Bad Effects of association with sinners

Dushta-saangatya Dosham

(Bad Effects of association with sinners)

Nov-13-2011               Sunday

On the way to the great Ujjaini city, there was a Pippala-Vruksham (Ashwattha Vruksham). On the tree, a Vaayasam (crow) and a Hamsa (Swan) lived.  One afternoon, when Surya-deva (Sun) was showing His power, came a Paantha (traveller). He was not able to tolerate the heat,and desired taking rest in the shade of the Ashwattha Vruksham. When he was taking rest, the Hamsa (Swan) saw that, through the gaps between leaves of tree, sun-light was directly falling on the face of the Paantha.                                                                                                    Hamsa (Swan), who was a Dayaalu, could not see this and spread out his wings and thus gave shade to the Paantha sleeping under the tree. Seeing the Paantha was sleeping happily, the Vaayasam (crow) got envy due to his bad nature (Dushta-svabhaavam). The Vaayasam (crow), out of Matsaram (envy), dropped his excretions on the face of the sleeping traveler and flew away.                                                                         Though it had nothing to gain by troubling the traveler, it troubled him because,  its nature of paining others; this gives pleasure. The Paantha woke up and saw the Hamsa (Swan) which was above him and thinking that it has dropped this excretion on him, shot it with an arrow. The innocent Hamsa (Swan) fell down and died.

Morals in the Story:

1.   The Daya (kindness) of Hamsa (Swan) is great. Not able to see the difficulty of the traveler, it spread its wings, took all the heat and protected the traveler. There is no greater Dharmam (virtue) than Paropakaaram (helping others in need).

2.   Even though the Hamsa (Swan) is a good-natured, just because it stayed with the Vaayasam (crow) (bad natured), it got into difficulties. One must never be in the Saagatyam (company) of bad. Durjanas (Sinners) not only destroy themselves, but also others (good natured) with them.

3.   Krodham (anger) is one’s greatest enemy. Because of his anger, the traveler, without thinking what actually happened, killed the innocent Hamsa (Swan). Coming under Krodham one can do any great paapam( sin), hence one must always refrain from anger.  .------- Compiler : Prof. Komaragiri Venkata Ramana Rao. Ph.D., (Retired Professor; Andhra University College of Engineering); Astrologer-Scienitst. Durham. NC; U.S.A.: (Tatayya = Grand-father). My e-mail address : pandit@jyothishi.com---------- I dedicate all these stories in the blog with utmost devotion to Sri Parama  Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka,  Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara !  Aum tat sath !  ==================================================

Garuda

GARUDA 

Story : 48            Nov-10-2011             Thursday     Krtheeka  Punnami

Garuda is one of the three principal animal headed-deities in the Hindu (Mythology) Puranas that has evolved after the Vedic Period in Indian history. The other two are Ganesha, the elephant-headed son of the goddess Durga, and Hanuman, the monkey god. It is after Garuda that the Indonesian National Airlines is named. Even today, Garuda is much revered by devout Hindus for his ethics and his strength in applying his ethics to correct evil-doers.  He is also adored for his devotion and service to mother.

Garuda is the king of the birds. He mocks the wind with the speed of his flight. As the appointed charger of Vishnu he is venerated by all, including humans. Garuda is the son of Kashyap, a great sage, and Vinata, a daughter of Daksha, a famous king.  He was hatched from an egg Vinata laid. He has the head, wings, talons, and beak of an eagle and the body and limbs of a man. He has a white face, red wings and golden body. When he was born he was so brilliant that he was mistaken for Agni, the god of fire, and worshipped.

Garuda was born with a great hatred for the evil and he is supposed to roam about the universe devouring the bad, though he spares Brahmins as his parents had forbidden him to eat them.   Garuda is also well-known for his aversion to snakes, a dislike he had acquired from his mother, Vinata. There is a story behind this hatred of Garuda's mother. As it is quite interesting it is told hereafter.

Kashyap, Garuda's father, is a holy sage and a pious Brahmin; he had two wives: Kadru, the elder, and Vinata, Garuda's mother, the younger.  There was great rivalry and hatred between the two wives. They could not tolerate each other.  Once, they had an argument over the color of the horse Uchchaisravas, produced during the Churning of the Ocean of Milk,  just after the time of creation. Each chose a color and laid a wager on her own choice. The one who lost would become the other's slave.  Kadru proved to be right and, as part of the agreement, she imprisoned Vinata in the nether regions, Patala, where she was guarded by venomous serpents. The serpents are the sons of Kadru herself.

