Tag: Bhagavad Gita

Two ‘Mantras’ to Destroy Negative Karma and Start Afresh

Posted on by Tavamithram Sarvada

Life is too precious. Nothing and no one is worth wasting your time on in life.

Discover simple steps to navigate even the most challenging times in life.

No matter how tough or daunting your situation might be, the first step is to come to terms with it – at least temporarily.

This acceptance allows your intellect to push your emotions aside and function fully, enabling you to come up with a solution.

General George S. Patton said, “Accept the challenges so that you can feel the exhilaration of victory.”

In the video presentation ‘So What? What Next?’, I explain two simple two-word ‘Mantras’ that can greatly help overcome the delusion caused by a sense of entitlement and the tendency to avoid troubles and risks.And in the other titled ‘Reset Karma’, I explain simple ways to change unfavourable patterns in life to more favourable ones.

It is primarily one’s sense of entitlement, ingrained since childhood, that often becomes a significant barrier to success. Believing they deserve only the best and most comfortable things in life, individuals can become morally weakened when faced with challenges. This mental block prevents them from recognising their own capabilities.

No matter how tough or daunting your situation might be, the first step is to come to terms with it, at least temporarily. This acceptance allows your intellect to function fully, pushing emotions aside and enabling you to find a solution. Whatever the situation, even if someone is facing a life-or-death scenario, they need to come out of denial, accept the truth, and start thinking rationally about what they can do to survive. Doing so removes the greatest obstacles in the form of fear, anger, or any other destructive emotions.

From Stagnation to Success: Mastering Negative Karmic Inertia

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Shattering All Blockades in Life

Understanding the Three Gunas: A Path to Self-Improvement

Understanding the three Gunas explained in the Srimad Bhagavad Gita offers profound insights into human behaviour and consciousness. These three fundamental qualities—Sattva (goodness), Rajas (passion), and Tamas (ignorance)—shape our thoughts, actions, and overall life experience. Among these, the Tamasa Guna, which embodies indolence, laziness, lethargy, negativity, and pessimism, often acts as a significant impediment to personal growth and productivity. I refer to this as ‘Negative Karmic Inertia.’

Much like maintaining a good hormonal balance is crucial for physical health, achieving a harmonious balance of the three Gunas is essential for a fulfilling and enriching life. By understanding and managing our Guna levels, we can enhance our self-awareness and work towards self-improvement. The real transformation happens within, even if the knowledge and inspiration come from external sources.

The Role of Tamasa Guna

Excessive Tamas is like a heavy weight that chains a person to the ground, preventing any positive change and perpetuating a state of lethargy and inertia. It not only affects one’s behaviour but also distorts one’s ability to rationalise and make sound decisions. A person overwhelmed by Tamas might find themselves stuck in a cycle of inaction and negativity, unable to break free and achieve their true potential.

The Three Gunas explained in the Bhagavad Gita

The Srimad Bhagavad Gita provides a detailed explanation of the three Gunas and their effects on individuals:

SBG 14:5 – “The three Gunas or qualities are Sattva, which is the quality of goodness; Rajas, which is the quality of passion; and Tamas, which is the quality of ignorance; O mighty-armed one. They are born of Prakriti which is Nature. These qualities bind very fast the immutable embodied Self in the body.”

SBG 14:6 – “Of these, Sattva, which, due to its purity, is luminous and healthy, frees a person of all Karmic reactions. Those of this Guna are attached to knowledge and to happiness, O sinless one.”

SBG 14:7 – “You should know Rajas to be the Guna or nature of passion, which is the source of desire and attachment. O Arjuna, it binds fast to the embodied Self by attachment to action.”

SBG 14:8 – “Tamas is born of ignorance and deludes all embodied beings. O Arjuna, this results in the binding of the embodied soul by negligence, sleep and laziness!”

SBG 14:9 – “O Arjuna, Sattva binds one to happiness, Rajas to action, while Tamas shrouds knowledge and binds one to idiocy.”

SBG 14:10 – “O descendant of Bharata (Arjuna), Sattva prevails over Rajas and Tamas, while Rajas manifests itself by overpowering Sattva and Tamas; and Tamas manifests itself by subduing Sattva and Rajas.”

SBG 14:11 – “When the light of wisdom shines through every sense in this body, it may be known that Sattva is predominant.”

