KARMA PART 1

The first scenario: A man believing that he is in control of his life, takes the stage and proudly declares how he had planned and executed his well laid blueprint of life bringing it to a magnificent level of success as he had drawn and outlined for himself. He stands on the threshold of success and looking back declares his hard work and effort coupled with a secret potion or mantra that he had coined or discovered had brought him to where he was today. He packages and markets his product assuring that the public too could become successful like him. He tells us his success story. Fine. But how many turn out to be a successful businessman? 

The second scenario: A modern day guru or motivator takes the stage and portrays himself as a mentor and shows the rest of the world that success is indeed within oneself and within everyone's reach. He tells us his success story too. Fine. How many turn out to be a good orator? 

The third scenario: A guru takes the stage and expounds all the religious scriptures to the masses who have gathered around in the belief that they too could see the light beyond all of life's problems. He gathers them around and shows them a preview of what was to come, asking them to join his establishment for further guidance. He tells us his success story too. Fine. How many turn out to be a revered monk?

The fourth scenario: A man inherits his parents fortunes and continues to life in luxury and splendour, spending others money. Fine. How many receive a windfall? 

On the other hand we come across other entirely opposite scenarios too.

The fifth scenario: A man loses his lucrative well paid job overnight suddenly. He has sleepless nights, absorbed in figuring how he is going to make ends meet, pay the bills and place food on the table. Why did his life turn around for the worst overnight?

The sixth scenario: Another family goes through endless arguments and fights that never seem to end. Why does not peace prevail in this home?

The seventh scenario: A family that never saw a silver lining since day one. Why have they been deprived of a blessed and good life?

The eighth scenario: He works two jobs and strives and strives but luck is never on his side. What about him who ends up defeated and having failed although he had slogged and worked hard to achieve his dreams?

These are only some of the many probabilities and possibilities out there that many a common man might face. Now why is there a distinct difference in the lifestyle and level of achievement between people?

Astrology or Jothidam gives us the formula, to read all the possibilities and combinations laid out in life, says Aasan TR. Visiting an astrologer might throw some light. But then when the predictions do not materialize then one sits back and begins to question if the astrological predictions were wrong or for the matter the science itself was a scam. Doubts start to creep in.

When predictions for me by Dr Krishnan did not materialize, I questioned him too. He asked that I see the Nadi Sastra. That was the very first time I heard about this science, its authors the Siddhas and their mystical and mysterious oracle.

True to the Dr's words, these and many other questions were subsequently answered by the Siddhas, the author of this science of prediction known as Nadi and Olai Suvadi. The Siddhas have the ability to fathom the secrets of life and reveal what exactly is taking place and why we are in a particular spot or dilemma. They reveal, show and clarify this mystery through the Nadi Sastra.

In an earlier post, Aasan TR very clearly explains the Nadi Sastra. He explains the nature and why the Nadi Sastras of the Siddhas came into being. The innumerable Siddhas, coming out of their tapas, intended to lead mankind to a better future. Hence they wrote many scriptures including the Jothida Sastra. Jothidam is considered as the "eyes" of the Vedas.

It is amazing to be told that many decisions are made and determined for each individual while he/she is in the womb itself. This would include his/her lifespan; the career; his/her fortune; skills that would be acquired or come easily; his/her appearance; and final moment of death.

Lord Brahma determines one's fate and destiny with Lord Shiva's grace. Only the Siddhas have the ability to uncover this secret, what has been determined and kept a closely guarded secret of the Devas or Deva Ragasiyam by Brahma within the "four walls" of the womb. The most compassionate Siddhas make a deal with Brahma to reveal the secret just for the sake of mankind so that they would understand the whole process of death and birth and take steps to end this cycle of birth.

We are told that before revealing one's Jataka with precision, there is a need to ascertain the Karma accumulated by the individual. This is the reason all individuals are taken through a reading of their Karma Kandam even before the other chapters are revealed. The past is made known to them on the onset. After ascertaining the karma, he/she is told what has been destined for him by Brahma based on their karma.

Disclosure and eradication of one's karma is possible with the grace of the Siddhas. Aasan TR mentions the exponents and Gurus of Jothidam as 18 in numbers and list them as: Surya; Brahman; Veda Vyasa; Parasarar; Atri; Romagan; Vasishta; Maruchi; Bowlagar; Yevanar; Saunagar; Manu; Bhrigu; Janagar; Angirasar; Kasipar; Karthipar; and Naranan.

A thorough knowledge of astrology; proper study and analysis and understanding of how the planetary positions would affect the individual; and its impact on a seeker's life, help in determining what is in store for the seeker.

Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami in his KARMA AND REINCARNATION - An Inspired Talk, reveals about karma from the astrological aspect,

"Hindu astrology, or Jyotisha, details a real relation between ourselves and the geography of the solar system and certain star clusters, but it is not a cause-effect relation. Planets and stars don't cause or dictate karma. Their orbital relationships establish proper conditions for karmas to activate and a particular type of personality nature to develop. Jyotisha describes a relation of revealment: it reveals prarabdha karmic patterns for a given birth and how we will generally react to them (kriyamana karma). With astrological knowledge we are aware of our life’s karmic pattern and can thereby anticipate it wisely."

If the prediction denotes some form of mishap or unhappiness, the individual is told to carry out certain atonements or parikarams to appease the planets and overcome these adverse conditions that eventually brings a blessed life to the individual.

Hindu texts mention that there are various species of life forms beginning with the aquatics, and culminating in the human being and the celestials.

B.Kamalakkannan lists these in his "Footsteps of Saint Ramalingam", a Vanathi Pathippakam publication, as:

14 hundred thousand varieties of celestial beings; 9 hundred thousand varieties of human beings; 10 hundred thousand varieties of four legged animals; 10 hundred thousand varieties of birds; 11 hundred thousand varieties of reptiles; 10 hundred thousand varieties of aquatics; and 20 hundred thousand varieties in the vegetable kingdom.

From “ATMA” - “Reincarnation: The Soul’s Secret Journey”, The Bhaktivedanta Book Trust, The International Society For Krishna Consciousness, we gather more information on why there is a need for such an immense myriad in diversity of creation and life.

“The different categories of material bodies (species) exist because there are millions of categories of material desires. These different life forms are nothing more than machines designed by the material energy to fulfill different material desires.”

These life forms are there to fulfil the desires that keep constantly arising, providing an avenue for creation to carry out Erai's Divine Play.

As in "ATMA",

“Our entanglement in the material sphere is the result of an unending chain of actions and reactions developed in this and previous human lives. This is known in Sanskrit as karma, a law of nature analogous to the modern scientific principle of action and reaction”, 

Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami too relates karma with science.

"In physics - the study of energy and matter - Sir Isaac Newton postulated that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Push against a wall. Its material is molecularly pushing back with a force exactly equal to yours. In metaphysics, karma is the law that states that every mental, emotional and physical act, no matter how insignificant, is projected out into the psychic mind substance and eventually returns to the individual with equal impact."

Swamiji writes further,

"For, as we exist now is a sum total of all our past lives. In our present moment, our mind and body state is the cumulative result of the entire spectrum of our past lives."

To the question as to who monitors or keeps tab of the accounts and details of karma, there are several interesting and possible answers provided.

"Vinai" is an outcome of an action or doing. The present life is determined by the past actions. These actions are registered in the Akash were Erai's representatives (with the aid of a fail proof system in place that records, stores and discharges the appropriate results of these actions), discharge their duties without fail. Since young my parents have spoken of one Chitragupta who with his aids keeps tab of all our actions and eventually reports back to his superiors, the Almighty. The Chinese community too have a Kitchen God whom they feed with sweets in the believe that he would report back to his superiors sweet things about his subject once a year. And I was told that God delivers the life one deserves according to this report.

Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, Swamiji too speaks about these akashic records.

"The akashic memory in our higher chakras faithfully records the soul’s impressions during its series of earthly lives, and in the astral/mental worlds in - between earth existences."

The storehouse of these records as explained in “ATMA”,

“One personal form of God is the supersoul dwelling within the hearts of all living beings; witnessing every thought and action and awarding the living beings the result of their karma, arranging for them to accept an appropriate physical body lifetime after lifetime.”

Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami explains that ancient yogis, in psychically studying the time line of cause/effect, assigned three categories to karma - sanchita, the sum total of past karma yet to be resolved; prarabdha, that portion of sanchita karma being experienced in the present life; and finally Kriyamana, the third type, is karma you are presently creating.

From “ATMA”, further clarification on this concept in reference to lower-than-human life forms is given.

“Only the human species, however is subject to the subtle but exact law, for only in the human form does one have advanced intelligence and freedom of choice. In lower-than-human life forms the soul is covered by much grosser forms of mind and body; therefore the living beings within such bodies are totally under the control of nature. Because beasts, microbes, insects, and plants do nothing more than automatically serve their instincts, they are not held responsible for their activities. They do not incur karmic reactions.”

Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami in his KARMA AND REINCARNATION, explains further.

