நம்முடன் வாழ்ந்த மஹான்கள்: Sri Sivan Sar

      Hey guys. This is the Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did on November 2, 2019. In this Satsangam, she talked about Sri Sivan Sar. She started off by describing Sri Sivan Sar as Parabrahmam. She described Sri Sivan Sar as Parabrahmam throughout the discourse. Afterwards, she talked about Sri Sivan Sar's childhood and how he is the younger brother of Mahaperiyava. She even described how Mahaperiyava and Sivan Sar were both great Mahaans who were connected through telepathic powers. Then, she detailed many interesting incidents and experiences involving Sri Sivan Sar. Subsequently, she talked about Sri Sivan Sar's book Yenippadigalin Maandhargal. The book contains all sorts of information, ranging from science, history, astronomy, Vedas, astrology, etc. She briefed the book and the vitality of it. The book is set to be the soul of Sri Sivan Sar and considered to be the protector of us. I found this topic very interesting because I came to know that my mom was reading Yenippadigalin Maandhargal just recently. Out of curiosity, I also read little excerpts of this book and found it very compelling and complicated as well. I was spellbound as well as astonished at how Sri Sivan Sar, a man who led a simple life, could write this intricate information from the evolution of humans all the way to the recent human progress. I was amazed at the experiences my mom described as well because there are numerous instances where Sri Sivan Sar proved to be unworldly and a great Mahaan. It was also an eye-opener that Sri Sivan Sar lived just in recent times and was also a greatly spiritual man, along with Sri Mahaperiyava. We all should follow his words and go in a Dharmic path. Here is the video below for நம்முடன் வாழ்ந்த மஹான்கள்: Sri Sivan Sar. Enjoy!

Sri Meenakshi Kalyanam

      Hey guys. This is the Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did on September 7, 2019. In this Satsangam, she talked about Sri Meenakshi Kalyanam. She started off by talking about the Mahimai of Meenakshi and greatness of Madurai. She talked mostly about how Meenakshi appeared to foreigners. Thus, we know if we cultivate the habit of sincere Bhakthi towards Meenakshi, Meenakshi will certainly give us grace. She quoted many incidents in history about how people have protected the deities in the Madurai Meenakshi Temple for us in this period from the Muslim invasions. The Chokanathar Perumal is not any man-made Lingam. It is an existing Lingam from Yugam to Yugam (period to period). Afterwards, she talked about Meenakshi Kalyanam. She also informed the philosophy behind the Meenakshi Kalyanam story where Meenakshi appeared with 3 breasts where the first breast represents Apara Gnanam, the second breast represents Para Gnanam, and the third breast represents our own ego. When we appear before God to get Gnanam, the ego should disappear. Then only we will get Gnanam and we will attain Moksham. I found this topic very interesting because this Satsangam happened right after Srinivasa Kalyanam. Also, coincidentally, the day we did the Satsangam was when the Meenakshi Kalyanam happened at Madurai. I have never heard about this story before, but after hearing this story, it was so compelling. I love how there were many small stories embedded inside the big topic of Sri Meenakshi Kalyanam and all these stories played a pivotal role in the formation of Meenakshi, the Mahimai of Madurai Meenakshi temple, and the greatness of Sri Meenakshi Kalyanam itself. Here is the video below for Sri Meenakshi Kalyanam. Enjoy!

Srinivasa Kalyanam

      Hey guys. This is the Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did on August 18, 2019. In this Satsangam, my mom talked about Srinivasa Kalyanam. She started off by talking about the greatness of the Thirupathi Punya Kshethram. Thirumalai has been existant from the age of Krutha Yugam. In today's time, Kali Yugam, Lord Venkateshwara is a Prathyaksha (Tangible presence) Deivam for anyone. Even now, millions of devotees are thronging the shrine every day. She talked about how MahaVishnu descents from Vaikundam to Boologam and lands on Thirumalai and gives grace to all the devotees. Thirupathi was originally known for it's name, Varaha Kshethram, but ever since Lord Venkateshwara came to Thirumalai, the name, Thirupathi, became prominent. She talked about the interesting story of how Lord Srinivasa got married to Padmavati and this is called as Srinivasa Kalyanam. I found this topic very interesting because we had just traveled to India this summer and we visited a number of temples over there, including Thirupathi. The Thirupathi experience was an unforgettable one and the darshan was very pleasing. It was very interesting to hear the greatness of Thirumalai while recollecting my memories of us going to Thirupathi. This was also a completely new story to me. It is also eye-opening that the Murthy that we see in Thirupathi today is the Lord himself. I am so glad that we went to India this summer and went to all these wonderful places to relate to the story easily. Here is the video below for Srinivasa Kalyanam. Enjoy!

