Showing posts with label EN. Show all posts
Showing posts with label EN. Show all posts

Tuesday, October 5, 2021

Herbal Secrets of Dard Tribe Dying Traditions Kashmir

Shina is an endangered language. It is native of Dard community which reside in the Gilgit Baltistan sector of Kashmir. Now divided by LOC with the pristine yet unexplored untouched Gurez Tulail valley which lies in India, the entire region was once part of Dardistan that connected Kashmir valley to Kashgar in Tibet. This community forms an important link between the lost traditions of Sharda , the Shakti traditions of Tantra. We find many references of ancient civilisation marks in the modern day surviving Dard community through their herbal or ethno-medicinal traditions. This dying knowledge is an important link between the algorithmic cryptic knowledge about Vedic herbs. Vedic herbs have prominently be identified by generic species, however each herb is in itself a collection of various therapeutic possibilities depending on its geographical distribution which is understood by the various synonyms they are associated with representing their morphological variations and specific chemotypes. The ethno-medicinal knowledge of these lesser traditions present us an opportunity to identify and catalogue Ayurveda herbs through novel paradigms which may promote chemotype based medicinal economics. This viewpoint also help us protect wild pastures & forest to conserve biodiversity of species along with the dynamics of fauna they sustain on & not indulge in mindless cultivation of economically important species. This wil promote sustainable picking, preserve these traditional knowledge & may create a green economy with healthy eco-tourism

TIMELINE

00:00 Start of The Video, Introducing the topic of Traditional ethno-medicine and its assessment in modern day world

00:46 Start of the interview. Traditional healer from Dard community who speaks ancient and endangered Shina language shares his knowledge about medicinal herbs , Patrees/ Patis,  Nagpape, Kharkosal, Jaume, Shitkar/Sheetkar, Tripatri & some unknown herbs used to regrow hair and even treat cancers.

05:39 Informs about the religious and spiritual importance of the vedic herb Mushkbala as known locally and how its Hindu significance is imbibed in the Shina culture

06:01 Musk deer, how the deer found in Tulai Gurez valley especially in Wazirthal Badugam is special due to the divine Kishen ganga stream water it drinks. How it must be prevented from poaching and its how  a sustainable economy around musk is created, he informs about traditional use of Musk

06:53 Informs about the mineral and gemstones found in valley , Granite, Gold, Diamonds, Iron. He also informs about the traditional sindoor or cinnabar from which sindoor or vermillion was made as used in Hindusim

07:35 Informs about the rich produce and cash crops of this valley. Edible mushroom that sell at around 80,000rs per kg & how government can create a viable economy

08:11 My insights about Taxonomical species and Vedic herbs. how we must not identify Ayurveda herbs as singular species. What is the algorithm behind codified herbs in ayurveda and how the depict environmental & chemotypic biodiversity

09:13 The healer informs about ancient route of Dard from Gilgit Baltistan now in POK towards Kashmir valley. He talks about the divinity of Lord Shiva, how these mountains are abode of Shiva energy and why one must come here to experience the divinity

09:45 He talks about sustainable tourism in the valley. How there is a myth that it is not safe to visit this valley, why people should come & how hospitable they would feel on visit

11:15 My final thoughts about herbal cultivation vs biodiversity. How we can preserve these traditions and link their knowledge in decoding Vedic algorithms through which a sustainable green economy & ecotourism can be created



Tuesday, September 28, 2021

How Yogis Heat Their Body In Extreme Cold, World In Thermal Camera

 Highland Himalayan practises of breath bija mantra have been integral to Tantra & Veda. Passed on mostly through oral traditions they have been locked amidst cryptic codes of Bija ,  japa mantra & vedic sutras. The ability of human body to adapt to varying harsh geographical conditions have always been a point of enquiry. In my vast Himalayan travels around 18 years I have come across many yogis who meditate in icy cold weathers with minimal clothing, minimal food and no communication with outside world for 6-8 months in state of hibernation with suspended breaths, low heart rate and effective equilibrium with outside Prana. Though there are many methods and ways , the base algorithms work on Somatic pathway where there is voluntary & involuntary muscle control through breath & bandha & Neuro cognitive where there is mental imagery , for example of letter sound (sanskrit syllables , ) visualisation or Prakrit dhvani & sound visualisation or rhythmic patterns and vibrations created from mantra , nāda as Vaikhari Dhvani.A sequel to the video "How Yogis keep their body cool in Extreme Heat", in this video I try to build upon the concepts and present the demonstration in an breakdown manner. I try to create an equilibrium within my body heat & outside temperature preventing  Heat loss in ice-cold weather through 4 mediums of radiation, Conduction, Convection & Evaporation by wearing minimum clothes, having an ice clad wet cloth on my shoulder which I look to dry by selective focus of heat energy by breath. I have captured all this on a Thermal camera which accurately measures thermal radiation loss by capturing infrared wavelengths. I also discuss how this lost traditions of Yogini Vidya form the basis of Vajrayana or Tibetan Buddhism by comparing it with their elite breathing practise of "Tum Mau" where the monks dry wet blankets placed on their shoulders with body heat. Eventually i finish the video with inferences we can take from such experiments towards application in health, environment  & adaptability  in present and future which may help us unearth the hidden Artificial or Cosmic / Brahma Intelligence in Vedas & Tantra

TIMELINE

00:00 Start of the video with introduction to the topic

00:28 Thermoregulation & 4 types of Heat Loss by Radiation, Conduction, Convection, Evaporation

02:33 Sound Energy & Breath Basics. Sanskrit Syllables, Maheshwar Sutra, Sound and Creation of Cosmos.

04:39 Demonstration Parameters Explained, 12,500 FT, 4-9C temperature, Windy, 

05:49 Plavini Prānāyama Explained, Demonstration of Plavini Pranayama प्लविनि प्राणायम

07:34 Jālandhara Bandha Explained, Ha or post inhale & Tha or post exhale Bandha explained जालंधर बंध

08:25 Bija Mantra Visualisation Explained, Bhadrakali Bija mantra Krim क्रीं, Bhaim भैं explained. How to visualise bija Mantra and Breath भद्रकालि साधना , बिज मंत्र

10:43 Thermal Camera Capture Explained, How thermal camera captures body heat. Lepton 2.5 vs Lepton 3.5 module,

12:19 Breath & Heart Rate Explained, How breath and bandha affect heart rate and body heat

12:42 Demonstration Start With Explanation, Entire explanation of 2hr process where I try to keep my body warm in ice-cold weather

14:29 Tum Mau Vajrāyana Breathing Explained, Tibetan Buddhism or Vajrayana breathing technique of Tum Mau where monks dry wet blankets on their shoulder. Steam seems to appear from their body. How its foundations lie at base of Yogini tantra. Component of Tantra, Somatic & Neuro-cognitive

15:26 Lessons & Inferences From The Demo, How can we infer such practises from a logical viewpoint. How can we apply such practises in health, environment and future technology. Hidden Artificial Intelligence in Vedas and Tantra

17:48 End of The Video


Wednesday, September 22, 2021

Decoding Intelligence behind Magical Plants , Mantra Rituals & Indian Alchemy

India with its cultural and academic history has progressed over time with many rituals, folk medicine which have attained esoteric, occult or even some may say superstitious envelopes due to the geo-politcal shifts it has experienced. In such lieu i try to present an interview with a healer from Narang Kashmir who specialises in snake bite poison and alchemy. I document his knowledge especially about Mantra science to cure snake bites and also to gather rare herbs like Teliya Kand which is long supposed to convert base metal into gold, a part of Indian alchemy Rasashastra. I finally try to put forth the entire knowledge from perspective of sociological theory of Greater Tradition and Lesser Tradition first put forth by te American Anthropologist Ridert Redfield. through the theory I try to analyse how we can infer such rituals, traditions knowledge so that we can decode the cryptic knowledge in Greater Traditions of Vedas and Tantra to arrive at a higher technology to make our life qualitative and stable. These are the questions I try to put forth towards youth and all enthusiast of Veda Ayurveda Yoga & Tantra.


