ON FREEDOM (AUTONOMY OF THOUGGHT & ACTION)

Freedom is a multifaceted percept. While we use it positively; keeping others freedom into consideration, then, it is justified but we use it to overvalue our own self-interests then it could have negative positioning.   It means liberty to act without force, independence of thought and action with no strings attached, no restriction of choice, free from outer influences etc. This action is independent of inner or outer influences. In other word, when our thoughts and Karmic Deeds are not subject to any extraneous interferences, then, our growth goes on unhindered since our action for fructifying our mission accomplishment has no bindings from any quarter.

FREEDOM FROM DESIRE & ANGER

In Bhagwad Gita, it has been mentioned that true enemy is not outside force but uncontrolled desire and anger arising from material attachment. True freedom arises when we are free from these two impulses. Doing so brings about peace and tranquality.

ESSENCE OF FREEDOM IN THOUGHT AND ACTION

Freedom is a multifaceted concept. It means liberty to act without coercion or restriction or restraint, fear or due to outer and inner conflicts. Under duress or in fear, our resolve to transact anything tangibly gets weakened. Freedom from hunger and want too is added to these. Then, we’ve freedom to think and act according to our requirement without restraints. Herein. Choice of our thoughts and actions too are taken into account.

One whose actions are fundamentally based on negative emotions, result in irrationally actions and reactions which may prove counterproductive ultimately.

The freedom of action is independent of outer influences. These influences may be positive or negative. Positive influences, enhance our sphere of influence in the community we are living while negative influences limit our growth and development.

FREEDOIM AS SPIRITUAL AWAKENING

According to Vedic perspective, freedom is not defined by what you can do but more so, whether you are going to be free from any reaction to your course of action. If you are not bound by any of your actions, I think that is really a condition of being free to experience freedom.

POSITIVE & NEGATIVE INFLUENCES

When our outer influences are positive, then, our path Is smooth for our journey ahead. But when there are pinpricks or our path is strewn with thorns in the form of opposition or irritants then our focus would be impacted for journey ahead since we would be thinking more about opposing factors instead of concentrating our task at hand.

Fact remains, when we have no strings attached from anywhere, then, our journey ahead in any field of activity, would be horizontal, plane and simple. In other words, an activity or task handled bereft of any hurdles, in an air of freedom, creates situation and condition for success of our mission.

A TASK ACCOMPLISHED WITH AN AIR OF FREEDOM MAKES THE SITUATIONS AT HAND EASY TO HANDLE

Freedom of thought and action enhances our confidence for handling any contingency which we may confront on our path. And, if we meet failures sometimes, then, we have the wherewithal for course correction without much botheration.

 With positive push, without any roadblocks of any sort, creates conditions to enhance our sphere of influence or outreach in the society and outside our society too.

ABSOLUTE FREEDOM SPOILS THE INDIVIDUAL & SOCIETY

In essence, seemingly, freedom on face value is wonderful. Everybody gets attracted by its value and when utilized with precision and self-assurance, it is wonderful one. But when too much independence is accorded to a person or a group of people then it has dangerous outcome. For example, the perilous results which were experienced when Kaurava Prince Dharyodhana the son of Dhritrashtra  (In Mahabharata), was accorded full freedom with no justification attached with such freedom to act. He became so arrogant and self-centered to the core that he did not care to listen or heed any sagacious advice from anybody since he was more influenced by the advice of Mama Shakuni – a crafty conspirator. This irrational act of his proved to be dangerous for Kauravas and resulted in deaths of his brothers and all his nears and dears.

Then we have the example of Adolf Hitler, the German Dictator, who enjoyed absolute and unfettered freedoms, which he showcased in his actions against his enemies. His strategic blunder of invading Russia led  to his downfall. Even presently, there are the countries which consider themselves abovepar and even intimidate the weaker ones in one way or other. This goes to prove that too much of freedom enjoyed by individuals or societies could prove to be counterproductive; discredited outcome.

ON INDIVIDUAL PLANE INNER FREEDOM IS ESSENTIAL

Factually, freedom is not merely our thoughts an action thereof; outside our sphere of activity, it proves significant when it is accompanied with inner freedom. A Karmic deed performed in an air of inner freedom gives sanctity to our mission accomplishment thus making our path smooth and bereft of any hurdles.

OUTER NEGATIVE INFLUENCES COULD BE DILUTED WITH INNER FREEDOM

When the place we are living is uncongenial for living, we can make it suitable by either changing the place and if it is not possible due to reasons beyond our control then we can utilize our inner freedom to change our mindset. Here patience, inner calmness, endurance and tolerance along with staying-power could water down the negative tendency and make everything favourable.

INTEGRITY IN OUR FREEDOM

Freedom without sincerity or honesty of purpose in our thoughts and actions put ourselves into the assemblage of distrustful individuals whom nobody believes while dealing with such person. Therefore, integrity or truthfulness in our thoughts is essential factor with freedom to be of value.

ACCOUNTABILITY & FREEDOM

If we’ve adequate freedom in our choice, freedom of speech, freedom of choosing our religion, freedom influenced by the society, linguistic freedom, freedom to ack out a living with legitimate manner etc. with no accountability, then, all the freedoms would lose their sheen and would be deceptive.

DIGNITY WITH FREEDOM OF CHOICE

dignity with autonomy of choice and inner liberation. Whatever he/she does or wants to do could be done by him/her under rules codified by the country he/she is living. Herein responsibility and respect for the individual too is important.

THINKING AND ACTING IN ACCORDANCCE WITH OUR CONSCIENCE

When we think and act according to our principle which we cherish. The basic pillar which stands out is while our purity of thoughts and actions are based on freedom bereft of any inner conflicts or outer pressures and are in sync with our conscience.

OUR FREEDOM

Working in free environs
Creates situations & conditions
Which is positive in its orientation
For growth & development of a person
Since when the environment is neat & clean
It provides opportunities for all-inclusive evolution
For its citizens.