Garuda, on hearing of his mother's imprisonment, descended to Patala and asked the serpents to release Vinata. They agreed to do so and demanded as ransom a cup of amrita (nectar). So Garuda set off for the celestial mountain where the amrita was kept. Before he could get to the amrita he had to overcome three hazards set up by the gods to guard the celestial drink. First, Garuda came upon a ring of flames fanned by high winds. They roared and leapt up to the sky but Garuda drank up several rivers and extinguished the flames with that water. Next, Garuda came upon a circular doorway. A very rapidly spinning wheel with very sharp spikes on the spokes guarded it. Garuda made himself very small and slipped through the turning spokes. Lastly, Garuda had to defeat two fire-spitting serpents guarding the amrita. He flapped his wings rapidly and blew dust into the eyes of the monsters and blinded them. Then he cut them to pieces with his sharp beak. So Garuda finally reached the amrita and started to fly back with it to the nether regions but the gods anticipated his purpose and gave chase. Indra, king of the gods, struck him with his thunderbolt weapon but Garuda proved a superior warrior and defeated the gods and continued unscathed on his journey to Patala.

When the serpents got the amrita they were overjoyed and released Vinata. Garuda got his mother back but he became an inveterate enemy of the serpents, the sons of his mother's rival Kadru. Also the serpents, the Nagas (venomous serpants), symbolized evil and that automatically invoked Garuda's hatred.

As the Nagas were about to consume the amrita Garuda had just brought them, the chasing gods entered Patala and Indra seized and took away the cup of amrita.  Anyway, the serpents had just had time enough to lick a few drops of amrita that spilled from the cup and this was enough to make them immortal. Also, since the celestial drink was very strong, their tongues were split and that is why, to this day, serpents have forked tongues.
Moral : Garuda's love and dedication to his mother is emulative to all of us. -------------------------------

Compiler : Prof. Komaragiri Venkata Ramana Rao. Ph.D., (Retired Professor; Andhra University College of Engineering); Astrologer-Scienitst. Durham. NC; U.S.A.: (Tatayya = Grand-father). My e-mail address : pandit@jyothishi.com---------- I dedicate all these stories in this blog to Sri Parama Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka, Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara.

 

The Story of Tulasi Devi

The Story of Tulasi Devi

Nov-6-2011. Sunday Ksheerabdi Dwadasi holy day.

Once Tulasi devi descended as the daughter of King Kushadvaja. She was married to Jalhandara. It is said that Samudra deva the demigod controlling the nether regions had Lakshmi devi as a daughter (since she appeared from him at time of the churning of the ocean) and Jalandara (one who is born from water).

Jalandara was married to Tulasi devi and drew strength from her purity and chastity. So firm was her chastity that even Lord Shiva could not defeat Jalandara in battle and all the demigods went to Lord Vishnu for help.

At this time, Lord Vishnu went to Tulasi devi assuming the form of her husband, Jalandara. When Tulasi devi embraced Him with love, thinking Him to be her husband; her chastity was momentarily broken. Taking advantage of this, the demigods killed Jalandara.

When Tulasi devi understood what happened, Lord Vishnu revealed His original form. An enraged Tulasi devi cursed Lord Vishnu for His stone hearted behavior to become a stone. Honoring His pure devotee, Lord Vishnu accepted this curse and promised to appear as the Saligrama shila in the Gandika river (now in Nepal). He also gave Tulsai devi the benediction that she will eternally reside with Him as His consort in Vaikuntha. He said that for the benefit of every one she will assume the form of a plant which will be most auspicious for anyone performing devotional service.

Thus devotees never offer anything to Krishna without a Tulasi leaf. He always adorns Himself with a Tulasi garland. The goddess of fortune, Laksmi, is sometimes envious of the Tulasi leaves which are placed at the lotus feet of the Lord, for they remain fixed there and do not move, whereas Laksmiji, although stationed by the chest of the Lord, sometimes has to please other devotees who pray for her favor. Laksmiji sometimes has to go to satisfy her numerous devotees, but tulasi leaves never forsake their position, and the Lord therefore appreciates the service of the tulasi more than the service of Laksmi.

The marriage of Tulasi Devi with Bhagavan Vishnu is performed on Ksheerabdi dwadasi day in the month of Kaarthika (November) every year.-------------------------------

Compiler : Prof. Komaragiri Venkata Ramana Rao. Ph.D., (Retired Professor; Andhra University College of Engineering); Astrologer-Scienitst. Durham. NC; U.S.A.: (Tatayya = Grand-father). My e-mail address : pandit@jyothishi.com---------- I dedicate all these stories in this blog to Sri Parama Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka, Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara.

Durvasa and the Pandavas

Nov.5-2011 (Saturday)

The pandava princes lost their kingdom to Kauravas in gambling. As a result they were forced to go and live in the forest. Lot of their friends including sages used to visit them daily in their forest-ashram. They found it very difficult to give them food. So Panchali the wife of Pandavas prayed the God Bhagavan Sri Krishna. He gave her one Akshaya Pathra which would give any amount of food in a day, till Panchali takes her food. With the Akshaya Pathra the Pandavas were able to give food to all their guests.

