year

bhargavasarma

One Year as a Blogger

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

One Year as a Blogger

Initially, when I started blogging exactly one year back, I had diffidence as to how the public would receive it. But the type of response that I have received to my blog posts has really boosted my confidence and kept motivating me throughout. During this one year period I could realistically publish around 75 posts which are well received by the viewers. Some of the posts have received comments which are mostly in the form of appreciation while very few of them are remarks. While appreciations are a source of inspiration that enhance my responsibility towards the blog, remarks made are a source of learning for further improvement.

In fact, I have not done any thing unusual as some of them felt in their comments. Whatever I have written was already there. I have only tried to put them in a proper perspective for easy reach to the common man to the best of my abilities well within my limitations. My learning, knowledge and contribution are insignificant. It is only the anugraha of Lord Sri Hari bestowed through Lord Hanuman and Guru Sri Raghavendra, coupled with blessing of my ancestors that is guiding me from behind. An opportunity to serve the society in a small way, I feel I am blessed to take up this Divine task. Perhaps it is my Poorva Janma Sukrutha.

It is quite possible that during the course of my presentation of posts, certain element of coincidence with regard to the selection of words, quotations, phrases, slokas might have occurred, which is not intentional. My Blog’s main objective is to propagate the Divinity, faith in Hindu culture, heritage and philosophy, a humble service to the God through this media.

I am grateful to all viewers and followers of my blog for their kind encouragement which is a big source of motivation. I am sure they would continue to extend their patronage enabling me to add further and further unique information to my blog. I would request them to provide their valuable suggestions and constructive remarks to make the blog more useful, informative and qualitative. I will be failing in my duty if I do not mention about my appreciation and thanks to my better half, who is the proof reader of my posts, instilling courage and confidence.

It is one year since I entered into this field of blogging and it is time for me to take a review. End of the day some where in the corner of my heart I have a feeling that I could have done better. It is not an end, it is only a beginning and there is a long ……….way to go.

What I know is limited! What I have to know is unlimited!

Gnananandamayam Devam Nirmala Sphatikaakruthim!
Aadhaaram Sarva Vidyaanam Hayagreeva Upaasmahe!

Let us worship, Lord Hayagreeva (the horse faced God) – a form of Lord Sri Hari, who is an embodiment of wisdom whose appearance is akin to the texture of a spotless crystal and who is the source of all knowledge and the basis of all learning.

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

Thanking you

Truly yours

bhargavasarma

BLOG COMMENTS

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

BLOG COMMENTS

Under the captioned post I am publishing the comments and remarks received through my blog as well as my mail for the posts published during the last one year from 01.01.2009 to 31.12.2009. If you click on the date link it will connect you to the concerned post where you can also find my replies. For comments received through mail the link will not work.

Kiran said... 29 December 2009 4:11 PM
Very nice blog, happy to c Ur blog all about Hinduism and spirituality and importance of festivals. Thanks for sharing. Good luck.

Anonymous said... 28 December 2009 5:41 AM
It is a fine article. I would appreciate the author very much. Thanks Bhargavaji

Seeta Hari said... 14 December 2009 10:46 AM
Very informative post. Learning many things about our religion and culture. Thanks for your efforts and may god bless you with more energy in this noble effort.

Raghavendra said... 29 December 2009 4:14 AM
Wow! Your site is indeed fantastic. Keep up the good job Sir.

Raghavendra said... 29 December 2009 4:01 AM
Excellent post bhargavaji... and yours is the only resource on the internet that talks about chakrankitha! thanks very much for the info

A Telugu Guy... 3 December 2009
Very informative article... I liked the sentence: "Only Lord Sri ManNarayana is capable and empowered to give Moksha to anyone." Thank you so much for your very well elaboration/explanation about the divine Dwarka...

Sai said... 13 October 2009 7:47 PM
Your blog is excellent. I'll definitely make time and read your entire blog (all posts). Thank you for providing such useful information to the people.

A Telugu Guy said... 3 December 2009 9:02 PM
The article is very good and it nicely explained the most important festival of Lord Sri Venkateswara viz. Brahmotsavams. Some minor typos you may consider.