Where the citizens are free to vote to choose their reps
And form the Govt. for assisting the voters

Where choice lies with the individual concerned
For enhancing pursuits of education
According to citizens’ needs and aspirations
Thence get a career as per skill one attains.

Where free environs help tread on the path
As per his ethics
Dear to the individual for personal growth
Herein the citizens have the freedom to eke out a living legitimately
For himself and members of his family.
Where an individual pursues
The religious belief of his choice
For connectivity with the Almighty God
Bereft of any fear or restraint.
Where an individual and society’s growth is interwind for a common purpose
With Nodal Centres of State playing a stellar role
For their growth and development.
Where democratic rights of its citizens
Is ensured to fulfilment their wants
With guarantee ensured by the State
In the form of doles when and where needed.

Where dignity and integrity of the citizens
Are significantly cared for growth in every sphere where needed.
Where individual’s inner freedom is ensured
Along with growth of the community without bias.

Where everybody participates in growth of self and the society as a whole
When State ensures to provide guidance when needed.

Where there is freedom of speech is ensured and respected
With accountability and responsibility fixed.

There is no freedom in autocratic societies
Here everything is done to please the rulers
Also, here rulers rules are obeyed without exception.

EXCESSIVE FREEDOM & PARENTING

Free atmosphere is an important factor for the growth of a child but there should be self-controlled checks and balances. Too much freedom spoils the budding child since the child needs both soft and hard handling from time to time. Too much freedom spoils the child and too little freedom creates confusing situation which is not conducive for the healthy growth of a child. A balance approach is necessary.

THE MOST SACRED DAY : NIRJALA EKADASHi

Nirjala Ekadashi is the most important and austere of all Ekadashi fasts which are dedicate to Lord Vishnu. It would be observed on 25^th June 2026. Observance of Ekadashi fast grants the person concerne the spiritual merits of all the 24 Ekadashis put together in a calendar year. Nirjala Ekadashi fast date is on 25^th June 2026 (Thursaay). The fast is broken on 26^th June 2026 at 05.25 TO 08:13 am.

Nirjal means without intake of water and without food from Sunrise from 25^th Juner 2026 to Sunrise on 26^th June 2026.

On this most auspicious day, charity in the form of donating water, umbrellas, sweets including earthen pots (Matkas) are given to the needy.

The Nirjala Ekadashi Fast has been mentioned in various Hindu scriptures, particularly in the Brahma-Vaivarta Purana and Padma Purana. This fast is observed in the honour of Lord Vishnu.

LORD VISHNU : THE DEITY RESPONSIBLE FOR EVOLUTION

NIRJALA  EKADASHI

Nirjila or Nirjal means without intake of water but in the context of Ekadashi, it means, observance of strict fast on this occasion of Nirjal  Ekadashi;  not even a drop of water is taken. In other words, it is the strictest observance of fast with observance of rituals that are there. But there is a caveat, the devout should distribute cold water along with other eatables for the needy.

WHAT IS IKADASHI & ITS SIGNIFICANCR

Ekadashi is one of the prominent occasions which if observed with detachment and as per prescribed rituals helps in cleansing our sins as well as the sins of our nears and dears. Ekadashi Moksha (Moksha means liberation) is a most special and most auspicious occasion. On this day, Lord Krishna (Vishu’s  Incarnation – Avtara) delivered His Bhagwad Gita recital to Dhanushdhari Arjuna when both the armies of Pandvas and Kauravas were facing each others in Kurukeshtra battle field. Every specific activities performed on this day has its own significance and benefits accrued to us provided the fasting is observed strictly in accordance with scriptural norms.

NIRJAL AKADASHI A MOST SACRED DAY

Nirjala Ekadashi is being celebrated on 25^th June 2026 (Jeshth Maa)   It is the most sacred day. It is said that the devotee keeping fast on this day with penance and prayers becomes eligible for the bountiful grace of  Lord Vishnu; who is responsible for evolution of the creations of Lord Brahma. It is opined that keeping fast today bestows bountiful blessings equivalent to 24 fasts by Lord Vishnu.  We worship the God of evolution. If we fast on this day by doing all the good Karmic deeds including charities to the needy, then, the graces of Lord Vishnu remain on us for good.

THIS DAY TOO IS CONSIDERED AS BHIM EKADASHI : FASTING ON THIS DAY BESTOWS US GRACES OF LORD VISHNU

Legend have it that all the four brothers of Pandavas (Yudhrishtra, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakul and Sehdeva) including their mother Kunti were instructed by Maharishi Ved Vayasa (The author of Epic Mahabharta) to keep fast today by observance of all the rituals. Rishi Vayasa mentioned that those who fast on this day get the privileges and bounties of LORD VISHNU AND GODDESS LAKSHMI (The giver of peace and prosperity). The fast could also make them the most suitable candidate for Heaven at the Lotus Feet of LORD VISHNU. All could resist the temptation of eating except Bhima (with his big body). He could not resist his insatiable temptation of eating something and keeping fast was not possible for him. But Rishi Vayasa prevailed upon Bhima to keep fast on this particular day. He observed all the rituals and thus got the blessings of LORD VISHNU and Goddess Lakshmi. Bhima kept fast by observing all the conditions for the fast for the entire day and got the blessings of the most benevolent Lord VISHNU  SHRI HARI. That is why, this day is also termed as BHIMA SENI EKADASHI.

LORD VISHN IS, RESPONSIBLE FOR EVOLUTION

Vishnu Gyatri Mantri could also be recited for getting the bounties of the Lord. Or Mantra, OM NAMON BHAGWATE VASU DEV AYE NAMON. Including the following PRAYER for getting the grace of Lord VISHNU.

