Periyava-Times-Jayanthi Malar

PERIYAVA Times June 2018 125th Jayanthi Malar - Special Edition Volume 3, Issue #2 Special Edition 125th Jayanthi Malar





4 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  Deivathin Kural & Science Dr. B Ramaswamy Epigenetics a potential scientific connection to Sanatana Dharmic lifestyle Samastha mangalani santhu felt the tangible and intangible benefits accrued by this observance as shown evidently by the health, Loka samastha sukhino bhavantu creativity and inner peace of our forefathers. With today’s advances in scientific methods and analysis, Let there ever be auspiciousness especially in genetics, it has been possible to explore the impact of a generation’s lifestyle in transmitting Let all beings exist in peace some qualities to the next few generations. In the following sections we present the need and The unique essence of our Sanatana dharma lies in objective of the lifestyle prescribed by our shastras defining this central goal of happiness through its in Sri MahaPeriyava’s words from Deivathin Kural, Shruti, Smruthi and Purana not restricted in space or summarize recent relevant findings in epigenetics and time. The tone may range from motherly compassion, explore the potential link between them for future fatherly discipline and friendly advice but the goal studies. remains unified into this single theme. As always is the case with our dharma, vigorous and uncompromised In Sri MahaPeriyava’s words: practice, in name and form, precedes anything that is preached (“Swadhyaya pravachanecha”). This way “With more and more advances in Science, many of life, with an intent to inherit and bequeath the physical, mental and spiritual well-being, has given will realize the scientific basis behind our Shastras. rise to a set of Acharas or rules for various activities Though it seems like a happy trend, I am of the throughout our life. The Acharas associated with our opinion that our shastras cannot be restricted within dharma have been practiced by our ancestors with the purview of science or social ideology. Our strong belief in the words of our Seers. They have Shastras indeed are super-science from our Rishis

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 5 and will take precedence. We need of glucocorticoid receptors which to develop the humility to patiently regulate the brain’s stress circuit. wait to see or perceive them one day, This effect though can be traced to though we do not currently. There the epigenetic impact of the mother are forty Samskaras that have been on the pup in first week after birth, prescribed from birth to death by can be reversed by later influences our Shastras. The word Samskaram or experiences of the pup. Another means to ‘make something good’. experiment, almost a decade later, These forty Samskaras purify a by Dias and Ressler, has shown that Jeevatma to attain the Paramatma. few traumatic experiences such as The Samskaras begin with Garbhadanam, which is fear can be transmitted to at least two generations of right from the body and takes shape in a mother’s mice from a male parent. Adding another dimension womb. The physical body of ours has to form in the to this phenomenon is the gut microbiome – brain presence of Mantras. Garbhadanam, Pumsuvanam connection, a paradigm shift in neuroscience. With past studies showing a correlation between the and Seemantham are commonly misunderstood to microbiomes in our gut with conditions such as autism and depression, recent results help us understand how be Samskaras meant for the pregnant mother’s body. this happens. This is a first step towards determining They are in fact meant for the purification of life inside and understanding how our diet impacts our mental her. Since these are meant for a life in the making, wellness and in turn influence the epigenomes our ancestors have exhibited extreme responsibility inherited by our next generation. in following these Samskaras. During Annaprasnam, the father chants the mantras though the child is given Conclusion: the food to consume. Just like how feeding mothers consume all the nutrients for baby’s physical health, Our Shastras have advocated the necessity of a the inner purity or lack thereof the parents determine certain food, lifestyle and activities especially during the lofty or lowly characteristics of their child. A union and immediately after childbirth for both the parents. of couple with great virtues alone can give rise to a The core belief that past- and present-life styles can healthy fetus which will evolve into an individual of influence the growth and development of future great virtues. That is why Mantras are prescribed for generations is revolutionary in itself, and, is beginning this. Importantly, these Samskaras also prevent any to be understood scientifically. Though there isn’t accidentally bad qualities of the parents to be inherited a truth in this universe that has escaped from HIS by the children. The intellectual prowess experienced utterances, Science will continue its game of seeking by many today is due to their ancestors’ virtuous that hidden truth with its limited organs of senses. observances. These virtues lay a foundation for the next two to three generations but beyond that the The author would like to thank Dr.Ramanarayanan future generations must follow and sustain that effect. Krishnamurthy – Associate Professor of Chemistry Though our parents may have missed few Samskaras from The Scripps Research Institute, CAfor introducing which excluded us from various benefits, we must him to this topic and providing tremendous inputs. never give that disappointment to our children.” References Modern Science - Epigenetics: Deivathin kural – volume 2 Epigenetics, a revolutionary field of research, studies the various physical factors that result in Weaver et al (2004).Epigenetic programming by modification of our DNA and the transgenerational maternal behavior. Nature Neuroscience, 7, 847-854 impact of these changes. One of the early studies in McGill university in 2004 by Weaver et al. showed that Dias, B. G. & Ressler, K. J. Nature Neurosci. http:// pups that have been regularly groomed and nursed by dx.doi.org/10.1038/nn.3594 (2013). mother rats end up growing to become adult rats that deal with stress much better due to higher presence Kang, D.-W. et al. PLoS ONE 8, e68322 (2013) https://www.wnycstudios.org/story/251885-you- are-what-your-grandpa-eats/

6 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  Advaita & Science Subramaniam The world we see is an illusion -maya… As we go about our daily lives, we tend to assume words, without the observer, the observed does not that our perceptions — sights, sounds, textures, have an absolute position. tastes are an accurate portrayal of the real world. Sure, when we stop and think about it or when we find So why did I start this article with science? If any ourselves fooled by a perceptual illusion, we realize of this sounds familiar to you, this is what our Acharya with a jolt that what we perceive is never the world has written about in “Advaitam”. Our MahaPeriyava directly, but rather our brain’s best guess at what spoke extensively about this in Deivathin Kural3 that world is like - a kind of internal simulation of (volume 6). He says there isn’t a concept of jivatma an external reality. I’m not picking this from Hindu and paramatma and union, infact the only thing philosophy, but merely taking the words of Donald that exists by itself is Atman, or often referred to as D Hoffman1, a professor of cognitive science who “nirguna-brahman”. Using the support of an atman, has been studying this area for thirty plus years. He the world is like a movie that’s played, it is perceived says “the world presented to us by our perceptions is as reality (and not a movie), which we call maya. nothing like reality2. The maya-shakti allows formation of individual jivas and those jivas form distinct organs of function like Science still is challenged to figure out how three- eyes, mouth, ears, nose, skin and so on. Through a pound lump of gray matter obeying nothing more than the ordinary laws of physics can give rise to first-person conscious experience. Hence they call it the hard problem. The world of quantum physics is making strides but if you look at the conclusion from its forefathers, Neils Bohr and Werner Heisenberg, both concluded that the state of atom or its sub particles is directly tied to the “observer”. In other

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 7 and using this he prescribes the path of doing karma as a path of preparing for advaitic sadhana. He goes on to say that the idea here is to keep doing karma without thinking of karma-phala and attributing it as a prayer to god and accepting any result as prasadam. And the second part of it is to keep reciting vedas everyday. • He then goes on to explain in a simple manner “what is the essence of samsara” (samsare kim saram) and the answer is given as “to keep thinking of this again and again” (bahusho’pi vichintyamAnam idam eva”. The profound idea is that when you keep thinking about it again and again and again, you will realize there is no saram (purpose) and your mind will uplift you to think about Atman. • The third thing HE says is that to nurture the taste for Atman, once in a while get out of the household and go to a guru to get upadesa on mahavaakyas. If we perform the above, then one is certain to prepare oneself for self-realization (atma jnana). very difficult sadhana, one can dissipate the Vasanaas It is HIS grace that is showered every day upon (i.e. shed the jiva purusha) to remain as the Nirguna- us with HIS silent method of communication, HIS Brahman. However this journey is so very difficult extensive research and simplification of terse subjects that it takes extreme rigor and many continuous lives that we continue to hear every day and learn from for slow but sure progression. others experiences. May HIS grace always shower on to you and prepare you for your atma-sadhana. Adi Sankara Bhagavatpadal has written a text on References this called Sadhana-Chatushyam as part of Brahma Sutra Bhashya. Now as dense and heavy this text is, 1. https://www.quantamagazine.org/20160421- Sri MahaPeriyava beautifully came to our rescue by the-evolutionary-argument-against-reality/ distilling it down and said the following during his discourse in 1965 at Tondiarpet, Chennai. 2. h t t p : / / c o g s c i . u c i . e d u / ~ d d h o f f / PerceptualEvolution.pdf • He uses the example “who is dead while living” (ko katah) – and the reply is “one who avoids 3. http://www.kamakoti.org/tamil/dk6-74.htm doing the karma he is due” (kriya brashtaah) and http://www.kamakoti.org/tamil/dk-141. html 4. An article by V. Krishnamurthy dated 2006 called Advaita Saadhana which can be searched online using google.

