S2S: August 2025

Friday, 29 August 2025

Q: Gurudev, how can we truly feel blessed in life, even when things don't go our way?

Q: Gurudev, how can we truly feel blessed in life, even when things don't go our way? Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji - Break through all the barriers and feel that you Are Blessed. This Is The One And Only Step You Have To take – the rest will all happen. This deep sense of feeling that “I am blessed” can help you overcome any obstacles in life. It gives you courage and confidence and it will open your lid for grace to be poured in. Once you realize that you are blessed, then: All the complaints disappear All the grumbling disappears All the insecurities disappear A sense of feeling unloved disappears Wanting love disappears. If you don’t realize you are blessed, then the doership begins. If you want to make a difference in your life, feel you are blessed. And especially for those on this path of knowledge, there is no reason for you to not feel blessed. So, feel you are blessed. This is the first step towards the Self. Blessing comes to you in many forms. If you are generous, blessing comes to you as abundance. If you are hardworking, blessing comes to you as happiness. If you are lazy, blessing comes to you as hard work! (Laughter) If you are pleasure loving, blessing comes to you as dispassion. If you are dispassionate, blessing comes to you as knowledge of the Self. Let's share this post so that @Gurudev’s words reach more hearts ❤️ 🌟 Follow Gurudev Sri Sri Knowledge Snippets & i_am_a_sadhak for more such wisdom by Gurudev Sri Sri

Interesting Forward, I don't know who wrote:

Interesting Forward, I don't know who wrote: Many years ago, when I transitioned from being Vice Chairman of Hindustan Lever to becoming a Director on the Board of Tata Sons, I took it upon myself to make courtesy calls to all the 18 directors. Among them was the redoubtable Nani Palkhivala — legendary jurist and constitutional expert . He was past his professional peak, but still remarkably alert, gracious, and welcoming. In our conversation, he shared a story that left a lasting impression on me — one about courage, conviction, and consequences. Back in 1977–78, Mr. Palkhivala had been retained by then Prime Minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi to argue a case related to fundamental rights. That night, he learned that she had declared the Emergency — effectively suspending many of the democratic freedoms enshrined in the Constitution. On principle, he could not support such a move. So, without fanfare, he resigned as her legal counsel. The next morning, J.R.D. Tata called him and said, “Do you realize what you’ve done? You have just turned down the Prime Minister. This might bring serious trouble for us at Tata Sons.” Without hesitation, Palkhivala replied: “Jeh, if I have done something that could harm the Tatas, then I must resign from the Board. I have no right to bring damage to this institution.” He stood firm: his conscience would not allow him to remain associated with what he considered a betrayal of democratic values. J.R.D.’s response was equally powerful. He told him: “If you have acted out of conviction, and done what you believe is right, then there is no need to resign from Tata Sons.” That exchange stayed with me. Because true courage is not loud. It does not flaunt a badge. It lies in doing the right thing — not merely thinking or talking about it. Nani Palkhivala’s story reminded me that integrity sometimes comes with risk — but that risk is what gives integrity its worth.

So Karna single handedly defeated the entire army of Chitrasena’s army.

Why did Karna get defeated by Gandharvas while Arjuna defeated them quite easily? Arjuna defeated them quite easily due to a very simple reason. Let's see what actually happened between Karna and the Gandharvas. They had three different encounters. ‘On seeing the gandharvas swiftly descend on them with raised weapons, the sons of Dhritarashtra could be seen to flee in all the directions. On seeing that the sons of Dhritarashtra were fleeing from the field of battle, the brave Vaikartana was the only one who wasn’t reluctant to do battle. On seeing the great army of gandharvas descend on him, Radheya repulsed them with a mighty shower of arrows. With great lightness of hand, the suta’s son killed hundreds of gandharvas with kshurapras,34 vishikhas,35 bhallas,36 vatsadantas37 and iron arrows. The maharatha sliced off the heads of many gandharvas and in a short while, dispersed all of Chitrasena’s army. So Karna single handedly defeated the entire army of Chitrasena’s army. Although the gandharvas were killed by the intelligent son of the suta, they returned again in hundreds and thousands. In a short instant, the earth was covered with gandharvas and Chitrasena’s soldiers descended with great force. Then King Duryodhana, Shakuni Soubala, Duhshasana, Vikarna and other sons of Dhritarashtra ascended chariots that screeched like Garuda and began to kill those soldiers. They fought again, placing Karna at the forefront. There was the giant roar of chariots and the stamping of the feet of horses. Supporting Vaikartana, they repulsed the gandharvas. Then all the gandharvas descended on the Kouravas and the battle that raged was extremely terrible. It made the body hair stand up. Oppressed by the arrows, the gandharvas began to wilt. On seeing that the gandharvas were suffering, the Kouravyas roared loudly. Karna defeated the Gandharvas again, which finally angered Chitrasena and he started using maya to counter the Kourava army. On seeing that the gandharvas were frightened, Chitrasena was overcome with anger. He angrily flew up from his seat, resolving to kill them. That brave one began to fight with weapons of maya, following wonderful paths. The Kouravyas were bewildered because of Chitrasena’s maya. O descendant of the Bharata lineage! It seemed as if each one of Dhritrarashtra’s sons was assailed and surrounded by ten gandharvas. Contrary to popular belief, Karna wasn’t not afffected by Chitrasena’s maya and he was the only one who stood there unaffected and kept fighting. Dhritarashtra were being destroyed. O king! Vaikartana Karna was the only one who stood immobile like a mountain. Duryodhana, Karna and Shakuni Soubala were severely wounded in the field of battle, but kept fighting the gandharvas. With a desire to kill Karna in battle, hundreds and thousands of gandharvas rushed collectively towards him. With a desire to kill the son of the suta, the immensely strong ones surrounded him from all sides, with swords, javelins, spears and maces. Some sliced off the yoke, others brought down the flagpole. Some brought down the shafts, the horses and the charioteer. Some sliced down the umbrella, others the fenders and the diadem. In many thousands, the gandharvas shattered the chariot. Holding a sword and a shield in his hand, the son of the suta jumped down from the chariot. He leapt onto Vikarna’s chariot and whipped the horses, so that he might escape.’ So basically Karna did defeat the Gandharvas atleast twice and even countered Chitrasena’s maya and only strategically retreated after looking at the situation, believing all hope is lost. Arjuna on the other hand countered Chitrasena's illusion and defeated him in battle. This would prove his superiority right? Here's what Chitrasena's said: Chitrasena was fighting mildly with Arjuna, he never wanted to cause any harm to the Pandavas. As we see The Gandharvas never wanted to kill Arjuna, they only wanted to kill Duryodhana and Karna. So in summary: Karna defeated hundreds of thousands of Gandharvas and shattered their entire fleet twice Chitrasena realises this and starts using illusion warfare which gives him and upper hand. Karna is still majorly unaffected but still retreats from the battlefield. Arjuna and the other Pandavas enter the battle as a team and start beating the Gandharvas. Arjuna counters the illusion. Chitrasena reveals that he was only here to protect Arjuna, the Gandharvas were only there to kill or defeat Duryodhana and Karna. It was not a real battle. So it was basically a rigged match. Indra orchestrated the whole thing for the humiliation.

Q: Gurudev, how can we truly feel blessed in life, even when things don't go our way?

THE CONQUERING HORSE

Good Morning!!! THE CONQUERING HORSE Around the Year with Emmet Fox August 28 “And I saw, and behold a white horse: and that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer” Revelation 6:2 The White Horse is the spiritual nature, and the man or woman who rides the White Horse achieves freedom, and joy, and ultimate happiness and harmony. We are told two very interesting things about the Horseman on the White Horse: the Bible says that he that sat on him had a bow. The bow and arrow is an ancient symbol of the spoken Word. When you speak the Word you shoot an arrow. It goes where you aim it. The Horseman on the White Horse speaks the Word. The rider on the White Horse also wears a crown, and the crown is a symbol of victory. The rider on the White Horse is always the victor. This, then, is the story of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. If you want peace, an understanding of God, there is only one way— you must ride the White Horse.

Jai Ganesh

This year Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated from August 27th to September 6th. We understand the true meaning of the birth of Sri Ganesh. The mythological story goes that Sri Shankar Ji cut the head of a child, which Sri Parvati Ji had created out of the dust on her body to guard the gate when she wished to bathe, and then Sri Shankar Ji placed the head of an elephant on the child’s body. This symbolizes that God – The Supreme Father finishes our head of ego and replaces it with a head of wisdom. Wisdom gives us the strength to destroy all our obstacles or become a Vighna Vinashak in our life, which Sri Ganesh is symbolic of. Let’s understand all the other aspects of Sri Ganesh and their divinity and spirituality – 1. The large forehead of Sri Ganesh signifies wisdom. When we study the spiritual knowledge given by the Supreme Father and inculcate it in our every thought, word and action, we become full of wisdom. 2. Broad ears shaped like sieves (filters) mean that we consume only that which is good in every person and situation. Imbibing pure information keeps the mind clean. 3. Small eyes are symbolic of farsightedness, which means see the future result of each karma, before we do the karma today. 4. A small mouth of Sri Ganesh is a reminder for us to speak less and each word should be a blessing for our self and others. 5. The trunk is powerful enough to uproot trees and soft enough to pick a child. This means we need to be soft and strong emotionally. We need to keep a balance of love and law while performing our responsibilities. 6. Sri Ganesh is shown with only one tusk. It signifies that we should not be caught into dualities of likes and dislikes, pleasure and pain, pleasant and unpleasant, good and bad. We have to overcome these and develop contentment and remain peaceful in all circumstances. 7. The large stomach of Sri Ganesh represents the power to accommodate. We should not talk to others about people’s weaknesses and their incorrect actions. 8. An axe, rope and lotus are shown in Sri Ganesh’s hands and his one hand is giving blessings. Axe represents the power to cut negative habits. Rope is symbolic of remaining tied to the discipline of a pure lifestyle. Lotus life means living in the muddy surroundings but untouched and pure. The hand of blessings means irrespective of how others behave, our thoughts and words for them should only be a blessing. 9. He is shown sitting with one leg touching the ground and other folded. This is a reminder for us to remain grounded and humble. To be in the world and yet detached from it. 10. The modak placed in one of his hands represents success as a result of hard work. But he is never shown eating it, which means achieve success but don’t take credit for it. Modak also symbolizes unity and co-operation since all 5 fingers are needed to make a modak. 11. The mouse which is shown close to Sri Ganesh’s feet symbolizes victory over vices and desires. Just as a mouse quietly enters a house even through a tiny hole, vices enter a soul who is not alert. When we imbibe all the qualities of Sri Ganesh, we will overpower our vices and desires. When we start experiencing and expressing the divine qualities as symbolized by Sri Ganesh in our every thought, word and action, our obstacles get destroyed and we enjoy purity, peace and prosperity at every step in our lives.