The Kauravas wanted to trouble them further. They requested sage Durvasa to visit Pandavas late in the after noon. Durvasa as a very short tempered sage who used to curse people when he gets annoyed. Durvasa reached the forest after Panchali has taken her food. Anyway the pandavas requested the sage to go and take bath in the river so that they can keep food ready. They did not know what to do. Panchali prayed Bhagavan Sri Krishna. Sri Krishna came before them immediately. He said to Panchali, “Sister, I am hungry, give me some food.” Panchali was perplexed and started crying. Sri Krishna asked her to bring the akshaya pathra. In the corner of the Akshaya Pathra, a leaf of Amaranth was sticking. Krishna took the leaf, ate it and drank some water. He told Panchali, “Thanks a lot, my belly is now full”. He then went away. At that time Sage Durvasa was taking his bath. Suddenly he felt that his belly was very full. He was worried that he had made Pandavas cook food for him. He came and excused himself. Like this Sri Krishna solved the problem of Pandavas --------------------------------

Compiler : Prof. Komaragiri Venkata Ramana Rao. Ph.D., (Retired Professor; Andhra University College of Engineering); Astrologer-Scienitst. Durham. NC; U.S.A.: (Tatayya = Grand-father). My e-mail address : pandit@jyothishi.com---------- I dedicate all these stories in this blog to Sri Parama Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka, Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara.

Sttory of Biirth of River Kavaeri

Bhagavan Ganapathi blessed the South India with a great river Story of Birth of River Kaveri
Wednesday. (Nov-2-2011)
The marriage of Shiva and Parvathi was to be celebrated on mount Kailasa. All the people all over the world started traveling towards mount Kailasa. Due to the heavy burden on the northern side, the world started tilting towards the north. To correct this Bhagavan (Lord) Shiva requested sage Agsthya to go and live in the South of India. Agasthya obeyed the orders of Bhagavan (Lord) Shiva and reached the south. The entire south India was extremely dry at that time. Bhagavan (Lord) Shiva had sent some sacred waters of Ganga along with Agasthya, which Sage Agasthya was preserving very carefully in his pot. One day when was asleep, Ganapathi took the form of a crow and toppled Agasthya’s pot. From the Ganga (water) started spreading in to a river. This river was called kaveri - means the river was spread by a crow.
---------------. Compiler : Prof. Komaragiri Venkata Ramana Rao. Ph.D., (Retired Professor; Andhra University College of Engineering); Astrologer-Scienitst. Durham. NC; U.S.A.: (Tatayya = Grand-father). My e-mail address : pandit@jyothishi.com---------- I dedicate all these stories in this blog to Sri Parama Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka, Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara.

Drona’s test to the Pandavas

Drona’s test to the Pandavas

Sunday (Mar—13—2011)

The Pandava’s and Kouravas were growing up together in Hasthinapura. King Bheeshma was searching for a highly capable teacher to them but was not getting one. One day the boys were playing ball in the ground near the forest. Unfortunately their ball fell in to the well. They were not able to play. At that time a sage came there. He asked them, “You look like princes. Why are you not playing? “They told him, “Sir, Our ball fell in to a deep well and we do not know how to recover it. “ That man laughed and told, “I will help you.” He then took his bow and arrows. He shot one arrow on the ball. He shot another on that arrow. Another arrow on the second arrow and so on. Then using the arrows as handle he took out the ball. That day the children reported this to their grand father Bheeshma. Bheeshma immediately decided that the sage was the great teacher Drona. He approached Drona and requested him to teach the Pandavas and Kouravas the art of war. Though he was teaching them very well, all people could see that Arjuna was really becoming an expert. There was a general complaint that Sage Drona was partial to Pandavas. One day Sage Drona called all the family members of Pandavas and Kauravas. He told them, “Today I am going to test all these boys. Please watch what I do.” He then gave one big room each to Pandavas and Kauravas. He also gave them 1000 rupees. He told them, “Please fill up the room, that I gave you fully using this money.” Kauravas went on purchasing hay, sand, old articles etc and filled up their room. However Pandavas went to the shop and purchased lamps, oil and wick. They placed the lamps in different places and lit them. The family members could easily see that Pandavas were clever and have filled their room with light.

Then Drona tied a doll of a bird on the top of a tree. He asked each of the Kouravas to shoot the bird in the neck with an arrow. When they were trying to shoot, he would stop them and ask, “What do you see?” all of them replied things like the tree, branches and the bird. When it was the turn of Arjuna he replied, “I see only the neck of the bird and nothing else.” Then Drona explained “This is the reason why Arjuna excels. “ Full concentration is needed to master any skill. ---------------. Compiler : Prof. Komaragiri Venkata Ramana Rao. Ph.D., (Retired Professor; Andhra University College of Engineering); Astrologer-Scienitst. Durham. NC; U.S.A.: (Tatayya = Grand-father). My e-mail address : pandit@jyothishi.com---------- I dedicate all these stories in this blog to Sri Parama Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka, Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara.

Dasaratha and the blind parents

Dasaratha and the blind parents

Saturday (Mar-12-2011)

There was a young king called Dasaratha. He was capable of fighting ten enemies at the same time. He also knew how to send an arrow to the source of the sound. One day, he went for hunting in the forest. Though he spent lot of time chasing several animals, he could not kill any of them.