8 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  Guru Bhakthi Dr. Srikanth Kamesh Iyer KEnaGtuhruavini The Story of My Guru Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Swamigal “Our gurunathar Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Swamigal was born to Sri Subramanya Sastri and Smt Mahalakshmi. Being a meritorious student in Tindivanam high school, he received various accolades including for his acting in a Shakespearean play. While Kalavai Swamigal, the 66th pontiff of our Peetam, visited that place, he asked the parents to give away their child Swaminathan to be the next Peethadhipathi. The parents requested for more time to make this decision. Meanwhile, Kalavai Swamigal attained siddhi appointing his kainkaryam as the successor who also followed his acharya by attaining siddhi within 7 days. Swaminathan reached kalavai along with his parents and received sanyasa deeksha, becoming the 69th peetadhipathi of Sri Adi Sankara Paramparagatha Moolamnaya Sarvajna Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Before beginning his first yathra, news arrived from Thiruvanaikoil that the Tatanka Prathishta of Sri Akhilandeshwari was being arranged by the temple trustees without informing the Sri Matham. The dispute was resolved by the british administration which re-established the right of Sri Matham to perform this ritual. After performing Tatanka rathishtai, HE stayed at Mahendramangalam, a remote hamlet at the banks of cauvery for his vedic education. After finishing his education, HE established Sankara Matam in Lalgudi and consecrated Panchamukheshwarar temple at Thiruvanaikoil. HE went to live a complete hundred years in this Bharata Desha striving towards sustaining our Dharma. When my Purvashrama father Sri Mahadeva Iyer was working in Villupuram railway loco shed, Sri MahaPeriyava visited that place and in the evening pravachanam mentioned that every

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 9 brahmin family should send at least one son for veda- iii) Visit Prayag and establish a monument to adhyayana. Right after this discourse, Sri Mahadeva reinstate the supremacy of vedas as shown by Iyer sought HIS blessings to enroll me in veda- Kumarila Bhatta adhyayana. Sri MahaPeriyava asked him to send me to Kanchipuram to learn from HIS Purvashrama iv) Establish a memorial at Rameswaram near the brother Sri Kunju sastrigal. My lessons began in front Sri Matam of our Chandramouleeswarar Sannidhi followed by 7 years in Thiruvidaimaruthur. We then moved to I worked towards carrying out HIS wishes after Thiruvanaikaval where I learnt Upanishads belonging carefully noting them down and simultaneously to all the four vedas. Sri MahaPeriyava then asked studied Kavyas, Tarka Shastra and Vedanta. Heeding to me join him as HIS successor to the Peetham at our request to perform HIS Shashtiabdhapoorthi with Govindapuram. At 19 years of age, Sri MahaPeriyava Kanakabhishekam, HE agreed with one condition: gave me Sanyasa Deeksha at the banks of Sarvatheertha establish a trust which will receive donations of land in Kanchipuram. After receiving the Brahmopadesha, from devotees at various places similar to Vinobha I reached the Sri Matham with HIM via lingapayyan Bhave’s Bhoodan movement. Sri Chandrasekharendra street and was blessed with rudraksham and spatikam. Saraswathi Shastiabdhapoorthi trust was formed to At the auspicious occasion of Rama Navami, Sri manage the lands received and the benefits were used MahaPeriyava performed abhishekam to Sri Rama to promote veda bhashya studies. After Vyasa pooja with his own hands and arranged for me to receive at Vishnu Kanchi and Navarathri at Madras where that abhishekam on me. After performing the vyasa He gave discourses everyday which have pooja at Orirukkai. There at the banks of Palar, HE been compiled as Deivathin Kural. Our told me four things : vijaya yathra continued to Vaanagram, Kalahasthi, Tirupathi, Srisailam i) Visit Kalady and establish a monument in where Sri Adi Sankara memory of our acharyal vigraham was consecrated along with Sri Padhukas of ii) Perform Badrinath and Kedarnath yathra Sri MahaPeriyava on the banks of the river

10 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  mantra “Sathamanam bhavati sadayuhpurushah”, HE lived a ripe hundred years and attained jeevasamadhi few days after his hundredth year at Kanchipuram. I wished to have HIS adhishtanam at the Sri Matham for all the devotees to receive HIS blessings here. We must all know his Jeeva charithram. True to the common epithet “Kanchi Mahaswamigal”, HE remained and will always remain here at Kanchipuram, blessing us all forever with HIS grace ”. - Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Swamigal Source: Periyava Puranam YouTube Channel and Sankara TV Epilogue: Pudhu Periyava is one of the greatest examples of the what guru bhakti truly means. He often stressed where regularly performed his snana. After visiting HE remained and will various places in Andhra Pradesh, we adorned him always remain here at with a golden crown for HIS 70th jayanthi. We finally Kanchipuram, blessing reached Kanchipuram completing a yathra along with us all forever with HIS HIM that began in 1954 went on till 1970 with very memorable experiences. I continued to visit various grace ”. kshetras in North of India with HIS blessings. Our Periyava grew up at times of great adversities where - Sri Jayendra Saraswathi there was a group that denied our Sri Matam and its Swamigal rich history. But times changed when I was welcomed with great festivities at Varanasi. on the need for unflinching devotion towards the guru, reminding people that Guru is greater than God. In 1982, Sri BalaPeriyava was appointed as the We have often seen videos of Sri Jayendra Periyava successor of this peetham. I visited Sri MahaPeriyava where He is seen circumambulating MahaPeriyava’s at Kurnool after this and expressed my desire to go adhistanam in the early morning. This to me is one away on yathras. HE refused and said “ I am old and more way in which Sri Pudhu Periyava was silently He (Sri BalaPeriyava) is very young. What will we reminding us that just like the earth revolves around do?”. I replied “ Then you have to come with us to the sun, may we too keep the Guru as the central focal Kanchipuram and remain there”. HE agreed and came point of our lives. Incidentally, in Totakasthtakam, to Kanchipuram, performing Kumbabhishekam at Totakacharya uses the epithet “ahimam” Jalakanteshwara temple in Vellore on the way. There (Himamshu=moon, Ahimamshu=Sun) to describe his after HE remained in Kanchipuram until HIS samadhi. Guru, Adi Sankara Bhagavatpadhal. With HIS blessings various social activities such as Janakalyan were started and various educational Pudhu Periyava was born in a village name and medical institutions were built and are going to Irulneeki, which means remover of darkness in Tamil. be built to serve the needy. Symbolizing the vedic May the darkness of agyana be removed from our minds by the grace of the guru.

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 11

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 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 13 SRI GANESA SARMA Guru Bhakthi Periyava Upasana Moorthy Today, our JagadGuru Sri Sri MahaPeriyava blessed this universe in physical MahaPeriyava is celebrated form. Sri MahaPeriyava once passingly referred to world over. The moment him as 64th Nayanmar. Though this reveals the level Anusha nakshatra is mentioned, of bhakthi and involvement Sri Pradosham Mama everyone is reminded of Sri exhibited, there lies a sookshmam. If Sri Pradosham MahaPeriyava. Similarly, many Mama is a nayanmar according to HIM, who is the temple structures of various only upasana murthy this nayanmar surrendered scales ,Sannidhis within existing himself to? Pratyaksha Parameshvara himself. By temples or HIS Vigrahams calling him a nayanmar, Sri Mahaperiyava indirectly in temples or Padashalas are reveals this eternal truth to all of us through Shri burgeoning world over. At earlier times, many sought blessings from Sri MahaPeriyava Pradosham Mama. as a family acharya in addition to their own ishta devatas like Pazhani murugan or Tirupathi Balaji. As HIS Avatara Rahasyam or Ishwaratvam was revealed to the devotees, HE became an inseparable part of everybody’s lives . They wanted HIS blessings to be the center of every single aspect of their life. At this stage when everyone experienced HIM as an avatara purusha, a Gnani or a Thuravi, a devotee extended the boundaries of this bliss in experiencing HIM as an Upasana Murthy. It this incredible Bhakthi that has led to many of us around the world, worshipping HIM as an Aradhya Devatha. This devotee, none other than Sri Pradosham Venkatramayyar or Pradosham mama, received this anugraham from Sri MahaPeriyava. Fascinatingly, Sri Pradosham mama realized this while

14 “ Our sincere prayers at the lotus feet of Sri MahaPeriyava for the auspicious Maha Kumbhabhishekam of Periyava Jayanthi Malar  Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam New Jersey, USA” - Trustees , Sri Sankara Bhakta Jana Sabha, Thenambakkam.

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 15 Periyava and Music Bhargavi Kamakshivalli Dulcet easily attained through divine Sangeetam tones of and associated Gnana of Raga and Thala. devotion Ambal showers Her innate compassion on Sangeeta Upasakas and unifies their The river and Atma with the Paramatma“ . Among the ocean: the many composers of Devi kritis, Syama A connoisseur and revered Sastri stood out for his undivided devotion and critic of music, Sri MahaPeriyava irrefutable belief in Ambal. Though musically truly believed musical experiences, inclined from childhood, Syama Sastri was not a unlike any other art form, had the ability to draw in trained musician like his contemporaries. He was musicians and the listeners to experience the divine a Srividya Upasakar ordained to perform the daily bliss of Ambal. In HIS words, “The same supreme puja to the Bangaru Kamakshi idol (that his ancestors divine bliss attained through the arduous practices brought from Kanchi to Thanjavur). His innate of Vedadhyayana,Yoga, Dhyana and Pooja can be musical talent coupled with his devotion for Ambal gave rise to extempore musical compositions, that were conceptualized when Syama Sastri was deep in his prayers, after surrendering himself to Ambal. These compositions were filled with bhava and rasa while elaborating his musical prowess in the choice of melodic and rhythmic patterns he made. The river and ocean metaphor used by Paramacharya in Deivathin Kural, best describes the relationship Syama Sastri shared with Ambal. Much like the river, Syama Sastri used his music to constantly reach Ambal, and like the ocean drawing the river into its estuary, Ambal drew Syama Sastri in with Her grace and eminence, thereby making his music stronger and richer. Syama Sastri architected the composition of swarajathis for musical rendition with ratnatraiyam. Swarajathis were historically associated with the dance form and Syama Sastri composed its musical variant by eliminating jati passages. The ratnatraiyam consists of three swarajathis; Rave himagirikumari in Todi, Kamakshi anudinamu in Bhairavi and Kamakshi ni padayugame in Yadukula Khamboji. While all three swarajathis have the resounding voice (much like his other kritis) of a child seeking his mother’s attention (as defined by Kausalya Rama) the commonalities end there. The Bhairavi and Yadukula Khamboji swarajathis use the arohana sthayi padhathi by emphasizing each ascending note with every charanam. The Todi swarajathi, on the other hand,