Sri Adi Shankara Charithram

      Hey guys. This is the Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did on May 18, 2019. In this Satsangam, my mom talked about Sri Adi Shankara Charitham. She started off by talking about the philosophies of Advaitam and she also quoted how Mahaperiyava explained Advaitam in a beautiful manner. She also explained how Adi Shankara is the universal Guru (Jagadguru). She then talked about Adi Shankara's childhood and how he lived the first eight years of his life with his mom, Aryambal. Then, she explained in detail about how Adi Shankara gets Sanyasam at the age of eight. While speaking about Adi Shankara's Sanyasam, she also described about the importance of Guru Parampara. Adi Shankara traveled across India, spreading his words of Advaitic wisdom on his way. Afterwards, he entered the Sarvagna Peetam at Kanchipuram. I found this topic very interesting because Adi Shankara is the first Guru. The story of Adi Shankara and the miracles that occurred in people's lives during his time period is just astonishing. My favorite part of Adi Shankara's story was the debate between him and Mandala Mishra. Sri Mahaperiyava himself is the sole Avataram of Sri Adi Shankara himself. Here is the video below for Sri Adi Shankara Divya Charithram. Enjoy!

Sri Raghavendra Swamigal Divya Charithram

      Hey guys.This is the Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did on April 27, 2019. In this Satsangam, she talked about Sri Raghavendra Charithram. She started off by praising Sri Raghavendra's lineage and the many miraculous incidents that occurred to them. Sri Raghavendra Swamigal's avataram took place around 500 years ago and he hails from the Dwaita tradition, established by Madhwacharya. Sri Raghavendra Swamigal was the pontiff (head of the Mutt) of the Madhwa lineage. She talked about Sri Raghavendra Swamigal's ancestors and how they served high positions in the Vijayanagara Samrajya (kindgom) and were all well educated in the Shastras and also in playing the Veena instrument. Despite all this, they still lived their lives in poverty. But, their main motives was not to live a materialistic life, but to learn and live as per the teachings of Madhwacharya. She talked about how Sri Raghavendra Swamigal was a bright student who displayed great scholarship, but still remained very humble. She also continued talking about how he was a married person and how he came under the tutelage of Sudeendra Theertha in the pursuit of knowledge. Sudeendra Theertha, the then pontiff of the Madhwa Mutt, requested Sri Raghavendra Swamigal to become a Sanyasi (a Hindu religious mendicant), by separating from his wife and kids, and also to become his successor pontiff. Although Sri Raghavendra Swamigal was initially reluctant about the decision, a divine intervention made him accept his guru's wish. As the new pontiff, Sri Raghavendra Swamigal performed several miracles and became a great Mahaan. Many people were in search of Sri Raghavendra to receive his Anugraham (blessings). My mom talked about how Sri Raghavendra Swamigal was considered as an Avataram of Prahalada and how he urged the people to develop Bhakthi (devotion) and follow all traditional rituals. I liked this topic very much because it was very inspiring to hear how Sri Raghavendra Swamigal influenced many people to continue their long lasting Bhakthi towards God and the miracles he performed to the many people who worshiped him. I also found it interesting that Sri Raghavendra Swamigal's Jeeva Samadhi is still present in Mantralayam, India and how the people who experienced the Darshan of Sri Raghavendra Swamigal got good skills in speech and writing. We should all continue to follow our tradition as it will increase our Bhakthi and oneness towards God. Here is the video below for Sri Raghavendra Swamigal Divya Charithram. Enjoy!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=siAF8LEYkVw&t=2s