Timeline of this video

00:00 Start of The video, Introduction to the video

00:35 Start of the interview with snake bite venom healer from Naranag Kashmir. How he uses mantra and ayurvedic herb to cure snake bites in animals and people. How he diagnosis, how he knows if the patient is recovering. How did he learn this art

02:30 A small ontroduction about Rasashastra by me, Indian ancient alchemy. How its purpose was to turn base metals to gold known as Lohvedha . How the search led to discovery of many entities which had health benefits known as Dehvedha especially Bhasma , which lie at the foundational algorithm of modern nano medicine. 

03:30 Introducing the arguable pla nt known as Teliya Kand. The plant is understood as being magical and the oil procured from it can turn base metal to gold. How it is described and identified. Are there sankes at its root. How t get the so called precious oil 

04:05 Our healer talks about his experience with teliya kand. How his father collected the herb when he was young. How he managed to control the snakes at its roots. How they used the herb to get massive butter from milk at home

06:24 I summarise the interview from the viewpoint of tradition. The thoery of sociology as explained by American anthropologist Robert Redfield about Greater Tradition and Lesser Tradition. How this theory can be used to understand the value and hidden knowledge from these lesser traditions of folk medicine, magical rituals etc. How the serve as an interconnect link between the cryptic knowledge hidden in greater traditions of Tantra and Veda. I cite the example of how our healers collection methods align with the Posion healer mentioned in greater traditions of Ayurveda

07:50 Our healer informs how he uses Mantra to collect plants, How he goes late night early morning and secures a parametr around the herbs. How herbs are hidden and reveal themselves after Mantra. How the herbs and plants talk to the healer and reveal their use in health and environment

08:28 I finally put forth the lessons we can learn from the interview. How we can judge such knowledge from 4 possible ways, Occult mystical and esoteric science, Modern technology to understand chemical composition of plants, Environmental social and cultural boundaries where we look towards conservation or we dismiss them as hocus pocus kae superstition. I also discuss how we can shoft ourr view towards the lesser traditions, ritual etc so we can arrive at a higher technology coded in vedas and Tantra




Wednesday, September 15, 2021

Manasbal, the divine unknown abode of Shiva in Kashmir that grants Moksha

Known as Laghu Tirtha, The holy Manasbal is beleived to be a centre of liberation Moksha for all pilgrims who cannot undertake the holy pilgrimage of Kailasha Manasaorver in Tibet.The lake amidst its east bank holds a majestic shiva temple, submerged in a spring..

Timeline of Video

00:00 Start of the video with drone shots of Manasbal lake

00:15 Manasbal lake location. How Manasbal is an important pilgrimage site. Manasbal derives its name from holy Manasaorvar lake situated at foothill of the holy Kailasha mountain in Tibet. How visiting Manasbal offers liberation or Moksha similar to undertaking the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra. A bit about the ecology of the lake and how its is an important environmental location for bird watching

01:37 About the submerged Shiva temple located on the east banks of Manasbal Lake. 

02:29 Loading and eating options at Manasbal lake. Where to eat and stay at Manasbal, How to book hotels at Manasbal. Mata Kheer Bhawani temple just 12 kms from Manasbal



Monday, September 6, 2021

Bangus Valley Kashmir , Virgin Valley Amidst The LOC India

Bangus valley is an untouched virgin valley that lies bang near the LOC between India & POK. Potential to be Asia's largest golf course, this valley is full of rare himalayan herbs, multicoloured flora , lush green alpine meadows & snow capped peaks. Camping here gives a raw rustic feel of nature. "Beautiful is dangerous ".. The valley has been hidden , inaccessible & one of the best kept secrets of Kashmir as it falls near the LOC between India & Pakistan Occupied Kashmir or POK. Very recently it has been opened for tourism, though only locals from Kashmir predominantly visist it. A short vlog on Bangus valley Kashmir 

TIMELINE OF THIS VIDEO

00:00 Start of video with drone shots of Bangus valley Kashmir India which lies on the LOC between India & Pakistan Occupied Kashmir or POK

00:15 Introducing Bangus valley. How the word Bangus is dervied from Sanskrit. The exapnse and geology of this sub Himalayan valley Bangus which lies along the Mawri river. Division of the valley into Big Bangus or  Bada Bangus  or Boud Bangus and Chota Bangus or Lokut Bangus or Small Bangus.

00:50 The 3 routes to access Bungus valley. The shortest from Rajwar Handwara. Handwara route is inaccessible due to militant infilitration & being an hot zone. The 2nd route through Langait. Langet route is long though climb is short. The 3rd & easier route through Kupwara. The vehicular road leads to base of Bungus via Chowkibal , TeePee. 

01:46 How I planned my trip to Bangus while researching route to Ma Bhadrakali temple at Bhadrakal Handwara Kashmir. How the army gave me special permission to access Bangus through Handwara and allowing Drone photography. How I finally reached Bangus through Kupwara

02:39 About tourist amenities , infrastructure at Bangus. All about permits to visit Bangus valley. All about camping at Bangus valley Kashmir. A bit about army checkposts on the way to Bangus and the necessary permits and travel information to reach Bangus 

04:27 Tourism option in Bangus valley. What to see and experience in Bangus Valley. Kajinag mountain which is 15500 high, holds the divine mystical Kajinag and Satkhol Nag springs. Kajinag lies on the LOC between India & POK. Shamsabari mountain at 12000 feet gives panoramic view of valley. It has glaciers and many options for summer & winter trekking.

05:17 How Militancy has affected the Bangus valley in Kashmir , kept it hidden, inaccessible & virgin . How tourism can affect the valley positively and negatively. Ho can militancy in Kashmir remote parts or parts that lie near the LOC be finished by promoting sustainable summer & winter eco tourism at Bangus valley. 




Monday, August 30, 2021

The only surviving Ma Bhadrakali Temple of Kashmir

Timeline of the video with detailed description

00:00 Start of the Video with entrance to Ma Bhadrakali Temple Bhadrakal village Wadipora Neilpora Handwara Kashmir India LOC

00:18 Climbing up steep ascent of 500 steps towards the top of hill of Bhadrakal to reach temple. Discussing the history of Kul Devi worship of Kashmir. How Nilmat Purana, the oldest treatise of Kashmir describes elaborately about Bhadrakali Mata , The Chaitra Navratri of Ma Bhadrakali where she is worshipped on all 9 days with Mata kheer Bhavani. The nine forms of Durga & how Bhadrakali corresponds to Siddhidhatri form of Durga

01:51 Reaching the inner sanctorum of Ma Bhadrakali temple. Bhadrakali vs Kali ?. How is Ma Bhadrakali worship different and older than Ma Kali worship. How Kashmir Shaivism, Trika & Tantra sadhna influenced Ma Bhadrakali worship in kashmir. Bhadrakali was the prime goddess before 6th century AD as references from Nilmat Purana .King Pravarsena and installation of Sri Chakra in Kashmir in 6th Century. Influences of Abhinavgupta, Somananda & Jayaratha around 8th Century which led to Tantra Sadhna and emerging form of Kali. How Bhadrakali resembles the Agni of Veda. Definition of Kali as Kala or Time. Introducing the rare book Devi Rahasya which contains Mantra sadhna of many Devis. Introducing the rare Uddharkosa which contains cryptic energetic algorithms of Ma Bhadrakali Bija Mantra , Ma Bhadrakali sadhna and Ma Bhadrakali upasna

04:14 A short clip that links my Bhadrakali sadhna demonstration where I use Ma Bhadrakali  Bija Mantra  or Bhadrakali seed syllable to control body heat by breath in extreme cold temperatures. 