16 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  meanders in a stately gait within the Shakthi of Ambal that She uses to mandhara sthayi or the lower octave shower kindness, remove anxieties and is ornamented with intricate and grant Moksha, is what makes Her gamakas in a vilamba kala that paints Shyama Krishna Sahodari, thereby a picture of Kanchi Kamakshi as seen emphasizing Syama Sastri’s prayers by Syama Sastri himself. to protect and grant his boons. Unified at the lotus feet of Sri MahaPeriyava explains that the reward for taking birth is for us Ambal: to offer our love and meditate on the lotus feet of Ambal to get Her grace. In Rave himagiri kumari, the first Only with grace and benevolence swarajathi of ratnathraiyam, Syama from Ambal will we get the energy Sastri pays obeisance to Kamakshi and intellect to reach the stage and urges Her to relieve him of the of enlightenment and fulfilment. miseries of this world. In the pallavi He says if we hold on to the feet Syama Sastri employs his standard that were worshiped by Iswara, Vishnu, Indras and epithet and requests Kanchi Kamakshi, the daughter Adi Shankara and keep praying; we will dissolve of Himagiri and bestower of boons, to listen to his into Ambal. Syama Sastri who had lost himself to appeal and grant auspiciousness. In the charanams Kamakshi echoes the same sentiment as Mooka and he alludes to specific stories that elaborate the glory Adi Sankara and finishes the swarajathi by saying and grace of Kamakshi, some of these stories resonate Kanchi Kamakshi Nee Padame Dhikku, with Sri MahaPeriyava’s anecdotes from Deivathin Kural. Oh Kamakshi of Kanchi, I take refuge in your feet. In kama palini sada, Syama Sastri requests Ambal, Swarajathi Lyrics the protector of Manmatha, to protect him as well. Sri MahaPeriyava quotes two instances wherein Ambal Pallavi: protects Manmatha, first when Manmatha gets reduced to ashes after shooting arrows at Parameshwara, it is Rave Himagiri Kumari Kanchi Kamakshi Varadaa Ambal who wins over Ishwara’s heart with humility and encourages Ishwara to give Manmatha his form Manavi vinavamma Shubhamimmaa Maayamma back. Secondly, when Manmatha requested Ambal to establish his victory over Ishwara, Ambal made Charanam: Kanchipuram a Sivajit Kshetram, a city where, outside the Kamakshi Amman temple, there are no 1. Natajana Paripaalini Vanuchu Nammitini Ambal sannidhis in Siva temples. Sadaa Brova Like in most of his compositions, Syama sastri uses 2. Madamatta Mahishadaanava mardhani his colophon Syamakrishnasodari in this kriti as well. Vetadirchave Duramuganu A clever choice of words that works as Syama Sastri’s mudra and describes Kamakshi as the sister of the dark 3. Kaamapaalini Neevee Gatiyani Koriti skinned Lord. Sri MahaPeriyava elucidates that black Koniyaaditi Veediti symbolizes Thamo Guna (the mode of ignorance) and that Vishnu and Parvathi, who are siblings and Nila 4. Kaamithartha Phaladaayakiyaneti Birudu Megha Shyamala (the color of dark blue clouds), are Mahilo Neeke Tagu black to represent their state of protection and Maya. To emphasize this, HE notes that the Durga sannidhi 5. Kamalamukhi Daragala Ghananilakacha in temple stands alone in north with Her carrying Bharaa Mruga vilochana Maniradana conch and disc like Her brother Vishnu. The Samhara gajagamana madiloo Ninnu Sada Dalachu Koni Nee Dhyanamee talli 6. Syamakrishnanutaa Vinu Naachintanu Veeveega Deercchi Abhayamiyyave Kalyani Kanchi Kaamakshi Nee Paadamee Dikku.

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 17

18 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  Periyava & Music KR Athmanathan GuruVara Dheejo The Amalgam of Melody And Devotion The song that soaks me in divinity everytime I hear. compose it in Ragam Madhuvanthi. When I showed I do not remember exactly what was the spark that this song to Sri Veezhinathan who was in Kalki, he led me to write this song. I cannot attribute anything suggested to change “aasha mannu se” to “manshaa other than Sri MahaPeriyava’s Anugraham. Listening mannu se”. to it in MS Amma’s voice is a perfect amalgam of the melody and devotion. In 1980s, when I, along with Sri Sadasivam Mama and Smt MS Amma had darshan of Sri Periyava, HE Guruvara dheejo charan tumhare was in Vishranti. HE was lying down in an easy chair Sadguru dheejo charan tumhare and was clad with kaavi vasthram. While MS Amma Kanchi Nagari Kama Peeta Vaasi was getting ready to sing the song, it appeared as if Tum he hamaare sab kuch Swami Periyava was asleep. As soon as she started singing, Man mandir me baso hamaare we were able to see Periyava putting Thaalam with bandhi bane ham sab tumhaare HIS kaal kattaveral (big toe) thereby accepting & dhooru karo tum manshaa mannu se blessing our Samarpanam. paar karo isu bhavasaagar se Even today when I recollect those nostalgic I could only visualize Sri Periyava’s Paadham as moments, I could clearly see the divinity in a tender (Mridhulam) as Ambal thereby inspiring me to mellifluous background.

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 19 Periyava & Music Bharath MAITHREEM BHAJATA A universal appeal from the almighty 1965 could be considered one of the most tumultuous years for the state of India. Recovering slowly and steadily from the aftermath of Sino-Indian war of 1962, India’s integrity was again challenged in its western border by its enemies. A domino of multiple skirmishes resulted in a full blown war with the largest engagement of armored vehicles since World War II until Tashkent declaration. With Sri MahaPeriyava’s abundant blessings, India succeeded in thwarting its enemies and retaining the land we all remember in our everyday prayer: “Namasthe Sharadha Devi Kashmira pura vaasini”. The same mother who destroys her enemies in battles as Shri Durga also breathes life and peace into this world as Kamakshi of Kanchi. It is in this context, we must see “Maithreem Bhajata” penned by Sri MahaPeriyava to be presented by Smt. M.S Subbulakshmi at the UN general assembly on October 23, 1966. A point to note here is that the concert was originally scheduled for International co-operation day in 1965 and postponed due to war conditions. The author firmly believes that “Maithreem Bhajata” was an appeal to the world nations to stick to a moral code of conduct and at the same time, an advice to the enemies to not meddle with our Dharma Bhoomi for their own good. The above historical context explains the reason for the first few lines of the poem, especially यदु ्धं त्यजत स्पध्ार ं त्यजत (Renounce war and renounce competition) and त्यजत परषे ु अक्रममाक्रमणम् (Avoid encroaching into others’ belongings). The next two lines in the poem reveal the essence of Sri MahaPeriyava’s approach - neutrality without any core compromise. Here is a pontiff of

20 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  Shreyo Bhooyaath Sakala Janaanaam Sri MahaPeriyava’s the choice only further motivates us towards this duty. approach neutrality The next line again showcases a unique brilliance of someone who has the deepest understanding of the without any core audience: compromise. दाम्यत दत्त दयध्वं जनताः Oh people, practice restraint, a hindu religious organization addressing the world show compassion and be philantropic leaders of the general assembly comprising of various religions and sects. He does not use this opportunity These three qualities दाम्यत, दत्त and दयधव् ं are words to extoll the Gods of Hindu pantheon and campaign of advice by thunder to Devas, Manushyas and Asuras for a system that HE adheres by. He succinctly enlists respectively in Brihadaranyaka Upanishad. In the Kali two divine concepts that every civilized religion in Yuga where Manushyas exhibit a varying mix of Deva, the world will subscribe to: Manushya and Asura instincts, the Paramacharya combines all three advices to be followed by us all. In जननी पथृ ्वी कामदघु ास्ते - Mother earth fulfills all our addition, these three words were used by T.S.Elliot in needs and desires like Kamadhenu his English poem “The Wasteland” and many readers of classic poetry in the audience would have been जनको देवः सकलदयालःु - God, our father is the most already familiar with the idea conveyed. Followers compassionate of all of world political history will be amazed to learn that every historical event that has resulted in loss or There cannot be a more brilliant exposition of devastation can be mapped to the lack of one or more a common thread that connects us all regardless of of these three fundamental qualities. It is the author’s race, religion, belief or gender: Children of Earth, sincere prayer and meditation that one day “Maithreem Children of God or the Children of both according Bhajatha” and especially these three qualities will to our choosing. Whatever be the choice, the duties adorn the walls of the UN General assembly. In those and the code of conduct enlisted in the beginning will words, I am sure will the world nations see solace and hold true without any conflicts and meditating upon resolve conflicts effectively in future. श्रये ो भयू ात् सकलजनानाम।् - May everyone be happy and prosperous.

