Vyasa Puja 2021

“The root cause of devotional service to Lord Krishna is association with advanced devotees. Even when one's dormant love for Krishna awakens, association with devotees is still most essential.” (Chaitanya Charitamrita, Madhya 22.83)

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कृष्ण-भक्ति-जन्म-मूल हय ऽसाधु-सङ्गऽ
कृष्ण-प्रेम जन्मे, तेङ्हो पुनः मुख्य अङ्ग

kṛṣṇa-bhakti-janma-mūla haya 'sādhu-saṅga'
kṛṣṇa-prema janme, teṅho punaḥ mukhya aṅga

 

Devotional service will make a person happy; happier than anything else can. There is no qualification to this claim. No hedge. No exception to the rule. It is a universal truth, for the principle is rooted in dharma, which is the essence of living.

There may be a variety of religious traditions practiced and adhered to around the world. Within a single country you might find a handful of popular faiths, with their respective deities, books held in high esteem, and important personalities who roamed the world and preached the truth.

Despite the variety, dharma is always one. For this reason, the closest equivalent to the term “religion” in the Vedic tradition is sanatana-dharma. The essential characteristic of the living being, who defines an existence at the local level and also together at the collective within a specific population, is without beginning and without end.

There was never a time when the living being took birth. We have the brief history in the current lifetime. This is the known ancestry, but man’s recollection is imperfect. We cannot go back infinitely in the past and know exactly where we were at a specific period of time. The same applies to moving forward, travelling into the future.

At every point in the timeline of existence, dharma is the same. My essential characteristic is identical to yours. Dharma cannot be removed, even by force. The tragic event of death caused by infiltration of attacking enemies is merely the destruction of the temporary body. The soul continues to live.

न जायते म्रियते वा कदाचिन्
नायं भूत्वा भविता वा न भूयः
अजो नित्यः शाश्वतो ऽयं पुराणो
न हन्यते हन्यमाने शरीरे

na jāyate mriyate vā kadācin
nāyaṁ bhūtvā bhavitā vā na bhūyaḥ
ajo nityaḥ śāśvato ‘yaṁ purāṇo
na hanyate hanyamāne śarīre

“For the soul there is never birth nor death. Nor, having once been, does he ever cease to be. He is unborn, eternal, ever-existing, undying and primeval. He is not slain when the body is slain.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 2.20)

The dharma of the individual is to serve. The ideal object of service is the Supreme Personality of Godhead. He is soul just like me, but of a different nature. I am individual, conditioned soul, jivatma. He is the Supreme Consciousness, distributed everywhere, though a single entity. He is Supersoul, Paramatma.

On the occasion of Vyasa Puja, we honor the appearance in this world of the supreme spiritual guide, the guru. He is the representative of Vyasadeva, and he reawakens my dormant consciousness through both instruction and example. I was otherwise wandering in the darkness, jumping from one temporary interest to another. I was suffering the entire time, though unaware through brief but frequent escapades in escape from the senses.

We learn that the root cause of devotional service is the association of saintly people. We need someone to show us the way. We cannot discover the miracle of the universe and its creation through our own research effort. The breadth and volume of information is too much to consume, and there is not enough time within a single lifetime to gather all of the data, let alone come to a rational conclusion as to its meaning.

His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada essentially opens the entire universe to me. Without having to move an inch in the physical sense, I can travel to any place I wish. Using the mind, I behold the splendor of the Divine, whose potency cannot be accurately measured by instruments, adhokshaja.

The guru shows the way in an eternal engagement, where there is renewing optimism, opportunity, and bliss. He explains that the meaning of an existence is to be aligned with dharma, to serve God and to always think of Him. He uses the authority of Bhagavad-gita as support.

मन्-मना भव मद्-भक्तो
मद्-याजी मां नमस्कुरु
माम् एवैष्यसि युक्त्वैवम्
आत्मानं मत्-परायणः

man-manā bhava mad-bhakto
mad-yājī māṁ namaskuru
mām evaiṣyasi yuktvaivam
ātmānaṁ mat-parāyaṇaḥ

“Engage your mind always in thinking of Me, offer obeisances and worship Me. Being completely absorbed in Me, surely you will come to Me.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 9.34)

There is no way to properly repay the favor except to continue in devotion, to attempt to be a small example to others, in the hopes that they will also find eternal happiness. The goal is not to strive to increase the numbers in the flock, to convert a certain number of people to a new religion, or to boast over the successful propagation of a timeless tradition.

क्षिप्रं भवति धर्मात्मा
शश्वच्-छान्तिं निगच्छति
कौन्तेय प्रतिजानीहि
न मे भक्तः प्रणश्यति

kṣipraṁ bhavati dharmātmā
śaśvac-chāntiṁ nigacchati
kaunteya pratijānīhi
na me bhaktaḥ praṇaśyati

“He quickly becomes righteous and attains lasting peace. O son of Kunti, declare it boldly that My devotee never perishes.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 9.31)

The focus is on glorifying God and taking pleasure in seeing others happily engaged in the same service, which will do the best for them. The guru may not be universally popular during their time in the preaching world. They may face tremendous difficulties and obstacles along the way, but with Bhagavan as support there is never destruction in the link.

In Closing:

What better can one give?
Than with happiness to live.

Where the whole world opened for me,
Connection to Divine always to see.

The guru my fortunes to save,
Pathway to liberation gave.

Honoring the next and this day,
Possible never properly to repay.

Krishna Janmashtami 2021

“A nice band played, and the people assembled enjoyed it. All the learned brahmanas were invited, and they chanted Vedic hymns for the good fortune of Krishna. During the chanting of the Vedic hymns and playing of the bands, Krishna was bathed by mother Yashoda. This bathing ceremony is technically called abhisheka, and even today this is observed in all the temples of Vrindavana as Janmashtami Day, or the birthday anniversary of Lord Krishna.” (Krishna, The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Vol 1, Ch 7)

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We hear so much from the acharya about the need to practice devotional service. We must implement the principles of bhakti-yoga in our daily lives. Follow through on the definition of bhagavata-dharma; make that a way of living instead of an extracurricular activity. Have the devotion become part of you, rather than remain a side discipline with an independent existence.

We might be confused as to exactly what that lifestyle looks like. I know pizza from its taste, but I can be sure from the visual. The picture reveals the identity, and with the devotional culture what exactly are the characteristics to look for?

We know that pretenders infiltrate organizations and institutions. In the popular style of government today, the worst of the worst rise to the top. The better you are at lying, the more likely you are to get elected. It seems that the more corrupt you are, the more authority you are given. You tell everyone else to live a certain way, all the while exempting yourself from the rules.

The occasion of Janmashtami helps to give an idea on the practical aspects of devotional service. It is an annual celebration, commemorating the appearance of Shri Krishna in this world. He is the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Bhagavan. He possesses six opulences simultaneously and to the fullest extent: beauty, wealth, strength, fame, wisdom and renunciation.

यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य
ग्लानिर् भवति भारत
अभ्युत्थानम् अधर्मस्य
तदात्मानं सृजाम्य् अहम्

yadā yadā hi dharmasya
glānir bhavati bhārata
abhyutthānam adharmasya
tadātmānaṁ sṛjāmy aham

“Whenever and wherever there is a decline in religious practice, O descendant of Bharata, and a predominant rise of irreligion - at that time I descend Myself.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 4.7)

With Krishna’s pastimes on earth there is even a birthday celebration. The people of Vrindavana mark the occasion of Janmasthami while Krishna is in their presence. The priestly class gets invited to the home. Bands play devotional music. Everyone dresses themselves nicely.

Mother Yashoda has the preferred seat. She is close by. She gets to bathe her child personally, but this does not disqualify any of the other participants from the devotional connection. That is to say, everyone is worshiping in their own way, and they are thus connected in yoga.

The same variety applies to the devotional culture outside of the situation of direct, physical contact. A person in the maya consciousness may be preparing food to consume for the nighttime, in the hopes of satisfying their senses. Another person is following the exact same sequence of actions, but their intent is different. They are preparing food for the satisfaction of Krishna. Their sacrifice in time is equivalent with yajna. There is no difference between their work and the recitation of mantras in a formal worship ceremony by an expert priest.

Even if I lack mobility, having no chance to work physically in favor of supporting the Almighty and those devoted to Him, there is always the opportunity to at least hear. This is also devotional service. It is the first in the list mentioned by Prahlada Maharaja, in his enumeration of activities described to those who are not familiar.

Shravanam; just hear about God. Dedicate some time each day. It is not a difficult process, but the benefits are tremendous. On special occasions like Janmashtami take extra time to remember Krishna, the person we are all meant to adore. He is neither a sectarian God nor a concoction of the mind. He is the Supreme Lord in full, with the detail to the abstract, with the curtain removed, so to speak.

If there happens to be an intense longing to bathe Krishna in the same way that mother Yashoda did, the Supreme Lord is kind enough to appear in the deity form. The same abhisheka ceremony can take place at home, while no one is watching. God’s eyes are everywhere, so He will always notice. He never forgets even a single deed done in His favor.

In Closing:

Even a single deed to take,
Never the memory to forsake.

Since everywhere His eyes,
Blessed the one who tries.

In devotional life taught,
By guru who Divinity brought.

To this world shining the light,
Like on Janmashtami’s night.