04:34 Why did Bhadrakali upasana decline in Kashmir. How did Bhadrakali & Kali forms got merged into one. The advent of Islam in Kashmir in 14th century & destruction of Hindu culture. The advent of Dogra kingdom in 19th century and revival of Hinduism. Bhadrakali worship decline in Kashmir yet prominent in Kupwara, Handwara & Magam. The only surviving temple of Ma Bhadrakali in Bhadrakal village Handwara

05:25 Introducing Shriman Panditji Maharaj. Why Panditjee Maharaj is known as "Sage of Bhadrakal". His contributions in renovation of Bhadrakal temple & making a vehicular road to the temple. His installation of the current Ashtadhatu Murti or idol of Bhadrakali Ma in 1966 adjacent to the ancient stone statue of Ma Bhadrakali which is 4 feet long 

05:51. How Kashmiri militants and kashmiri terrorist destroyed Bhadrakali temple in 1996. How the blasted and damaged the ancient 4feet Ma Bhadrakali Murti or idol or statue and killed the pujari or priest of the temple. How the Ashtadhatu Murti was hidden from Militants for safety. In 2004 & sector of Rashtriya Rifles of Indian Army or the current 21RR unit restored the Bhadrakali temple. How the procured the lost hidden Ashtadhatu Murti and installed it on the remnant parts of the old stone murti. How the parts were collected and restored

06:41 The legend and history of the unique Deodar tree that covered the stone Murti from ancient times. The army wanted to structure and design it . When they tried to cut the bark, a blood type red exudate emerged from its bark. The deodar tree spilled blood. The army realised the tree to be a part of energy of devi Bhadrakali. The kept the tree as its is and made it a part of the inner sanctorum of the temple. Ma Bhadrakali Jayanti or Bhadrakali birthday is celebrated on Jyeshta Krishna Ekadashi or the 11 day after full moon or waning moon in hindu month of Jyeshta or May & June.  Ma Bhadrakali fair or Ma Bhadrakali yatra is organised by the 21 RR unit of Indian army to this temple on this day

07:14 How to reach Ma Bhadrakali temple in North Kashmir. What are the permits required to visit?. A note about visiting Bangus valley from Handwara. End of the video

Free PDF download links for Sanskrit Books mentioned in the video

Udarkośa / Devi Rahasya

https://ia801602.us.archive.org/1/items/in.ernet.dli.2015.313570/2015.313570.Devi-Rahasya.pdf

Nilmat Puran 

https://archive.org/download/nilamatapurana/nilamata_purana.pdf

Tantraloka of Abhinavgupta

https://archive.org/download/tantraloka/tantraloka.pdf





Monday, August 23, 2021

The Lost Abode of Shiva, Divine Kashmir

Naranag or Wangnath group of temples are heritage archeological site of Kashmir. Filled with rich history of divine mystical Lord Shiva energy, they now lie in ruins. Nestled amidst the holy energetic lands of the Haramukh Mountains, the ethereal abode of Shiva that represents Kundalini power potential; from whom his Shakti in form of Gangabal lake & Nundkol lake flow as kinetic pathways,  completing the Mahā Yantra at Konsernag , where the feet of Lord Viśnu lie  in South Kashmir, Naranag temples potray the Jyeśtarudra and Bhuteśvara forms of Mahādeva. Purana mentions of this place as the hermitage of Riśi Vaśiśtha , a place where Lord Śiva protected Mā Pārvati (she is also known as Jyeśtha) from demons. Hence the Jyeśtharudra & Bhuteśvara form. With rich heritage right from the time of King Jaluka, the son of Samrat Ashoka to the flamboyant charismatic King Lalitaditya Muktapida & finally King Avantivarman, the temple complex now stands in utter ruins with abyss of its past glory & the potential energy it emits.


Timeline of Video

00:00 Start of the video with some Drone shots of Naranag or Wangnath temple

00:40 Brief History of Naranag temples, Puranic association with the hermitage of Rishi Vasishta, LordShiva Jyeshtha Rudra form, where he protects Mata Parvati also known as Jyeshtha from demons, The Bhuteshvara forms,Rich History from time of King Jaluka the son of King Ashoka, to Lalitaditya Muktapida & finally Avantivarman. Locaton of the temple & how to reach Naranag from Srinagar

02:26 The present day condition of the temples, the ruins and demolished Shivalinga, The structure of the complex with East & West group of temples with Matha structures in between, The Muslim caretaker of the temple , the secular framework of Naranath, Lodging and boarding options in Naranag

03:35 The current maintenance & security measures at Naranag, Tourist facilities by Jammu Kashmir government at Naranag. Conservation apathy of the temple complex. A bit about the Naranag Gangabal Haramukh trek, How visiting the holy Haramukh, Gangabal lake , bathing in waters of Nundkol & returning back to the temple emits divine Shiva Shakti energy.

04:37 Thoughts about creating a Temple Trust here which may boost tourism & infrastructure. Chances of reinstating the Shiva linga or creating a small Shiva temple which may restart pilgrimage & create job opportunities for locals going a long way in abolishing the political social instability in this part of Kashmir. 





Tuesday, June 1, 2021

Nandadevi East Himalayas Best Kept Secrets, Divine Uttarakhand

 A recount from my archives about a special trip to Nandadevi East base in 2012 , the last time I could procure the mutant red flowered Jatamansi, used in meditation & Śiva Tatva upāsna

Timeline of Video 00:00 Introduction to Video 00:43 About Nanda Devi Mountain, Goddess Nanda & Sunanda , Their importance in the Culture of Uttarakhand 01:36 Introduction to Ayurvedic herb Jatamansi, Its religious spiritual importance in Yoga & Meditation, Varieties, Red flowered Jatamansi 02:18 Where the Red Flowered Jatamansi is found, How Yogi's identify it , Why I undertook this journey to Nanda Devi East Base camp 03:06 Lost Nuclear Device in Nanda Devi, Why it is a protected reserve , Why is it difficult to obtain permissions to enter in the park 03:39 About the Nanda devi Base Camp trek, Logistics & Planning, Reaching Munsiyari 04:20 Meeting with my Guide . Why I wanted more porters & less mules ? 05:00 Day 1 Start of the trek . Reaching Lilam 06:05 Day 2 Trek from Lilam to Nahardevi 06:34 Day 3 Trek from Nahardevi to Martoli village 07:23 Day 4 Trek from Martoli to Ganghar village. Description enroute of trek route to Milam glacier via Burfu 08:07 A pivotal point in my journey. My guides unwillingness to camp at Nanda Devi east. A bold decision by me to take a risk and camp alone. 09:28 With risky alterations we commence last 6 km trek to Base Camp. Friends suffer Altitude sickness and Summit fever. 10:47 Waking up at Brahma Muhurta and searching for Red Jatamansi as per guidance by Himalayan Yogis, Magical Light on Nanda Devi 11:48 Documentation, Jatamansi Collection 12:26 My reflections of the Risk taken, Regrets and Content. 13:26 Day 5 Reaching Rilkot by evening 13:39 Day 6 Reaching Munsiyari and saving a day 14:04 Insights on why this trek is special to me 14:21 Final Thoughts



Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Lord Hanumana & Its two Forms of Mystica Bija Mantra Fraum (फ्रॐ, फ्रौं)


Lord Hanumāna (हनुमान) is an immensely popular. His form and aura is worshipped for many material and spiritual gains with utmost diversity that parallels none. From the Bhakti(भक्ति) of immense surrender to Sri Rāma to the Tantric Yantric forms of Hanumāna (हनुमान) to derive powerful Siddhi’s (सिद्धि), Hanumāna is one all encompassing force that represents the epitome of algorithms of complete creation & complete withdrawal. Hanumāna (हनुमान) is the most powerful of all carrying the Śiva Tatva (शिव तत्व) within yet he  spontaneously surrenders to Sri Rāma without any awareness of his supreme Tatva, not by choice or force or awareness of Sri Rāma but through process of complete withdrawal. Yet in his other forms he represents the complete purity of material creation balancing the cosmic Prāna (प्राण) . 


Hence Lord Hanumāna (हनुमान) is worshipped in many forms through many mantras in many lineages without any prejudice from the annals of Bhakti to the Tantric Yantric forms of Hanuman to attain material and esoteric siddhi’s. Though there innate ways of mantra, yantra  to worship him and absorb the magnum of Hanumāna (हनुमान) , there is this one special distinct bija  (बिज) /seed mantra (मंत्र) which epitomises the entire magnanimity of the force Hanumāna (हनुमान). This bija is the very root of all withdrawal and expressive forces within us & it continuously keeps chugging, yet we rarely are aware of it. Because most times Bija come across as  syllables that make no logical sense . They are mostly used as part of a 9 lettered Bija Mantra or part of a long Japa Mantra, either as an adjuvant or in a series.  Understanding the annals of this special bija of Hanumāna , firstly by being aware and then under a Guru can help decode many mysteries within and outside

  • This bija is fraum ( फ्रौं)
  • It is pronounced as phraum 
  • There are 2 versions of it
  • A version within फ्रॐ 
  • and an all encompassing version that builds on the former represented as फ्रौं
  • The annals of both to be strictly learn’t under a Guru


Though it may appear that between the two there is just a difference of how I am writing it, I assure you there is much more to it. Since my small write up is on application, I will concentrate on the first form  (फ्रॐ) expounding only on it’s Prākrita Dhvani (प्राकृत ध्वनि) or without any of its total chant resonance


Let’s have a look at the etymology of the seed Phraum. Please note that though I am breaking up the syllables for minute understanding, the seed is always integral . For those who meditate on its integrals the derivative appear as an experience.


pha + ra + AUM

फ् + र् + = फ्रॐ


Sounded as pha & written as फ्  syllable in sanskrit it represents the acoustics of Vāyu  (Agni Purāna  अग्नि पुराण Chp. 348). In brief it understands motion by experience of sound. This term is attributed in sanskrit by some scholars as jhanjhantava (झनझननत्व). An example would be when we hear the sound of lightning we spontaneously imbibe its motion


Ra (र्), This half syllable represents acoustics of Agni (अग्नि) , or as the Agni Purāṇa (अग्नि पुराण), Chp.348  states , the acoustic strength of Indra ( इंद्र), the Vajra (वज्र). From the example I gave of lightning , the sound also makes us realise the immense heat of an thunderbolt

So one can understand that pha + ra together represents in acoustics  the integral properties of Vayu & Agni (अग्नि) as one. A rare combination 


The AUM () here is not the 3.5 lettered Nada , but  is just the extension of  PhaRa in form of propulsion of the Thunderbolt. As the Thunderbolt is heard and seen with its motion and fire it represents the release of Pranava (प्रणव) or AUM or the cosmic Prāna. Here there is no AUM as distinct but a natural continuation of pha + ra if it combines in proper unison 


So it is not
फ् + र् + = फ्रॐ
but  फ् + र् -> फ्र->

In real world scenario this represents a  rhythm which constantly is propelling the Prāna (प्राण), which enables us to live, create things , feel omnipotent, feel surrendered and feel completely withdrawn


Lets take a simple example 


While sleeping most times we cease to be aware of our surroundings. The sense response is also minimal. The Prāna (प्राण) enters the body with acoustics of Pha / (In snoring one can hear the friction known as Gharsna (घर्षण), the sound of entering prāna.  The acoustics of pha as it enters creates in symbiosis the acoustics of Ra or Agni (अग्नि) as integral. This propels the Pranava,  the AUM enveloped by Phra, replenishing all energy units in the body. If this system works well, the Vajra of Indra becomes imbibed within & we wake up all refreshed invincible like a Vajradehi.

Similarly this bija works each moment within us waking, sleeping meditating to keep our Prānic system as Vajradehi (वज्रदेहि). It gets stimulated each time we have a sense response of Touch, Smell, Taste, Sight and Sound. When our Prāna (प्राण) gets disturbed in disease, stress etc, this Gharshana of Phra ceases to exist as its acoustics get disturbed . The prānic connect with senses becomes volatile. Mind wavers in many directions. The acoustic propel  of Pranava (AUM) is lost. In fear, in failures, in over indulgence, the 22,600 Prāna (प्राण) expanse becomes brittle. 


Though there are many ways to achieve this prānic balance through various schools of thoughts , & lineages of bhakti, mantra, tantra etc, the knowledge of Fraum is the most subtle and shortest way to be there. Of course the Bija in itself is not as simple, its intricacies must be learnt under a Guru, because any acoustics movement of  Prāna (प्राण) create a forwarding resonance that affects how Prāna (प्राण) is further exchanged within micro channels. But a simple visualisation of the Prakrit dhvani of Fraum will speed up awareness in all your sādhnās (साधना).


Try this experiment on your own  especially  if you find difficulty in sleeping, due to blocked sinus, bad dreams, nightmares, stress etc where mind is constantly wavering


If you are unlucky to observe someone snoring in deep sleep, just concentrate and register the sound of inhale, the friction. 

Wash your eyes, your feet with cold water before going to bed, maybe take a cold bath, wear light clothes

As you sleep close your eyes and nonchalantly visualise the the syllable Phra (फ्र) in form of the acoustics of snore that you registered.

Once done just synchronise the sound with your inhale as visual letter Phra (फ्र). Do not chant it

No need visualise or chant AUM () on exhale , because if you get the Phra right, the will follow by itself in sync There is no other way to it…
Keep doing this for minimum 5-6 minutes and then observe the difference..