"Karma operates not only individually, but also in ever-enlarging circles of group karma where we participate in the sum karma of multiple souls. This includes family, community, nation, race and religion, even planetary group karma."

Swamiji reminds us that,

"The people who manifest your karma are also living through past karma and simultaneously creating future karma. Imagine how intricately interconnected all the cycles of karma are for our planet’s life forms."

Aasan TR explains the concept of "Ulvinai" in the following podcast. He refers to Valluvar who has written much about Ulvinai in his Kural. Nothing is more powerful than Vinai. Even when ways are sought to overcome one's karma, it would come stand in front and damper or obstruct his efforts. Ignorance and laziness will veil the seeker and prevent him from coming out of his delusion. That is the immense potential of karma and its consequences.

Simply said seeing a person is seeing karma in effect or action. Worldly life is living out a life of karma, a baggage that we have brought along with us, carried with us, laid out and spread before us. We go through the contents of this baggage, sorting out, arranging them to happen in chronological order and fulfilling the vasanas or desires till our last breath. To unload completely this baggage would be a humongous task, especially in one birth. One must have extreme determination or Vairagya and Atma Balam, to skim through this baggage, accomplish what needs to be done as soon as possible and head back for the place he had come from, now without any baggage. We come as a heavily laden luggage but should leave as a feather.

To come to an understanding and acceptance that what I am facing currently, good or bad, is all due to my past doings and karma, is itself a gift of Erai, his grace. To pursue this understanding of karma and find means to eradicate it should be our mission henceforth. We need to ensure that fresh karma is not accumulated further. For that we take the hand of the Siddhas, to help deliver us.

Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami encourages us to perform dharma and sadhana just like the Siddhas advocate,

"However, it must be understood that your past negative karma can be altered into a smoother, easier state through the loving, heart - chakra nature, through dharma and sadhana."

The Siddhas ask us to carry out extensive dharma and sadhana to counter the effects of karma. Tavayogi Thangarasan Adigal speaks about Vinai when people tell him their problems. He says that the reason they were going through these tough times was due to their Ulvinai. He also provides the solution. He ask that they pray (Potrungal). He also indicates whom to pray to. He says pray to the Siddhas (Siddhargalai Potrungal) that they should shower their grace and lead them from darkness to light. He provides them with a compilation of Siddha names that was all that was required to gain the grace of the Siddhas.

The only way to clear the karma is to seek divine intervention. The guru in the form of Siddhas are the ones to seek in this respect. Understand karma and plead to the Siddhas so that they would show a way out from our self made predicaments and problems. Prayers is the way besides performing charity, lighting lamps, worshipping in specific temples and conducting Yagams. Agathiyar showed me the way too to diffuse the karma. He set me on a journey and pilgrimage to temples where I was given the opportunity to perform prayers and do charity. During my pilgrimage to India, traveling to many places, I met many people, and learnt many things.

Towards helping humanity come to terms with their karma and helping them remove their karma, many saints have given us devotional hymns known as Padhigams. These were hymns sung by them in many real life situations where they pleaded to the most merciful Erai to soften, save, overcome and eradicate the sufferings of devotees.

Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami suggest we accept karma as lessons to be learnt, rather than fight it for it could could lead to more severe consequences. He forewarns us.

"In this highest sense, there is no good and bad karma; there is self created experience that presents opportunities for spiritual advancement. If we can't draw lessons from the karma, then we resist and/or resent it, lashing out with mental, emotional or physical force. The original substance of that karmic event is spent and no longer exists, but the current reaction creates a new condition of harsh karma."

Pattinathar accepted his fate when he was wrongly accused for theft of the jewelery at the palace and tied to a pole and tortured. Ramana and Yogi Ramsuratkumar accepted abuse from the local village thugs who broke into the ashram and picked up a fight on the streets, respectively. Tavayogi was abused verbally by a thug while waiting for a cab once. They all remained silent and chose not to react.

For those weak at heart and decide to take their own life's Swami sympathizes, since the soul then has a longer journey to cover.

"The Hindu also knows that death must come naturally, in its own course, and that suicide only accelerates the intensity of one’s karma, bringing a series of immediate lesser births and requiring several lives for the soul to return to the exact evolutionary point that existed at the moment of suicide, at which time the still-existing karmic entanglements must again be faced and resolved."

"There is a tendency to cry during times of personal crisis, “Why has God done this to me?” or “What did I do to deserve this?” While God is the creator and sustainer of the cosmic law of karma, He does not dispense individual karma. He does not produce cancer in one person’s body and develop Olympic athletic prowess in another’s. We create our own experiences. It is really an exercising of our soul’s powers of creation. Karma, then, is our best spiritual teacher. We spiritually learn and grow as our actions return to us to be resolved and dissolved."

Man's life as it is is too complicated. To fathom that that is not to be known needs a great amount of merit on our part as a seeker and a certain degree of knowledge, intelligence, and wisdom on the part of the Nadi reader and above all the full grace of the Siddhas.

Continuous efforts are required to monitor and appease and settle our dues. One has to understand the long standing of these karma that can stretch beyond the present and immediate past birth and into many births before that. Hence it is a laborious task taking control and dispensing the right remedy for our past karma and those taking place even at this present moment. But with the grace of the Siddhas we shall take hold of it. Yes. With the guru's arul or grace and Erai's Sitham or consent of Erai, we shall sail through this sea of birth.

Follow Thiruneelakandar Padhigam at https://www.dharisanam.com/pages/thiruneelakanda-pathigam

BEING INDIFFERENT

Aasan TR shares certain verses from Valluvar's Kural and quotes from other masters on how to face sorrows and calamities, sailing through rough times and eventually surviving these ordeals and becoming stronger from the experiences.

"Fear Not! Fear Not! I am within you my child! Fear Not! I am your guru!I am your father! I am your mother! I am your Deivam!" - Agathiyan

BRINGING CHEER TO ANOTHER

NS Shaan noted a good sign during the many conversations in AVM's Whatsapp group. He posted the following, "After observing that there is some kind of miraculous healing that happens, whenever, someone posts (in the group) regarding the welfare of a patient or problem, the feedback is always positive. From a metaphysics point of view, what has happened is ; 

1) The Divine Grace of Lord Agathiyar whom bestows His Grace upon our Sincere Request!

2) US...yes, the people in AVM itself,...you, me, everyone of us...Why, the Collective Consciousness of our group is very strong. Therefore, as an experiment, I have started to pray for all of us, every morning, in all areas such as health, wealth, longevity, joy, happiness, knowledge and spiritual bliss. If all of us to the same and use the power of Collective Consciousness....and with the Grace of Agathiyar Ayya...who knows, What we can achieve......A prayer is Free, and we have nothing to lose. Try it...Om Agathisaya Namaha."

This was exactly what Suren told me too the night before NS Shaan's observation, that he is going to pray for the well being of all beginning from that moment since he saw significant signs of recovery (after a plea for prayers in the group) in his uncle's health who was warded in ICU a few days before.

                    

At the Sri Brahmapureeswarar Temple, Thirupattur while me and the rest of AVM family were gathered at Maharishi Patanjali's samadhi reciting the names of the Siddhas, a priest motions Bala Chandran Gunasekaran to hurry up and go over to the Brahma Sampath Gowri's sannadhi for her darshan before they close. We finish reciting the Siddhar Potri and leaving Dyalan to continue with his meditation, we move to Ambal's sannadhi. There a priest who was familiar to us through the numerous video uploads on YouTube by visiting devotees at this temple, decides to teach us a universal prayer for healing all sorrows and wiping away the tears and fears. The moment he beckoned us to rub our palms together and spread them out in front of us and leads us on with the universal prayer, we could immediately feel a spur of energy rising in our palms. It was truly a wonderful gesture on the part of the priest to educate us on this new technique of meditation for the well being of humanity and all of creation. There was no reason for him to pay attention to us and take time off to teach us as he was rushing to close the temple for the day.

We understand now that the idea in us being here is not to feed ourselves but instead to bring cheer to another, in whatever small way we can. Agathiyar, Avvai, Valluvar and the Siddhas have stressed since time immemorial that both dharma and sadhana are required for the gates to heaven or "Vanavar Naadu" to open; to step onto the realm of Erai or enter the kingdom of God. Besides engaging in prayers (that too has to be for the well-being of others), carrying out social and charitable activities catering to the needs of the unfortunate ones will go a long way in bringing change in the lives of many. 

Agathiyar says that prayer for oneself will be fruitful but might take time to materialize; but prayers for another will be effective and take place faster. The best prayer is in a congregation or kutu prathanai were the combined efforts, thoughts and prayers moves even the mighty mountain.

At AVM towards the end of our prayers, the "Rajah kudumbam" of five, are always given the honor to lead us in a beautiful universal prayer for the well being of all of humanity and god's creation. 

AVM through its service orientated arm Thondu Seivom and financial arm Amudhasurabhi, has successfully carried out several activities and charities in the past year and continues to do so into the new year. 