Narasimha Chaturdashi 2021

“Desiring to kill his son Prahlada, who was a great devotee of Lord Vishnu, Hiranyakashipu tortured him in many ways.” (Shrimad Bhagavatam, 7.1.42)

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हिरण्यकशिपुः पुत्रं
प्रह्लादं केशव-प्रियम्
जिघांसुर् अकरोन् नाना
यातना मृत्यु-हेतवे

hiraṇyakaśipuḥ putraṁ
prahlādaṁ keśava-priyam
jighāṁsur akaron nānā
yātanā mṛtyu-hetave

Friend1: All glories to Narasimha. All respectful obeisances offered at the lotus feet of this amazing avatara of Vishnu, the Supreme Personality of Godhead.

Friend2: The half-man/half-lion incarnation. The transcendental form matched specifically to the boons of protection offered to the Daitya king, Hiranyakashipu.

Friend1: It would be more accurate to say that Narasimha was there to meet the vulnerabilities in that protection.

Friend2: As immortality is not possible, Hiranyakashipu could not very well create the same through component parts. He sure did try, and Brahma was willing to oblige. The creator, pleased with the devotee’s level of austerity and penance, was ready to offer anything asked for.

Friend1: Up to the point of immortality, which even Brahma does not possess. I always find it interesting when someone is afraid of the image of Narasimha.

Friend2: You do?

Friend1: It is just that I have never had that reaction. I completely understand the purpose of that amazing avatara, who we celebrate on the auspicious occasion of Narasimha Chaturdashi.

Friend2: Seeing a lion holding an adult male on its lap and tearing it apart using nails doesn’t concern you in the slightest?

Friend1: Absolutely not. If you accidentally come upon the image, I guess that reaction is understandable. If you know the backstory, however, you wonder what took Vishnu so long to appear.

Friend2: And what is that backstory?

Friend1: That the king of the Daityas had the misfortune, as he saw it, to produce a son whose allegiance was to Vishnu. The devotion showed at an early age, and by five years Hiranyakashipu was fed up.

Friend2: What did he do?

Friend1: He tried peaceful means, at first. A sort of deprogramming attempt, of ancient times, the teachers were ordered to get Prahlada’s mind right. The boy should be focusing on ruling a kingdom, on concentrating power, on maintaining the treasury, on keeping enemies in check, and so forth.

Friend2: In other words, the family business.

Friend1: It didn’t work. Prahlada kept talking about Vishnu and the importance of the human birth as it relates to succeeding in spiritual life. The child even lectured other students in school. This led Hiranyakashipu to attempt lethal force.

Friend2: Kill Prahlada.

Friend1: Except it didn’t work. The demon employed a variety of measures precisely because Prahlada kept surviving. What kind of sick person would do that to their own son?

Friend2: Someone sick enough to maintain their hold on the illusion of their atheistic way of life. If Prahlada was telling the truth, it meant that Hiranyakashipu lived in a house of cards, one that was destined to crumble.

Friend1: One thing led to another, and eventually Vishnu appeared from a pillar. He technically wasn’t a beast or a human. He ended up killing Hiranyakashipu, but in a way that did not violate any of the boons previously offered by Brahma.

Friend2: In that gruesome image you see Prahlada Maharaja offering a garland of flowers to Narasimha. While everyone else was afraid, the devoted Daitya child was not.

Friend1: In the aftermath, everything was forgiven. Prahlada himself asked that Hiranyakashipu be pardoned. This is something I have a difficult time understanding. In the news today, we hear of horrible things happening to the defenseless, such as women and children. The people who are justifiably outraged demand justice; they want the offenders punished to the severest extent.

Friend2: Makes sense.

Friend1: Yet no one was violated more than Prahlada. No one was tortured in such a way; not before and not since. Prahlada asked for forgiveness for the father. Vishnu agreed. It is a little difficult to understand.

Friend2: To understand Prahlada, this is in the nature of a saintly person. They understand how material desire [kama] can interfere with better judgment. They know that a person acts according to their nature, and Hiranyakashipu was born in the race of demons.

Friend1: Why would Vishnu forgive, though? This was a great offense against His dear and innocent devotee.

Friend2: There is a backstory. Hiranyakashipu is actually an eternal servant, a doorkeeper in the Vaikuntha realm. His falling to the material world due to a curse is not actually a fall in the typical sense. The doorkeeper descends to play a role in a dramatic play, where the protagonist is Vishnu. Therefore, the whole affair is something like out of a dream; there is no substance to it.

Friend1: I think people might have a difficult time understanding that.

Friend2: Narasimha also sat on the throne of Hiranyakashipu. This is the Supreme Lord accepting something offered by the devotee. There are many such intricacies to these dealings, and on auspicious occasions we have the chance to remember, contemplate, and appreciate moving forward.

In Closing:

For servant so dear,
From pillar to appear.

In that Daitya kingdom where,
With nails of lion to tear.

The boons previously to gain,
Brahma’s word to maintain.

But Prahlada that time to save,
And liberation to father gave.

Rama Navami 2021

“Being under the control of passion and lust, Rama’s father, Maharaja Dasharatha, wanted to fulfill Kaikeyi’s cherished desire, thus he did not go through with Rama’s installation ceremony.” (Sita Devi speaking to Ravana, Valmiki Ramayana, Aranya Kand, 47.12)

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कामार्तस्तु महातेजाः पिता दशरथस्स्वयम्।।
कैकेय्याः प्रियकामार्थं तं रामं नाभ्यषेचयत्।

kāmārtastu mahātejāḥ pitā daśarathassvayam।।
kaikeyyāḥ priyakāmārthaṃ taṃ rāmaṃ nābhyaṣecayat।

The occasion of Rama Navami celebrates the appearance in this manifest world of the one who is forever unmanifest. He has no distinction between body and spirit. He is eternally nirguna, in juxtaposition to our current position of saguna. That same Almighty is simultaneously saguna, in the sense that there are identifiable features.

Shri Rama, the eldest son of King Dasharatha, gives a vivid example of those features, for the enjoyment of the population of the world and also to instruct them in the ways and glories of the one who is the original father and greatest well-wishing friend to every single being.

Jiva is life. Jiva is tied to atma, and that atma can never be killed. It is never born, it can never be destroyed, it never dies, and it never shuts down. Birth is the arrival in the sense of the jivatma connecting with a temporary and destructible vessel. Death is the subsequent dismissal of that form previously accepted.

Shri Rama is not in the category of jiva-tattva. He never accepts a material body, and so He never has to renounce one. He is vishnu-tattva, and for many purposes, including the rescue of jivas living at the time and in the future, Rama appeared in this world.

He had a distinct purpose of following dharma to the best extent possible. He was to set an ideal example of how to live, especially for a leader. He showed the various difficulties a human being faces throughout life and how to get through the tough times with grace, honor, dignity, and no loss of enthusiasm and effort.

At a young age Rama lost His father. King Dasharatha mistakenly trusted his youngest wife one time in the past. She had helped him on the battlefield, and Dasharatha repaid the favor by offering her any two boons of her choosing. Not one, but two blank checks, which Kaikeyi could cash in any time. Though he was a warrior equipped to handle enemies attacking from the ten directions simultaneously, Dasharatha was the nicest person one could imagine. A saint in the truest sense of the word.

Unfortunately, Kaikeyi later cashed in those blank checks at a very inopportune time. She asked that Rama’s installation ceremony be cancelled and that He leave the kingdom for fourteen years. Imagine if your favorite child was sent to jail for that long a time, after they had done nothing wrong. You would not be able to see them or hear from them. How would you survive?

Dasharatha didn’t. Shortly after Rama left, the king renounced the world. Rama had no issue following the orders. He abandoned the kingdom like a yogi abandons attachment to eating and sleeping. Rama loved His father very much, but affection did not stand in the way of duty.

After later hearing the news of Dasharatha’s departure, Rama easily could have returned to Ayodhya. No one would expect Him to honor the terms of the agreement with the wife. At that time no one was happy with Kaikeyi, anyway. No one would be upset if her desires were left unfulfilled. The people would be thrilled that their beloved Rama had returned.

Dasharatha’s eldest son stayed true to the vow. He carried out the entire fourteen year exile. Rama had many further difficulties to endure. His wife, Sita Devi, had to suffer in the process. As did Rama’s younger brother, Lakshmana.

Dasharatha’s passing could have crippled Rama. After all, the four expansions of Vishnu were the long awaited sons of the king. It was through a chance meeting with a rishi and a subsequent religious sacrifice that produced the fruit necessary to keep the family line going. It was not as if Dasharatha didn’t enjoy every minute spent with his sons.

Rama chose to honor the legacy of His father, of the king maintaining truth, honor and dignity so that the citizens would have a proper leader. To this day, that celebrated incarnation of Vishnu is still our leader. He sacrifices for those close to Him, and our meager and humble effort in return is to sacrifice a little time each day to sing His glories found in sacred mantras passed down to us by the acharyas: Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.

In Closing:

For father’s word to maintain,
Renouncing kingdom after gain.

Rama to the forest then went,
And entire fourteen years spent.

Sacrifice in this way making,
So that trust of king taking.

Worship on Rama Navami day,
Small way the favor to repay.