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Sri Vivekananda Charithram

      Hey guys. These are the two Satsangams that my mom did on March 2, 2019 and April 13, 2019. In these two Satsangams, my mom talked about Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Charithram and Sri Vivekananda Charithram.
      On March 2, my mom talked about Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. She talked about how many people during the British Raj detested idol worship. But, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa dedicated his life to idol worshiping and has even seen God face to face. She started off with a small story which was told by Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. That story itself shows how the complete surrender to God gives the Bhakthas (devotees) the strength and peace. She talked about the childhood of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and his Bhakthi Bhavam towards Goddess Kali at Dakshineshwar. Everyone of us will cry for some material wants and pray to the Lord, but on the other hand, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa cried for darshan of Kali in his teenage years. At last, he was able to get the darshan of Kali. Of the many gurus that Ramakrishna Paramahmsa had, my mom explained the significance about two of them: Bhairavi Brahmani and Thothapuri. Bhairavi Brahmani proved to the world that Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was indeed an Avataram of God. Thothapuri was an Advaitic Guru of Ramakrishna Paramahmsa. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa practically proved that with the help of Bhava Bhakthi, one can get the Darshan of their Ishta Deivam (God of choice). He himself proved this by practicing Islam and getting Darshan of Allah, practicing Christianity and getting Darshan of Jesus, getting Darshan of Rama, Krishna, Devi, etc. She also talked about how Ramakrishna Paramahamsa influenced many of his disciples to perform Bhava Bhakthi when praying to the Lord in order for them to attain ecstasy. I liked this topic because it was interesting to see how Ramakrishna Paramahamsa attained ecstasy through influence of several religious traditions using the sole concept of Bhava Bhakthi. I also found it fascinating that Ramakrishna Paramahamsa viewed his own wife, Sarada Devi, as a Goddess. I loved to hear about how Ramakrishna Paramahamsa found a Guru and a disciple in everyone. He is also the main influence on Swami Vivekananda, which I'll be talking about in the next paragraph.
      On April 13, my mom talked about Sri Vivekananda. While talking about Swami Vivekananda, she talked about how Swami Vivekananda directly poured the knowledge of Vedanta to the Western World. Vedanta contains philosophical material that is beyond the understanding of Vedas. Vedanta states the different types of relationships between God and the others and it require a high level of self realization to perceive it. Swami Vivekananda spread practical Vedanta where he viewed everyone as God and the most important aspect to attain ecstasy and closeness to God is to serve to humanity. Then, she talked about Swami Vivekananda's childhood. She talked about how he had a very keen memory and was very exceptionally scholarly at a very young age. Swami Vivekananda was inquisitive on the existence of God and whether one has seen God or not. This was when Swami Vivekananda decided to meet Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. The meeting of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Sri Vivekananda was very interesting. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa took Swami Vivekananda as a special disciple. Their relationship was very unique. Swami Vivekananda took the message of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa to the whole world. She then told how Swami Vivekananda spoke at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago about our religion on September 11, 1893. She then talked about how the whole world was amazed by his famous speech and how he traveled throughout the world as a monk while teaching them about interfaith awareness and the values of Hindu philosophies. I liked this topic very much because I was astonished at how Swami Vivekananda was a very bright student of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and how he was able to grasp ideas very quickly and retell it to the world. I admire how he was such a great influence with a bold character and also one of the major forces in the Hindu reform movements in the world. I appreciate his bravery to preach his teachings to the Western world and also view him as great role model because of his powerful words and his persistent heart. I also found it extremely staggering how Swami Vivekananda was begging in the streets the day before his speech and during his speech, people were showering applause and  bowed down to him as a Godly figure.
      Here are the videos below for Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Charithram and Sri Vivekananda Charithram. Enjoy!