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22 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  Management lessons Abhilash Sridharan Paramacharya “A man who hasn’t prepared his children for his death, has failed as a father” CEO – Black Panther, the movie Lesson 8: Succession planning All CEOs have to leave their office someday. Conventional wisdom dictates that a successor should be picked and groomed well in advance to occupy the corner office, as the incumbent gives way for the new order. Sounds straightforward – isn’t it? Yet the history of global corporations is filled with stories of organizations ill-prepared for this transition. In 2015, global CEO turnover hit a 15 year high, driven by increasing pressures from activist investors. In fact, a study of the world’s 2,500 largest public

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 23 companies shows that companies that scramble to find lead the Sri Matam after HIM. As a visionary leader, replacements for departing CEOs forgo an average of Paramacharya chose a direct successor, HH Jayendra $1.8 billion in shareholder value. Saraswati (HHJS), who was not only different from HIM, but also had the right skills and mindset to lead Then why do successful CEOs struggle in their the institution during turbulent times ahead. final test of greatness (succession planning)? There are probably two main reasons: lack of preparation To quote journalist S Gurumurthy, ‘HH Jayendra and insecurity. Unwillingness to let go of the reins can Saraswati was very different from HIS immediate be an emotional and intellectually difficult process, predecessor. While Paramacharya was introverted for a leader who has been at the helm for long. As and immersed in contemplation with the Self, HHJS Jim Collins, writes in Good to Great, “Level 5 leaders was outgoing and involved in conversation with set up their successors for even greater success in the the world. If the former walked, the latter motored, next generation, whereas, egocentric Level 4 leaders even flew.’. The differences were also evident in the often set up their successors for failure.” However, courses chartered by Sri Matam under its two towering even Level 5 CEOs who proactively prepare for their leaders. Under Paramacharya’s leadership, the Sri succession will have to carefully avoid two other Matam was more inward looking and cemented its traps: first, choosing a successor who is exactly like role as the spiritual fountainhead of the Indian society. them while what the organization might need is an Building on that foundation, HH JS brought with exact opposite and second, picking leaders equipped HIM a torrent of energy, to transform the ritualistic to deal with the problems of tomorrow rather than Sri Matam into a socially vibrant center of knowledge being constrained by those of today. and activity. He expanded the influence of the Sri Matam by reaching out to untouched bastis, attracting A case-in-point is the succession story at the Tata newer devotees, embracing technology to connect Group in the early 90s. By early 1990s, JRD Tata, with next generation, and increasing the Sri Matam’s then chairman of the Tata Group, wanted to step direct service to people through movements like down after having led the group for over 50 years JanKalyan and building institutions such as schools and having overseen its expansion from a revenue and hospitals. of ~INR 62 Crores (1938) to ~INR 10000 Crores (1991). As a people developer par excellence, JRD Additionally, Paramacharya ensured that HIS had groomed a strong secondary line of leadership, successor was set up for success, by giving Him with many contenders ready to fill his big shoes. But enough space and support to run the institution the visionary JRD chose Ratan Tata, who had a very independently, while always being there for counsel different leadership style from that of his, to lead the and guidance. He always spoke very highly about HIS next generation of Tata executives. Though he had successor to other devotees and the SriMatam staff. big shoes to fill, Ratan Tata quickly made the role As He once told HH Vijayendra Saraswati, ‘What his own, took tough restructuring decisions early on HHJS has done for the Sri Matam, cannot be matched and successfully led the Tata group for another two by anyone else’ decades. To succeed a leader of Paramacharya’s stature To the devotees of Sri Matam, the above anecdote and accomplishment is not an easy task. An ordinary might immediately ring a bell. Yes, Paramacharya’s successor would have wilted from being constantly succession plan. To find an apt successor for compared with such an illustrious predecessor. The Paramacharya- a giant who shaped India’s spiritual fact that HHJS held HIS own and carved a distinct fabric for eight decades, is almost an impossible task. niche for Himself as a unique Acharya in HIS own However, Paramacharya meticulously planned his right, is a testimony both to His greatness and succession, picking two outstanding successors (HH to Paramacharya’s foresight in picking the right Jayendra Saraswati and HH Vijayendra Saraswati) to successor for the right times.

24 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 25 Dr. V ANANTHARAMAN Biography Sadguru Sri Sivan SAR Bharatha desha, an eternal punya bhoomi, has got The golden rules for eternal bliss emphasized by many Siddha Purushas at various points of time. Sri SAR are: \"Not hurting others feelings, Leading However we mortals seldom identify them as these a simple and honest family life, Not uttering lies\". Purushas abhorred pomp, show and fame. One among such great Siddha Purushas is Sadguru Sri Sivan Sri SAR was an “Ekaagra Siddhar”. Sri SAR had SAR. only rice measurable with 3 fingers. He completely abstained from taking water. Sri SAR avoided all Hailing from the glorious lineage of Govinda worldly facilities and sanctified the period He lived Deekshithar, Sri SAR was the poorvasrama younger with us. brother of HH Sri Mahaperiyava. Sri Sadasiva Sastry alias Sivan SAR took birth on 3-OCTOBER-1904 in Sri SAR attained Mahasamadhi at Chennai on Eechangudi near Thiruvaiyaaru on the banks of the 7-March-1996 in his 91st age on a Phalguna Krishna holy river Kaveri in the month of Purattasi and star Paksha Dvithiya thithi. Pushya. Daily Recital of “Yenipadigalil Maanthargal” A renowned photographer and artist in HIS younger is indeed a supreme spiritual exercise. This book days, Sri SAR stayed for extended periods of time at is a ocean of universal knowledge and essence of kumbakonam and at Thiruvengadu before moving to Vedic philosophies given in a succinct form. Easily Chennai. During this period, He spent time in creating comprehendible by even the common layman, this “Nandavanams” at Kumbakonam Sri Matam and at spiritual odyssey is often referred to as the “Law book Thiruvengadu Sri Kanchi Acharya Adistanam while of spirituality” by His devotees. It explains pristine writing the glorious spiritual treasure “Yenipadigalil rules of what and what-nots one should follow in life. Maanthargal”. Indeed following the simple tenets in “Yenipadigalil With a thin saffron robe on a slender frail frame, Maanthargal” is enough to evolve in one’s life and attain Mukti from the cycle of life and death.

26 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  Philosophy Sivaraman G Papa Punyam No Shortcut to Salvation Introspection Lessons to Self from YPM ð£ð ¹‡òIó‡´‹ ¹Kò£îõ¡ ºŸPù M«õA. PAAPA PUNIYAMIRANDUM PURIYAADHAVAN MUTRINA VIVEKI. “One who is beyond Paapam and Punyam is a Mutrina Viveki”. Everyone is indebted to God. Therefore it is everyone’s duty to offer prayers to Iswaran. We should understand refraining from our duty is a sin whereas performing duties shouldn’t be attributed to Punyam. Often, we confuse between our duties and virtues. Many of us today express our dissatisfaction that remains in our minds despite our ardent devotion to Iswaran. What do we get in return? Our sufferings and misfortunes continue to hit us despite our devotion. When this is our duty why should we expect a return? A mother feeding her child , a father working to bring up the family and children looking after their parents are duties that need to be fulfilled without expecting returns. Dereliction of these duties will be wrong. Performing our duties correctly not only gives us the satisfaction but also the happiness in not failing from them. To a devotee, Sri Sivan SAR said “Don’t obsess towards attaining Sivan SAR in his inimitable style punya” - ¹‡EòˆFŸ° ªñù‚-ªè죫î!! So many of us don’t miss replied “With all that, you will get a opportunities to seek punya for ourselves. When a samashti event good wife, children, high wage career is conducted for benefit of the whole universe with the organizers and may be a cow as bonus.” To Sri taking huge efforts, some of us contribute as much as we can to such Ramanan’s bewilderment, He replied a massive effort. There are others who try to sneak in and seek selfish “It takes billions of births (to attain gains by just paying a sambhavanai to the performing Rithviks to moksha). Long way to go. Why fret receive all the Punya. Does the event’s purpose end with just paying over it now? Continue doing your the Brahmanaas? This is a misdirected definition of what alone leads duties”. There is indeed no shortcut to to punya. This invariably reminds me of Sri Sivan SAR’s words. This salvation. will lead us to introspect the objective of everything we do: Is this our responsibility or do we expect a return out of this deed? Once Bombay dyeing Sri Ramanan asked Sri Sivan SAR : \"SAR, if I perform all my NithyaKarma, perform various Japas and lead a flawless dharmic life, will it lead to Gnana and salvation?”. Sri

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 27 Philosophy Sivaraman G “One who has no smaranai of abusers is a Mahan”. a positive message would receive a humble smiley or a ‘thumbs up’ but a negative false propaganda would If we take a moment and introspect our own self, the go viral and create so many controversies. Why is this mind of ours moved so disproportionately by these glaring truth will present itself very clearly. Amongst negativities? Even from our perspective, the force exerted by us in criticizing others is much higher the circle of people we have been acquainted with, the than that used for praising their good deeds. We must carefully note that Sri Sivan SAR says a Mahan time and effort we take to brood over people who had is impermeable to abuses leave alone forgetting or forgiving. This definition is even beyond our detrimental effects in our life massively outweighs comprehension. How can this be possible? It only takes a Mahan to identify this nature of Mahans by that we have spent on people who have helped and being in the same plane of reference. Paapis and the ones who are trying to transcend to become positively influenced us. This seems to be the inherent a paamaran will find this difficult to understand. nature of most of us. Let’s look at a relevant example Apart from that, every word of Sri Sivan SAR will be irreplaceable and pregnant with meanings. we are very familiar with today. In the innumerable ’Smaranai’ is one such drop in that ocean. If not to the level of these Mahaans, let us at least revel WhatsApp groups we are all part of, in the happiness and blessings we receive and try to shut out negativities. There have been several occasions in my life where I have refrained from retaliating to naysayers or abusers, leaving it to my Gurunathar’s mercy. I have only been blessed with HIS boundless grace in making the events conspire to answer the unfair accusations better than anything I could have attempted. Criticism and Antagonism Introspection Lessons to Self from YPM

