Sri Venkatachala Mahathyam (wedding chapter 104-112)

Lord Kubera

104) Sri Bhagavan:-
Sabhaayaam Kimidam Proktham Pourusheyna Vachashshiva!
Ko Vaadya Runadaathaasthi Vivaahasyaasya Pushkalam!!

Meaning:Lord Srinivasa said,"Rudra! You are talking so vehemently in this assembly! Now who will give us required money to conduct this marriage?..

105)Purushaha Pourusham Yathnam Aachareynnaiva Bhashayeth!
Evamukthvaa Shivam Praaha Kuberam Purushoththamaha!!

Meaning:Man should act instead of speaking loftily!" Having said thus, Lord Srinivasa addressed Lord Kubera (God of wealth)....

106)Nimiththam Varthathey Kinchi Ditha Ehi Dhanaadhipa!
Ithyevamuktho Dhanadaha Pithaamahasamanvithaha!!

Meaning:"O Lord of wealth! I have a job for you, please come here!", on being summoned, Lord Kubera along with Lord Brahma....

107)Samuththasdhau SabhaamadhyaathThvaritham Shivasamyuthaha!
Brahmanaa Sa Kubeyreyna Shankareyna Ramaapathihi!!

Meaning:Stood up hurriedly. Accompanied by Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma, Lord Kubera followed Lord Srinivasa....

108)Ekaanthey Swaamitheerthasya Pashchimeyshwaththasannidhau!
Gathvovaacha Dhaneyshaanaam Sreenivaasaha Sathaam Gathihi!!

Meaning:To the western side of the lake Swami Pushkarini, at a secluded place near the banyan tree. The protector of all....

109)Sreenivaasaha:-
Saadhayasva Mahaabhaaga! Kalyaanam Mey Kalau Yugey!
Dathvaa Dhanam Yaavadishtam Puthrasya Naravaahana!!

Meaning:Lord Srinivasa said:- "Kubera! Please lend required amount of money to Lord Brahma for conducting my marriage in this "Kali Yuga"!

110)Vaasudevavachaha Shruthvaa Vasupaalobraveedhdhareem!!
Kuberaha::-
Thvadadheenam Deva! Sarvam Jagadeythachcharaacharam!!

Meaning:On hearing the Lord speak thus, Kubera spoke,"O Lord! The entire Universe is in your control!....

111)Bahoonaam Jeevaraasheenaam Madhye Koham Jagathpathey!
Niyojitheyna Bhavathaa Rakshitham Thvaddhanam Mayaa!!

Meaning:Am I not insignificant among the crores of living beings in this Universe?! I am at your command and the Guardian of Your wealth....

112)Thaddaanaa Daanayoho Shakthihi Mama Nasthi Khagadwaja!
Graheethaa Thvam Cha Daathaa Cha Svathanthrothra Thvameyva Hi!!

Meaning:I am not eligible to lend you the wealth nor claim the wealth as mine! You have all rights to claim the wealth as your own or to gift the wealth to others!!"

The Divine Bird!

Learned scholars and pundits are aware of the fact that Lord Krishna had never cohabitated with any of His 16,000 wives. It is blasphemous to view Lord Krishna as a mere human being in whatever sphere of His 'Avathaara'.. His Divine presence and "saanghathyam" (company) gave Ultimate contentment and joy to all His 16,000 wives. His divinity was overpowering, throwing open flood gates of overflowing love residing in the center of the hearts of all His wives.
This pure and divine love is termed as "Bhakthi Yoga", which is sublime and not in the least related to physical desire or chemistry. The peacock feather adorning Lord Krishna's forehead depicts the purity of the Lord. Hindu mytholgy claims that peacocks are pure and chaste. It is also largely believed that a peahen conceives by consuming the teardrops of a peacock in order to maintain the pristine purity of the peacock.
Peacock is also the 'vaahana' (vehicle) of Lord Subrahmanya Swami. The Lord was seated on a peacock when He fought Surapadma.
A certain section of tribals firmly believe that Goddess Saraswathi changed Her "vaahana" from the Swan to a Peacock!
In Ramayana, Sage Valmiki has stated that Bharatha was assisted by peacock breeders called Mayoorakaas when he went in search of Lord Rama during His exile in forest. Separated from Sita, Lord Rama expresses His grief to His brother, Lakshmana. In His conversation, Lord Rama makes a special mention of the affinity between a peacock and peahen lamenting that He was not as fortunate as the peacock which is inseparable from the ever-loving peahen! During their separation, Lord Rama recalled how Sita clapped her hands daintily to the dancing steps of a majestic peacock on the branch of a "Kadambaa Tree". That particular peacock became as dear as a son to Lord Rama.
Peacock represents the spring season. The joyous dance of peacock is associated with this most romantic and aesthetic season. The ragas Vasantha and Brindavani are strongly associated with this bird and are said to invoke the beautiful peacock dance, as it spreads its enchanting feathers!

The note "C" in the western music and the shadjamam of Indian classical music are described as the voice of the peacock by renowned musical treatises. Even veenas are made with peacock heads in the place of lion heads.