Sri Bhagavan Ramana Maharishi Divya Charithram

      Hey guys. This is the Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did on February 2, 2019. In this Satsangam, my mom talked about Ramana Maharishi's Charithram. She talked about how a young boy of age 16 suddenly got the realization of his self with the help of Lord Arunachala and became spiritually empowered. She first talked about how self realization and Advaitam (soul and God are one) could lead us to become one with God, if practiced correctly. She also took the examples of Buddha's life and his pathway to realization. Then, she talked about Ramana Maharishi's childhood and how he was a playful, happy-go-lucky boy. Afterwards, she talked about how he realized that his Athma (soul) was eternal at the age of 16. As a young boy, he went to Thiruvannamalai and the young Venkataraman became Ramama Bhagavan. He stayed there until he left his body. Afterwards, she talked about Kavya Kanda Ganapathi Munivar and Seshadri Swamigal. She also talked about many more incidents where Ramana Bhagavan remained as an undisturbed, realized soul. Even when his mother came to get him back, he was not responsive and remained in Samadhi. In the later half, his mother herself came to the abode of Sri Ramana Maharishi. Sri Ramana Maharishi gave Mukthi to his mother and built Mathrubutheshwar Temple for her. She also talked about how Westerners, like Paul Brunton and Arthur Osborne, who were directed by Sri Mahaperiyava himself, came to the abode of Ramama Maharishi, and got peace and realization of self. I liked this topic of Sri Ramana Maharishi because it gave me a deeper insight on Advaitam and I could relate to it easily as I started reading Deivathin Kural. This is also interesting because Ramana Maharishi was a saint, who lived no more than 100 years ago, proving to be an example of the holy benefits one can reap if they follow the structure of Hinduism. Here is the video below for Sri Bhagavan Ramana Maharishi Divya Charithram. Enjoy! 

Sri Mahaperiyava Divya Charithram

      Hey guys. This is the Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did on January 12, 2019. In this Satsangam, my mom talked about Mahaperiyava's glory, his avataram, and his Leelai (incidents).

      On the day of the Satsangam, my mom had a very severe sore throat. We all thought that we were going to cancel the Satsangam. But, with all Mahaperiyava's grace and wonder, she was able to do the Satsangam without even coughing once. 

      In the beginning, she talked about Mahaperiyava's glory. She said that the Guru is not only the teacher importing their knowledge to students, but the actual Guru is the one who imports Gnana (wisdom) to the students. Then, she talked about Mahaperiyava's avataram. She told that Mahaperiyava's parents were thousand times more respectful because they have sacrificed a 13 year old boy to the world as a Sanyasi. Next, she quoted some of the unbelievable incidents such as how a small boy asked for Moksha (liberation) to Mahaperiyava and how Mahaperiyava even directed Siddha Purushas to focus on self realization. We can see Mahaperiyava's grace and glory in this video itself.

      Here is the video below for Sri Mahaperiyava Divya Charithram. Enjoy!

Sri Sri Sri Mahaperiyava Aradhana Mahotsavam 2018

      Hey guys. The 25th Aradhana Mahotsavam of His Holiness Pujyashri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Mahaswamigal - the 68th Pontiff of Shri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam was celebrated at our residence on December 15, 2018. We celebrated this Aradhana as part of our monthly Satsangam. With the blessings of Sri Mahaperiyava, the celebration was done on a very grand scale. We commenced the Aradhana by performing Rudrabhishekam for the Padhuka of Sri Mahaperiyava. Lot of devotees attended the Rudhrabhishekam. It started with Mahaganapathi Pooja followed by the chanting of Rudhram and Chamakam by all the devotees. Then, the priest did Archanai followed by Aarthi and Thotakashtakam.
      Afterwards, we conducted Nadha Samarpanam, in which my friend, Sashwat Mahalingam, sang few songs. I accompanied him on Mridangam. It was a very blessed occasion to perform in front of Mahaperiyava on his Aradhana day.

• The concert started with the song Guruvarulal Thondriya Raagam composed by Neyveli Santhanagopalan in the Raagam Keervaana Panchamam. 
• Next, the song Vanajasana was sung in Shri Raagam. 
• Then, the song Meenakshi Me Mudham was sung in Purvikalyani Raagam, for which I played a small Thaniavarthanam that I composed. 
• The concert came to a close with the song Maitreem Bhajathe in Yamuna Kalyani Raagam composed by Sri Mahaperiyava himself. 

      The concert was stupendously performed with the blessings of Sri Mahaperiyava. The whole function was truly magnificent and all the devotees who attended felt very happy to participate in the Padhuka Pooja. Here are a few photos and the links to the video of the concert below. Enjoy!