One can implement this method of visualisation of Phraum in many walks of life & hence Hanuman Tantra is considered a Sampurna Vidyā (संपुर्ण विद्या) / Absolute Kbowledge , which needs to be learnt from a Guru


VERSION 2


As mentioned earlier this same bija Fraum changes completely in acoustic & becomes highly powerful as we imbibe the syllable  Ram(रां) in it, the all encompassing bija of Prabhu Śri Rāma. Here Rāma (रां) denotes the Agni (अग्नि) Tatva but its different from Ra() explained earlier


Rāma (रां) resembles the transformation property of Agni (अग्नि) and not its acoustics.Its pure Agni (अग्नि) devoid of sound. This one syllable changes the entire nature of Hanuman Vidyā (विद्या). The same Bija of Hanumāna (हनुमान) then decodes as

pha Rām

फ् + रां = फ्रां = फ्र( ) -> फ्रौं


Here the Pranava () is imbibed not as propulsion of Phra (फ्र) but as the acoustic totality of cosmos. Here the AUM registers as a Nāda & Nādānta .This bija hence has to be learnt under a Guru as it contains the ultimate Sri Rāma (रां) Hanumāna (हनुमान) Vidyā (विद्या) which takes one from complete expansion of Siddhis as Hanumāna to complete withdrawal into the state of Prabhu Śri Rāma


Aum Fraum Aum Shri Rāma Rāma Hanumate Namah

फ्रौं श्री रां राम हनुमते नम:


 A blessed Hanumāna Jayanti to all


Image by Ninassarts Stock Photos from Pixabay




Sunday, August 23, 2020

India's Secularism problem....DharmaNirpekśatā Vs SamaDharmaSamabhāva

The recent incidents of Lord Ganesha murti's being desecrated in a shop at Bahrain have been acting like a fuel towards concepts of religious tolerance and idea of secularism.Though the incident is sad & devastating to see for all who resonate with Lord Ganesha, on a generalised level it is  understood that certain countries strictly follow a particular faith in totality as a law.  Hence any kind of tolerance towards any other faith  must not be expected from them; If it is there it can only be  respected.   In countries of middle-east where all Islamic protocols  are followed as law any deviations also incur punishment.  Their policies regarding religion are clear cut  & any migrants who go there for economic or other purposes subconsciously are aware of this adherence. This small incident incites me to reflect on India considered as a Secular Democracy & the very tenets of Religious tolerance which have evolved over time especially with Islam, the future & the foundations.  It wont be wrong to say that India historically  has accommodated all faiths with high amalgamation. Zoroastrian, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism have totally merged in the concept of India.  Even to a larger extent "the Abrahamic complex"  has found its own ground. However when it comes to Islam there have been a lack of prudence.  With time this disparity which to be honest  has been exploited for politics leading from partition to terrorism & the threats its posses it sometimes make sense to dwell on its foundations.

We humans are symbolic species. We associate our struggles, failures, success through associations from history, their relavance in present & the projections in future. Physical Structures like monuments, temples, mosques give as a sense of belonging. Be it Kaba or Kedarnath, the very vision of them reaffirms our religious lineage, throws us in a realm of that unbroken chain of divinity making sense of our existence from birth to death & thereafter. This elaboration may help us understand the roots of disparity amongst communities.  Though Jainism, Buddhism or any other concepts of spirituality have met with resistance with the fundamentalist of their own faith, for most parts it has been a evolutionary process towards coexistence. If we scan through history, there is hardly any place of worship of a Agiyari, a Monastery or a Gurudwara which is located on a land of dispute. Neither is there any tyrannical history to their  constructions. These structures have been accepted & amalgamated without a trace. To be fair most of these faiths were born in India & evolved from prevailing religious diaspora , while some like Parsi faith sought refuge in India & blended over time. So we can make some logical sense behind their coexistence. 

India was invaded by two faiths,  Abrahamic complex & Islam. Invasions are always brutal. History has taught us that. They happen with force with an intent to stamp the authority of the invader in terms of beliefs, economy & lifestyle. If we trace the history of "Abrahamic conceptual influences" on India, in terms of Portuguese, Dutch, French & the British we hardly find any conflicts with their structures of worship.   Though India has considerable number of churches & chapels very few have been on disputed lands or built on foundations of temple. Even if it maybe so, most have lost their symbolic values or have mutually dissolved in coexistence.

In that sense the Islamic invasion of India is distinct   Though as violent as any invasions, it has managed to leave a symbolic trail behind it. A trail of utmost disparity. It wont be entirely wrong to say that many mosques in India have been built by razing temples. It's hard to believe that the Islamic invaders did not have accessibility to any open real estate. The reasons to raze temples and build mosque must have been purely political as a show of strength. It's easy to kill a man who does not obey, but hard to kill a community with strong faith. Weaken the faith & the ensuing chaos gives control. This tyrannical invasions were rapid & followed a plan to control the wealth of India very much like all invaders tried to do.

As India ushered from these scenarios towards a republic , the symbolic structures slowly keep reflecting the tyranny. It becomes difficult to ignore  the oppression that gets carried over from generation to generation finding parallels in current thought actions & environment. The theory that with education, the world would become less radical & more inclusive is slowly going out of the window. The reasons for this especially for India and its youth lie in the concept of secularism. The word instills moral high ground when thought, discussed but fails miserably on application. Though they're maybe many parallel , I have my own inferences of why it fails.

Let us start with definition of Secularism

  • Politically it defines "Separation of religious institutions from state institutions and a public sphere where religion may participate, but not dominate.Equality so that our religious beliefs or lack of them doesn't put any of us at an advantage or a disadvantage".
  • Religion wise it defines as "Freedom to practice one's faith or belief without harming others, or to change it or not have one, according to one's own conscience".

We can derive that  there is slight difference between Secular State & Secular mind. A secular state basically talks about a framework where laws are not modelled on a religious guidelines that invade the privacy of others. A secular mind defines the freedom to practise ones faith without interfering with others. We can logically ascertain that to create a secular state we do not require a secular mind, but just a majority to arrive at a consensus. 

Now let us take 2 definitions of secularism as understood in India

DharmaNirpekśatā (धर्मनिरपेक्षता) & SamaDharmaSamabhāva (सम धर्म समभाव)। Though both may sound & mean same there is a etymological difference in understanding & application. 

  • DharmaNirpekśatā means, "I do not expect you to follow or understand  or influence my faith, but to respect its existence as I do for yours".
  • SamaDharmaSamabhāva means "As i feel towards my religion, same I feel for all".

The former in a nutshell gives an idea of applicative secularism. Where truth prevails, where there is no fantasising of a moral high ground.  This is the example why Parsi, Buddhism, Jainism & many other faiths coexisted & progressed in India. To a larger extent even the "Abrahamic concepts" found their own peace. The latter projects idealism. On applicative grounds, it is far from truth. To be honest, Religion is personal which ever we may follow. How one  perceives divinity depends on ones own experiences & relativity which keeps evolving over time. The friction between Islam & Hinduism lies here. Idealism in words forces to reflect SamaDharmaSamabhāva when practically DharmaNirpekśatā is required. A Secular State built on guidelines of SamaDharmaSamabhāva will always have shades of secessionism, appeasements & political opportunism. There is thin line between uniformity of rules for all & prejudice. What may seem a straightforward rule in one faith may blur the lines of religious apathy in others. On the contrary a Secular state built on honesty of DharmaNirpekśatā can lay down solid rules of acceptance & application which over time can create a strong cultural foundation.

Though there are many layers to this , a positive start towards this shift can be done with symbolism. A time where we all make amends to erase the symbolic gestures of past & start at neutral with DharmaNirpekśatā model of Secularism. Mosques built on places which historically have been a landmark of Hindu faith and history must be corrected by Islamic youth themselves. Similarly mosques who with time themselves have become a larger symbol of Islam must be accepted & restored by others. This can be done creating a national charter in an organised manner. We can take cues from the fact that there are temples & mosques in India which have no complex tyrannical history & have amalgamated into secular lands. There are Mosques which Hindus visit &  there are temples which Muslims visit. 