SBG 14:12 – “When greed, endeavour for material gains, restlessness and longing arise; Rajas is predominant, O Arjuna.”

SBG 14:13 – “The presence of illusion, darkness, recklessness and delusion in a person indicate the predominance of Tamas in them, O Arjuna.”

Overcoming Negative Karmic Inertia

Many people struggle with feelings of demotivation and an inability to achieve their goals. This internal blockage often stems from an excess of the Tamasa Guna. Conversely, those driven by an excessive Rajas Guna might find themselves aggressive and even harmful in their pursuit of desires.

Managing Rajas

SBG 3:36-37: Arjuna asks Krishna: What prompts a man to perform sinful deeds, O descendant of Vrshni? Why does he commit such acts even without desiring to do them, as if he were forced?

Shri Bhagavan Krishna replies: Lust and anger are born out of the material nature called Rajoguna, which is insatiable and prompts man to commit sin. You must know that this is the greatest enemy in a man’s spiritual life.

Understanding one’s Guna ratio is akin to a doctor diagnosing a patient: it allows for targeted self-improvement. By identifying and addressing the predominant Guna that is out of balance, individuals can work on the specific areas needed to overcome unwanted situations in life.

Self-Study and Introspection

The path to self-improvement begins with self-study and introspection. Rather than casting blame on external factors, it is crucial to look within and understand the internal dynamics that drive our behaviour. By doing so, we can achieve a harmonious balance of the Gunas, leading to a more pleasant, enriching, and fulfilling life.

Finally, the knowledge of the three Gunas offers a powerful tool for self-awareness and personal growth. By recognising the influence of Tamas and working to balance it with Sattva and Rajas, we can overcome negative karmic inertia and realise our true potential. The journey to self-improvement is an inward one, and the key to success lies in understanding and managing the forces within us.

Reflect on your own Guna ratio, identify the areas that need attention, and take the necessary steps to bring balance and harmony into your life. Embrace the power of self-awareness and let it guide you towards a brighter, more fulfilling future.

If you truly want to change your life, it is you who must change, for the world will not bend to your will.

“Who looks outside dreams; who looks inside awakes.” – Carl Jung

The Metamorphosis of ANGER

Posted on by Tavamithram Sarvada

The Harmful Effects of Anger: Understanding Its Life Cycle and the Path to Peace

Mark Twain once said, “Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured.” Anger never solves any problem or worry; rather, it makes us more stressed. It starts controlling our emotions and intelligence, and eventually leads us to self destruction.

To comprehend the full extent of anger’s impact, it’s essential to understand its life cycle. Anger often begins with attachment, a sense of entitlement, or envy. This metamorphosis is eloquently described in the Srimad Bhagavad Gita, Shlokas SBG 2:62-63:

Srimad Bhagavad Gita: 2:62-63 “A person who thinks of sense objects develops an attachment for them. From this attachment, desires are born and from desires, anger is born.
Anger gives birth to delusion and this delusion results in confusion of memory. When memory is confused, intelligence is destroyed, and from the destruction of intelligence, the person perishes.”

SBG 2:62-63

The Metamorphosis of Anger

  1. Attachment: It all begins with the mind dwelling on sense objects. When we repeatedly think about something, we develop an attachment to it.

  2. Desire: From attachment arises desire—the longing to possess or achieve what we are attached to.

  3. Anger: When our desires are unfulfilled or obstructed, anger arises. This anger can be towards oneself, others, or circumstances.

  4. Delusion: Anger clouds our judgment, leading to delusion. We start seeing things in a distorted manner, unable to perceive reality accurately.

  5. Confusion of Memory: Delusion confuses our memory. We forget our principles, values, and past experiences that guide us in making rational decisions.

  6. Destruction of Intelligence: With a confused memory, our intelligence, the ability to reason and discriminate, is destroyed.

  7. Perdition: The final stage is the total destruction of the person. A life led by anger is a life of turmoil, leading to self-destruction.

The Solution: Vedanta

Vedanta offers a profound solution to the problem of anger and other mental afflictions. The Srimad Bhagavad Gita, a cornerstone of Vedanta, provides timeless wisdom to overcome anger and attain peace. By understanding and applying its teachings, we can transform our lives.

The Srimad Bhagavad Gita is the panacea for all mental problems, fears, worries, and confusions that stem from a lack of clarity or emotional thinking. It guides us to live a life of balance, understanding, and inner peace.