Holi 2021

“O son of Kunti [Arjuna], I am the taste of water, the light of the sun and the moon, the syllable om in the Vedic mantras; I am the sound in ether and ability in man.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 7.8)

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रसो ऽहम् अप्सु कौन्तेय
प्रभास्मि शशि-सूर्ययोः
प्रणवः सर्व-वेदेषु
शब्दः खे पौरुषं नृषु

raso ‘ham apsu kaunteya
prabhāsmi śaśi-sūryayoḥ
praṇavaḥ sarva-vedeṣu
śabdaḥ khe pauruṣaṁ nṛṣu

On the occasion of Holi, we focus on and celebrate the exceptional ability in one person. A five-year old boy at the time, he even impressed the envious father, who was an adversary. He proved a truth explained in Bhagavad-gita, that the human being requires gifts from above in order to act.

We marvel at the extraordinary things others are able to do. One person describes it as, “Talent on loan from God.” They are proud enough to realize they are in a special category in terms of performance. At the same time, they are humble enough to know that not everything is in their control.

You can place two people in front of a microphone. The same age, the same hometown, the same gender, and perhaps roughly the same weight. The first person is too frightened to speak. They are unsure of themselves, and they feel embarrassed that others have to hear their voice.

The second person is right at home. They can speak for hours, uninterrupted, on a variety of topics. They do not require guests or callers to appear on the show. They can follow the same routine, day after day, for decades.

There are many such miracles occurring all the time, impressing those who are witness to the excellence.

1. Create original content, day after day

Similar to displaying exceptional broadcasting ability, a single individual can create new content for others to consume on a daily basis. The genesis is the mind. Unlike the supposed comedy hosts on late-night television, there isn’t a large staff of writers. There is some use of items in the news, but even on a slow news day this person can find items worthy of discussion.

2. Handle the pressure of being number one in their field

Everyone else is gunning for them. They have surpassed the competition. At the beginning of the process, no less, they zoomed ahead. Now everyone is in the rearview mirror. The norms of the industry shattered. What was previously considered impossible is no longer so. They are so good at what they do that they maintain a stranglehold on a particular period of time in the day.

No one dares go against them, and yet this person handles the pressure without issue. They have an entire company, with many employees, relying solely on them. The CEO of the large corporation may be vital to the original formation, but eventually they can move on and everything will still keep running. That is not the case with this one performer; he is solely responsible for the revenue stream.

3. Meeting admirers with politeness and kindness

A single person is so popular that wherever they go they find supporters. At the airport. On the golf course. Within the halls of Congress. The admirers are not afraid to approach this person. There is a closeness established through the listening process. They feel as if this person is family, though they have never met them previously.

The person who is the celebrity in this case amazingly maintains a cool disposition. The approaching admirers are greeted with a smile. The celebrity wants to make sure that nothing goes wrong with the interaction. They think that another person should never walk away from the encounter feeling short-changed.

4. Recalling facts at a moment’s notice

More so than excelling at a trivia contest, a single person might be able to remember people and events spanning decades. They do so rather quickly, inserting the appropriate context. They do not rely on others for backup or an internet search to fill in the pieces. This amazing recall-ability comes in handy in their specific profession.

5. Giving generously when others are not asking

A single person has plenty of wealth, and so others naturally gravitate towards the pot. They are with their hands outstretched, but the person in possession discriminates. They do not waste their money, but at the same time they are overly generous. They give to causes they feel are important, and sometimes without anyone asking. Their level of generosity surprises everyone, and most don’t learn the true depth until the person has passed on. They did most of their giving anonymously, as they did not want to draw unnecessary attention to themselves.

…

These are but a few examples of the amazing things a single human being is capable of. With Prahlada Maharaja, the victories were extraordinary since he was unwittingly placed into competition with his father. Hiranyakashipu wanted to inflict lethal punishment. The child’s crime was unwavering support and allegiance towards the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Lord Vishnu.

Prahlada survived being thrown off a cliff. Biting, venomous snakes did nothing to him. He made it out from the bottom of the ocean. He was focused on Supersoul the entire time. This is Vishnu’s expansion residing within the heart.

We are never alone. God is always with us. Supersoul is our link to others. Even when they have passed on, with the soul moving to another body, the Supreme Lord is always with them. If we can communicate with God the person, then we always have some sort of link to others, even if indirect.

Holi commemorates the time Hiranyakashipu tried to kill Prahlada by placing him into a fire. The witch named Holika had the unique ability to withstand fire. She took Prahlada in her lap and went to carry out the wicked deed.

It was Prahlada who survived. Holika did not. The ability in man is due to the Supreme Lord. This means that even if a person is exceptional in a certain area, that level of ability can drop to ordinary in a moment. Prahlada never wavered in support of Vishnu, and we will never forget His amazing contribution to the tradition of bhakti, which continues to this day.

In Closing:

All obeisances to him paid,
For amazing contribution made.

Attacks of father withstanding,
At the end alive standing.

Because ability on loan,
Vishnu everything to own.

Devotion of servants protecting,
Who everywhere His presence detecting.

Govardhana Puja 2020

“As the director of different kinds of clouds, Indra called for the samvartaka. This cloud is invited when there is a need to devastate the whole cosmic manifestation. The samvartaka was ordered by Indra to go over Vrindavana and inundate the whole area with an extensive flood. Demonically, Indra thought himself to be the all-powerful supreme personality.” (Krishna, The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Vol 1, Ch 25)

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Might is right? Survival of the fittest? The strongest person is automatically the best? He with the most money should be honored and worshiped by society? That person wielding the most influence is best equipped to be leader? The occasion of Govardhana Puja reminds us how there is no match for the potency found in the Supreme Personality of Godhead and how He properly discriminates in revealing the extent of that potency.

Today it is an annual tradition, but it began as a rebellious act. Nanda Maharaja’s son was something like an iconoclast. No one would suspect Him of nefarious motives, as Krishna was a mere child. Innocent and adorable, though able to survive potentially lethal attacks from the worst of the asuras, who visited from the nearby town of Mathura.

Nanda was the king of the farm community known as Gokula. Too many cows in his possession to count. Living off the land, free of exploitation. Every person happy and satisfied in their occupation of choice, matching their nature. At one with the beautiful creation surrounding them, appreciating everything God’s mercy has to offer.

Pious in every way, the people were rewarded with the direct presence of the Almighty in the avatara known as Krishna. God is indeed a person, and He can appear in front of us in so many ways. He is neither limited to the unmanifest concept nor prohibited from action which invites subsequent worship.

Whatever Krishna does is dharma. He is the object of religion. He is the source of the material and spiritual worlds, and He is the origin of the instruction manual, so to speak, for living within those worlds.

अहं सर्वस्य प्रभवो
मत्तः सर्वं प्रवर्तते
इति मत्वा भजन्ते मां
बुधा भाव-समन्विताः

ahaṁ sarvasya prabhavo
mattaḥ sarvaṁ pravartate
iti matvā bhajante māṁ
budhā bhāva-samanvitāḥ

“I am the source of all spiritual and material worlds. Everything emanates from Me. The wise who know this perfectly engage in My devotional service and worship Me with all their hearts.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 10.8)

There is a small amount of independence in those worlds for the living entities, who are sparks, amshas, emanating from the original spiritual energy. That means you and I have the freedom to choose in which direction to go. I can stay with Krishna or I can try to compete with Him, which involves forgetfulness of His position.

When travelling in the direction of competition, there is potential for promotion to the highest post: king of heaven. I could be the leader of svarga-loka, the place where the pious land after the completion of life. The term “dying and going to heaven” equates to promotion to the svarga-loka region, according to the Vedic tradition.

Such a promotion should never be equated with becoming God or even wielding the most influence in the world. A conditioned soul remains conditioned if they have the material consciousness. In the first Govardhana Puja, we see Indra succumbing to petty jealousy, directed at a child, no less.

The people skipped the sacrifice in Indra’s honor that year. No malice intended. Krishna convinced Nanda to worship Govardhana Hill, instead. There was a method behind the madness. There was a purpose to breaking from tradition.

Indra decided to retaliate with overwhelming force. Assert your dominance over those that you rule. Prove to everyone that you are indeed God. If Indra were actually so, he would not need to display any potency or magic. There would be no reason to justify horrible behavior in order to remind yourself of how much power you have.

What would normally be considered devastating rain, instigated by the samvartaka cloud, did not make a dent in the place guarded by Krishna. The young son of Nanda simply lifted the just-worshiped Govardhana Hill and held it above His head for seven straight days. The world’s largest umbrella thwarted Indra’s attack.

Krishna could have shown this might at the beginning. Just as a way to scare people, to prove wrong the doubters, to remove any ambiguity to the situation. But it wasn’t necessary. The real God is always sure of His abilities. He does not need to prove anything to anyone.

On the other hand, even if we rise to the position of king of heaven, we will always be looking over our shoulder, to see if a challenger is encroaching upon our territory. This is all Krishna’s space, to begin with, and so the devotees have no reason to fear or be paranoid. They are never in competition with the Almighty, who can protect them through even inanimate objects like a hill.

In Closing:

Through inanimate object protecting,
When that hill into air projecting.

So defeated Indra’s strength,
Where retaliation severe in length.

Never this way inferior to feel,
Krishna in standing real.

So beautiful that puja to see,
Lifter of Govardhana is He.