Recently AVM contributed towards helping to cover a very small fraction of the costs in carrying out the annadhanam or feeding the devotees at the Thirukalyana Vizha for Agathiyar and Lobhama at the Sri Agastheeswara and Akilandeswari Temple at Karuvalarchery some 13 kms from Kumbakonam, on 8 February 2017, a program undertaken by Thiru M. Sankar of the Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, Kumbakonam.

Puja at the Sri Agastheeswara and Akilandeswari Temple at Karuvalarchery. Photos courtesy of M.Sankar

On the local front, a very small contribution was made for annadhanam too during the Guru Puja Vizha for Sri Jaganatha Swamigal at the Sivalayam in Tapah, on 10 February 2017.

This two components, sadhana and dharma will become the two eyes of AVM. AVM will bring hope, cheer and the gifts of life to the unfortunate. 

ABAYAM (FEAR NOT)

Agathiyan - the most compassionate mother, father, guru and Deivam. Agathiyan the saviour. Agathiyan who dwells in our hearts and thoughts. Come take refuge in Agathiyan. Know that there is a reason for your birth. Know that the your life is determined and dictated by certain factors. Take the hands of Agathiyan. He will put you on the right track. He will educate you on the mysteries of life. He will help you bring changes in your life and those close to you. He will uplift you and all those close to you to a higher, more meaningful and blissful life.

"Fear Not! Fear Not! I am within you my child! Fear Not! I am your guru!I am your father! I am your mother! I am your Deivam!" - Agathiyan

Bringing us to his fold, Agathiyan assures us all shall be fine. Agathiyan grants us his Moola Mantra, a panacea for all sufferings and illnesses through his Nadappu Aasi Nigandu Naadi.

It is said that once a devotee is consumed by the love of Erai or his Guru, he begins to churn out melodies, songs, poems. The bliss in him is translated as melodies and chants. The songs become an expression of his state of joy and bliss. Saints having reached various states of bliss have left behind extensive amounts of songs and literature for their followers and the public to cherish.

In the following traditional song the late Pithukuli Murugados brings to life through his devotion and singing talent this heart-rending melody.

Manikavasagar gave us Lord Shiva's Sivapuranam and many other gems to cherish all life long.

Devaraya Swamigal gave us the classic Kandhar Sasthi Kavasam popularized by the Sulamangalam Sisters. 

Santananda Swamigal of Skandasramam, Salem penned a lovely song on the Goddess seeking her to protect her devotees as a shield and force field. He wrote another similar number on Lord Muruga too.

Arunagiri gave us many compositions including the Kandhar Anubhothi.

Ramalinga Adigal has given us six huge volumes of soul enriching songs covering a wide range of deities and culminating on Arutperunjhoti Andavar.

Kunangkudi Mastaan penned a wonderful song Agathiyar Satagam on Agathiyar seeking his grace.

Dr VM Jayapalan of Bangalore has written a wonderful song on Agathiyar and the Siddhas, seeking Agathiyar to protect and care for his devotees.

THIRUVADI PUGALCHI

http://www.vallalarspace.org/user/c/thiruarutpa1001

SIVARATHRI

Last night Sanjiv Malhotra from New Delhi wanted to know more about the upcoming Sivarathri prayers, the dos and don'ts. He was hoping Aasan TR could bring us a Nadi reading from Mahamuni Agathiyar. I put his wish to Aasan TR in private. This morning after his prayers in the early morning hours of three, Agathiyar graciously blessed us all explaining about Sivarathri and its significance in the Jeeva Nigandu Suksha Nadi!

Briefly Agathiyar ask us to recite hymns from the Thevaram, the Sivapuranam, Ramalinga Adigalar's Mahadeva Maalai, Parasiva Vilakam, and Thiruvadi Pugalchi; Stay awake, sit upright and meditate on Siva. In preparation for a meditative state at night, we are required to eat only once, consuming good fresh wholesome raw food, during the day.  We are required to reduce all kinds of activities and rituals during this day.

Siddha Heartbeat takes this opportunity to thank Aasan TR for sharing these and many other messages from Mahamuni so that we could adopt these measures and improve the quality of our devotion. 

SACRED REVELATIONS 4 - DEATHLESSNESS

Aasan TR brings Bharathi's prayers to Vaalaikumari or Manonmani to our attention and goes on to explain the Siddha's concept of deathlessness that Bharathi too took up.

எனக்கு முன்னே சித்தர் பல ரிருந்தாரப்பா!
யானும்வந்தே நொரு சித்தனிந்த நாட்டில்
மனத்தினிலே நின்றிதனை யெழுது கின்றாள்
மனோன்மணியென் மாசக்தி வையத் தேவி

தினத்தினிலே புதிதாகப் பூத்து நிற்கும்
செய்யமணித் தாமரை நேர் முகத்தால் காதல்
வனந்தனிலே தன்னையொரு மலரைப் போலும்
வண்டினைப்போ லெனையுமுரு மாற்றிவிட்டாள்

தீராதகாலமெலாந் தானு நிற்பாள்
தெவிட்டாத இன்னமுதின் செவ்வி தழ்ச்சி
நீராகக் கனலாக வானாக் காற்றா
நிலமாக வடிவெடுத்தாள்நி லத்தின் மீது

போராக நோயாக மரணமாகப்
போந்திதனை யழித்துடுவாள் புனர்ச்சி கொண்டால்
நேராக மோனமகானந்த வாழ்வை
நிலத்தின் மிசை யளித்தமரத் தன்மை ஈவாள்

மாகாளி பராசக்தி உமையா ளன்னை
வைரவிகங் காளி மனோன் மணிமா மாயி
பாகார்ந்த தேமோழியாள் படருஞ் செந்தீ
பாய்ந்திடுமோர் விழியுடையாள் பரம சக்தி

ஆகார மளித்திடுவாள் அறிவு தந்தாள்
ஆதிபரா சக்தியென தமிர்த்ப் பொய்கை
சோகா டவிக்கு ளெனைப் புக வொட்டாமல்
துய்ய செழுந் தேன்போலே கவிதை சொல்வாள்

மரணத்தை வெல்லும் வழி 

பொன்னார்ந்த திருவடியைப் போற்றி யிங்கு
புகலுவேன் யானறியு முண்மை யெல்லாம்
முன்னோர்க லெவ்வுயிருங் கடவுலென்றார்
முடிவாக அவ்வுரையை நான் மேற்கொண்டேன்

அன்னோர்க ளுரைத்த தன்றிச் செய்கையில்லை
அத்வைத நிலை கண்டால் மரணமுண்டோ?
முன்னோர் களுரைத்த பல சித்தரெல்லாம்
முடிந்திட்டார், மடிந்திட்டார், மண்ணாய் விட்டார்

பொந்திலே யுள்ளாராம், வனத்தி லெங்கோ
புதர்களிலே யிருப்பாராம், பொதியை மீதே
சந்திலே சவுத்தியிலே நிழலைப் போல
சற்றே யங் கங்கே தென் படுகின் றாராம்

நொந்த புண்ணைக் குத்துவதிற் பயனொன்றில்லை
நோவாலே மடிந்திட்டான் புத்தன் கண்டீர்
அந்தணனாம் சங்கரா சார்யன் மாண்டான்
அதற்கடுத்த இராமா நுஜனும் போனான்

சிலுவையிலே அடியுண்டு யேசு செத்தான்
தீயதொரு கணையாலே கண்ணன் மாண்டான்
பலர்புகழு இராமனுமே யாற்றில் வீழ்ந்தான்
பார்மீது நான்சாகா திருப்பேன் காண்பீர்!

மலிவுகண்டீ ரிவுண்மை பொய் கூறேன்யான்
மடிந்தாலும் பொய்கூறேன் மானு டர்க்கே
நலிவுமில்லை, சாவுமில்லை, கேளீர், கேளீர்!
நாணத்தைக் கவலையினைச் சினத்தைப் பொய்யை

அசுரர்களின் பெயர்

அச்சத்தை வேட்கைதனை அழித்துவிட்டால்
அப்போது சாவுமங்கே அழிந்து போகும்
மிச்சத்தை பின்சொல்வேன், சினத்தை முன்னே
வென்றிடுவீர்மே தினியில் மரணமில்லை

துச்சமெனப் பிறர் பொருளைக் கருதலாலே
சூழ்ந்ததெலாங் கடவுலேனச் சுருதி சொல்லும்
நிச்சயமாம் ஞானத்தை மறத்த லாலே.
நேர்வதே மானுடர்க்குச் சினத்தீ நெஞ்சில்.

It would not be an overstatement to mention that just as Tavayogi showed me Agathiyar, Aasan TR showed me Siddha Bharathi.

MORE FROM BHARATHI

Bharathi has inspired many a singer and musician, bringing his compositions alive and to the reaches of new generation.

A good effort was made to bring Bharathi's life to the silver screen some years back.