This shift however simple it may sounds, it has its political hurdles & manifesto.  Religion, faith & its flow are primordial instincts of Human mind because it is its inherent nature to surrender to a higher calling which it holds as primordial entity towards creation. A logical affirmation to alogical happenings that surround us depicting fear, ecstasy, health, disease, happiness & suffering. Eventually as India becomes a nation with youngest population globally, the onus lies on them how they want to refine their history & redefine their future...



Kashi Viśvanātha Temple & the Gyānvyāpi Mosque



Budh Masjid, Bareily (built by Hindu's)



Disclaimer

Post reflects general views of author & does not endorse or look to hurt any religious beliefs & sentiments. 





Thursday, August 6, 2020

AYODHYĀ, PRABHU ŚRI RĀMA TEMPLE & A PĀRIJĀTAKA TREE...

Pārijata,  the tree of heavens will be planted at an  auspicious time along with the Bhumi Pujan of Prabhu Sri Rāmachandraji’s temple at Ayodhyā on the special Abhijita Muhurta (the smallest of all when Sri Ramchandraji chose to take the Avtāra) by the Honorable PM. This tree has mystical history & very mystical benefits. Let us look at some mentions of its origins


Pārijata is a heavenly tree brought to earth by Bhagwān Sri Kriśna. A quarrel over it ensued between Satyabhāmā and Rukmini, Śri Kriśna’s wives. But Sri Kriśna planted the tree in Satyabhāmā’s courtyard in a way, that when the tree flowered, the flowers fell in Rukmini’s courtyard. It is believed that the Pāndava Arjuna from Mahābhārata sought the Pārijata tree from heavens & planted it on earth. Its flowers were offered to Mahādeva Śiva by his mother Kunti in form of  a crown  . Hence its called "Hara (Śivji’s) Śringāra (adornment) ". Some notes mention that Pārijata was formed from the ashes of Kunti. As per Harivamsha Purāna Pārijata was formed out of Samudramanthana (churning of ocean, पारिनहसमुद्रथ जाथो पारिजात:). This tree was taken to Swarga by Lord Indra, where only the Apsarā named Urvaśi had the priviledge to touch it. The tree does not produce any seeds nor can it be propogated by stem, roots. This tree flowers sometimes at night which crumble & soil as dawn sets in. These flowers are used in oblation of Godess Laxmi, but only those flowers which have fallen on its own accord to the ground & never plucked. Hence as per Śastra's it is prohibited to pluck the flowers of Pārijata tree. Āyurveda has mentioned immense benefits of these plants. There is no fever, no pain, no misery of the body & mind that this plant cannot cure..


The currently botanical identified plant is Nyctanthes-arbor-tristis but is this the plant mentioned in Śastra's??


Some accept the Baobab tree (Adansonia digitata) as the heavenly Pārijata. Adansonia species are endemic to  Arica & Australia. However the rare protected plant at Kintur situated in Barabanki disrtrict in UP comes close to the Parijat tree mentioned in Harivamsha Purāna where it is mentioned as the Kalpavrikśa (wish fulfilling tree). Newly-weds visit this tree for blessings, and every Tuesday a fair is held where local people worship this tree.


This plant though a Baobab is distinctly diffrent from its other counterparts. It is mentioned in that the highly knowledgabe & brilliant Lanka King Rāvana planted the branches of this tree all around Śākhādvipa (which is corelated to Africa) on instructions of Riśi’s. However these plants developed different charecters due to Rākśasa energy from the original divine plant. (chemotype variations??)


On deep inspection, the baobab trees are rare in India, even so much in the fertile Gangetic plains. Whatever trees are there are old & protected now by Archeological Survey of India. On other hand the currently accepted source Nyctanthes-arbor-tristis is endemic to Indian subcontinent & parts of Southeast asia. Baobab tree locally is identified as Gorakśachincha (a tree attributed to the Nath sampradāya, who are master alchemist & Tantra adepts) . 


So what would be planted .....?


Jai Siā Rāma...





Wednesday, January 15, 2020

MAKARA SANKRANTI, ETYMOLOGY, SPIRITUAL & HEALTH SIGNIFICANCE, PAN INDIA CELEBRATIONS..AN OVERVIEW


Introduction

The term “Sankrānti ( sama + krānti सम् + क्रान्ति) “ in jyotishā (vedānga) means passing over (kranti) of the sun in a natural algorithmic form (sama). As per Vedic calendars, Sankrānti occurs every month (which falls on the last day of every month of the Vedic calendar or Panchanga) as the sun transits from one zodiac to another totalling 12 Sankrānti’s.
Makara (मकर) is the zodiac (Capricorn), So Makara Sankrānti = sun entering the Makara in its natural algorithmic form with respect to earth. On this day of Makara Sankrānti the Sun transits from Saggitarius (Dhanu) to the tropic Capricorn (Makara).

Although each Sankrānti has its own reverence with respect to health, agriculture and spiritual focus in Indian culture; the two Sankrāntis; Karka (कर्क)  (Cancer) and Makara (Capricon) are considered very important as the mark the solstices or the movement of the sun to “Dakshināyana ( दक्षिणायन south) and Uttarāyana( उत्तरायण north) respectively.

While the traditional Indian Calendar is basically based on lunar positions, but Sankrānti is a solar event, so while dates of all festivals keep changing, the English calendar date of Makara Sankrānti is mostly the same, 14th January (rarely it can shift a day due to some calculations). Makara Sankrānti is celebrated in the Hindu Calendar month of Māgha (माघ).

Post Makara Sankrānti, day length in Indian subcontinent and relative areas start getting longer.

SPIRITUAL SIGNIFICANCE
**************************************

As per Purāna(पुराण), the Sun visits the house of hid son, lord Shani [saturn] who is considered the master of the zodiac Makara[Capricorn]. It is presented in an interesting tale; the father and son are not on good terms, but the father makes it a point to visit his son once a year. So the Sankrānti denotes family virtues that even though one may not be on good terms with their parents,  the child has to carry forward the family as his/her father does.

Makara Sankrānti is also to honour, worship and to pay respect to Saraswati ( सरस्वती, Goddess of Knowledge). At the start of this significant event, there is also worship for the departed ancestors.

Makara Sankrānti identifies a period of enlightenment, peace, prosperity and happiness followed by a period of darkness, ignorance and viciousness with immense sorrow.  According to the lunar calendar, when the sun moves from the Tropic of Cancer to the Tropic of Capricorn or from Dakshināyana to Uttarāyana, in the month of Pusha (पौष, in mid-January), it commemorates the beginning of the harvest season and cessation of the northeast monsoon in South India. Makara Sankrānti apart from a harvest festival is also regarded as the beginning of an auspicious phase in Indian culture. It is denoted as the 'holy phase of transition'. It marks the end of an inauspicious phase which according to the Hindu calendar begins around mid-December. It is believed that any auspicious and sacred ritual can be sanctified in any Hindu family, this day onwards. Scientifically, this day marks the beginning of warmer and longer days compared to the nights. In other words, Sankrānti marks the termination of winter season and beginning of a new harvest or spring season.