Anonymous said... 21 December 2009 10:12 AM
As an inhabitant of Tirumala I would like to tell you that "Your blog is very good". You can also include about the vasanthothsavam held before "Gaja vahanam". and Sna panathirumanjam, Chakraththalwar ooregimpu etc.

Kurri said... 8 September 2009 11:49 AM
What a wonderful article about this most important fortnight with various details which I call the real spiritual Seva. May the author will live long to serve more.Dr. Kurri Pakirareddy - United Kingdom -

Ratnaveera said... 10 September 2009 9:45 PM
Great informative blog for all the devotees of Lord Vinayaka who like to visit Ashta Vinayaka temples in Maharashtra, India.

LG said... 13 August 2009 9:02 AM
Very informative post, Thanks for posting.

Vinoth said... 20 August 2009 2:27 PM
Your blog is simple and nice. May add valuable information.

Kanumuri said... Excellent and very guiding - 14 August 2009 11:07 AM

Anonymous said... 5 August 2009 6:03 PM
Thank you very much. It is very informative.

RK said... 7 September 2009 1:09 PM
Hi… Thanks for this informative article. I really liked it.

Raghunath said... 27 June 2009 10:39 PM
YOUR TOPIC ON GLORY OF CHATURMASA IS EXCELLENT. MANY PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT CHATURMASA BUT AFTER READING THIS TOPIC WHICH IS ELABORATE IN MANY WAYS ONE WILL BE ENLIGHTENED TO FOLLOW CHATURMASA VRATHA FOR LEADING A SPIRITUAL WAY OF LIFE(the ultimate goal of a human being)AND MAINTAIN GOOD HEALTH. WISHING TO SEE MANY MORE TOPICS OF THIS TYPE

LG said... 4 August 2009 9:04 AM
Many thanks for this article. It was very helpful.

Pavan said... 5 August 2009 9:48 AM
Thank you sir! All these days I have so many doubts regarding wearing of yagnopaveetham, now, all those doubts are clarified. I am very thankful to u.

Anonymous said... 5 August 2009 6:35 PM
The content is organized in a beautiful manner. This will be of great use for many people. I really appreciate you for posting such great information.

Sai Bhagavatula said... 16 August 2009 2:33 PM
Please accept our heartful thanks for providing the information in incredible fashion. If I can, can I please suggest you to update this kind of information in Wikipedia considering that would get much more exposure. Again, thanks a lot.

Sai Krishnan said... 28 October 2009 8:04 PM
It’s indeed the best to know what we follow has a logic essence of life and power with nature. It is science, its commerce and its religion but when one gets to know its details correctly one learns to respect & adore its possession.

C Venkobachar said... - 6 May 2009 6:21 PM
An excellent article with full of information. While reading the initial portion of the article, my scientific mind was thinking prior to Nrusimhaavathara, Lord Vishnu manifested in the animal form, first as fish in Jala, second Kurma an amphibian (living in water and Land), third one Varaha dwelling only on land, and fourth one combination of human and animal, then on in the human form. Thus, revealing the concept of evaluation much before the modern science proposed the theory of Evaluation. The origin of life was from water. Sri Bhargava Sarma has brought this point very effectively in his article. I am very grateful to Sri Bhargava Sarma for educating us. May Sri Ahobila Ugra Nrusimha bestow on the author his divine grace and strength to educate people through his blog.

C Venkobachar said... 27 April 2009
An excellent article with full of information on Akshaya Thrutheeya. Yes, indeed, Dana as listed in the article will become Akshaya. On this day any good deed done becomes Akshaya and in deed we should beg Almighty Sri Hari that we should be bestowed with "Gyana, Bhakthi and Vyragya' in Akshaya quantity to us on this day. Bhargava Sarma is doing an excellent service through his blog to educate youngster and elders alike. I pray Almighty Sri Hari Vishnu through Vayu to bestow on the author of the article profound Gyana, Bhakthi and Vyragya and continue his excellent work.

Pandumuchu... said 17 September 2009 6:58 PM
That’s a good post. Thanks for the information. I have read somewhere that these 24 namas can be related to the 12 pournamis and 12 amavasyas which are 24 in a year. But I could not get the full text. Can u give some information?