Acquire Your Copy of the ‘Ever-Relevant Gita: A Present-Day Rendering’

Embark on a transformative journey with the ‘Ever-Relevant Gita: A Present-Day Rendering by Tavamithram.’ Complete it in a bit more than three hours—about the same time as watching a Bollywood movie! Choose from paperback, audiobook, and ebook versions, and let the timeless wisdom of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita bring clarity and peace to your life.

The Ever-Relevant Gita: A Present-Day Rendering

Posted on by Tavamithram Sarvada

Embracing the Blissful Journey: The Ever-Relevant Gita – A Present-Day Rendering by Tavamithram Sarvada

Now available in various online store fronts, such as: Amazon International, IN, DE, UK, AU, NL, CA, FR, ES, PL, IT, BR, MX

*The paperback version is not available on Amazon India.

Part 1: Preface and Introduction + Chapters 1-6

The preface and introduction lay the foundation for your exploration. Don't be tempted to skip these initial chapters; they are the compass guiding you through the intricate terrain of the Gita's philosophy. Understand the core teachings, and you'll find yourself motivated to delve deeper, perhaps into the rich Bhashyams or commentaries of Shri Adi Shankara and other great teachers.

Part 2: Chapters 7-12

As you progress through these chapters, absorb the profound insights that unfold. The clarity of understanding achieved in the earlier sections becomes the stepping stone for an even more profound comprehension of Krishna's teachings.

Part 3: Chapters 13-18 + Outro

The culmination of your journey awaits in the final chapters. The outro ties the threads together, offering a comprehensive view of the Gita's timeless wisdom. This concluding section is not to be missed; it holds the key to empowerment and self-confidence.

Namaste Seekers,

Embark on a profound journey into the timeless wisdom of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita with ‘The Ever-Relevant Gita: A Present-day Rendering by Tavamithram Sarvada.’ Below, I’ll elucidate the profound significance of this work and its potential to illuminate the path to self-realisation.

In a fast-paced world fraught with complexities, the solace found in ancient wisdom often remains unexplored. 'The Ever-Relevant Gita – A Present-day Rendering by Tavamithram Sarvada’ endeavours to bridge this gap, bringing forth the profound teachings of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita to everyone, irrespective of age, background, or familiarity with ancient scriptures.

Dispelling Myths and Misconceptions

The main challenge involves dispelling misconceptions that surround the Srimad Bhagavad Gita—misconceptions about its perceived depth, religious connotations, and its relevance limited to the elderly or devout individuals. In this modern interpretation, we untangle myths and present timeless wisdom in a manner that aligns with the sensibilities of the contemporary mind.

A Unique Approach: Audio, Video, and E-book Formats

Understanding the daunting nature of lengthy translations, a unique approach has been taken by creating easily digestible audio recordings of each chapter. These recordings allow listeners to absorb the essence of the Gita at their own pace, breaking down barriers that often deter individuals from exploring this ageless scripture.

Beyond presentation, this initiative is a call to embark on a blissful journey of self-discovery. In my life, which has been shaped by numerous challenges and life-altering situations, the importance of a well-trained instinct and a balanced mindset has become crystal clear to me. A clear understanding of the fundamental principles of the teachings in the Srimad Bhagavad Gita certainly plays a pivotal role in shaping attitudes, cultivating fearlessness, and fostering rational thinking during critical moments.

Practical Insights for Daily Application

The true power of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita lies in its application in everyday life. The focus is not merely on delivering a rendition or chanting Shlokas, but on providing practical insights that enable individuals to apply these teachings in their daily lives, leading to a more fulfilling and blissful existence.

In essence, the mission is to make the teachings of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita easily accessible, relatable, and applicable to everyone, fostering a deeper understanding of life's intricacies. Join me on this enlightening journey, and let's journey through the supreme scripture together.

Those who would like a promo code for a free download of the Audiobook version of the ‘The Ever-Relevant Gita – A Present-Day Rendering by Tavamithram Sarvada’ may email their request to tavamithramoffice@gmail.com

Jai Shri Krishna

Are you that RARE Seeker?

