Stars and Astronomy in the Vedic Vision Introduction: In Vedic times, the heavens were not merely studied for practical reasons of navigation or calendrical keeping; they were revered as a living presence, an eternal expression of the divine. The ṛṣis looked to the night sky not with curiosity alone but with awe, reverence, and devotion. …
Welcome to another edition of “Friday’s Fountain of Wisdom,” where we delve into timeless spiritual texts to find inspiration and guidance for our modern lives. This week, we are exceptionally delighted to explore the profound beauty and philosophical depth of Sri Stuti, a magnificent hymn composed by the illustrious philosopher-saint, Vedanta Desika. Vedanta Desika was …
Introduction: Veda and Dharma — The Eternal Foundations In the vast spiritual landscape of Bharat, the Vedas stand as the primal sound of cosmic order. They are not merely scriptures but the very breath of Sanatana Dharma—timeless, authorless, and all-encompassing. Dharma, often translated as righteousness or duty, is the principle that sustains the universe, society, …
In our journey to discover purpose and peace, ancient wisdom often illuminates the most profound truths. Last week, we explored the Mudgala Purana as a guide to understanding Ganesha as the Supreme Brahman, the ultimate reality that helps us transcend inner obstacles. This week, we delve into the first and arguably most foundational of Ganesha’s …
Introduction The arrival of Vibhīṣhaṇa at Rāma’s camp was no small event. Here stood the brother of mighty Rāvaṇa, hovering in the sky, declaring his intent to abandon Laṅkā and seek refuge with Rāma. Such a moment could not be taken lightly. For the vānaras, loyal to Rāma and vigilant against every stratagem of the …
Introduction In our last reflection on the first Anuvāka of the Śrī Rudram, we paused with verses 3 and 4. Those mantras reminded us that Rudra’s immense power can also be a source of shelter and protection when approached with reverence. Continuing this journey, verses 6 and 7 take us deeper — portraying Rudra as …
September 7th, 2025, the skies revealed a breathtaking sight: the full moon transforming into a deep, blood-red orb during the eclipse. After a cloudy day, I was lucky to catch a few clear moments and capture this rare celestial spectacle with my mobile and mirrorless camera.. The eclipse began at 9:58 pm, and the moon …
This evening, September 7th, 2025, the skies gifted us with a radiant full moon just before the eclipse. Though the clouds kept playing hide and seek, there were a few magical moments when the sky cleared—just enough to catch a glimpse of the moon shining in all glory. Captured around 8:08 pm, just under two …
Among the countless deities revered in the Vedic tradition, Sūrya, the Sun, stands apart as the most visible and constant presence in our lives. The Vedas call him the jagad-eka-cakṣuḥ — the single eye of the universe. Without the Sun, there is no light, no warmth, and no life. All creation depends upon his energy; …
Ananta Padmanabha Vratam – A Sacred Observance Today marks the auspicious occasion of Ananta Padmanabha Vratam, a deeply revered vrata dedicated to Lord Vishnu in His infinite form as Ananta Padmanabha Swamy. Observed on the Chaturdashi (14th day) of the bright fortnight of Bhadrapada month, this vrata is performed by devotees seeking divine protection, prosperity, …