Sri Venkatachala Mahathyam (wedding chapter 94-103)

94)Brahma:=
Kruthvaa Punyaahakarmaani Prathishtaapya Kuleshvareem!
Nopavaaseyna Govinda! Ganthavyamithi Mey Mathihi!!

Meaning:Lord Brahma said, "Having performed all the auspicious rituals like the 'naming ceremony' ("Punyah Vachanam") and installed your Kula Devatha, which is the Samee Vruksham, O Lord Govinda, please do not fast and travel on an empty stomach! This is my opinion..

95)Munayaha Kshudhithaassarvey Baalavrudhdaadayasthadhaa!
Vadathyevam Chathurvakthrey Chakrapanirabhaashitha!!

Meaning:Children, women folk and all the monks are hungry!" as Lord Brahma tried to convince....

96)Srinivaasaha:-
Vachanaani Mahaarhaani Thava Puthra! Pithaamaha!
Kadham Kaaryamakaaryancha Naiva Jaanaasi Puthraka!!

Meaning:Lord Srinivasa said,"Dear Son, O Four-Faced One, Your words are invaluable!But how is it that You are unaware of the good and bad of a situation?...

97)Deshakaalaavanaalochya Bhaashasey Baalisho Yadhaa!
Dravyaanaamayutham Thaatha! Gatham Mey Kaananey Girau!!

Meaning:You are ignorant of the ways of the world and you are talking like an unintelligent man! On the hills amidst the deep woods, thousands of my properties were destroyed!....

98)Evam Vyayam Samaapannam Kadham Pashyasi Chakshushaa!
Gnyaathvaapi Rikthathaam Vaachaa Thveyvamukthey Kadham Bhaveth!!

Meaning:Have not you seen the loss of much property with your own eyes?! Having known about poverty, how could you speak like this?!"

99)Vadathyevam Svapithari Brahmaa Lokapithaamahaha!
Thooshnimabhoonmahaaraaka! Bhagavathpurathasthadaa!!

Meaning:Lord Brahma listened silently while Lord Srinivasa was speaking.

100)Neelakanthobraveedvaakyam Pitharam Svapithusthathaha!
Neelakantha:-
Shrothavyam Vachanam Thaatha! Mama Balasya Maadhava!!

Meaning:Lord Shiva addressed His Father, Lord Srinivasa, "Srinivasa! As your son I request you to listen to my words!...

101)Vivaahakaraney Deyva! Thadhaa Bhavanakarmani!
Praarabdhasyaanthaparyantham Yo Hi Yathnam Samaachareth!!

Meaning:While performing a wedding or a house-warming ceremony, an ideal man would perform all the necessary rituals unfailingly as his duties.....

102)Sa Eva Punyavaan Lokey Keerthimeythi Na Samshayaha!
Sampaadyaaha Sarvasambhaaraaha Shubhakaaryeshu Pushkalaaha!!

Meaning:Undoubtedly such a man is most fortunate and will attain great name and fame! It is necessary to gather abundant goods and articles for performing auspicious ceremonies...

103)Bahulaardhavya Thadabhaavey Thvrunam Chareth!
Sa Shambhuvachanam Shruthvaa Shambaraaripithaabraveeth!!

Meaning:For accumulating articles and things needed to perform an auspicious ceremony such as this, wastage of any amount of money should not be taken into account! When somebody cannot afford so much money, He should atleast acquire loan to be able to perform all the necessary rituals!" As Lord Shiva spoke, Lord Srinivasa....

Sri Venkatachala Mahathyam (wedding chapter85-93)

Above is a photograph of the temple of Lord Sreenivasa and Goddess Padmavathi's wedding, Narayanavanam

85)Varaahavachanam Shruthvaa Vaasudevobhyabhaashitha!
Sreenivasaha:- Kuladeveeprathishtaancha Karishye Sharaney Thava!!

Meaning:Lord Sreenivasa told Lord Varaha Swami,"I shall place my Kuladeivam, Shamee tree close to You, here itself!"

86)Ithyevam Praardhayantham Tham Sreenivaasam Paraathparam!
'Thadhaasthvi Thyabraveedraajan!' Kolaroopee Harissvayam!!

Meaning:Lord Varaha Swami agreed with Lord Sreenivasa, Who is the Lord of the Universe!

87)Kalashey Swarnakhachithey Mukthaaraashim Prapoorya Cha!
Vasthreyna Veyshtayithvaadha Poojaam Kruthvaa Vidhaanathaha!!

Meaning:Taking a gold pot (kalasham) filled with pearls and covered by fine fabric, worshipping the same reverentially....

88)Prathishtaapya Varaahasya Sannidhau Praakrutho Yadhaa!
Swashthaanam Punaraagathya Sreenivaasaha Sathaam Gathihi!!

Meaning:Like a common man, installing the Shamee tree along with the golden pot close to Lord Varaha;Lord Sreenivasa returned to His place...

89)KUBERAACHREENIVAASAKRUTHASVAPARINAYAARDHARUNAADAANAPRAKAARAHA

Abhojaneyna Ganthavyam Naaraayanapuraahvayam!
'Aakaasharaajanagara' mithi Nishchithya Cheythasi!!