If Draupadi secretly loved Karna, why did she reject him at her Swayamvara?

If Draupadi secretly loved Karna, why did she reject him at her Swayamvara? Thanks for the question that I am answering again,no problem. Would you enjoy watching Jahnavi Kapur getting paired with Khans who are 50 plus? No naa? Draupadi Karna pairing also will look like that only. Do you know Karna was atleast 16 years older than Arjuna? If you are unaware of that you better realise it. So age wise Draupadi was more than twenty years younger to Karna. Dont go by Palace Of Illusions,outcast’s Queen,Yajnaseni!Jayam ,Mrityunjay….the list is too long. I am sure it will become longer .. Draupadi did not reject Karna. For she doesn’t even know about him..by all means. Panchala king Drupada’s earnest desire is to get a daughter who could marry Arjun. He did a sacrifice to fulfill his desire. So Draupadi was born to marry Arjun. He was her destiny…not Karna . Draupadi was born as a young woman. Within a short while Drupada announced her Swayamvara only to attract Arjun’s attention. He was shattered on hearing about the death of Arjuna in Laksha grih fire. But with a hope that Pandavas survived,he arranged Swayamvara. Arjuna came and fulfilled the prophecy... Secret love? Draupadi doesn’t need to love secretly. For she loved Arjun openly. Her love was so focused that even Yudhishtir could acknowledge and declare that she loved Arjuna more. Dont go by Jambu fruit incident. The first version of that story had Draupadi admitting her love for Arjuna. Later it was changed to Karna by other writers. Drupada must have told his daughter for whom she was born. So Draupadi’s love was crystal clear not secret. By the way no one will love some one older by twenty years. In olden days second marriages used to happen with that much age gap. So Draupadi did not love Karna that too in secrecy. Draupadi did not reject Karna . He failed to hit the target. My self,Arnab Ghosh,Anmol Kumar Sarma and many others provided proof from all versions of the Epic citing Karna’s failure. I wish you go through them and realise the truth. Note..Whatever I said above I have references from Sanskrit versions.

🙏🏼 Namaskar to Ganapati Bappa and to you

🙏🏼 Namaskar to Ganapati Bappa and to you 🕉️ Happy morning. A lovely forward. Couldn't resist sharing. Compiler unknown!!!! 💫 *points to ponder* 🤔 1) When the axe came to the forest, the trees said the handle was one of us. Until they felt its cuts:. BETRAYAL IS within. 2) When a kid grows up, a pencil is replaced by a pen just to make the kid realize that now it is not easy to erase the mistake. 3) If loyalty was real, water is not supposed to cook the fish. 4) How I wish RIP means Return If Possible. 5) One sad truth about life is that you may not even be part of the future you’re stressed about. 6) The day you lose your father is the day you will realize that you have lost the only man who wanted to see you better than him. 7) The sheep lived all her life, fearing the wolf, but it was the shepherd that finally ate it. 8) When we were kids, we cried loudly to be noticed. But now we cry silently because we don’t want anyone to know. 9) My mom always said, "don’t talk while eating." I never knew she was talking about life. 10) Just because you’re a good person, doesn’t mean the world owes you kindness. 11) When the blind man sees, he throws away the stick that has been helping him for years. 12) *Nowadays, you MAY need money to become a member of your own family.* 13) FAMILY is like a FOREST from a distance. They are all close until you get closer to see how SEPARATED trees are !

Q:- Dear Gurudev, I am involved in several community service projects, and have many leadership positions, and now the politics around me is bothering me and making me less effective. Please advice.

Q:- Dear Gurudev, I am involved in several community service projects, and have many leadership positions, and now the politics around me is bothering me and making me less effective. Please advice. Gurudev :- Wherever there are people, politics is bound to be there. Don’t shy away from it and don’t worry about it, you be rock solid. What appears to be politics will find its own way out. Have faith that only the best will happen to you and you will be able to do only the best! Keep these aphorisms with you like a treasure. When you resist politics then you get deeply into politics. Your perception becomes political and you will get paranoid about it. All those who are paranoid about politics get deep into it. You should not mind it and then it will never bother you. What is politics? Different people have different mindsets, and they air their opinions. For a while these opinions remain and then it all changes. Some people praise you and the same people will make nasty remarks about you, all this is very common. You should take this for granted or you will become uptight. When you are uptight you are not aware of how you behave. It is better to keep oneself on a higher pedestal, smiling, laughing, accommodating and accepting that there is politics. Let politics be there, so what? You have to create this confidence that you will move through it. Our trouble is that we expect everyone to be Mr. Perfect or Ms. Perfect! We expect everyone’s behavior and dealings to be perfect. We expect everyone to be saints but they are not, this is the trouble . And when anybody does anything different, we say, "Oh there is politics!" People’s actions is nothing but politics , it doesn’t have to be dirty all the time, though most of the time it is. So let it be! It takes quite a bit to rise above all this and keep your mind on the infinite, and that is enlightenment! You rise above it. Water is never scared of mud. So if something is muddy, you are water, you can wash it all off! Just remember this,politics is mud and I am water, I will run over it. There is a beautiful poem in Kannada ‘If someone builds a home in the forest and is afraid of animals, what can I tell them? If someone has built a home on the sea shore and is scared of the waves, what can I tell them? And if someone has built a home in the middle of a market place and is complaining about the noise, what can I tell them?' Similarly, when you live on this planet, people will give you compliments and people will give you derogatory remarks. They will create politics. How can you be afraid of politics when you are on this planet? Never complain about people playing politics, that is what they will do and will continue to do. Lord Krishna never complained to anyone about the politics played by the families. He didn’t say, "Don’t play politics, I will not come to you", no! He was right there! Even during the time of Jesus and Buddha, there was politics. [28/08, 13:11] Ravi Valluri: "If I have hurt you in thoughts, words, or actions, please forgive me. " "Michhami Dukkadam

I CHOOSE ANONYMITY

Good Morning!!! God grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change; Courage to change the things I can; and Wisdom to know the difference. Thy will, not mine, be done. *~*~*~*~*^Daily Reflections^*~*~*~*~* August 29, 2025 I CHOOSE ANONYMITY We are sure that humility, expressed by anonymity, is the greatest safeguard that Alcoholics Anonymous can ever have. 12 Steps & 12 Traditions, p.187 Since there are no rules in A.A. I place myself where I want to be, and so, I choose anonymity. I want my God to use me, humbly, as one of His tools in this program. Sacrifice is the art of giving of myself freely, allowing humility to replace my ego. With sobriety, I suppress that urge to cry out to the world, "I am a member of A.A." and I experience inner joy and pe

THE BOOK OF GENESIS

Good Morning!!! THE BOOK OF GENESIS Around the Year with Emmet Fox August 29 Genesis means origin or beginning, and this, the first book of the Bible, explains how things and conditions come into existence. Genesis deals with this creative power of thought. The first section deals with generic thought. The second, the story of Adam and Eve, deals with specific thought, or how a given person builds every condition that exists in his life. The sections concerning Cain and Abel, the tower of Babel, the flood, the story of Abraham and his family, the story of Joseph and his brethren all deal in different ways with the creative power of thought, showing how it is the genesis of all things that exist. The book of Genesis is partly allegorical and partly historical. Unless you have the spiritual meaning behind the story, you do not possess the Bible at all. The covenant of Sinai, necessary and good in its place, signifies the attempt to order things from the outside and is, of course, much better than anarchy; but he who is on the spiritual path must pass beyond this to the spiritual Jerusalem, which is the ordering of things from the inside by the Practice of the Presence of God. This is the new Jerusalem that cometh straight down from God out of heaven. “And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven” Revelation 21:2 The book of Genesis having explained the creative power of thought, the other books of the Bible then proceed to illustrate the way in which the laws of thought work in different circumstances, but Genesis is the foundation of it all.

Why do Hindus worships rocks?

Why do Hindus worships rocks? Once Vivekananda went to Noth India to meet a king. The king asked him, “why do you pray to rocks?”. Vivekananda ignored the question and looked at a huge photo on the wall and asked King about that photo. King proudly said “That's my great father who killed millions of people in the war and won the war. He is my Role-model”. Then vivekananda took a near by smaller object and threw at the photo. King got very angry and was about to hit Vivekananda. Vivekananda laughed and said, “Oh king, its just a paper with some painting framed with wood..how can that be your father?” King didn't understand. Vivekananda said, “just like that painting is your father for you, every rock, tree, river, mountain is God for us. We believe God is everywhere”. A country's flag is in reality, just a piece of cloth, but it means the entire country for us. We salute to that flag.

Tuesday, 26 August 2025

What are the hidden truths about Mahabharat?