At this time one sage boy called Shwetha Kethu, came to the forest carrying his very old father and mother .They were both blind. They wanted some water to drink. So he placed them on a foot of a tree and walked to the nearest river. He was taking water from the river in a pot.

Dasaratha heard the sound of his taking water from a distance. He thought that it was the sound of an elephant drinking water. So he took his bow and arrow and shot an arrow. This arrow hit Swethakethu on his chest. He shouted in pain. Dasaratha ran there and found that Shwetha Kethu was dying. Shwetha Kethu pardoned Dasaratha’s mistake and requested him o take water to his old parents. Dasaratha agreed and took water to them. They took the water thinking it is Shwethakethu but once Dasaratha told them the truth, they became very angry and cursed Dasaratha, “In future you will also part with your son and die pining and weeping for him .” This is why Dasaratha had to send his sons Rama to the forest even though he did not like it.” Soon Dasaratha died pining and weeping for Rama. Harm done to noble and gentle people, knowingly or unknowingly causes disaster to the doer . ------------- Compiler : Prof. Komaragiri Venkata Ramana Rao. Ph.D., (Retired Professor; Andhra University College of Engineering); Astrologer-Scienitst. Durham. NC; U.S.A.: (Tatayya = Grand-father). My e-mail address : pandit@jyothishi.com---------- I dedicate all these stories in this blog to Sri Parama Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka, Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara.

Agasthya and Vathapi

Agasthya and Vathapi

Sunday (Mar—6—2011) Story--42

There was a great Sage called Agasthya. He was very dwarf and stout. At that time there lived two asura brothers called Vathapi and Ilwala. Vathapi could take any form and Ilwala knew the trick of raising the dead. These two asuras used to invite guests. Vathapi would take the form of a goat .Ilwala would kill the goat and cook it and offer it to the guest. Then Ilwala would call, “Vathapi, come back”. Vathapi then would tear the abdomen of the guest who has eaten him and come out. This way Vathapi and Ilwala killed and ate lot of good people. One day they invited Agasthya. As usual Vathapi turned in to a goat and Ilwala cooked him. Agasthya ate the cooked Vathapi. At this time Ilwala called, “Vathapi, come out.” Realizing the trick, Agasthya patted his belly and told, “Vathapi, get digested.” As soon as this words were uttered, Vathapi got digested. Ilwala ran for his life. Moral : However intelligent and strong, the crooked villans always perish. ------------- Compiler : Prof. Komaragiri Venkata Ramana Rao. Ph.D., (Retired Professor; Andhra University College of Engineering); Astrologer-Scienitst. Durham. NC; U.S.A.: (Tatayya = Grand-father). My e-mail address : pandit@jyothishi.com---------- I dedicate all these stories in this blog to Sri Parama Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka, Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara

Nala Damayanthi

Nala Damayanthi

Saturday (Mar—5—2011) Story--41

There was a very pretty princess called Damayanthi. All the princes and even Gods wanted to marry here. Her friend showed her a picture of king Nala. She liked him. Her father arranged for her swayamvara. In swayamvara all the eligible princes are invited and the bride was asked to choose whom she likes. She was not sure whether Nala would attend her swayamvara. So she asked a divine swan to go and tell him that she wanted to marry him. The swan flew to Nala’s place and told him about the swayamvara of Damayanthi. Meanwhile four gods also wanted to marry Damayanthi. They all assumed a similar form as Nala. But when Damayanthi saw that their eyes were not batting, she understood that they were Gods. She chose Nala and married him.

Though Nala was a very good king, he liked gambling. Unfortunately he was not an expert and most of the time lost whatever he waged for. On one occasion he lost his kingdom. He was forced to go out of his kingdom along with Damayanthi. He found that for his sake Damayanthi was suffering. So when Damayanthi was sleeping, he ran away. On the way he fell in a forest fire and was turned black. Meanwhile Damayanthi reached her father’s place. Nala traveling a lot reached the kingdom of Rithuparna. Nala was an expert in driving chariots. So he became the chariot driver to king Rithuparna.

Damayanthi’s father was searching for Nala everywhere. One of his messengers who came to Rithuparna’s kingdom could recognize Nala. He went and told Damayanthi’s father about it. Damayanthi’s father then sent word to only Rithuparna, that there is going to be a second Swayamvara on the next day. Though Rithuparna wanted to attend it, the time was not sufficient to reach Damayanthi’s place. But Nala promised him that he would be able to help him. Nala then drove Rithuparna to Damayanthi’s place. Damayanthi and her father recognized Nala. They promised help to Nala. Rithuparna who was an expert in gambling agreed to teach Gambling to Nala. Nala taught him the science of driving chariots. With the new knowledge, Nala went to his kingdom, gambled and got back his kingdom. Damayanthi and Nala lived happily ever after . Morals :- (1) Gambling ruins a person and robs all his possessions and causes miserty; abstain from it. (2) Knowledge (Vidya) and skill help us in times of need. Nala was an expert chariot-driver; this vidyas helped him when he stayed with King Ruthuparna and also to re-gain his wife Damayanthi. ------------------- Compiler : Prof. Komaragiri Venkata Ramana Rao. Ph.D., (Retired Professor; Andhra University College of Engineering); Astrologer-Scienitst. Durham. NC; U.S.A.: (Tatayya = Grand-father). My e-mail address : pandit@jyothishi.com---------- I dedicate all these stories in this blog to Sri Parama Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka, Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara

Story of Valmiki

Benefits of Japa : Story of Valmiki

Feb--26--2011. (Sunday)

Maharishi Valmiki was born as Ratnakara to sage Prachetasa. At a very young age, Ratnakara went into the forest and got lost. A hunter, who was passing by, saw Ratnakara and took him under his own care. Under the love and care of his foster parents, Ratnakara forgot his original parents. Under his father's guidance, Ratnakara turned out to be an excellent hunter. As he approached marriageable age, Ratnakara was married to a beautiful girl from hunter's family.
Turning into a Robber
As his family grew larger, Ratnakara found it next to impossible to feed them. As a result, he took to robbery and began looting people passing from one village to another.
Meeting with Narada and Transformation
One day, the great sage Narada, while passing through the jungle, was attacked by Ratnakara. As Narada played his Veena and sang praises of the Bhagavan Narayana, he saw a transformation coming over Ratnakara. Then, he asked Ratnakara whether the family, for whom he was robbing others, will partake in his sins also. Ratnakara went to ask the same question to his family and on being refused by all his family members, he went back to sage Narada, frustrated. Narada taught him the sacred name of 'Rama' and asked him to sit in meditation, chanting the name of Rama, till the time Narada came back.
Ratnakara followed the instructions and kept sitting in a meditative posture for years, during which his body got completely covered by an anthill. At last, Bhagavan Sri Narayana appeared and blessed Ratnakara; Narada also came to see him and removed all the anthills from his body. Then, he told Ratnakara that his tapasya (meditation) paid off and the God was pleased with him. Ratnakara was bestowed with all the divine knowledge and wisdom and also the honor of a Brahmarshi; he wa given a new name of Valmiki, since he was reborn from the Valmika (the ant-hill). Sage Valmiki founded his ashram at the banks of holy River Ganga.
Receiving Lord Rama
One day, Valmiki had the fortuity of receiving Lord Sri Rama, His wife Sita and brother Lakshman at his ashram. On Valmiki's suggestion, Lord Rama built his hut on Chitrakuta hill, near his ashram.
Writing Ramayana
Narada visited Maharishi Valmiki in his ashram once; then, he narrated the story of Lord Rama. Thereafter Valmiki received a vision from Bhagavan Brahma in which the Lord instructed him to write epic Ramayana in slokas, which the sage readily followed. ---------------- ------------(concluded) -------------- I dedicate all these articles in this blog to Sri Parama Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka, Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara ! --------------- You can get my full particulars from my web-site : www.jyothishi.com. You can get my astrological services by contacting me by e-mail: pandit@jyothishi.com and know my fee particulars. I have 48 years of experience / practice as an active astrologer. ==============

King Ambarisha and Sage Durvasa

King Ambarisha and Sage Durvasa

Feb—26—2011 Saturday Ambareesha was a noble king of Ayodhya; he was a great devotee of Bhagavan Sri Maha Vishnu. Once he asked his family priest Maharshi Vasishta what he should do to serve Bhagavan Vishnu. Vasishta said that he should perform Dwadashi Vrata. Dwadasi is the twelth day of the moon next to Ekadasi the eleventh day of moon. This vratha is an extension of Ekadasi Vrata when the devotee breaks his fast by drinking holy water used in pooja / abhishekam (Paaranam) on Dwadasi day soon after vratha (worship); latest before 12 hrs, noon.

One day the great sage Durvasava came to meet the king. It was a Dwadasi day. Durvasav went to river to take a holy bath after which both would take Paaranam(breaking the fast with water). But Durvasav did not return from bath. After waiting for a long time till 2 hrs afternoon, as per the advise of the priest, Ambarisha drank Paranam. Soon Durvsava came along and found that the King had taken Paaranam. Durvasa was proud and had ego; he felt this was a great insult to him, the holy Sage. The king tried his best to explain his behaviour. He tried to pacify the sage politely. But the Sage's anger increased and he created a terrible demoness called Kritya with his divine powers and sent her at the king to cut off his head. Immediately Sudarsana, the divine toothed-disc-weapon of Bhagavan Sri Maha Vishnu rushed in between and cut off the head of Kritya and started chasing Durvasava.

Sage Durvasava was terrified and ran to Brahma's abode to seek protection; but Bhagavan Brahma declined. Chased by Sudarshana chakra, Durvasa ran to Bhagavan Shiva to save him; and he also declined. Again chased by Sudarshana, the sage ran to Bhagavan Sri Maha Vishnu. Bhagavan Sri Vishnu asked him to go back to Ambarisha and beg his pardon. Again chased by Sudarshana, Durvasava ran back to Ambarisha and begged his pardon; noble Ambarisha readily pardoned the sage, upon which Sudarshana retired, ending his agony. Durvasava blessed Ambareesha with boons.