Meaning:Even without having His meals, Lord Sreenivasa decided to go to Narayanapuram which is the township where King Aakaasha Raja (Goddess Padmavathy's father) resided...

90)Brahmaanamabraveethraajan! Thvarayaa Gamaney Rathaha!
Sreenivasaha:-
Vidhey! Dyaiva Niyukshvaithaam Seynaam They Chathurangineem!!

Meaning:Lord Sreenivasa was eager to start His journey to Narayanapuram, He requested Lord Brahma, "Chathuraananaa, Organise an army consisting of immense strength (all the vital four strengths) to accompany me in the journey...

91)Sheeghram Ganthum Chathurvakthra! Naaraayanapuram Prathi!
Maa Bhoothkaalo Vrudhai Vaathra Doorodhvaa Hyasya Varthathey!!

Meaning:Aakaasha Raja's city, Narayanapuram is very far away from here. Let us not waste anymore time!...

92)Balam Sarvey Vaney Thaatha! Vrudhdabaalaabalaanvitham!
Shanairgachchathu Raajendra! Munimandalapoorvakam!!

Meaning:Let the old people, children and women be accompanied by the army that has been allotted for the group of pious monks!"

93)SaThasya Vachanam Shruthvaa Chakrapaaneyshchathurmukhaha!
Vachanam Vyaaharachcheeghram Pitharam Purushoththamam!!

Meaning:Lord Srinivasa spoke thus. After listening to what Lord Srinivasa had to say, Lord Brahma spoke as follows to Lord Srinivasa who was his Father....

Karma control!

Above is an image of planet MarsMars has been in debilitation in Cancer for nearly 6 months (right from October 2009-May 26th 2010). Mars being a fiery planet, its debilitation generally causes world wide disturbances on the political arena, terrorism, aggressive tendencies in women and children (Cancer being a moon sign), crime rates and general violence. Thankfully Jupiter's transit in Pisces from May 2nd till Mars's departure from Cancer on May 26th could slow down the aggressive Mars, the fifth aspect of Jupiter on Mars is most welcomed by Aries, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn and Pisces signs.
No science is superior to God:-
"Sooryendubhouma Budhavaakpathi Kaavya Souri
Swarbhaanukethu Divishathparishathpradaanaa
Twaddaasa Daasa Charamaavadhi Daasadaasa
Sri Venkatachalapathey! Thava Suprabhaatham!"The sloka above (from Sri Venkateswara Suprabhaatham) states that all the planets are subservient to the Lord, directed and maneuvered by Him While unconditionally accepting the above, astrology could still be viewed as a very relevant science. The Law of Karma being the determining factor behind the planetary alignment in one's natal chart, I strongly believe that our good deeds could strengthen the weak planets in our natal charts, likewise sins and bad deeds could contaminate the best 'yoga' in one's natal charts.
A business man who ran into tough times and bankruptsy knew just how to get his fortune back. He simply shut down everything (his residence and his business) and went away to a lepers' colony to serve them. He spent nearly 6 months serving the lepers dedicatedly. On his return, he found that his business not only picked up momentum rapidly, but flourished like never before!
Even small gestures add upto good Karma. A simple smile invokes good karma! Regardless of whether it is a salesperson from a famous brand name, hellbent on demonstrating his vacuum cleaner and water filter (never mind if you don't want to buy it, he is only obsessed with demonstrating the item), or the innumerable couriers you have sign for in a day - wedding invitations ,arangetram invitations etc. etc.,umpteen wrong numbers one receives on the landline, the servant not turning up on one of your crucial days, the list is too long to complete; the bottomline is-SMILE kindly at everybody! It is true that even a frown or a minor show of irritation (that could hurt many sensitve souls like me) adds up to bad karma. Smile even when you are simmering within. After all, doesn't every religion demand the same thing? Smiling comes easily when you know that it can lessen the intensity of a bad planet in your natal chart!
Serving a cause, a sickly person, keeping company with a lonely person, offering solace and comfort to destitutes, emotionally deprived and abused people, being generally kind, helpful etc. nullifies bad planetary alignment and their consequences in one's natal chart.
The following are the best ways to get out of misfortune:
1)Healing a sick person (it could be through Pranic or Reiki, charging a reasonable fee for healing is perfectly alright).
2)Feeding a hungry or an under nourished person.
3)Offering shelter.
4)Keeping company with old and neglected people and orphans.
5) Serving handicapped or terminally ill people.
General patience, kindness, generosity, love and warmth contribute towards enhancing one's fortune in life! Not to mention that optimism and positive thinking literally eradicate doshas from one's natal chart.
This posting started with the lengthy transit of debilitated Mars in Cancer, to enter Leo on May 26th and to stay there till July 20th, 2010. How is it going to be for the 12 moon signs while Mars transits Leo?

Mesha Rasi (transit in 5th house) (Aswini 4 padams, Bharani 4 padams, Krittika 1st padam):-
Fever, futile and unnecessary worries, if having progeny, anxiety due to them. Misunderstandings and clashes with one's children, strife and jealousy.