What are the hidden truths about Mahabharat? Yudhishtir had another wife called Devika. Duryodhana’s wife Bhanumati was a devotee of Lord Krishna. During the war, Duryodhana accused Bhishma Pitamah as he was not fighting with his full strength as he had a soft corner for the Pandavas. Pitamah became angry and in his anger, he took out five gold arrows filled with mantras. He vowed that he would kill all the five Pandavas with these arrows. Still Duryodhana was not satisfied and took those five arrows with him and told Pitamah that he would give them next day when the war starts. Lord Krishna reminded Arjun that Duryodhana had promised him of boon and he should ask him for five golden arrows .When Arjun asked him of the arrows Duryodhana was shocked and asked him how did he know about those arrows then Arjun replied “Krishna”. Jayadratha was the brother-in-law of the Pandavas and the Kauravas as he was married to Dushala, the only Kaurava princess. One day Jayadratha saw Draupadi in forest and fell in love with her .He proposed her for marrying him but Draupadi refused. Then he forcefully took Draupadi with her toward his kingdom. When Pandavas came , on not finding their wife , Yudhistra ordered Bheem and Arjun to find her .When they came to know about this kidnapping, they overpowered him and wanted to kill him. But Draupati told them not to kill him as he was the husband of their cousin. So they made him slave by shaving his hair. Duryodhana’s real name was Suyodhana. Duryadhana did not participate in Draupadi’s swayamvar because he was already married to Kalinga princess Bhanumati and he promised that he would not marry another girl. Dhrishtadyumna was actually a reincarnation of Eklavya. Lord Krishna blessed Eklavya to reincarnate and take revenge on Dronacharya to honour his guru dakshina and his sacrifice. The blind king Dhritarashtra had taken his wife Gandhari's entire family as prisoners, and treated them very badly. Obviously, the family was not pleased with this treatment. King Subala (Gandhari's father) decided that everyone would sacrifice their share of food to strengthen one chosen member who will be the reason for Dhritarashtra's downfall. Shakuni, the youngest and smartest of the lot was chosen for this task. Bheema's grandson (Ghatotkacha's son), Barbarik was supposed to be a great warrior. By Lord Shiva's blessings, he had special arrows by which he could mark his enemies, mark the ones he wanted to save, and then destroy all his enemies respectively. Thanks to this, he could have ended the war in one minute flat. Krishna however, knew better than to let this happen. Because of an oath to his mother, Barbarik always fought for the weaker side. Krishna appeared to him as a Brahmana, and reasoned that whichever side he took would by default be stronger. That way he would have to keep changing parties till everyone got killed. Krishna then asked for his head in charity because the battlefield must be purified before battle by sacrificing the head of the bravest kshatriya. Barbarik obliged and became the greatest Kshatriya alive. That is how Krishna saved the Pandavas from losing the battle. Edit: More Facts Five thousand years ago, the Kurukshetra war, between the Pandavas and the Kauravas, was the mother of all battles. Nobody could remain neutral. You had to be either on the Kaurava side or the Pandava side. All the kings – hundreds of them – aligned themselves on one side or the other. The king of Udupi however chose to remain neutral. He spoke to Krishna and said, ‘Those who fight battles have to eat. I will be the caterer for this battle.’ Krishna said, ‘Fine. Somebody has to cook and serve so you do it.’ They say over 500,000 soldiers had gathered for the battle. The battle lasted 18 days, and every day, thousands were dying. So the Udupi king had to cook that much less food, otherwise it would go waste. Somehow the catering had to be managed. If he kept cooking for 500,000 people it wouldn’t work. Or if he cooked for less, soldiers would go hungry. The Udupi king managed it very well. The amazing thing was, every day, the food was exactly enough for all the soldiers and no food was wasted. After a few days, people were amazed, ‘How is he managing to cook the exact amount of food!’ No one could know how many people had died on any given day. By the time they could have taken account of these things, the next day morning would have dawned and again it was time to fight. There was no way the caterer could know how many thousands had died each day, but every day he cooked exactly the volume of food necessary for the rest of the armies. When someone asked him, ‘How do you manage this?’ the Udupi king replied, ‘Every night I go to Krishna’s tent. Krishna likes to eat boiled groundnuts in the night so I peel them and keep them in a bowl. He eats just a few peanuts, and after he is done I count how many he has eaten. If it’s 10 peanuts, I know tomorrow 10,000 people will be dead. So the next day when I cook lunch, I cook for 10,000 people less. Every day I count these peanuts and cook accordingly, and it turns out right.’ Now you know why Krishna is so nonchalant during the whole Kurukshetra war. Many of the Udupi people are caterers even today. 2. Fascinating Stories From Mahabharata Ep IX : Shakuni's revenge against the kuru dynasty 3. Fascinating Stories From Mahabharata: Karna's Last Test 4. 12 Commom characters from Ramayana and Mahabharata 5. Arjuna’s Chariot – the untold story

Monday, 25 August 2025

When the Kitchen Falls Silent…

*When the Kitchen Falls Silent…* Have you ever thought that cooking is not just a household chore? It is the invisible thread that binds families together. In the 1980s, when American homes began moving away from cooking and leaned more on takeout and restaurants, a few economists issued a warning: “If the state takes care of the children and the elderly, and private companies provide the food, then the very foundation of the family will weaken.” At the time, very few paid attention, but the statistics tell the story. In 1971, 71% of American households were traditional families — husband, wife, and children living together. Today, that number has shrunk to just 20%. Where did the rest go? Nursing homes, rented apartments, fragmented lives. Now 15% of women live alone, 12% of men remain isolated within families, 41% of children are born outside of marriage, and divorce rates stand at 50% in first marriages, 67% in second, and 74% in third. This collapse is not an accident. It is the hidden social cost of closing the kitchen. Why does a home-cooked meal matter? Because food at home is not just nutrition — it is love, bonding, and belonging. When families sit together around the table, hearts draw closer, children absorb wisdom from grandparents, and relationships soften and grow warmer. But when each person eats alone, scrolling on their device, the house becomes a guesthouse, and family ties resemble social media “friends”: formal, distant, temporary. The hidden cost of eating out is equally alarming... Inferior oils, artificial flavors, and fast-food addiction have created generations struggling with obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease — even among the young. Today, corporations decide what we should eat, while pharmaceutical companies profit from keeping us “healthy.” Our grandparents carried home-cooked food even on long journeys. Today, we sit at home; yet order from outside and call it convenience. It is not too late. We can rekindle the kitchen — not just the stove, but the warmth, protection, culture, and health that come with it. Because a bedroom makes a house, but a kitchen makes a family. Lessons from around the world prove this point. Japanese families still emphasize cooking and eating together, which is one reason their life expectancy is among the highest in the world. Mediterranean households view mealtimes as sacred rituals, and scientists link this to both stronger family ties and healthier lifestyles. Even in corporate leadership, “breaking bread together” remains a symbol of trust and bonding. The kitchen is not just where food is prepared. It is where relationships are nourished, traditions are carried forward, and families are held together. 💝

Europe Tour World Of Wonders Travels Pvt. Ltd. (WOW)

*Europe Tour* *World Of Wonders Travels Pvt. Ltd. (WOW)* We booked this tour through EaseMyTrip, while others booked via different portals such as Zenith, Paras, Akshara, and more. Interestingly, although we all came through different travel portals, we ultimately joined the same tour organised by World of Wonders Travels Pvt. Ltd., a company based in Mumbai. The group comprised 26 members in total. This was a 14-night, 15-day tour covering the UK (London), France (Paris), Belgium (Brussels), the Netherlands (Amsterdam), Switzerland (Jungfraujoch and Mount Titlis), Austria, and Italy (Venice, Florence, and Rome). The hotels were all reputed brands such as Radisson, Ramada, Novotel, Millennium and other similar 4-star properties. All meals were included: breakfast was served at the hotels, while lunch and dinner were arranged at Indian restaurants located near the major sightseeing points on the itinerary. Travel throughout the tour was by coach, except for the journey from London to Paris, which was by Eurostar train. From Paris onwards, the same coach was used until the end of the tour in Rome. We opted for the package without airfare from India and without visas, both of which we arranged separately in advance. However, the tour operator also offers packages that include airfare and visa assistance as part of the overall cost. One of the most convenient aspects of the tour was not having to worry about meals. Good quality Indian food — lunch and dinner — was provided daily, and breakfast was served at the hotels. However, since lunch was included, a considerable amount of time was spent travelling to and from restaurants with the group. In Padova, the accommodation was at the Blue Dream Hotel, which was disappointing. Complaints included air-conditioning not working and, more seriously, doors of some rooms not opening with the keys provided. The days spent in Italy were made more challenging by the scorching sun, with long walks in Venice, Florence, and Vatican City/Rome proving especially exhausting. The tour manager was highly knowledgeable, with over three decades of experience. His understanding of the history of the places and monuments we visited was exemplary, and he executed the itinerary with absolute precision. Overall, the tour was unforgettable, offering the opportunity to visit nine countries in just fifteen days — a truly enriching experience. The Mercedes coach was highly comfortable with smooth driving on the European highways. One piece of advice I would like to share with everyone: never fall prey to the claims made by tour booking platforms or agents that “seats are filling up fast.” These are often sales tactics designed to push prospective tourists into booking early. In reality, seats are rarely filled until the last minute. Always bargain hard with them. Regarding the cost, it would suffice to say that a premium tour with four-star hotels and all meals costs approximately INR 30,000 per person per day. Credit cards worked seamlessly everywhere — on buses in Colchester, London, and Edinburgh. They were also accepted on the London Underground, where you can simply tap and go. On one occasion, even a debit card worked without any issue. We had carried foreign currency for shopping, but even in most shops, cards were accepted. However, at some public toilets, only cash was accepted, though our tour guide took special care to ensure free facilities were available at suitable stops along the route. The approximate cost for this 14N/15D premium tour on a twin-sharing basis was INR 30000 per head per day that included all meals, 4-star accommodation, air fare and visa charges. All attractions like cruises, museums, London Eye, top of the mountains, Eiffel Tower top floor, Disney Land all rides unlimited, etc were included. One had to spend money only on personal expenses.