     
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pCQE08pmJyTOBQs3YlzEn7COCOYTrj1r/view?usp=sharing

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lE5gEgbmmfy0asiETcHroGsrLq1MCBlW/view?usp=sharing

Sridhara Venkatesa Ayyaval & Marudhanallur Satguru Swamigal Charithram (நம்முடன் வாழ்ந்த மஹான்கள் - ஸ்ரீதர வேங்கடேச அய்யாவாள் & மருதாநல்லூர் ஸத்குரு சரிதம்)

      Hey guys. This is the most recent Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did. My mom started on the new topic of Sridhara Venkatesa Ayyaval & Marudhanallur Satguru Swamigal Charithram. They, including Sri Bhagavan Nama Bodhendral, are the trinities of Bhajan Sampradhayam.
      She first spoke about Ayyaval, who was a contemporary of Bodhendral Swamigal. He established the Nama Siddhantham, like Bodhendral. He wrote lot of Granthams (books) including Bhagavan Nama Bhooshanam. Ayyaval was a great scholar who came from Mysore and settled in Thiruvisainallur. Because of his Bhakthi (devotion), Ayyaval was closely attached to the Lord. She narrated many incidents that showed how Ayyaval was merited by his faithfulness. One such incident was when Lord Mahalingam himself came to Ayyaval's house to give Prasadam (food) to him. Ayyaval's most exemplary work was bringing the Ganges River, from North India, to his house well. Even today, we can see the Ganges River flowing in the well in the month of Karthikai (November-December) on an Ammavasya (full moon) day. Finally, he emerged with the Lord Mahalingam himself at Thiruvidaimarudhur.
      Afterwards, she spoke about Marudhanallur Sathguru Swamigal. He is the incarnation of Rama himself. Both Bodhendral and Ayyaval showed us the Nama Siddhantham's Mahimai, or the greatness of the chant of Rama's name. But, Sathguru Swamigal introduced the musical aspect of the recitation of the Namam. We call this way of expressing our worship Bhajana Sampradhayam. She narrated many incidents showing how Sathguru Swamigal achieved three of his main missions. One of these missions was to commence Bhajana Sampradhayam. Another mission was for him to find where Bodhendraal's Adhishtanam (place where Bodhendraal attained Siddhi) is and to spread the knowledge of this existence to the people. With the help of Tanjore Raja, he diverted the path of the river Kaveri, raised the platform, and built Bodhendraal Swamigal's Adhishtanam. His third mission was to restore and bring back the Granthams of Bodhendraal and Ayyaval. Sathguru Swamigal founded the Radhakrishna Matam where he found where the Granthams were kept and stored the lost treasures of Bodhendraal and Ayyaval. Finally, he emerged with Jagathrakshaka Perumal at Aadhudhurai.
      She then talked about the significance of this trinity and how they impacted the culture of Bhajana Sampradhaya. She also talked about the importance of attending these Bhajans and chanting or singing the name of the Lord to display our affection towards them. Whenever we attend Bhajans, we should think about this trinity and their history as they are the producers of this art form and we should bow our heads to these gurus.
      This story was particularly interesting for me because these Mahaans (greats) lived only a few centuries back and they have such a great influence on our tradition. Also, they have defined a way for us to be close with God and their works exhibit truths which we should follow in order to attain God. Here is the video below for Sridhara Venkatesa Ayyaval & Marudhanallur Satguru Swamigal Charithram (நம்முடன் வாழ்ந்த மஹான்கள் -  ஸ்ரீதர வேங்கடேச அய்யாவாள் & மருதாநல்லூர் ஸத்குரு சரிதம்). Enjoy!

   

Sri Bhagavan Nama Bodhendraal Charitham (நம்முடன் வாழ்ந்த மஹான்கள் - பகவந் நாம போதேந்திராள் சரிதம்)

      Hey guys. This is the most recent Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did. My mom started on the new topic of Sri Bhagavan Nama Bodhendraal Charithram. For the last whole year, we were listening to Ramayanam, but this topic started with the greatness of Rama Namam (the word "Rama"). For the last whole year, we were listening to Rama's glory, but now she talked about Rama Namam's glory. This Rama Namam's glory was established by Bodhendraal. Sri Bhagavan Nama Bodhendraal is the 60th Peetathipathi (pontiff) of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. She first talked about how the Rama Namam's glory happened in the Ramayana itself and how the Kali Yugam has brought so many saints to this world to show the glory of Rama Namam. She then talked about Bodhendraal's life story. In the Charithram of Bodhendraal, we can see how Bodhendraal proved that Rama Namam transformed a lady, who was held captive by Muslims, back to a Hindu lady by taking a holy dip in a pond. Another evidence she talked about is that Bodhendraal made a dumb boy speak Rama Namam with the help of Rama Namam. She also talked about how these miracles only happened in the 17th century. Bodhendraal attained Samadhi at Govindapuram, which is near Kumbakonam. Even now, one can take a trip to Govindapuram to take a darshan of Sri Bodhendraal Swamigal and can hear Rama Namam from his Samadhi. All the people are encouraged to write Rama Namam as much as possible. So, towards the end of the Satsangam, we handed out a sheet of paper and everyone in attendance, including myself, wrote Rama Namam. This story was particularly interesting for me because I found it fascinating how just chanting the name of Rama could provide you with eternal happiness. Here is the video below for Sri Bhagavan Nama Bodhendraal Charitham (நம்முடன் வாழ்ந்த மஹான்கள் - பகவந் நாம போதேந்திராள் சரிதம்). Enjoy!