Hariprasad Alur said... 30 September 2009 11:09 AM
Your article is very neatly presented with lot of inputs. God bless you and your family. Please keep up the Narayana Seva.

Badari Narayan Patel said... 13 April 2009 11:02 PM
Brindavana Pravesa of Sree Sushameendra Theerthar has given us deep sorrow and we express our devotion towards him; we are blessed Sanathana by Guru Rayaru through the holy hands of Sree Sushameendra Theertharu with the holy yanthra - Santhana Gopala Krishna and hence we named the kid - Sree Krishna Raaghavendra. SUSHAMEENDRA THEERTHA GURUBHYO NAMAHA - RAAJAADHI RAAJA GURU SAARVA BHOUMA SREE RAGHAVENDRA GURUBHYO NAMAHA

Rv_saraswathi said... 16 April 2009 8:30 AM
In his past life as Prahlada, I heard Rayaru had fought a war with Nara & Narayana (probably in swayambhu manvantara) for about 5000 celestial years. Do you have any more information on this? I think the source is Devi Bhagavatam. Secondly, when he was born as Bahlika king (fought Mahabharata war on the side of Kauravas). Any idea of what kind of karmic implications made Rayaru to side with Kauravas? Thanks in advance for clarifications...

Chiraan said... 24 April 2009 2:17 AM
A very good blog propagating bhakti.

Sandhya Kashyap said... 9 June 2009 12:31 AM
I am Devotee of Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy since 7 years. I will go to Rayar mutt every thursday and I will do fasting at the same time I use to write “Sri Raghavendrayah Namah” 108 times daily, when I completed the book after writing 1008 times I prayed god and he came in my dream and blessed me you will get a very good husband. He is Foreign Educated don’t worry about your marriage I will send you the boy to your home when the time comes. 2 years back I lost my father due to cardiac attack in the early morning, my relatives told me to get marry one day the guy came to our home along with his guruji the guy is foreign educated and Sri raghavendra swamy told the same guy I felt shock and rayaru blessed us. Sri Hanuma, bheema, madhwa antarghatha Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu.

Anonymous said... 18 April 2009 5:57 PM
The best explanation that has ever been given. Now, I say do Rama Nama Japa your mind will be under your control. All your Lustful, anger thoughts will be removed. It is TRUE I have experienced it.

Anush said... 15 August 2009 11:50 PM
What a beautiful explanation... Once, during Shri Rama, Lakshmana & Sita mata stay at the jungle, Lakshmana observed a Crow going to a river to drink water, but returned without drinking the water. Like this it kept on trying for innumerable times but never drank the water. Lakshmana could not understand why the crow was doing like this & sought an explanation from Lord Rama. Rama said "this crow is uttering the name of Rama, non-stop. He is afraid he may have to stop uttering the name if he starts drinking water. He is willing to die without water rather than stop chanting the name of Rama.....Such is the greatness of RAMA NAMA---In spite of repeating the divine name several times. one should chant the divine name wholeheartedly, with full faith in spite of doing it for hours together---One can achieve great transformation if the mind is steadily fixed on chanting Divine Name.

Raj Upadhyay said... 17 August 2009 7:43 AM
Actually some one asked me chant the name of Lord Rama. It was then, that I started to look at the significance of chanting Lord Rama's name. That’s when I was directed to your blog. I had a very vague & inadequate knowledge of Lord Rama. For me Rama was a kind of folk lore or the central character in Ramayana. I did not have much idea about the significance of Lord Rama in Hindu religion. Your in depth analysis helped me gain insight & now I have been trying to chant his name with a higher degree of devotion. My sincere thanks to you for such a wonderful post.

Anonymous said... 18 November 2009 12:06 AM
Yes, I chant Rama Nama when I feel I am on the verge of doing a mistake or can’t control myself. It helps, every time.

Rv_saraswathi said... 8 April 2009 8:14 PM
Can you kindly elaborate the significance of a sakha? Especially, when you say that the current one is Salivahana Sakha and it lasts for 18000 years, does it mean people will use referring to the calendar using his name until such period?