Posted on by Tavamithram Sarvada

In the timeless wisdom of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita, Bhagavan Krishna reveals a profound truth in Shloka SBG 7:03

मनुष्याणां सहस्रेषु कश्चिद्यतति सिद्धये |
यततामपि सिद्धानां कश्चिन्मां वेत्ति तत्त्वतः
manush-yaaNaam sahasreshu kash-chi-dyatati siddhaye
yatataa-mapi siddhaa-naam kash-chinmaam vetti tattvataha (SBG 7:03)”

“Out of thousands of men, hardly one tries to achieve perfection in Self-realisation and among those trying so hard to do so, there is hardly one who achieves perfection in Self-realisation and among those who do achieve Self-realisation, there is hardly one who truly knows Me.”

This revelation highlights a stark reality: the path to true SELF-realisation is trodden by only a few, and among those few, even fewer truly comprehend the essence of the Divine.

Reflecting on this, it’s remarkable to consider the efforts of Shri Adi Shankaracharya, my prime human spiritual guru. In the timeless ‘NirvaaNa Shatakam,’ he encapsulated profound truths in merely six Shlokas. Yet, he journeyed across Bharata Varsha (India) by foot, enlightening kings and commoners alike with the supreme knowledge of Vedanta. Why such an arduous endeavour? The answer lies in the pervasive ignorance that clouds human intellect.

One who has not achieved mental clarity—being confused, scared, worried, stuck in a belief system, or a mental slave to someone—usually flashes the victim card at the drop of a hat. In contrast, one who is sincerely seeking treats all experiences as learning opportunities. Simply put, I am extremely thankful to all those who cheated, hurt, insulted, or tried to harm me in the past. Without them, I might not have had sufficient fuel to propel my ship to the heights of bliss I have managed to create for myself in any given situation.

For ten years, yes, TEN YEARS, I have dedicated myself to this blog, sharing the rational philosophy of Vedanta. Many have visited, gained some insights, made minor life changes, and moved on. Some, however, have exhibited a shocking lack of courtesy and decency, demanding answers without a trace of respect. Here’s a recent example on my contact page from an Indian person living in the USA: “Can you break your fast completely second day of Navratri if you can’t do it or don’t have proper items is it a sin. Can I break my fast for Navratri or did I already break it before 8 by eating fruits and ate food after 9 pm doing aarti.” No greeting, no politeness—just a blunt demand for an answer, coupled with a disregard for the language they’re using, which is the main language of the country they are living in! This is the impression these people create of Indians. And what am I supposed to say to such a query? Is this a typical ‘Indian’ way of interacting with people? I can’t even discern what this person wants from me!

Well, on October 11th, 2024, two of this blog’s sincere and senior-most followers (senior not in terms of age but in years of association with this blog and my mission), along with my oldest and most trusted friend, and I had an online meeting to discuss Atma, Anatma, and the Mahavakya ‘Pragnyaanam Brahma’. The joy of engaging with such true seekers is simply indescribable, contrasting sharply with the frustration of dealing with blind believers who spread nonsense without understanding even the basics of Vedanta.

If the idea of discussing Vedanta resonates with you, if you wish to free yourself from the shackles of intellect-numbing belief systems, if you desire to live a life that is peaceful and blissful, and if you feel a genuine pull towards Vedanta, you may write to me and express your interest in joining our next online discussion. You can always go through the posts on this blog and watch videos on the Tavamithram YouTube channel. For the rest, feel free to continue on your current path—no pressure, no problem.

Seekers, let’s continue seeking Truth together.

Forget the Heart, First Heal the Mind!

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Beyond Prayers and Miracles – The Rational Path to Self-Realisation

Transform Your Life with Vedanta, The Science of all Sciences

WATCH THIS AND CLEAR YOUR HEAD OF ALL UNWANTED STUFF:

When ignorance becomes the norm, entire masses of people can be easily swayed to firmly believe the unreal to be real. The crucial factor in society that enables a select few to manipulate their minds is the ignorance of the masses, which basically stems from blind beliefs that numb their brains, and sheer laziness to make a move to get out of ignorance.

People come to my blog, watch some of my videos, and ask me what they should do to change their lives. Almost everyone wants instant solutions, and they are even willing to pay for shortcuts! One should not overlook the fact that even the act of going to a religious place and praying for what one wants is a form of seeking shortcuts.