SACRED REVELATIONS 3 - ON THE IMPERMANENCE OF LIFE

Is all that is seen a mirage? In this post Aasan TR brings us a wonderful song of Bharathiya "Ulagathai Nokki Vinavuthal" that states the impermanence state of all things on the face of this earth.

நிற்பதுவே, நடப்பதுவே, பறப்பதுவே,
நீங்களெல்லாம் சொற்பனந்தானோ?
பல தோற்ற மயக்கங்களோ?

கற்பதுவே, கேட்பதுவே, கருதுவதே,
நீங்களெல்லாம் அற்ப மாயைகளோ?
உம்முள் ஆழ்ந்த பொருளில்லையோ?

வானகமே, இளவெயிலே, மரச்செறிவே,
நீங்களெல்லாம் கானலின் நீரோ?
வெறும் காட்சிப் பிழைதானோ?

போனதெல்லாம் கனவினைப்போற்
புதைந்தழிந்தே போனதனால்
நானுமோர் கனவோ?
இந்த ஞாலமும் பொய்தானோ?

காலமென்றே ஒரு நினைவும்
காட்சியென்றே பல நினைவும்
கோலமும் பொய்களோ?
அங்குக் குணங்களும் பொய்களோ?

சோலையிலே மரங்களெல்லாம் 

தோன்றுவதோர் விதையிலென்றால் 

சோலை பொய்யாமோ?

இதைச் சொல்லோடு சேர்ப்பாரோ?

காண்பவெல்லாம் மறையுமென்றால்
மறைந்ததெல்லாம் காண்பமன்றோ?

வீண்படு பொய்யிலே 

நித்தம் விதி தொடர்ந்திடுமோ?

காண்பதுவே உறுதிகண்டோம் 

காண்பதெல்லாம் உறுதியில்லை 

காண்பது சத்தியாம்  

இந்த காட்சி நித்தியமாம் 

SACRED REVELATIONS 2 - WHERE IS GOD?

In this discourse "Kadavul Enge Erukiraar?" or "Where is God?" between a Guru and disciple, Bharathi asked us to see all as one, and not to differentiate. Aasan TR explains this beautifully.

Vairamuthu on Bharathi

See http://professormira.com/subramania-bharati/

BHARATHI ON VAALAI

மங்கியற்தோர் நிலவினிலே கனவிலிது கண்டேன்
வயதுபதி னாறிருக்கும் இளவயது மங்கை
பொங்கிவரும் பெருநிலவு போன்றவொளி முகமும்
புன்னகையின் புதுநிலவும் போற்றவருந் தோற்றம்

துங்கமணி மின்போலும் வடிவத்தாள் வந்து
தூங்காதே யெழுந்தென்னைப் பாரென்று சொன்னாள்.
அங்கதனிற் கண்விழித்தேன் அடடாவோ! அடடா!
அழகென்னும் தெய்வந்தான் அதுவென்றே அறிந்தேன். 1

யோகந்தான் சிறந்ததுவோ தவம் பெரிதோ என்றேன்;
யோகமே தவம் தவமே யோக மென உரைத்தாள்.
‘ஏகமோ பொருளன்றி இரண்டாமோ’ என்றேன்;
‘இரண்டுமாம், ஒன்றுமாம், யாவுமாம்’ என்றாள்.
‘தாகமறிந் தீயுமருள் வான்மழைக்கே யுண்டோ
தாகத்தின் துயர்மழைதான் அறிந்திடுமோ?’ என்றேன்
‘வேகமுடன் அன்பினையே வெளிப்படுத்தா மழைதான்.
விருப்புடனே பெய்குவது வேறாமோ?’ என்றாள். 2

‘காலத்தின் விதி மதியைக் கடந்திடுமோ?’ என்றேன்
‘காலமே மதியினுக்கோர் கருவியாம்’ என்றாள்.
‘ஞாலத்தில் விரும்பியது நண்ணுமோ?’ என்றேன்;
‘நாலிலே ஒன்றிரண்டு பலித்திடலாம்?’ என்றாள்
‘ஏலத்தில் விடுவதுண்டோ எண்ணத்தை?’ என்றேன்.
‘எண்ணினால் எண்ணியது நண்ணுங்காண்’ என்றாள்.
மூலத்தைச் சொல்லவோ வேண்டாமோ?’ என்றேன்
முகத்திலருள் காட்டினாள் மோகமது தீர்ந்தேன்.

SACRED REVELATIONS 1 - VAASI

Siddha Heartbeat takes pride in bringing you a series of talks on Agathiyar, the Siddhas and their Nadis. We are extremely thankful to Nadi Guru TR for bringing out these treasures and enlightening us.

This episode is regarding Bharathi's guru. He meets Kulla Swami while in Pondicherry. Bharathi gives chase as the Swami dashes off. He finally catches hold of him in a torned down and abandoned house, seeking an upadesam. The Swami shows him the remaining portion of the wall, the sun and shows him his reflection and that of the sun in the well. "That is my upadesa for you", saying thus he leaves immediately. Stop all talk and begin to experience Vaasi, was the message to Bharathi.

பக்கத்து வீடிடிந்து சுவர்கள் வீழ்ந்த
பாழ்மனையொன்  றிருந்ததங்கே
பரம யோகி ஒக்கத்தன் அருள்வழியால் என்னை நோக்கி
ஒரு குட்டிச் சுவர் காட்டிப் பரிதி காட்டி
அக்கணமே கிணற்றுளதன் விம்பங் காட்டி
"அறிதிகொலோ !" எனக் கேட்டான்
"அறிந்தேன்" என்றேன்
மிக்கமகிழ் கொண்டவனும் சென்றான்
யானும் வேதாந்த மரத்திலொரு வேரைக் கண்டேன்.

தேசிகன் கை காட்டி யெனக்குறைத்த செய்தி
செந்தமிழில் உலகத்தார்க் குணர்த்து கின்றேன்
"வாசியை நீ கும்பகத்தால் வலியக் கட்டி
மண்போலே சுவர்போலே வாழ்தல் வேண்டும்
தேசுடைய பரிதியுருக்  கிணற்றினுள்ளே
தெரிவதுபோல் உனக்குள்ளே சிவனைக் காண்பாய்
பேசுவதில் பயனில்லை அனுபவத்தால்
பேரின்பம் எய்துவதே ஞானம்" என்றான். 

SONGS IN PRAISE OF VAALAIKUMARI

Vaalai paadalgal from Shanmugam Avadaiyappa

AGATHIYAR'S GRACE

Siddha Heartbeat takes pride in posting KP's account of her recent visit to India. She travelled from South Africa to be with Agathiyar during his recent Jayanthi and Guru Puja Vizha.

We arrived in Coimbatore as the sun was hurriedly bidding farewell. Leaving the airport, we headed towards the lush, green, inviting Nilgiri Hills. We chose to stay at a place close to the ashram to accommodate frequent back and forth trips. The place was nestled in the serene, tranquil greens in the Nilgiris. Once again, I foolishly thought choosing that place of stay was our choice. I still smile in surrender when my mind goes there.

It was a fairly long drive from the airport. Passing through Coimbatore we had to leave the flatter main roads behind and begin the climb into the meandering hills. There were curves and bends, narrow roads, speeding cars, buses and trucks. The ascending drive was much longer thanI anticipated. I scanned the area eagerly hoping to spot the resort so I could relax at the thought of arriving at our destination. That was not fruitful. While we were aware that the resort was in the Nilgiri’s, we were unaware of how deep into the forest it was located. The curves and bends began to create discomfort. The cars, trucks and buses hurtling downwards (as we ascended) began to feel like dodging bullets. The steep gradient with sharp vertical drops on either side became a little intimidating. I anxiously pondered, “Where is this place, where are you taking us?” (directing the question to Agathiyar). Ah! And there it was… a board, which answered the question, “The Lungs of the World”, it read. That made sense. The entire area boasted it’s wealth of high rise trees, dense greenery and spectacular landscape. Perhaps my lungs did need a breath or two of fresh air, perhaps I did need the gentle, soothing, calming energy of the great outdoors. I did have a crazy, stressful year with almost no opportunity for relaxation. Perhaps it was the prescription I needed.

We arrived at the resort some time after nightfall. We were still a little dizzy from the upward, meandered drive as we disembarked from the car but there was relief. The resort was deep in the forest around trees, rivers and many forest dwellers. We concluded the check-in formalities and made our way to our cottage through the beautiful forest. We were greeted and welcomed warmly by a troop of excited monkeys. They had kind and friendly eyes and appeared to be overjoyed at having guests in their home. Huge trees stood proudly and towered over the little resort buildings. Jackfruit trees showed off their plentiful fruits. Other trees filled the air with their sweet and calming fragrance. Plants, flowers, foliage, shrubs and singing insects appeared to enjoy a healthy and well-adjusted existence in and around the resort. The place was beautiful but I silently wondered if it was perhaps too strong a prescription. Nevertheless, we were already there and it was by then too late to question my “doctor”.