Ramesh Babu said... 27 March 2009 6:20 PM
First of all thanks for your valuable information about Ugadi. Truly we are not aware of this information. Good and keep us posting with new information.

A Telugu Guy said... 3 December 2009 10:07 PM
Thanks for this wonderful post....

Kurri said... 17 July 2009 1:36 PM
Sri Bhargava gariki, I have seen so many blogs including mine. But yours is unique. I contact almost daily about 200 people of Indian origin in various parts of the world and I am going to send your articles regularly to show what they are missing! With your kind permission, I will post them with your name only and the credit is only yours and I act like post man to convey this divine knowledge. If possible I would like to meet you in my remaining life on this sacred Earth.

VV said... 7 October 2009 9:45 AM
It is a yeoman service to yatris. I only wish similar info is posted by learned ones like Bhargava sharmaji in so far as jyothirlingams and Shakti peeths are concerned.

Lata Vidyaranya said... 27 January 2009 10:58 AM
Thank you for the wonderful post. I was always very curious to understand the significance of dharbha grass in our religious rituals. was satisfied to read the pouranic story and the result of the research conducted by the raman institute! the post appeals to the ordinary folk like me who look for both scientific and non-scientific explanations of various phenomena.

Sharma said...
It’s a fantastic post that I read...and I've one doubt why the temples are remain closed in grahanas... is there any logic behind that one.. 27 January 2009 9:58 PM

Aditya said... 12 March 2009 2:46 AM
Very interesting post with lots of information.
I was wondering about the following points that you have mentioned as "DONTS"Avoid eating /cooking food during eclipse, pregnant women avoid getting exposed to Eclipse, Avoid sleeping during eclipse
Have you ever come across any scientific study which supports these claims? Are you aware of any ongoing research on the same? I am really curious about this, because if this is true, and it really causes deformities in the child of the pregnant women getting exposed to the eclipse, we need to inform the rest of the world immediately and warn them of the dangers. Just think of how many deformed babies can be saved across the globe. Awaiting your response.

Nita said... 21 July 2009 4:24 PM
Trying to find information from a 'Hindu' perspective, about the solar eclipse and came across this article - a very informative read, thank you. I am very much wanting to do prayers and observances. Is the best time to do when happening in India time, if living in UK? Nita -

Latha Vidyaranya said... 27 January 2009 11:18 AM
that was loads of info on makara sankramana! thanks. keep the lovely informative posts coming.

Raghunath said... 7 January 2009 10:56 PM
Any ordinary person who does not have idea about importance of EKADASI and goes through your topic will definitely become favourite of EKADASI because he will get PUNYAM Mythologically and PURUSHARTHAM if one views health wise. Your language is very simple and one can understand easily.

RAGHUNATH said... 6 January 2009 12:23 AM
BY THIS DIVINE PRAYER YOU HAVE GIVEN A MESSAGE TO THE SOCIETY THAT WE ARE NOTHING BEFORE THE ALMIGHTY. UNLESS HIS GRACE IS THERE WE CAN NOT MOVE AN INCH. SO BEFORE STARTING ANY NEW VENTURE WE HAVE TO PRAY THE ALMIGHTY TO GIVE US STRENGTH IN PERFORMING THE TASK SUCCESSFULLY AND DEDICATE THE ENTIRE THING ONLY TO HIM AND TAKE SHELTER.

C.Venkobachar said... 8 January 2009 12:03 PM
This divine prayer will definitely guide people to do right things in their day to day life. We have to take the name of Sri Hari, the supreme being, before stating any activity. I pray Almighty to bestow upon you the Gyana, Bhakthi and Vyragya so that you can be very effective in your mission of spreading the knowledge.

Kurri said... 17 July 2009 2:01 PM
I hope and pray Sri Adi Para Shakthi who is the basis of all this wonderful creation of ours to inculcate more ideas in you to spread the knowledge to all to get the mission of this most rare human Life.

Sandhya Jagirdar said... 1 January 2009 9:11 PM
It will be very interesting to know and understand the rituals and deities that will help us to overcome the difficulties in our lives in the kali Yuga.

Ranjit said... 1 January 2009 9:27 PM
We are looking forward to the discussions and key learnings on the triumvirate areas of religion, philosophy and astrology.