Vrishabha Rasi (transit in 4th house)-(Krittika 3 padams, Rohini 4 padams and Mrigasira 2 padams):-
Lack of happiness and peace, loss of position and humiliation. Mother should be taken care of.

Mithuna Rasi (transit in 3rd house)- (Mrigasira 2 padams, Ardra 4 padams, Punarvasu 3 padams):-
Happiness through victory, success and enjoyment. Extremely favourable transit.

Kataka Rasi (transit in 2nd house)-(Punarvasu 1 padam, Pushyami 4 padams, Aslesha 4 padams):-
Loss of wealth, aggressive speech, arguments and quarrels.

Simha Rasi (transit in 1st house)- (Makham 4 padams, Poorva Phalguni 4 padams, Uttara Phalguni 1 padam):-
Dejection and separation from loved ones. Blood impurities and diseases related to the same.

Kanya Rasi (transit in 12th house)-(Uttara Phalguni 3 padams, Hastha 4 padams, Chittha 2 padams):-
Misunderstandings with wife, quarrels and lack of sleep, restlessness of mind, tiresome travels to distant places.

Thula Rasi (transit in 11th house)-(Chittha 2 padams, Swathi 4 padams, Vishakha 3 padams):-
Financial gains, freedom from diseases, gaining properties, contentment and good health.

Vrischika Rasi (transit in 10th house) ( Vishakha 1 padam, Anuradha 4 padams, Jyeshta 4 padams):-
Obstacles in work, tedious works, health problems, generally unfavourable transit.

Dhanush Rasi (transit in 9th house)- (Moola 4 padams, Poorvashadha 4 padams, Uttarashadha 1 padam):-
Humiliation, loss of position, tremendous body weakness, wastage of dhatus in body and energy and dispirited attitude.

Makara Rasi (transit in 8th house)- (Uttarashadha 3 padams, Shravana 4 padams, Dhanishta 2 padams):-
Insults, travel to distant places, loss of wealth, problems due to debts, blood impurities and bodily sickness.

Kumbha Rasi (transit in 7th house)- (Dhanishta 2 padams, Sathabhisha 4 padams, Poorvabhadra 3 padams):-
Loss of conjugal happiness, uterus related problems for women, problems regarding food and clothing, untimely food, eye diseases, misunderstandings with one's family.

Meena Rasi (transit in 6th house)-(Poorvabhadra 1 padam, Uttarabhadra 4 padams, Revathi 4 padams):-
Victory over enemies, freedom from diseases, conducting religious and auspicious functions, gain of wealth, success in all fields, fame, general happiness and enthusiasm. Excellent transit.

Mars being a fiery planet, the results due to its transit in unfavourable houses may sound a little scary, but as long as we know that karma depends upon our actions and that natal charts are ever changeable through attitude and behaviour, there is no cause for worrying!!
P.S:To appease Mars, prayers to Lord Subrahmanya Swami, fasting on Tuesdays and "Angarakam" in Surati are recommended.

While on Mars, the famous saying, "Men are from Mars and women are from Venus" has a contrary functioning when it comes to instant attraction and chemistry between man and woman. It is Venus in the man's chart and Mars in the woman's chart and their respective placements in mutual charts that are given primary importance in determining mutual attraction. Woman's Mars and Man's Venus in conjunction, opposition or mutual squares (kendras) cause deadly attraction and magnetic pull towards each other. In such cases the benevolent aspect of man's Jupiter on woman's Mars safe guards the woman's position, by leading to matrimony in most cases.

Spiritual action!

Above is a photograph of a snowboarderDr. Frederick Lenz's conversations with Master Fwap in "Surfing the Himalayas" are so awe-inspiring, which is not the only reason why I read the book so many times! This book literally transports me to the Divine Himalayas, I can almost feel the air turning chilly around me every time I read it!
Master Fwap is a Buddhist monk who identifies Dr. Frederick Lenz as 'the chosen one' for enlightenment. In all the preachings of Master Fwap, the best one was about the practice of perfection towards 'samyoga' through one's profession or constant job.
According to Master Fwap, in Tantric Buddhism even inanimate objects possess inherent knowledge (which the Buddhists term as 'emptiness'). Buddhist believe that all things, experiences and people are inherently empty! Tantric Buddhism further states that all physical and nonphysical things have another side, a side that is not visible to the senses or accessible to the reasoning mind. This different side can only be known and experienced intuitively by emptying one's own mind of thoughts, judgements and predispotions about life and how it works.
Master Fwap further describes Dr. Frederick Lenz's snowboarding as 'samyoga' ( the act of uniting), in which the action aimed at perfection (of performing the act of snowboarding) synchronises the doer (Dr. Frederick Lenz) and the object (the board) to a state of 'oneness'!
According to Master Fwap, the first step is to allow the action of an activity or an event to take precedence over one's point of view. That is the Tantric Buddhist way. To allow the emptiness inherent within actions and experiences to guide and shape one's choices thereby letting the actions to direct us, the actors, and not the other way around.
The Tantric Buddhist way - before beginning an activity one must always empty oneself of thoughts regarding what is to be done. Then allowing the inherent emptiness within to act as a guide instead of one's ego directing and making innumerable mistakes. One should allow oneself to be guided by the invisible principles of the Universe WITHIN one's actions! At that time there will be a perfect flow of energy in whatever one chooses to do, and there will be a grace and power present in all of one's movements. Tantric Buddhism hails such an act as perfect!