Om jaya Jagadīśha hare
Swami Jai Jagdish hare
Bhakta janoṅ ke saṅkat
Dās janoṅ ke saṅkat
Kṣaṇa meṅ dūr kare
Om jai Jagadīśh hare
Jo dhyāve phal pāve
Dukh binase mana kā
Swāmī dukh binase man kā
Sukha samptī ghara āve.
Sukha sampatī ghara āve
Kaṣṭa miṭe tana kā
Om jaya Jagadīśa hare…

FASTING PURIFIES OUR MIND AND BODY

On Ekadashi day, a devotee does not take food. Takes fruits and milk that too in a limited quantity. Food habits differ from one area to another. I and my wife endeavour to keep purity in thoughts and deeds beside not taking food. The purpose is to keep purity  in thoughts AND ACTION.

It is the day when the devotees go to the temples and worship Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakhmi with purity in mind and body. Observance of fast is accompanied with giving charities in the form of food items and juices to the people. As this fast falls in summer season, people distribute cold drinks.

SIGNIFICANCE OF EKADASHI DAY FASTING TO PURIFY BODY, MIND, AND SOUL

Relevance of  Ekadashi occurs on the eleventh day of the lunar cycle (both full and new moon)  It happens twice in a month according to Hindu Calendar – the waxing phase or Shukla Paksha and fading moon called Krishna Paksha. There are 24 Ekadashis in a Calendar year and there are two more Ekadashis that take place in a lunar leap year. Ekdashi Day is considered as the most spiritual event when strict fasting is observed from early morning to the next day morning.

THE BENEVOLENT LORD VISHNU ORIGIN OF EKADASHI

In Satya Yuga, Lord Vishnu had a long-drawn-out battle with demon named Mura. Due to the protracted battle, Lond Vishnu got tired as a result of which His tiredness he went to sleep. Mura was waiting for this opportunity. He pounced on Lord Vishnu for his ill intent. Then a damsel appeared from the body of Lord Vishnu who fought a pitched battle with Mura and killed him. She was actually Mahashakti who appeared  on 11^th day of fading moon thus Lord Vishnu named her Ekadashi.  He also bestowed her the boon that whosoever fasts on this day would be free off the sins and also will have moksha (Liberation) ultimately.

SIFNIFICANCE OF EKADASHI DAY FACT

The religious rituals, given in the sacred Pranas / Vedic scriptures, and also referred to as Hari’s Day. their strict observance thereof helps the devotees in spiritually.

• Observance of fast cleanses our body, mind and soul. It can transform our Kukarma (Bad Action) into good Karma thus paving the way for an aspirant to attain the traits of detachment, the mention of which has been amply made in Bhagwad Gita. Action performed without consideration of fruits or results of that action could help us attain Liberation (Moksha).

• As the people who fast keep away from solid grain foods and take light diet consisting of milk products, dry fruits and fruits, we feel light and our digestive system too works wonders as it provides

due rest to our system thus keeps our health in fine fettle. Healthy eating even for a day fortnightly can repair our system.

• Self-awareness resulting from strict observing converts conviction into practical experience.

• It helps alleviating us in spiritual ladder.

• Its strict observance can help us attain Moksha or Liberation from pangs of birth and deaths.

• Anybody observing the Ekadashi with all the focus at his/her command could remove that person’s sufferings.

• As this day is termed as the Lord Hari’s day, its observance could alleviate the sufferings of an individual.

• While the body and mind is cleansed, it is possible to ward off from the three sins: lust, greed and anger.

• Fasting on this auspicious day is bereft of any external pressures. This day passes both in peace and harmony including inculcation of good habits.

• As we are aware, the gravitational pull of the moon influences the oceans in the form of high and low tides hence Intake of less food items and more of liquid Ekadashi Day helps in influencing us biologically too. It has been practically observed by the proponents who fast sincerely – the diseases like blood pressure, insomnia, depression, gastric problems could be cured with fasting. Observance of such fasts have obviously helped me in maintaining good health and wellness.

• While we fast on this day, we also meditate thus not only helping us spiritually but also enhancing the chances of connectivity with God.

• It has also been felt that the benefits of Ekadashi fasting and all the purity and sincerity observed on this day to the individual concerned but also to his/her family members.

• Ekadashi fasting helps in self-awareness simply because of individual observance of fast strictly in accordance with scriptures since self-realization results from self-disciplinary efforts.

• We learn how to control our unethical desires and lead a life full of compassion.

• Canvas of our spirituality enhances with the observance of Ekadashi Fast.

My sincerest prayer to the LORD OF EVOLUTION is to grant PEACE & PROSPERITY globally as with His grace nothing is impossible.

A GLOWING TRIBUTE TO A FATHER[A1] 

IN BHAGWAD GITA it has been asserted: I am the father of this universe, the mother, the support, and the grandsire. I am the object of knowledge, the purifier and the syllable OM. I am also the RK, the Sama, and the Yajur [Vedas].

According to the Nirukta – a father (Pitā) is someone Who Protects, Sustains & Nourishes.

It is significant to keep in mind that our Omnipotent God  is responsible for our holistic growth after our birth by giving all sorts of inputs for the growth by bestowing us the relationships most dear; mother, father, sister, uncle, aunty including  grandparents. All these relationships contribute immensely for solidifying the fabric of the offspring.

BIBLE gives important role to a father: As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him. Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. I will be a father to him, and he’ll be a son to me.

TRIBUTE TO A FATHER TO KEEP THE RELATIONSHIP SWEET & LOVELY

FATHER & MOTHER ARE IMPORTANT FOR SHAPING THE DESTINY OF THEIR CHILDREN.

It is significant to mention that both father and mother are the important pillars of a family and both of them ensure that a conducive environment is created in the family so that the children imbibe sound value system, learn the art of adaptability in any environment, have traits to learn new things along with imbibing all the traits of good attitude and habit while shunning bad company. In this, both spouses play their stellar role in a most suitable ecosystem. The father has to be an example of righteousness and sincerity so that the children too follow his footsteps in life.