28 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  Recipe Umachi Thatha Sonna Recipe Mango Halwa Ingredients: RIPENED MANGOES  SAFFRON  SUGAR Take the pulp out of Mangoes, add sugar and saffron A few days later, a group of school students had and mix it. Spread it in a thin tray and dry it in visited Sri MahaPeriyava. They were asked to sing the sun. It would turn into thin delicious soft mango Tamil devotional songs. We offered banana and rock crisps. candy (Kalkandu) as prasadam to the students. What a memory Periyava has (as always)! He ordered to Once, a devotee from Salem brought a large distribute the mango halwa prepared from those Salem basket full of delicious mangoes when he came for Sri mangoes to these kids and said these kids would have MahaPeriyava darshan. Usually, Sri Periyava would never relished such a delicacy, and would certainly accept only a couple of pieces from a Mango, and so enjoy it. we were unsure about what needed to be done with so many mangoes. When we distributed it, the kids were so excited and true to His words, it was a sight for us to watch the ‘Make soft mango halwa out of these mangoes; students relish those pieces of mango halwa! squeeze the pulp, add sugar & saffron and dry it in the sun’ - came the order from HIM. We followed the recipe Source: Periyava Puranam - Balu Mama Pakkangal and dried it in the sun. It turned out to be delicious soft mango halwa crisps. We thought we could serve it during HIS Bikshai.

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 29 Alittle girl was suffering from whooping Karuppatti cough and no medicine seemed to help improve her condition. Periyava happened to notice this little girl coughing continuously and passed on the message through Simili Vanchinathan for the little girl to take some Karuppatti (palm sugar). Heeding to Periyava's words, the little girl took some Karupatti and since then the girl was completely cured of her illness. It was indeed Periyava's compassion and not Karupatti that worked as a medicine for the child's illness. Once, a woman had taken her son to Sri MahaPeriyava. Thengai Poo She told HIM that her son was suffering from mouth ulcers for a long time and that she had tried giving all different kinds of medicines without any improvement. Periyava looked at HIS devotees and asked if any thengai poo was available? All the devotees were baffled and wondered if such a thing ever existed? Simultaneously, a Pundit, Kakkinada Chinthamani Ganapathy Shasthri, had just arrived with his twenty disciples from Andhra with a bag full of cocunuts. The pandit's disciples broke all thirty coconuts in front of Periyava and offered them at HIS feet. Four out of the thirty broken coconuts had a half-lemon sized ball (thengai poo) inside them. Periyava got extremely delighted and exclaimed thengai poo was available now. Periyava asked HIS devotee to give thengai poo to the boy and instructed it to be had everyday in small quantities after drying it.

30 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ, USA The journey thus far ... The Supreme power emphasizes His Supreme Presence & Grace through divine interventions kalpa after kalpa. At times, most significant happenings come through most insignificant people. Or most insignificant species make the whole world turn back at it through a most significant happening. In Treta Yuga, Lord Rama turns a “Darbai Pul” (grass) into Brahmastra to punish Kakasura. Later, Lord Rama built Sethu Bandhan with an army of monkeys. As a testament to the divine words “Sambhavaami yuge yuge”, in Kali Yuga, there are many such divine plays that reinstate this underlying divinity. ‘Mooka kavi’ – a speech impaired person from birth was regularly

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 31 What’s ecstatical is the fact that even before the inception of this divine initiative in our minds, Periyava laid the Sanatana Dharmic path, built a Granite Temple and consecrated HIMSELF as a Panchaloha Vigraham many years ago. Karanam Kaaranam Kartha It all started in 2012 where HE sowed the seed in Kanchipuram right in front of HIS Adistanam during AtiRudram conducted for Sri MahaPeriyava Jayanthi. In early 2013, the thought of bringing up HIS place of worship sprouted and ever since then every action coincidentally became a stepping stone towards that goal. Thinking retrospectively, today it gives us realization on how Periyava has been reinstating that HE is indeed the “Karanam Kaaranam Kartha”. BajaamiSathathamBhakthyaa Paramacharya Padhukaam In September 2013, Sri Pudhu Periyava blessed the initiative by giving Sri Mukham. On October 9th 2013, visiting ‘Kamakshi’ temple and was prostrating before the goddess. One day He saw the lips of the goddess and after that He started to speak and wrote ‘Mooka Pancha Sati’. This ‘mooka kavi’ later became one of the Acharyas of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Even in this 21st century, such “Divine Interventions” are orchestrated at various times in various places. One such immense blessing is Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam - New Jersey USA. It is HIS place of worship that HE is bringing up for all of us!

32 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  (That son of Duraiswamy) who was in tears hearing about this divine initiative and shared his emotions on how much he longed for this dream of bringing HIS house of worship. Mama was the first devotee to give a $5000 check even before a non profit organization was started. a divine Sankalpam was made at Sri MahaPeriyava Sanatana Dharma Foundation Inc Adistanam - A special day of Ayushmaan Bhava Sowmya, Sukhla Paksha Panchami & Auspicious Year 2014 is the very first context in which Sri Anusham. MahaPeriyava started manifesting HIS divine plans and started connecting the dots. The first dot is On 1st November 2013, HIS Uththaravu for our Dharmatma Dr. Yegnasubramanian fondly known as Sankalpam came through HIM as HE blessed HIS Sri Mani mama who is well known to all of us through Padhuka through Sri Mettur Swamigal. Sri Swamigal his indefatigable commitment to sustain and nurture gave His hearty blessings for this divine initiative. Hindu Dharma. Knowing him for a good few years, While Sri Mettur Swamigal was ailing the last few there was never been an opportunity to meet him and days, it seems as though He was waiting to initiate this talk to him personally except for the exchange of a divine journey of Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam few words of courtesy. While HE chose Mani mama NJ USA before shedding His mortal coil on November to be instrumental to get the auspices of “Sanatana 2nd 2013. Dharma Foundation Inc” – a non-profit organization for HIS place of worship, how can it be otherwise? That was the very first realization of HIS visible hands blessing us all. The purpose of life, as destined When Mani mama started this foundation in the by HIM, was evident on that day. And ever since then, year 2006 for Bhagavad Gita Scholarships, neither life has never been the same and can never get any did he intend it for Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam better. NJ USA nor did we know we would meet him much later in 2014. A dormant non-profit organization came It can even be described as a roller coaster ride back to life as destined by HIM to serve the purpose with lots of twists and turns, ups and downs but the of Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA. What ultimate difference is that in a typical roller coaster started in 2006 got its purpose revealed in 2014 as HE we hold the bars tight fearing we may fall. Whereas destined. in this blissful ride, HE instantaneously instilled the faith that HE is holding us and there is no question of While HE laid the path, the search for HIS abode falling. That “Faith” HE has been giving, turned all began and continued through months and months… thorns into roses. Thirupugalur Thandha ThiruSengal In this blissful ride, Dr Alagappa Chettiar who built the NY Ganesha Temple - first hindu temple In June 2014, HE staged HIS next play in in North America joined briefly and shared all his Thirupugalur. While Parameswaran turned bricks into valuable insights. Then came Dr Sundararaman mama gold for Sundaramurthy Swamigal, our Prathyaksha Parameswaran blessed us by getting the Holy Bricks from Thirupugalur and blessings it in HIS Adistanam along with Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Swamigal and Sri Vijayendra Saraswathi Swamigal on the very auspicious day of Sri Adi Sankara Bhagavadpadal Aradhanai. This time, the next dot that got connected was Smt Mahalakshmi mami who has been chosen by HIM to be instrumental in bringing the bricks from Thirupugalur. Mami is a big pillar of support from

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 33 India for this divine initiative. While HE blessed the FIRST HOLY BRICK, Sri Pudhu Periyava blessed Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam with HIS Holy Sri Padhuka through Dr. Yegnasubramanian and Sri BalaPeriyava blessed the divine initiative with HIS Anugraha Bashanam through Smt Mahalakshmi mami. learn all the due diligence that needs to be done in a shortest time possible. Finally, HE chose HIS abode in Flemington for a remarkable price and within a very short closing process. This time HE chose the engineering company person named Eric Rupnarain who played a key role in getting a 10 acre property in October 2015. The property deed was kept in HIS Adistanam HIS Abode In October 2015, our Prayers to find HIS Abode was answered. For almost a year and half, the intense search for HIS place of abode progressed tirelessly. Few properties that passed the first level scrutiny ended in vain. Little did we know that this “impatient search time” is the “training time” HE gave us to