At this juncture, Master Fwap instructs Dr. Frederick Lenz,"Now you will go on your board down the mountain. But first you must make your mind still. Then allow the emptiness within your BOARD to guide you. Let it become your will. Remember, YOU are the BOARD!!! Then your ride down the mountain will be perfect action!"

To achieve the above, the aim should be towards nothing less than perfection! In the quest for perfection, man loses himself in the job at hand to the extent of naturally blending/ merging ('samyoga')with the action as well as the inanimate object he is handling! Many great instrumentalists, engineers, doctors, accountants, carpenters, electricians, mechanics, sportsmen, ......................the list includes everybody belonging to various fields, are eligible for this yoga. The bottom line is to discard ego and turn into the object ( it could be a musical instrument, sports equipment, or any gadget in relation to one's profession) towards which your actions are directed, thereby inducing power of action into the inanimate object, creating the 'samyoga' of the actor, action and the object. It is therefore not surprising that the actions of experts handling various gadgets in different fields are natural and almost involuntary! Such experts take their natural skills for granted without realizing that they have merged themselves with whatever they are handling!

Sri Venkatachala Mahathyam(wedding chapter 76-84)

Above is a photograph of Bhudevi Sametha Sri Varaha Swami

76)Ithi Sampraardhya Deveyshaha Kuladeyveem Suraarchithaam!
Archayithvaa Vidhaneyna Skandhamalpam Maheepathey!!

Meaning:Lord Srinivasa followed all the necessary procedures for prayers of the tree which is worshipped by the Divine clan (Devas). After that, He plucked a small branch from the tree...

77)Nikruthya Shirasaa Dhruthvaa Vaadithraanaam Swaneyna Cha!
Poorayannambaram Sarvam Punaha Swasthaanamaagathaha!!

Meaning:And wore it on His head, and accompanied by auspicious instrumental music, He returned to His throne.

78)Srinivaasaha :
:Saa Kuthra Sthaapyathey Brahman ! Vasishta ! Kuladeyvikaa"!
Vadathyevam Vaasudeyvey Vasishtam Vasudhaadhipa!!

Meaning: Lord Srinivasa asked,"Vasishta! Where should I place this tree (Samee Vruksham) which is my 'Kula Deivam'? While He asked...

79)Sree Naaradaha:
Varaahasharaney Deyva Sthaapyathaam Kuladeyvathaa!!

Meaning:Narada said,'Lord Srinivasa, please keep the tree where Lord Varaha is placed!..

80)Yasmin Sthaaney Svakam Dhaama Thathra Thaam Krishna! Poojayeth!
Evam Vidvanmatham Poorvam Nirmitham Parameyshtinaa!!

Meaning:....As each and everything has a place of its own, it is mandatory to place the Divine tree where it belongs for the purpose of worshipping, as opined by the elders and as decided by Lord Brahma.'

81)Sa Naaradavachaha Shruthvaa Vasishtasahitho Harihi!
Varaahasharanam Gathvaa Vacha Ethaththamabraveeth!

Meaning: When Narada told as above, Lord Srinivasa, along with Sage Vasishta went to the place where Lord Varaha resided and told Him as follows:..

82)Sreenivaasaha:
Prasaadaaththava Govinda!Vivaaham Karthumuthsukaha!
Sahitho Dharayaa Saardham Thvamaagachcha Nrupaalayam!!

Meaning:"Govinda! I wish to marry with Your blessings and Divine Grace! I invite you and Bhudevi to the residence of Aakaasha Raja..

83)Gurusthvam Sarvalokaanaam Kruthakruthyancha Maam Kuru!
Sreenivaasavachaha Shruthvaa Bhoodharo Vaakyamabraveeth!!

Meaning:You are the Guru (Acharya) of the entire Universe! I want to fulfill all my duties with you Divine Grace!" Lord Srinivasa spoke reverentially.

84)Sree Varaahaha:
Mama Sthaaney Mahaaraaja! Vakulaam Vidhdhi Mey Sakheem!
Kshethram Pakvam Madeeyam Yath Thasmaanmaam Thyakthu Marhasi!!

Meaning: Lord Varaha said," Srinivasa! My friend Vakula is already with you! Please do not insist that I should come, as my paddy field is fertile!"

Sri Venkatachala Mahathyam(wedding chapter 67-75)

Above are photographs of "Shamee Vruksham" which is the Kula Deivam of Lord Venkateswara and the Pandavas. Also known as Jhand (hindi), Jammi Chettu (telugu), Jambu Maram (tamil) and Prosopis Cineraria (Botanical name). According to epics, Pandavas hid their weapons on the Shamee Vruksham during the last leg of their exile in forest (AGNYAATHAVAASAM).Click to enlarge photos.