But the truth is that everything has a price, and everything is part of the never-ending cause-and-effect chain. Asking someone or ‘god’ to give them what they want could only mean that the so-called ‘god’ changes his plans to suit the needs of the one praying. So, what about the others? Do their lives get destroyed because someone else prayed and got things done by ‘god’ to do things their way? Really? So, what happens when two entities at war with each other pray to the same ‘god’? Who do you think ‘god’ will bless with special favours?!

How many people really dare to make massive changes in their lives, have the courage to travel around, experience and learn more, and evolve? Krishna says in Shloka SBG 7:19, “Therefore, after innumerable births, the one who has perfected his or her wisdom, understanding fully My universal reality, surrenders to Me and such an individual is very rare.”

So, with a default state of mind of wanting to maintain the status quo, people tend to look for easy ways out, shortcuts, middlemen, and women who can help them achieve success through the short path, which is a form of corruption or fraud. It is because people want something without really working for it.

When did Krishna say in the Srimad Bhagavad Gita to go to his temples, perform meaningless rites and rituals with the mammary milk of poor voiceless animals, sing songs in His praise, chant Mantras the whole day, and do nothing else? The clear instruction in the second chapter is that you only have the right to work, but never to claim its results. The results of your actions should never be your motive, but at the same time, you should not be attached to inaction.

Then why do people perform religious rites to fulfill personal desires?

Vedanta and the Srimad Bhagavad Gita

Shloka 18:66 of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita does not mean that one should have blind belief in Krishna.

Krishna says in SBG 18:66, “Giving up all your ideas of righteousness or religion, take complete refuge in Me. I will liberate you from all sinful reactions. Do not fear.”

It means, “Give up all the nonsensical ideas you might have in the name of religion, and by adopting the logical analysis and reasoning provided throughout until the 18th chapter, become one with Krishna.”

The entire purpose of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita is to guide people to shed their false beliefs and take to a rational study of truth. The process is very simple with three stages:

  1. Sidhaanta – A Question, Idea, Concept, or Theory
  2. Saadhana – The means to study, including reading, listening, researching, analysing, debating, etc.
  3. Siddhi – Final understanding, internalisation, and experience, known as Anubhava in Sanskrit.

Scientists don’t believe anything without evidence, do they? Remember that Vedanta is the science of all sciences.

Reason and Logic in the Srimad Bhagavad Gita

The Srimad Bhagavad Gita talks about reason and logic and NEVER about belief.

SBG 13:4 states, “Great sages have sung about the absolute truth in various ways. They have stated the truth in Vedic hymns and have described it in the Brahma Sutras through reason and logic with unambiguous evidence.”

Shloka SBG 4:34 says, “Acquire knowledge through reverence to teachers who have known the Truth, serve them and ask them questions until all of them are answered. The wise who know the Truth will teach it to you.”

Definition of Religion

Religion is a system of beliefs, practices, and values often centred around the worship of a higher power or divine beings. It typically involves rituals, moral guidelines, and a community of followers who share the same belief and faith.

Did you find anything related to reason, rationality, science, inquiry, or logic in this definition?

Vedanta: The Pinnacle of Vedic Studies

Vedanta is the highest point of Vedic studies – right from the basic Karma Kaanda, Upaasana Kaanda to the Gnyaana Kaanda of the Upanishads.

If you are interested in changing your life COMPLETELY and are willing to clear your mind of all the unfounded beliefs you have been trained by your elders to blindly believe, please feel free to contact me.

I do not talk about miracles performed by some man in a cave, one with a long beard, or another with fuzzy hair. Out here, it is pure Advaita Vedanta – Nondual Vedanta, and the compact and best manual for attaining the highest understanding of the nondual, all-pervading SELF is the Srimad Bhagavad Gita.

A real shift to Vedanta is a complete change with no traces of illogical or irrational ideas sticking in the mind in the name of belief, ‘aastha’, religion, or whatever.

“Before you heal someone, ask him if he’s willing to give up the things that make him sick,” said Hippocrates. Just as baseless beliefs can be likened to mental diseases, one must be willing to abandon them to achieve true healing and enlightenment. Therefore, start with a clean slate.

SBG 4:38 Shri Krishna says: “There is certainly nothing more purifying than knowledge. He who is perfect in Yoga finds it in the Self in due course of time.”

Why me – मैं ही क्यों – நான் ஏன்?