34 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  and was blessed by both Sri Pudhu Periyava and Sri blessed picture for Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam BalaPeriyava. Periyava chose Sri Ramesh Sethuraman NJ USA and offering pooja to it will lead to speedy (Trustee - SKGT) to be instrumental for this. Ramesh progress of the initiative. Mama’s word which is HIS mama is a big pillar of support, coordinating many act resulted in revealing new set of dots just to make things from India for this divine initiative. us realize more and more that HE is Prathyaksham. HIS Unique Blessings HIS Panchaloha Vigraham In January 2016, on auspicious Thai Pongal, HE It was on Guruvaaram, April 7th 2016 (Auspicious showered a unique blessing. HE started connecting Ugadi day), Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ the next set of dots. HE chose Sri Sridhar (fondly USA was blessed with a Panchaloha MahaPeriyava known as Navy Sridhar) from the Thiruvarur Family whose mother is an ardent devotee by name Smt Kamalathammal. Navy Sridharan mama had a treasure that he wholeheartedly gave it to Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA. It was the landscape elevation picture of the now pridely presiding, 21st century’s architectural marvel “Sri MahaPeriyava Manimantapam - Orikkai”. What’s special about the picture and what relevance does it have with Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA? Well, when Sri Ganapathi Sthapathi had darshan Vigraham from Orikkai Manimandapam that will be of Sri MahaPeriyava, HE was shown the proposed consecrated as “Moolavar” in HIS Shrine in New elevation for Orikkai Manimantapam but HE did Jersey. not even look at it. Sri Pradosham mama told Sri Ganapathi Sthapathi to change the elevation. When On May 5th 2016, The Moolavar Periyava came to Sri Sthapathi showed the revised elevation to Sri NJ and is worshipped with Nithya Poojai at Skillman MahaPeriyava, HE gazed at it, touched the whole NJ USA more like a “Balaalayam”. picture with HIS Holy Hands, kept it close to HIS Heart, and then kumkumam from HIS forehead fell all over the picture as a blessing. The elevation that Sri Ganapathi Sthapathi designed the second time is today’s Sri MahaPeriyava Manimantapam - Orikkai. Navy mama strongly believed that giving this

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 35 While there was no idea on what HIS Sanctum will be adorned with other than HIS Padhuka, HE destined it to be a Panchaloha Vigraham like Chidambaram Nataraja and SabarimalaiAyyapan. It was theVigraham made as Utsavar for HIS Orikkai Manimantapam in year 2011 that ended up as Moolavar for HIS NJ Manimandapam in the year 2016. This time HE chose Sri Narayanaswami Iyer and Gopalapuram Sri Mani Iyer (Trustees of Sri MahaPeriyava Manimantapam - Orikkai) to be instrumental for this act. One fine day, HE ignited the spark in Sri Narayanaswami Iyer’s mind as to, “why not send the Utsavar Periyava made for Orikkai to New Jersey”. The story goes back to 2011 where the Utsavar made turned out to be more than 140kgs in weight. After coming on a Swarna Ratham on MahaKumbabhishekam day at Orikkai, the Utsavar Periyava (being very heavy) ended up in a Rudraksha Mandapam outside the Garbha Graham of Orikkai Manimantapam. A lighter weight Moorthy was done later as Utsavar. As the story unwinds further, it came into picture temple for us in NJ”. Thus the whole temple (Garbha that Advocate Sri Venkatasubramanian who was Graham, Ardha Mandapam, Vimaanam) HE made instrumental in getting the Utsavar done through ready 6 years ago will be HIS Sanctum in NJ. That Sri Ganesa Sarma, originally desired to offer the devotee was moved by HIS divine act by realizing Moolavar Vigraham for Orikkai. Nearly 5 years the proposed temple in chennai didn’t happen as HE later he was emotionally soaked by HIS Anugraham planned for the same in NJ. knowing that the Utsavar he made 5 years ago was already destined to be the Moolavar (as desired by When the elevation was shared, that devotee and him) for Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam, though all of us were completely blown out to find that the not for Orikkai, but for New Jersey… dimension of the granite temple elevation perfectly fits the proposed elevation of Sri MahaPeriyava HIS Sanctum Manimandapam NJ USA. In mid 2016, HE unveiled HIS Sanctum that HE HIS Site Plan Approval in the Township already kept ready in early 2013. HE never gave a choice or even a chance to think and visualize In April 2017, Raritan Township approved the site HIS Sanctum only because HE had already made plan of Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA. HIS Sanctum back in 2013. A casual call to a Bringing up Hindu Temples in USA is not an easy devotee to spread the message of Sri MahaPeriyava task. We may have heard about the lengthy process Manimandapam NJ USA paved way to a remarkable from different organisations involved in temples. turn of events. Well, with Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA, it is HIS will to choose Flemington - Raritan That devotee wanted to build a temple for HIM Township. The township board and the governing in Chennai but was deferred only to let us know that panel were very friendly and the approval was given “We desired to build a granite temple for HIM in Chennai, whereas HE destined to build HIS granite

36 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  in the second hearing only because they ran short of On a Guruvaaram, April 6th 2017, exactly a year time in the first hearing meeting. later after Moolavar Periyava came, Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA was blessed with a Periyava A temple for Hindu God and Goddess versus a (made of fibre) from the “Sthubhi” – A dream project temple for a Guru is so different operationally - how to of Ekadesa Vaitha Mama (aka Simpson Vaitha Mama) explain to the panel? Why explain, when HE is there that turned into reality. The Sthubhi Periyava reached to expound? The enlightenment HE gave the township just in time as a blessing for “Bhoomi Pujai”. panel about worshipping the Guru in an inexplicable way, made the approval process a cozy ride. We thank On June 25th 2017, with the Blessings of our the office bearers of the Raritan Township for their Periyava, the most auspicious milestone of this divine immense support in this initiative. initiative - “Bhoomi Poojai” was done. Sri Bala Periyava blessed the occasion by sending Prasadam HIS Bhoomi Poojai & Shawl for this auspicious event. Key Initiatives Periyava Padhuka Yatra A Sankalpam was taken to do Sri MahaPeriyava Padhukai Poojai all around USA in all 50 states, whereas HE turned it into a Maha Sankalpam and HE has been taking us all over the world. Sri MahaPeriyava Padhuka Yatra is Divine Bliss. So far, Periyava has taken us to many States within USA, Canada, UK and UAE. Periyava has been taking us places & reinstating VASUDEIVA KUTUMBAKAM. Mahanyasa Purvaka Ekadasa Padhuka Rudra Abhishekam and Avahanthi Homam on Auspicious Anusham With HIS blessings, Mahanyasa Purvaka Padhuka

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 37 Blessings continue & Prayers continue... While Parameswaran’s Thiruvilayadal makes us euphoric just by listening or reading, one cannot express our Prathyaksha Parameswaran’s Thiruvilayadal in bringing forth Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA in mere words. Aanandham Aanandham and Aanandham… Magnifying the abundant blessings that we have been bestowed with, Siva Saagaram, the abode of Sri Sivan SAR - Purvashrama brother of Sri MahaPeriyava, is the operational fulcrum of Sri MahaPeriyava ManiMandapam New Jersey’s vision and mission in India. This facet in the blissful journey of Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA always fills us with awe, admiring the beauty of “Thambi” Saachu (aka Sri Sivan SAR) being the guiding light for His Anna’s (Sri MahaPeriyava) temple. Rudra Abhishekam is being offered since January With the blessings of the Acharyas of Kanchi 2015. Avahanthi Homam is done every Anusham in Kamakoti Peetam, with the township approval in front of Sri MahaPeriyava Moolavar for praying to hand, HIS Panchaloka Vigraham in Nithya Pooja, HIS HIM for the Loka Kshemam and Kumbhabhishekam Sanctum ready in granite, HIS temple construction of Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA. progressing, the blissful journey continues where HE is driving us, cleansing us and guiding us. Periyava Prasadam Seva One thing that is strongly evident is, “Sri On Sri MahaPeriyava Jayanthi 2016, a Sankalpam MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA” has already was made to send Prasadam to all devotees in USA. been built by HIM. HE is using all of us in a dotted What started in a small scale with 100 devotees now picture, connecting us at the time HE destines and has raised to several devotees and the testimonials makes us an instrument till the time HE determines. received from devotees makes us spellbound knowing how Periyava touches everyone’s life in HIS own àò˜è¼¬í¹K»I¡ð‚èì™Í›A way! à¬ùªòù¶÷P»ñ¡¬ðˆ î¼õ£«ò Vasudeiva Kutumbakam Let us all pray to HIM to keep us with HIM forever and bless us to be instrumental in this Samashti Yagna Apart from the board of trustees, the active - Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA. volunteers, there are so many unsung souls behind this divine initiative putting their heart and soul throughout Tath Chinthanam Tath Vachanam Tath the world through their prayers, actions & monetary Anyoniya Prabhodhanam Tath Param contributions to bring forth Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA. What started as volunteering for Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA is bringing out many offshoots like Periyava Times and Periyava Akashavani tying them all together with the Banyan “Periyava Puranam”.

38 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 39 Balakrishna Joshi Jewellers (P) Ltd No.9, Lake Area First Cross Street, Nungambakkam, Chennai - 600 034 Land Line 044-4210 0496 Traditional Jewellers “Our sincere prayers at the lotus feet of Sri MahaPeriyava for the auspicious Maha Kumbhabhishekam of Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam New Jersey, USA

40 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  BLESSING MESSAGES 70th Sankaracharya of Kanchi Kamakoti Chaturmasyam, HE took time to inquire on the Peetam Sri Sankara Vijayendra Saraswathi progress of this divine initiative. HE showed Swamigal keen interest in going through the site plan of Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam, NJ USA and HE also HH Sri BalaPeriyava immensely blessed this divine discussed about the future plans and expansion of this initiative. On His Utharavu, Sri Suriyanarayanan and initiative. Smt Aarthi Suriyanarayanan (Trustees of Sanatana Dharma Foundation Inc) had the darshan of HH Sri HE gave Utharavu to adorn the walls of Sri BalaPeriyava at Ongole, Andhra Pradesh on July 12th MahaPeriyava Manimandapam, NJ USA with “Guru 2016. Parampara” like Sri MahaPeriyava Tapovanam in Govindapuram. Despite HIS very heavy schedule, just before Sri Masillamani Desiga Gnanasambanda Swamigal - Dharmapuram Adheenam As a tribute to the pristine life of thapas led by Sri MahaPeriyava, a temple is being constructed in New Jersey. In praising the glory of such Gnanis and their life, our life gets uplifted. May this commendable effort by HIS devotees succeed and HIS message reach everybody world over. As the tamil adage goes : “¹™Lù£™ «è£®ò£‡´ ¹¶ ñ‡í£™ ðˆ¶ «è£® Ü™Lò¡ «è£¬î ðƒè¡ Ýôò‹ ñìƒèœ â™ô£‹ è™Lù£™ ªê¶‚A«ò£˜èœ èJ¬ô¬ò M†ìèôªõ¡«ø”. Being a part of this Divine Kainkaryam reserves a prominent place in ThiruKailaayam.