67)Thatho Niyukthavidhinaa Dakthvaa Thaambooladakshinaaha!
Vipraanaam Vedavidushaam Thadhaa Mangalavaadinaam!!

Meaning:Afterwards 'thaamboolam and dakshina' (auspicious gifts like beetle leaves, nuts, vermillion and turmeric along with remuneration) was given to the vedic pundits and musicians who sang auspicious tunes.

68)Dadurdevaa Dhanam Vasthram Vaasudevasya Ye Priyaa!
Thathaha Samaapya Karmaani Shaasthrokthaani Yadhaavidhi!!

Meaning:The near and dear of Lord Srinivasa presented gifts like cash and clothing to the Lord. After the presentation ceremony, they proceeded with other auspicious rituals.

69)Kuladeivamapruchchaththam Vasishto Vasudhaadhipa!
Sa Thasya Shruthvaa Bhagavaanaaha Vai Munim!!

Meaning:Sage Vasishta asked Lord Srinivasa, " Srinivasa, Who is your 'Kula Deivam(God of His clan)?"

BHAGAVATHKRUTHAPARINAYAANGAKULADEVATHAAPRATHISHTAAVIDHAANAM

70)Sri Bhagavaan:-
Vasishta Mama Kalyaanee Kuladevee Smruthaa!
Mamaapi Paandavaanaancha Naathra Kaaryaa Vichaaranaa!!

Meaning:Lord Srinivasa told Sage Vasishta:" O Vasishta, my clan as well as the Pandavaa clan have "Shamee Vruksham" (jammi tree) as our 'Kula Deivam', there are no second thoughts on this matter."

71)"Kva Chaasthi Sa Dhrumasreshtaha" Ithyuktheygasthya Oochivaan!
Agasthya:-
Athraivoththaradibhaagey Theerdhey Kowmaarasanjakey!!

Meaning:When Sage Vasishta questioned regarding the location of "Shamee Vruksham", Sage Agasthya replied that in the Northern direction on the shores of "Kumaradhara Theerdham"...

72)Varthathey Vruksharaajashcha Thathra Gathvaa Thamaanaya!
Agasthya Vachaneynaivam Thathra Gathvaadha Tham Dhrumam!!

Meaning: Shamee Vruksham could be found. When asked to go there and fetch the tree, Lord Srinivasa who is the incarnation of "Dharma Varaaha" went there...

73)Kruthvaa Pradakshinam Raajan! Bhagavaan Loukika Samaha!
Samshchakrey Shameevruksham Kuladeivam Vrushaakapihi!!

Meaning:and like an ordinary mortal, the Lord performed the circumambulation and worship of the tree..

74)Sri Bhagavaan:-
Shamee!Paapam Shamaya Mey Shamee! Shathruvinaashini!
Arjunasya Dhanurdhaathri Raamasya Priyadarshini!!

Meaning:The Lord said:-"O Shamee Tree! Please rid me of my sins! You are the destroyer of enemies! You became the armoury for Arjuna's weapons! You are dear most to Rama!

75)Maatharmey Kuru Kalyaanam Avighneyna Surapriye!
Kalahaha Sarvadevaanaam Raagnyasthasya Cha Nodbhaveth!!

Meaning:O dear most of the entire Deva clan (Divine clan), please conduct my wedding smoothly without any obstacles. During the wedding, please prevent clashes between Deva clan (Divine clan) and Aakaasha Raaja (father of Goddess Padmavathi)!

Maha Periyava's message!