Diwali 2020

“Today evening in the city of Raghuvira there is great splendor and beauty. The Lord of Ayodhya is seeing the lovely festival of Diwali, which does so much good.” (Gitavali, 309.01)

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साँझ समय रघुबीर-पुरीकी सोभा आजु बनी |
ललित दीपमालिका बिलोकहिं हित करि अवधधनी ||

sām̐jha samaya raghubīra-purīkī sobhā āju banī |
lalita dīpamālikā bilokahiṁ hita kari avadhadhanī ||

Sometimes, it takes just one light, lit in one home, shining on one night, directed towards one person and His family, recognizing the one accomplishment, where He overcame that one villain, to correct the many wrongs that went on for too long.

There are many reasons to be thankful for the gifts of the Almighty, and on the occasion of Diwali the devotees of the Supreme Personality of Godhead remember His victorious return to the sacred land of Ayodhya, where the people were uninhibited in their outpouring of affection.

You arrived in this world

“Shastra teaches that Bhagavan, the person otherwise known as God in the vague sense by the rest of the world, descends to this world personally, in His svarupa, whenever and wherever He sees fit, to remedy gross negligence in adherence to righteous principles and to stem the growing tide of wicked intent and execution of nefarious deeds.

यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य
ग्लानिर् भवति भारत
अभ्युत्थानम् अधर्मस्य
तदात्मानं सृजाम्य् अहम्

yadā yadā hi dharmasya
glānir bhavati bhārata
abhyutthānam adharmasya
tadātmānaṁ sṛjāmy aham

“Whenever and wherever there is a decline in religious practice, O descendant of Bharata, and a predominant rise of irreligion - at that time I descend Myself.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 4.7)

“Thank you for choosing Ayodhya as the site for one of those appearances, where you take birth, in the transcendental sense, as the eldest son of King Dasharatha. Known affectionately as Rama, the eldest of the four brothers, you are the life and soul of the citizens, who follow the lead of the pious monarch.”

You upheld your father’s honor

“Thank you for making the unimaginable sacrifice of leaving the kingdom for fourteen years, just when you were about to succeed your father on the throne. It was to protect His honor that you left voluntarily, maintaining his solemn promise previously offered to the queen named Kaikeyi.

“While we were sad to see you leave, you would not let sentiment get in the way of duty. We tried to follow you, but for our own benefit you finally snuck away unnoticed, leaving us to return home and await your arrival, which seemed too far in the distance to ever become a reality.

You defeated Ravana

“Thank you for removing the menace to society that was Ravana and his large population of man-eating ogres, who were concentrated in Lanka. These night-rangers had no issue taking excursions to remote forests to harass innocent sages. These were the worst of the worst, and they even tried to attack you.

“The deck was stacked against, in fact. One man fighting against fourteen thousand, who could change their shapes at will. Ravana wouldn’t enter a fair fight, though he boasted of his ability. You taught him the greatest lesson, that God is always unconquerable, Ajita.

You returned home

“As parting was sweet sorrow, we were so thrilled to have you return. A triumphant voyage back on the aerial car known as Pushpaka, accompanied by Sita and Lakshmana. You were kind enough to bring some of the principal men in your Vanara army with you. Only you could have such an amazing servant as Hanuman working tirelessly for the interests of good.”

You are our king for life

“We welcomed you home with an array of lamps. The entire city celebrated in this way. From high to low, from rich to poor, from man to woman, from leader to servant, there was unity in diversity, displaying the ideal society which can only be found in a place centrally focused on serving your lotus feet.

“We will continue to honor you every day, but especially on the annual occasion of Diwali. While you may one day have to depart for the spiritual world, we will never feel separated from you. God is good, and you are the greatest. May you be our protector in every successive birth that we may happen to experience.”

In Closing:

On Pushpaka car flown,
Lamps of residents shone.

For greatest welcome demonstration,
Where too long in separation.

Thankful that even originally came,
Dasharatha’s son of Rama the name.

And the wicked Ravana eventually defeating,
Through you evil and fear retreating.

Radhashtami 2020

“Shrimati Radharani is the center of all Vrindavana's activities. In Vrindavana, Krishna is the instrument of Shrimati Radharani; therefore all the inhabitants of Vrindavana still chant ‘Jaya Radhe.’” (Shrila Prabhupada, Chaitanya Charitamrita, Madhya 13.150 Purport)

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Friend1: I know that Shri Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, is not alone. He has Radharani by His side.

Friend2: In certain depictions, yes.

Friend1: What do you mean?

Friend2: Well, sometimes, you have Krishna alongside the Queen of Dvaraka, Rukmini Devi. In some temples He will be with Satyabhama, another queen.

Friend1: Oh, right. I see what you mean. The focus today is on Radha-Krishna. I know they are factual personalities; not figments of the imagination. But there is also some symbolism to the image.

Friend2: How so?

Friend1: In what they represent. The male and female aspects of the Divine.

Friend2: True. God is one, but here you have two different sides to that one. Neither is necessarily inferior or subordinate.

Friend1: Radharani is also known as the goddess of fortune, Lakshmi. In this way, Krishna is the husband of the goddess of fortune.

Friend2: Which is the reason for another name, Madhava. You also have Shripati and Lakshmipati.

Friend1: That is so nice. I like how there are many forms of address. You can choose one to your liking and be equally as benefitted.

Friend2: The Supreme Lord is unlimited, after all. He could never be restricted to a single name, a single point of view, a single perspective, or a single tradition of spirituality. Sort of like how the sun goes by different names depending on which part of the world you live. Yet the sun is still the same; there aren’t multiple versions of it.

Friend1: One thing that a person might find odd is that in their earthly pastimes, Radharani appears in a part of the world that wouldn’t be considered fortunate.

Friend2: Why would you say that?

Friend1: It is a rural community. She is the daughter of Vrishabhanu. These are villagers, in essence. If she is the goddess of fortune, is there not a contradiction?

Friend2: An incompatibility of sorts?

Friend1: Yes; she is supposed to be the embodiment of fortune. Well then, where is it? Why is she living in some farmhouse? No electricity. No underground sewage system. No indoor plumbing. No high-speed internet.

Friend2: These are good questions. Radharani as goddess of fortune is one point of view. It is one perspective in honoring and worshiping her. It is an important view to have, since we should respect the Almighty and those dear to Him.

Friend1: What are you saying? She is not really the goddess of fortune?

Friend2: No; I am saying she is much more than that. In the temple, we dress the deities opulently because we look upon them as Vishnu and Lakshmi. The mood of worship is awe and reverence. This is the explanation of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.

Friend1: Okay.

Friend2: Radharani’s actual position is difficult to understand. The love between the two, Radha and Krishna, is so amazing that there is the Divine descent as Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in an attempt to understand.

Friend1: The golden avatara who teaches specifically about madhurya-rasa. In other words, reaching the pinnacle of bliss in bhakti life.

Friend2: And so the setting is a component to that love. Vrindavana is where Radha and Krishna enjoy the most. They are already the wealthiest people in the universe. It is not like Nanda and Vrishabhanu are poor. Just see how everyone is dressed, based on the paintings and depictions. Limitless cows. No economic problem. No lack of fresh air. Plenty of sunshine and exercise, without worrying about stock prices and your retirement account.

Friend1: Oh, absolutely. I know what you mean. Jewels everywhere. The finest dresses. No one walks around like that today. It is the best fashion sense. The men, the women, the children – everyone looks amazing.

Friend2: Which is not by accident. To this day, in Vrindavana people are more attached to Radha than Krishna. They celebrate her appearance anniversary day, Radhashtami, with so much love, affection, and joy.

Friend1: Provided the tyrannical, atheist government allows people to congregate for such celebrations. Not giving some bogus excuse as to prevent the onset of disease, which is a risk at every second of an existence.

Friend2: That kind of worship is the embodiment of good health. It is the most beneficial for everyone involved. Radharani as the goddess of fortune showers her blessings on the fortunate inhabitants, who always remember and honor her.

In Closing:

As goddess of fortune known,
But how in Vrindavana shown?

Where living in rural setting,
And not highest standard getting?

The most joy deriving in that place,
Krishna and She of moonlike face.

Radharani countless blessings giving,
Attached those on bhakti path living.

Vyasa Puja 2020

“O Lakshmana, do you rule this earth with Me. You are like My second self, so this glorious opportunity has been presented to you as well. O Saumitra, do you enjoy all the pleasures you desire and the fruits of the regal life. My life and this kingdom I covet for your sake alone.” (Lord Rama speaking to Lakshmana, Valmiki Ramayana, Ayodhya Kand, 4.43-44)

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लक्ष्मणेमां मया सार्धं प्रशाधि त्वं वसुन्धराम्।
द्वितीयं मेऽन्तरात्मानं त्वामियं श्रीरुपस्थिता।।
सौमित्रे भुङ्क्ष्व भोगांत्स्वमिष्टान्राज्यफलानि च।
जीवितं च हि राज्यं च त्वदर्थमभिकामये।।

lakṣmaṇemāṃ mayā sārdhaṃ praśādhi tvaṃ vasundharām।
dvitīyaṃ me’ntarātmānaṃ tvāmiyaṃ śrīrupasthitā।।
saumitre bhuṅkṣva bhogāṃtsvamiṣṭānrājyaphalāni ca।
jīvitaṃ ca hi rājyaṃ ca tvadarthamabhikāmaye।।

The Supreme Personality of Godhead is so kind. He does not insist on honor and obedience, though He could. He does not force anyone into loving submission, though He has the most power to potentially wield in that direction. He does not intentionally deceive others into a false sense of panic, though He has the most logic and reason available for making a convincing argument.

