ANNADHANAM IN CONJUNCTION VINAYAGAR CHATURTHI

An Annadhanam program was carried out today in conjunction with Vinayagar Chaturthi at a school SJK (T) Semenyih. AVM family members found time to serve the children.

 

THE MANY ORIGINS OF AGATHIYAR

I had turned vegetarian overnight for no reason at all. Similarly I began to worship Agathiyar and the Siddhas immediately when asked to do so by Agathiyar through the Nadi. Traveling on the path of the Siddhas, I soon realized that if I was to be questioned about my worship of Agathiyar, I would not have any knowledge if asked about the very entity that I was worshiping, his origin, and his story.

The question that I feared most did crop up when a cousin who came to know I was in the worship of Agathiyar, brought up a couple of episodes from Agathiyar's life that he had knowledge about, asking me for confirmation. I replied to him that I had no idea and was not an authority on it, but I told him that I pretty much knew he was with us, guiding us and caring for us. I had felt his presence often and he had worked out miracles in our lives. That was all I knew about him. It did not matter if I did not know about his origin and his story as I knew he was there for me in my hour of need. That put a stop to that conversation that day.

Surendaran Selvaratnam and I discussed this matter and he agreed to ask the Siddha himself for answers to his origin the next time he went for a Nadi reading. Agathiyar answered his query beginning of this year. In the last post I had shared Agathiyar's brief revelation in the Nadi about himself. The re-post of the translation from Tamil is as follows.

Agathiyar in his very first mortal birth, had the vision of Kailash at a very young age of 10. After the vision he took up extreme tapas (tavam) including breath control. With the holy feet of the Sadguru forever in his thought, he reached a state of Nirmala at Kailash. Upon receiving theecha from Lord Kailai Shiva, he was blessed to be born a Siddha. It was a mystical birth. Agathiyar adds that it was not necessary to dwell into the source and the details (Rishimulam Nadhimulam).

Born as a Siddha now and moving in the jungles, sustaining only on fruits, his thoughts fixed on Erai, having no attachment to the good or bad, he soon had the vision and grace of Goddess Vana Kali. Continuing with his seeking and search for realization, and upon accomplishment through further severe tavam, Lord Kailai Shiva shows him his vision in Pothigai. Merging with Erai, Agathiyar stayed on at Pothigai upon Lord Kailai Shiva's directive. While here he came to know about the medicinal benefits of various herbs and plants. Agathiyar received the names of Kudamuni, Kumbamuni and other names from Lord Kailai Shiva.

Going without food and remaining in silence, staying in the state of Vasi, adhering to the eight limbs of Asthanga Yoga and performing extreme tapas, for the rest of the Yuga, gaining the Siddhi to travel through air,  yet Lord Kailai Shiva told Agathiyar that there was something that he had failed to accomplish and do. When Agathiyar asked for further clarification, Lord Kailai Shiva laugh and looked him straight into his eyes, "Although you are an embodiment of Jnana, and those who hold on to your feet shall never face any disappointments, Gurumuni you do not have a companion as I do."

Agathiyar was taken aback. He came to know that the Lord intended to get him engaged to the very representation of Mother Kaveri, and Kaberan's daughter, Lobamutrai. Hence in this Kali Yuga, his energy that was of Shiv Sakthi came to stay at Kalyana Theertam with the intention of blessing all those who came seeking him and stood before him and Lobha Ma, seeing them as a personification of Shiv Sakthi.

Thavathiru Rengaraja Desigar in his book, "POTRINAL UNATHU VINAI AGALUM APPA", explains further, the process through which Agathiyar attained the highest state, that of becoming one with Erai. This state was granted to Agathiyar by his Guru Supramaniar (Lord Muruga). I shall run through a translation of his writing, originally in Tamil, briefly.

All the knowledge to attain the state was made available to Agathiyar by Supramaniar because Agathiyar had provided the space, shelter and all comforts for Supramaniar to carry on with his penances (tapas) and austerities (tavam) in a past birth. Agathiyar was 60 years of age then when Supramaniar attained the body of Light through his tapas, thanks to Agathiyar looking after all of Supramaniar's needs. Supramaniar promised Agathiyar that they shall meet in a subsequent birth and that he shall return the favor.

In the succeeding birth Agathiyar traveled in vain in search of his ideal guru. He eventually met Supramaniar at Kodaikanal, where Supramaniar made him recall the past and as promised in return for all his services in the past birth, blessed Agathiyar and taught him secrets of attaining the state of Erai.

Agathiyar mentions that he learnt the Siddha way from Supramaniar. Supramaniar granted Agathiyar the body of Light or Jhothi Nilai in the following birth as appreciation of Agathiyar's service rendered to him and helping Supramaniar himself achieve his desire in attaining the Jhothi Nilai.

Agathiyar began with performing puja to Supramaniar. By way of devotion to Supramaniar he began to realize that he had had the greatest gift that was the human birth, which comes by very rarely. Through Supramaniar he came to know himself and the divinity that resided in the physical body. He understood the very Nature that brought him forth and resided within him. With Supramaniar's guidance and blessings, Agathiyar relished the ambrosia or nectar that came about through his tapas. This removed the seven veils to reveal the Jhothi in him, hence attaining the body of Light. With this came Bliss, Siddhis, and the state of Deathless-ness. Agathiyar attained the five tanmai of Erai namely Creation, Sustenance, Destruction, Veiling and Showering Grace. 

Supramaniar granted Agathiyar the title Gurumuni and Kumbamuni and sent him off to spread the Siddha way extensively all over the globe, bringing many into his fold. All the Siddhas soon looked upon Agathiyar as their Guru.

Dr. Mandayam Kumar from the Siddha Medical Research Institute in Bangalore,

... gives a short narrative about Sage Agastya at the beginning of Kali era, since when our present civilization has its origin. Sage Agastya is stated to have been born nearly 5000 years prior to the commencement of Kali Yuga, at a place in Gujarat, as the son of Bhargava and Indumathi who followed the traditional Pasupatha cult which was widely prevalent at that time", at http://www.tknsiddha.com/medicine/origin/

In another article of his, SIDDHA AGASTHYA – FOREMOST OF THE SIDDHAS, passed on to me by Nadi Nool Aasan T.Ramesh many years back, Dr. Mandayam gives more details. I have given a summary of it as follows.

The Dr mentions that it was possible to find out details about Agathiyar during the course of literary research on the Siddha medical sciences in a Tamil manuscript written on palm leaves about 3,000 years ago. The text attributed to Lord Muruga is titled PRAPANCHA KAANDAM and according to the Dr runs into several volumes. Agathiyar narrated the contents while Pulastyar recorded it.