Posted on by Tavamithram Sarvada

Understanding Destiny through the Srimad Bhagavad Gita

Every morning can be treated as a new Janma (birth), carrying forward the thoughts and mindset from the previous day, thus continuing life patterns. Changing one’s life for the better is not difficult if one understands the natural principle of cause and effect and works towards acquiring the knowledge of the all-pervading Self, Brahman, or Krishna. As long as one thinks of Krishna as a separate entity, they will have expectations, which naturally lead to disappointments. Krishna is everywhere, in all beings, and is existence itself. Rise above dualitym accept responsibility and make the necessary course corrections in life. The Srimad Bhagavad Gita clearly states that the path of knowledge is the highest. Check out Shloka SBG 4:37-38.

To illustrate these concepts, I created three videos in three different languages using easy-to-understand analogies. When I made the Hindi video, one of our family members, Mr. Anupam Agarwal helped me in reviewing the Hindi script. Special thanks to him.

Additionally, I offer my latest book, ‘The Ever-Relevant Gita: A Present-Day Rendering’. This book can answer almost all possible questions one might have about destiny, karma, dharma, Krishna, birth, life, and death.

Embracing the Path of Knowledge

It is an irrefutable fact that everyone possesses some degree of a personality trait called narcissism. The degree of narcissism in a person separates a normal individual from someone who needs professional help. Even a small amount of narcissism can push a person towards feelings of entitlement, selfishness, and the typical ‘Why me?’ question. One’s own answer to this question is usually based on self-pity and a sense of being a victim of others, external forces, or misfortune.

People who care to set aside their narcissistic traits, however small and insignificant, and their feelings of victimhood, can find not just an answer to the ‘Why me?’ question but a permanent solution to it.

The following presentation analyses the ‘Why me?’ question, the principle of cause and effect, and ways to carve out a clearer, better, enjoyable, and enriching destiny with the help of teachings from the Srimad Bhagavad Gita.

May peace reign in your heart, mind, and soul, and may your life be blessed with an abundance of Divine Grace.

Jai Shri Krishna

Watch the video in the language of your choice, reflect, and take action.

Faith vs. Reason – Christianity vs. Vedanta

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Unveiling the Shocking Truth: Christianity vs. Vedanta – Faith or Reason?

We live in a world filled with diverse beliefs and philosophies, in which, the quest for truth remains a constant journey. This video, “The Shocking Truth: Christianity vs. Vedanta – Faith or Reason?” takes you on an enlightening exploration of two profound world-views that have shaped human thought and spirituality for centuries.

The Clash of Faith and Reason

Christianity and Vedanta offer distinct paths to understanding the nature of existence, the divine, and our place in the cosmos. While Christianity is rooted in faith and belief in a personal God, Vedanta emphasises knowledge and SELF-realisation, guiding seekers towards the ultimate truth of oneness with Brahman.

What to Expect in the Video

This thought-provoking video, is a discussion on the core principles of both Christianity and Vedanta, comparing and contrasting their teachings. We discuss the concept of duality versus non-duality, the role of reason and logic in spiritual pursuit, and the historical context that has shaped these traditions.

The Mahavakya or grand statement “Aham Brahmasmi” (“I am Brahman”) from the Brihadaryanaka Upanishad is a powerful representation of the Vedantic experience of unity and self-realisation. This Mahavakya can be used as a gateway to begin understanding the profound insights of Vedanta.

Stay Connected

Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to the Tavamithram Sarvada blog and YouTube channel for more posts and videos on philosophy, spirituality, and self-discovery. Follow this blog for updates and more enlightening content.

Embark on this journey with me and uncover the shocking truth that lies at the intersection of faith and reason.

Krishna Jayanti – Janmashtami: Celebrating the Unborn and Eternal

Posted on by Tavamithram Sarvada

Krishna Jayanti, or Janmashtami, marks the celebrated ‘birth’ of Bhagavan Shri Krishna, an event cherished across the globe. But how does this celebration reconcile with Krishna’s own words in the Srimad Bhagavad Gita, where he declares that He was never born, nor will He ever die?

Consider this profound Shloka:

नत्वेवाहं जातु नासं
न त्वं नेमे जनाधिपाः |
न चैव न भविष्यामः
सर्वे वयमतः परम् || २ १२ ||

na tvevaaham jaatu naasam
na tvam neme janaadhi-paaha
na chaiva na bhavishyaa-maha
sarve vayam-ataha param
SBG 2:12

“There never was a time when I did not exist, nor you, nor all these kings. We will also never cease to exist.”