His pastimes on earth display His supremely magnanimous nature, such as the time Rama went to Lakshmana with the idea to share control over the important kingdom of Ayodhya. Just as Rama reveals the nature and tendency of the Supreme Lord, Lakshmana embodies the spirit of devotion in the representative, who is also known as guru.

As Lakshmana is so dear to Rama, so the guru is held in the highest esteem by the person they represent. This is because the spiritual master wants nothing for themselves. They are not in it for the money. Fame and fortune may arrive at their doorstep, with minimal effort, as if a sudden downpour nourished the crops in the field desperately awaiting food, but the guru is not affected.

That is to say the spirit of devotion does not change based on the temporary circumstances. Whether barely getting by in paying the monthly bills or having enough to distribute to many people in need, the person following in the footsteps of Lakshmana keeps only one goal.

They desire the pleasure of the one they serve. Lakshmana always stays by Rama’s side; sometimes even in defiance of the elder brother’s insistence. That is the special relationship they have, as the eldest son of Dasharatha also has two other younger brothers in Ayodhya.

As Lakshmana is fearless in his defense of the interests of the sun of the solar dynasty, so the spiritual master does not care how many followers they have, what their approval rating is in an opinion survey, or whether they have offended others in speaking the timeless truths of the Vedic tradition.

On the occasion of Vyasa Puja we honor such a representative. They helped us in immeasurable ways, such as by lifting us out of illusion and placing us into the light. We can finally see clearly, knowing things as they are. We know the past and the future, as how we have lived before and will continue to live moving forward. We see the dangers of uncontrolled kama and how it can grab ahold of our intelligence and lead us astray.

इन्द्रियाणां हि चरतां
यन् मनो ऽनुविधीयते
तद् अस्य हरति प्रज्ञां
वायुर् नावम् इवाम्भसि

indriyāṇāṁ hi caratāṁ
yan mano 'nuvidhīyate
tad asya harati prajñāṁ
vāyur nāvam ivāmbhasi

“As a boat on the water is swept away by a strong wind, even one of the senses on which the mind focuses can carry away a man's intelligence.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 2.67)

The guru, who ascends the seat of Vyasa, the literary incarnation of the Supreme, teaches in so many ways. When they assume the role of acharya, they lead by example, such as with His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. We honor him on a daily basis, and even more so on the anniversary day of his auspicious appearance in this world.

In Closing:

Honoring on appearance’s day,
The one showing me the way.

From darkness into the light,
Devotional spirit to alight.

Like Lakshmana not for honor caring,
Only on how interests of brother faring.

Making ideal acharya brave,
Prabhupada the world to save.

Krishna Janmashtami 2020

“While Vasudeva was carrying his son Krishna in the falling rain, Lord Shesha in the shape of a serpent spread His hood over the head of Vasudeva so that he would not be hampered by the rainfall. Vasudeva came onto the bank of the Yamuna and saw that the water of the Yamuna was roaring with waves and that the whole span was full of foam. Still, in that furious feature, the river gave passage to Vasudeva to cross, just as the great Indian Ocean gave a path to Lord Rama when He was bridging over the gulf.” (Krishna, The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Vol 1, Ch 3)

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“When I think of Janmashtami, the mind immediately travels to the prison cell in Mathura. The image of baby Krishna showing the vision of the four-handed Narayana to the loving parents, Vasudeva and Devaki. It was a long-awaited arrival. It was the beginning of the fulfillment of the prophecy told many years before.

“The evil King Kamsa tried to deny destiny. He killed every child born to that couple, so all that was left was the anticipation for the eighth, the supposed chosen one, as declared by the akasha-vani. I remember the timing. At midnight, while everyone was asleep. So many great things to remember, actually.

“I’m wondering, is there any symbolic significance to the events. Such as the timing, the setting, the mindset of the characters? Are there lessons we can take from the original Janmashtami and apply to our daily lives?”

Though the incident is factual, recorded for history’s sake in sacred texts like Shrimad Bhagavatam and other Puranas, there is certainly great symbolic meaning in Krishna-lila. The Divine play of the Supreme Personality of Godhead is for our pleasure. The saints pass it forward for our benefit and theirs. Janmashtami is no different.

We can focus on the stark difference in condition between the two main actors. There were the parents to be, Vasudeva and Devaki. Husband and wife, who should have been in wedded bliss from the day of their marriage, but instead suffered needlessly at the hands of Devaki’s cousin-brother, Kamsa.

Then there was the leader of Mathura. He had total control over an important area of the world. He was very powerful and respected. He should have known death was on the horizon, since that is the fate for every person. You arrive, make a name for yourself, accumulate possessions, and then leave everything behind.

Since he was of the asura mentality, Kamsa refused to acknowledge the end. He did not want to believe in a higher power, although Narada Muni already advised him of the events from a previous life, where Lord Vishnu had been the agent of death.

Based on external vision, Kamsa was free and Vasudeva and Devaki were in prison. The reality was the opposite. Kamsa was in constant torture, someone staring at a clock that counted down to doom. The birth-parents were okay because they had a feeling someone special was arriving. The demigods accompany the avatara’s arrival, and when they knew Vishnu was in Devaki’s womb, they offered prayers.

“Our dear Lord, You are appearing as the best of the Yadu dynasty, and we are offering our respectful humble obeisances unto Your lotus feet. Before this appearance, You also appeared as the fish incarnation, the horse incarnation, the tortoise incarnation, the swan incarnation, as King Ramachandra, as Parashurama, and as many other incarnations.” (Demigods praying to Krishna in the womb of Devaki, Krishna, The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Vol 1, Ch 2)

Though Kamsa was free, he was fast asleep when Krishna arrived. Though the parents were in prison, they were under no danger. Vasudeva was able to escape the prison, in fact. Though it was dark at that time of night, the effulgence of the transcendental body of His son provided the necessary vision.

Though it was pouring rain, there was protection from Ananta Shesha Naga, who used his hoods to create an umbrella. Though there was the raging Yamuna River to cross, Vasudeva received safe passage, to reach Gokula, as per the instructions of Krishna.

Kamsa had everything, but he really had nothing. This was because of his rivalry with God. The parents had nothing, but they actually had everything. This is a truth we remember on a daily basis, but especially on occasions like Janmashtami, where the chanting of the holy names has added significance: Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.

In Closing:

Parents prison walls to see,
And Kamsa supposedly free.

Since on throne sitting,
But a contradiction befitting.

Vasudeva light in dark to unfold,
Because Krishna in arms to hold.

Even safely across river raging,
But asura losing battle waging.

Narasimha Chaturdashi 2020

“Prahlada Maharaja continued: I received this knowledge from the great saint Narada Muni, who is always engaged in devotional service. This knowledge, which is called bhagavata-dharma, is fully scientific. It is based on logic and philosophy and is free from all material contamination.” (Shrimad Bhagavatam, 7.6.28)

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श्रुतम् एतन् मया पूर्वं
ज्ञानं विज्ञान-संयुतम्
धर्मं भागवतं शुद्धं
नारदाद् देव-दर्शनात्

śrutam etan mayā pūrvaṁ
jñānaṁ vijñāna-saṁyutam
dharmaṁ bhāgavataṁ śuddhaṁ
nāradād deva-darśanāt

In a verse in the Shrimad Bhagavatam, Prahlada Maharaja describes Narada Muni as a person who always sees the Divine [deva]. This confirms the truth that a spiritual master, guru, is a tattva-darshi, or one who has seen the truth.

तद् विद्धि प्रणिपातेन
परिप्रश्नेन सेवया
उपदेक्ष्यन्ति ते ज्ञानं
ज्ञानिनस् तत्त्व-दर्शिनः

tad viddhi praṇipātena
paripraśnena sevayā
upadekṣyanti te jñānaṁ
jñāninas tattva-darśinaḥ

“Just try to learn the truth by approaching a spiritual master. Inquire from him submissively and render service unto him. The self-realized soul can impart knowledge unto you because he has seen the truth.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 4.34)

Narada Muni gave both jnana and vijnana to Prahlada. Simply from hearing there was theoretical understanding and also the practical application of the principles. No field work required, as the bhagavata path is unique and superior in this way. On the occasion of Narasimha Chaturdashi, we celebrate the transfer of power, how Narada Muni gave Prahlada the same ability to always see the Divine.

Anyone can claim that they have jnana and vijnana. The actor wears a lab coat and pretends to be a scientist on the popular television drama series. Wearing the shirt and tie and sitting behind a desk in an important office, another person portrays the leader of a nation.

Prahlada’s jnana was evident in his instructions to the sons of Daityas. These were children of the demon-class, to which Prahlada also belonged. They congregated in school, to be taught on the ways of material life, for ascending to the highest levels of sense enjoyment.

Since Prahlada had contact with Narada Muni much earlier, during the time in the womb, in fact, the priorities were different. The child of only five years was focused on serving the Supreme Lord, Bhagavan. He wanted to impress the idea on to the other students, who were his peers.

Proof of jnana is in the presentation of the principles. If I can memorize certain formulas in mathematics and give the proper answers on a formal examination, it proves that I have learned the material. This is at least to the satisfaction of the instructors.