The morals of this story : (1) Anger is the worst enemy of any person and harms him. (2) God (Bhagavan) protects his true devotes always.------------ Compiler : Prof. Komaragiri Venkata Ramana Rao. Ph.D., (Retired Professor; Andhra University College of Engineering); Astrologer-Scienitst. Durham. NC; U.S.A.: (Tatayya = Grand-father). My e-mail address : pandit@jyothishi.com---------- I dedicate all these stories in this blog to Sri Parama Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka, Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara ! ---------------------------

Ravana and his brothers

Ravana and his brothers

Feb--20--2011. Part-38 Sunday

There was a Rakshasi (demon) called Kaikasi. She was the daughter of a great Rakshasa called Malyavan. At that time the devas were all powerful and the Rakshasas lived in hiding. One day Malyavan saw the wealth and strength of Kubera who was the son of a sage called Visravas. Coming back home he advised his daughter Kaikasi to approach Visravas and request him to marry her. Visravas refused but when she went on serving him and requested him, he agreed. Four children were born to them. They were Ravana, Kumbhakarna, Vibheeshana and a daughter called Surpanaka

As per the advice of Malyavan and Kaikasi Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Vibheeshana went to do Tapas (meditation and prayer) to Bhagavan (Lord)) Brahma. After a long time Bhagavan (Lord)) Brahma appeared before them and wanted to know what boon he can give them. Ravana requested that he should not be killed by anybody. Bhagavan (Lord)) Brahma told him that, he could not give him that boon as it went against nature. Then Ravana asked him that he should not be killed by anybody except monkeys and man. Brahma gave him this boon. Kumbhakarna wanted a boon so that no one can defeat him (Nirdevathwam). But the devas made him ask for always sleeping (Nidrevathwam). Vibheeshana asked for Bhakthi to Bhagavan (Lord) Vishnu.--------------

Compiler : Prof. Komaragiri Venkata Ramana Rao. Ph.D., (Retired Professor; Andhra University College of Engineering); Astrologer-Scienitst. Durham. NC; U.S.A.: (Tatayya = Grand-father). My e-mail address : pandit@jyothishi.com---------- I dedicate all these stories in the blog with utmost devotion to Sri Parama Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka, Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara ! Aum tat sath !

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Great persons are always humble

Great persons are always humble

Feb—19—2011 Saturday

Bhagavan (Lord) Rama, the Paramaathma (God), was of course the greatest warrior ever. Bhagavan Sri Krishna in Bhagavadgita remarked “I am Rama among warriors”. Rama learnt all the sciences (Shastras) and unparalled Dhanurvidya (archery) under the guidance of the great Sage Maharshi Vasishtha. He was also given super-human powers like bala, athi bala by the great sage Maharsh Vishwamithra, the author of the divine Gayathri manthra. Vishwamithra maharshi also taught Rama all the secret astras that ever existed, which only he in this whole universe knew (he originally learnt them from Bhagavan (Lord) Shiva. In addition to these, Maharshi Agasthya bestowed Sri Rama many additional divine powers. A few examples of Bhagavan Sri Rama’s valour:

1. With a songle arrow Rama killed fierce demoness taataki. 2) With two simultaneous arrows he killed mighty demons, Subaahu and threw Maaricha seven seas away.

2. Effortlessly he lifted the Shiva dhanush (archer), which was pulled to the court by around by 500 strong persons.

3. Rama killed demons Khara, Dhushana, their 1000 brothers and their army in 12 minutes (one muhurtha) single handed. 4. With one arrow he struck seven mighty and huge palm trees to ground.

Despite being such a great warrior, he never displayed hix strength on his own to exibit to others. The anger on the samudra (God of ocean) served as a good example for this noble quality of Rama:

Demon king Ravana gave 30 days time to Sita maata to decide if she would marry him, else he would kill her. Bharata took word from Rama saying that if he did not return on the next moment of 14 yrs of aranyavaas, then he would sacrifice his life, himself. Rama and his army reached the shores of ocean with barely 30 days in hand. They have to cross the ocean, defeat Ravana and his army, to take sita back to Ayodhya before 30 days time. With such a press for time and given the strength of Rama, Lakshmana suggested Rama not to spend time requesting ocean God for way, but to order him sternly.

What Rama did was unbelievable. Though he had the strength and power to control the ocean God, he did not do it. He did penance on the shores of the ocean for 3 long days to give them a way. Finally after 3 days Rama got angry on the ocean and to remind his duty, aims a teerible astra-arrow at ocean to drain it; immediately ocean God appeared and suggested a way of crossing him.