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 41 46th Pattam Srivan Satakopa Sri Ranganatha Yathindra Mahadesikan - Ahobila Matam The 68th peetadhipathi of Kanchi sankara matham, Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Swamigal toiled hard for sustenance of vedas and dharma. I am pleased to note this dharmic effort by the devotees of New Jersey. I am particularly happy about this initiative due to my association with Sri MahaPeriyava during my poorvashrama days. May everyone around the globe encourage this effort and celebrate our dharma. May HE, undoubtedly an avatara purusha, bless everyone. Swami Dayananda Saraswathi Swamigal - Arsha Vidya Gurukulam MahaPeriyava lived the life of a true Mahatma. When he visited my village, he blessed me with a coin of Shankara and little did I know that his blessings will stay with me forever. I am His blessing. In the name of Sanatana dharma a trust has been formed. It will help Sanatana dharma flourish. I am very happy to note it is building a temple for Sri MahaPeriyava. Swami Omkarananda Swamigal - Swami Chidbhavananda Ashramam, Theni Devotees of Sri MahaPeriyava in New Jersey are working towards a Manimandapam for HIM and praying for its Maha Kumbhabhishekam next year with HIS Anugraham. Our Bharatha Desam has seen many Mahans who have performed severe Tapas to sustain our Sanatana Dharma. One such Mahan is Sri MahaPeriyava who traveled the whole Bharata Desam and propagated our dharma like Sri Adi Acharyal. Considering HIM as Lord Iswara himself, we will pray to HIM with shraddha-bhakthi in the upcoming Manimandapam. I pray to HIM for this Manimandapam and flourishing of all associated dharmic activities even after the Kumbhabhishekam. Sri Kamakshi Swamigal - Shri Swarna Kameshwari Seva Sangh It (Manimandapam) is going to come up in all its grandeur. No doubt, this initiative will be blessed with both Dhana (money) & Jhana (devotees) Aakarshanam. By 2020, we all may wait in a long line like Tirupathi to have a glimpse of HIS darshan.

42 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  WISHING MESSAGES Sri Vedantam - Vishva Hindu Parishad When the map of this temple was shown to Sri BalaPeriyava few years ago, I was contemplating the possibility of such an effort thinking about its magnitude. But after coming here and listening to all the stories, I am truly touched. I am fortunate to be here and may everyone contribute in various forms to this monumental effort. Dharmatma Dr. S Yegnasubramanian Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam is an initiative, first of its kind outside India. It needs Purva Janma Sukrtam to be a part of such an initiative. I am glad that this Manimandapam is coming up and I am sure this is going to grow leaps and bounds to make us be a part of Dharma. We are already born as Manushyas but the yearning to be in the path of Moksha alone makes us Mumukshus. Let us all pray to Sri MahaPeriyava to keep us in this path of Dharma. This will be a benefit not only to ourselves but the community we live in and so many future generations to come. Dr. S Vaidhyasubramaniam - Dean Sastra University This Manimandapam is a true testament to the fact that our sanatana dharma is not confined to a geographical boundary. It is great bhagyam to have the darshan of Sri MahaPeriyava and through this effort, even the future generations who have not seen him in physical form will be blessed with his anugraham. This is indeed HIS sankalpam and the devotees here are working towards making it a reality. Sri Gopalapuram Mani Iyer - Trustee, Sri MahaPeriyava Manimantapam - Orikkai When devotees from New Jersey expressed their desire to bring forth a Manimandapam for Sri MahaPeriyava, I said “Definitely go ahead, but always remember that this is not by us but completely by HIM”. There will be many obstacles for such divine initiatives but as HE is “Bayakrit Baya Nasanah” HE will give them and remove them. At Orikkai, HIS Moolavar vigraham arrived only after the construction but in New Jersey, HIS Panchaloha Vigraham arrived before the construction began. It is indeed HIS way of telling us that HE will supervise the construction of HIS Manimandapam in NJ from beginning to end.

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 43 Sri Vikku Vinayakram Today, Nov 2nd 2016, on the Auspicious Anusham, I’m blessed to be in New Jersey on the site where HIS Manimandapam is to be constructed. It is our tradition go to Kanchipuram every wednesday for HIS Darshan and today coincidentally being Wednesday is a divine coincidence and is entirely due to HIS anugraham. May the Manimandapam come up soon with HIS blessings. I pray to HIM seeking HIS Blessings to come and perform on the auspicious Kumbhabhishekam day of Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA . Smt Aruna Sairam I am thrilled to note that SrI MahaPeriyava is blessing us with the Manimandapam in New Jersey similar to HIS Blessings to Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam in Orikkai. HE has decided to come here to New Jersey for our sake and to reach us with HIS noble messages. It is not a dream anymore, it is a reality. Sri Cleveland Sundaram Efforts are being undertaken to construct a Manimandapam for Sri MahaPeriyava in New Jersey and step by step this is move towards fruition. May there be everybody’s cooperation for this effort. Participating in this will give Sreyas to us and our future generations. I am of the firm belief that our children will be guided towards the right path of life by having HIS darshan at the Manimandapam. I request everyone to help this initiative in whatever capacity and make this dream a reality Sri Cleveland Balu I feel Periyava is equal to God. We, the Cleveland Thyagaraja Aradhana Committee, have supported this initiative to the best of our ability. With His anugraham, may everything be successful. I humbly pray to take part during the Kumbhabhishekam event of Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam. We are so happy to have a stall from Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam at the Cleveland Thyagaraja aradhana festival every year. When the kids pass by and see HIM (His pictures), that in itself will be a great Anugraham for them.

44 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  7il irundhu 70 varai – From 7 to 70 Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam satsangam Venkataraman Iyer, fondly called as Pradosham meets every month atleast once. The satsangam mama, Sri Ganesa Sarma is heading Mylai Anusham. has devotees spanning across various age groups who That was my first satsangam experience where I got relate to Sri MahaPeriyava and the satsangam in their to know how Sri MahaPeriyava is being celebrated. unique ways. Here we present multiple perspectives It became impossible for me to miss an anusham on who is Sri MahaPeriyava to each of them and what since then and I became a regular attendee. Time flew this satsangam means to them. and I had decided to do my masters. Even though I had received an admit from UPenn, my heart was Sashwath (Age 7) still at Mylai longing to celebrate Sri MahaPeriyava with all the grandeur. However, Sri MahaPeriyava Periyava guides us and gives us all good things. had other plans for me and gave me the bhaagyam He gives me toys when I pray to him. I will follow of celebrating him with the same fervour, thousands His preachings. He is Lord Shiva himself. I will pray of miles away. Here I am now being part of Sri to MahaPeriyava to bless my family with good health MahaPeriyava Manimandapam family. Every month and happiness with Sri MahaPeriyava’s anugraham, I was blessed to attend all poojas and also had the bhagyam to travel Mathura (Age 11) with Sri MahaPeriyava through the New England and Seattle padhuka yathra organized by Sri MahaPeriyava Periyava is God to me. I pray to him every time Manimandapam NJ USA. I am down and He answers my prayers. We always think of God as being up above in the clouds, but I The padhuka yatras gave me the opportunity feel Periyava is always with us and guides us at every to experience the thrill of being a part of Periyava step. The one thing I like about our Manimandapam is Parivaaram while traveling with Sri MahaPeriyava. that we are all one big family and I enjoy how we get I experienced something that I had only heard from together for various events. various devotees’ experiences from Periyava Puranam videos. Rain or snow, midnight or early morning, Keshav (Age 21) people were on their feet to receive Periyava at their homes and offer their prayers. Each house had a I am Keshav, one of the volunteers of Sri connection with Sri MahaPeriyava that was not the MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ, USA. I came to same with another. Many mentioned the positive the US in August 2016 for my masters in Chemical developments that had occurred in their life after Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania. Periyava blessed their homes. In Sri.Kulapathi Joshi’s I have been part of the Thiru Mylai Anusham since words “It requires tremendous misfortune to escape its inception. Under the guidance of Sri Pradosha