Sri Rama Pattabhishekam

      Hey guys. This is the most recent Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did. My mom continued on the topic of Sri Rama Charitham and Sri Rama Pattabhishekam in a grand fashion.
      In this Satsangam, Sita was united with Rama. Hanuman plays a vital role in informing about Rama's arrival to Ayodhya to Bharatha. Finally, with the presence of many Devas and sages, Sage Vashishta does Sri Rama Pattabhisekam in an auspicious manner.
      After the discourse on Sri Rama Pattabhishekam, we heard the audio recording of the Pattabhisheka Sargam in Valmiki Ramayanam, bhajans and keerthanams were sung by the audience, we did Rama ashtothram, and finally we did Mangala Aarthi. Hearing this Rama Pattabhishekam will give us all kinds of peace and prosperity and Sri Rama will bless us with whatever wishes we have.
      Here is the video below for Sri Rama Charitham - Part 13 (Sri Rama Pattabhishekam). Enjoy!

Sri Rama Charithram Part 12

      Hey guys. This is the most recent Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did. My mom continued on the topic of Sri Rama Charithram. In this Satsangam, my mom continued on the topic of Yuddha Kandam (War between Rama and Ravana). She first talked about Hanuman bringing Sanjeevi Parvatham (mountain) and giving life to everybody including Rama. She described Hanuman as a Praana Shakthi. Then, she showed how Vibhishana fully displayed Bhagavata Dharmam and showed how Kumbakarnan (Ravana's brother) lacks Bhagavata Dharmam. She described how the war took place between Indrajit and Lakshmana, Kumbakarnan and Rama, and at last between Ravana and Shri Rama. Rama fulfilled the promise given to Devas by killing Ravana and his men. She also explained the Darshan of Vishnu to Mandodhari (Wife of Ravana). At last, the Satsangam ended with Vibhishana's Pattabhishekam. Here is the video below for Sri Rama Charithram Part 12. Enjoy!

Sri Rama Charithram Part 11

      Hey guys. This is the most recent Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did. My mom continued on the topic of Sri Rama Charithram. In this Satsangam, my mom continued on the topic of Yuddha Kandam (War Between Rama and Ravana). She first talked about the Rama Sethu Bridge between India and Sri Lanka. The Rama Sethu Bridge was built  in order for crossing the ocean. Rama engineered the building of this bridge with the help of Vanaras (monkeys). So, with the help of Rama's grace, they built Sethubandhanam (Rama Sethu Bridge). Even after arriving in Sri Lanka, Rama wishes peace between Ravana and him. He sends Angathan (Vali's son) for a peace talk between them. But, Ravana didn't want to give Sita to Rama. So, the war begins. Initially in the war, Indrajith (Ravana's son) was successful in throwing the Nagastram, which fainted everyone in Rama's side including Rama. So, Indrajith thought that he was succesful in killing those people. But, with the sudden appearance of Garuda from Vaikunda, everybody was revived as if they've just woke up from a deep sleep. The next day, Ravana himself came to war. But this time, he was totally defeated and he even lost his crown. Rama showed mercy and he told Ravana to come back again tomorrow. At this time, Ravana felt very ashamed of his state. Here is the video below for Sri Rama Charithram Part 11. Enjoy!