Some Laws that we didn't learn at school

🙏🏼 Good Morning 🌅 *Some Laws that we didn't learn at school* *1. LORENZ'S LAW OF MECHANICAL REPAIR.* Once your hands become coated with grease, your nose will begin to itch. *2. ANTHONY'S LAW OF THE WORKSHOP.* Any tool, when dropped, will roll to the least accessible corner. *3. KOVAC'S CONUNDRUM.* When you dial a wrong number, you never get an engaged tone. *4. CANNON'S KARMIC LAW.* If you tell the boss you were late for work because you had a flat tyre, the next morning you will have a flat tyre. *5.O'BRIEN'S VARIATION LAW.* If you change queues, the one you have left will start to move faster than the one you are in now. *6. BELL'S THEOREM.* When the body is immersed in water, the telephone rings. *7. RUBY'S PRINCIPLE OF CLOSE ENCOUNTERS.* The probability of meeting someone you know increases when you are with someone you don't want to be seen with. *8. WILLOUGHBY'S LAW.* When you try to prove to someone that a machine won't work, it will. *9. ZADRA'S LAW OF BIOMECHANICS.* The severity of the itch is inversely proportional to the reach. *10. BREDA'S RULE.* At any event, the people whose seats are farthest from the aisle arrive last. *11. OWEN'S LAW* As soon as you sit down to a cup of hot coffee, your boss will ask you to do something which will last until the coffee is cold. Please keenly observe such actions in your daily life and you may surprisingly find it true. Have a great day ☺️

Pure and Applied Knowledge*

Pure and Applied Knowledge* There are two types of knowledge- pure knowledge and applied knowledge. Applied knowledge may benefit you directly and immediately, but pure knowledge benefits you indirectly in the long run. If there are some things that you have studied or understood but are unable to put into practice, do not get disheartened. They will be of use to you sometime in the future. Often people discard pure knowledge for its lack of immediate application. In fact, these two types of knowledge complement each other. Applied knowledge without pure knowledge remains weak. And pure knowledge without application will remain unfulfilled. Do not discard or label the knowledge as impractical, and do not label yourself as weak or unworthy, because you are unable to apply the knowledge in your day-to-day life. Sometimes when you are alone in nature, quietly taking a walk, looking at the sand on the beach, a bird in the sky, or meditating – suddenly the knowledge will emerge and you will recognise the knowledge dawning in your life.

Why didn't Bhishma kill Kansa if he was powerful in reality?

Why didn't Bhishma kill Kansa if he was powerful in reality? Do you think Kamsa was some nobody that Bhishma could just invade and kill him ? Kamsa was extremely powerful and had defeated Indra and the Devas in battle. Description of Kamsa’s strength from Harivamsa - O lord of the world, having slain the army of Jarasandha and vanquished the other enemies in battle why hast you met with death at the hands of an ordinary man? Alas! Fighting with Indra in a combat of arrows you were not defeated by the immortals. How hast you been then slain by a mortal? Having agitated, with a shower of arrows, the ocean that is incapable of being moved you didst conquer Varuna the holder of the noose, and take away all his riches. When Vasava did not pour profuse showers, you didst, for the citizens, bore through the clouds with your arrows and bring down rain by force. By your prowess all kings were humiliated and used to send you the precious jewels and clothes. Chapter 31, Vishnu parva, Harivamsa. 2. Vishnu Purana says that Kamsa defeated the Devas including Indra - I scorn the Ādityas, accompanied by the timid Vasus. I scorn the Agnis and all the other deities defeated by my mighty arms. Did I not see Indra, king of gods, retreating from the battlefield with arrows in his back? He couldn’t take them on the chest. When Indra stopped the rains from falling on my kingdom, did not the clouds, split asunder by my missiles, release their showers, just as I desired? Chapter 4, Book 5, Vishnu Purana. 3. Srimad Bhagavatam also says that Kamsa defeated the Devas - What can the gods do with all their endeavours. They are cowards on the battlefield. They live in perpetual terror of the twanging of your bow-string. Being beaten on all sides with volleys of arrows discharged by you, they, being anxious to save their lives, deserted the battlefield and took to their heels. Some gods in their wretched plight laid down their arms and stood with folded palms, while others with their loincloth untucked and hair on the head untied and dishevelled announced, “We are afraid.” Chapter 4, 10th Skandha, Srimad Bhagavatam. 4. Garga Samhita has an elaborate description of Kamsa’s battle with Indra - With a hard punch Kaṃsa struck the great elephant and with a second punch he struck Indra in that battleground. With that punch Indra fell far away and the elephant was wounded and fell, its knees touching the ground. Again standing, the king of elephants attacked the demon-king Kaṃsa with its tusks, picked him up with its trunk, and threw him eight-hundred thousand miles. His body hard as a thunderbolt, when he fell he was only a little upset in his heart. Angry, and his lips trembling, he returned to the battleground. Kaṃsa grabbed the elephant-king Airāvata, threw him onto the battleground, strangled its trunk, and broke its tusks into pieces. Knocking over many great heroes, the elephant Airāvata fled the battleground and went to the capitol of the demigods. Taking the bow of Lord Viṣṇu and stringing it, with a flood of arrows accompanied by the twanging sound of the bow, the demon-king Kaṃsa made the demigods flee. Chapter 7, Goloka Khanda, Garga Samhita. So Kamsa was an extremely powerful ruler. He was also aided by powerful Asuras. Bhishma probably don't want to risk a battle with Such a powerful king. Only Lord Krishna could have killed Kamsa easily.

Mahabharata says Nakula was most handsome among Pandavas. Since Nakula and Sahadeva are twins how is it possible that Nakula was most handsome among Pandavas?

Mahabharata says Nakula was most handsome among Pandavas. Since Nakula and Sahadeva are twins how is it possible that Nakula was most handsome among Pandavas? There was a time when women were free to go to any man they pleased. When sage Shvetaketu saw his father Uddalaka, unfazed by his mother’s association with other sages, he introduced the law of marriage so that women were bound to their husbands, enabling all men to know who their father was. They could only have children by their husbands and if their husbands were unable to give them children, they could go to other men, chosen by their husbands. The children borne by the wife however belonged to the husband, whether he fathered the son or not. When Pandu realized he could never father kings, he decided to take advantage of this rule. It was thenKunti told him about the magic formula by which she could call upon any sky-god and have a child with him instantly. This was granted to her by Rishi Durvasa who was pleased with her devotion and service to him when had visited her father’s house when she was young. Pleased with Kunti’ssolution Pandu tells Kunti to first invoke Yama, the lord of dharma. Kunti’schild with him was Yudhishtira. Later Pandu asks Kunti to invoke Vayu, the god of wind. The second child is named Bhima, strongest of men. Kunti then called upon Indra, king of Devas and had a son called Arjuna. After the birth ofArjuna,Kunti refused to invoke another god since she feared being called a whore(Pandu thought about the four men Kunti was referring to including himself, while Kunti thought about the four sky-gods) Pandu then suggested to invoke a Deva for Madri, Pandu’s second wife so that she could be a mother too and Pandu would get more sons. Kunti obeyed and Madri invoked the Ashwini twins. Instantly the two gods, lords of the morning and evening star appeared and gaveMadri twin sons, Nakula, the handsomest man in the world and Sahadeva, the most knowledgeable man in the world. I don’t know if my reasoning is valid but then like Jai Parimi's answer, they could be dizygotic twins. Also I think another reason why one son was the handsomest and the other was the most smartest could have something to do with the Ashwini twins their mother invoked(one of them was the lord of morning star and the other was lord of evening star) One more interesting story I’d like to add is when Pandu dies and his body was being cremated,Sahadeva noticed ants carrying a tiny piece of his father’s body. He put that piece in his mouth and instantly knew everything about the world – past and future. He ran to tell his mother and brothers but was stopped by a stranger who asked him whether he liked God to be his friend. Sahadeva agreed but on the condition put by the stranger that he should never tell anyone voluntarily what he knows and that when a question is asked he should reply with a question. The stranger was none other than Lord Krishna. So Sahadeva had no choice but to keep quiet, knowing all but never being able to tell people what he knew. He realized the future that he knew could be deciphered if one observed nature carefully. And so he put together various sciences that helped man predict future. In certain parts of South India, Sahadeva is renowned as the master of astrology, face reading and all other forms of divination. Source: 1. Jaya. 2. Bhagvad Kathas and Bhagwadham/Bhagwad Sapthams in temples.

What do you See?

*What do you See?* One day a professor entered the class room and asked the students to prepare for a surprise test. The professor handed out the exams with the text facing down as usual. He then asked the students to turn over the paper. To everyone's surprise, there were no questions -- just a black dot in the centre of the sheet of paper. The professor, seeing the expression on everyone's faces, told them, "I want you to write about what you see there." The students, confused, got started on the inexplicable task. At the end of the class, the professor took all the exam papers, and started reading each one of them loud, in front of all students. All of them with no exception defined the black dot, trying to explain its position in the centre of the sheet. After all had been read, the classroom silent, the professor started to explain, "I am not going to grade you on this, I just wanted to give you something to think about.” No one wrote about the WHITE part of the paper. Everyone focused on the black dot & the same happens in our lives. We have a generous white piece of paper to observe & enjoy, but we always focus on the dark spots. Our Life is a gift given to us by God, we always have a reason to celebrate. The love of our Family & friends, Our good Health, The work that provides us our livelihood, The small miracles that we see everyday, An abundance of good fortune, Many blessings & so much more. However, we insist on focusing only on the dark spots. The minor health issues that bother us, The lack of money for some purpose which we today feel is very important, The complicated relationship with a family member, The disappointment with a friend and other such matters. The dark spots are very small when compared to everything we have in ourselves, but they are the ones that pollute our mind. Take your eyes away from the black dots in your life. Enjoy each one of your blessings, each moment that life gives you. Be happy, live a life filled with love & stay blessed forever!

Dearest PK

Dearest PK Experience teaches us to manage expectations. Every morning is a fresh start. Wake up with a thankful heart. Do things for people not because of who they are or what they do in return, but because of who you are. To make a difference in someone's life you don't have to be brilliant, rich, beautiful or perfect. You just have to care. Don't plan too much, life has its own plans for you. Always remember that some of the most beautiful moments of your life are actually unplanned. There is a big difference between being liked and being valued. Plenty of people will like you but not many will truly value you. Always choose to be valued.

When the Kitchen Falls Silent…

points to ponder

A lovely forward. Couldn't resist sharing. Compiler unknown!!!! 💫 *points to ponder* 🤔 1) When the axe came to the forest, the trees said the handle was one of us. Until they felt its cuts:. BETRAYAL IS within. 2) When a kid grows up, a pencil is replaced by a pen just to make the kid realize that now it is not easy to erase the mistake. 3) If loyalty was real, water is not supposed to cook the fish. 4) How I wish RIP means Return If Possible. 5) One sad truth about life is that you may not even be part of the future you’re stressed about. 6) The day you lose your father is the day you will realize that you have lost the only man who wanted to see you better than him. 7) The sheep lived all her life, fearing the wolf, but it was the shepherd that finally ate it. 8) When we were kids, we cried loudly to be noticed. But now we cry silently because we don’t want anyone to know. 9) My mom always said, "don’t talk while eating." I never knew she was talking about life. 10) Just because you’re a good person, doesn’t mean the world owes you kindness. 11) When the blind man sees, he throws away the stick that has been helping him for years. 12) *Nowadays, you MAY need money to become a member of your own family.* 13) FAMILY is like a FOREST from a distance. They are all close until you get closer to see how SEPARATED trees are !