Prahlada proved vijnana through his unwavering determination in yoga. This was the field work; something like the scientist going to the laboratory to conduct experiments, to prove hypotheses. Prahlada accepted the jnana from Narada, but also acted on it. This is one of the reasons shravanam, hearing, is the most recommended way towards transcendence. It does not require much to practice, and the benefits are enormous.

Narada can pass on jnana and vijnana because he has seen the truth and continues to see it. He is a traveler of the three-worlds, and he can visit Vaikuntha anytime he likes. There he sees God in the four-handed form of Narayana, who is lying in rest. Comfortably seated on the serpent bed of Ananta-Shesha Naga, the Supreme Lord has His feet massaged by His wife, Lakshmi Devi, who is the goddess of fortune.

Narada carries that image wherever he goes, retaining the association through chanting the holy name of Narayana. Narada’s disciples are able to do the same, and thus they feel liberated even prior to quitting the body.

Proof of Prahlada’s amazing vision would arrive through the descent of the avatara known as Narasimha. Prahlada always saw Narayana, but the atheistic father refused to believe. He could not acknowledge Narayana as God. Otherwise, the life in pursuit of world dominance would be invalidated. All of Hiranyakashipu’s work would be in vain.

Narayana showed a direct vision to the doubting soul, who could have benefitted from accepting the valuable words of advice from the son. This vision wasn’t the same four-handed one seen in Vaikuntha. It was ferocious and awe-inspiring. It was a special version of kala, which is death. Kala is the way that every person eventually meets God, face-to-face.

As angry as Narasimha was, because of the torture Hiranyakashipu had previously inflicted on the innocent Prahlada, it was an auspicious occasion, one that continues to be celebrated today. Narayana is the protector of the devotees, and He is never lost to them.

In Closing:

For world domination at any cost,
But for proper direction lost.

Since those words hearing,
And not to transcendence steering.

From saintly son heard,
But only further anger stirred.

Until death as Narasimha to descend,
Celebration to this day to extend.

Rama Navami 2020

“Just as a tree starts to blossom during the proper season, so the doer of sinful deeds inevitably reaps the horrible fruit of their actions at the appropriate time.” (Lord Rama speaking to Khara, Valmiki Ramayana, Aranya Kand, 29.8)

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अवश्यं लभते जन्तुः फलं पापस्य कर्मणः।
घोरं पर्यागते काले द्रुमाः पुष्पमिवार्तवम्।।

avaśyaṃ labhate jantuḥ phalaṃ pāpasya karmaṇaḥ।
ghoraṃ paryāgate kāle drumāḥ puṣpamivārtavam।।

It is only understandable to turn to prayer in times of great difficulty. Where the reality of the fragile nature of the body-life combination hits home. Where the event known to be inevitable gives a reminder of its closely approaching arrival.

Nature’s law must still operate. It is only fair, after all. Prayers will not do much, if not directed towards a higher purpose. These are the teachings of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, who follows in a line of self-realized leaders originating with the Supreme Personality of Godhead Himself.

On the occasion of Rama Navami, we celebrate the rare, but special instances of God the person delivering the appropriate consequences to action. As His words are eternally beautiful, so are the lessons He imparts through His lila.

The setting for one of those lessons was the Dandaka forest. As a brief background, a group of man-eating ogres had been invading the area on a regular basis. They were looking for humans to eat. They waited until nighttime, so as to not be seen. They chose an opportune moment for them, when their future prey would be otherwise distracted.

Notably, those victims were the most innocent in society. Vedic teachings give the formula for both material and spiritual happiness. If a society desires peace, prosperity and an absence of distress, there are certain entities which must be protected.

The brahmanas are foremost among them. This is the priestly class, determined specifically by guna and karma. The material qualities must be there, along with corresponding work. The brahmanas are very dear to the Supreme Lord, as they generally do not look for an income, material comforts, or personal advancement. In response to that sacrifice, they are protected by those in charge of preventing injury [kshatriya].

In the Dandaka forest the brahmanas did not expect any trouble. The area was away from civilized society. I am not bothering anyone by taking up residence in a remote place. There I am better able to fix my consciousness on the lotus feet of the Divine.

Those plans were ruined by the Rakshasas coming from Lanka. They would attack during the time of yajna. This was the moment of fruition for the brahmanas in their religious efforts. The Rakshasas knew that as more yajnas were successfully conducted, the stronger the forces of good would be, which were concentrated in the heavenly region.

The Rakshasas would attack in a most cowardly way. Taking false forms and then eating their victims, they assumed everything went unnoticed. After all, there were no immediate consequences. It would be as if the criminals were let out of jail and the government did nothing to stop it.

As mentioned previously, the laws of nature are not deficient. They respond at the appropriate time and with the proper punishment. The avatara of Rama spoke this lesson to one of the greatest sinners, Khara. He was soon to meet the fate of the many brahmanas he had previously killed.

This moment is glorious because it is another instance of the victory of dharma over adharma. It proves that the ever-watchful eye does not blink. Antaryami witnesses everything. This is one of Rama’s features. While He typically remains neutral and allows His material nature to handle punishment and reward, in special cases He personally intervenes.

On the negative side the intervention is with the Rakshasas of Lanka, and on the positive it is with the devotees who are always thinking of Him. Rama boosts their devotional efforts to a level empowering a guaranteed return trip to the spiritual world after the completion of this life, where the harsh material nature no longer applies.

In Closing:

On this Rama Navami day,
To Sita’s husband to pray.

That my punishments just,
For proper arrival trust.

Like with demon Khara found,
Once on Dandaka ground.

That watching lotus-eye never closing,
Squashing those dharma opposing.

Holi 2020

“Since it was almost night, and all the inhabitants of Vrindavana, including the cows and calves, were very tired, they decided to take their rest on the river bank. In the middle of the night, while they were taking rest, there was suddenly a great forest fire, and it quickly appeared that the fire would soon devour all the inhabitants of Vrindavana. As soon as they felt the warmth of the fire, they immediately took shelter of Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, although He was playing just like their child.” (Krishna, The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Vol 1, Ch 17)

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Despite what the perception may be of the influence of the material elements, the spirit soul is always above. It belongs to a different energy. It is the superior one emanating from the source of all energies, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Bhagavan.

अहं सर्वस्य प्रभवो
मत्तः सर्वं प्रवर्तते
इति मत्वा भजन्ते मां
बुधा भाव-समन्विताः

ahaṁ sarvasya prabhavo
mattaḥ sarvaṁ pravartate
iti matvā bhajante māṁ
budhā bhāva-samanvitāḥ

“I am the source of all spiritual and material worlds. Everything emanates from Me. The wise who know this perfectly engage in My devotional service and worship Me with all their hearts.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 10.8)

Because of illusion, I think otherwise. When the body gets destroyed, I lament. The tragic accident affecting those people I know. The sudden loss of a loved one or family member. The inevitable nature of death, how a countdown clock is lurking in the background. Who wouldn’t be saddened at realizing such a state of affairs?

The self-realized soul is not bewildered. They are dhira because they understand the distinction between body and spirit. The body is always changing. At every moment, but especially noted at the two significant events of birth and death. These are actually acceptance and dismissal.

देहिनो ऽस्मिन् यथा देहे
कौमारं यौवनं जरा
तथा देहान्तर-प्राप्तिर्
धीरस् तत्र न मुह्यति

dehino ‘smin yathā dehe
kaumāraṁ yauvanaṁ jarā
tathā dehāntara-prāptir
dhīras tatra na muhyati

“As the embodied soul continually passes, in this body, from boyhood to youth to old age, the soul similarly passes into another body at death. The self-realized soul is not bewildered by such a change.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 2.13)

To help us understand the difference, the Supreme Lord sometimes puts on amazing displays. These events seem to defy the laws of nature, but if we actually understand the source of the energies, we wouldn’t be so amazed.

One example is the forest fire in the town of Vrindavana. This is a documented moment from Krishna’s lila. These are the pastimes of God in the transcendental visual of Shri Krishna, the all-attractive youth who enchants everyone He meets in that place full of devotees.

The fire appears suddenly. Moments prior, everyone is taking rest, after surviving a harrowing incident involving a poisonous serpent in the Yamuna River. They are not prepared and they have no time to devise an escape plan. Their only recourse is to take shelter of Krishna, who is with them.

The remedy is straightforward. Krishna devours the forest fire. Not a magic act that is based on illusion. Not a trick of the eyes based on hallucination. The actual material element of fire enters Krishna’s mouth, and there are no negative consequences.

Krishna can do this because God retains full potency in every situation. In whatever visual He displays, He has full control over His energies. He can lift a mountain with His pinky finger. He can rescue a planet submerged in an ocean and raise it to safety. He can battle a fierce whirlwind. He can change the nature of any material element.

On the occasion of Holi, we celebrate the extension of this amazing ability to the dedicated servants. The boy named Prahlada once survived a bout with intense heat. He was brought into a raging fire by an elder, who is normally supposed to be a guardian. Sadly, this time the elder was acting at the direction of the king, Hiranyakashipu.

Prahlada happened to be Hiranyakashipu’s son. It was the aunt taking Prahlada into the fire, but through meditation on Krishna there was no harm. Hiranyakashipu’s sister is the one who perished, and she left behind colored ashes. These are the colors happily thrown about on the annual occasion celebrating the incident.

This is not to say that from devotional service a person will automatically be able to transcend any element of nature, but the incident supports the truth that a person’s devotional life will always be protected. Krishna makes sure of it, so that many more Holi celebrations can take place in the future, either in this lifetime or the next.