Deivathin Kural Reading Circle

      Hey guys. Recently, our family started a group called Deivathin Kural Reading Circle. The point of this group is for people to read one topic of Deivathin Kural each week. Deivathin Kural is a compilation of talks given by Sri Mahaperiyava himself. It's available in book form as well as pdf form. We have created a Google Sheet where people could record the weekly goal of one chapter like a reading log. Personally, I think this will benefit further generations as the talks given by Sri Mahaperiyava displays significance about Hindu Dharma and also relates to current philosophical aspects. It is also interesting to acquire more knowledge about something that we don't know about our Hindu philosophies. Coming from one of the greatest minds, the Deivathin Kural is a very important book filled with innuendos that relate to everyday spiritual life and it showcases a pathway to attain success in life. It is definitely a must read book, and that is why we have created this reading circle, for people to gain knowledge of the profound philosophies spoken in a simple enough language for us to understand and to gain a better understanding of our Hindu culture and tradition. We have only started this reading circle a couple of weeks back. If anyone is interested in joining, please let us know so we could add your name in the reading circle. You could give your email address through this blog or the comment section below so that we could give you the access to the Google Sheet. If you have any questions or suggestions leave it in the comment section below. Thank you for the support. Tune in for more content.

Sri Rama Charithram Part 10

      Hey guys. This is the most recent Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did. My mom continued on the topic of Sri Rama Charithram. In this Satsangam, my mom started on the topic of Vibhishana Charanagathi (total surrender to the Almighty). She first explained about the qualities of Charanagathi as well as the qualities of the person who surrenders. We have seen how Devas surrendered in Bala Khandam, Bharatha surrender in Ayodhya Khandam, and all the sages surrender in Aranya Khandam, etc. But what makes Vibhishana Charanagathi different from the rest is that Vibhishana had all the qualities of Charanagathi. In this Satsangam, she talked about how Vibhishana tries to give good advices to his brother, Ravana, to give back Sita to Rama. Ravana refuses to listen to Vibhishana and he kicked Vibhishana out of his kingdom. Vibhishana took this as a boon and totally surrendered to Rama. Here is the video below for Sri Rama Charithram Part 10. Enjoy!

Sri Rama Charithram Part 9

      Hey guys. This is the most recent Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did. My mom continued on the topic of Sri Rama Charithram. In this Satsangam, my mom started on the topic of Sundara Kandam, the most sacred portion of the Ramayana. This whole Kandam is so beautifully explained and is filled with pivotal events. In this Kandam, Hanuman bravely crosses over the ocean, vanquishes any obstacle or Asura that he encounters during his journey, and reaches Sri Lanka. There, he sees Sita and is filled with joy. Initially, Hanuman talks about Rama and his relation with him. Then, Hanuman gives Rama's ring to Sita to declare him as a devotee and a messenger of Rama. The ring carries the name Rama. Hanuman eagerly wanted to see Ravana and what he was about. So, he devises a plan of making a mess in Ashokavanam (Ravana's private place) and being taken to Ravana's court. So, he goes as per the plan and is taken away by Indrajit (Ravana's son). At Ravana's court, Hanuman warns him about the consequences if Rama comes to Sri Lanka. He also warns that Sita is not an ordinary lady as well, as she is capable of destroying Ravana herself.  Ravana doesn't believe Hanuman and he orders his ministers to kill Hanuman. Vibhishana, Ravana's younger brother, tells that Hanuman is just a messenger and he should be spared. Ravana disagrees with Vibhishana and orders his men to set fire to Hanuman's tail. Hanuman, without fear or pain, flies around Sri Lanka with his tail on fire and destroys every place in Sri Lanka, except Sita's spot, by setting fire to it. Hanuman, then victoriously flies back to Kishkinda, with Sita's Chudamani in hand. As he arrives, he gleefully declares that he has seen Sita. Those very words makes everyone in Kishkinda happy. The Sundara Kandam ends with Hanuman successfully handing over Sita's Chudamani to Rama. Overall, the Sundara Kandam serves as an important part of the Ramayana because Hanuman's impeccable talents are displayed and magnified in this very Kandam. Hanuman also is shown as a great devotee of Rama. If Ramayana is considered as a Veda, then Sundara Kandam is considered as a Upanishad. The Sundara Kandam, as a whole, shows that a great Guru can unite us all with the Lord easily. As a procedure, the Sundara Kandam will end with Rama's Pattabhishekam (coronation) even though that Sargam (chapter) occurs in the next Kandam i.e Yuddha Kandam. Listening and reading of Sundara Kandam relieves one of many ailments or problems and protects one from any mishap. Here is the video below for Sri Rama Charithram Part 9. Enjoy!