Why was Narayani Sena punished in the Mahabharata War? What wrong did they do on their part which caused their end?

Why was Narayani Sena punished in the Mahabharata War? What wrong did they do on their part which caused their end? Army of Indraprasth was personally trained by Arjuna with great commitment. That army became a part of world conquest for Rajasuya sacrifice. Then dice game happened where Duryodhana won Indraprasth and sent Pandavas on exile. After thirteen years Duryodhana’s obstinacy and foolishness paved way to Kurukshetra war. Indraprasth army which was loyal to Pandavas have to fight against them and die for no fault of them. Coming to Narayani Sena,it was the decision of Narayana himself to make them fight against him and get killed mostly by Arjuna. One akshouhini Narayani Sena along with Kritavarma’s one akshouhini army fought for Kauravas. Krishna willed it and let it happen because the purpose of his incarnation itself is to relieve the burden of the earth. Ultimately Narayan himself drove the chariot to get his Narayani Sena killed by Parth. In Sanjaya’s words There were those who were reared in Gokula. They were extremely well versed in fighting. Many thousands of them arrayed themselves as masses of samshaptakas. All of them approached Partha and went to Vaivasvata’s eternal abode.22 Ch 4 Karna parva Bori critical Edition Like soldiers of Indraprasth fought against Pandavas,Narayani Sena fought against Krishna . Soldiers in those times didn’t have the free will to fight for whomever they chose. Purpose for Kurukshetra war was different though looked like a dispute between cousins for kingdom. It was the divine plan initiated by Trinity ,Indra and other gods to relieve the burden of earth. So Narayani Sena fighting against Krishna can’t be taken as punishment. My answer is based on story of Vyasa Bharat

Sundar khand,

🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏 Sundar khand, 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏 Sundar khand, Many of you are aware of the benefits of chanting or reading The Sunderkhand. However, most of us don't do it regularly as very often lack of time is the reason cited. And even if people find the time, they may be unable to read it with a proper intonation or if they manage to they lack the concentration on the actual essence. Here's a simple version of Sunderkhand. Ram Ram Jai Ram Ram Jai Ram Ram Peaceful, Compassionate, Sinless, One who has been served by Brahma and Shambhu, one who is seen in the human form by Maya, Hey Raghuvar I salute you. You are my Antaratma. Liberate me Oh Prabhu, instill Bhakti in me. Hanuman the epitome of strength, knowledge and wisdom on behest of Jambavanth set out to cross The Mighty Ocean in search of Seetha. He accepted the challenge of Sirsa and won over her. He reached Lanka in the still of the night. He could hear a voice singing the praises of Lord Rama. He had the darshan of Seetha and presented Her with Lord Ram's ring. Bowing at Her feet He sought Her Blessings. He created havoc in the Vatika by devouring the fruits, breaking the branches, shaking the trees and willingly became a captive of the Asuras, to be presented to Ravana. He tried driving sense into Ravana and asked him to seek Lord Ram's forgiveness. The egoistic Ravan did not concede. Instead he set Hanuman's tail on fire. The latter in turn set out to destroy the golden city of Lanka. He took the Chudamani from Sita ,comforted Her. He presented it to Lord Ram. An emotional Ram embraced Him and asked Him how did he accomplish the task. Hanumanji humbly replied that nothing is impossible if one is granted Bhakti by Lord Ram. Lord Ram asked Sugreev to get his army ready and seek the permission of The Ocean to cross it and reach Lanka. Mandodari warned Ravan of the dire consequences of holding Sita captive. She implored him to set Her free, but in vain. Ravan who got the news about Lord Rama's strategy, called his council of ministers. His brother Vibheeshan tried to reason with him. He warned him that even Lord Shiva will not help him nor appreciate his henious act of abducting Sita. All this fell on deaf ears. A helpless Vibheeshan left Lanka and sought refuge at Lord Rama's feet. The Lord recognised the virtuous Vibheeshan and crowned him as Lanka pati. Ravan's messengers who were sent in disguise to know about Ram's plans returned to Lanka and apprised him of the happenings . They implored him to release Sita and seek Ram's forgiveness, but the foolhardy Ravan did not relent. Lord Ram with Nal and Neel's help got the Setu bridge constructed. He released river Sarayu from its curse and set out to Lanka. Thus is The Sundar khand written by Tulsi Das. Ram Ram Jai Ram Ram Jai Hanuman

*Rajdeep Sardesai asked Sonam Wangchuk in an interview,

*Rajdeep Sardesai asked Sonam Wangchuk in an interview,* "*Is it possible for us to survive in the global market without foreign products?" Sonam Wangchuk replied "Look at the Jain community in India, they are less than 5 million. They never eat non-veg, garlic, onion, tubers etc., if they do not get pure vegetarian food, they prefer to remain hungry. Despite such a small population, every small and big restaurant and airline in the world prepares Jain food for them, because despite being small, they are important for the economy. If 5 million Jains can change the economy, then why can't 140 crore Indians change the entire country? The only thing, they lack is a strong will...!"*

When the Kitchen Falls Silent…

THE GIFT OF BONDING

Good Morning!!! God grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change; Courage to change the things I can; and Wisdom to know the difference. Thy will, not mine, be done. *~*~*~*~*^Daily Reflections^*~ *~*~*~* August 25, 2025 THE GIFT OF BONDING Relieve me of the bondage of self, that I may better do Thy will. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 63 Many times, in my alcoholic state, I drank to establish a bond between myself and others, but I succeeded only in establishing the bondage of alcoholic loneliness. Through the A.A. way of life, I have received the gift of bonding – with those who were there before me, with those who are there now, and with those yet to come. For this gracious gift from God, I am forever grateful. ********************************************** Money – Before and After In our drinking time, we acted as if the money supply were inexhaustible, though between binges we'd sometimes go to the other extreme and become miserly. Without realizing it, we were just accumulating funds for the next spree. Money was the symbol of pleasure and self-importance. As our drinking became worse, money was only an urgent requirement which could supply us with the next drink and the temporary comfort of oblivion it brought. Although financial recovery is on the way for many of us, we find we cannot place money first. For us, material well-being always follows spiritual progress; it never precedes. 1. TWELVE AND TWELVE, P.120 2. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, P. 127 *********************************************** CONFIDENCE “There is no sort of work that could ever be done well if you minded what fools say.” – George Eliot Part of the risk in my recovery is arousing the displeasure of others. I know that I cannot please all the people — and yet my disease tells me that I must! For years I missed life’s opportunities because I listened to negative and frightened people. Today I choose to shout my “yes” to life, and I ignore the fools. The fools are rarely friends. Rather, they seek to keep me in the same prison as themselves. If they truly loved me, they would encourage me to be imaginative and creative. Today I have a joyride “letting go and letting God” because God is a great risk-taker! I pray that I may always listen to the advice of others, but never miss my power of decision. ******* Grapevine quote of the day "Great modesty and humility are needed by every AA for his own permanent recovery. If these virtues are such vital needs to the individual, so, must they be to AA as a whole." AA Co-Founder, Bill W., March 1946 "Our Anonymity Is Both Inspiration and Safety" The Language of the Heart

These fit so well they should be in a dictionary.

These fit so well they should be in a dictionary. ADULT A person who has stopped growing at both ends And is now growing in the middle. BEAUTY PARLOR A place where women curl up and dye. CHICKENS The only animals you eat before they are born and after they are dead. COMMITTEE A body that keeps minutes and wastes hours. DUST Mud with the juice squeezed out. EGOTIST Someone who is usually me-deep in conversation. HANDKERCHIEF Cold Storage. INFLATION Cutting money in half without damaging the paper. MOSQUITO An insect that makes you like flies better. RAISIN A grape with a sunburn. SECRET Something you tell to one person at a time. SKELETON A bunch of bones with the person scraped off. TOOTHACHE The pain that drives you to extraction. TOMORROW One of the greatest labor saving devices of today. YAWN An honest opinion openly expressed. And MY Personal Favorite!! WRINKLES Something other people have, Similar to my character lines.

Why was Abhimanyu killed so mercilessly? Wasn't Karna or Dronacharya capable of defeating Abhimanyu single-handedly? Karna was as skilled as Arjuna, which puts him in the front foot against Abhimanyu.

Why was Abhimanyu killed so mercilessly? Wasn't Karna or Dronacharya capable of defeating Abhimanyu single-handedly? Karna was as skilled as Arjuna, which puts him in the front foot against Abhimanyu. Karna was not capable of defeating Abhimanyu in a one on one duel. He tried attacking Abhimanyu many times and was beaten back every single time. Karna himself admitted to Drona that Abhimanyu is too strong for him to handle At this, oppressed by the arrows of Arjuna's son, Karna again spoke to Drona. "I am oppressed by the extremely terrible and energetic arrows of the young Abhimanyu. Nevertheless, I remain stationed here. His arrows are terrible and possess the energy of the fire. They are sapping my heart now." 47, Abhimanyu Vadha parva, Mahabharata. Drona then adviced the Kaurava warriors to destroy all of Abhimanyu’s equipments at the same time. So Karna, Kritavarma and Kripa struck him together destroying his bow, Charioteer and horses Having heard the preceptor's words, Vaikartana Karna used his arrows to swiftly slice down the bow of the lighthanded one. Bhoja killed his horses and Goutama the charioteers who guarded his flanks. Once his bow had been severed, the others enveloped him with a shower of arrows. 47, Abhimanyu Vadha parva, Mahabharata. Abhimanyu then picked up a sword and shield but Drona and Karna sliced them down. Abhimanyu then picked up a chariot wheel but the Kuru warriors struck it down as well. Finally Abhimanyu fought with a mace and was atlast killed by Duhshasana’s son. Drona might have been capable of killing Abhimanyu himself after a long and difficult duel. But he would be soft on the son of his favourite student. The other Kurus were incapable of defeating Abhimanyu by themselves. That is why Drona said that as long as Abhimanyu had his bow, he was invincible If he wields the bow, the gods and the asuras are incapable of vanquishing him. If you so wish, deprive him of his chariot and his bow." 47, Abhimanyu Vadha parva, Mahabharata. Shakuni and Karna expressed a similar fear that Abhimanyu alone would slay the entire Kuru army Soubala pierced him back with three arrows and spoke to Duryodhana. "Let us unite and grind him down. Otherwise, he will kill all of us single-handed." Vrisha Vaikartana Karna then spoke to Drona. "Before he destroys all of us, tell us how we can swiftly kill him."