In Closing:

Many more celebrations to take place,
Time never devotional efforts to erase.

Proven by forest fire to devour,
Krishna always with this power.

By devotees also earned,
Where Prahlada not burned.

But Holika the one to perish,
The timeless incident to cherish.

Gaura Purnima 2020

“According to their karma, all living entities are wandering throughout the entire universe. Some of them are being elevated to the upper planetary systems, and some are going down into the lower planetary systems. Out of many millions of wandering living entities, one who is very fortunate gets an opportunity to associate with a bona fide spiritual master by the grace of Krishna. By the mercy of both Krishna and the spiritual master, such a person receives the seed of the creeper of devotional service.” (Chaitanya Charitamrita, Madhya 19.151)

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ब्रह्माण्ड भ्रमिते कोन भाग्यवान् जीव
गुरु-कृष्ण-प्रसादे पाय भक्ति-लता-बीज

brahmāṇḍa bhramite kona bhāgyavān jīva
guru-kṛṣṇa-prasāde pāya bhakti-latā-bīja

If you have heard the maha-mantra you are very fortunate. You fall into the category of “bhagyavan jiva”, as expressed in a wonderful Bengali verse by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, the golden avatara appearing specifically to rescue the souls lost in this dark age of quarrel and hypocrisy, Kali-yuga. The occasion of Gaura Purnima falls on the day of the year of His appearance, based on the lunar calendar .

The seed of the creeper of devotion, bhakti, arrives through the via medium of the spiritual master. Such contact is not a chance occurrence. A person must be very fortunate; they have to be favored by the Almighty, who is known as Bhagavan since He possesses every fortune simultaneously and to the fullest extent.  He is also known as Krishna since He is all-attractive.

In the form of the human body I can find myself in a variety of situations. We notice the vast difference between taking birth in a poor country versus living in a place full of modern amenities, where there is no shortage of food or clothing.

I could be surrounded by sense gratifiers; people who are only interested in the animal activities of eating, sleeping, mating and defending. Increasing the degree of indulgence in each area, but never finding true happiness. Considering this life to be everything; not preparing for the next. Having no idea of the distinction between body and spirit; overjoyed at acceptance and deeply saddened at separation.

On the other side, I could know the differences. Confirming my suspicions aroused through many years of experience, I learn that simply engaging the senses will never make a person happy. Not that dry renunciation will help much, either.

I must have a higher goal. I must work towards the satisfaction of the master of all senses, Hrishikesha. He is all-attractive, so the effort to please Him is not devoid of fun and excitement. The bliss only increases, with the reservoir impossible to fill, as confirmed by Maharishi Valmiki in his conversation with Shri Rama wonderfully presented in the work of Goswami Tulsidas known as the Ramacharitamanasa.

If I know the futility of material life and how serving God is everything, I have been blessed by higher powers. The spiritual master has reached my world to influence me. Another person may not be so lucky. They may not be favored, in spite of being blessed with the same auspicious human form.

Because of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, so many more people have become fortunate. Rather than wait for the possible meeting, the Supreme Lord increases the chances of it happening. He does not remain satisfied with creating a system of parampara and supporting it with sacred texts like Bhagavad-gita and Shrimad Bhagavatam.

He arrives in this manifest world as Chaitanya Mahaprabhu to display how to live the principles of those important works composed in the Sanskrit language. He distributes the mercy of the Divine to every person, irrespective of their pedigree determined by birth. He does not discriminate between man or woman, as every person is an individual soul eternally tied to the Supreme Lord.

Chaitanya Mahaprabhu creates auspicious circumstances through the sankirtana movement, which is the chanting of the holy names: Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare. Chaitanya earns the honor of being the most munificent avatara of the Almighty, and on Gaura Purnima we take special time to remember and serve Him.

In Closing:

So fortunate is He,
Chaitanya’s form to see.

Because then easily to understand,
That identity not from leg or hand.

That spiritual life with purpose meant,
From village to village Gaura went.

So that every person getting the chance,
Their fortunes greatly to enhance.

Govardhana Puja 2019

“When everything was complete, Krishna assumed a great transcendental form and declared to the inhabitants of Vrindavana that He was Himself Govardhana Hill in order to convince the devotees that Govardhana Hill and Krishna Himself are identical. Then Krishna began to eat all the food offered there.” (Krishna, The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Vol 1, Ch 24)

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Bhakti-yoga is not a dry or tasteless activity, reserved only for the time after the transition to statelessness. The individual can never be without individuality. They always have the service tendency, though sometimes it can be greatly suppressed or misdirected.

As the occasion of Govardhana Puja relates to Bhagavan, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, it is an ideal case study on the emotions that can be involved in the direct interaction with the person who is beyond the material world and the different concepts in duality, such as birth and death, manifest and unmanifest, and close by and far away.

1. Gratefulness

The setting is the farm community of Gokula Vrindavana. The people are simple, but also intelligent. They are not chasing after money, wealth or fame. They are satisfied with what the cows and the land produce. The animals under their care are happy and free to roam about. They are not afraid of untimely death for the purpose of satisfying the human taste buds.

The tradition in that area is to worship the god of heaven, Indra. There is a puja in his honor, and it is more or less a formality. The people are grateful for the rain arriving from up above. This is an aspect of nature that can never be controlled or replaced. No matter how much technology advances, the essential aspects of life like sunlight, rain, air, and land remain.

Nanda Maharaja leads the way. He directs the entire community. No one has an issue with the Indra-puja, except for Nanda’s son Krishna. As children are known to be, Krishna is curious as to what is going on. Why the preparations? Who is this Indra that needs to be worshiped? What happens if you don’t pay homage?

2. Envy

As He is the Supreme Lord, Krishna has the most intelligence. At a young age He gives wonderful arguments to the father. The objective is to direct the puja paraphernalia to the nearby Govardhana Hill instead. Krishna gives the justification that the cows are the most dear to the community. Since Govardhana is dear to the cows, it should be worshiped instead of Indra.

Nanda proposes conducting both worship ceremonies simultaneously, but Krishna convinces him to focus only on Govardhana Hill. What will happen if you skip Indra’s puja for one year? There should be some satisfaction from the many past performances.

Unfortunately, the ways of envy are not logical. Indra immediately forgets the past and focuses only on the present, which he considers to be the greatest insult. Envious of Krishna’s influence on the people, Indra directs the cloud of destruction, the one reserved for the end of the world, to target the Govardhana area. This would surely wipe everyone out, but revenge was primary on his mind.

3. Fear

Even in the presence of the Supreme Lord there can be fear. Not necessarily that He will attack or punish without justification; fear that something bad will occur. That is possible when the relationship is so close that a person forgets they are in the presence of the Almighty.

This fear is actually auspicious. Though the residents were afraid for their lives, they had the shelter of Shri Krishna. After Indra’s attack, Nanda’s son wisely used the just worshiped hill as an umbrella. A small child is capable of lifting a gigantic hill and holding it up in the air only if the visual of the body has no bearing on potency.

This incident proves that Krishna is not limited by the supposed form He manifests. He can eat with His eyes, run with His mind, and hear with His hands. He can rest the heaviest object on the weakest finger on the typically non-dominant hand and not feel any discomfort.

4. Forgiveness

Under common law, a person who intentionally tries to wipe innocent people out with a targeted attack of massive amounts of water would face stiff punishment. The justice system would send them away for a long time.

Shri Krishna is so kind that He forgives instantly. He would have to; otherwise no one could return to His spiritual kingdom. Every person has some flaws, defects, or past behavior over which they are not proud. Indra’s transgression happened to occur on the largest scale, but his subsequent words of contrition were enough to win the favor of the Supreme Lord.

In Closing:

Despite from envy spinning,

Indra later His favor winning.

Emotion in bhakti life to see,

Not like motionless stone to be.

Grateful for the cows and land,

Fear from lack of control to command.

Amazing but events not fictitious,

When related to Krishna auspicious.

Diwali 2019

“O Sita, see the golden lord of mountains [Mainaka], which is golden-peaked and which rose up, piercing the ocean, to provide rest to Hanuman.” (Lord Rama speaking to Sita Devi, Valmiki Ramayana, Yuddha Kand, 123.18)

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हिरण्यनाभन् शैलेन्द्रन् काञ्चनं पश्य मैथिलि ||
विश्रमार्थन् हनुमतो भित्त्वा सागरमुत्थितम् |

hiraṇyanābhan śailendran kāñcanaṃ paśya maithili ||
viśramārthan hanumato bhittvā sāgaramutthitam |

Diwali is commonly known today as the festival of lights, associated primarily with the Hindu faith. At its foundation, the annual tradition follows in the footsteps of residents of a specific city many thousands of years ago.

If there is any faith involved, it was in the eager anticipation of the return of the prince of Ayodhya. He is the Supreme Lord Himself, but to the common people He was the beloved son of King Dasharatha, their leader for so many years.

The lights were aligned as a great welcome, a homecoming of the triumphant son, who defeated the forces of evil concentrated in Lanka at the time. Since Lanka was far away, an island, Rama and company used a special aerial car to return.

Known as the Pushpaka, its path crossed over many places relevant to Rama’s journey to victory. His wife Sita was separated from Him during most of that time, so Rama took the opportunity of the plane ride to point out various places of significance.