FATHER : A SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP

A relationship most respected
Who comes to the succor of his offspring every time it is needed!
Even overcoming all constraints
Which may come on the path to tide over the situations
In whatever ethical way a can provide healthy balance in existence.

With parental love and affection in abundance
A male biological contributor of the infant’s creation
Possessing with it, all legal and social relationships
Besides, male parent carries certain rights and with it huge obligations.

Even the step-father or adoptive father too should shower compassion
While bestowing upon the children the right kind of upbringing and value system
To make the life most disciplined.

Care the child as his own continually till the child attains their goal
It is a pious duty of a father to render a helping hand to his children
Give the right dose of upbringing which is hugely needed
Including all support system which is required
For upbringing the offspring in the best possible way
For which paternal love is paramount
For overall evolution, growth and development of the child
Thus taking care of physical and mental health
So that the child adjusts well in the society in which the child is living
Thus helping the children steering clear
Off the adverse situations which may come without much caution.

A LOT OF LOVE TO MY FATHER

It is a known fact that fatherly pat quenches
The logical thirst of their children
And the children come to know about the world around
Father’s guidance brings our journey back on track

And save children from going off course
And save them from sure off-the-track passage
Father’s soft touch is as good as the hard one
Since these help the children’s wellbeing in the long run.

I had all the attention from my parents
Those years were really very impressionable indeed
When both of them were there with us.
My father, a World War 1st Veteran
Who donned his army uniform
In his lifetime had seen many ups and downs
During his active service tenure in armed forces
He gave credence to the idea of ‘duty first’ above everything else
With utmost dedication and devotion which were the hallmark
The traits of which were transferred onto me in plenty.

My father too faced many a tragedies
Three of his brothers had accidental deaths
But faced every difficulty with resilience and courage
Determined that such tragedies should not distract us
He taught us that fear should not make us weak
But faced with courage and with strong will
He practiced Ayurveda to cure his rural patients as a social service
So that cure could be bestowed to the ones who needed it the most.

He actively participated in many a social causes
In whatever manner it was possible for him
With the limited resources he had that time
He nurtured us with the best diet he could afford
Inculcated positive outlook on life
And taught us how best to adjust with the time and space
As to how to face challenges
Which may visit without much warning
Infuse positive outlook on life in us
Even at the discouraging irritants
Which may visit us without any prior inklings
He taught us how to face up to any situation
Which he himself followed assiduously till his last day
While on his death bed at the ripe of age of Ninety SEVEN
When I was studying only in class SEVEN
Whilst he anticipated that his end was so near
He called all of us near him with a smile
Gave four gems of advices which we still follow most conscientiously
Never interfere in others’ affairs unreasonably
Never be afraid of life’s challenges which may visit suddenly
Never be reactive to anything that may happen with much warning.

And finally always follow the dictum
The winner is the one who follows the Absolute Truth.
Subsequently, he breathed his last
With two tears flowing from his eyes
And God’s names on his tongue
Which I vividly remember even now
That is the true tribute to my father

And may be to every father , LIVING OR NOT LIVING.

ROLE OF PARENTS IN SHAPPING THE HOLISTII GROWTH OF THEIR CHILDREN

Father and mother are two important pillars of a family and children need both of them while they grow up. They are considered to be the best medium for bringing about needful transformation in their progenies. That is why it is important that both the spouses create sound ecosystem to change their destinies. In this scheme of things father has special responsibility.

MOTHER PLAYS A STELLAR ROLE

It is a undisputed fact that the relation of parents with their progenies is really very unique. Mother is considered to be the homemaker (Garhini) and her place in running the household in an ordinary manner. This includes taking care of the children, old and infirm including ensuring that the relationship with the close relatives along with distant relatives remains intact. No household can running efficiently and effectively without her deft and elegant handling. Not merely taking care of household chores, now she works for supplementing the income of the family.

A FLOWERY TRIBUTE TO A FATHER

RESPONSIBILITIES OF A FATHER FOR ENSURING EFFECTIE TRANSFORMATION IN CHILDREN

Following are the significant role played by a father in ensuring holistic growth and development in their children:

BESTOWING PROTECTIVE COVER TO THE ENTIRE FAMILY

It is a fact that when the family is internally and externally secure, it can perform its functions as a wellnit unit. The family feels secure and all the members of the household feel protected from any threats emanating from any quarter. With the presence of father, all the members works as a cohesive unit performing different responsibilities without let or hindrance.

ENSURING PROVISION OF FINANCIAL SECURITY FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILTY

Along with security and protection from outside aggressions, it is also the responsibility of a father to provide financial security for the entire family. He has to eke out a sincere living for the entire to his progenies grow to be self-reliant or till the progenies attain financial-independency.

FATHER HELPS IN FAMILARIZATION THEIR CHILDREN ABOUT THE OUTSIDE WORLD

In the eyes of children, their father presents a clear window of opportunity to showcase them the panorama of world around them. He commands a huge respect in their eyes. He is their protector and security provider, their conscious keeper, their destiny and future depends on him since he never forsakes them in any event. I am of the view that father should also make sincere efforts that faith reposed by the children is not belied in any event.

BESTOWING LOVE AND AFFECTION WITHOUT ANY STRINGS ATTACHED

The father functions as a binding force in a family. He bestows his absolute love and affection to his family including the dependent members while ensuring that nobody is found wanting and neglected in any way.

RESPONSIBILITY OF FATHER TO EXHIBIT LOVE AND RESPECT TO HIS SPOUSE

A responsible father respects his spouse since the children too learn the value system from the family only, therefore, it is the duty of the father to have high opinion of his wife without any reservation. A father who does not bestow due respect to his wife sets a bad precedence for his progenies.