The following morning we eagerly made our way to the Kallar ashram for the morning prayer. We looked forward to going home; to prostrating before our father and the 18 siddhas, to beholding the new buildings and reconnecting with swami (Thavayogi Thangarasan Adigal), Mataji and soul mates. The morning prayer involved many offerings. It began outside before a fire and proceeded to the meditation hall where Agathiyar stood in all his magnificence. There were many priests and they performed numerous offerings. Loyal devotees filled the room, all wanting a glimpse or a good photo of their beloved. There was mantra chanting, singing and musical accompaniments. The collective divine consciousness in the room was notably uplifting. The enthralling sounds from the nadaswaram vibrated through every atom in the room. It felt exhilarating; a privileged to be there and to experience. There was much happening at the time but I wondered if it was possible to quieten the mind and step into his space. A space where nobody else existed, no activity, no sounds. Gently closing the eyes, perhaps a little focus and concentration. For just a few brief moments, if silence could pervade? An experience to be understood only by oneself and a significant other. A few brief moments, alone with the great one… I snatched the opportunity…priceless.

The following day began with a slow start. Some things were accomplished that morning after which I decided to use my prevailing lethargy to treat my lungs to some fresh, fragrant Niligiri air and feast my eyes on the breath taking panoramic view around us. I had come to India with a litany of questions and was inquisitively seeking answers, guidance, reasons and knowledge. Needless to say, I characteristically, was not going to leave without achieving that goal. I reclined into a chair on the balcony, two floors above, and as was prescribed began to allow the “treatment” to take it’s course. I gazed at the vast beauty framed before me. The trees close by stood content and lush and the ones in the distance spectacularly decked the rolling hills for as far as the eyes could see. I gently closed my eyes, as they grew heavy. It was not long before I found myself slowly drifting towards relaxation. Except for the chattering of insects and birds, there was stillness and tranquility. I began to feel re-oxygenated, almost intravenously. I allowed layers of stress around my cells to dissolve and melt away. A feeling of sleepy, dreamy, lightness followed. I tapped into that space and gently permitted my thoughts to roam wherever it chose; before I guided myself into meditation. 

I opened my eyes after some time, and was attracted to a dark, heavy hanging cloud floating above the hill in the distance. My thoughts were still being processed at breakneck speed; as I observed the dark, mysterious cloud slink away beyond the hill. When it had faded completely, the hill was embraced with a sheet of light – ness. A magnificent show indeed. I wished it would not end. However, as with all things earthly, nothing lasts forever. A playful monkey who arrived unannounced onto the Jackfruit tree a few meters from where I sat ensured that. It grabbed and broke off a piece of the dried fruit and began to merrily, relish it. It gazed at me with warm, kind eyes while it ate heartily. It allowed a few moments to be observed before it briskly leaped off onto another tree, and another, until it caught up with others. When it was out of sight, my attention was drawn back to my relaxation and my thoughts. I felt rested and surprised. “What just happened?”, I questioned. It felt like some old files were deleted, new files uploaded, and a re-boot transpired. “Did that even make sense?, I questioned further. Mysteriously I did appear to have gleaned some insights to my questions following that experience.

The rolling hills in the Nilgiri’s

The evening and dinner passed as expected. We enjoyed a short night stroll and returned to the room to settle in for the night. The following day was the guru pooja, and my excitement mounted. Falling asleep was a struggle. Later that night, my daughter and I were dealt a sudden blow of illness. The hours dragged on painfully as we spiraled swiftly under it’s attack. I was extremely concerned about my daughter’s ability to cope until sunrise; which appeared to never come. The attack grew progressively ferocious and took us down with ruthless violence. My husband, fortunately, spared from it, was to manage the situation and the two of us. 

The break of dawn saw the hotel staff and management rallying around to get us medical attention. Our driver (Balu) arrived promptly to rush us to the hospital. We dragged ourselves into the car and began the arduous journey downwards, around what appeared to be the most unforgiving Nilgiri bends. My thoughts ran rampant and my concern for my daughter intensified. We reached the hospital around 10am. There was paperwork, which the compassionate Balu kindly took care of. There was a consultation with an elderly, wise doctor. There were prescriptions. We were promptly warded and hooked onto dreaded drips. Admittedly, it was the most effective course of action. 

But what of the guru pooja?

The intravenous impact of the drip produced swift results and as I regained strength I began to fixate on the guru pooja. I focused on the flow of the drip and prayed it would end so we could still get to the ashram, although we were advised by the doctor to spend the night in the hospital. The time strolled on, 11am, 12am, 1pm, 2pm…the drip dripped on, drip by drip by drip. I grew impatient. I manipulated the drip myself and increased the speed of the flow. It did not achieve much as it was approaching 3pm and most of the day had already passed. By that time we were feeling significantly better. When we did arrive at the ashram later that day, the pooja was nearing it’s end. Although I had not been at the pooja I knew the whole time we were not alone. Understandably he had to be at the pooja as well. He once revealed to me in a nadi reading that he is always in front of me, hence I could be anywhere and he would be there too. 

The weekend passed and we moved on from the resort in the Nilgiri’s. 

However, worthy of mention; the welcoming party at the resort in the Nilgiri’s, at the time of our arrival were not just the warm, friendly monkeys. My husband informed me some days after we arrived back home that a green snake, approximately half a meter long strolled along with us as we made our way to our cottage, before it headed off into the greens. Thankfully, unbelievably, my daughter and I were completely oblivious to it. 

The Winds of Change

We had originally planned to spend approximately 2 weeks in Kallar post the pooja. I intended to spend a few days visiting temples and special places around Coimbatore but I was unsure where to begin. I did however know exactly where I could source that information; swami, (Thavayogi Thangarasan Adigal). I was certain that where he guided me to would be where I needed to go. 

We left the hotel around 5am one morning and made our way to Konganar Siddha’s cave. A beautiful day was still awakening when we arrived at the foothills of the siddha’s abode. Balu led the way and we followed. There was a narrow track with sporadic arrows guiding the path. It was a fairly gentle climb of approximately 2km. The cave itself lied within a massive rock. It was a privilege to behold and physically experience such a place; one sanctified by severe austerity, penance, sacrifice, meditation and other spiritual disciplines. It was blissfully peaceful with amazing panoramic views. I pondered over the siddha’s generosity and kindness to allow us to visit that special place and was sure that each person fortunate enough to find him/herself at his “door” would leave with a spiritual gift and blessing unique for them.

We were making our way down when Balu decided that we should stop by at the small dwelling we had passed on our way up. We heard voices, that of people talking as we got closer. We were welcomed by three temple priests. They explained that it was an auspicious day, hence they were performing an abishekim for the siddha (Konganar) and promptly invited us to stay and participate. Except for them, we were the only others there. We were invited into the small shrine, a short distance from the great siddha and requested to sit. A young priest continued the morning abishekim and offered us the opportunity to meditate; which we gladly accepted. It was a remarkable experience. It was gratifying being there, being invited to mediate, and to receive the great siddha’s darshan. We were bidding farewell, when one of the kind souls rushed over with blessed flowers, limes and ash. In addition to that he presented us with a blessed framed photograph of all 18 siddhas. I was beyond surprised, speechless actually. I accepted it gratefully and tried to suppress my disbelief to allow my gratitude to surface. I am uncertain if it is common practice to present all visitors with such a blessing, but it is for me, always of significant value. There are many things in life we may be able to buy, but I am more grateful for the things that find or seek me. I stared at the picture and broke a smile at a thought. Agathiyar already lives with us, but perhaps he got lonely and wanted his friends to come over. No explanation was necessary. Siddhas are welcome in our home at anytime. The siddhas are now beside Agathiyar in our home, and they make a more complete picture; all together, as one. 

Our journey continued to Arulmigu Subramanyaswamy Temple, Sivanmalai, Arulmigu Subramanya Swamy Temple, Chennimalai, and the Natadreeswarar Temple. Each of these temples had it’s own special appeal. We visited each of them with ease where there were no queues or hastening which enabled us to concentrate and appreciate the experience as well as our prayers. 

Having completed that mission we returned to Kallar the following day, to swami’s (Thavayogi Thangarasan Adigal) and Mataji’s warm embrace. It was another beautiful day in the foothills of the magical Nilgiri’s. By that time the pooja visitors had left and the ashram had returned to it’s daily activities. Our plans had changed unexpectedly and we were going to leave Coimbatore earlier than we had originally planned. I needed to share that news with swami and appreciate the remaining time to be spent at the ashram. There was also that small matter of a nadi reading that swami had promised, before my departure. 

We settled down next to swami and it was not long before our conversation travelled far into the distance. It was most enlightening. The conversation took us far and wide. To my surprise, in our conversation swami illuminated some of the questions on my list. We listened attentively as the conversation trickled sweetly from one petal to the next; when suddenly, he came to a grinding halt. “When is the next new moon day?” he enquired unexpectedly. We had no idea. We had been travelling for some days and by that time had little idea of what the day, date or time was. He explained that he wanted to perform something. I had no idea what it was but my eyes lit up and my excitement knew no bounds. He called out for Jyothi. “When is the next new moon?”, he enquired again. Jyothi was uncertain but dashed off to find out. He shared that he could only perform what was on his mind on a new moon day. My excitement plummeted to the ground with a mammoth thud. Oh well, I thought, there was at least a moment of sheer excitement at the possibility. He resumed talking, going back where he had stopped. Jyothi returned, “The next new moon is tomorrow”, he confirmed. Swami smiled with satisfaction at hearing that “WHAT?”, I shrieked within myself. “What were the chances?”, I thought in complete disbelief. Swami continued to smile warmly, blissfully, unsurprised. There were many instances during my interactions with him when I entertained the perception that Agathiyar himself was communicating; was that instance one of them? I could not contain my excitement for “tomorrow”. That was some flawless synchronicity. I held onto the knowledge and wisdom he imparted that day and was grateful for the little slice of quality time with him; uninterrupted. He confirmed that it was strangely unusual that there were no visitors or phone calls during that time which enabled us to talk. However, what about that small matter of the nadi reading I enquired of swami with much hope. “In January”, he smiled, disarmingly. Something had changed. The winds of change had blown. 

“Tomorrow” arrived and the day did not disappoint. It exceeded my expectations. I have previously experienced and enjoyed “out of this world” grace from Agathiyar and the siddhas but that day brought me closer to gratitude and appreciation. There was/is no appropriate means to reciprocate. There is no equal to reciprocate. There is no better to reciprocate. The priceless treasure I left with that day is to, and will, unquestionably journey with me into my next life. 

In Search of….

In the days that followed, I was carried off further by the winds of change, or was it by the hand of something greater? We had left Coimbatore. The timing appeared to be mysteriously perfect. I received a tap in the form of messages from one of Agathiyar's trusted and loyal devotees, Shanga from Malaysia. Some time ago we had spoken about the nadi reading using the thumbprint and he had then advised me to have mine done. Now that I was in India, Shanga thought he should remind me of that. I was experiencing some trepidation around it and convinced myself that it may not materialize as I did not have an appointment with a reader and I knew that would be difficult to arrange at short notice. Shanga however, was committed to make it happen. He was not dissuaded. On the contrary, he appeared to be on a mission. Within a few hours he (Shanga) unbelievably had secured an appointment with a nadi reader. I was amazed, words failed me. My anxiety grew. Shanga assured me there was nothing to be worried about. I turned to Shan aiya. He encouraged and supported me to go for it. And so I did…Shanga’s mission went into action.

We met the nadi reader late in the afternoon. He had travelled most of that day (approximately 6 hours) to meet with us to do my reading. That was inconceivable. On discovering that, I firstly could not understand why he would travel most of that day just to do a reading for an unknown person who did not have an appointment and secondly I began to feel pangs of guilt that he had to be inconvenienced in that way. Perhaps Shanga knew people in high places. Perhaps the reader knew Shanga well and it was a favour to him. That however, was the first indication that these events were possibly the hand of something greater. 

We began with my prayers before pursuing the search about my life. Predictably my levels of anxiety and discomfort began to escalate. The process was lengthy. Time sped on. There was still no sign of my leaf. The reader was not discouraged; he happily continued the quest. My modest understanding of the process indicated that it was unusually long. I began to entertain thoughts that perhaps the mission was not sanctioned after all. A sense of relief went coursing through me. Perhaps it was not meant to be or the timing was not quite right. Perhaps …he was testing something…perhaps my patience. Shortly after that realization around my patience, my leaf presented itself. I had to swiftly reframe my thoughts. I had to accept that the search was approved hence the reading was meant to be and the timing was correct. That was simple enough. We were by then well into the night. It was decided that we re-convene the following morning to continue the mission.

We resumed around 11am the following day. It was acknowledged that my leaf was written by Agathiyar himself. The reading clearly stated that I had come in “search” with questions and was seeking answers. I had indeed. It promised to reveal them. It confirmed that I was privy to the information held in the leaf only at that point in time. It revealed and confirmed many truths, some I had been aware of and many I was oblivious to. Insights and knowledge around remaining questions were miraculously revealed. It was alot to process all at once.

We then arrived at the door of remedies (parikaram). First and foremost I was requested in the reading to worship the palm leaf in a special prayer. He positioned the “palm leaf” as my guru but I was more engrossed on the one who had written the leaf. I was asked to do a guru poojai with 5 specified items (and many little items such as grains etc), as 5 separate offerings. The reader diligently read on. My attention was held back by something else he had already mentioned. He stopped unexpectedly, and exclaimed, “ It says you must do it now”. It takes a few seconds before I catch up to that. I requested that he repeat what he had said. “It says you must do the guru poojai now”. My brain shifted gears, I was soon in reverse. I was wondering if we were in real time or …which time zone exactly? “Now!”, as in this moment. “What does that mean?” I whispered softly desperately attempting to conceal my ignorance. “It is written here, it says you must do this pooja and make this offering now, today”. That’s what I thought I heard him say. I had heard correctly. That was the second indication that there may have been the hand of something greater. By that time I was having ridiculous thoughts of bumping into something while in reverse. The nadi reader then threw me another challenge. “It says you must go to Agasthiyampalli, light a ghee lamp there and simply meditate in front of him, don’t pray, no thoughts, just sit with him and mediate.” I tried to get my mind around that, when he added, “It says you must go now, today, after the guru pooja.” I was discovering a new level of speechless. I had no words to articulate a question or questions. How could these requests realistically be achieved, now or today, I wondered. I had come face to face with an ancient documented reading that was informing me to perform certain activities, at that particular time (in the present). A reading that was unquestionably confident that I would rendezvous at that place at that specific time. That was the third indication…. . The reading also stipulated four other temple visits where specific offerings had to be made. Those temples were 6-10 hours away from where we were located.

In addition to the prescribed remedies mentioned in the reading, I had to receive a certain something from the jeeva nadi/nadi reader; which miraculously, swami (Thavayogi) had given to me a few days earlier. Could that explain why a reading with him did not take place or was not deemed necessary? From that two more pressing questions emerged, “Was swami talking with me when he said he would give me something on the new moon day and was it actually him who gave it to me the following day? That was the fourth indication …. . 

The reading was done; but there was no relief. I felt more overwhelmed and clouded than before. Unpacking my long reading had ushered in the sunset. The cheerful nadi reader kindly showed us (my husband and I) into an adjoining prayer room to allow us to offer our thanks for being blessed with a reading. As I neared the entrance to the room I felt magnetically pulled in. It was a beautiful prayer room. It felt calming, embracing, and blissful; like a little piece of heaven. I surrendered to it’s invite. The entire front wall of the room graced two magnificient (almost life size), pictures. One of serene Lord Shiva and another of our dear father Agathiyar. A shelf like structure in front of the pictures, approximately a meter off the ground proudly held up Lord Ganesha, mother shakti and a granite representation of Agathiyar. They were adorned with beautiful fresh flowers and the senses did not miss the mild fragrance of incense. I realized I had made myself comfortable on the ground at the feet of Lord Shiva. 

Our prayers were done…and the winds of change had blown, again. I was now firmly on a different trajectory.

The nadi reader returned; at which point a serious discussion around the poojas, temple visits, driving plan etc. followed. It was already a little after 5pm. The discussion grew more serious. I began to see possibilities. The pooja that had to happen “now” required numerous items, which had to be purchased. “But wait, wait”, halted the nadi reader suddenly, and swiftly left the room. He returned promptly with a source of reference to confirm if such a pooja could be performed at that time. He bent over the book in his hands. My mind began another race. “Yes”, be exclaimed loudly, “the time between this and that time tonight is very auspicious, we must go ahead”. That was the fifth indication….. (the auspicious time). The numerous items required for the pooja had to be purchased almost immediately to ensure the pooja was performed within the auspicious time. It was too late in the evening to drive out the distance to a bigger prayer shop to facilitate a card payment. Time was of essence hence the purchases had to be made from small traders close by, where cash was required. The demonitisation in India at the time had left us cash strapped with little room to maneuver. We were getting by through card payments. The reading had been settled but the pooja and the numerous items required had to be purchased without delay. We considered various possibilities. It was indeed a conundrum. Unpredictably, the nadi reader stated that he would go out and make all the purchases. He added that he knew what was required and where to get them and he would return in time to begin the pooja that evening. He declared that he too had difficulties withdrawing money but he would find a way to do it. He asked us not to be concerned around the money issue. To describe my reaction as astounded remains an understatement. It was beyond disbelief. I fleetingly wondered how much acute mental stimulation my head could accommodate. It was unacceptable to us. We could not inconvenience him further to such an extent. We tried to talk him away from it, unsuccessfully. He had decided. He insisted on going ahead and reminded us that time was running out. 

A Defining Event

We returned to our hotel, freshened up for the prayer and hurried back to the Shiva/Agathiyar haven. The nadi reader arrived shortly afterwards clutching onto many bags of pooja purchases. He indicated that there were a few obstacles but he had surmounted them to get back in time. He put down the bags and caught his breath. Turning to me he declared, “You are very blessed, Agathiyar wants you to have this pooja tonight and so this pooja will take place tonight. All the obstacles were removed for you to have this pooja tonight”. That was the sixth indication…or was it a confirmation? A huge lump took hold of my throat and tears welled my eyes. The only appropriate response I could manage was a whisper of, “I know, I know and I am very grateful”. The auspicious time beckoned. He invited me to help him prepare and set out the pooja items. That for me was another privileged. With Lord Shiva and Agathiyar looking on, we began our prayers to Lord Ganesha and then proceeded to mother shakti. He (the nadi reader) gave me a mantra to concentrate on as I stood before Agathiyar ready to fulfill his request. He then led me through an abishekim that included an ancient bundle of nadi leaves in his possession, Agathiya’s rudrakash, paatharatchai (wooden sandles), kamandalam (water vessel), and his vaasi kol (wooden staff) (all his personal possessions). It was the most liberating, uplifting experience to hold each one. I was guided through gently cleansing each of them, adding a sweet fragrance, adorning them with sandal paste and other special items to enhance the beauty of each item. Agathiyar had requested that to be performed at that place, at that time, immediately after sharing what he had written in my leaf. That was far greater than if I chose to make the offering voluntarily. I could think of nothing more rewarding. The circumstances around how it all came to be required appreciation. Was it a defining event for the two of us? Were we connecting or reconnecting? How long did he wait since he had written my leaf until that time (that day), when I could serve him, again? Was he drawing me closer? Was he stoking my memories and emotions? Was it possible that the revelations from my reading and the several head spins had over activated my imagination? I was guided through various mantras, prayers and special readings as I pledged, accepted and committed to my “palm leaf” and presented my offering of the 5 trays. As I immersed myself into what I was being guided through I willingly lost myself in further surrender to the one I belong to; to the one I belong with. The pooja was a prerequisite to the other parikarams. In view of that it had to take place first and at that time to allow me to complete the remaining ones the following day. The pooja went on for approximately 3 hours although it felt like a 10-minute dream. The nadi reader was thoroughly pleased and satisfied that he and we had successfully fulfilled Agathiyar’s first request. Agasthiyampalli was next. It was by that time, around 12am, 31 December 2016. The kind nadi reader walked with us to our car and remarked, “You ended the year with this pooja, tomorrow (1st Jan) you begin the new year with a pooja at Agastiyampalli”. That was undeniably a profound observation. A new beginning was on the horizon. 

We left the hotel for Agasthiyampalli around 4am, after approximately 2 hours of restless sleep. The long silent drive gave us (my husband and I) much opportunity to think, process and put much into perspective. I had heard much about Agathiyar at Agasthiyampalli and my excitement grew as we drew closer. At the entrance of the temple we were greeted by a strikingly, beautiful yellow butterfly (the yellow butterfly and I share some personal history, from Kalyana Theertham). I acknowledged the butterfly with a smile and a silent prayer. Other than three temple priests, there were no people around. We were shown to Agathiyar’s revered home. I was elated at being there however I had to remember not to break into conversation with him (our father) or pray or ask for anything, as was instructed in the reading. I was to just sit with him in meditation, no thoughts. I prepared, lit the ghee lamp and offered it to him before I took my place at his feet. I immersed myself in his energy and respectfully followed his instructions. When it was time to leave, I resisted the urge to communicate. I maintained a gaze as I wondered if he would know that I had been there. After a visit to the main temple we were heading towards the exit when we heard a call from behind. I turned around to find an elderly person calling out to us. He was standing outside the Agathiyar shrine. He was small in stature, very thin, a little bent over and had seen many years. He had in his hands a yellow garland. When I got close enough to him he handed me the garland and said “Here, Agathiyar gave this for you”, in Tamil. I was astonished, amazed. I accepted it graciously, thanking him profusely. I soon realized that I had gotten caught up in the moment and froze before him. “Okay, go now, go now”, he warmly motioned me towards the gate (in Tamil).

With that blessing we made our way towards the other remaining temples. The nadi reader called several times to ensure we were on track and would accomplish all the temple visits that day and before closing times. We inexplicably managed to achieve that, as well as the poojas that were specified. We returned to the hotel well after 12am, amazed at having accomplished what initially appeared as impossible.

Our days in India were nearing the end but there was just enough time for some introspection. Much had transpired in just a few weeks. I had built the trip around the guru pooja in Kallar. I was also seeking information and answers. I intended to visit some temples and special places. However, I discovered that there were other priorities that had to be fulfilled, which was part of a bigger plan, not my own. I reflected on my numerous experiences in India. I introspected around the necessity for me to experience the Nilgiri’s from within? Was the brief illness part of a plan to test or prepare me for what was to follow? My time at the ashram and with Thavayogi was precious as always but appeared more connected to my nadi reading. There were “winds of change” that carefully moved things around to accommodate the far greater plan. Shanga the loyal devotee was trusted to ensure that the reading came to fruition (It is now clear to me that he does know people in high places). That undoubtedly was the first and most important cog in the wheel, given that “the leaf” was awaiting my arrival. The nadi reader who defeated many odds to ensure the pooja took place that evening. Such extraordinary kindness and selfless commitment to helping others. Support from the nadi reader and our caring driver to ensure that all the temples were visited and the rituals completed. Since embarking on my young journey I have been fortunate and grateful for the numerous meaningful and miraculous experiences shown and given to me. Each experience appears to outdo the previous one. This trip was no different. Each time I thought it could not get better, I was shown otherwise. I was afforded the opportunity to meet and cross paths with some of the most extraordinary souls, beyond my imagination. From the doctor at the hospital, nurses, drivers, strangers, hotel manager, highly evolved souls, the homeless, friends and acquaintances. I have come to expect and enjoy these amazing experiences immensely but when I was dealt a blow through a sudden illness I had to embrace that as well. I am aware that there are many things I must suffer and endure relative to my karma. My only expectation and request of him is that he never forgets me and that he gives me strength. If he never leaves me and he gives me strength there is nothing I cannot surmount. (On a side note: he tells me I should not forget him). The nadi reading was the furthest thing from my mind when I left home for India but it became the most appreciated highpoint of my trip. I had no idea that the time was right and ripe for the reading. It signaled the end of a very long chapter and the beginning of a new one. I had gone to India with a litany of questions, did I return with the answers? Indeed, I did, beyond my expectations. The revelations from the reading brought that to a full circle. 

A pleasant thought remains, “Did I go in search of myself or did the search come for me?”, regardless, the happy ending is that we found each other.

57TH YEAR GURU PUJA FOR JAGANATHA SWAMIGAL

AVM received an invitation from Thiru Krishnan, the chairman of the Sri Jaganatha Swami Sivalayam Temple committee in Tapah to its 57th Guru Puja celebrations on 10.2.2017. Devotees are invited to attend and participate in the prayers to be conducted by Siva Sri Muthukumara Sivachariyar, a disciple of Chitramuthu Adigal.

THE MYSTERIOUS NADI

Vivek from Pune wanted to know when I saw the Nadi for the very first time, where, and who was the reader? What was my experience, reaction? Why did I see it, was I in any trouble? He went on to narrate his experience. He has been seeing the Nadi since he was 18 and has had 500 personal readings, not mentioning hundreds of others whom he had brought for a reading too. He has seen friends and others saved from danger, freed of debts, and cured from diseases.

His first encounter with the Siddhas and their Nadi was in Pune itself, and the predictions came true. He soon saw the Prashna Kandam many times. He was blessed to have Sage Vasisth, Kaushik, Kakabujander and Atri provide a reading besides seeing the Brahma Sookshma, Shiva Sookshma and Saptarishi Nadis. Every nadi reading was very special to him. Down south in Tamilnadu, Ramani Guruji, Selvam and Tavayogi had readings for him. He says after the Jeeva Nadi readings, his life changed entirely. He also had the opportunity to meet Manoj some three years back. Manoj had carried out thousands of yagnas and havans. They both roamed extensively in Tamilnadu, seeking out whoever had the Nadi for a reading and the Siddhas blessings. Vivek says that Mahamuni Agathiyar had given joint readings for both of them many times. He ends our chat on Whatsapp with a further surprise, telling me that Manoj has seen the Nadi 3,000 times! Amazing. I realize now that my Nadi reading record of 54 to date does not stand anywhere close to theirs.

I did not have a good impression about fortune tellers and astrologers in the beginning. I always had the thought that how is someone squatting on a 5 foot way going to predict a better future for us? But I changed my opinion when I began to learn to draw up an astrological chart myself. It is a science on its own! I respect them.

Similarly I tend to appreciate the work that is done by the temple priests, now since, my family and I are engaged in conducting the homam, abhisegam and prayers for Agathiyar at AVM. I understand the extend of their work and commitment pretty well now. I respect them.

After both my daughters, my wife and me were hospitalized for various reasons over the past years, I began to respect the medical profession more for their untiring and exemplary work in trying to keep every patient alive. I respect them.

Similarly today I came to realize the extent of knowledge a Nadi reader needs to have in order to read, decipher, understand and to convey the messages of the Siddhas in a simple language that is understood by people of all walks of life. I respect them.

We are fortunate that we have Nadi Nool Aasan Selvam to enlighten us on the mysteries of the Nadi and their authors. I have tried to translate his explanations into English to my best ability.

Aasan Selvam explains the nature and why the Nadi Sastras of the Siddhas came into being. The innumerable Siddhas, coming out of their tapas, intended to lead mankind to a better future. Hence they wrote various scriptures. One of it is the Jothida Sastra. Jothidam is considered as the "eyes" to the Vedas. The following is determined for each individual while in the womb itself: His/her lifespan; career; fortune; skills; appearance; and death. Brahma determines one's fate and destiny with Shiva's grace. Only the Siddhas have the ability to uncover what has been determined by Brahma in the womb. Hence although to read these Sastras one needs to be trained formally, to understand it one requires the grace of the Siddhas. This knowledge is given to only certain deserving individuals.

Before being able to reveal one's Jataka, the reader needs to ascertain what karma the individual has done. (This is the reason all individuals are taken through a reading of their Karma Kandam even before the other chapters are revealed. The past is made known to them on the onset.)

After ascertaining the karma, he needs to know what has been destined for him by Brahma based on these karma.

Then he needs to analyse and study how the planetary positions would affect and its impact on the individual throughout his life. This comparative study with the sutras regarding the effects of planetary movements or gochara palan, will aid in analysing and predicting the future with some accuracy.

The Nadi has to be read correctly. Now the reader has to relate the messages conveyed by the Siddhas to the seeker with some dignity. If the prediction denotes some form of mishap or unhappiness, the reader should help the individual by looking into the means or ways of overcoming them through atonements or parikarams laid out in the Neri Dharma Sastra which includes identifying the weak planets, knowing the Aadhi Devatha and Pratiya Devatha of these planets.

Finally the process is completed by suggesting ways to appease the planets and overcome these adverse conditions that eventually brings a blessed life to the individual.

This is the dharma of the Nadi reader and the Siddhas. One who undertakes to predict the future has to conform to these requirements. 458000 slogas serve as the basis to Nadi Sastra and needs to be scrolled through, studied and researched. This is only possible through the Guru's grace. The exponents and Gurus of Jothidam are 18 in number and are listed as: Surya; Brahman; Veda Vyasa; Parasarar; Atri; Romagan; Vasishta; Maruchi; Bowlagar; Yevanar; Saunagar; Manu; Bhrigu; Janagar; Angirasar; Kasipar; Karthipar; and Naranan.

Man's life as it is is too complicated. To fathom that that is not to be known needs a certain degree of intelligence, wisdom and grace of the Siddhas.

COMING TOGETHER IN THE NAME OF AGATHIYAR

On 18 December 2016, Kallar Ashram became the venue where devotees of Agathiyar from all over met, introduced themselves and came to known more about each other. It became a melting pot for devotees from all languages, cultures and traditions, and across borders and continents. After the Vizha, these devotees of Agathiyar each took back an idea, a thought or a seed, that eventually germinated into a series of discussions and gatherings among them in their respective cities.

Suganthi originally from Coimbatore in India, started a Whatsapp group SG Agathiar Devotees once she returned to Singapore roping in other expatriates from India, Singaporeans and Malaysians from the southern tip of Malaysia; Sanjiv Malhotra started a Whatsapp group Agathiyar devotees in New Delhi roping in devotees from the north of India; Sivakavin from Chennai started a Whatsapp group Agathiyar Arul Alayam to bring together Chennaites faithful to Agathiyar and the Siddhas; and Nadi Nool Aasan Selvam with his newly formed group Sri Agastya Jeeva Nadi began to share rare and valuable information about the Siddhas and their Nadi.

SG Agathiar Devotees had their very first meet and satsangam yesterday, sharing Murugesan's recent trip to all the sacred places in India. 

Sivakavin met up with the members of his newly formed Agathiyar Arul Alayam and also met those he became acquainted with earlier at Kallar Ashram during the Agathiyar Vizha. They got together at a puja at the Sri Anandhavalli Sametha Agastheeswarar Temple at Pancheshti yesterday.

The Sri Anandhavalli Sametha Agastheeswarar Temple at Pancheshti. Photos courtesy of Srimathi Vijiyalakshmi.

Agathiyar Sannadhi

http://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2014/09/the-story-of-panchesti-temple.html

Agathiyar devotees had a field day discussing the mystery of the Nadi in the group. When I thought I had seen the Nadi the most number of times (54), Vivek tells me he has seen it 500 times! I felt like going into hiding. 

Nadi Nool Aasan Selvam through his Sri Agastya Jeeva Nadi shared wonderful, amazing and rare information regarding the Siddhas and their Nadi. I will post these in the days to come. 

Through associating with these great souls we begin to realize that what we really know is a teeny weeny bit only.

DEVOTEES OF AGATHIYAR PART 4

The year was 2002. I was the new kid on the block. I was asked to come to the path of the Siddhas. Nadi Nool Aasan Sentilkumar led me with my very first recitation of the names of the Siddhas or Siddhar Potri. The late Sivabalan gave me my very first picture of Agathiyar to worship. 

Even before I came to the Siddha path, there were numerous organizations and establishments affiliated to several religious institutions in India, already in existence in Malaysia. As a freshie, I looked towards these seniors for some guidelines on how to worship the Siddhas. But I got nowhere. Then I decided to work on my own. A year later, I met my very first guru Supramania Swami of Thiruvannamalai on the last leg of my maiden pilgrimage to India. Three years later I met Tavayogi Thangarasan Adigal of Kallar Ashram who was in Malaysia. When I enquired about how to worship the Siddhas, he told me that it was sufficient to just chant the names of the Siddhas.

Over the years I came across many versions of these Siddhar Potri Thoguppu, compiled by different organizations. I began to gather these extensive lists of names and several others that I came across in books regarding the Siddhas. This I used in my prayers. Soon I made it available on the net too.

The New Book of Praise to Siddhas by Shanmugam Avadaiyappa on Scribd

I was asked to pray by Dr Krishnan, astrologer, Siddha medicine practitioner, spiritual guide and friend in 1996. I was asked to come to his fold by Agathiyar in 2002. Sentilkumar led my on the chant of the names of the Siddhas. I was asked to light a lamp and pray by Supramania Swami in 2003. Tavayogi asked me to start lighting the sacrificial fire or flame or homam in 2005. What mantra should we chant to accompany the ritual, I asked? Chanting of the names of the Siddhas will do, he said. When I travelled to the Siddha temples, caves and samadhis with Tavayogi many miracles took place as we chanted these names. Tavayogi would always tell me that the Siddhas came, after each recitation was over. Finally Agathiyar asked me to install his moorthy or statue and pray to him in 2009 which we did on 3 January 2010. Since then lighting a lamp and chanting of the names of the Siddhas followed by showering flower petals to the feet of the Lord was always a major part of the ritual during our puja at AVM. 

What is there with these names then?

In a song by a Siddha, he expounds the greatness of calling out the name of Agathiyar. The Siddha says all his fellow man (the Siddhas) shall turn to look and enquire who was the soul that had just called out Agathiyar's name. The moola mantra of a deity or Siddha, given by a guru to a student during teecha or initiation, when recited by the student informs them of the students readiness to connect with them. The mantra or name becomes the link between the inhabitants of this two worlds or planes. Through lighting the lamp, the light becomes the portal for this travel to take place.

Lately when I travelled to India with my AVM family, many miracles took place as we recited the names of the Siddhas at every temple we visited. Besides these miracles we sensed their presence too. We have seen for ourselves and could now vouch the efficacy of chanting their names. With their coming, there is bliss!

Agathiyar had extolled the benefits of prayers and puja in a Nadi reading very much earlier on 12.7.2010 (See page 21 of the above compilation)

But the one miracle that stood out and made the world take notice is Agathiyar opening his eyes , a miracle that was caught on camera by my daughter. We were blessed to have Jnana Jyothiamma of India with us. Agathiyar later confirms the miracle in a Nadi reading.

A couple of days ago Thiru Kalaichelvan, a long time devotee of Agathiyar, calls me to say that he had had a Nadi reading and Agathiyar had asked that he print and distribute the photo of him opening his eyes to his devotees. Kalai had told this to Sri Krishna and Krishna immediately showed him this photo. Kalai called to seek permission and inform me of his intent in using the photo. I told him that I shall pass him a copy of the original rather than he download a compressed version from the net and I asked him for some time. Meanwhile I mentioned this to Bala Chandran of AVM. The next day Bala forwards to me a wonderful composition of AVM Agathiyar, and Lord Muruga's vel!