1. Mount Mainaka

It almost seems strange that Dasharatha’s eldest son would mention this. The incident was brief, but to the participants the interaction meant everything. The mountain called Mainaka, which has a beautiful golden color, rose through the ocean to offer assistance to Shri Hanuman.

This was worth mentioning to Sita because it shows that Hanuman had well-wishers. The brave Vanara warrior was the one who first searched for Sita in Lanka, while Rama and company were back on the other side of the ocean. Hanuman’s journey was a difficult one, but Mainaka was kind enough to offer a resting place, though Hanuman did not require it.

2. People killed by Hanuman

From reading the sacred Ramayana poem of Maharishi Valmiki, we quickly realize that Hanuman holds a special place in the estimation of the Supreme Lord. Rama made sure to point out other areas of significance related to Hanuman.

He showed Sita where various enemies were killed by that brave Vanara warrior. It was a massive fight to defeat Ravana and his Rakshasa forces. These evildoers were not ready to give up the daughter of King Janaka without a fight.

Rama is God, so He does not require assistance in accomplishing tasks. Yet He understands the service mentality ingrained in the spirit soul. When the fortunate ones are in His company, Rama provides ample opportunity for service to take place, in a mood suited to the individual’s qualities.

Hanuman’s qualities are so deep and far-reaching that he exercises service in a variety of ways. He can use his brain to cleverly maneuver difficult circumstances. He can expand his stature and leap a great distance. He can also heroically fight against combatants holding the most powerful weapons and using black magic to assist in their illusion.

3. Building the bridge

Hanuman crossed the ocean by leaping over it, but this could not be done by everyone else. Rama was with His younger brother Lakshmana, and the two intentionally moved by foot to stay true to a vow of ascetic life.

Rama could not return home to use His royal army, either. But since Bhagavan is automatically related to everyone, He was able to find capable warriors in the forest of Kishkindha. The Vanara-king Sugriva joined the cause, bringing his many enthusiastic warriors with him.

Those servants built a bridge out of floating rocks. This allowed for Rama and everyone else to cross to reach Lanka, where Ravana had hidden Sita. Rama showed this bridge to Sita and explained how everything was done for her.

4. Receiving Mahadeva’s prasada

A popular painting depicts Rama worshiping a deity of Mahadeva, Lord Shiva. This is done prior to the final battle against the Rakshasas of Lanka. Though God does not require help in gaining victory, He holds tremendous affection for those aligned with Him. Rama sets the proper example in the respect that should be extended to Lord Shiva. On the aerial car, Rama showed the specific area where the worship took place, where Mahadeva gave his prasada, or mercy.

5. Mount Rishyamukha

Around this area is where the aerial car made a brief landing. Listening attentively to her husband, Sita could not help but think of the wives of the Vanaras. They were separated from their husbands, just as she was. Sita wanted them to board the plane and return home for the triumphant celebration. Like her husband, the goddess of fortune is not a miser when it comes to accepting honor and glory.

Understanding the amazing characteristics of that Divine couple, it is not a surprise that Ayodhya celebrated the way they did. It is also not surprising that the tradition carries on to the modern day, where Sita and Rama continue to extend their mercy to the devotees.

In Closing:

Mercy continuing to extend,

From original tradition to descend.

Where Ayodhya’s people to earn,

That long awaited return.

While on aerial car seated,

Events shown like Rakshasas defeated.

And Hanuman leaping over ocean where,

The Divine couple of sacrifices aware.

Dussehra 2019

“The mighty Rama, who possessed extraordinary strength, consecrating in accordance with the mantras prescribed in the Vedas, taking that great arrow – which was capable of removing the fears of the entire world and the Ikshvaku dynasty, capable of taking away the glory of His enemies, and conducive to His own happiness – fixed it on His bow.” (Valmiki Ramayana, Yuddha Kand, 108.13-14)

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It is not just a religious holiday to be observed as part of tradition or what others in the community pressure you into. It is not merely for paying respect, as one look at this vast creation is enough to be spellbound at the artistic ability of the creator.

Like other notable occasions in the annual Vaishnava calendar, Dussehra is meant for giving pleasure. The soul is naturally blissful. The property is known as ananda, and it descends from the Supreme Lord, who is always full of bliss and knowledge.

Events relating to the triumph of Vishnu over the asura elements of society give pleasure to the fallen souls who are struggling through the myriad births in various species. The elevated, important personalities also take great joy in both witnessing the original event and commemorating on the subsequent anniversary days.

1. Agastya

The jar-born one is an important rishi of the Vedic tradition. Shri Rama, who is the incarnation of Vishnu central to the Dussehra celebration, offers Agastya the highest praise. Rama tells His younger brother Lakshmana that Agastya’s piety is at such a high level that the wrongdoers cannot even approach the rishi’s ashrama.

Agastya takes pleasure in the event of Rama slaying the Rakshasa leader named Ravana. Though God does not require help in accomplishing a task, He allows others to participate, giving opportunities for the active tendency in service to manifest. Prior to finally defeating Ravana in a long, drawn-out battle, Rama receives assistance from Agastya on how to proceed.

2. The sun-god

The help is in the form of a mantra. Agastya advises Rama to worship the sun-god. This is appropriate for many reasons. The sun dissipates darkness. The sun is light, or the mode of goodness, and darkness is the mode of ignorance. Rama is the original effulgence of this universe, as hinted at by Shri Krishna in the Bhagavad-gita.

न तद् भासयते सूर्यो
न शशाङ्को न पावकः
यद् गत्वा न निवर्तन्ते
तद् धाम परमं मम

na tad bhāsayate sūryo
na śaśāṅko na pāvakaḥ
yad gatvā na nivartante
tad dhāma paramaṁ mama

“That abode of Mine is not illumined by the sun or moon, nor by electricity. One who reaches it never returns to this material world.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 15.6)

Rama also appears in a dynasty of kings that originates with the sun-god, Vivasvan. Therefore, it is something like the family tradition to be blessed by the maker of the day. The sun-god is a distinct personality, and he takes great pleasure in playing a role in the defeat of the dread of the saintly class, Ravana.

3. Lord Brahma

He is the creator. Also known as Svayambhu, he is the first living entity. Not knowing what to do at first, he meditates. He hears the sound of tapa, which means “austerity.” Through that practice he receives further guidance from the Supreme Lord on how to proceed in life.

स चिन्तयन् द्व्य्-अक्षरम् एकदाम्भस्य्
उपाशृणोद् द्विर्-गदितं वचो विभुः
स्पर्शेषु यत् षोडशम् एकविंशं
निष्किञ्चनानां नृप यद् धनं विदुः

sa cintayan dvy-akṣaram ekadāmbhasy
upāśṛṇod dvir-gaditaṁ vaco vibhuḥ
sparśeṣu yat ṣoḍaśam ekaviṁśaṁ
niṣkiñcanānāṁ nṛpa yad dhanaṁ viduḥ

“While thus engaged in thinking, in the water, Brahmaji heard twice from nearby two syllables joined together. One of the syllables was taken from the sixteenth and the other from the twenty-first of the sparsha alphabets, and both joined to become the wealth of the renounced order of life.” (Shrimad Bhagavatam, 2.9.6)

It is Brahma’s arrow which gets released to deal the final blow to Ravana. Thus Brahma is an integral part of the origin of the Dussehra event. Though he helps both saints and sinners alike, Brahma’s actual interest is on the side of good. Whatever boons Ravana may have received previously were nullified through another blessing from Brahma, but this time offered to Rama.

4. Durga Devi

Dussehra occurs at the end of a series of days dedicated to worshiping the wife of Lord Shiva. One of her names is Durga, and she is something like the manager of the fort that is the material world. That fort is difficult to cross over; hence her name.

Rama killing Ravana gives her great pleasure, as she is always on the side of good, like her husband. She is associated with the event, as well, for the Supreme Lord includes others in festive occasions. Just as the Vanaras from Kishkindha helped in defeating the Rakshasa army in Lanka, so Durga Devi was there to offer assistance.

5. Mahadeva

This is interesting for the reason that it is well-known that Ravana was a devotee of Shiva. In truth, the relationship started out differently. As he was towards practically any powerful person, Ravana tried to compete with Lord Shiva. After being defeated and releasing a loud scream of pain, he finally surrendered.

Mahadeva is a great devotee of Rama, though. The relationship with Ravana was something like business associates, though there was no real interest for Shiva to meet. The husband of Durga Devi rejoices in Rama’s victory. He is also associated in a way, since Rama prays to Mahadeva for a successful outcome just prior to the battle. During the return trip home to Ayodhya, Rama points out the location of the puja to His wife Sita Devi. He specifically says Shiva gave his prasada, or mercy.

The victory is more than just the triumph of good over evil. The suras and the asuras have been at odds since the beginning of time. Like the changing of seasons, sometimes the influence of good rises, and sometimes the most sinful ascend to the top.

The uniqueness of Ravana’s fall is that it took place directly at the hands of the Supreme Lord. Thus there is added significance, which can be studied, remembered, and discussed for years and years, with further enlightenment taking place throughout the process.

In Closing:

On further enlightened ground,

When topics of Dussehra to sound.

Annual occasion worth celebrating,

Where God His power demonstrating.

Brahma and others included too,

When Rama that arrow drew.

For the benefit of mankind released,

After too much asuras increased.