rAbove is a crown made of Tulasi beads, cardamom and 'lavangam' strewn around and shaped as "OM" (in sanskrit) on it. This is the crown which His Holiness, Pujyasri Sri Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi asked me to wear on my head while I performed in His Divine Presence (in Orikkai village, while He was observing Silence) when I was 11 years old.
Kumudam Bhakti magazine (Issue:-April 16-30,2010) carried my photographs and interview. The interview though well presented had a few gaping holes (obviously due to a communication gap) which I thought I would fill up here.
The interview states that I had been to the Ashram of Paramahamsa Yogananda in Encinitas and I also had His darshan!!!! He had attained liberation in the year 1952,even before I was born!
The article also states that I do not go abroad due to my belief that Hindu Dharma is opposed to flying overseas. This statement is partially true. There was a long period of time (through the best part of the 80s and all through the 90s) when I had simply refused to go abroad as I firmly believed that my living God, Paramacharya was against Hindus crossing the high seas. In the bargain I had even rejected plum offers from abroad inviting me to perform veena. In the latter half of 80s to the best part of 90s, I was frequenting Kanchipuram, involving myself (for a brief period during mid-90s) in the fund raising of the temple that is being constructed for Paramacharya in Orikkai village, near Kanchipuram. In the bargain I had the great fortune of meeting and interacting with renowned vedic scholars and close associates of Paramacharya. In all our conversations, the one thing that struck a chord in me was His objection to Hindus crossing the mighty Oceans. I wondered whether the rule (not to go abroad) applied only to vedic pundits and sanyasis. I even knew of a few staunch devotees who not only travelled abroad frequently, but also raised funds abroad towards the construction of Paramacharya's temple. I was genuinely confused and no matter how much I discussed about this, I could never get a clear and concrete answer whether women and artistes could go abroad. After much introspection, I decided not to accept concerts abroad. My trips to Muscat in early 90s and Berlin, Germany in 2002 for unavoidable reasons were the only exceptions. I had rejected many offers all through till last year, when the mother got the better of the aritste in me.
2009 was the year I rushed to San Diego to be with my daughter, Haritha who works for Qualcomm.
In my interview I had mentioned all about the dreams I had while in San Diego. From day one in San Diego, I had dreamt of saints and great sages. The prophetic dream about Paramahamsa Yogananda got me trailing the path to His ashram in Encinitas (a half-an-hour's drive from San Diego).
I had semi-visions of Sri Vidyaranya Swami while in San Diego and Houston. I was taken aback that all these divine things were happening to me in the US!!!! While I was posting articles on Soundarya Lahari (mantras,yantras and text) in my blog, 'Jasmine Strings' while in San Diego, I had curious dreams of 'Kundalini' rising like a serpent!
The ultimate dawning (that I was all along wrong in believing that Paramacharya was opposed to Hindus going abroad) ascended on me in the form of a prophetic dream!
In my dream, Paramacharya, in His saffrons,smiled gently as He beckoned to me. I was pushing back my two plaits and more keen to play in the sand (which means I was a child of 6 or 7 when I used to wear two braids and loved to play in the sand!) I slowly walked towards Him and He smilingly made me sit on His lap. He started chanting a famous and most powerful mantra and asked me to repeat it. I repeated it and word by word He made me repeat the entire mantra. In between, when I mispronounced a verse, He smiled and asked me "Idu yaaru solluvaa?". I corrected myself and repeated the whole mantra to His satisfaction. I asked Him in english,"how many times should I say this everyday?" He smiled widely as though to a child and told me the number, allowing me to run towards the sand.
When I woke up the next day, I understood the implication of Paramacharya appearing in my dreams while in San Diego. His appearance in my dream not only reaffirmed the fact that He was "Sarvaantharyaami" (Omnipresent), He also let me know through the dream that He was not against Hindus travelling anywhere under the sun! He actually sought His child (myself) in the US to preach me the mantra! I also realized that while I was in India I had never had such powerfully divine dreams almost everyday! From the next day of my dream till today, I recite the mantra everyday as instructed and guided by Paramacharya in my dreams in San Diego.
The Kumudam Bhakti interview mentions my dream without mentioning the crux, that Paramacharya IS NOT opposed to Hindus crossing the oceans to go abroad.

Prayers as Affirmations!

Above is the photograph of Lord Vishnu (jalashayanam) at Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu, Nepal.(This temple has devotees from Hinduism and Budhism sects. The entire idol is carved out of a single stone. This temple is one among the 108 Sri Vaishnavite Divya Kshetrams).
Rhonda Byrnes' "The Secret" is all about the well-known law of attracting whatever we think. OUR THOUGHTS BECOME THINGS! So think positively!!!! Simple but tough! For instance, when someone abuses us right on our faces, we not only have to smile at them warmly in return, the warmth (here is the crux of the matter) has to originate from the bottom of your heart to fill your being, (better still if the warmth overflows!!!!). Now we know how tough it is!!!!!! We would be incensed and nothing would deter us from getting the final word or having the 'last laugh'?!
Modern philosophers and self-help experts (like Louise L.Hay)advise the practice of affirmations for the implementation of positive thinking. It goes like this-
Take a book and pen, sit down to write what you desire the most in present tense (at least 10 times a day).
A few affirmations,
1) I am beautiful
2)I am slim and I have a great body
3)I am surrounded by love
4)Divine energy flows through me to attract the best of people and opportunities.
5)The Universe is my home and everything belongs to me
6) I have a great life
and blah, blah, blah.......

Our "nithya parayanam" of slokas are nothing but affirmations and we know that the phrases mentioned above are no match to the slokas that sing the glories of God!
Whenever a paaraayanam (sloka recitation) is performed, it is important to visualize God in the centre of our heart region. Once this is accomplished, each and every naamam (name) of the ashtotharam or sahasranamam is automatically directed to the divinity within us, thereby strengthening and enhancing the Divine within us ( as consciously visualized and practised by us), transforming our prayer into an affirmation!!
The power of vedic affirmations :-
"Om Vishvam Vishnurvashatkaaro
Bhoothabhavyabhavathprabhuhu
Bhoothakrudbhoothabhrudbhaavo
Bhoothaathmaa Bhoothabhaavanaha!"

(Meaning:1)Vishvam-Universe or cause of Universe orOne who is full in all respects (Om Vishvaaya Namaha)
2)Vishnu-One who permeates everything, One who is inside every sentient and non-sentient being. One who surrounds everything (Om Vishnavey Namaha)
3)Vashatkara-One who controls and directs (not merely permeates)
4)Bhootha-Bhavya-Bhavath-Prabhuhu-The Lord of all things that exists in the past, present and future.
5)Bhootha-Krud-The Creator of all beings.
6)Bhootha-brud- The Supporter of all beings. One who supports all.
7)Bhavaha-He who exists in all splendour, always independent of everything else.
8)Bhoothaathma- The soul or life of all beings.
9)Bhootha-Bhaavanaha-One who nourishes and nurtures all beings He has created.