Importance of Sesame and Jaggery on Makara Sankrānti

Since the festival is celebrated in mid winter, food prepared for this festival is such that it keeps the body warm and gives high energy. Laddu of til made with Jaggery is a specialty of the festival. In the western Indian state of Maharashtra it is called 'Tilgul'. In Karnataka it is called 'Yellu-Bella'.

Makara Sankrānti References


Bhagavada Gita (भग्वद गीता)
Gīta illustrates that six months of Uttarāyana is the day time of deity and, the 6 months of Dakhshināyana is the night for Gods. It is believed that a person who sacrifices his body(dies) in Uttarāyana get a position in ‘Krishna Loka’. Uttarāyanaa is considered very auspicious for attaining higher worlds hereafter. That person gets liberation, whereas, the one who dies in Dakhshināyana, has to be reborn. Hence Uttarāyana is also known as Devāyana [Deva=god]

Mahābharata (महाभारत)
The words of Lord Krishna (भग्वान श्री कृष्ण) are further ascertained in Mahābharata. Bhishma was granted a boon of "Iccha Mrutyu" (which means he can choose his time of death). In the war of Mahābharata Bhishma lay in pain on a bed of arrows. Inspite of agony he did not give up his life in Dakshināyana and waited for the sun to enter the zodiac of Capricorn to discard his body.

River Ganga (गंगा)
It is believed that Goddess Ganga [the eternal holy river Ganga] followed Sage Bhagiratha  (भगिरथ)from heaven to earth till her course to the ocean in Bengal on the day of Makara Sankrānti.

It was on this day that Bhagiratha finally did tarpan (offering holy water for the soul of the dead) with the Ganges water for his unfortunate ancestors and thereby liberated them from the curse. After visiting the Pātāla (पाताल, the world underground) for the redemption of the curse of Bhagirath’s ancestors, Goddess Ganga finally merged in the Sagar. As of present, a grand  GangāSāgara (गंगासागर, the conjunction of Ganga and ocean at the Bay of Bengal) Mela (मेला, fair) is organised every year. Millions of devotees take a dip in the water and do tarpan for their ancestors.

Makara Sankrānti is considered that auspicious time when Lord Vishnu maintained harmony (sura, सुर) by vanquishing the disharmony in form of the asura (असुर) and burying their heads under the Mandāra Parvati. Hence this day indicates to all of us to end all our disharmonies (personal, spiritual, social, moral) or negativities and start afresh with positivity.


Celebrations as per different states in India

Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, on the Makara Sankrānti day, people exchange multi-coloured "tilgul (तिलगुळ)" made from tila (तिल, sesame seeds) and sugar,  and tila-laddu's (तिल-लड्डु) made from tila and jaggery(गुळ, gula). Gula-polis(jaggery stuffed flatbread) are offered for lunch. While exchanging tilguls as tokens of goodwill people greet each other saying – ‘til-gul ghya, god god bola (तिलगुळ घ्या गोड गोड बोला)’ meaning ‘accept these tilguls and speak sweet words’. The under-lying thought in the exchange of tilguls is to forget the past ill-feelings and hostilities and resolve to speak sweetly and remain friends.

This is a special day for the women in Maharashtra when married women are invited for a get-together called ‘Haldi-Kunku’( हल्दि कुंकु, turmeric (Haldi) & vermillion (kumkuma)) and given gifts such as utensil, clothes, etc., which the woman of the house purchases on that day. Typically, women wear black sarees or black colour dress on this occasion. The significance of wearing a black colour dress is Sankrānti comes at the peak of the winter season and black colour wear absorbs more heat and helps keep the body warm.

Rajasthan
This is one of the major festivals in the state of Rajasthan. It is known as "Makara Sakrat" in the Rajasthani language. This day is celebrated with sweets like Ghevar, Til-paati, Gajak, kheer etc.. Although traditionally flying kites is not observed as a part of this festivals, nowadays flying kites can be seen in some cities of Rajasthan. People invite friends and relatives to their home for special festival meals (called as "Sakrat Bhoj").

Uttar Pradesh
In Hindu Mythology this is the first of the big bathing days. Over two million people gather at their respective sacred places for this holy bathing such as Allahabad, Haridwar and Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. Kite flying is an inevitable part of the festival in Uttar Pradesh, as with many states of India such as Gujarat and Maharashtra. Like other places in India, the references to Til (Sesame seeds) and Gud (Jaggery) are also found in the songs sung on this day

Kumaon (Uttarakhand)
In the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand Makara Sankrānti signals a change of season, the migratory birds start returning to the hills. On Makara Sankrānti people give Khichadi (a mixture of pulses and rice) in charity, take ceremonial dips in holy rivers, participate in the Uttarāyana fairs and celebrate the festival of Ghughutia or Kale Kauva. During the festival of Kale Kauva (literal translation 'black crow') people make sweetmeats out of sweetened flour (flour and gur/ gula) deep fried in ghee, shape them like drums, pomegranates, knives, swords etc. They are strung together and worn as necklace-in the middle of which an orange in fixed. Early in the morning children wear these necklaces and sing "Kale Kauva.." to attract crows and other birds and offer them portions of these necklaces, as a token of welcome for all the migratory birds, who are now coming back after their winter sojourn in the plains.

Punjab
In Punjab where December and January are the coldest months of the year, huge bonfires are lit on the eve of Makara Sankrānti and is celebrated as Lohri. Sweets, sugarcane and rice are thrown in the bonfires, around which friends and relatives gather together. The following day, which is Sankrant, is celebrated as Maghi. Bathing in any river in the early hours on Maghi is important. Hindus light lamps with sesame oil as this is supposed to give prosperity and drive away all sins. The Punjabis dance their famous dance known as "Bhangra". Then they sit down and eat the sumptuous food that is specially prepared for the occasion. It is traditional to eat "kheer", rice cooked in milk and sugar.It is celebrated with pomp in southern parts of India as Pongal, and in Punjab as Maghi.

Tamil Nadu
Makara Sankrānti is known as Thai Pongal in Tamil Nadu. It is a four day festival in Tamil Nadu   

Orrisa
In Orrisa People prepare 'Makara chaula(uncooked newly harvested rice, banana, coconut, jaggery, sesame, rasagola, khoi and chhena puddings for offering (naivedya) to gods and goddesses. Makara Mela is observed at Dhabaleswar in Cuttack, Hatakeshwar at Atri in Puri, Makara Muni temple in Balasore and near various deities in each district of Orissa. In the temple of Lord Jagannath this festival is observed as 'Uttarāyanaa Yatra'. In Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar,kalahandi, koraput and Sundargarh where the tribal population is more, the festival is celebrated with great joy.

West Bengal
In West Bengal, Sankrānti, also known as Poush Sankrānti after the Bengali month in which it falls, is celebrated as a harvest festival Poush Parbon. The freshly harvested paddy along with the date palm syrup in the form of Khejurer Gur and Patali is used in the preparation of a variety of traditional Bengali sweets made with rice flour, coconut, milk and 'khejurer gur' (palm jaggery) and known as Pithey .  In the Himalayan regions of Darjeeling, the festival is known as Magey Sakrati. It is distinctly associated with the worship of Lord Shiva. Traditionally, people were required to take a bath before sunrise and then commence their pooja. The food that is consumed consists primarily of sweet potatoes and various yams.

Assam
In Assam, the festival is celebrated as Bhogali Bihu.