In this Shloka, Krishna emphasises the eternal nature of the Atman. The physical birth and death that we observe are but mere transitions in the infinite existence of the SELF. Krishna, as the Supreme Being, transcends these limitations of time and space.

Arjuna, puzzled by this concept, continues with his questions and, in Chapter 4, asks Krishna as follows:

अर्जुन उवाच |
अपरं भवतो जन्म परं जन्म विवस्वतः |
कथमेतद्विजानीयां त्वमादौ प्रोक्तवानिति || ४ ४ ||

arjuna uvaacha
aparam bhavatho janma
param janma vivasvathaha
katham-etha-dhvijaa-niiyaam
tva-maadhau proktavaa-nithi
SBG 4:04

Arjuna said: “Your birth was after the birth of Vivasvaan. How should I understand when You say that You taught this Yoga to him?”

To this, Krishna responds, illuminating the mystery of His divine nature:

श्रीभगवानुवाच |
बहूनि मे व्यतीतानि जन्मानि तव चार्जुन |
तान्यहं वेद सर्वाणि न त्वं वेत्थ परंतप || ४ ५ ||

sri bhagavan uvaacha
bahuuni me vyatii-taani
janmaani tava-chaarjuna
taan-yaham veda sarvaaNi
na tvam vettha parantapa
SBG 4:05

Sri Krishna said: “Many births of mine as well as yours have passed. I know all of them, but you don’t, O Parantapa (Arjuna – destroyer of enemies).”

Here, Krishna acknowledges the cyclical nature of birth and rebirth, highlighting that while He is aware of all His incarnations, Arjuna remains unaware.

Krishna then reveals the ultimate truth of His existence:

अजोऽपि सन्नव्ययात्मा
भूतानामीश्वरोऽपि सन् |
प्रकृतिं स्वामधिष्ठाय
संभवाम्यात्ममायया || ४ ६ ||

ajo ‘pi san-navya-yaathma
bhuuthaanaa-miishvaro ‘pi san
prakrthim svaa-madhisht-haaya
sambhavaa-myaathma-maayayaa
SBG 4:06

“Though I am unborn and imperishable, and although I am the Bhagavan of all beings, I do incarnate by my own Maya or My Divine Energy.”

Krishna’s ‘birth’ is not conventional; it is a divine descent, an incarnation born of His own will and energy, symbolising the emergence of pure intellect after dispelling layers and layers of ignorance. Krishna Jayanti, while celebrating His appearance, also invites us to reflect on the deeper spiritual truths He embodies.

In this short video I’ve created, I delve into the essence of Krishna Janmashtami and how embracing these teachings can transform your life and lead to enduring bliss:
At the end of the short video, I have translated Shloka SBG 2:12 into six Indian languages apart from English.

It is crucial to remember that taking scriptural texts literally can lead one astray from the true path of Self-Realisation, potentially fostering rigid belief systems or cult-like thinking. The Srimad Bhagavad Gita offers profound wisdom—absorb its philosophy, and use it to cultivate a life of fulfilment and spiritual growth.

A ‘disclaimer’ from Srimad Bhagavatam (not Srimad Bhagavad Gita)

Canto 12, Chapter 3, Shloka 14
Shloka 12:3:14 Srimad Bhagavatam

कथा इमास्ते कथिता महीयसां
विताय लोकेषु यशः परेयुषाम् ।
विज्ञानवैराग्यविवक्षया विभो
वचोविभूतीर्न तु पारमार्थ्यम् ॥ १२.३.१४॥

kathaa imaaste kathita mahiiyasaam
vitaaya lokeshu yashah pareyushaam
vignyaana-vairaagya-vivakshayaa vibho
vachovibhootiirna tu paaramaartham

“Shukadeva Gosvami spoke: O mighty King Parikshith, I have shared with you the accounts of these illustrious kings, whose fame and great deeds echoed worldwide before their departure. However, my fundamental intention has always been to impart the wisdom of the transcendental and the path of renunciation. Although the stories of kings embellish these narratives with grandeur and opulence, they, in and of themselves, do not represent the ultimate essence of knowledge.“