GIVING IT AWAY

Mon 25 Aug, 23:05 (12 hours ago) to Good Morning!!! God grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change; Courage to change the things I can; and Wisdom to know the difference. Thy will, not mine, be done. *~*~*~*~*^Daily Reflections^*~ *~*~*~* August 26, 2025 GIVING IT AWAY Though they knew they must help other alcoholics if they would remain sober, that motive became secondary. It was transcended by the happiness they found in giving themselves to others. Alcoholics Anonymous, p.159 Those words, for me, refer to a transference of power, through which God, as I understand Him, enters my life. Through prayer and meditation, I open channels, then I establish and improve my conscious contact with God. Through action I then receive the power I need to maintain my sobriety each day. By maintaining my spiritual condition, by giving away what has been freely given to me, I am granted a daily reprieve. ********************************************* Rebellion or Acceptance All of us pass through times when we can pray only with the greatest exertion. Occasionally we go even further than this. We are seized with a rebellion so sickening that we simply won't pray. When these things happen, we should not think too ill of ourselves. We should simply resume prayer as soon as we can, doing what we know to be good for us. A man who persists in prayer finds himself in possession of great gifts. When he has to deal with hard circumstances, he finds he can face them. He can accept himself and the world around him. He can do this because he now accepts a God who is All – and who loves all. When he says, "Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name," he deeply and humbly means it. When in good meditation and thus, freed from the clamors of the world, he knows that he is in God's hands, that his own ultimate destiny is really secure, here and hereafter, come what may. 1. TWELVE AND TWELVE, p. 105 2. GRAPEVINE, JUNE 1958

THE FOUR HORSEMEN

Mon 25 Aug, 23:06 (12 hours ago) to Good Morning!!! THE FOUR HORSEMEN Around the Year with Emmet Fox August 26 Read Revelation 6. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse give the key to the nature of man as we know him. When you understand these symbols thoroughly you will understand your own makeup, and you will be able to begin the work of getting dominion over yourself and your surroundings. The Bible is not written in the style of a modem book. It has a method of its own of conveying knowledge through picturesque symbols, the reason being that this is the only possible way in which knowledge could be given to people in all ages in different parts of the world and of different degrees of spiritual development. A symbol, appeals to any audience, each individual getting just what he is ready for. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse stand for the four parts or elements of our human nature. There is, first of all, the physical body— the thing that you see when you look into the glass. Then there is your feeling nature or emotions, and although you cannot "see" your feelings, you are tremendously conscious of them. Third, there is your intellect, which contains every bit of knowledge that you possess. Finally, there is your spiritual nature, your real eternal self; the true you, the I AM, the Indwelling Christ. This is your real identity, which is eternal. Almost everyone believes in its existence, but most people are very little conscious of it as an actuality. Ultimately the time will come when the first three will be merged in the fourth, and then we shall all know instead of only believing that the spiritual nature is all. “And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart” Jeremiah 29:13

Caves of Central and South India

https://epaper.thedailyguardian.com/view/2885/the-daily-guardian/15

Incredible Story Of Telugu Language

https://telanganatrends.com/the-story-of-the-telugu-language

Incredible Telengana

https://telanganatrends.com/incredible-telangana-a-land-of-heritage-culture-and-modern-vibrancy

Tuesday, 19 August 2025

We always attract people by the quality we display, but we always retain people by the quality we possess.

We always attract people by the quality we display, but we always retain people by the quality we possess. A team is not a group of people working together. It is a group of people who trust, respect and support each other. When you take care of yourself, you feel better. When you feel better, you look better. When you look better, good things come your way. It all starts with you. As long as you feel pain, you're still alive. As long as you make mistakes, you're still human. As long as you keep trying, there's still hope. Distance yourself from the people who bring out the stress in you, and move closer to those who bring out the best in you. When you fully trust someone without any doubt, you finally get one of the two results: A person for life or a lesson for life.

Why did Ram kill Bali in hiding when he could have defeated him in battle?

Why did Ram kill Bali in hiding when he could have defeated him in battle? I read that Bali asked Ram that being a man of morals, why did he kill him by hiding behind a bush. To which Ram answered - Always remember, in a battle both the parties have to play by the same rules. If one party is using foul play and breaking rules and you are playing by rules then you will certainly be at a disadvantage. Bali committed a crime by throwing out his brother Sugreev and not letting his wife go with her husband. Thus fighting an immoral being by standard rules would had been an injustice to justice itself. Hence, I played by the rules of Bali and defeated him to bring justice, release wife of Sugreev and give the kingdom to Bali’s dharmic brother Sugreev. [ But, being a man of morals, Ram told Bali that he will reincarnate as Jara, a hunter in his next life and will be the reason for Ram’s death in his next life as Krishna. Hence, Jara shoots a poisonous arrow from behind a bush to hunt, thinking Krishna’s foot as deer eye. Jara knowing Krishna being God himself, profusely apologized to which Krishna reminded him of his previous birth as Bali and his promise to Bali as Ram. Krishna told Jara should not grieve as it is pre-destined and Krishna’s time over Earth is complete and is time to go back to Vaikuntha, so Jara need not feel guilty. ] It was an eye opener and one of the most important morals of my life - We are told to be nice to people who are bad to us, why - because it is manners. Gandhi saying turn your other cheek forward to get slapped - these are all stupid teachings and we should not teach these to people. No doubt, invaders took advantage for 800 years of innocent, dharma following countrymen by lies and deceit and violence. Always know the strengths and weaknesses of your opponent and whether he is breaking rules of humanity and basic trust or not. If he is fighting by rules, you can easily stick to your principles and fight by rules. But, if opponent is breaking rules or using bribery/violence/deciet/lies to win, you should also break rules to save yourself. In today’s everyday context, it is crucial that we apply it at work - with boss and shrewd colleagues, with bad friends, relationships, etc. Hence, always remember your history - Prithvi Raj Chauhan defeated Mohmd. Ghazni 17 TIMES!!! Always defeated him but spared his life due to his pleas, similar to being Prithvi’s sharanagathi (seeking protection from Prithvi). Ghazni came back the 18th time and killed Prithvi Raj Chauhan at the first opportunity he got. Ratan Singh-Khilji now everyone knows thanks to Padmavati Britishers used lies/deceit/bribery/broke treaties/massacred/genocides to rule for 2 centuries. Today, same thing is used in every workplace, areas where people compete for work/money/promotion Hence, ALWAYS remember your culture and religious history - they are goldmines of great teachings - Rama mentioned above and Krishna who tells Arjun to break dharma when the Kauravs are breaking it every moment. 28.2K views View 136 upvotes View 2 shares

Overcoming Grief

https://www.dailypioneer.com/2025/columnists/overcoming-grief.html

Excellent information about Bhagwan Shri Krishna

Excellent information about Bhagwan Shri Krishna 1) Krishna was born *5252 years ago* 2) Date of *Birth* : *18 th July,3228 B.C* 3) Month : *Shravan* 4) Day : *Ashtami* 5) Nakshatra : *Rohini* 6) Day : *Wednesday* 7) Time : *00:00 A.M.* 8) Shri Krishna *lived 125 years, 08 months & 07 days.* 9) Date of *Sharir Tyag* : *18th February 3102BC.* 10) When Krishna was *89 years old* ; the mega war *(Kurukshetra war)* took place. 11) He died *36 years after the Kurukshetra* war. 12) Kurukshetra War was *started on Mrigashira Shukla Ekadashi, BC 3139. i.e "8th December 3139BC" and ended on "25th December, 3139BC".* 12) There was a *Solar eclipse between "3p.m to 5p.m on 21st December, 3139BC" ; cause of Jayadrath's death.* 13) Bhishma died on *2nd February,(First Ekadasi of the Uttarayana), in 3138 B.C.* 14) Krishna is worshipped as: (a)Krishna *Kanhaiyya* : *Mathura* (b) *Jagannath*:- In *Odisha* (c) *Vithoba*:- In *Maharashtra* (d) *Srinath*: In *Rajasthan* (e) *Dwarakadheesh*: In *Gujarat* (f) *Ranchhod*: In *Gujarat* (g) *Krishna* : *Udupi in Karnataka* h) *Guruvayurappan in Kerala* 15) *Bilological Father*: *Vasudeva* 16) *Biological Mother*: *Devaki* 17) *Adopted Father*:- *Nanda* 18) *Adopted Mother*: *Yashoda* 19 *Elder Brother*: *Balaram* 20) *Sister*: *Subhadra* 21) *Birth Place*: *Mathura* 22) *Wives*: *Rukmini, Satyabhama, Jambavati, Kalindi, Mitravinda, Nagnajiti, Bhadra, Lakshmana* 23) Krishna is reported to have *Killed only 4 people* in his life time. (i) *Chanoora* ; the Wrestler (ii) *Kansa* ; his maternal uncle (iii) & (iv) *Shishupaala and Dantavakra* ; his cousins. 24) Life was not fair to him at all. His *mother* was from *Ugra clan*, and *Father* from *Yadava clan,* inter-racial marriage. 25) He was *born dark skinned.* He was not named at all throughout his life. The whole village of Gokul started calling him the black one ; *Kanha*. He was ridiculed and teased for being black, short and adopted too. His childhood was wrought with life threatening situations. 26) *'Drought' and "threat of wild wolves" made them shift from 'Gokul' to 'Vrindavan' at the age 9.* 27) He stayed in Vrindavan *till 10 years and 8 months*. He killed his own uncle at the age of 10 years and 8 months at Mathura.He then released his biological mother and father. 28) He *never returned to Vrindavan ever again.* 29) He had to *migrate to Dwaraka from Mathura due to threat of a Sindhu King ; Kala Yaavana.* 30) He *defeated 'Jarasandha' with the help of 'Vainatheya' Tribes on Gomantaka hill (now Goa).* 31) He *rebuilt Dwaraka*. 32) He then *left to Sandipani's Ashram in Ujjain* to start his schooling at age 16~18. 33) He had to *fight the pirates from Afrika and rescue his teachers son ; Punardatta*; who *was kidnapped near Prabhasa* ; a sea port in Gujarat. 34) After his education, he came to know about his cousins fate of Vanvas. He came to their rescue in ''Wax house'' and later his cousins got married to *Draupadi.* His role was immense in this saga. 35) Then, he helped his cousins establish Indraprastha and their Kingdom. 36) He *saved Draupadi from embarrassment.* 37) He *stood by his cousins during their exile.* 38) He stood by them and *made them win the Kurushetra war.* 39) He *saw his cherished city, Dwaraka washed away.* 40) He was *killed by a hunter (Jara by name)* in nearby forest. 41) He never did any miracles. His life was not a successful one. There was not a single moment when he was at peace throughout his life. At every turn, he had challenges and even more bigger challenges. 42) He *faced everything and everyone with a sense of responsibility and yet remained unattached.* 43) He is the *only person, who knew the past and future ; yet he lived at that present moment always.* 44) He and his life is truly *an example for every human being.*🌷🙏🏻 *Happy Janamastmi*🙏