Sri Rama Charithram Part 8

      Hey guys. This is the most recent Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did. My mom continued on the topic of Sri Rama Charithram. In this Satsangam, my mom continued and ended the topic of Kishkindha Kandam. She talked about how Sugriva totally accepted the friendship of Rama and how he got bravery to fight his evil brother Vali, who stole Sugriva's wife, Ruma. Then Vali Vadham (killing/death of Vali) occurs and Rama gives a good justification as to why Vali Vadham has occurred. Vali satisfyingly lets his life go on Rama's own hands and Sugriva is crowned king of Kishkindha. Thus, the search for Sita starts with the help of Sampathi (Jatayu's brother), Jambhavan (an old aged bear), Hanuman, Nalan, Neelan, etc. Here is the video below for Sri Rama Charithram Part 8. Enjoy!

Sri Rama Charithram Part 7 and Experiences with Mahaperiyava by my mom

      Hey guys. This is the most recent Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did. My mom continued on the topic of Sri Rama Charithram. This Satsangam started off with Shraddhanjali to Pudu Periyava. In this Satsangam, my mom started on the topic of Kishkindha Kandam. She talked about Rama's friendship with Sugriva and she talked about how essential Satsangam is in life. She elaborated on how one can get elevated in a very high position even near to God if they have Satsangam (good acquaintance). This is how Sugriva got elevated into a kingly stature and became Rama's friend from Hanuman's acquaintance. On the other hand, Ravana, without having any Satsangam, lost everything that he had.
      In the month of January, my mom was in India. At the time, Mahaperiyava's devotees asked her to share her experiences with Mahaperiyava. With Mahaperiyava's grace and permission, she has shared her experiences in front of a small group. The video in which she shared her experiences and encounters with Mahaperiyava will be given below.
      The first video is my mom sharing her Experiences with Mahaperiyava and the second video is the video for Sri Rama Charithram Part 7. Enjoy!

Sri Rama Charithram Part 6 in the Presence of Sri Mahaperiyava's Paadhukai

      Hey guys. This is the most recent Mahaperiyava Satsangam that my mom did. My mom continued on the topic of Sri Rama Chairthram. In this Satsangam, my mom continued and finished the topic of Aranya Kandam, meaning entering in to the dense forest. She talked about Jatayu Moksham and Sabari Moksham, which happens to be one of my favorite parts of the Ramayana. She introduced a little bit of the story of Hanuman. In this Satsangam, everyone was really excited and anxious to hear the introduction of Hanuman. Here, Rama suffered deeply as Sita, his beloved wife, was abducted by Ravanan. It was really fascinating to hear the three phases of Rama as my mom said about how Rama acted as a Rishi (sage or saint), human, and Eeshwara (God). Here we can see Rama as a one whole almighty that is Parabrahma.
      We also happened to be blessed by Sri Mahaperiyava himself, as one of our friends brought Mahaperiyava's Paadhukai (holy feet) to our Satsangam all the way from Seattle, Washington. We never expected we would be blessed in this way by Mahaperiyava himself as this is the third successful year of our Sri Mahaperiyava Satsangam. Even all the devotees who came for the Satsangam were overwhelmed with joy and tears. My mom told me that Mahaperiyava is the divine force that is driving this Satsangam and she used to say that Mahaperiyava himself is telling all of the stories and not her. I believed in as everyone would contribute to the Satsangam by listening in on my mom's words and fulfilling the purpose of this Satsangam, which is to spread acknowledgement of our Hindu stories, cultures, traditions, values, meaning, and many more. This also came to surprise me that my mom never prepares for any of these Satsangams as well. This Satsangam was very divine as people eagerly awaited for Mahaperiyava's Paadhukai in the beginning and the next story of Hanuman in the end.
      This Satsangam was our third anniversary as I already stated before and we were blessed to do this event in the presence of Sri Mahaperiyava himself. The first video below is the arriving of Mahaperiyava's Paadhukai and the chanting of the slokas. The second video below is the video for Sri Rama Charithram Part 6. Happy Holidays! Enjoy!