Feel free to explore the resources I offer to sincere seekers on this journey.
Srimad Bhagavad Gita Resources

Jai Shri Krishna

From Frustration to Fulfilment

Posted on by Tavamithram Sarvada

The Essential Guide to Overcoming Life’s Unfavourable Situations

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Breaking Free from the Cycle

Many of us find ourselves stuck in a cycle of complaining, brooding, and feeling generally dissatisfied with our circumstances. Whether it’s our job, relationships, or personal achievements, the tendency to ruminate on what’s wrong can be overwhelming. And yet, despite the temporary relief we might find in venting to a friend or relative, we often wake up the next day only to repeat the same routine, with nothing having changed. The question then arises: how can we expect change when we continue to do the same thing?

The Unproductive Cycle of Complaints

Complaining and brooding are natural human responses to dissatisfaction. It’s almost instinctual to express our frustrations when things don’t go as planned. However, these actions rarely lead to meaningful change. Instead, they often serve as a temporary release, a way to momentarily ease the pressure without addressing the underlying issues. As a result, we remain stuck in the same unfavourable situation, repeating the cycle day after day.

To break free from this cycle, it’s crucial to take a different approach—one rooted in clarity and action. The key lies in defining your problems and goals with precision. Let me take you back to my childhood to illustrate this point.

As a young boy, I was naturally curious and had a mechanical aptitude that drove me to understand how things worked. I was always eager to get to the bottom of things, refusing to accept anything at face value without clear evidence. When I was reprimanded by elders or teachers for my behaviour, I didn’t just accept the scolding. Instead, I wanted to know what I had done wrong and, more importantly, what I should do right. However, my requests for guidance were often met with silence or a cold stare, leaving me with unanswered questions.

This experience taught me a vital lesson: in any situation, if something is wrong, it’s essential to ask, “What is right?” This principle can be applied to any area of life:

  1. If you’re dissatisfied with your job, ask: What is my ideal job?
  2. If you don’t like your life, ask yourself: What would my ideal life look like?
  3. If you’re unhappy in a relationship, ask: What is the ideal relationship I want?

The Three-Step Approach to Change

Once you’ve asked these questions, the next step is to define your situation clearly. Here’s a practical approach:

  1. Identify What You Don’t Like and Why: Be specific about what bothers you. Is it the long hours at work, the lack of appreciation, or perhaps a feeling of being stuck? Understand the root cause of your dissatisfaction.

  2. Create a Clear Vision of What You Want: Visualise your ideal situation in detail. What does your perfect job look like? What qualities define your ideal relationship? Be as specific as possible, down to the finest details.

  3. Develop a Plan to Achieve Your Vision: Identify the steps you need to take to move from your current situation to your ideal one. This might involve learning new skills, making lifestyle changes, or even having difficult conversations. The key is to take actionable steps that lead you closer to your goal.

The Danger of Temporary Fixes

Many people, when faced with an unfavourable situation, seek quick fixes to ease their minds temporarily. Whether it’s pouring out your woes to a friend, closing your eyes and sitting under a tree or in a religious place, or even turning to substances, these methods offer only momentary relief. They don’t address the core issues and often lead to more frustration when the problem inevitably resurfaces.

Please always remember that if someone truly wants something, they will find a way to get it. Consider alcohol and substance addicts or those addicted to gambling—they always manage to obtain what they crave. If you feel you’ve been working hard with no improvement in your life, instead of adopting a victim or ‘poor me’ attitude, try to view it from another perspective. Perhaps your efforts are insufficient, misdirected, or lack proper direction.

Summing up and Learning to Take Control of Your Life

If you’re unhappy with your current situation, don’t waste time complaining or seeking temporary distractions. Instead, follow the steps I’ve outlined:

  1. Define your issue clearly.
  2. Visualise your ideal situation.
  3. Take actionable steps to achieve your vision.

By doing so, you’ll find that you have the power to transform your life into something truly fulfilling. These steps may seem simple, but they are profoundly effective—I speak from experience.

Never forget that many people don’t know exactly what they want. Complaining and feeling depressed require less effort than reflecting and strategising, which is why slipping into self-pity is so easy. For anything good and positive to materialise, there must first be a clear image in the mind. So, the next time you feel the urge to complain or brood, make sure you know exactly what you want.

Real change begins with a clear definition of your goals and a commitment to taking action.