TEACHING THE IMPORTANCE OF DISCIPLINE

It is in the family itself that a child learns how best to remain in discipline meaning getting up early in the morning, perform all the natural functions in the morning hours, regulating all the functions with punctuality and systematically. In this, father’s plays a key role.

GIVING QUALITY TIME

Although father has to take care of financial security of the family yet it is his duty how best to spare quality time for his children for their holistic growth and development. This is done on a regular basis.

TEACHING THE TRAITS OF TAKING RESPONSIBILITY AND FIX ACCOUNTABILITY

Since the first lesson is taking any responsibility is learned in the family only, it is the responsibility of the father to assign different functions to hid progenies and teach them how best to be accountable for their respective functions. Any deviation should be handled by the father with tact and deftly. This accountability will teach them to remain disciplined not merely in the family but also in life which follows.

INVOLVEMENT IN STUDIES

It is the responsibility of the father that the children study according to the time schedule while checking their performance at every step. As and when a need is felt, father should take corrective steps to remedy or bestow course correction but all this should be done with love without fear or coercion. In this, his wife can also contribute for showing correct path for inculcation study habits in the children.

TEACHING THE CHILDREN TO BE A RESPONSIBLE CITIZEN

It is the responsibility of father to create an appropriate ecosystem in the family to teach their children to take responsibility in variety of functions in various stages of the life of their progenies. It should be kept in mind that a offspring remains a child for a father even if he/she grows to be young and aspiring professional. For a father, there is always a scope for improvement in a child at any stage of life and the offspring should also have the same sort of feeling. He should not outgrow his boots ever. A child has to grow to be a responsible citizen and not an irresponsible stone thrower and in this, father has a special and important role.

In conclusion, it could be said that father and mother play stellar role in shaping the life of their children. The mother bestows upon the child her first lesson in value system which plays a dominant role in grooming the child for holistic growth. On the other hand the role of father is to provide financial security, inculcate traits to make a solid and unwavering character besides facing the ups and downs of life.  The father is a pillar of strength and thus plays a significant role in the lives of offspring.

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LORD SHIVA WAS THE FATHER OF YOGA

EFFICIENCY IN ACTION IS YOGA (KARMA YOGA) – BHAGWAD GITA

The origin of Yoga is mystic in nature. by 5th Century BC, Yoga was very popular. It also finds its place in Vedic Scriptures. But it cannot be disputed that Lord Shiva was the father of ancient Yoga; as His posture shows Him in Yogic mode

INTERNATIONAL YOGA DAY ON 21^ST JUNE 2026

MEANING OF YOGA

The word YOGA has originated from the Sanskrit word ‘yuja’ meaning to integrate or bind or to align to unite to act or to discipline oneself to act in a natural way to seek complete self-realization or self-awareness. It means the unity or integration of an individual’s consciousness with that of Universal Consciousness.

“Tasmad asaktah satatam karyam karma samacara asakto hy acaran karma param apnoti purushah” BHAGWAD GITA“

Meaning, one should simply focus on Karma and leave everything onto God. It also goes to show that a Yogi should be focused on the action but not the outcome of that action. It should also be in line with our spiritually orientated way of existence.

VARIOUS TYPES OF YOGA

There are three types of Yoga which are described in Bhagwad Gita:

• Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and Jnana Yog

• Karma Yoga is the path of selfless thoughts and actions.

• Bhakti Yoga is the path of devotion to God and thirdly Jnana Yoga is the path of knowledge to remove ignorance. All these are essential for living a balanced life.

IMPORTANCE OF KARMA YOGA

Karma Yoga has been amply mentioned in Bhagwad Gita stresses that we should transact our actions and detach from the fruits of those actions. Meaning when our actions are based on sound and rational thoughts then their results will have to be good. Also, by detaching ourselves from the fruits, we’re able to concentrate/focus on out actions besides offering those actions to God rather than frittering our energies by attaching ourselves with result of our action. In this a YOGI regularly practices YOGIC PRACICES.

We know that Yoga is a gift of our country to the international community. It embodies thought, body, mind and action in order to create harmony between man and nature. In Yogic practice, we adopt scientific approach in order to have sound mind and sound body.

YOGA THEORY AND PRACTICE

It is relevant to mention that Yoga Sutras is the theory and practice collated and propagated by Maharishi Patanjali. The Yoga Sutras has a collection of 198 Sutras in number. These were compiled between 500 BCE and 200 BCE. These contain in-depth knowledge about Yoga being followed from olden times. His contribution has been recognized as the best for the benefit of humanity. It provided harmony between man and the nature.

YOGA FOR UNITY OF BODY MIND & SOUL

The literal word Yoga
Originates from the Sanskrit word Yuja
meaning to unite or align or align
All the organs of our body to work as a cohesive unit
For ensuring integration
of body, mind and soul in unison
for ensuring holistic growth and development
of body, mind and soul
By regulation of breathing exercises
With a absolute regularity
And complete alacrity
With an emphasis on focused attention
To get maximum benefit that could be attained
With Yogic postures so varied
And instill discipline in the Yogi
Along with enhancing our concentration
Through focused attention
Thereby controlling the function
of our body and mind
Along with ensuring
Total control over our emotions
Which helps in self-realization
By knowing our innate potentials
By regulated breathing
For our good health and wellbeing.

Yoga gives the traits of tolerance, patience and tranquility to a Yogi
International Day of Yoga has a special significance for the humanity
Being celebrated on 21st June, annually
Yoga results in holistic growth of body, mind and soul
Through physical, mental and spiritual practices in real time & space
In order to create harmony between man and the Mother Nature.


Yoga is one of the most precious gifts to the world at large
By father of Yoga Maharishi Patanjali
Yoga is for unity
Yoga helps bestows harmony of man and the Mother Nature
Yoga is for performing all functions in sync with Nature
For ensuring body immunity optimally
Yoga is for ensuring balance bdtween mind and body
Yoga provides staying power to a Yogi
Yoga is for inculcation of discipline in our routines
Ensuring functional internal body organs’ efficacy
Yoga enhances lung functionality
Improving the sleep quality.