Sujit said... 3 January 2009 11:08 AM
In today's turbulent times, subjects like astrology, spirituality and religion have become more relevant than ever in guiding individuals through their life's journey. I do look forward to reading more about your experiences too in these areas.

Anonymous said... 18 January 2009 2:27 AM
could you please tell me if the sloka "sri vishnum jagatham natham" is from Bhagavad gita. If it is could you please tell me which chapter it is from.

Latha Vidyaranya said... 27 January 2009 11:23 AM
I hope to benefit a lot from your posts. just found it today while browsing for info on dharbha grass. Interesting blog! Good luck.

Purvi Jayaaraaj said….. (28.12.2009)
I am a very frequent visitor of your website, I am so thrilled by seeing such a reservoir of information that I thought of thanking you. Every piece of information in there is so complete and accurate. It’s an excellent piece of work. Don’t know if you feel I am overstating, but honestly I am your fan now. Though there are so many website about Hinduism and festivals the specifics in your website is unparalleled to it, and is just that piece of info I will be looking every time. Thanks a ton Sir. I hope you feed in more and more information in the website so that people like us, who are very keen to know about our culture, festivals and practices and most of all their significance will be blessed, Thanks again.

K.Narendra Kumar said……...(10.12.2009)
I have gone through your blog and it is simply great. You have gathered extraordinary information at one place. It is very inspiring to see such a blog. Being a Brahmin I proud my self to show this blog to others when ever some one gets some doubts related to our customs and practices. If you have some more information regarding the Sandhyavandanam and its timings it will be useful for our community. Please do the needful and have a wonderful life ahead for you.

Dr. Mamidipally Rajanna said……… (05.12.2009)
I have gone through your esteemed blog it is more informative and a source of information.

UmaShanker said…….. (04.11.2009)
I live in New York. I happen to see your blog and it is wonderful.

Radhika said…….. (27.10.2009)
I have been reading and following your blog for over a fortnight now and I am writing to congratulate you for the fantastic job you are doing by detailing every aspect of most tradition/ culture and / or words we have heard since childhood. I found it very useful and easy to read at leisure to be able to understand the basics and some details which had remained as unanswered questions so far. Please keep up the good work!!! So agree with your title --what I know is limited! what I have to know is unlimited!

Praveen said…… (30.09.2009)
The posts on your blog are really good and informative. There are many areas which we want you to write on. Like Significance of Amlaki or usiri. When to use when not to use it like. The thithis on which it should be avoided. What are things that should be done during Kartika masam or the importance of Kartika Masam? Importance of Ekadasi. This is only a request.

Nalini said…… (22.09.2009)
I came across your blog in my search for the Runa Mochana mantra. The reason I am writing to you just express admiration and appreciation for sharing your knowledge. Thank you for your blog.

Suhas Karvande said……… (12.09.2009)
I HAVE JUST SURFED YOUR BLOG ... AND GOT ADMIRED THAT IN INDIA PEOPLE ARE DOING SOMTHING FOR HINDUISM... I REALLY LOVED YOUR SPRITUAL WORK. AND WILL BE READING SUCH BEAUTIFUL BLOG / SITE REGULARLY. PLEASE BE KEEPING GIVING YOUR VALUABLE, SPRITUAL SUPPORT TO US IN FUTURE.

Sridhar said……. (09.09.2009)
I've been following your blog ever since we spoke last time. Wanted to bring to your kind attention that the posting The Glory of Pitru Paksham was made to the Vishwa mAdhva Sangha mailing list today.

Sai Bhagavathula said……. (18.08.2009)
My name is Sai, am living in Singapore at the moment. I happen to see your blog accidentally when I was searching for the actual procedure of upakarma and trust me in whole Internet I haven't found any other site where the information is provided in so detail and clarity. It is very helpful mostly for people staying outside India. Please continue doing that. And we shall be indebted for that. Also if possible can I request you to open a page where people can ask you questions/ doubts. I am sure you will have lot of them coming.