Karnataka
This is the Suggi or harvest festival for farmers of Kaveri basin of Karnataka. On this auspicious day, young females (kids & teenagers) wear new clothes to visit near and dear ones with a Sankrānti offering in a plate and exchange the same with other families. This ritual is called "Ellu Birodhu". Here the plate would normally contain "Ellu" (white sesame seeds) mixed with fried groundnuts, neatly cut dry coconut & fine cut "Bella(Jaggery)".  In some parts of Karnataka, a newly married woman is required to give away bananas for a period of five years to married women("muthaidhe") from the first year of her marriage, but increase the number of bananas in multiples of five. There is also a tradition of some households giving away red berries "Yalchi Kai" along with the above.

Another important ritual is the display of cows and cattle in colourful costumes in an open field. Cows are decorated for the occasion and taken on a procession. They are also made to cross a pyre. This ritual is common in rural Karnataka and is called "Kichchu Haisodhu."

Kerala
Makara Sankrānti is celebrated in Kerala at Sabarimala where the Makara Jyothi is visible followed by the Makara Vilakku celebrations. The 40 days "anushthana(अनुष्ठान) by the devotees of Ayyappan ends on this day in Sabarimala with a big festival.

Happy Makara Sankrānti।।।


Saturday, January 4, 2020

RARE INTERVIEW WITH A HIMALAYAN YOGI, HIMALAYAN MYSTIC, GARHWAL, UTTARAKHAND, BHAVISHYA BADRI

I was fortunate and highly lucky to be granted an interview with this true Himalayan mystic who resides at the heights of 10500 ft in the untouched, pristine holy divine place of Bhavishya Badri Dham. Initially, when I approached Swamiji he was reluctant to even speak to us, leave aside the camera. But by his divine grace, he finally agreed to grant an audience. He spoke on various topics from life in the Himalayas, to the survival of Yogi's in harsh geographical conditions. Medicinal herbs & most importantly about life, spirituality & the concept of existence. I had to really try hard t come up with questions. Many times Swamiji started with one topic but elaborated on many. In that lieu, I had to take many efforts to edit the video to be presented in a form where the flow of thoughts are structured and may benefit the audience. The entire video was shot handheld in extremely low light conditions and without use of a microphone. hence the quality may be bit low and audio a bit out of place. I hope this rare presentation may help the audience in understanding the world of Himalayan Yogi's.





 

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Monday, December 23, 2019

UNSEEN HIMALAYAS, NITI VILLAGE, HISTORY & CULTURE, EXOTIC PARADISE IN GARHWAL UTTARAKHAND

Interview with Mr Rana, the pradhan or head of Niti village, the last village on Indo-Tibet border. Trying to understand the culture and traditions of this migratory village which was once rich and prosperous. Boasting of quickest access to Manasarovar, it has many hidden and unexplored gems that would entice the tourist.




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UNSEEN HIMALAYAS SUSTAINABLE ECOTOURISM SUBHAIN VILLAGE GARHWAL 4K

A short interview with Mr Laxman Singh Rawat from Subhain village which is the base for the yatra to the Holy Bhavishya Badri Temple. The village is reached by a hard steep trek from Tapovan near Joshimath in Garhwal The Himalayas. Mr Rawat discusses local herbs used for emergency medicine, Agricultural practises & Tourism.




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HIMALAYAN AYURVEDA HERBS USED IN HAVANA, PUJA, RITUALS, GAMSHALI UTTARAKHAND VLOG 4K

In my quest to document traditional healers and herbal medicine, I visited Gamshali village. There I came across a village priest who informed about the use of some peculiar herbs in Nanda Devi Havan, which differs from traditional ones documented. It intrigued me to know more about them. Though most of them are Ayurveda medicine, it was interesting to know that, in spite of their traditional and historical use in rituals, the priest was unaware of their medicinal uses. As a routine, I had informed them about some safe medicinal uses in a bid to promote, Information exchange of traditional knowledge & to preserve biodiversity by encouraging sustainable picking. A small overview.




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UNSEEN HIMALAYAS, GAMSHALI, MIGRATORY VILLAGE A HIDDEN GEM IN GARHWAL 4k

I had a pleasure to stay at Gamshali village, the penultimate on the Indo-Tibetian border in Garhwal Himalayas 6km from Niti Village. Village is migratory but is sustainable. Ecotourism is slowly being promoted. Lying in offbeat Niti valley, it's unknown to many as tourist mostly go on opposite end at Badrinath and Mana. People are amazing, hospitable and one can experience pure environment with unspoilt canvas. A short documentary.



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UNSEEN HIMALAYAS, Rare Capture, Laspa Festival, Powerful Shakti Nanda Devi Festival, Niti Village,4k

Was fortunate enough to visit Neeti Village which lies at the Indo -Tibet border during October when the Laspa festival falls. During Laspa festival of Niti, Gram Devi's, a form of Nanda Devi are transported to houses. the festival is powerful and has many Shakta overtones. A small overview.




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Saturday, November 16, 2019

Buying Authentic Banarasi Saree in Varanasi, A Quick Guide under 6 mins. Hindi with Subs

Had the pleasure to visit a wholesale factory outlet of Banarasi Saree in Varanasi. Seeing the various intricacies about its production, its high value and fakes that flood the market, created a quick vlog for interested buyers. hope it helps.




 

 

If you consider supporting the service you can donate on the NLAM page. NLAM is an Ayurveda repository that conducts free online courses and also audio-visual content towards Ayurveda & Yoga. Helps me keep the services free and running.

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Women Healers of Himalaya, Ayurvedic Herbs Niti Village Uttarakhand, 10,000 ft 4K

Interview with a female Traditional Healer from Neeti Village about rare Himalayan herbs and their use in medicine and health. Neeti is the last village on Indo-Tibet border and is rarely traversed. Insights...

Herbs Covered

  • Eleusine coracana Linn, Poaceae, Mandua
  • Rhodiola Rosea Linn,  Crassulaceae, Solo
  • Bergenia ciliata (Haw.) Sternb., Saxifragaceae,   Syalphad
  • Aconitum balfourii Stapf, Ranunculaceae,  Meetha. Mitha jadi
  • Rheum moorcroftianum Royle,  Polygonaceae, Dolu
  • Dactylorhiza hatagirea (D.Don) Soo, Orchidaceae, Hathajadi
  • Aconitum heterophyllum Wall.ex Royle Ranunculaceae, Atees Atis
  • Nardostachys jatamansi (D.Don) DC, Caprifoliaceae,  Maasi Jatamansi
  • Picrorhiza kurrooa Royle ex.Benth, Plantaginaceae,  Kadwi Katuki, Kadu
  • Selinum vaginatum (Edgew.) C.B.Clarke, Apiaceae, Bhutkeshi
  • Swertia Chirayita (Roxb) Buch.-Ham.ex C.B.Clarke, Gentianaceae, Chiraitu Kiratikta
  • Swertia ciliata (D.Don ex G.Don) B.L.Burtt  Gentianaceae, Chirata
  • Arnebia benthamii (Wall. ex G. Don) Johnston, Laljadi Balchad
  • Origanum vulgare Linn, ChemoType Thymol, Banatulasi, Badritulasi
  • Selinum wallichianum (DC.) E. Nasir, comb. nov.  Umbelliferae, Takkar, Lehsra
  • Astragalus uttaranchalensis Chaudhary & Khan, Rudanti Ghritkumari

 

If you consider supporting the service you can donate on the NLAM page. NLAM is an Ayurveda repository that conducts free online courses and also audio-visual content towards Ayurveda & Yoga. Helps me keep the services free and running.

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