Love in the time of Gabbar: A real-life romance born on Sholay set; neither Dharmendra-Hema Malini, nor Amitabh Bachchan-Jaya Bahaduri

*Love in the time of Gabbar: A real-life romance born on Sholay set; neither Dharmendra-Hema Malini, nor Amitabh Bachchan-Jaya Bahaduri* https://www.google.com/amp/s/indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/love-in-the-time-of-gabbar-a-real-life-romance-born-on-sholay-set-neither-dharmendra-hema-malini-nor-amitabh-bachchan-jaya-bahaduri-10188510/lite/ Written by Jyothi Jha New Delhi | Updated: August 15, 2025 08:45 IST _Tucked away in the dusty lanes of Ramanagara — the rocky hamlet transformed into the fictional Ramgarh in Sholay — lies another love story. One that never made it to the silver screen, yet bloomed right alongside the making of this cinematic giant._ Whenever we speak of Sholay, the conversations usually orbit around the cinematic grandeur of Ramesh Sippy’s vision, the sheer grit it took to bring the film to life, or the now-legendary fact that it was declared a flop in its first three days before becoming one of Indian cinema’s greatest blockbusters. We recall the wit of Salim–Javed, who predicted the film’s longevity with uncanny accuracy. We retell the on-set gossip — Sanjeev Kumar’s heartbreak over losing Hema Malini to Dharmendra, Dharmendra and Hema’s blooming romance, and the quiet love between Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bhaduri. But tucked away in the dusty lanes of Ramanagara — the rocky hamlet transformed into the fictional Ramgarh — lies another love story. One that never made it to the silver screen, yet bloomed right alongside the making of this cinematic giant. Ramanagara itself has a history. Before it became synonymous with Sholay, it had been renamed several times, carrying with it the memories of changing rulers and eras. When the film crew from Mumbai arrived in the early 1970s, they travelled in bullock carts, surveying the land for the perfect setting. Over the next two years, they built not just sets but a world — one where villagers and film folk mingled, where Bollywood’s magic seeped into everyday life. And in that mingling, two lives quietly intertwined. Shankar Gowda, a young man from Karnataka’s Humnabad, was part of the Sholay crew. His responsibility was to manage the set and the resources that kept the sprawling production alive. Shantha Gowda was a local schoolgirl, curious about the constant bustle, the strangers from Mumbai, and the magic of a film shoot. She would come by to watch, never imagining that these visits would change the course of her life. Shankar noticed her. Conversations began and affection followed. Soon, they both knew they wanted to marry — but like in Sholay, where Veeru couldn’t win Basanti without Mausi’s blessing, Shankar couldn’t take Shantha’s hand without her mother’s consent. “I was studying at that time when I met Shankar. We developed feelings for each other. He proposed to me, but how could we take any decision without the permission of our parents? So I told Shankar to come home and speak to my mother. And he did.” One day, Shankar arrived at Shantha’s home with a couple of his friends from the crew. Polite, respectful, and earnest, he asked her mother for her hand. Like any traditional matriarch (or Sholay’s Mausi), she had questions — about his family, his background, job stability. Learning that he too was from Karnataka and held steady work, she agreed. And so, in a poetic twist of fate, they built a mandapa for their wedding right there — on the Sholay set. In the shadow of the rocky hills and in the presence of villagers and crew, Shankar and Shantha tied the knot. “Our marriage was more like love-cum-arranged marriage. I completed my SSLC (10th grade). I must have been 16 when I got married. Shankar was 20 at that time. Even after our marriage, we stayed in Ramanagara for 2 years. Later, due to his work in the film line, we moved to Mumbai and now it has been over 40 years since we have been living here,” recalled Shantha. Over the decades, the couple’s love weathered everything life threw at them. They raised five children — three daughters and two sons — all of whom are now married, giving them a bustling family of over 20, with grandchildren in school. “They are all married today. I even have grandchildren now. We are now a family of over 20 people. My grandsons are in 12th and 8th grade”, she exclaimed. But their journey wasn’t without hardship. Years ago, Shankar suffered paralysis, forcing him to leave work. “It was a hard time,” Shantha admits. “But with medication, he slowly began to walk again. Today, we are just grateful to see him up and moving. We’re old now… life has slowed, but we are together.” Every year, they return to Ramanagara with the entire family, staying at Shantha’s late mother’s home. “My mother is gone, but her house still stands. We go, we stay, we remember.” As we spoke, we asked her if she has photographs from the wedding — the moment when two real lives merged on a fictional set. She sighed. “We had them… but they were at my mother’s house, and over time, they were lost or misplaced. I do have a picture of Shankar from his Sholay days, though. The wedding pictures… maybe they’re still somewhere in Ramanagara.” Some love stories are captured in frames. Others live in memory. While Sholay gave us Jai, Veeru, Basanti, and Gabbar… in the hills of Ramanagara, it also gave us Shankar and Shantha.

Must read and be inspired ✨

🙏🏼Jai Hind 🇮🇳 Must read and be inspired ✨ Japan, a nation decimated by two nuclear bombs, didn't beg for sympathy or aid. It rebuilt itself with pride and an unshakeable sense of self-respect. In the years since, it has never once stretched out a hand to America for alms. An Indian man living in Japan for over a year noticed something strange. Though the people were polite and helpful, no one ever invited him into their home, not even for a cup of tea. Perplexed and hurt, he finally asked a Japanese acquaintance why. After a long pause, the friend replied, "We are taught Indian history... not for inspiration, but as a warning." Confused, the Indian man asked, "A warning?" "Tell me," the Japanese friend continued, "how many British ruled India?" The Indian man thought, "Perhaps... around 10,000?" The Japanese man nodded grimly. "And how many Indians lived there? Over 300 million, right?" "Then who oppressed your people? Who carried out the orders to whip, torture, and shoot them?" he pressed. "When General Dyer gave the command 'Fire!' at Jallianwala Bagh, who pulled the trigger? The soldiers weren't British; they were Indian." "Not one turned their rifle on the tyrant. Not one," he said. "You want to talk about slavery? That was your real slavery. Not of the body, but of the soul." The Indian man stood frozen, silent, and ashamed. The Japanese friend went on, "How many Mughals came from Central Asia? A few thousand maybe? And yet they ruled you for centuries. They built empires not with their numbers, but because your own people bowed their heads and offered their loyalty in exchange for survival... or silver." "Your own people converted. Your own brothers became instruments of their oppression. Your own men handed over your heroes. Chandrashekhar Azad was betrayed. Bhagat Singh faced the gallows without even a whisper of help from those who called themselves patriots," he said. "You don't need foreign enemies. YOUR OWN PEOPLE BETRAY YOU AGAIN AND AGAIN FOR POWER, POSITION, AND PERSONAL GAIN. That is why we keep our distance." "When the British came to Hong Kong and Singapore, not one native man joined their army. But in India, you didn’t just join the enemy. You served them. Worshipped them. Killed your own people to please them." "Even today, you haven’t changed. Offer some free electricity, a bottle of liquor, a blanket—and your vote, your conscience, your voice are all sold without a second thought. YOUR LOYALTY LIES NOT WITH YOUR NATION, BUT WITH YOUR STOMACH," he said. "You chant slogans. You march in protests. But when the country needs your character, where are you? YOUR FIRST LOYALTY IS STILL TO YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY. EVERYTHING ELSE —SOCIETY, DHARMA, THE COUNTRY —CAN BURN." He ended with one final statement: "If your nation is not strong, your home will never be safe. If your character is weak, no flag can protect you." This is not mockery. It is a mirror. Perhaps the time has come for us to stop looking away, because India doesn’t need more patriots in speeches. IT NEEDS CITIZENS OF UNSHAKEABLE CHARACTER. NOT JUST FREEDOM FIGHTERS, BUT FREEDOM KEEPERS. NOT JUST FLAGS IN OUR HANDS, BUT LOYALTY IN OUR HEARTS. It is bitter. But it is true.