Pranayama ensures rejuvenation of our body
Creating awareness of SELF while we focus on our mind and body
For ensuring sound metabolic process of our body
For a sound circulation of blood in our veins of our body.

While we have Karma Yoga
Meaning performing our functions or duties
With utmost sincerity and honestly
While having no attachment
With the result of our action or Karmic deeds
Thus following spiritual orientation
Along with performing meditation
And ensuring enhancement of our Karmic credit account
And realize the purpose of our life of connectivity with Almighty God
And ensures connectivity & merger
Of soul with Super Soul
For liberation from births and deaths termed as Moksha.

YOGA FOR HOLISTIC GROWTH OF BODY, MIND AND SOUL

The International Day of Yoga is being celebrated annually since 21st June 2015. The purpose of this day is to inculcate physical, mental and spiritual development. Since it is inception, this day has a special significance since many countries celebrate this day by participating in the Yogic exercises.

Conclusively, it could be said that if we make it a habit to perform YOGA regularly, it will, certainly grace us with holistic growth and development i.e. body, mind and ultimately soul.

PEACE OF MIND: According to Bhagavad Gita, true happiness flow from peace of mind. And peace flows from a steady mind. And steady mind comes from positive thoughts and karma thereof.

True happiness is also results from INNER PEACE which is the outcome of sound mind in sound body.

Essentially, true happiness comes if we have peace of mind. Peace of mind results when we have steady mindset. The steady mind is the consequence of balanced way of thinking and action thereof. While our Karma or action I the result of our thought process. The origin of thought results from our daily experiences, of successes and failings since all our actions may not result in success. Success could be acquired through our determination or will power and also learning we add on in our success rate. Success gives us confidence to attain the goals we set for ourselves.

True happiness results when our goals are met but this should be acquired with selfeffort and also with the intervention of transcendental intelligence. Those who pride themselves for acquiring success without Supreme Intelligence are suffused in egocentric tendencies. And, we are aware that ego is very harmful for our further growth and both in worldly matters and spiritually since both are interlinked.

All inclusive and holistic growth of ours could be acquired when we have control over our mind. If the mind wavers from one thought to another, then, we cannot maintain a balanced state of mind. This ‘balance’ is acquired through enhancing our focus on the subject at hand.  There are factors responsible for controlling our mind. These factors are our attitude, habit, our reactions at different situations and conditions. Then our health and wellness also contribute in our endeavour to control our mind. It qualifies our the dictum ‘Sound mind dwells in sound body’. Therefore, we’ve to keep our body in good health. This could be possible through regular exercises and a balanced diet. Once the mind works according to the needs for growth and development.  

A balanced mind works for our balanced or inclusive growth. Herein our thoughts and actions thereof work to shape our character.

Conclusively, it could be said that control of our mind leads to attainment of growth physically and mentally leading to fulfilment of our personal growth holistically. This enables us to add to our happiness quotient. And peace of mind is the is result of mind control; lapping positive outcomes and learning from our past experiences.  Herein material prosperity is not the only important thing but satiety with what we have despite our best effort.

OUR ENVIRONMENT

In Bhagwad Gita ,  it has been mentions that the material Nature, which is one of MY ENERGIES,  is working under MY direction, producing all moving non moving things. Under this rule, this manifestation is created and destroyed again and again. Thus, Environment, in all its forms and manifestation is God’s creation and we humans have to keep its purity.

In is well said, the place we live ought to be neat, clean and with greenery in abundance. While we live in clean environment, we can keep ourselves healthy. This happens when we observe the Laws of Nature. Thinking that somebody else will do this cleaning for us is a futile thought since we live our own lives and have implications if and when we do not care for our environment.

 
Mother Nature by itself is unadulterated
Spotless and beatific in every way we can comprehend
But we humans spoil its cleanliness
By our own unethical activities
And not following the Laws of Nature.
The environment in which we live
In the atmosphere in which we exist
And subsist
The way we act
At our living places
At our work places are to be kept neat & clean
All these depend on the awareness
About how best to keep our environs clean
By cleansing the surrounding
In which we live and enjoy the bounties of Mother Nature
There are some manmade polluting agents
In the form of water pollution
Air pollution
Noise pollution
Adversely not merely humanity
But also plants, birds and marine life.
We’ve to cleanse the environment
Atmosphere and surrounding in which we live
Spoiling the surrounding means
Spoiling our chances of living in clean atmosphere
It happens when our greed takes precedence.

The environment encompasses all living beings
And the things which naturally exists
Not produced artificially with hands of humans
But originated by nature and natural phenomena
Inclusive of all eco-system naturally functioning
Along with microorganisms, land and what it has on it
Our environment is obviously boundless
It constitute all living beings and others things – just seamless
Along with natural resources contained inside the crust of land and over-ground
Resources like water, air, sun energy, weather, magnetism plus electric current
Then natural energy like radiation, electric current, eddy current and what not
Thus everything which has been created by Mother Nature
And maintained and run under the Natural Laws
We as humans should perfect the art of preservation of Nature and what it contains
Otherwise the Nature will have severe retribution onto the humans.

The manner in which we are defiling the beauties of Mother Nature is really very bad. It may be water pollution, making the water polluted by throwing pollutants in them, air pollution by our unethical action of spewing poisonous gases in the environment. All these actions lead to spoil the modesty of our environs and these unreasonable and irrational actions of ours leads to adverse implications.

IMPORTANCE OF MAINTAINING PATIENCE EVEN IN HARDEST TIMES

The word ‘patience’ means our resilience to withstand any delay in execution of our mission we have put into fruition. Then suffering without any demur; without change of mood or becoming reactive, upset or annoyed or get dismayed.