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 45 the impartial gaze of HIS HOLINESS.” I am at a Arunachalam (Age 72) loss of words to conclude on this as I urge each and everyone in the US and all over the world to do their My humble Namaskarams to all MahaPeriyava part in bringing up Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam Devotees. I am sharing some of the nostalgic memories NJ USA and start or continue their Satsangam journey of Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam at Orirukkai. with Sri MahaPeriyava on this initiative. When I visited with my family in the earlier days of its construction, I was wonder struck at the mere sight Vaidehi Subramaniam (Age 40) of it. Then least I expected that I could have a chance to be a part of one more Manimandapam. Our Holy Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam has helped Periyava had already decided to give me a small role me understand the purpose of my life, Having been in the great work that is to be taken after a decade in in the US for 9 years, there have been times when I New Jersey, USA. On that day when we visited the pondered about where I was and what I was heading Orikkai Manimandapam, we never had an inkling that towards. In the last two years of being associated with we could migrate to USA. Never a thought of USA the Manimandapam family, I have found my purpose was in our minds. Little did I know then that some of in life. I am now very happy. Everybody yearns for us will have the great fortune to conduct the Nithya happiness without knowing what it is. I have found Pooja to our Periyava Moorthy, to be consecrated at my happiness. Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA, with our own hands, This MahaPeriyava wave has laid Jayashree Narayanan (Age 50) the road for Paduga Yatras to so many states of US. In fact no one can forget the “Padha Yatras” of our I am very very very very delighted to be a part of Paramacharyal through the length and breadth of India. Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam. No words can Now HE has decided to extend HIS “Karunyam”to the express this happiness. It will not be possible for Bhaktas of US. In the visits that I was part of, I have all of us to visit India and go to Sri Matam to have seen that each house that we visited with the Punya darshan of our Periyavas every year. This has come as Padukhas of Periyava, was in one way or the other a blessing to many of us. connected to Periyava’s lifetime. MahaPeriyava was not a stranger to any of these families and this was the Hari Srinivasan (Age 54) experience of all the others who had undertaken the Yatra with the Padukhas. Ultimately MahaPeriyava, Sri Gurubhyo namaha. I have been blessed by has united us all together towards one common HIM to perform Nithya Pooja to our Moolavar Sri goal of spreading Bhakti.Overall my feeling is that MahaPeriyava. Every second of our life, we must be MahaPeriyava has shown us a way of bringing up our indebted for this wonderful opportunity. This Nithya next generation in the right path, in spite of all other pooja is a self-evolutionary process. During the attractions and distractions of this modern country. pooja, you forget the padathi and everything around Many are realizing the values and virtues and coming you and at one point. You remember only one thing. out boldly to inculcate all this into their children. We must celebrate Sri MahaPeriyava and make use Only the foundation work for the Manimandapam is of the valuable opportunity HE has provided. Deep starting and it has already created such a big change down all our hearts, we hope and pray these poojas in our lives, and we all wonder what would be after should soon happen in our Manimandapam every this Unique Manimandapam of New Jersey comes time we perform the Nithya pooja. I look forward to into full operation. Already many a parent visiting this this bhagyam every week. Words fail me to describe country on tourist visa, is feeling bad about having to the sheer bliss of being Sri MahaPeriyava Padhuka go away from the Satsang activities that are going on Yatras. At every house, we have seen scores of here. Ultimately MahaPeriyava has made us feel great devotees surrendering all their worries in front of Sri and no one is feeling that they are so far away from MahaPeriyava and feeling relieved, brimming with their home or tradition. MahaPeriyava is proving hope for the future. Just the fact that we have been used that HE is living with us and making our lives more by Sri MahaPeriyava in being a small part in soothing meaningful and making us spend our time and money their worries, gives us great satisfaction. I am looking in the right direction. What else can we ask HIM. HE forward to the next yatra. This Satsangam reinstates is Karuna Moorthy and no evening or weekend is the fact that we are not at all miles away from Sri spent in a wasteful way. How are we going to show MahaPeriyava. HE as Sarvavyapi is everywhere to our gratitude than by partaking in the Padukha Yatras, bless us from everywhere. Samashti Poojas or in any way possible towards the Manimandapam efforts.

46 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  Art by Keerthana Subburathinam Sri MahaPeriyava Padhuka Yatra is divine bliss. Some of us would PERIYAVA have had the Bhagyam of participating in PADHUKA Periyava Pattina Pravesam during HIS days. Many of us would have heard all about the YATRA grand caravan of Gowri-Kalai vaadhyam, horses, elephants, camels and the grand Parivaaram with which Periyava arrived. Years have passed... HE may not be in HIS STHOOLA SARIRAM today but HE is always with us in HIS SKOOKSHAMA SARIRAM. Those who are all part of this Sri MahaPeriyava Padhuka Yatra have been soaked in this divine bliss, feeling HIS presence throughout. Gowri-Kalai may have been replaced by mangala isai through smart phones... horses, camels and elephant may have been replaced with cars. But, the experience of going in yatra with HIM is the same even in HIS SOOKSHAMA SARIRAM. The Anandham, the tears, the shivers, the excitement above all “PERIYAVA VARA PERIYAVA VARA” feeling - none of it can be boxed in words. Here are a few devotees’ experiences… When Periyava (Padhuka) Came Home… Arun Sundaram & Malathi Arun San Jose, California Bhava eva bhavan ithi menitharam, samajayatha chethasi kauthukitha Mama vaaraya moha mahaa jaladhim, bhava Shankara deshika me charanam You are Lord Shiva Himself. Knowing this my mind is filled with an abundance of joy. Put an end to my sea of delusion. O Preceptor Shankara, be my refuge.

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 47 Periyava is coming to San Jose as a part of Sri Smt Shobha Sankar - Florida MahaPeriyava Padhuka Yatra. The sheer excitement of His Holiness’s upcoming visit brought back a Ayodhya was ruled by Rama’s Padhuka for 14 myriad of happy memories of the past. Periyava years. In the very end of Ramayana, Rama sends is our Lord, Benefactor, Our children’s Umachi Hanuman to Ayodhya to convey that He will soon be Thatha and HIS grace is our family’s “Kavacham” back after Ravana Samharam to Bharat. Hanuman against all ill. To me and my family, HE is our only was extremely excited for this mission as He has guide to get things sorted out. In happiness and in served Lord Rama and been with Him, and was eager despair, HE shows us the way in HIS own ways. To to see His ‘Padhuka’ which was ruling Ayodhya in me and my family, having unreserved, unflinching, Rama’s absence. unquestionable faith in HIS Holiness is the path to happiness and wellbeing. So, when the volunteers of Hanuman’s excitement and enthusiasm is similar to the MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA reached what Floridians felt when they got Periyava Padhuka out, it was the same if not less exciting anticipation of a darshan. Having darshan of Periyava Padhuka was like “pandigai” in our home in the silicon valley. My sister Periyava visiting each and every home and blessing Shobha Shankar who lives in Boston / Boca Raton every one of us. Whether rich or poor, apartment or knew and tipped the volunteers about my existence gated homes or mansions, for Periyava it is the same and the opportunity to host was possible. The first love and affection towards us all. thing was to let my mother Lakshmi Sundaram and my in-laws Meena Ganapathy and Mr R Ganapathy We could feel this with the eagerness of Sri know about this. The first comment was : “Nee MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA volunteers Kuduthu Vachirikkai” “Periyava Anusham anniki who had come together to be with Periyava. It brought varaal” . The significance was even more ironed into tears to my eyes to see the next generation so devoted our psyche. We invited our near and dears for this to Periyava. They were so committed, traveling many pandigai and it was like a “mini kalyanam” ambience miles all around this country to be with Periyava in the family Arun home. The volunteers arrived spot during his Yatra. In my childhood, I saw Periyava on time and in the chants of Jaya Jaya Sankara.. Hara doing Padha Yatra to Satara, and this experience Hara Sankara, MahaPeriyava was welcomed home brought back those memories. Periyava is truly “Raja with a mangala arati to our home. Periyava was in the Sanyasi-Rama Samanar”. heart of our home on a fully adorned pedestal over a maa kolam. It was perfect and we all felt the vibes Karthik Ramaswamy - New Jersey of HIS divine presence. My body was shaking and ¶‡ì ªõ‡H¬ø è¬øJ¬ø voice choked with happiness with sheer humility of ñ£ºQ õ£›ˆ¶ HIS grace. Our children Shivanee and Aryan had pre- printed copies of the “Thotakashtakam” and they led CPòù£‹ «ð¬îðò¡ ñù‚ßÁ ï¡èP‰¶ M¬ìðèó the chanting with others in unison. With Neivedyam , Mantrapushpam and Deeparadanai, we paid obeisance «ðKòù£‹  ꣡Á¬î èöŸP¼õE ï¬ìFèö to HIS Holiness. The 20 minutes stay of HIS Holiness will forever be imprinted in our memories and I can ↮î껋 êƒèóù£˜ ¹è¿¬î F¼ï£ñˆF¡ ñíƒèñö fondly reminisce “Periyava enga aathuku vandhaar” õ‰Fî껋 Þîøõ£¾¡ è¼îíJ¡ îóªñ¡?! àŒ‰«î«ù! Üèªñ¡ð¶‹ à¡ù®õ¼ì ãŸøºŸø£Ÿ ðè£Jô¡ðø£?! Føªñ¡ð¶‹ ïôñ¼÷ ðñ¡îñ»ø c»îóŠðî¡ðø£?! îóªñ¡ð¶‹ Ü®ò£˜î‹ M¼‰«î£‹ðLŸ Cø‰îªî£¡«ø£?! Üøªñ¡ð¶‹ à¡ î¬è¬ñ꣙ CøŠH¬ùŠ ¹è›¬õ¡ðø£?! - - Þ¬øõ¡ Ü®ò£ó®Šªð£® 裘ˆF‚ Þó£ñ²õ£I î£ê¡

48 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  Paramapadham Design by Poorna Ram

 Periyava Jayanthi Malar 49 Find your way to Sri MahaPeriyava Find the words in the puzzle below

50 Periyava Jayanthi Malar  What is ½ of 9? A. 4 B. 0 Hint: Think like a Roman C. 1 Answer is IV. Here is how? IX Source: Periyava posed this question to Sri Venkataraman Mama. Watch Periyava Puranam – Experience with MahaPeriyava by Sri Ganesan Ganapadigal.