Sri Rama must use the powerful asthra-arrow which he already aimed at ocean; he should not withdraw it. On the request of ocean God, he shot it towards far-far west. The result was a very huge continent, now called Krowncha dweepa (island) rose up from the deep oceans. The present huge continent of America (both north and south America) exist on that Krowncha Dweepa. Morals in the Story:

1. We, for our small petty achievements in life, are very proud (ahankaar) and given a small chance, display our strengths. The way of great people was quite different as shown by Bhagavan (Lord) Sri Rama.

2. One must never use the strength or powers just because he possesses him, but judiciously use them for the benefit of everyone and benefit of Dharma.

Message:

1. Controlling one’s ahankaara (ego) is one the most difficult things. If it is controlled, we will have a more peaceful world.

2) Always powerful people who are polite are only respected by others. If Bhagavan (Lord) Rama Himself is so humble, as mere normal human beings imagine how much polite we must be to our parents and noble elders.------- Compiler : Prof. Komaragiri Venkata Ramana Rao. Ph.D., (Retired Professor; Andhra University College of Engineering); Astrologer-Scienitst. Durham. NC; U.S.A.: (Tatayya = Grand-father). My e-mail address : pandit@jyothishi.com---------- I dedicate all these stories in the blog with utmost devotion to Sri Parama Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka, Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara ! Aum tat sath ! ==================

Nachiketa; Part-5

Nachiketa

Part-5 Feb—13--2011 Sunday
The Kathopanishad outlines a pure, unequivocal choice. Yama tells Nachiketa that there are two alternative paths before us in the world. One is good and the other is pleasant. One, though difficult, leads to the knowledge of the highest Truth. The other, though appearing very pleasant, is ephemeral and when an apparently pleasurable experience passes, as it inevitably will, there is pain. The wise choose that which is good, and the ignorant rely on that which is pleasant.
That is the nature of life. The purpose of life is to grow, expand, and completely realize one’s own true identity. If the path toward that goal is not taken, then the world will bring one around toward it. Blow after blow, one misfortune will follow another, one disappointment, then another, until the person begins to understand. The choice between good and pleasant becomes clear.
The theme of Kathopanishad is that the treasure of human life, the real Self, is to be found within. Within is immortality. Within is where Atman or Reality resides. The journey to the discovery of the real Self is the goal or the purpose of life. One who has realized one’s own real Self can then realize the cosmic Self who encompasses the entire universe. ------------- Compiler : Prof. Komaragiri Venkata Ramana Rao. Ph.D., (Retired Professor; Andhra University College of Engineering); Astrologer-Scienitst. Durham. NC; U.S.A.: (Tatayya = Grand-father). My e-mail address : pandit@jyothishi.com---------- I dedicate all these stories in the blog to Sri Parama Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka, Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara ! =====================================================

Nachiketa--Part-4

Nachiketa

Part- 4 Feb—12-2011 Saturday
“Those who are dwelling in the darkness of ignorance and are deluded by wealth and possessions are like children playing with toys,” says Yama to Nachiketa. “Such foolish children are caught in the snares of death and come again and again under my sway. They remain in the snares of death. They cannot get beyond the limits of the dark realm. They travel back and forth.”
Fortunately, this condition is not permanent. Eventually a time comes when the desire for all of those objects—what the nineteenth century Bengali saint Ramakrishna Paramahamsa repeatedly referred to as lust and greed—begins to appear as empty and pointless.
Growth and expansion are the nature of the soul, so inevitably what happens is: a person comes to recognize the pattern that behind every pleasure is pain, behind every expectation is disappointment, and following every fulfilled desire is yet another desire. For all the world’s charms, the bottom line and the sum of it all adds up to an inordinate amount of suffering, loneliness, and emptiness.
That arithmetic is instructive. The bottom line awakens the human soul. Suffering teaches and trains a person in the necessary art of discrimination. --------------------------------------------

Nachiketa--Part-3

Nachiketa

Part-3 Feb--6--2011 Sunday

Thus was Nachiketa enlightened, and when he returned, he was warmly welcomed by his father and the other rishis, and he grew up to become a great rishi himself before attained the heavens, free from birth and death cycle.

The story of Nachiketa inspires us to be kind to all living beings, generous with our fellow-men, respect our parents and be steadfast in our resolve. We also learn that Divine knowledge is more valuable than worldly luxuries.

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Now the Kathopanishad begins in earnest to reveal the secret of immortality, the meaning of death and life.
Worldly, transitory life, with all of its charms, is not the purpose of human existence. The world is full of objects and temptations. People want them, choose them, and organize their lives around getting them, lifetime after lifetime.
Today a person develops a pattern of identifying with the world, with its objects, and with the emotions that go with having those objects or with the possibility of losing them. He begins to think that joy will come with having glamorous possessions, a new car, a new suit, or a new spouse. With each new acquisition there is a flash of satisfaction followed by a prolonged sense of dissatisfaction.
A person identifies with the emotions that go with the objects and relationships. He thinks he loves someone, that he must have her to be happy. When he has her, so often the relationship settles into something else that is not very loving. He may hurt the person he said he needed. Then he says he is sorry. A month passes and he does the same hurtful thing again. Finally, they separate. So he finds another person he thinks he needs for his happiness, and the process begins all over again.
There are many variations of this theme. The point is that a human being becomes attached to things and relationships, and the thoughts and emotions attendant to the attachments. That creates suffering because none of those things or relationships lasts. Nonetheless, human beings keep trying to find peace in this way, lifetime after lifetime. --------