FRUITS OF PATIENCE

• Patience leads to calmness in our disposition.

• Patience brings about accumulation of innate expertise and these could be utilized in useful pursuits for delivery of better results in our efforts.

• Patience inculcates more confidence in us in order to face any challenge which may come in our path.

• Patience enhances belief in our own self along with enhancement of BELIEF on our CREATOR.

• Patience paves the way for seeing everything in positive love & light.

• Patience makes our sojourn more comfortable with overflying belief that our efforts have the HAND OF OUR LORD on us.

• Patience makes us more positive to accomplish our mission with let or hinderance since we concentrate more on our task at hand without remaining focusing on the outcome. And when we are focused on the task with utmost concentration, nothing comes in our path.

• As with patience in our efforts, we are for anything under the sun; nothing hinders our path.

In sum, with patience as our companion, we attain balance of mind and with balance of mind nothing is impossible. Herein lies the secret of our success in our existence. With this sort of attitude, our path in life has the invisible torch of light with us to guide.

We, in our life, experience many ups and down when our expectations and desires remain unfulfilled due to one reason or other. in Bhagwat Gits, the Anger (Karodh) has been described as one of the most destructive for human human consciousness. It results when our desires or expectations are not met and our attachments to various worldly material desires remain unfulfilled.

While when our desires are not fructified as we expect then we tend to explore different reasons for non fulfilment of our desires. Besides blaming our own self, we others too for our failings. These could be our blood relations (family members) or friends we hold dear because our conscious self gets blurred besides we lack reasonable or rational thinking in such situations and conditions. Under such circumstances, we are overpowered by negative emotions. Under the spell of negative emotions, we tend to become skeptical on anything and everything.

Having negative spell bereft of any tangible reason, our intelligence and sagacity take backseat and negative emotions take root. Under such a scenario, we tend to blame others despite the fact that our failings are entirely due to us. Nobody else is responsible for our downward spirals. And due to all these confusing situations, anger takes control of our consciousness due to blurring of our senses.

In essence, when anger seeps into our system, it affects our daily life. We become intolerant. Even a reasonable persuasion will not change our thought processes. All this affects us physically and mentally. We tend to have stress related diseases thus impacting our overall personality since we become arrogant and intolerant at every stage of our life. We blame others for our negative state of affairs. Never thinking that we ourselves are responsible for our failings! But our cloudy mindset does not distract from our preconceived notion which we have imbibed; a ruinous state which may take us to our peril.

The suspicious nature which we have cultivated due to our anger will adversely affect our relationship with our family members. We have seen many of broken families when anger takes a center stage in our thought processes.

We are aware that under the spell of anger, our rational thoughts get swamped by negative emotions and with negative emotions, we lose everything we have gained in life; the wealth of goodwill, the wealth we had earned since nobody likes a person who cannot adjust with others, in the office or at home.

I take anger takes us to a breaking point, therefore, option for the individual concerned is to take control of self and reorient his/her lifestyle. Leading a spiritual lifestyle under a good Guru will alleviate our thoughts and turn our negative thoughts into positive ones and make our life sublime and follow a path which may lead to holistic growth bereft of many desires or expectations. This will also inculcate in us tolerance, calmness, rational thinking, humanism with a lost of compassion.

It should always be borne in mind that nothing tangible can happen to us while under the spell of ANGER. Therefore, nothing should make us angry; even if we fail to achieve what we could not. Here BHAGWAT GITA’s sagacious thoughts should always be kept in mind that we have not brought anything while we were born an nothing will go with us when we will not be here in this earth. Hence, getting angry should not be our companion.

LORD SHIVDEV JI IS THE LORD OF IMPARTING JUSTICE  WITHOUT ANY BIAS.

Today is the most pious day of LORD SHANI DEV’S JYANTI. Shani Dev Ji is considered to be the Lord of providing justice for our good and bad Karmas. He is the Lord of Karma or Justice. He keeps tab on all our deeds. Nobody can escape His justice bestowing Nature. Even Trinity (Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma) could not escape His justice giving Nature. It is also termed as the Shani Amavasya. Shani Jyanti is the most important day when special prayers and Havans (Sanctified Fire) to invoke Him, are conducted to earn His blessings. Lord Shani Dev Ji is the son of Sun God (Surya Dev Ji) and mother Chhaya Devi. He is the personification of Planet Saturn. We celebrate Shani Jayanti on yeshtha Amayasya Titi which fall on today itself.

Lord Shani Dev is estranged son of Sun God. He embodies the planet (Graha). He plays a significant role in the lives of people. Nobody can escape from the Karmic deeds he/she performs – it is said, he keeps his (Tedi eye – tilted eye) a sharp eye on everybody’s deeds or misdeeds. He is the deity who favours those are empathetic towards others needs.

Vedic Mahamantra for Lord Shanidev is given below:-

‘Om Nilanjan Samabhasam, Raviputram Yamagrajan.
Chhaya Martand SambhutumTamn Namami Shanishwaram.’

OM SHAM SANICHAR AYE NAMAN

It is stresses that those who suffer for a prolonged period of time should pray sincerely; keeping body and mind purity. They could be relieved of all the hard times persisting in an individual’s life.

It should never be forgotten that Shanidevji’s trait, which were granted to Him by Lord Shiva is that He punishes for the sins without discrimination. For any fault, He even punishes Gods and Demi Gods. For him, nobody is above natural laws. Commit bad Karmic Deeds,  He awards punishment without delay besides providing rewards for good Karmic Deeds and that too without bias.

It is on every Saturdays that the devotees worship Him, of course with some rituals, but with full fondest love and devotion – with purity in the body and mind. His sincere prayers cannot go unanswered. It is the day specially dedicated for Lord Shani Dev Ji. MAY LORD SHANIDEV BESTOWS PEACE AND PROSPERITY.