Hetal Sompura said……. (09.08.2009)
I visited Ur blog and I just loved it!! Thanks for sharing such valuable information

Dr. Kurri Pakira Reddy said……. (17.07.2009)
Dear Bhargava Jee Today is the most auspicious day as you know the start of Dakshinayana on the day I came to know about you if not in person by your divine blog. What a day to know a person like you. I am most fortunate. If possible I like to meet you in person some time in the remaining life of mine on this Earth.

K.K. Reddy said …….. (26.01.2009)
This is to convey our thanks and appreciation for the timely & excellent article on the Grahanam. Hats off for your spirit of common well being of everybody.

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

Porbandar Photos

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

PORBANDAR PHOTOS

Sudhama (Kuchela) Mandir Photos

(Portrait of Sri Krishna honouring Sudhama)

(Sudhama Mandir at Porbandar)

(Lord Hanuman at Sudhama Mandir)

(Group of Pigeons at Sudhama Mandir complex)

KEERTI MANDIR PHOTOS

Birth Place of Mahatma Gandhi

(Life size portraits of Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi at the entrance)

(Place where Mahatma Gandhi was born)

(Mahatama Gandhi's ancestral house where he had spent his childhood)

(Parental house of Kasturba Gandhi where she was born)

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

PS

Photos published above were cliked at Porbandar during the recent tour on the way from Dwarka to Somnath. Porbandar is said to be the birth place of Sudhama also known as Kuchela, a contemporary fellow student and an ardent devotee of Lord Sri Krishna. Sudhama Mandir is said to be the place where he lived. There is a temple called Sudhama Mandir where he is worshipped along with his wife. Kasturba Gandhi's parental house is just behind the birth place of Mahatam Gandhi. They were neighbours during childhood.

Bhagavat Geeta Saar

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Bhagavat Geeta Saar

(The Essence of Life)

Whatever happened it happened for good.

Whatever is happening is happening for good.

Whatever is going to happen it will be for good.

What is that you have lost for which you cry?

What did you bring with you, which you have lost?

What did you produce, which has destroyed?

Whatever you have taken, you have taken from here.
Whatever was given was given from here.
Whatever is yours today was someone else’s yesterday.
It will be someone else’s tomorrow.

Change is the law of the Universe

! Vasudeva Sutham Devam Kamsa Chanoora Mardhanam
Devaki Paramanandam Krishnam Vande Jagat Gurum!!

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

Posted on the occasion of Vaikunta Ekadasi

Lunar Eclipse (Chandra Grahanam) - December'2009

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!

Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!

Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!

Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

LUNAR ECLIPSE – DECEMBER’ 2009

(Chandra Grahana)

Lunar eclipse is caused by the entering of the Moon into the earth-shadow. When the Earth moves between the Sun and the Moon, the shadow of the Earth covers the Moon producing a Lunar Eclipse. The light of the Moon is darkened temporarily. It occurs on a full moon day when the Moon is directly opposite to the Sun.

A partial Lunar Eclipse is going to take place on 31st December 2009 on the threshold of the New Year 2010. This is the last eclipse for the year 2009. It is visible all over India and in some other countries like Africa, Europe, Asia and Australia. It is a minor partial Lunar Eclipse not visible to the naked eye.

Schedule of Current Lunar Eclipse

• Date of Eclipse: Mid night of 31st December, 2009 (Thursday)
• Type of Eclipse: Partial Lunar Eclipse (Kethu Grastha Chandra Grahanam)
• Visibility: Visible across the country
• Eclipse Time: From 00.23 hrs to 01.23 hrs IST (01.01.2010 - Friday)
• Duration of the eclipse: 01.00 hr
• Vedha (inauspicious period): From 15.23 hrs (31.12.09) to 01.23 hrs (01.1.2010)
• Parva Kala: One hour (From 00.23 hrs to 01.23 hrs)

Food restriction for those who can afford starts from 15.23 hrs of 31st December’2009. Pregnant women, children, old people, medically unfit have exemptions in timings of food restriction. As far as possible avoid taking food during eclipse time.