Nachiketa

Part-2 Jan—30-2011 Sunday

Nachiketa found his way to Yama Puri, only to find that the Bhagavan (Bhagavan (Lord)) was out, and wouldn’t return for 3 days. The guards refused to let him enter the palace in the absence of their master, and the little boy spent the 3 days and nights outside the palace gates of Yama, without a morsel of food or a drop of water! What endurance! and that too for a boy barely 7 years old!

When Yama returned, he was stunned to see the child waiting for him at his doorstep, and was aghast when he learnt that no one had even offered him food or water for 3 days! He reprimanded his wife and servants, and ordered them to serve Nachiketa at once. He himself took the little boy inside and fed him with the choicest delicacies, and made him comfortable.

However, he still felt responsible for violating the rules for treatment of a guest, and, in an effort to make up for it, said, “Nachiketa, I have sinned by making a Brahmin child like you wait without food or water. Allow me to cleanse myself by offering you three boons. Ask for whatever you wish, and it will be yours!”

Nachiketa explained the situation to Yama and said that as per his father’s word, he was now a property of Yama, and that he would stay back in Yama Puri as his servant. But Yama pacified him, and assuring him that he was relieved from his bondage, and insisted that he ask for the 3 boons he wanted. Finally, Nachiketa replied, “Bhagavan (Bhagavan (Lord)), thank you for welcoming me so warmly, setting me free of bondage, and offering me the boons. My first wish is that when I return home, my father should welcome me warmly, without any ill feeling.” Yama replied “Let it be so.” Nachiketa then said, “My second wish is that I acquire the knowledge through which I can attain immortality and go to heaven.” Yama was pleased and taught him the secrets of the sacred fire which unveiled the secrets of heaven and immortality. Nachiketa learnt this so fast and easily, that Yama further declared that this fire would henceforth be known by his name, as ‘Nachiketa Agni’. ---------------- Compiler : Prof. Komaragiri Venkata Ramana Rao. Ph.D., (Retired Professor; Andhra University College of Engineering); Astrologer-Scienitst. Durham. NC; U.S.A.: (Tatayya = Grand-father). My e-mail address : pandit@jyothishi.com---------- I dedicate all these stories in the blog to Sri Parama Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka, Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara !

Nachiketa

Part-2 Jan—30-2011 Sunday

Nachiketa found his way to Yama Puri, only to find that the Bhagavan (Bhagavan (Lord)) was out, and wouldn’t return for 3 days. The guards refused to let him enter the palace in the absence of their master, and the little boy spent the 3 days and nights outside the palace gates of Yama, without a morsel of food or a drop of water! What endurance! and that too for a boy barely 7 years old!

When Yama returned, he was stunned to see the child waiting for him at his doorstep, and was aghast when he learnt that no one had even offered him food or water for 3 days! He reprimanded his wife and servants, and ordered them to serve Nachiketa at once. He himself took the little boy inside and fed him with the choicest delicacies, and made him comfortable.

However, he still felt responsible for violating the rules for treatment of a guest, and, in an effort to make up for it, said, “Nachiketa, I have sinned by making a Brahmin child like you wait without food or water. Allow me to cleanse myself by offering you three boons. Ask for whatever you wish, and it will be yours!”

Nachiketa explained the situation to Yama and said that as per his father’s word, he was now a property of Yama, and that he would stay back in Yama Puri as his servant. But Yama pacified him, and assuring him that he was relieved from his bondage, and insisted that he ask for the 3 boons he wanted. Finally, Nachiketa replied, “Bhagavan (Bhagavan (Lord)), thank you for welcoming me so warmly, setting me free of bondage, and offering me the boons. My first wish is that when I return home, my father should welcome me warmly, without any ill feeling.” Yama replied “Let it be so.” Nachiketa then said, “My second wish is that I acquire the knowledge through which I can attain immortality and go to heaven.” Yama was pleased and taught him the secrets of the sacred fire which unveiled the secrets of heaven and immortality. Nachiketa learnt this so fast and easily, that Yama further declared that this fire would henceforth be known by his name, as ‘Nachiketa Agni’. ---------------- Compiler : Prof. Komaragiri Venkata Ramana Rao. Ph.D., (Retired Professor; Andhra University College of Engineering); Astrologer-Scienitst. Durham. NC; U.S.A.: (Tatayya = Grand-father). My e-mail address : pandit@jyothishi.com---------- I dedicate all these stories in the blog to Sri Parama Paalakas (Supreme Rulers of this entire Universe): Bhagavan Sri Siddhi Vinayaka, Sri Lakshmi Narayana and Sri Gouri Sankara and Sri Saraswathi and Bhagavan Sri Venkateswara !