Lord Shani Dev Ji’s bounties are required more at the present times than ever since everybody is facing hardship due to Covid-19 pandemic. The continuous lockdowns has resulted in job losses and business losses. There is anxieties about the health and wellness of everybody. Therefore, His blessings are of special significance.

While negotiating the ups and downs of our lives, we come across problems, these problems could be due to our own mistakes or partly destined. When we are unable to solve those problems, we have to believe on faith healing. If nothing works, our Creator’s healing touch works wonders.

Amongst the trinities; Lords Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh are assigned the duties of Creation, Operation/Evolution and Destruction respectively. Lord Shanidev is responsible for punishing for our sins in this life itself. He does not pardon for our faults. Not only the humans even the Gods cannot escape His wrath. He is one of the 9 sons of Lord Sun (Surya). He also gives us rewards for our good deeds. His blessings are sought after. He is black in colour and even the colour of his robe is black. The other son is Yama whose responsibility is to take the Souls to their proper place after death in accordance with their Karma.

LEGEND OF LORD SHANI DEVJI AT SHINGAPUR SHANI DHAM

There is verifiable legend about the existence of Lord Shani Dev. It is said that about 350 years back, there was a heavy rain. Pananala was flooded. Villagers saw a huge stone like thing, made up of iron and stone entangled with the berry tree. This had come in the floods. The villagers, out of curiosity, poked a stick at the stone. To their utter surprise, blood started oozing from the rockhard stone.

At night one of a village devotee had a dream. Shanidev told him to pick the idol from the place but it should be done only by those who are related as maternal uncle and nephew. People tried their level best to lift the idol of Shanidev but in vain. Finally, it was decided that it ought to be installed at the place where it was found after floods. A quadrangular terrace was made since it was observed that buried portion of the idol was more than the exposed one. No shelter was made because of Shanidev’s wishes.

Sometimes back I had the privilege of visiting Shinganapur Shani Dham. It is 70 Kms away from Shirdi in Maharashtra. It is located on Highway No. 60 in Ahmednagar District of Maharashtra. The scenery on both the sides of the road is really enchanting from Shirdi to Shingnapur. The pomegranate gardens, the rose gardens, and sugarcane fields enliven our body, mind and soul. Almost two hours journey from Shirdi is indeed refreshing.

This village covers an area of 160 hectors. In olden times, the population of the village was very less only 20-30 huts but this village has increased manifold. There used to be only 20-30 kacha houses but now pucca houses, besides school, hotels, banks, imposing bus stand are also there. But one thing that is common in all is: I have personally observed that residents do not lock their houses because there is no thievery. Really surprising! It was also mentioned by the people that up till now there is no police complaint. People of this village are highly spiritual and helpful and to cap it all hospitable to the core.

There were many true stories attached to Shanidev. There was an incident of taking away a pair of bullock. The thieves took them to more than 30 kms from the village. Having got tired, they wanted to take a nap. When they got up, they found themselves at Shinganapur itself. The villagers found them but forgave them as they confessed their fault.

IMPORTANCE OF SHINGNAPUR SHANI DHAM

• It is a place where no theft, robbery happens. No complaints to the police till date.

• Nobody ever have seen ghost etc in the area.

• There is a peace and harmony amongst the people of different castes/religions.

• No cheating at this place. Quick justice of anybody resorts to this.

• No one behaves with distrust here.

• People are cooperative, hospitable and kind.

• Maan Lakshmi temple is located near Shasni dham.

• On the new moon day, people come to Shanidham for prayers and get protection for the misfortunes. He protects all from the enemies.

• Shanidev could be pleased when people pray Him with pious heart.

• He is Justice Dispenser. He does not forgive the evil doers that is why people fear Him the most.

• He loves black colour.

• He protects those who are shunned by the society.

• He is the Lord of knowledge and helps to enhance business related to iron, transportation etc.

• Welfare of the general masses is His priority.

• Nothing to be kept on the head while having his dharshan.

• Shanidev Ji is very kind hearted for troubled souls but purity is His important condition for his boon.

My sincere prayers to Lord Shanidev Ji to grant peace globally so that the peoples of the world are relieved from the uncertainty prevailing around the world.

In essence, we pray to God so that He may remain bestowing His blessings on us and deliver us from any difficult situation which may befall without any inkling about it. How can we be a candidate for His mercies? May be, it is not that He remains distributing His bounties whosoever asks for these. There has to be a solid belief or faith for Him. Mere half belief system or shaky mindset will hardly help. Such a thoughts, in fact, creates or inculcates confusing conditions for us. Prevailing confusion engenders a mass of confusions about his Graces.

OUR BOUNTIFUL GIFTS LIKE AIR, WATER, SUNLIGHT BESIDDES FOOD FOR OUR SURVIVAL

It is also axiomatic that our Creator has gifted us with innumerable bounties which we enjoy ad infinitum without which our existence on this beautiful earth is not possible. For instance, the air we breath, the water we drink, the sunshine we cherish are the precious gifts of Mother Nature. And, can we survive even for a limited span of time without these gifts. Lo and behold, these priceless gifts are bestowed to us without any payment. Instead of showcasing our gratitude for providing us these life sustaining gifts, we remain spoiling these gifts through our unethical actions. How thankless we humans could be! We spread pollutants and spoil the water bodies, even ether or atmosphere is not spared thru our actions; spewing harmful gases in the atmosphere. Then, we’ve to thank God for food without which our life on this beautiful earth would not be possible.

OUR EGOCENTRIC TENDENCIES SPOILS OUR SPIRITUAL MARCH

We humans think that everything that is available is due to their efforts or persistence.; bereft of any intervention of HIGHER FORCES. But when a farmer ploughs his land and put his maximum efforts, even then nothing tangible happens without timely rain or sunlight etc. for maximum yield from his fields. Here too God’s intervention is required. Our egocentric tendencies will not come to our rescue with ego remains a spoiler for our spiritual march.