Sri Vishnu Sahasranama or Sri Lalitha Sahasranamam or the other ashtotharams/sahasranamams (slokas or stothra parayanam like Sri Subrahmanya Bhujanga stothram, Lingashtakam, Soundarya Lahari, Devi Khadgamala, Vinayaka Agaval, Srimad Bhagavatham, Sri Venkatachala Mahathyam, Srimad Narayaneeyam, Bhagavad Githa, Sri Venkateswara Suprabhatham etc. etc.............the list of our rich slokas are endless) if understood and implemented correctly as affirmations (because the Divine is within ) yield results beyond the proportions of nature!!!! It is important to understand that it is God we are invoking here and not merely a few material benefits for the sake of our jivaathma like the english affirmations mentioned above!
Sri Vishnu Sahasranamam combined with Sri Lalitha Sahasranamam are the most mind-blowing affirmations one could ever think of in our present times!
Likhitha japa (written affirmations like "Sri Rama Jayam", Sri Maathrey Namaha" etc. are absolutely potent too!)
If one has the time and energy, 'aakarshana mantras' of Lord Sudarshana or Goddess Raja Mathangi could also be used as written affirmations. The results are absolutely instantaneous and magical!
The western author, Thomas Ashley-Farrand has mentioned many mantras in his book, "Healing Mantras".
For health:
1)Rama Mantra-"AAPADAAMAPAHARTHAARAM DAATHAARAAM SARVA SAMPADAAM
LOKAABHIRAAMAM SREERAAMAM BHOOYO BHOOYO NAMAAMYAHAM."
2)Ganapathy Mantra-"OM GUM GANAPATHAYE NAMAHA"(to remove energy blockages and obstacles).
The above two mantras are two examples out of the innumerable mantras given in his book that has mantras for health, wealth, prosperity, peace, joy, love and marital relationships.

Sri Venkatachala Mahathyam(wedding chapter 58-66)

58)Thadaa Muhoothakaalasthu Darshitho Deivachinthakaihi
Bhooshanaani Svaputhrasya Pouthrasthu Jagadeeshithuhu!!

Meaning:After that, the divine authorities declared the auspicious time.

59)Yaachayithvaa Mahaaraja! Kubera Madha Saa Ramaa;
Aaadaaya Tham Dadarshaadha Bhagavaanaaha Thaam Nrupa!!

Meaning:Pleading Kubera for goods, Goddess Lakshmi Devi displayed them to Lord Sreenivasa, and He said....

60)Sree Bhagawan:-
Sambhooshaya Varaarohey! Bhooshanairmaam Varaananey!
Evamukthaa Hasanthee Saa Bhooshanaisthamabhooshayath!!

Meaning:"O Beautiful One! Please decorate me with those ornaments!" and the Goddess smilingly decorated the Lord as He wished!

61)Peethaambaram Dadhaaraashu Katisoothramanarghyakam!
Swarnairaabharanairvasthraihi Bhooshithasthu Thatho Harihi!!

Meaning:After the decoration of ornaments, Lord Sreenivasa adorned Himself with 'peethambaram' ('dhothi' made out of pure gold) and invaluable waist bands.Lord Sreenivasa, adorning priceless jewels and golden attire....

62)Kashyapaathribharadwaaja Vasishtaadeen Mahaamuneen!
Namashchakrey Virincheysha Vinuthopi Vidambayan!!

Meaning: And despite being worshipped by Lord Brahma and the enitre Universe, pretending and behaving like a common man, prostrated to the sages, Kashyapaa, Athri, Bharadwaaja and Vasishtaa!

63)Sandhyaamupaasya Vidhivath Kruthvaa Thaathkaalikakriyaaha!
Vasishtamaahooyovaacha Santhoshodrikthamaanasaha!!

Meaning:After that, Lord Sreenivasa performed all the necessary rituals to carry out 'Sandhyaavandanam' and summoned sage Vasishta.

64)Sree Bhagavan:-
Munisreshtaa! Vasishtaa! Thvam Uththaram Kaaryamaachara!
Vaasudevavachaha Shruthvaa Vasishto Vadathaam Varaha!!

Meaning:"O Virtuous sage! Kindly carry out all the necessary auspicious rituals!" thus spoke Lord Sreenivasa, and on hearing Him Sage Vasishtaa..

65)Virachya Vedikaam Thathra Moukthikaishchathurashrikaam!
Sreenivaasaam Prathishtaapyaa Sankalpavidhipoorvakam!!

Meaning: Seated Lord Sreenivasa on a dais that was decorated with pearls on all four sides

66)Chakrey Punyaahakarmaadha Varayithvaa Dvijanmamaha
Ashtavargam Thathashchakrey Srushtikarthaa Pithaamahaha!!

Meaning: where the naming ceremony of the Lord was conducted. After the ceremony, Lord Sreenivasa, with the assistance of the brahmin purohiths performed the vedic ritual for marriage known as "Ashtavarga."