Astrological details of the Eclipse

Eclipse is occurring in Dakshinayana in the Lunar month of Pushya Masam (Solar Month Dhanurmasam) on the Full Moon day (Pournima). It is called as Kethu Grastha Chandra Grahanam (Moon's descending node Kethu involved)

• Eclipse Constellation: Ardra (Star Lord - Rahu)
• Eclipse sign: Mithuna Raasi (Gemini) – Sign Lord - Mercury
• Stars in the Eclipse sign: Mrigasira (3 & 4), Ardra, and Punarvasu (1, 2, &3)
• Planets in the Eclipse sign: Moon and Kethu

Implications

Rahu, the star Lord of Ardra, is inimical to the Moon who is currently transiting in Dhanus Raasi diagonally opposite to and aspecting the eclipse sign. At the time of Eclipse four Planets Rahu, Sun, Venus and Mercury will be positioned in Dhanus Raasi, 7th house from the Eclipse sign and aspecting the same. Gemini sign (Mithuna Raasi) is currently undergoing Ardhaastama Sani effect, (Saturn’s 2 ½ years sojourn) with Saturn aspecting the eclipse sign. Based on the planetary positioning at the time of Eclipse adverse effect is indicated more on the natives belonging to Ardra Star and the zodiac sign Mithuna Raasi (Gemini).

Effect of Lunar Eclipse on the zodiac signs:

Simha, Kanya, Makara, Mesha (Leo, Virgo, Capricorn and Aries) - Good results are indicated

Thula, Dhanus, Kumbha, Vrushabha (Libra, Sagittarius, Aquarius and Taurus) – Mixed results are indicated

Mithuna, Karkataka, Vrischika, Meena (Gemini, Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces) - Negative results are indicated

Suggested Remedies:

Those belonging to Mithuna Raasi and Ardra star in particular should donate to a Brahmin on the next day, one Bronze/Copper plate (filled with ghee) + Chandra Bimba & Naga Bimba (silver) + 1 mtr length multi coloured cloth after prayer along with Rice, Black Urad, Horse Gram, Moong (Green) and Black Thil seeds (1¼ kg each quantity). Performing Rudrabhishekam to Lord Shiva before and after the Eclipse will be beneficial.

Others (Karkataka, Vrischika and Meena sings) should donate Rice, Black Urad, Horse Gram, Moong and Black Thil seeds as said above.

Those belonging to Ardra star and Mithuna Raasi please, avoid looking/getting exposed to the Eclipse.

Prayers during Eclipse time: Specific prayers to Lord Ganesha (For Kethu), Lord Sri Krishna and Lord Shiva (For Moon), Lord Hanuman, Moon God, Kethu, and Saturn are required.

Suggested prayers:

Some of the suggested prayers useful during Eclipse time are, Sri Vishnu Sahasra Nama Sthothram, Sri Vishnu Panjara Sthothram, Sri Nrusimha Kavacham, Sri Krishnaastakam, Sri Ganeshaastakam, Sankata Nasana Ganesha Sthothram, Vayu Sthuthi, Hanuman Chaleesa and Sri Raghavendra Sthothram.

Those who cannot recite them can at least resort to chanting of Narayana Astakshari or Shiva Panchakshari or Sri Rama Nama or Sri Raghavendra Astakshari (Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namah). One can choose any one of the above or any other useful Divine prayer based on their individual faith and belief while the list is only indicative but not exhaustive.

What is to be done during Eclipse time?

Any Eclipse time is said to be very sacred and celestial and entire period of Eclipse is called as Parva Kala (most sacred time). Any sacred rituals or rites performed during a parva kala will derive more merits than those performed during ordinary times. Hence, please don’t waste the Eclipse time with materialistic pursuits and activities. Eclipse is the most opportune time to perform Snana (sacred bath) before and after the Eclipse, Prayer, Punascharana of Upadesa Manthra, Pitru Tharpana, and Charity.

Chanting of Vedic manthras/sacred Sthothras will ward off the negative energy that gets activated during eclipse and protects from all negativity.

Sarva Pithru Tarpana should be performed with proper sankalpa during eclipse time (by those who have lost their parents) with black Thil (sesame) seeds.

After this Eclipse only Snana (bath) is required. Food should be taken on the next day after performing prayer and giving charity wherever it is applicable.