MR Nilkanth Oak has scientifically given the exact dates of MAHARASHTRA and RAMAYANA, based upon astronomical calculations, placements of stars and Nakshatra and matching them with the explanations given in ancient Vedic scriptures. Appears to be quite logical

MR Nilkanth Oak has scientifically given the exact dates of MAHARASHTRA and RAMAYANA, based upon astronomical calculations, placements of stars and Nakshatra and matching them with the explanations given in ancient Vedic scriptures. Appears to be quite logical 🔭 1. Dating of the Mahabharata • Proposed Date: 5561 BCE (start of the war). • Methodology: • He used >215 astronomical references from the Mahabharata (eclipses, nakshatras, planetary conjunctions, comets, lunar phases). • Key event: Arundhati–Vashistha observation (Bhishma Parva verse) — it mentions that the star Arundhati (Alcor) was ahead of Vashistha (Mizar) in the Saptarishi (Ursa Major). • Normally, Arundhati follows Vashistha. • Astronomically, this reversal was true only between 11,000 BCE – 4500 BCE. • Oak narrowed it to 5561 BCE, consistent with other data points. • He correlated eclipses (lunar and solar), Saturn’s position in Rohini, Mars in Jyeshtha, etc., using sky-simulation software. • Supporting Evidence: • Mentions of comets in Mahabharata fit this period. • War duration of 18 days matches astronomical tithis. • Post-war planetary descriptions (e.g., Saturn moving through Rohini) matched the 5561 BCE alignment. ⸻ 🌅 2. Dating of the Ramayana • Proposed Date: 12,209 BCE (timeline of Rama’s era). • Methodology: • Similar astronomical back-calculations using descriptions in Valmiki Ramayana: • Positions of planets when Rama was born (Sun in Aries, Jupiter in Cancer, Venus in Pisces, etc.). • Eclipses described during the exile and Hanuman’s leap to Lanka. • Nakshatra placements during key battles. • All these align best with the 12th millennium BCE. • Key Point: He argues the Ramayana predates the Mahabharata by about 7,000 years. ⸻ 🌍 3. Epochs and Broader Chronology Nilesh Oak doesn’t stop at epics — he extends into reconstructing epochs of civilization: • Arundhati Epoch: • Based on Arundhati-Vashistha reversal, suggests a deep antiquity of Indian civilization (~11,000 years+). • Bhishma Nirvana Epoch: • Bhishma’s death is astronomically timed to winter solstice of 5561 BCE. • Rama-Ravana War Epoch: • Around 12,209 BCE, coinciding with late Ice Age. He notes descriptions of massive floods, shifting seas, and landforms, which could link to climate upheavals after the last glacial maximum. • Other Phenomena: • Mentions of “great floods” (Pralaya) and climatic upheavals in Puranic and epic references correlate with post-Ice Age sea-level rise (~12,000–10,000 BCE). • Some of his lectures tie epic events with known geological events like Toba super-eruption (75,000 years ago) as part of civilizational memory. ⸻ 📚 4. Major Works by Nilesh Nilkanth Oak 1. “When Did the Mahabharata War Happen? The Mystery of Arundhati” (2011) • Main text presenting his 5561 BCE dating of the war. 2. “The Historic Rama” (2014) • Proposes the 12,209 BCE dating for Ramayana. 3. Research Articles & Lectures • On YouTube, ResearchGate, and conferences, he has extended discussions about Vedic chronology, Saraswati river drying, and epochs of Indian civilization. ⸻ ⚖️ 5. Reception • Supporters: Admire the scientific rigor of testing astronomical claims, showing Indian civilization’s deep antiquity. • Critics: Argue his interpretations are selective, dates conflict with archaeology, and 12,000 BCE civilizations are not supported by material evidence. ⸻ 🧭 Summary Table Epic/Event Nilesh Oak’s Proposed Date Key Evidence Used Mahabharata War 5561 BCE Arundhati anomaly, eclipses, planetary placements Ramayana Era 12,209 BCE Planetary birth-chart of Rama, eclipses, nakshatra data Arundhati Epoch ~11,000–4500 BCE Alcor–Mizar relative positions Ice Age Flood Memory ~12,000 BCE Floods, pralaya references, landform shifts ⸻ ✅ So, Nilesh Nilkanth Oak’s contribution lies in showing that the astronomical evidence embedded in Indian epics aligns with much older timelines than mainstream history usually allows, pointing to a very ancient civilization memory going back.

TRIUMPH OVER DANGER

Good Morning!!! TRIUMPH OVER DANGER Around the Year with Emmet Fox August 19 Read Psalm 91 “Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.” Here the lion stands for a difficulty of which we are so afraid that it seems to us a very lion in our path, rushing at us in the open. How different, on the other hand, is the attack of the adder, or snake; for it creeps upon us in the dark. And here we are promised that our complexes, dragons though they be, shall be dissolved by the realization of God. There is nothing that can be done by any form of psychotherapy that cannot be better done by the Practice of the Presence of God. The last three verses are in themselves a glorious psalm of ringing joy and triumph. “Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore, will I deliver him.” There is nothing hypothetical or contingent here. The statement indicates the fixed decision— I will deliver him. And why? —because he has set his love upon me. “I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.” In the Bible the "name" of anything means the nature or character of that thing. Now the nature of God is perfect, omnipresent, all-powerful good, boundless love; and to "know" this is to be set on hand above all our difficulties. The last two verses gather up all the implications and promises of this wonderful poem, and present them to the fearful or doubting heart as a song of triumph: “He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him, and show him my salvation.”

CONTROVERSY

*CONTROVERSY* A Bar Opened Opposite a Church!!! The Church Prayed Daily against the bar business. Days later the bar was struck by lightning & caught fire which destroyed it. Bar Owner Sued the Church Authorities for the cause of its destruction, as it was an action because of their Prayer. The Church Denied all Responsibility!!! So, the judge commented, *"It's Difficult to Decide the Case because here we have a Bar Owner Who Believes in the Power of Prayer & an Entire Church that Doesn't Believe in it"*

Why did Arjuna not kill Kripacharya in the Mahabharata War?

Why did Arjuna not kill Kripacharya in the Mahabharata War? On 14 th day after Jayadratha’s death,Kripacharya and Aswathama attacked Arjuna and got injured in turn. Baffling with his own weapons those of both Aswatthaman and Kripa, he sped at them, without desiring to slay them, shafts that coursed mildly. Those shafts, however (though mildly), shot by Jaya struck the two with great force, and in consequence of their number, caused great pain to Kripa and his nephew. CXLVI Drona parva Kripa swooned on the terrace of his chariot and lost consciousness.Aswathama fled away in fear from Arjun. Kripa was taken away by his charioteer. Then Saradwat's son, O king, thus afflicted with the arrows of Arjuna, lost all strength and swooned away on the terrace of his car. Understanding his master afflicted with shafts to be deprived of his senses, and believing him to be dead, the driver of Kripa's car bore Kripa away from the fight. And after Kripa, the son of Saradwat, had thus been borne away from the battle, Aswatthaman also, from fear, fled away from the son of Pandu. CXLVI Drona parva Arjuna’s grief Arjuna grieved on seeing his preceptor Kripa’s state . Shedding tears he lamented..that because of Duryodhan,he has to see the destruction of his race and his preceptor lying injured by his arrows. Then the mighty bowman, Partha, beholding the son of Saradwat afflicted with shafts and in a swoon, began to indulge, on his car, in piteous lamentations. With a tearful face and in great dejection of heart, he uttered these words: Alas, these words of the truth-telling Vidura have come to be true. It is for him that I behold my preceptor today lying on a bed of arrows. Fie on the practices of Kshatriya! Fie on my might and prowess! Who else like me would fight with a Brahmana that is, besides his preceptor? Kripa is the son of a Rishi; he is, again, my preceptor; he is also the dear friend of Drona. Alas, he lieth stretched on the terrace of his car, afflicted with my arrows. CXLVI Drona Parva Arjun said he will go to hell for injuring his preceptor. Those bulls among men that give desirable objects unto their preceptors after obtaining knowledge from them, attain to godhead. Those lowest of mortals on the other hand, who, after obtaining knowledge from their preceptors strike the latter, those wicked men, go to hell. Without doubt, this act that I have done will lead me to hell. I have deeply pierced my preceptor on his car with showers of arrows. CXLVI Drona parva Arjuna remembered Kripa asking him not to strike the preceptor ever but he regretted disobeying his word. While studying the science of arms at his feet, Kripa told me in those days, 'Do not, O thou of Kuru's race, ever strike thy preceptor. That command of my righteous and high-souled preceptor I have not obeyed, for I have struck, the very Kripa himself with my shafts. I bow to that worshipful son of Gotama, to that unretreating hero. Fie on me, O thou of Vrishni's race, since I have struck even him.' CXLVI Drona parva This was how Arjuna reacted when he struck Kripa mildly,not even aggressively. He felt guilty of giving pain to his preceptor Kripa who trained him in war fare knowledge after getting initiated by Shukra,son of Saryati at Satasringa mountain and before Drona got appointed as preceptor by Bhishma . come what may Arjun would never have killed either Kripa or Drona or even Aswathama. He always fought mildly with them with half his mettle. Such Arjun who couldn’t even bear with Kripa getting injured by his arrows,would kill him ever? Not possible. He may accept defeat,loss of kingdom but could never kill his preceptors who nourished him,trained him and made him the greatest warrior of the times! My answer is based on story of Vyasa Bharat

Friday, 15 August 2025

Sri Sri Gaushala

Krishna considered cows as sacred because they embody profound spiritual, practical, and symbolic significance in his life and teachings. During his childhood in Vrindavan, Krishna was a cowherd who lovingly cared for cows, showing their importance through his personal example. The cows were not just animals to him but were revered as sources of nourishment, abundance, and divine grace, symbolizing selfless service, humility, and compassion. Key lessons from Krishna's sacred relationship with cows include: Divine Care and Compassion: Krishna's role as a cowherd represents a model of nurturing and protecting all living beings with love and selflessness. His dedication teaches us to serve others, especially the vulnerable, with humility and devotion. Spiritual Nourishment: Cows symbolize abundance and spiritual nourishment. Their products (milk, ghee, dung) were integral to rituals and daily life, showing the holistic value of cows for spiritual and material well-being. Harmony with Nature: Krishna’s life with cows reflects living harmoniously with the environment, respecting and caring for the natural world as a sacred duty. Protection of the Vulnerable: Stories like Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill to protect cows and villagers from a storm highlight the duty of protecting those who cannot protect themselves, inspiring us to stand for kindness and safeguarding life. Humility and Service: Krishna, the Supreme Being, choosing to live as a humble cowherd, teaches that true greatness lies in humility and loving service rather than status or pride. Universal Divine Love: Krishna’s bond with cows illustrates that divine love extends to all life forms, encouraging inclusivity and respect for all beings. In essence, Krishna’s respect and love for cows elevate them as sacred symbols of life-giving abundance, spiritual growth, and compassionate living. Serving and caring for cows (Gau Seva) becomes a form of devotional practice that aligns one with Krishna’s divine love and humility. Thus, from Krishna’s example, we learn the importance of compassion for all beings, living in harmony with nature, embracing humility, and engaging in selfless service as pathways to spiritual fulfillment.