The Dr. reveals for the first time the parental heritage of Agathiyar. Agathiyar was said to have been born about 4573 years prior to the commencement of Kali Yuga at a place in Gujarat, in the early hours of Tuesday, 14 February 7673 BC. Belonging to the early Aryan race, his father Bhargava was well learned while his mother Indumathi was from Punjab. They were both devotees of the Pasupatha order of Rishabha Muni. Agathiyar had his early education in Gujarat. 

As his thirst for knowledge in particular on philosophy, Yoga, medicine, and astronomy was immense, he traveled all over Kashmir, Tibet, China, Nepal, and Kailas in Manchuria. (Mount Kailas was deemed to be in Manchuria those days). He became a disciple of Nandi and Dhanvantri. 

He then traveled towards the south to Cambodia and Malaya (present day Malaysia). In Cambodia, he established the very first of his many educational institutions for the propagation of philosophy and science. After establishing a similar institution and hospital in Malaya, he crossed the sea to the continent of Kumari Kandam (during Agathiyar’s time, Kumari Kandam occupied a vast area extending from the present day Sri Lanka to the Antarctic. Ravana, a great devotee of Lord Shiva, ruled this continent). 

King Ravana gave away a portion of his kingdom to Agathiyar to establish more institutions. The foremost of these institutions in this region was known as Arunodaya Giri or Meozone. Here Agathiyar practiced Yoga and taught it to his large following of disciples. 

Agathiyar then went back north to Malaya where he was betrothed to the king’s daughter. He then ruled the kingdom of Vijayapuri. He returned to Kumari Kandam where he met Lord Murugan in the form of Supramaniar at Trikona Malai (present day Trincomali). At the hill station called Kadari Kama or Kadhirgama, Lord Murugan imparted spiritual knowledge to Agathiyar. 

Dr. Mandayam Kumar says Agathiyar could see impending calamities take place in the future during his meditation. As a result, he moved to the North Pole considering it to be a save place. This period of his move to the arctic was said to coincide with the end of the Dwapara Yuga placed at about 6580 BC. Just as he had seen of an impending calamity and had decided to move north, a tremendous explosion in the planet mars sends a piece of debris towards earth. This impact caused a great deluge on the earth. Significant portions of Kumari Kandam submerged into the Indian Ocean. Continental drift then resulted in the present day arrangement of this region. After the great flood Kailas was no more but instead the Himalayan mountain range had emerged in north India. 

Amidst all this geographical changes, says the Dr, Agathiyar went seeking for a place that would not be affected by future calamities. He located a mountain range in south India. This is the present day Courtalam. This spot is said to be the safest place and free from any future catastrophes. Here Agathiyar met Lord Shiva and Uma in the form of Dhakshinamurthi and Shenbaga Devi. The spot where the meeting took place between Dhakshinamurthi, Shenbaga Devi, Lord Murugan, and Agathiyar was Mahadeva Giri. This meeting also signified the commencement of Kali Yuga. Other Siddhas then started coming to Mahadeva Giri. Lord Dhakshinamurthi revived the knowledge of the Vedas and instructed these Siddhas to propagate this knowledge at the appropriate manner and time for the benefit of humanity. The imparting of this knowledge was said to have taken place on the 21st day of the Tamil month of Kartigai, during the eleventh year, Eswara Samvatsara, of Kali Yuga. Agathiyar gave much importance to this day. All his dating was reckoned from this day. 

The Siddhas recorded their knowledge on palm leaves after extensive discussions held in Alagan Kulam and presented them to Lord Dhakshinamurthi for his perusal. This included the 64 kinds of learning, 18 Puranas, 96 tatvas, and 48 branches of scientific knowledge. The entire literature in Tamil came to be called SIDDHAVEDA. It was then translated into the four existing languages of that period which was Sanskrit, Greek, Hebrew, and Chinese. Agathiyar on the instruction of Lord Murugan originated the Tamil language. 

Bhogar from China (Agathiyar in the Jeeva Nadi revelation to Hanumathdasan of Chennai says Bhogar was from Mongolia), Thaeraiyar from Malaya, Yugimuni from Kerala, Pulipani from Kantha Malai, Pulastyar, and Kapiyar all served Agathiyar. A conference of Siddhas called Siddhar Sabai was held during the 53rd year, Siddharti Samvatsara, of Kali Yuga at Courtalam. An institution known as Siddhar Gnana Koodam was inaugurated by Lord Murugan and was headed by Agathiyar. Pulastyar and Kapiyar headed the literary section while Pulipani in research. Thaeraiyar who was into surgery headed a medical research centre established at Thorana Malai. Yugimuni who was into herbal medicines headed an ayurvedic hospital at Paradesi Kundai. Bhogar who was in charge of all scientific researches established an alchemy research centre at Tiruparankundram. Pambatti was heading a team researching venom at Marudamalai. After having established these institutions Agathiyar again started on an extensive mission of propagating the wealth of knowledge gained by these Siddhas in Tibet, Manchuria, Egypt, Palestine, Rome, America, Africa, Malaya and the Arab world. 

After satisfactorily completing their mission of propagating the said teachings the Siddhas went into samadhi merging themselves into the cosmos. Supramaniar went into samadhi in Thorana Malai, Bhogar in Palani, Thaeraiyar, Pulipani and Yugimuni in Kantha Malai and Agathiyar himself choose to come back to Courtalam. He chose a spot called Dhashina Meru in the Pothigai hills. This spot is also the abode of Dhakshinamurthi.

Pa. Kamalakannan in CITTAR URUVIL SHIVAPERUMAN, Vanathi Pathippakam, 2007 (Kamalakannan, 2007), says Agathiyar married Yasomadhi from Cambodia. Among his children who ruled the land, Yasovarma became a famous ruler.

P. Karthigayan in his HISTORY OF MEDICAL AND SPIRITUAL SCIENCES OF SIDDHAS OF TAMIL NADU, quotes Bhogar as having mentioned that Agathiyar was from a family of farmers. This little known fact was mentioned by Agathiyar in the Nadi reading for AVM lately. 

P. Karthigayan writes that Agathiyar "gave rise to 48 generations." Agathiyar in his search for knowledge approached many people from various communities, finally picked up the yogic way and excelled in it.  On achieving the inner glow he took on the name Agathiyar. P. Karthigayan says as Siddhas specialized in a particular field that suited them, Agathiyar had many mentors including (Lord) Siva and (Lord) Kumaran and an equal number of disciples. P. Karthigayan lists out an extensive list of Agathiyar's contribution towards the community and humanity, hence receiving the famed title Guru Muni or great mentor. P. Karthigayan dates Agathiyar's achievements accordingly as pre- and post Sanga period, whence the establishment of the Sangam or literary academia too place. If during his pre-Sanga days he was into yogic practices, after the establishment of the Sanga: he established more Sangams and monasteries, pioneered and promoted the Tamil script and Tamil grammar, collected and compiled the works of the Siddhas and published them, streamlined the Siva faith, and spread the Siddha Marga, and exposed the false teachings, in total bringing a Renaissance. In his post Sanga years he concentrated on medicine and science. His greatest achievement was his ability to live for 4 aeons, at the time of mention in writing by Bhogar, and still lives among us in present times. 

M. Govindan in BABAJI AND THE 18 SIDDHA KRIYAYOGA TRADITION, Kriya Yoga Publications, Quebec, Canada, 1991, details Agathiyar's journey as starting at Agastya Ashram near Nasik (Pancavati in ancient times), marriage to Lobhamudra, king Vidarbha’s daughter (mentioned in the Mahabharata), and meeting up with Rama. Then his pilgrimage takes him south where he has a residence at Malakuta near Badami (ancient Vatapi Puram or Dakshina Kasi). Then he comes to Pothigai hills. He moves on to the Indonesian islands, Borneo, and takes up residence in Maha Malaya hill in Malaya Dvipa. He enters Siam (present day Thailand) and Cambodia where he marries Yasomadhi. They beget a young prince named Yasovarma. He is reported to be living until the present day at Courtalam.

Pon. Govindaswamy in his book, SIRSABAIYUM PORSABAIYUM, Bharath Book Bureau, 1985, mentions that Agathiyar took birth as Valluvar and gave us the TIRUKURAL besides other texts. He mentions that Agathiyar took birth as Ramalinga Adigal in the 19th century and gave us the TIRUARUTPA. 

When Tavayogi told me Agathiyar came the night of my arrival at Kallar Ashram I listened on. When he told me that Agathiyar had appeared before him, at the Kallar hills behind his Ashram, I finally questioned him in what form and shape he appeared to him. Tavayogi replied that he came in the form of light. Then as we stepped out of the Nattadreeswar Temple in the centre of the River Kaveri at Kangayapalaiyam, Erode, after we witnessed the puja while Tavayogi sat in meditation, he turned to me and said that (Lord) Shiva and Agathiyar were one.

When Bhrigu Muni told me to go back to my brother-in-law's house after my unexpected Nadi reading in Ipoh, where the Muni mentioned that Sri Raghavendra will bless me, true to his words Sri Raghavendra came on him and told me that he and Agathiyar were one.

When I dressed up the bronze idol of Agathiyar in white and placed a garland made from Durva grass or arugampul and sang songs in praise of Lord Vinayagar, Agathiyar in a Nadi reading said he was overjoyed and had accepted the puja. Seeing him as Lord Vinayagar was the right concept and line of thought. He said he would appear in whatever form that the devotees would want to see.

When the south had raised after all the Gods and Goddesses, Devas and Devis, Siddhas, Rishis, Munis, and many more deities and divinities had gathered at Kailash to witness Lord Shiva's marriage to Goddess Parvathi, Agathiyar was sent away to the south to bring about a balance. Pon. Govindaswamy in his book, VALLALARUM BRAMAGNANA SANGAMUM, Bharath Book Bureau, calls this event where the earth tilted as a Mystical Occult Event. This event is mentioned by Tirumular in his Tirumanthiram.

From this event, I understood that Agathiyar is equivalent to "all the Gods and Goddesses, Devas and Devis, Siddhas, Rishis, Munis, and many more deities and divinities put together" for simple logic would tell us that to balance a weighing scale you need to place an equal amount of weight, equal to the commodity purchased, on the other end.

Agathiyar tells us in the Nadi that he is in the prapanjam and that the prapanjam is in him. Just pause and take a moment to ponder on his statement, and you shall understand the magnanimity of Agathiyar.

Just as when we go for a Nadi reading, Agathiyar speaks about an episode from our past, or from a particular past birth, from the many we have taken, it seems to me that all these revelations, although varied and seemingly contradicting each other, are from several periods in his life or from different births taken.

It is no wonder that at the onset itself Agathiyar tells us that usually they do not dwell into the origin and source of their birth, brushing it aside as unimportant to us. True, but its often the curiosity in us and the thirst to know, that prompts us for answers to life's mysteries. Like I answered my cousin earlier, I still have no idea whats going on, but it is of no importance to me. I know he is with us, guiding us and caring for us. We feel his presence often and he has worked out miracles in our lives. That is sufficient for now. Aum Agatheesaya Namaha.

MARRIAGE & ITS SOLEMNESS

It is only when you walk the walk that you realize how people have manipulated the path for their own agenda. Originally there would be a path walked by the master. Later, devotees would have lost the path momentarily only to join back on the original track later, missing some views and experiences meantime. Later devotees, would stray away and discover another path that would still bring them to their masters abode eventually. 

Walking the Siddha path I realized how deviated the following was then, to the extend that it brought fear in others to walk along or hop onto the wagon. They stayed away for reasons that did not make sense either: marriages was not allowed, the path splits families, the followers had weird beliefs and practices etc. These were the reasons told to me when I took my first step into the mystical and mysterious world of the Siddhas. The negative perceptions of past devotees, fence sitters and people from the outside did much damage and created a phobia, hence discouraging the public from coming to the path.

On the contrary Siddha path is nothing like what I was told. It is only when you yourself take a ride in the buggy or roller coaster that you would know what the ride is like. Not that I can say that I fully understand the Siddhas, but some things have been demystified and the mystery revealed to a certain extent, sufficient for us to live a meaningful life in this world, performing our daily chores and carrying out our responsibilities, towards the family and the society.

I for one learnt that on the contrary, the Siddhas encourage devotees to marry and fulfill their responsibilities diligently. My very first guru Supramania Swami was a married man. Tavayogi Thangarasan Adigal was a married man. When he turned 50, Agathiyar selecting him for a bigger purpose, made him come out of the family way and serve the general public, guiding them to the path of the Siddhas.

When I met  him for the very first time, he invited me to bring along my family for his talk later in the evening. He told me it was not sufficient that I came to the path, but had to bring the family too. I was blessed that my wife and children were receptive and willing to follow the path as I did.

When my colleague Muralitharan was waiting to have his Nadi reading with Nadi Nool Aasan T.Ramesh, he picked up a chat with a girl also waiting to see her Nadi. She told him that her male friend was inside the room having his reading told. She then stop for a brief moment and became excited, pointing out to Murali that she could hear her name mentioned from the conversation that was audible outside, from behind the closed doors. Soon her friend came out and she went in. Now Agathiyar mentioned the male friend's name in her Nadi. They came as friends but left as a couple match-made by Agathiyar.

Similarly many AVM family members were brought together in matrimony for the reason that they had been together in the past births. Those of us, seniors at AVM, when we went for a Nadi reading were told that we and our spouses were married in earlier births too.

Agathiyar warns parents that it is wrong for them to separate two souls who liked each other. My daughter and son-in-law met at the collage and continued being friends. After 8 years when they each had settled in a job, we made arrangements to marry them off. Although it was customary to compare each others horoscope for compatibility, but since they had liked each other, we had to forego that tradition. When I approached the priest at our neighborhood temple,  I mentioned to him that, as they have known each other, we were not there to compare our children's horoscope but to only have him look into the almanac, and propose the suitable timings to have the engagement and wedding. He immediately told me three things: that if they liked each other, there was no need to see the horoscope, adding that the most important compatibility was that their hearts had come together in love for each other (mana poruttam);  there was a reason that they are getting together in matrimony, and that was because of their past lives and karma that determines this sacred engagement; and finally he told us to go ahead and leave all the rest to Erai. His encouraging words brought relief and joy to us.

My family was blessed to have Tavayogi and Mataji attend my daughter's marriage in July of last year. As he was about to leave the premises after the wedding ceremony, Tavayogi whispered to me that all the Siddhas were there to bless all, showering flower petals during the wedding. I was very thankful for I knew it was possible by Tavayogi to bring the Siddhas down to witness and grace the solemn ceremony where two souls join in matrimony.

When the newly weds sat in front of Tavayogi for a Jeeva Nadi reading several days later, Agathiyar revealed the same, what Tavayogi had said much earlier. Agathiyar mentioned that all the Siddhas were assembled at the wedding hall, showering flowers and blessing them. He said that it was a very rare happening and reminded them that they were pretty much blessed to have the Siddhas drop in at their wedding.

We are told that the Gods and Goddesses too married and had spouses and these marriage ceremonies are reenacted in the temples annually. We are told that the Siddhas too lived with their spouses.

When AVM posed a question asking as to the origin of Agathiyar, in a Nadi reading, he reminded us that it was not their nature to reveal their origin or parentage. But the most compassionate father went on to explain very very briefly his past. What came as a welcome surprise to us was when he touched on his marriage with Lobhamutrai ma, that took place upon Lord Shiva's wish to see Agathiyar with a companion, like him.

Agathiyar in his very first mortal birth, had the vision of Kailash at a very young age of 10. After the vision he took up extreme tapas (tavam) including breath control. With the holy feet of the Sadguru forever in his thought, he reached a state of Nirmala at Kailash. Upon receiving theecha from Lord Kailai Shiva, he was blessed to be born a Siddha. It was a mystical birth. Agathiyar adds that it was not necessary to dwell into the source and the details (Rishimulam Nadhimulam).

Born as a Siddha now and moving in the jungles, sustaining only on fruits, his thoughts fixed on Erai, having no attachment to the good or bad, he soon had the vision and grace of Goddess Vana Kali. Continuing with his seeking and search for realization, and upon accomplishment through further severe tavam, Lord Kailai Shiva shows him his vision in Pothigai. Merging with Erai, Agathiyar stayed on at Pothigai upon Lord Kailai Shiva's directive. While here he came to know about the medicinal benefits of various herbs and plants. Agathiyar received the names of Kudamuni, Kumbamuni and other names from Lord Kailai Shiva.

Going without food and remaining in silence, staying in the state of Vasi, adhering to the eight limbs of Asthanga Yoga and performing extreme tapas, for the rest of the Yuga, gaining the Siddhi to travel through air,  yet Lord Kailai Shiva told Agathiyar that there was something that he had failed to accomplish and do. When Agathiyar asked for further clarification, Lord Kailai Shiva laugh and looked him straight into his eyes, "Although you are an embodiment of Jnana, and those who hold on to your feet shall never face any disappointments, Gurumuni you do not have a companion as I do."

Agathiyar was taken aback. He came to know that the Lord intended to get him engaged to the very representation of Mother Kaveri, and Kaberan's daughter, Lobamutrai. Hence in this Kali Yuga, his energy that was of Shiv Sakthi came to stay at Kalyana Theertam with the intention of blessing all those who came seeking him and stood before him and Lobha Ma, seeing them as a personification of Shiv Sakthi.

Agathiyar, in another Nadi reading, goes on to mention that his form in the granite statue at Agasthiyampalli was not a depiction of the state of yoga or jnana but that of a state of joy in him (Agathiyar) on having seen and had the vision and darshan of Lord Shiv and Sakthi Ma in their marriage attire after their marriage in Kailash. Hence so are the replicas of Agasthiyampalli Agathiyar at AVM and Eco City Agathiyar temple. We are blessed indeed to have Agathiyar in our midst in Malaysia, blessing all his devotees with good health, wealth, progeny and prosperity. 

Thavathiru Muthukumar Swamigal

GIVING CLEARER VISION

If earlier Roshan Sekhon contributed towards the cost of purchasing 5 pairs of glasses for the inmates and staffs of an old folks home, AVM through Amudha Surabhi (AS) donated the cost for 3 pairs of eye glasses for 3 students in Semenyih too. This small contribution brought cheer and a clearer vision to these deserving children. 

STAY WITH HIM

An Agathiyar's devotee from Chennai and a follower of Siddha Heartbeat for the past three years, shares her Nadi experience with us with a note and hope that "there may be few others who might get positive energy through this experience."

Agathiar dad has guided many fortunate people. I am blessed to receive Agathiar Mahamuni’s blessing. The following incident happened in my life after I got a reading from Agathiar Sithar through Tavayogi Thangarasan ayya. 

When I arrived at Kallar I was facing a tough situation. I had completed my B.Tech degree and had worked in a company for few years. I had resigned my job due to dissatisfaction in job and health issues. Being puzzled I spent time preparing for government exams and entrances for one year. But I did not clear any of them and was worried as of what I should do next in life regarding my career. I was in need of guidance.

I was lucky enough to get a nadi reading through Tavayogi ayya and Mataji amma at that time. Agathiar dad was very compassionate to show a way. He advised me to study in the same branch of the engineering field in which I did B Tech. I was confused since I did not have any idea of doing higher studies. I had asked Tavayogi ayya whether I can look for a job in my field or should study alone. Tavayogi ayya pointed out that Mahamuni has shown the way in your field. You can opt to study or seek job in your field. 

The entrance application for the most of the renowned colleges also had been closed for that academic year by that time. So I decided to seek for job. With my experience it was difficult to get job with a break in career. I was still trying with hopes that I will get a way. For more than four months I was seeking for job with not even a single shortlist or call for interview. I slowly started losing hope. That is when I heard from my friends that the entrance exam applications for some colleges are going to be open by the month end. By that time I changed my mind and decided to pursue higher studies in the college where I did my B. Tech. Degree.

I was highly stressed since there were only few options left to do higher studies in that academic year. Losing in exams will end up in not only losing a year in my career, but also will be a huge blow to my self- confidence. I should not miss the opportunity given so did hard work leaving the burden to God.

After a few days I got a dream where Agathiar dad came and blessed telling that your life will change in few months. With hopes I worked and after 2 months wrote the test. 2 months after the exam I got the results and I took the higher studies seat as second candidate for my college. Though I have been put through many hardships Agathiar Mahamuni protected and guided. Now I have completed my Master’s degree and joined as lecturer in a college. Even though I was confused finally his words happened correctly.

After four years I started earning now again. Mahamuni Agathiar is always there to protect us beyond all our karma only because he is the ever loving and compassionate dad for all those who seek him. He is watching us each moment. Whenever his devotees are worried and frustrated at happenings in their life, he comes in any form to give his divine guidance and strength. All we need is to follow his words, believe and wait patiently. Each time he reminds us that we are inside his protected arms and he is there to take care of every single happening. The real essence of compassion and love can be felt for those who believe and trust him.

SEEING THINGS ANEW

When I go for my daily morning walks and occasional evening walks, many join me in my neighborhood park. But only a handful interact while many turn to look away, avoiding eye contact. Maybe that is the nature of city dwellers.

When I went for the Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) courses, I realized all these simple everyday gestures and body language had a meaning to it. I learnt that by becoming aware of ourselves, we could incorporate them in our lives in a positive manner.

Then we were taught to think out of the box. I was amazed to see that these exercises brought a whole new perspective to the way I saw things till then. 

The NLP practitioner picked up a credit card and raised it in full view of us, or that is what I thought till then. He then asked each of us to describe the card that he held in his hand. The one sitting straight in front of him said he saw a line. The one to one side of him described in detail the printed words and graphics on the front of the card while the others seated on the other side described the back of the card. Then I realized that the subject was the same but when we see things from where we are, it appears different to each one of us; we see it in a different perspective;from a different angle. All the descriptions given by all of us was absolutely correct although it varied due to where we sat.

I learnt that day that all opinions are right from the perspective of that person, which is based or derived from his upbringing; the society he lived in; the knowledge that he had about that subject; his personal experiences; that would all go towards tainting or enhancing each person's opinion.

Then we were given another exercise. We were asked to draw an elephant. Since I was good at drawing I drew a beautiful detailed picture of an elephant that filled the A3 size paper given to us. It was shown to all and I gathered praises from my fellow course-mates and the practitioner. As usual I gave a tug on my collar hearing the appraisals pour in. Then there was one who drew a tiny picture of an elephant that almost disappeared from sight in the white sheet of paper. Another drew his version of the elephant so large that its body partially went beyond the edges of the given sheet. Yet another 's depiction of an elephant turned out to look more like a mouse. It was fun seeing each person's ability to put on paper what they saw or had retained in their memory. 

Then the practitioner said he will now draw an elephant. He took his marker and placed a dot on a clean sheet of paper. "That is it!", he told us it was done. Now where is the elephant we asked him? He replied that that was his graphic representation of an elephant seen from outer space. And I realized that he was absolutely right.

Then he gave us a long list of items that we had to carry on our make belief journey by ship to a fake destination. He told us to list according to priority and importance, what would we throw off the ship, if in event the ship was to sink.  I put on my thinking cap and started crunching my brain, deciding which item should go first. At the end of the task each of us presented our list to the class and explained why we chose to dispose them. Finally the teacher came up to us and reprimanded us, as to why we did not figure out to us those items to our advantage and plug the hole in the ship? That came as a blow! We never thought of using the things on hand to our advantage! 

At the end of the course I came back a changed person, realizing how our outlook has been conditioned by our thinking, the society and other factors. I was trained to see things differently that day.

So when someone from the audience questioned CN Paramasivam if he could show god right there in the midst of his talk in London, Paramasivam replied that he could and in turn put a question back to the questioner. Paramasivam asked what was god according to his concept and received a favourable answer - that he was omnipresent and omnipotent. Fine. Then he put another question to the questioner, "Where are we now?" "In London", came the reply. Paramasivam questioned him if he could show London to all in the audience there and then. The questioner replied, "How am I to show you London now?" Paramasivam said that he could - on an atlas. But the questioner replied that it was only a pictorial representation of London. Then Paramasivam invited him to take a flight above London city and then he could show him the whole of London. Paramasivam told him that you need to leave London to see London. Similarly Paramasivam asked the questioner to take him to a place where god isn't there so that he could turn back and show him god.

We do not know whats beyond the blind corner or whats beyond the next ridge. Just as you do not know the extent of damage done by logging unless you take a flight over the forest, you have to be at a different altitude to see the world in full view; you have to step out of the problem to see a solution to it, the reason we have an arbitrator or a third party to settle our disputes; and you have to be unaffected by the situation to provide a just and fair opinion. 

The Siddhas are able to look around the corner and beyond the cliff as they are watching from a different plane. Watching us they have full view of time and space before them hence are able to give us a long list of possibilities that could take place in the future and at the same time can provide a detailed revelation of every single minute moment in the past. We need to learn to use this predictions wisely, sensibly, and with caution, working towards positive goals that are not selfish in nature but rather those that will bring common good to mankind and nature alike. 

Life would be pleasant if we learn to take on thing at a time. Thinking about the future might make some apprehensive and fearful. Thinking about the past might create bitterness and anger towards others. If at all there is a need to look towards the future, bring in positive vibes and thoughts. If at all there is a need to think and dwell over the past, think about the good and happy moments that you went through.

Jiminy Cricket's recipe for living carries much truth.

Everyone keeps askin'me 

My recipe for livin' 

It's simple as the ABC's 

And hardly seems worth givin' 

I've tried it out in every way 

It always sees me through 

It's made me what I am today 

That's why I'm tellin' you 

I'm a happy-go-lucky fellow 

Ooh, doo, doo, doo 

Full of fun and fancy-free 

Doo, doo, doo 

You can make the whole world seem mellow 

If you take it in your stride like me 

Ooh, doo, doo 

Don't cross a bridge or peek 'round the corner 

Until you're there 

Just learn to smile and in a while

Doo, doo

You'll find trouble's a bubble of air 

Get a happy-go-lucky feelin'

Doo 

Keep it and I guarantee 

Ooh 

That you'll find you'll wind up livin' in the sun 

So right 

Full of fun and fancy-free 

Full of fun and fancy-free 

That's the way I wanna be 

I don't let my troubles trouble me 

Now some folks like the heavy stuff 

With titles five feet wide 

Not me, I'm always out for fun 

Doo, doo, doo 

I like the lighter side, yes, sir 

Hooray 

La, da, da, dee, la, da, da, dee 

Don't let my troubles trouble me 

Don't cross a bridge or peek 'round the corner 

Until you're there

Just learn to smile and in a while 

You'll find trouble's a bubble of air 

Get a happy-go-lucky feelin'

("I'm a happy-go-lucky fellow" from Disney's Fun and Fancy Free written by Ned Washington and Eliot Daniel, performed by Cliff Edwards)

SPEAKING THE MASTERS' FAME

The first time I saw the Nadi I gave my thumb print impression to aid in locating it. In that reading Agathiyar had told me to help towards building temples and build one for him too. I felt exalted and elevated thinking I was the chosen one. Suddenly the late Sivabalan of Agathiyan Shelter in whose home the reading was done, brought me down to earth stating that this directive had appeared in some fifty Nadi readings for fifty people before me. But he did advice me that if I had the capability, carry it out, as none have complied to Agathiyar's wish till then. I was not so special after all.

The rests of the readings were from Agathiyar's Aasi Nool where the most compassionate father called me in if he had a message for me. Of course I tugged on my collar thinking I was special and both blessed and gifted. Then I learnt that many were called in to receive his blessings from the Aasi Nool. I was not so special after all.

I was proud that I had seen the Nadi fifty one times to date. I used to mention that in this blog and whenever people asked me my frequency in going for a reading. They are amazed on learning that Agathiyar calls me for a reading regularly. Then Vivek from Pune mentions to us in our Whatsapp group that he had seen it 500 times! My jaws dropped. I could not belief my ears, but it was true he said. Then he drops a bombshell saying Manojji from Gujarat had seen it 3,000 times! My jaws dropped even further as did Genie's in Walt Disney's version of Aladdin. I went into hiding that day! I was not so special after all.

Today as I shared AVM's agenda for the future with Arul, we shared our views on several matters including our aid to the homes and homeless. Finally we spoke about our experiences in going hiking. I pulled up my collar again and spoke about my achievements in walking the neighborhood park, and covering higher terrains including the Broga hills. Then Arul spoke about his active involvement in bringing aid to the victims of the countries hit by the Tsunami wave in 2004. He spoke about getting lost for two days, getting washed away by the river current, hitting his head against a boulder and sustaining injury among many other experiences during his solo or duo expeditions to Gunung Ledang and Gunung Tahan. Listening to him I went into hiding again.

I realized each time I begin to inflate my ego thinking that I was special or had contributed a whole lot Agathiyar gives me a blow in the face. That is what the master or guru is supposed to do. He has to keep his student under reins lest he forgot his standing.

If he had earlier listed out in his Manumurai Kanda Vasagam his possible past actions that could have constituted as sins and a reason to be born again and again, Ramalinga Adigal in his Muraiyeedu (Thiruarutpa), most modestly sings that he does not know a thing. In a society that claims it knows all, here is a saint who admits to the Lord that he knows not and yearns for his grace.

மருந்தறியேன் மணிஅறியேன் மந்திரம்ஒன் றறியேன் 

மதிஅறியேன் விதிஅறியேன் வாழ்க்கைநிலை அறியேன் 

திருந்தறியேன் திருவருளின் செயலறியேன் அறந்தான் 

செய்தறியேன் மனமடங்கும் திறத்தினில்ஓர் இடத்தே 

இருந்தறியேன் அறிந்தோரை ஏத்திடவும் அறியேன் 

எந்தைபிரான் மணிமன்றம் எய்தஅறி வேனோ 

இருந்ததிசை சொலஅறியேன் எங்ஙனம்நான் புகுவேன் 

யார்க்குரைப்பேன் என்னசெய்வேன் ஏதும்அறிந் திலனே. 

அகங்காரக் கொடுங்கிழங்கை அகழ்ந்தெறிய அறியேன் 

அறிவறிந்த அந்தணர்பால் செறியும்நெறி அறியேன் 

நகங்கானம் உறுதவர்போல் நலம்புரிந்தும் அறியேன் 

நச்சுமரக் கனிபோல இச்சைகனிந் துழல்வேன் 

மகங்காணும் புலவரெலாம் வந்துதொழ நடிக்கும் 

மணிமன்றந் தனைஅடையும் வழியும்அறி வேனோ 

இகங்காணத் திரிகின்றேன் எங்ஙனம்நான் புகுவேன் 

யார்க்குரைப்பேன் என்னசெய்வேன் ஏதும்அறிந் திலனே.

கற்குமுறை கற்றறியேன் கற்பனகற் றறிந்த 

கருத்தர்திருக் கூட்டத்தில் களித்திருக்க அறியேன் 

நிற்குநிலை நின்றறியேன் நின்றாரின் நடித்தேன் 

நெடுங்காமப் பெருங்கடலை நீந்தும்வகை அறியேன் 

சிற்குணமா மணிமன்றில் திருநடனம் புரியும் 

திருவடிஎன் சென்னிமிசைச் சேர்க்கஅறி வேனோ 

இற்குணஞ்செய் துழல்கின்றேன் எங்ஙனம்நான் புகுவேன் 

யார்க்குரைப்பேன் என்னசெய்வேன் ஏதும்அறிந் திலனே. 

தேகமுறு பூதநிலைத் திறம்சிறிதும் அறியேன் 

சித்தாந்த நிலைஅறியேன் சித்தநிலைஅறியேன் 

யோகமுறு நிலைசிறிதும் உணர்ந்தறியேன் சிறியேன் 

உலகநடை யிடைக்கிடந்தே உழைப்பாரில் கடையேன் 

ஆகமுறு திருநீற்றின் ஒளிவிளங்க அசைந்தே 

அம்பலத்தில் ஆடுகின்ற அடியைஅறி வேனோ 

ஏகஅனு பவம்அறியேன் எங்ஙனம்நான் புகுவேன் 

யார்க்குரைப்பேன் என்னசெய்வேன் ஏதும்அறிந் திலனே.

வேதாந்த நிலைநாடி விரைந்துமுயன் றறியேன் 

மெய்வகையும் கைவகையும் செய்வகையும் அறியேன் 

நாதாந்தத் திருவீதி நடந்திடுதற் கறியேன் 

நான்ஆர்என் றறியேன்எங் கோன்ஆர்என் றறியேன் 

போதாந்தத் திருநாடு புகஅறியேன் ஞான 

பூரணா காயம்எனும் பொதுவைஅறி வேனோ 

ஏதாந்தீ யேன்சரிதம் எங்ஙனம்நான் புகுவேன் 

யார்க்குரைப்பேன் என்னசெய்வேன் ஏதும்அறிந் திலனே. 

கலைமுடிவு கண்டறியேன் கரணமெலாம் அடக்கும் 

கதிஅறியேன் கதிஅறிந்த கருத்தர்களை அறியேன் 

கொலைபுலைகள் விடுத்தறியேன் கோபமறுத் தறியேன் 

கொடுங்காமக் கடல்கடக்கும் குறிப்பறியேன் குணமாம் 

மலைமிசைநின் றிடஅறியேன் ஞானநடம் புரியும் 

மணிமன்றந் தனைஅடையும் வழியும்அறி வேனோ 

இலைஎனும்பொய் உலகினிடை எங்ஙனம்நான் புகுவேன் 

யார்க்குரைப்பேன் என்னசெய்வேன் ஏதும்அறிந் திலனே. 

சாதிமதம் சமயம்எனும் சங்கடம்விட் டறியேன் 

சாத்திரச்சே றாடுகின்ற சஞ்சலம்விட் டறியேன் 

ஆதிஅந்த நிலையறியேன் அலைஅறியாக் கடல்போல் 

ஆனந்தப் பெரும்போகத் தமர்ந்திடவும் அறியேன் 

நீதிநெறி நடந்தறியேன் சோதிமணிப் பொதுவில் 

நிருத்தமிடும் ஒருத்தர்திருக் கருத்தைஅறி வேனோ 

ஏதிலர்சார் உலகினிடை எங்ஙனம்நான் புகுவேன் 

யார்க்குரைப்பேன் என்னசெய்வேன் ஏதும்அறிந் திலனே. 

சாகாத தலைஅறியேன் வேகாத காலின் 

தரம்அறியேன் போகாத தண்­ரை அறியேன் 

ஆகாய நிலைஅறியேன் மாகாய நிலையும் 

அறியேன்மெய்ந் நெறிதனைஓர் அணுஅளவும் அறியேன் 

மாகாத லுடையபெருந் திருவாளர் வழுத்தும் 

மணிமன்றந் தனைஅடையும் வழியும்அறி வேனோ 

ஏகாய உலகினிடை எங்ஙனம்நான் புகுவேன் 

யார்க்குரைப்பேன் என்னசெய்வேன் ஏதும்அறிந் திலனே. 

தத்துவம்என் வசமாகத் தான்செலுத்த அறியேன் 

சாகாத கல்விகற்கும் தரஞ்சிறிதும் அறியேன் 

அத்தநிலை சத்தநிலை அறியேன்மெய் அறிவை 

அறியேன்மெய் அறிந்தடங்கும் அறிஞரையும் அறியேன் 

சுத்தசிவ சன்மார்க்கத் திருப்பொதுவி னிடத்தே 

தூயநடம் புரிகின்ற ஞாயமறி வேனோ 

எத்துணையும் குணமறியேன் எங்ஙனம்நான் புகுவேன் 

யார்க்குரைப்பேன் என்னசெய்வேன் ஏதும்அறிந் திலனே. 

வரைஅபர மார்க்கமொடு பரமார்க்கம் அறியேன் 

மரணபயம் தவிர்த்திடுஞ்சன் மார்க்கமதை அறியேன் 

திரையறுதண் கடலறியேன் அக்கடலைக் கடைந்தே 

தெள்ளமுதம் உணவறியேன் சினமடக்க அறியேன் 

உரைஉணர்வு கடந்ததிரு மணிமன்றந் தனிலே 

ஒருமைநடம் புரிகின்றார் பெருமைஅறி வேனோ 

இரையுறுபொய் உலகினிடை எங்ஙனம்நான் புகுவேன் 

யார்க்குரைப்பேன் என்னசெய்வேன் ஏதும்அறிந் திலனே. 

Marunthariyeen maniariyeen manthiramon rariyeen

mathiariyeen vithiariyeen vaazkkain-ilai ariyeen

thirunthariyeen thiruvarulin seyalariyeen aranthaan

seythariyeen manamatangkum thiraththiniloor itaththee

irunthariyeen arinthoorai eeththitavum ariyeen

enthaipiraan manimanram eythaari veenoo

irunthathisai solaariyeen engnganamn-aan pukuveen

yaarkkuraippeen ennaseyveen eethumarin- thilanee. 

Akangkaarak kotungkizangkai akazntheriya ariyeen

arivarintha anthanarpaal seriyumn-eri ariyeen

n-akangkaanam uruthavarpool n-alampurinthum ariyeen

n-assumarak kanipoola issaikanin- thuzalveen

makangkaanum pulavarelaam vanthuthoza n-atikkum

manimanran- thanaiataiyum vaziyumari veenoo

ikangkaanath thirikinreen engnganamn-aan pukuveen

yaarkkuraippeen ennaseyveen eethumarin- thilanee. 

Karkumurai karrariyeen karpanakar rarintha

karuththarthiruk kuuttaththil kaliththirukka ariyeen

n-irkun-ilai n-inrariyeen n-inraarin n-atiththeen

n-etungkaamap perungkatalai n-iinthumvakai ariyeen

sirkunamaa manimanril thirun-atanam puriyum

thiruvatien sennimisais seerkkaari veenoo

irkunanjsey thuzalkinreen engnganamn-aan pukuveen

yaarkkuraippeen ennaseyveen eethumarin- thilanee. 

Theekamuru puuthan-ilaith thiramsirithum ariyeen

siththaantha n-ilaiariyeen siththan-ilaiariyeen

yookamuru n-ilaisirithum unarnthariyeen siriyeen

ulakan-atai yitaikkitanthee uzaippaaril kataiyeen

aakamuru thirun-iirrin olivilangka asainthee

ampalaththil aatukinra atiyaiari veenoo

eekaanu pavamariyeen engnganamn-aan pukuveen

yaarkkuraippeen ennaseyveen eethumarin- thilanee.

Veethaantha n-ilain-aati virainthumuyan rariyeen

meyvakaiyum kaivakaiyum seyvakaiyum ariyeen

n-aathaanthath thiruviithi n-atanthituthar kariyeen

n-aanaaren rariyeeneng koonaaren rariyeen

poothaanthath thirun-aatu pukaariyeen njaana

puuranaa kaayamenum pothuvaiari veenoo

eethaanthii yeensaritham engnganamn-aan pukuveen

yaarkkuraippeen ennaseyveen eethumarin- thilanee. 

Kalaimutivu kantariyeen karanamelaam atakkum

kathiariyeen kathiarintha karuththarkalai ariyeen

kolaipulaikal vituththariyeen koopamaruth thariyeen

kotungkaamak katalkatakkum kurippariyeen kunamaam

malaimisain-in ritaariyeen njaanan-atam puriyum

manimanran- thanaiataiyum vaziyumari veenoo

ilaienumpoy ulakinitai engnganamn-aan pukuveen

yaarkkuraippeen ennaseyveen eethumarin- thilanee.

Saathimatham samayamenum sangkatamvit tariyeen

saaththirassee raatukinra sanjsalamvit tariyeen

aathiantha n-ilaiyariyeen alaiariyaak katalpool

aananthap perumpookath thamarnthitavum ariyeen

n-iithin-eri n-atanthariyeen soothimanip pothuvil

n-iruththamitum oruththarthiruk karuththaiari veenoo

eethilarsaar ulakinitai engnganamn-aan pukuveen

yaarkkuraippeen ennaseyveen eethumarin- thilanee. 

Saakaatha thalaiariyeen veekaatha kaalin

tharamariyeen pookaatha than­rai ariyeen

aakaaya n-ilaiariyeen maakaaya n-ilaiyum

ariyeenmeyn- n-erithanaioor anualavum ariyeen

maakaatha lutaiyaperun- thiruvaalar vazuththum

manimanran- thanaiataiyum vaziyumari veenoo

eekaaya200 ulakinitai engnganamn-aan pukuveen

yaarkkuraippeen ennaseyveen eethumarin- thilanee. 

Thaththuvamen vasamaakath thaanseluththa ariyeen

saakaatha kalvikarkum tharanjsirithum ariyeen

aththan-ilai saththan-ilai ariyeenmey arivai

ariyeenmey arinthatangkum arinjaraiyum ariyeen

suththasiva sanmaarkkath thiruppothuvi nitaththee

thuuyan-atam purikinra njaayamari veenoo

eththunaiyum kunamariyeen engnganamn-aan pukuveen

yaarkkuraippeen ennaseyveen eethumarin- thilanee. 

Varaiapara maarkkamotu paramaarkkam ariyeen

maranapayam thavirththitunjsan maarkkamathai ariyeen

thiraiyaruthan katalariyeen akkatalaik katainthee

thellamutham unavariyeen sinamatakka ariyeen

uraiunarvu katanthathiru manimanran- thanilee

orumain-atam purikinraar perumaiari veenoo

iraiyurupoy ulakinitai engnganamn-aan pukuveen

yaarkkuraippeen ennaseyveen eethumarin- thilanee. 

Source: http://www.thiruarutpa.org/thirumurai/v/T241/tm/muraiyiitu and http://www.thiruarutpa.org/thirumurai/v/T241/romanized1/muraiyiitu

When I asked Thavathiru Kumarsamy Aiya of the Agathiyar Ashram in Anuvavi to relate his experiences since he started young at the age of eight, before the camera, he very humbly and politely refused pointing out that his guru was still around, giving due reverence to his guru Kaatthu Swami.

The stories about the masters and gurus told by the disciples has always fascinated me. And so I attempted to put together these wonderful stories of the very first moments when the student sets his eyes on his guru in "First Encounters With The Masters", some time back. I recounted my meeting with both my gurus too, Supramania Swami and Tavayogi Thangarasan Adigal and included it too.

Lately I came across Devaki Amma and Balakumaran Aiya's recollection of their guru Yogi Ramsuratkumar on video and Isaikavi Ramanan Aiya's passionate retelling of the moments he spent with his guru. It was a wonderful meeting and journey of theirs. Off course we have seen Ram Dass narrate about him meeting his guru for the first time. I never get tired of watching him speak so passionately about his guru. Then we have seen several devotees of Bhagawan Ramana share their experiences in the presence of the master.

Although I had shared these videos earlier it gives much joy in viewing them again and again.

https://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2014/01/guru-disciple-relationship.html
https://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2017/08/balakumaran-aiya-speaks-about-his.html
https://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2017/07/isaikkavi-ramanan-on-guru.html
https://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2017/07/the-guru-knows-best.html
https://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2017/07/great-masters.html
https://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2017/07/guruve-iraivan.html
https://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2017/06/guruve-sivam.html
https://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2017/05/at-sacred-feet-of-tavayogi-thangarasan_21.html
https://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2017/05/at-sacred-feet-of-tavayogi-thangarasan.html
https://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2017/03/reminiscence-on-bhagwan-sri-ramana.html
https://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2017/02/my-guru-tavayogi-thangarasan-adigal.html
https://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2017/02/my-guru-supramania-swami.html
https://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2017/01/sri-agathiyar-mentor-guru.html
https://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2016/08/the-guru-disciple.html
https://agathiyarvanam.blogspot.my/2016/08/ramana-in-eyes-of-his-devotees.html

When Acharya Gurudasan once asked me why I wasn't teaching the Yoga Asanas and breathing exercises Tavayogi taught me to others, I replied that he did not instruct me to do so. When AVM looks towards me as an Aasan or teacher, I have to remind them and myself that I am not one. I am neither qualified or could I fill the shoes of a master. A master would have all the answers to all our queries. I do not have answers to so many questions of mine let alone answer those of others. I would end up doing injustice to the true masters.

Then I have my own baggage of karma to clear so how could I possibly bring relief to another? Agathiyar tells us that even the master or guru, nay even the Divine, is bound by karma and the laws of the world, the moment they take a physical birth.

What I learnt from Tavayogi was to direct everyone to the source, the Moola Guru Agathiyar.  Just as Tavayogi introduced me to Agathiyar and stepped aside, I in turn ask them to build a bond between them and Agathiyar and let him guide them without having to rely on another. Let us surrender whole heartedly and let the Divine work through us.

Surata Kavacham on Yogi Ramsuratkumar