For more information on precautions to be taken, dos & don’ts, you may like to read the related articles….

bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/Solar Eclipse

bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2009/01/surya-grahana.html

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

MUKKOTI EKADASI

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!
Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!
Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!
Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Vaikunta Ekadasi

28th December, 2009 - Monday – Pushya Masam
Vaikunta Ekadasi (Mukkoti Ekadasi)
Uttara Dwara Darshanam

Normally Ekadasi is the 11th day (thithi) in the Almanac that occurs once in a fortnight of a Lunar month. While any Ekadasi day is considered to be the most sacred day in the dictionary of Lord Sri Maha Vishnu’s worship, the one that is falling in sukla paksha (waxing Moon) of the lunar month Pushya Masam coinciding with Dhanurmasam has attained special significance. It is known as Vaikunta Ekadasi. It is also the first Ekadasi before the onset of Uttarayana.

Vaikunta

Vaikunta is the name of Lord SriManNarayana. It is the place where Lord Sri Maha Vishnu resides along with his Consort Goddess Sri Maha Lakshmi resting on Aadisesha. It is known as Parama Padam, the supreme abode and the most coveted place. It is the sacred abode where every soul would be longing to go and stay eternally. The nearest reference to Vaikunta, we find in Vishnu Sahasranama sloka # 44 which reads as follows.

! Vaikuntah Purushah Praanah Praanadah Pranavah Prithuh
Hiranyagarbhah Shatrughno Vyaapto VaayurAdhokshajah!!

Meaning

Lord Maha Vishnu also known as Vaikunta is the remover of obstacles and sins and Vaikunta is the place which removes obstacles. He is the one who has united all the Pancha Bhoothas and made them to co-exist with each other. He is the Purifier and the one who gives in plenty. He is the primordial person who existed before anything else, and the one who is the cause of the origin and end of the world! He is one who outshines everyone. He burns away all the sins of his devotees.

He is life giver and is the vital air that gives or sustains life. He is the prana (life) to every one including Devathas. He is the one who makes others bow before Him and the one who deserves to be adored. He is the one who expands himself as Cosmos. He is as pure as Gold. He is the one who delights every one’s heart.

He is the slayer of enemies (Arishadvargas) of people and also destroyer of enemies of Gods. He is the one who is full of benevolence, love and affection without any discrimination. He is the one who is omnipresent and there is no single place where he does not exist. He is the one who manifests himself, never gets diminished and is the all pervasive Supreme God.

Ekadasi

As per Padma Purana, Ekadasi is depicted as the female energy of Maha Vishnu who in the form of a damsel kills the demon Mura and protects the Indradi Devathas on this day. Pleased by the act of his Female energy He names her as Ekadasi. Thus, Ekadasi thithi became the dearest to Lord Sri Maha Vishnu. He also gave her a boon that, whoever worships Ekadasi and observes fasting on this day would reach Vaikunta (His abode) and his doors will be open for such people. From time immemorial, it is the Northern Gate known as Paramapada or Vaikunta Dwara that is kept open for a single day and that day is known as Vaikunta Ekadasi Day. It is also called as Mukkoti Ekadasi.

The combination of Uttara Dwara darshanam of Lord Vaikunta plus Ekadasi thithi has attained significance as Vaikunta Ekadasi. It is said that on this day all the Brahmaadi Devathas visit Sri Vaikuntam to have Uttara Dwara darshanam of Lord SriManNarayana. It is befitting and considered to be the most auspicious day to worship Lord Sri ManNarayana along with Goddess Sri Maha Lakshmi and also to have Uttara Dwara darshana of the Lord on this day. Special celebrations are held at Tirumala, Sri Rangam, Bhadrachalam etc… where thousands of devotees visit these temples to have the Uttara Dwara darshanam of the Lord.

For more information on Vaikunta Ekadasi, significance of Mukkoti Ekadasi, Uttara Dwara Darshanam … you may like to read a related article

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/search/label/Vaikunta%20Ekadasi

Shaantaakaaram Bhujaga Shayanam Padmanaabham Suresham
Vishvaakhaaram Gagana Sadrisham Meghavarnam Shubhaangam
Lakshmeekaantam Kamalanayanam Yogibhirdhyaanagamyam
Vande Vishhnum Bhavabhayaharam Sarvalokaikanaatham

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu