Bhagwati Prasad Gupta

Industrial and Business-management aspects of Diwali and Govardhan-puja

The Indian summer season and monsoon rains are over by October or Kartik month according to Indian calendar. All sorts of insects are surfaced on the ground and condition of get deteriorated due to rainy season. All the activities of businesses also required to be restrengthened. So, needs arise for extra cleaning and ensuring hygienic conditions in order to live healthy and happy life. As dullness of rainy season is no more, weather is pleasant, new crops are ready, thoughts turn to the festival celebration. Celebrations involve exercise in group that releases endorphins hormone and make individuals happy. The celebration is started by cleaning and refurbishing of houses and business centres.

Management principles and decluttering: For human-being, activities are supported by money. So, creation and management of wealth are necessary. It appears as if letters of name ‘Diwali’ itself show us the first lesson of management.

D – Declutter all the items of the house/ work-place, that have not been utilized in recent past.

I –   Inspect and ensure that these will not be utilized in recent future.

W -Wash and clean the places and items

A – Assortment of the items

L – Location allotment for every item

I – Institutionalize for keeping the items in practice  

Perhaps following ‘5-S’ practice in Japanese style of management has been inspired by ‘DIWALI’ only:

1S > SEIRI (sort)

2S > SEITON (set & store)

3S > SEISO (shine & inspection)

4S > SEIKETSU (standardization)

5S > SHITSUKE (sustain & discipline)

The festival ‘Diwali’ that one celebrates after ensuring cleanliness has been termed as Deepavali also. The word Deepawali originates from Sanskrit words deep (lamp) and vali (row). It literally means “row of lights”, because the light pin point if there is slightest dirtiness anywhere.

Management by developing industries: Lord Krishna is called ‘Management Guru’ now a days, as he preached for the Karma-yoga, describing great management principles,  in Gita. But very few people know regarding the secret of ‘Dahi-handi breaking’. During his childhood, Krishna was insisting that Dahi (curd) should not be taken to Mathura for selling, rather butter should be prepared in order to develop dairy industries.

Govardhan is the symbol for developing grass growing fields so that cows could graze there for food so that enough milk is available for the dairy industries. People used to worship a God ‘Indra’ after Laxmi-puja. Lord Krishna professed for devoting time and energy for the development of the mount where cows were grazing grass in-stead; and he gave it the name ‘GOVARDHAN’ because cows are the backbone for the dairy industry. In this way he saved that area from the economic crisis.

Local is vocal: During the celebration of Diwali and Gowardhan-puja, more importance have been given to develop local industries to encourage employment in various fields.  For example:

1. Use of earthen idols, lamps etc. to develop pottery.
2. Use of paddy-rice blooms for worshipping Goddess Laxmi
3. Tradition to prepare ‘Annakoot’ by cooking after mixing maximum possible vegetables locally available to emphasize importance of green leaves and other vegetables.
4. Celebrating birthday of God Dhanvantari on Dhanteras for developing Ayurvedic pharmacy
5. Tradition to buy new clothes and ornaments for strengthening business.

Importance of relationship: Human relations are the backbone of business and industry management. Maximum importance has been given to develop relationship among people engaged in different fields. Relationships are strengthened with festivity and exchange of sweets and gifts. It has, therefore, been a tradition to distribute sweets and gifts to others attached in the area.

Criteria for selection of the day for Diwali: For the celebration of Diwali, our ancient Rishis decided for the day when the astronomical condition is such that minds of human-beings need maximum boost for the beginning of all good things in life such as health, wealth, starting a new venture for growth and great relationships.

Astronomical condition on the occasion of Diwali: On the days of Diwali festival, the Sun, and the Moon are in conjunction and placed in Libra zodiac sign in Swati constellation. Libra rules business and professional life. So, starting a new venture is considered to be auspicious. The business community Prepare the balance sheet for the business and consider it an auspicious time to start new ventures, as the festival coincides with the Hindu New Year.

On this new moon day, with the sun debilitated and the moon completely dark and very close to debilitation, the inner light (and the personal experience of it, as shown by the moon) is much harder to feel and perceive. Thus, as a way to bring more intention and remembrance to the light within, we celebrate with an external “row of lights”. Swati is a feminine constellation in the sky, so, it was considered good for worshipping Goddess Laxmi, Saraswati and Kali devi. To start with always Lord Ganesha is worshipped. The accepted leader of all ‘Ganas’ is `Ganesha. Lord Ganesha is the personification of Buddhi signifying that in him, the mind and intellect are totally integrated. Lord Ganesh is the god of wisdom and remover of obstacles.

The festival of lights which is celebrated in the month of Kartik usually lasts five days, starting from Dhanteras, followed by Narak Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali), Lakshmi Pujan (Badi Diwali), Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj.

DAY ONE (DHAN TERAS): In order to give prime importance to health, the festival of Diwali actually starts with the celebration of the birth of Dhanwantari, a manifestation of Vishnu which is the master of Ayurveda (the knowledge of life), the god of good health, medicine, and all healing sciences. He came up from the churning of the cosmic ocean, with the pot of Nectar or “Amrit” in his hands. He prepared the ‘samhitas’ (the great texts) on Ayurveda in eight divisions (Ashtangas) for the benefit of humanity.

DAY TWO (CHHOTI DIWALI OR NARAK CHATURDASHI): The health could be sustained only if cleanliness is maintained to the extent that even drainage is shining when it is lightened.  Many people take a ritual bath before sunrise, rubbing massage oil and ‘uptan’ (a paste of garam flour and fragrant powders) onto their bodies to relieve tension. People clean and decorate their homes with clay lamps specially at the places of drainages to ensure that the perfect cleanliness has been achieved.

DAY THREE (MAIN DIWALI DAY): Materialistic happiness could be arranged only through wealth. Goddess of wealth is Lakshmi. As the sun sets, prayers are paid to Lakshmi and Ganesh. Lakshmi, the divine female principle, the divine mother in her pure benign form, who bestows prosperity and all good qualities is worshiped and celebrated on this day. Then dozens of clay lamps are arranged around the house.

DAY FOUR (GOVARDHAN PUJA): The wealth could be created only when new ventures are started and due care is given to the local resources. This day is considered as the first day of the new business year, when friends and relatives visit with gifts and best wishes for the season. Annakuta (mixed vegetables) is cooked, and Govardhan puja is celebrated signifying the worship of local resources of wealth. The day commemorates when Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from torrential rains and flooding.

DAY FIVE (BHAI DOOJ): In order to sustain long-term happiness, maintenance of relationship is important. This is the day signifying the importance of relationship for the wellbeing and growth. Relationship between brother and sister is considered to be the most auspicious.

गीता पंचम अध्याय श्लोक (21-29 ) Gita-Chapter 5 Verses (21–29)

योग सुख

बाह्यस्पर्शेष्वसक्तात्मा विन्दत्यात्मनि यत्सुखम्‌ ।

स ब्रह्मयोगयुक्तात्मा सुखमक्षयमश्नुते ॥21॥

जो अनासक्त बाहर के इंद्रिय भोग में|

पाये सुख स्व-आत्मा के संग संयोग में||

वह ब्रह्म से आत्मा को कर योग युक्त |

अनंत सुख भोगता इस अक्षय उपभोग में||

A person not attracted to material sense pleasure but enjoying the pleasure within enjoys unlimited happiness, for he concentrates on the Supreme. Being united with Supreme through Yoga, they experience unending happiness.

ये हि संस्पर्शजा भोगा दुःखयोनय एव ते ।

आद्यन्तवन्तः कौन्तेय न तेषु रमते बुधः ॥22॥

इंद्रियों के स्पर्श से जनित सुख जो रहे भोग|

दुखों के ही श्रोत वे सब देते नित शरीर-रोग||

इंद्रिय-सुख ऐसे जिनका आदि है व अंत भी|

बुद्धिमान न इनमें रमन हित करते संयोग||

All sense objects when contacted by sense organs can give pleasure and pain. Mere presence of sense organ or a sense object does not provide pleasure. Both have to come in contact with each other. Pleasures born out of contact between sense organs and sense objects are termed as samsparshajaha bhogaha.  Though, pleasures appear wonderful, they also bring along with them some pain as well. The reason for this pain is that all contact born pleasures have a beginning and an end. With arrival one gets pleasure but when they depart, they leave pain.  There are three types of pain. They are: 1) pain from acquisition, 2) Pain from preservation and 3) Pain from loss. Thus, the enjoyments that are born of contacts are only generators of pain, for they have a beginning and an end. O son of Kunti, the wise do not rejoice in them.

शक्नोतीहैव यः सोढुं प्राक्शरीरविमोक्षणात्‌ ।

कामक्रोधोद्भवं वेगं स युक्तः स सुखी नरः ॥23॥

कामक्रोध-जनित वेग सहने में जो समर्थ |

इससे पहले कि यह शरीर हो जाए व्यर्थ ||

वही योगी और वही है सबसे सुखी-व्यक्ति|

उसने ही समझ लिया जीने का सच्चा अर्थ||

Only those who have developed within themselves the capacity to bear the force of desire & anger are eligible to attain liberation. Before the body starts acting under the pressure of desire and anger, one should be able to withstand this pressure and not allow oneself to act under its evil influence. We could achieve a state where we are not affected by desire or anger. desire and anger are defects existing in and arising out of nature.

 योऽन्तःसुखोऽन्तरारामस्तथान्तर्ज्योतिरेव यः ।

स योगी ब्रह्मनिर्वाणं ब्रह्मभूतोऽधिगच्छति ॥24॥

जो अंतरात्मा में ही सुख करता अनुभव।

जो अंतर्मन-विचरण से रमन करे संभव॥

अंतर्ज्योति से प्रकाशित है बुद्धि जिसकी।

वह योगी मुक्त, ब्रह्म से पृथक असंभव॥

He who is able to relish happiness from within, and who is illuminated within, that Yogi attains absolute freedom or Moksha, himself becoming Brahman. He can enjoy the activities of life from within. Such a liberated person no longer desires external material happiness. This state is called brahma-bhūta and attains the status of Brahm.

लभन्ते ब्रह्मनिर्वाणमृषयः क्षीणकल्मषाः ।

छिन्नद्वैधा यतात्मानः सर्वभूतहिते रताः ॥25॥

मुक्ति प्राप्त करते ज्ञानार्थी ऋषियों जैसे।

पाप कर्म सभी नष्टकर चुके वे सब ऐसे॥

कोई द्विविधा नहीं, रखे स्वयं को वश में।

सर्व प्राणी मात्र के हित मे लगे रहें कैसे॥

One who has his body, mind, intellect and senses under control, who is immersed in the service of others, who has all his doubts cleared, whose mind is engaged within, attains the Eternal Supreme.

कामक्रोधवियुक्तानां यतीनां यतचेतसाम्‌ ।

अभितो ब्रह्मनिर्वाणं वर्तते विदितात्मनाम्‌ ॥26॥

जो कामनाएं और क्रोध से भी है रहित।

ऋषियों जैसे जीता स्वयं को चित्त सहित॥

दोनों ही ओर से वे ब्रह्म मुक्त हैं सदा।

सर्वदा आत्मसाक्षात्कार में जो हैं निहित॥

Those saints who are free from desire and anger, who have control over his mind and self, and who have achieved self-realization, have liberation from both sides or assured of liberation.

स्पर्शान्कृत्वा बहिर्बाह्यांश्चक्षुश्चैवान्तरे भ्रुवोः ।

प्राणापानौ समौ कृत्वा नासाभ्यन्तरचारिणौ ॥27॥

बाहरी-विषय-भोगों को जब कर दिया बाहर।

नेत्र को केंद्रित किया दोनों भोहों मध्यांतर॥

दोनों नासिकाओं के अंतर में विचरने वाली।

श्वासों प्रश्वासों को भी संतुलन में लाकर॥

Shutting out external contacts and fixing the gaze between the eye-brows, equalising the outgoing and incoming breath moving within the nostrils. One of the most direct means of balancing the energies and causing prana to flow in Sushumna is by attention of mind on the flow of breath at the nostrils. By attending to the lesser flowing nostril, it will gradually open. By attending to the other, they will both flow more freely.  

Meditation at ajna chakra: Because of this convergence of Ida and Pingala at the point of the ganglion of ribes and the ajna chakra, meditation on this space is extremely useful and often recommended. For those who have the ability to gently focus here, there is great benefit in calming the gross breath, balancing Ida and Pingala, and stilling the mind.

Breath at the nostrils: One of the most direct means of balancing the energies and causing prana to flow in Sushumna is by attention of mind on the flow of breath at the nostrils. By attending to the lesser flowing nostril, it will gradually open. By attending to the other, they will both flow more freely. When attending to both as one steady flow, the peace of Sushumna awakening gradually comes. While this practice can sound very simple, it requires a gentle persistence and a good ability to focus attention.

यतेन्द्रियमनोबुद्धिर्मुनिर्मोक्षपरायणः ।

विगतेच्छाभयक्रोधो यः सदा मुक्त एव सः॥28॥

इंद्रिय मन बुद्धि को स्वयं कर संयमित।

जो मुनि होना चाहें मोक्ष हित संकल्पित॥

किन्तु सर्वदा से ही वह तो मोक्ष पा चुके।

इच्छा भय व क्रोध से जो हो चुके रहित॥

In Karma-yoga sacrifice of external objects is achieved through the attitude of selfless service for others’ welfare. In fact, external objects are no hurdles in themselves, the real hurdle is assuming relationship with them due to attraction of attachment. If one doesn’t accept any relationship with the body the liberation occurs automatically. This has control over his organs, mind and intellect and is free from desire, fear and anger.

भोक्तारं यज्ञतपसां सर्वलोकमहेश्वरम्‌ ।

सुहृदं सर्वभूतानां ज्ञात्वा मां शान्तिमृच्छति ॥29॥

जानकर भोक्ता सभी साधना यज्ञ तप का।

महान ईश्वर हो सभी लोकों के पालक का॥

सर्व प्राणी मात्र का सुहृद मित्र जान भक्त।

मुझे प्राप्त करता सदा शांति चित्त जिनका॥

Knowing Me to be the final recipient and consumer of all sacrifices and austerities, recognizing Me as the Mighty God of infinite worlds perceiving Me as the selfless, merciful and loving friend of all living creatures, the devotees attain lasting peace.

Learning

1. The Instability of mind gives us distress. For example, we become happy if my dearest person meets and become sad when he leaves.
2. All sense objects when contacted by sense organs can give pleasure and pain. Pleasures born out of contact between sense organs and sense objects are termed as samsparshajaha bhogaha.  Both have to come in contact with each other. We also develop emotional contacts.
3. Pleasures appear wonderful, they also bring along with them some pain as well. The reason for this pain is that all contact born pleasures have a beginning and an end. With arrival one gets pleasure but when they depart, they leave pain. All objects are a mixture of pleasure and pain.
4. We desire and when we do not get that we become angry and pained. So, if we want to live in inexhaustible pleasure, we must defeat our desires and kill the anger which is the source of all the pain.
5. A liberated person enjoys happiness from within. Such a liberated person no longer desires external material happiness. This state is called brahma-bhūta, attaining which one is assured of going back to Godhead, back to home.
6. Desire, fear and anger disbalance the total hormonal system of the body. These are the sources of all disease.
7. Peaceful mind gives us extra energy to solve all the problems we face. Thus, we are with the Supreme whether we are in this body or left it.

NEED FOR CELEBRATION OF NAVDURGA

HUMAN LIFE

There are two aspects to human life:

1.  Physical body, the material,

2.  The inner self or the soul, the spiritual

In order to function to fulfil both the aspects properly, human-being require four types of energy:

1. Physical energy: Depends upon eating habits, exercise, proper sleep, etc.
2. Mental energy: Depends upon mental alertness and focus of mind.
3. Emotional energy: Negatively charged or positively charged
4. Spiritual energy: Depends upon compassion, and enjoy the joy of others.

These energies do not depend solely on food or exercise. Our thoughts, will, feeling, muscular strength, proper action of organs and glands ­ all depend for their existence on the Life Force.  

Cosmic Energy and Life force

Cosmic Energy is within and around us, recharging the body at all times with the desired life force. Icchā Shakti (willpower) is the force that finally provides the impulse of the life force for the removal of the rocks of Karmas and cumbersome qualities once and for all.

The more we depend on the will and Cosmic Energy to sustain ourselves, the less are our food requirements; because the more we depend on food, the weaker our will and the less our recourse to Cosmic Energy.

Innate Energy from Mother: We receive 50% nuclear DNA from mother and 50% from father.
But we receive 100% mitochondrial DNA from mother. Mitochondrial DNA is the small circular chromosome found inside mitochondria. These organelles found in cells have often been called the powerhouse of the cell. The mitochondria, and thus mitochondrial DNA, are passed almost exclusively from mother to offspring through the egg cell.
Mitochondria produce ATP. ATP is energy currency of biological system. For everything we do, we require ATP.  ATP is source of energy for doing all activities. It means we receive Power (energy DNA) from mother. Mothers had received from their respective mothers … And so on.
So, God of Power is Mother only. That is the reason energy is always called the Mother; such as  ‘Ma-Adi-shakti’ or ‘Ma Durga’.

The Sanskrit word Durga (दुर्ग) means fort or a place that is protected and thus difficult to reach. It is derived from the roots ‘dur (दुर्)‘ (difficult) and ‘gam (गम)‘ (pass, go through). Thus, DURGA refers to a fortress that we build to protect ourselves from marauders. Our body and mind acts as a fortress for us; and body’s immune system is the army that  defends our body-systems from the outside environment and foreign bodies such as micro organism, bacteria and viruses.

Thus, Durga is the psychological fortress of our body and mind that we build with the help of the life energy by making a system leading life and get them audited regularly by regulating our life style.

ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGES AND HUMAN-BEING: During rainy season Pitta पित्त is accumulated after that Pitta पित्त is provoked (कुपित) during the fall, when the winter approaches. During this period human body becomes more prone to diseases as it is less resistant, both physically and mentally to the attack of outside environment, micro organism, bacteria and viruses. In order to take remedial measures to combat the possible disease, we need to renew our body and mind i.e. fortress. So, this period has been termed as NAV DURGA.

After generations of observation or investigation, our great saints (Rishis) concluded that the “key lies in the heavens i.e. positions of stars in the sky”. Zodiac or Rasi Chakraराशि-चक्र is a circular path with constellations as mile stones.

 After keen observation and research our saints recorded the properties of these constellations and designed rituals in symmetry with them.

Aswin Maasआश्विन मास is when Full Moon-day forms in Aswini star. During this month before sun rise on the horizon, we can visualise the constellation “Simha” सिंह-राशि (Leo) and later Kanya कन्या-राशि (Virgo) on the horizon as ascendants. Hence we can visualises the image  as a “a young woman sitting on lion”. This is the image of Goddess Durga (देवी दुर्गा). Both the major planets the Sun and the Moon reaches to Kanya कन्या-राशि (Virgo). Earlier to that both the planets were on “Simha” सिंह-राशि (Leo). It is well known fact that the Sun affects the health our body and the Moon affects the health of our mind.

The lion is a symbol of uncontrolled animalistic tendencies such as anger, arrogance, selfishness, greed, jealousy, desire to harm others etc. The image of  Durga on lion reminds us to have a control on these tendencies and protect our mind from vitiating from these evil tendencies.

NavDurga signifies that we should renew our body system (DURGA) by detoxifying through keeping fast, purifying the environment by HAVAN or YAGYA. Also we need to get rid of all the negative feelings and emotions. Our nervous system needs to be strengthened by performing a specific meditation (SADHANA) and prayer each night of NAVRATRI in the manner specified for that (NAV DURGA) day in order to rejuvenate our mind and nerves in order to make our body capable to fight disease and get success in life.

Thus, there are three rituals that are followed during Nav-Durga days in order to stregthen our own two fortress (Durga दुर्ग) body and mind:

1.         Fasting

2.         Yagya

3.         Prayer and Celebration

According to Ayurveda, fasting enegises the digestive fire. An increase in the digestive fire burns the toxins in the body. When the toxins are flushed out of the body, it loses dullness and lethargy. It helps in de-stressing and building up immunity. All the cells of the body are rejuvenated. Fasting, therefore, is an effective therapy to cleanse our body.

When the body is cleansed, the mind becomes calmer and more peaceful and alert because of the deep connection between the body and mind. When you are fasting, you are detoxified, and your prayer becomes authentic and deep. Yagya and Havan purifies the environment from bacterias and viruses that may cause diseases. Prayer and celebrations  fill us with the positive energythat strengthen our nervous system.

These celebrations motivate us to contribute for the society as a whole as we are enjoying today the fruits of the actions earlier performed by the society only. Prayer and celebrations for that fill us with the positive energy that strengthen our nervous system.

Celebration of Nav-Durga: The best way of celebrating is to energise the body and mind through prayer and focusing on sensing nerves and motor nerves passing through the spinal cord and connecting different parts of the body to the brain.

1^st Day Goddess Durga Shailputri: The first chakra, muladhara, is located in the base of the spine. Here, the energy manifests as inertia or enthusiasm. The positive attributes of the Muladhara Chakra are vitality, vigour and growth. The negative qualities are laziness, inertia, self-centredness and domination by one’s physical desires. The root chakra rules the base of the spine, the rectum, lower limbs and supports the physical body, bones, and immune system. It also controls our mental and emotional thought patterns that can cause an imbalance. Physical dysfunction related to imbalances leads to chronic lower back pain, varicose veins, rectal tumour or cancer, depression, and immune-related disorders.

2nd Day Goddess Durga Bramhacharini: By worshiping this form of Goddess Durga, and balancing this chakra just below naval center, one becomes creative. Itis the sex centre just four inches above the base of the spine vibrating from the pubic bone. This chakra is linked with the Adrenal gland which secretes a hormone named Adrenaline. When this gland functions well and there is no blockage of energy, one is self- confident. Adrenaline induces enthusiasm, courage, faith and strength etc. and prepares the body and mind to endure or react in cold, heat, defence, struggle, self-defence etc. Under the influence of this hormone, one tries to create his own identity and existence. It is the seat of the subconscious mind where all life experiences and impressions since the beginning of our existence in the womb are stored. When negative emotions arise from the subconscious to the conscious state, we can be completely put off balance.

3rd Day Goddess Durga Chandraghanta: The third day, one should focus is in the navel region located on the solar plexus in the lower thoracic area, at the controlling point of the pancreas. This is closely tied to the digestive fire and heat regulation.  Here energy manifests as four emotions: Generosity, joy, greed and jealousy (two positive and two negative emotions). Pancreas is the corresponding gland of this chakra. This chakra helps in producing digestive juices and a hormone named insulin which oxidises glucose and provides strength to the body.  Imbalances may be in the form of liver and kidney disorders, diarrhoea, indigestion, and other digestive issues. In case of imbalance, one feels lonely and neglected are unable to think clearly, to express his thoughts and feelings. Numerous complaints such as Diabetes, skin diseases, cardio-vascular diseases, Gout, Arthritis, rheumatic diseases, many types of migraines, allergies and many more can trace their origin back to a lack of energy within the Manipūra Chakra and a badly functioning digestive system.

The energies of Prāna and Apāna meet at the naval point. They represent the two basic functions of giving and taking, expansion and contraction, assimilation and elimination. Apāna is the “eliminating power” that brings about detoxification through excretion, secretion and exhalation. Its seat is in the lower abdomen. If Apāna Vāyu cannot flow freely then it results in toxicity within the body. Illnesses or diseases that affect the lower abdomen, intestines, kidneys, urinary tract, legs, etc., result from a disturbance of Apāna Vāyu.

4th Day Goddess Durga Kushmanda: For this in the chest region where energy manifests as three emotions ­ love, fear and hatred. The Thymus gland which motivates the body to fight bacteria and viruses is also located here.

The thymus gland, located between lungs, is only active until puberty. Thymosin is the hormone of the thymus, and it stimulates the development of disease-fighting T cells. Before birth and throughout childhood, the thymus is instrumental in the production and maturation of T-lymphocytes or T cells, a specific type of white blood cell that protects the body from certain threats, including viruses and infections. T cells gain their name as they mature in the thymus. The thymus gland is also helping the body protect itself against autoimmunity, which occurs when the immune system turns against itself. 

After puberty, the thymus starts to slowly shrink and become replaced by fat. The thymus reaches its maximum weight (about 1 ounce) during puberty. by age 65, we are basically unable to make new T cells. As the organ shrinks, the T cell areas are replaced with fatty tissue. By age 75, the thymus is little more than fatty tissue. Fortunately, the thymus produces all of your T cells by the time you reach puberty. Though the thymus gland is only active until puberty, its double-duty function as an endocrine and lymphatic gland plays a significant role in your long-term health.

Anahat chakra is the centre of love and compassion — not possession or selfish emotions — located in the thoracic region, lies in the heart, (the solar plexus) and is associated with air (atmosphere) i.e. related with Vata. These represent the Divine qualities of the heart, such as bliss, peace, harmony, love, understanding, empathy, clarity, purity, unity, compassion, kindness and forgiveness. However, the Heart Centre is also the centre of emotions and feelings.  It emits a mysterious cosmic vibration as of un-struck sound. That is sound beyond the realm of senses.

5^th Day Goddess Durga Skand Mata: Poisons can enter through a wrong thought, emotion, idea, or impulse in our life. An active Vishuddhi saves us from all these influences. The vishuddhi Chakra is located in the throat region where energy manifests as two emotions ­gratitude and grief. Vishuddhi Chakra is the starting point of Udana Prana. It is a function of this Prana to purify the body of toxic substances while breathing. Thyroid and Para-thyroid glands are also positioned here which help in the physical and mental development. These glands keep on check on the level of iodine and calcium in the body and maintain the strength of the bones.

Blockage of the Vishuddhi Chakra produces feelings of anxiety, lack of freedom, restriction, thyroid and throat problems. There may be swallowing problems and speech impediments. If this chakra is inactive and unbalanced there may be diseases related to thyroid gland and throat and find himself in pain and sadness without any obvious reason. If the person is unable to express himself/herself freely, it causes a constriction of the windpipe, which could result in asthma.

6th Day Goddess Durga Katyayani: By worshipping Goddess Katyayani, the worshipper is bestowed with awakening of AGYA CHAKRA. The Agya chakra is located between the eyebrows It is also known as the “third eye”. The Agya Chakra is the centre of clarity and wisdom. It forms the boundary between human and Divine consciousness. It is the meeting point of the three principle Nadis, Ida (Moon Nadi), Pingala (Sun Nadi) and Sushumna (Central Nadi).  The Ajna Chakra controls and energizes the pituitary gland, the endocrine glands and the brain to a certain extent. This chakra provides soundness to the mental state of a person. When a person’s Ajna Chakra is strong, he will smile even when he is under tremendous pressure. A strong Ajna Chakra ensures active intelligence- intelligence along with the ability to take action. The Ajna Chakra is the Master Chakra that controls all the hormone glands. One is able to accomplish his tasks with determination and zeal. It is the center where cosmic energy from the universe enters the body and feeds it with prana or conscious life force.

By group activities like exercise, music and dance and other creative activities in group, endorphins are produced by pituitary gland and central nervous system. Endorphins is the pain-killing molecules. These neurotransmitters act to increase feelings of pleasure and well-being and also to reduce pain and discomfort.

7th Day Goddess Durga Kaalratri: Devi Kalratri destroys all negative energies. In this form Goddess Kalratri killed Raktabeej. She has a divine light and is an eternal source of wisdom.  On the seventh day, the goddess of art and knowledge, Goddess Saraswati is worshipped. The Crown Chakra governs the top of the spinal cord, brain stem, pain centre and nerves. It is the centre of enlightenment, dynamic thought, truth and oneness. By this, all the ill effects caused due to diseases get permanently over. The hypothalamus, pituitary, and pineal glands play roles in spiritual experience.

The pineal gland produces melatonin, a serotonin derived hormone which modulates sleep patterns in both circadian and seasonal cycles. Pineal gland is considered to be the biological clock of the human body and it is also connected to the sight nerve. Melatonin which runs in the bloodstream and protects the body from cancer. Insufficient secretion of melatonin will lead to sleep problems. Oxytocin is produced in the hypothalamus. Oxytocin is the essence of affection, the hormone secreted by the pituitary gland in the brain that bonds interpersonal relationship in couples as well as good psychological effects to one.

Endorphins is the pain-killing molecules

8th Day Goddess Durga Gauri: On 8th day (Astami) Navratri, the devotees worship Mother Gauri by experiencing that their mind is being filled with coolness emanating from the moon and slowly their mind is becoming quiet and calm. Success is achieved through positive thinking and positive doing i.e. attraction + action. If you want to transform yourself, you have to change on the inside (the mind) first and then everything else will follow. As you give access to your mind for new convictions, new thoughts are making their way in your subconscious.

9th Day Goddess Durga ‘Siddhidatri’: When the whole body has already been made free of toxicity and energised and also mind is calm and quiet, one is to pray the Goddess Siddhidatri to bestow with success in all walks of life. Siddhi means accomplishment, fulfilment, complete attainment, and success. It relates to the successful achieving one’s goal. In her ninth manifestation as Siddhidatri, she represents peace, knowledge and supernatural power. Devotee worship Durga to gain positive energy, to cleanse their mind so as to attain purity and salvation. A pure mind helps devotees concentrate on their routine. Durga embodies Shakti, the dynamic aspect of ultimate reality and its role in creation, protection and transformation. Durga also embodies empowerment of women and reverence for them. Durga gives the eternal message of hope and assurance for divine intervention in times of trouble.

Anything that changes is Prakriti. Mahishasur controlled all the divine power by enslaving nature. Thus, ecological balance of the nature resulting into draught. The Nature in the form of Siddhi-Datri restored all the blessings to the human-beings after killing Mahishasur in her Katyayani form. Shakti is the principal energy maintaining the balance of the universe.

 NAVDURGA SCIENTIFIC FACTS

The universe is created from the Energy which pervades everywhere and had existed on its own all along throughout a timeless eternity in one or other form of the energy. Supreme Energy that is being recognized as the Super power or Supreme God/ Goddess. Adishakti (आदि शक्ति) is the name given as per Indian mythology.

 Scientific theories proved that matter is no more than insubstantial fields of energy moving in a great emptiness (space) or ‘shunya’(शून्य) that pervades and surrounds everything. Thus, all objects and living things have no substance except as bundle of energy. Thus, different stars and planets like sun, moon, earth, etc. have been formed from the energy and sustained in the universe with the help of the forces like gravitational, nuclear, and electromagnetic forces. Gross elements (earth, water, air, fire and space) were created.

Adishakti (Initial supreme energy) created these three types of forces in the form of Trinity of great Gods. The Trinity of great Gods Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu are the forms of universal forces: Nuclear forces, Gravitational forces, and Electro-magnetic forces respectively.

Other gods (Devas) are divine powers within this material universe or nature. They represent spirits behind specific posts in the affairs of running the world of nature; such as Agni Dev (the god of fire), Vayu Dev (the god of the wind), Varuṇa Dev (the god of the ocean), Indra Dev (the king of the celestial gods), etc.

As administrators of various processes of the universe, these gods provide us with rain, wind, crops, vegetation, minerals, fertile soil, etc. We human beings are indebted to them for all that we receive from them. These gods perform their duty, and expect us to perform our duty in the proper consciousness too. They become pleased when someone performs a sacrifice for whole, and in turn assist by creating favorable material conditions. Thus, it is said that when we strongly resolve to serve God, the universe begins to cooperate with us.

LIFE ENERGY: The universe is made up of energy, and the language of energy is waves and frequencies. Scientists have detected that at every dimension of life, including the human body, subtle energy layers are vibrating beneath the visible world of matter. Everything in the universe being energy, even the so-called lifeless objects are also vibrating and capable of responding and changing under the influence of vibrations.

Energy system in human-being: There are two aspects to human life:

1.  One that relates to the physical body, the material,

2.  The other that relates to the inner self or the soul, the spiritual

Cosmic Energy is within and around us, recharging the body at all times with vitality. We can call on that eternal supply to make the body fit in every respect.

Life Energy and willpower: Life and strength do not depend solely on food or exercise, but are sustained from the powers within.

• The more we depend on the will and Cosmic Energy to sustain ourselves, the less are our food requirements;
• the more we depend on food, the weaker our will and the less our recourse to Cosmic Energy.

Our thoughts, will, feeling, muscular strength, proper action of organs and glands ­ all depend for their existence on the Life Force. Billions of body cells are kept alive, properly working through this secret vital power. By consciously willing, we can draw Life Energy into the body through the medulla oblongata to replenish the energy that is expended through thoughts, feelings, and physical activities. Accordingly, our life is comprised of two kinds of energy.

Conscious energy: When we observe silently and eyes closed, we notice only those activities we have control over. This is conscious energy with which we function consciously.Conscious energy, however, normally, is uni-tasking. That is, it cannot do more than one task (action or thought) at a time. We can, on our own, see the speed and variety of thoughts in our mind at any time.

Unconscious energy:  The other energy that operates in inner body organs and is not noticeable is unconscious energy. This unconscious energy is common to all living beings, as we are all connected to the cosmos through breathing. Animals, birds and plants breathe as we do without any control over this. So, the pool of unconscious energy is common and we are given our share rhythmically, as determined by the beautiful but chaotic rules of the cosmos. We don’t breathe, the cosmos breathes for us. Unconscious energy is multitasking.

The non-unifocused state of an individual’s conscious energy demands additional energy which is stolen from the unconscious domain which in turn cuts short the share of energy of unconscious parts and builds up stress in those inner organs.

When we are in anger, we require more energy than that can be supplied fully by the conscious domain. Therefore, it steals some energy from the unconscious domain which in turn tries to compensate by breathing more and by increasing heartbeats. In anger we stress the conscious-self and unintentionally stress the unconscious energy causing our breathing and heartbeat to become abnormal.

In order to function properly, human-being require four types of energy:

1. Physical energy: Depends upon eating habits, exercise, proper sleep, etc.

2. Mental energy: One should be mentally alert and focussed.

3. Emotional energy: Negatively charged or positively charged

4. Spiritual energy: A person who has compassion, who enjoy the joy of others, who are         helping others. One should not be selfish always.

As energy becomes more subtle it becomes more pervasive. The energy of the body is not as fine as the energy of the breath. The energy of thought is even subtler and emanates from pure consciousness which makes it the most pervasive.

– Energy always carries a charge. Similar charges attract each other; that is why anger incites anger and trust begets trust.

– Energy is communicative. This can influence our responses and physical health.

– A low energy system can drain a person with a high level of energy.

All people we interact with daily ­ including our closest of family ­ require some amount of energy from us. Fortunately, the same also replenish energy. Given the demands of day-to-day life, we must replenish ourselves frequently with self-loving choices and actions to keep our spirit light-hearted and energised.

Innate Energy from Mother: We receive 50% nuclear DNA from mother and 50% from father.
But we receive 100% mitochondrial DNA from mother. Mitochondrial DNA is the small circular chromosome found inside mitochondria. These organelles found in cells have often been called the powerhouse of the cell. The mitochondria, and thus mitochondrial DNA, are passed almost exclusively from mother to offspring through the egg cell.
Mitochondria produce ATP. ATP is energy currency of biological system. For everything we do, we require ATP.  ATP is source of energy for doing all activities. It means we receive Power (energy DNA) from mother. Mothers had received from their respective mothers … And so on.
So, God of Power is Mother only. That is the reason energy is always called the Mother; such as  ‘Ma-Adi-shakti’ or ‘Ma Durga’.

ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGES AND HUMAN-BEING: Twice in a year such conditions prevail in Nature that indicate the major changes in the environment around us; one is when the winter approaches and the other when the summer approaches. Because of the begining of the change of season, during these periods human body becomes more prone to diseases as it is less resistant, both physically and mentally to the attack of outside environment, micro organism, bacteria and viruses. Our body acts as a fortress  for us; and body’s immune system is the army that  defends our body-systems from the outside environment and foreign bodies such as micro organism, bacteria and viruses.

The Sanskrit word Durga (दुर्ग) means fort or a place that is protected and thus difficult to reach. It is derived from the roots ‘dur (दुर्)‘ (difficult) and ‘gam (गम)‘ (pass, go through). Thus, DURGA refers to a fortress that we build to protect ourselves from marauders. That is why these two periods have been termed as NAV DURGA also. Thus, Durga is the psychological fortress of our body and mind that we build by making a system leading life and get them audited regularly by regulating our life style.

Remedial measures to combat the possible disease is the deep significance in celebrating the NAV-DURGA.

Zodiac and constellation: After generations of observation or investigation, our great saintss (Sages) concluded that the “key lies in the heavens”. They divided the apparent sky into stellar zones for reference, like we divide land by fixing fences!

Zodiac or Rasi Chakraराशि-चक्र is a circular path with constellations as mile stones. These stellar zones are termed as constellations, stars, asterisms etc. Therefore, at any point of time a constellation will rise in the east and another constellation which is 180 degrees away from it sets in the west. After keen observation and research our saints recorded the properties of these constellations and designed rituals in symmetry with them. Among the constellations, those rise and set in a particular period have strongest influence on our nature.

Aswin Maasआश्विन मास is when Full Moon day forms in Aswini star. During this month before sun rise on the horizon, we can visualise the constellation “Simha” सिंह-राशि (Leo) and later Kanya कन्या-राशि (Virgo) on the horizon as ascendants. Hence we can visualises the image  as a “a young woman sitting on lion”. This is the image of Goddess Durga (देवी दुर्गा). Both the major planets the Sun and the Moon reaches to Kanya कन्या-राशि (Virgo). Earlier to that both the planets were on “Simha” सिंह-राशि (Leo). It is well known fact that the Sun affects the health our body and the Moon affects the health of our mind.

Nav-Durga signifies that we should renew our body system (DURGA) by detoxifying through fasting and purifying the environment by HAVAN or YAGYA. According to Ayurveda, fasting enegises the digestive fire. An increase in the digestive fire burns the toxins in the body. When the toxins are flushed out of the body, it loses dullness and lethargy. It helps in de-stressing and building up immunity. All the cells of the body are rejuvenated. Fasting, therefore, is an effective therapy to cleanse our body.

Also, we need to get rid of all the negative feelings and emotions. Our nervous system needs to be strengthened by performing a specific meditation (SADHANA) each night of NAVRATRI in the manner specified for that (NAV DURGA) day in order to rejuvenate our mind and nerves in order to make our body capable to fight disease and get success in life. These celebrations motivate us to contribute for the society as a whole as we are enjoying today the fruits of the actions earlier performed by the society only. Prayer and celebrations for that fill us with the positive energy that strengthen our nervous system.

Celebration of Na-Durga: The best way of celebrating is to energise the body and mind. There are seven centres of energy or Shakti in the body called energy centres (chakras in Sanskrit). In modern medical science, we are studying about the sensing nerves and motor nerves passing through the spinal cord and connecting different parts of the body to the brain. The Chakras are thought to represent the whole body with the Goddess Durga Devi in different forms, residing in different chakras. Different emotions are linked with each of these energy centres.

These chakras manage our body’s energy. They receive, assimilate and distribute energy to our energy centres. Malfunctioning of chakras triggered by negative thoughts and actions may restrict the movements of the life force from one to other and cause the energy system to haywire. You could fall ill. So, tuning of the chakras continually is vital for regular upkeep of physical, mental and emotional health. Balancing chakras is central to our wellbeing.

1. 1^st  Day Goddess Durga Shailputri: The divine root chakra (MOOLADHAR CHAKRA) helps devotees begin their path of self-realization. The first chakra, muladhara, is located in the base of the spine. Here, the energy manifests as inertia or enthusiasm. The positive attributes of the Muladhara Chakra are vitality, vigour and growth. The negative qualities are laziness, inertia, self-centredness and domination by one’s physical desires.The root chakra rules the base of the spine, the rectum, lower limbs and supports the physical body, bones, and immune system. It also controls your mental and emotional thought patterns that can cause an imbalance. It is linked to the unconscious mind, where our actions and experience from past lives are stored. This Chakra is also the foundation for the development of our personality.

In the symbolic picture of the Muladhara Chakra there is a Lotus with four petals representing the four functions of the psyche: mind (Manas), intellect (Buddhi), consciousness (Chitta) and ego (Ahamkara) – all of which originate in this Chakra.

Life is consciousness and consciousness strives for evolution. The symbols of the Muladhara Chakra are characteristic of both energy and upward movement indicating an upward expansion of consciousness. unfolding of consciousness towards human consciousness. The Chakra’s colour is red, the colour of Shakti.

Belief patterns stored in the root chakra include beliefs about family, community, law and justice, society, sexuality, survival issues, including thoughts of retaliation and revenge, and an inability to grow and express one’s self within the family.
Physical dysfunction related to imbalances leads to chronic lower back pain, varicose veins, rectal tumour or cancer, depression, and immune-related disorders.

MANTRA

वन्दे वांछितलाभाय चंद्रार्धकृत शेखरां

बृशारूढं शूलधारं शैलपुत्रीं यशस्विनीम्

Short Mantra     ॐ देवी शैलपुत्रै नमः

• 2nd Day Goddess Durga Bramhacharini: By worshiping this form of Goddess Durga, one develops the intent of sacrifice for creativity. For this concentration is required to wards the second energy centre, swadhistana chakra. Itis the sex centre just four inches above the base of the spine vibrating from the pubic bone. This chakra controls the sexual instincts. Here energy manifests as pro-creativity or creativity. This creation is a mental product rather than a physical one. Creativity gives one a pleasure and wonder that child feels on seeing a new object. Hence by balancing this chakra, one becomes creative. This chakra is linked with the Adrenal gland which secretes a hormone named Adrenaline. When this gland functions well and there is no blockage of energy, one is vey self confident. Adrenaline induces enthusiasm, courage, faith and strength etc. and prepares the body and mind to endure or react in cold, heat, defence, struggle, self defence etc. Under the influence of this hormone one tries to create his own identity and existence. He also make an effort to know his own self. The Svadhishthana Chakra marks the second level of our development. The evolution of consciousness towards pure, human consciousness begins in the Svadhishthana Chakra. It is the seat of the subconscious mind where all life experiences and impressions since the beginning of our existence in the womb are stored. Our negative qualities which are to be overcome – anger, hatred, jealousy, cruelty, desire and pride. Other base qualities that hinder our development are lethargy, fear, doubt, revenge, envy and greed. When negative emotions arise from the subconscious to the conscious state, we can be completely put off balance.

Awakening of the Svadhishthana Chakra brings clarity and development of the personality. But before this can happen, we must purify our consciousness of negative qualities. Orange is the colour of activity and purity. It indicates the positive qualities that unfold in this Chakra such as joy, faith, self-confidence and energy.

• 3rd Day Goddess Durga Chandraghanta: By worshipping this form of Goddess Durga, the Manipur Chakra is awakened in the worshipper. The third chakra, manipura, is in the navel region located on the solar plexus in the lower thoracic area, at the controlling point of the pancreas. Manipura is closely tied to the digestive fire and heat regulation.  Here energy manifests as four emotions: Generosity , joy, greed and jealousy (two positive and two negative emotions). Pancreas is the corresponding gland of this chakra. This chakra helps in producing digestive juices and a hormone named insuline which oxidises glucose and provides strength to the body. Manipura relates to the kidneys, adrenals, mid-spine, spleen, and stomach. Imbalances may be in the form of liver and kidney disorders, diarrhea, indigestion, and other digestive issues. When this chakra is completely balanced, his relation with others will always be cordial. Everyone likes meeting him. In case of imbalance one feels lonely and neglected. Activation of this chakra grants one the gift of speech and he becomes a gifted speaker and orator. The feelings of love and happiness that we feel in our heart actually originate in the Manipūra Chakra and rise from there to the Anāhata Chakra. The positive radiance emanating from the Manipūra Chakra also purifies the Svādhishthāna and Mūlādhāra Chakras and their qualities.

When the energy of our food is not properly absorbed, utilised and distributed in the Manipūra Chakra we feel tired, weak and ill, but with an active Manipūra Chakra the body is provided with sufficient energy, even if we have only eaten or slept a little. This is why the Manipūra Chakra is the most important energy centre for our physical well-being. An imbalance or blockage in the Manipūra Chakra paralyses and destroys our energy and triggers diverse physical and psychic problems. If we are unable to think clearly, to express our thoughts and feelings, or if our mind is foggy there is often a disturbance in the Manipūra Chakra. Numerous complaints such as Diabetes, skin diseases, cardio-vascular diseases, Gout, Arthritis, rheumatic diseases, many types of migraines, allergies and many more can trace their origin back to a lack of energy within the Manipūra Chakra and a badly functioning digestive system. The functioning of the Manipūra Chakra is closely connected to the Pancreas. A displacement of the Pancreas is an important cause for an imbalance in the Manipūra Chakra. If the Pancreas is in its correct position one can feel a slight pulse at the centre of the navel; but sometimes the pulse can be felt further to the left or right, or a little above or below the navel. Through this shift in position different disorders such as headache, migraine, diarrhoea, abdominal pains, a lack of energy or feelings of anxiety can occur.

The energies of Prāna and Apāna meet at the Manipūra Chakra. They represent the two basic functions of giving and taking, expansion and contraction, assimilation and elimination. Apāna is the “eliminating power” that brings about detoxification through excretion, secretion and exhalation. Its seat is in the lower abdomen. If Apāna Vāyu cannot flow freely then it results in toxicity within the body. Illnesses or diseases that affect the lower abdomen, intestines, kidneys, urinary tract, legs, etc., result from a disturbance of Apāna Vāyu.

The element of the Manipūra Chakra is fire, a symbol for activity and creativity. The colour of the Manipūra Chakra is YELLOW-ORANGE. In the Manipūra Chakra we have the unique opportunity to free ourselves once and for all of bad qualities and habits. When we consign our doubts and weaknesses, such as anger and envy, to the fire of the Manipūra it burns them to ash on the spot. Therefore we should not guide the energy of such emotions to the head or the heart where it causes blockages, tension and pain, but to our inner fireplace.

Passion becomes pure selfless love; through the light of wisdom, prejudice and aversion change to respect and understanding; and envy and insatiable greed change to goodwill and healthy moderation. With the gaining of self-confidence, pride and jealousy change to modesty and generosity, ignorance changes into clarity, and laziness into focussed, consistent effort.

• 4th Day Goddess Durga Kushmanda: By worshipping this form of Goddess Durga, the Anahat Chakra or cardiac chakra is awakened. Anahata nada = eternal sound the sound OM. The Anahata Chakra is the seat of the Divine Self (Atma). These represent the Divine qualities of the heart, such as bliss, peace, harmony, love, understanding, empathy, clarity, purity, unity, compassion, kindness and forgiveness. However, the Heart Centre is also the centre of emotions and feelings. The fourth Chakra, anahata, is located in the chest region where energy manifests as three emotions ­ love, fear and hatred. The Thymus gland which motivates the body to fight bacteria and viruses is also located here. Anahat chakra is the centre of love and compassion — not possession or selfish emotions — located in the thoracic region, lies in the heart, (the solar plexus) and is associated with air (atmosphere) i.e. related with Vata.  It emits a mysterious cosmic vibration as of un-struck sound. That is sound beyond the realm of senses. This gland is active in childhood and lies inert on his growing into an adult. Inactivity of this chakra may result in problems related to the lungs, liver and blood circulating system. An active and balanced chakra ensures emotional satisfaction and his heart is always full of love for everyone without any ill will for anyone.  Activation of this chakra Opens the way to self-realisation. Inactivity and imbalance of this chakra may present problem to heart and chest and emotional problem. If our consciousness sinks down to the spheres of worldly passion, our emotions become confused and unbalanced. It is then that desire, jealousy, sadness and despair overwhelm us. Concentration on this Chakra can develop one’s talent as an author or poet. Another power arising from Anahata Chakra is Sankalpa Shakti, the power to fulfil desires.

• 5^th Day Goddess Durga Skand Mata: Vishuddhi, essentially means filter. If your Vishuddhi is active, it filters everything. Poisons can enter you in many ways – a wrong thought, emotion, idea, energy, or impulse can poison your life. An active Vishuddhi saves you from all these influences. In other words, once your Vishuddhi is active, whatever happens around you will not have an impact on you anymore. The vishuddhi Chakra is located in the throat region where energy manifests as two emotions ­ gratitude and grief. Vishuddhi Chakra is the starting point of Udana Prana. It is a function of this Prana to purify the body of toxic substances while breathing. Thyroid and Para-thyroid glands are also positioned here which help in the physical and mental development. These glands keep on check on the level of iodine and calcium in the body and maintain the strength of the bones. Vishuddhi chakra is the seat of art and higher forms of creativity governing the highest physical aspect of creation, art, definitely over and above other physical aspects of creation. All artists have a pronounced vishuddhi chakra, but this centre is also directly connected with the swadhishthan.  It penetrates thyroid glands also and digestion increases. Until this Chakra is fully developed, certain difficulties may be experienced. Blockage of the Vishuddhi Chakra produces feelings of anxiety, lack of freedom, restriction, thyroid and throat problems. There may be swallowing problems and speech impediments. If this chakra is inactive and unbalanced there may be diseases related to thyroid gland and throat and find himself in pain and sadness without any obvious reason. Everything in the world appears to him wrong. Throat related ailments such as goiter, sore throat, loss of voice, asthma, sterility etc. Asthma also happens because of emotional problems. If the person is unable to express himself/herself freely, it causes a constriction of the windpipe, which could result in asthma.

Shoulder pains can be caused by emotional troubles which affect the Throat chakra as well as the solar plexus chakra or Manipura chakra.

Too much anxiety can cause the Throat chakra to become over-activated. Hyperthyroidism can cause the Vishuddhi chakra to become reddish and over-activated.

• 6th Day Goddess Durga Katyayani: By worshipping Goddess Katyayani, the worshipper is bestowed with awakening of AGYA CHAKRA. The Agya chakra is located between the eyebrows where energy manifests as anger and alertness.  For this reason it is also known as the “third eye”. The Agya Chakra is the centre of clarity and wisdom. It forms the boundary between human and Divine consciousness. It is the meeting point of the three principle Nadis, Ida (Moon Nadi), Pingala (Sun Nadi) and Sushumna (Central Nadi).  The Ajna Chakra controls and energizes the pituitary gland, the endocrine glands and the brain to a certain extent. This chakra provides soundness to the mental state of a person. When a person’s Ajna Chakra is strong, he will smile even when he is under tremendous pressure. A strong Ajna Chakra ensures active intelligence- intelligence along with the ability to take action. The Ajna Chakra is the Master Chakra that controls all the other chakras. One is able to accomplish his tasks with determination and zeal. He is also able to exercise a strict control over his sensory organs. Here, Devi is six-faced, representing the five senses (sight, hearing, smell, touch, taste) and the mind.

The Ajna Chakra activation benefits include healthy eyes and the nose.The Ajna Chakra influences the basic chakra or Mooladhara Chakra and is thus also responsible for the health of your skin

Energizing the Ajna Chakra causes the other chakras to light up rapidly. Thus, the whole body is energized.

• 7th Day Goddess Durga Kaalratri: While worshipping this Goddess, one should start experiencing that energy from the sun is coming and energising the whole body. The Sahasrāra Chakra is located on the crown of the head beneath the Fontanelle. The crown chakra is the seventh chakra. Located at the top of the head, it gives us access to higher states of consciousness as we open to what is beyond our personal preoccupations and visions. The function of the Crown chakra is driven by consciousness and gets us in touch with the universal.By this all the ill effects caused due to diseases get permanently over. Shakti is located in the Mūlādhāra Chakra and Shiva in the Sahasrāra Chakra. The trench that separates Shiva and Shakti (otherwise known as Purusha and Prakriti – consciousness and nature) are emotions full of suffering, such as loneliness, sadness, bitterness, fear, doubt, etc., that accompany us through life.

Icchā Shakti (willpower) is the force that finally provides the impulse for the removal of the rocks of Karmas and cumbersome qualities once and for all.

MEDHĀ SHAKTI is one of the most influential and important forces in the body; mental power, intelligence and memory depend upon it. Medhā Shakti is quickly used up by excitement, stress, hustle and bustle, sexual intercourse, strong emotions, empty chatter, crying, shouting, brooding and worrying. Anger, hate, jealousy, unresolved conflict, feelings of revenge and resentment that we carry with us from the past weaken and destroy it.

We strengthen our Medhā Shakti through relaxation of body and mind, quietening our thoughts, trusting in God, inner peace, joy and contentment. All inverted postures of yoga such as Shirshāsana (headstand), Sarvāngāsana (shoulderstand) Viparītkaranī Mudrā (Energy Regeneration Pose), Yoga Mudrā (Forward Bend sitting on heels) and Shashankāsana (Hare) are particularly beneficial. Agnisāra Kriyā , Prānāyāma, concentration and meditation practices also strengthen Medhā Shakti. This mental and spiritual power is also supported through prayer. A food recommended to strengthen the Medhā Shkti is Almond milk. It is also beneficial for headache and tiredness, and is an excellent drink for promoting concentration and memory performance. Chew the almonds, which have been peeled and soaked overnight in water.

• 8th Day Goddess Durga Gauri: On 8th day (Astami) Navratri, the devotees worship Mother Gauri by experiencing that their mind is being filled with coolness emanating from the moon and slowly their mind is becoming quiet and calm.

• 9th Day Goddess Durga ‘Siddhidatri’: When the whole body has already been made free of toxicity and energised and also mind is calm and quiet, one is to pray the Goddess Siddhidatri to bestow with success in all walks of life.

These chakras manage our body’s energy. Tuning of the chakras continually is vital for regular upkeep of physical, mental and emotional health. Balancing chakras is central to our wellbeing. Durga embodies Shakti, the dynamic aspect of ultimate reality and its role in creation, protection and transformation. Durga also embodies empowerment of women and reverence for them. Durga gives the eternal message of hope and assurance for divine intervention in times of trouble.

गीता पंचम अध्याय श्लोक (12-20 ) Gita-Chapter 5 Verses (12-20)

गीता-गीत GITA-GEET

गीता पंचम अध्याय श्लोक (12-20 ) Gita-Chapter 5 Verses (12–20)

निष्काम-कर्मयोग

युक्तः कर्मफलं त्यक्त्वा शान्तिमाप्नोति नैष्ठिकीम्‌ ।

अयुक्तः कामकारेण फले सक्तो निबध्यते ॥5-12॥

कर्मयोग युक्त जन कर्मफल को त्याग कर|

शांति प्राप्त करते रह स्वनिष्ठा की राह पर||

कामना के कारण से  फल में आसक्त जन|

      कर्म-बंधन में हैं बँधते कर्मफल को चाह कर॥5-12॥

A Karm-yogi, renouncing the fruits of his actions, attains lasting peace; but the unsteady man who is attached to fruits of actions, being impelled by desire, is bound.

सर्वकर्माणि मनसा संन्यस्यास्ते सुखं वशी ।

नवद्वारे पुरे देही नैव कुर्वन्न कारयन्‌ ॥5-13॥

त्याग करें मन से सब कर्मों को कर के भी|

आत्म-नियंत्रण में रह कर   सुखी रहें सभी||

नौ द्वार युक्त देह-नगर निवासी आत्मा ने|

      न ही करना है, और न ही करवाना है कभी॥5-13॥

When the embodied living-being controls his nature and mentally renounces all actions, he resides happily in the city of nine gates [the material body]. He is neither working nor causing work to be done.

न कर्तृत्वं न कर्माणि लोकस्य सृजति प्रभुः ।

न कर्मफलसंयोगं स्वभावस्तु प्रवर्तते ॥5-14॥

ईश्वर कभी नहीं रचता, क्या तुमको करना

जो भी करते, वह भी नहीं ईश्वर की रचना

जो भी चाहिए करना, और जो तुम करते हो

      उसका स्वभाविक-संयोग, कर्म-फल का बनना॥5-14॥,

The Lord of the world does not create activities, nor does he induce people to act. He also does not create the fruits of action. The fruit of action is only the inherent tendencies that function.    

नादत्ते कस्यचित्पापं न चैव सुकृतं विभुः ।

अज्ञानेनावृतं ज्ञानं तेन मुह्यन्ति जन्तवः॥5-15॥

ईश्वर सर्वव्याप्त न किसी के भी पाप हरते

न किसी के भी शुभ-कार्यों को ग्रहण करते

अज्ञान ने ढक लिया सब तरफ से ज्ञान को,

       समस्त प्राणी उसके द्वारा ही मोहित रहते ॥5-15॥

The Lord does not take away the evil-doing nor he accepts the well-doing of any. True knowledge is enveloped by unwisdom; with that all are deluded.

ज्ञानेन तु तदज्ञानं येषां नाशितमात्मनः ।

तेषामादित्यवज्ज्ञानं प्रकाशयति तत्परम्‌ ॥5-16॥

किन्तु ज्ञान-के-द्वारा हो जिनका अज्ञान-नाश|

उन सभी आत्माओं का स्वयमेव होता विकास||

उस परम सत्य को सुस्पष्ट प्रकट करके ज्ञान|

      अंधकार पर आदित्य की तरह, फैलाता प्रकाश॥5-16॥

For those in whom this ignorance is destroyed by the knowledge of the self, that knowledge, in their case, is supreme and shines like the sun and throw light on true knowledge.

तद्‍बुद्धयस्तदात्मानस्तन्निष्ठास्तत्परायणाः ।

गच्छन्त्यपुनरावृत्तिं ज्ञाननिर्धूतकल्मषाः ॥5-17॥

ऐसी सभी बुद्धि, आत्माएं, हों ज्ञान से विकसित|

होतीं सब निष्ठाएँ, सभी लक्ष्य, ज्ञान में स्थित||

ज्ञान से विशुद्ध हो चुके हैं इनके सब पाप कर्म|

 लौटकर न आते पुनः चक्र में, जब होते निर्गमित ||5-17||

Whose intellect is absorbed in That, whose self has become one with That, who is totally devoted to Him, Who totally rely on Him, his sins dispelled by His knowledge, do not get rebirth again (get over from the cycle of birth and death).

विद्याविनयसम्पन्ने ब्राह्मणे गवि हस्तिनि ।

शुनि चैव श्वपाके च पण्डिताः समदर्शिनः ॥5-18॥

चाहे विद्या-विनय-सम्पन्न हो ब्राम्हण-संतान।

गाय हो या हाथी हो या फिर हो एक श्वान ॥

  ईश्वर का अंश तो सब में है विद्यमान सतत ।

     ज्ञानियों की दृष्टि में अतः हैं वे सभी समान॥5-18॥

The sages look with an equal eye on one endowed with learning and humility, a Brahmana, a cow, an elephant, a dog and a dog-eater.

इहैव तैर्जितः सर्गो येषां साम्ये स्थितं मनः ।

निर्दोषं हि समं ब्रह्म तस्माद् ब्रह्मणि ते स्थिताः॥5-19॥

मन समान भाव में रख, सबको जो करते प्यार |

उन सबने ही सम्पूर्ण रूप से जीत लिया संसार ||

सबमें निर्दोष ब्रम्ह को समान रूप में देखरहे वे |

 इसलिए ब्रम्ह में स्थित हो करते जग के ब्यवहार॥5-19॥

Those whose minds are established in sameness and equanimity have already conquered the world. They see the almighty as same and flawless everywhere, and thus they are already situated in Brahman.

न प्रहृष्येत्प्रियं प्राप्य नोद्विजेत्प्राप्य चाप्रियम्‌ ।

स्थिरबुद्धिरसम्मूढो ब्रह्मविद् ब्रह्मणि स्थितः ॥5-20॥

न हो जो अपने प्रिय को पाकर अतिहर्षित।

न ही हो जो अप्रिय को पाकर भी दुखित॥

 स्थिर बुद्धि कभी भी जो न हो सम्मोहित।

      ब्रह्म-ज्ञानयुत रहे सदा ही ब्रह्म में स्थित॥5-20॥

Who neither rejoices at gaining what is pleasant, nor grieves on obtaining what is unpleasant, that person with steady and undeluded mind is situated in Brahman (i.e. rests in ultimate state of peace)

Learnings

1. Liability of fruit of action: Fruit of action is a liability. Liability always give stress. So, you cannot be liberated. One, who is greedy for the fruits of his labour, becomes entangled.
2. Living stress free through Karma-yoga: The harmonised man, having abandoned the fruit of action, attains to the eternal Peace; the non-harmonised, impelled by desire, attached to fruit, are bound. The steadily devoted soul attains unadulterated peace because he offers the result of all activities to Almighty and acts his best without worrying.
3. Natural consequences: Fruits of action is only the natural consequences by combining what you should do and what have you done. Whether good or bad, you have to face the consequences. It is you who is responsible for your present condition.

गीता पंचम अध्याय श्लोक (1-10 ) Gita-Chapter 5 Verses (1-10)

कृष्णं वंदे जगद्गुरुम्

गीता-गीत GITA-GEET

गीता पंचम अध्याय श्लोक (1-10 ) Gita-Chapter 5 Verses (1–10)

कर्म-सन्यास व कर्मयोग

अर्जुन उवाच

सन्न्यासं कर्मणां कृष्ण पुनर्योगं च शंससि ।

यच्छ्रेय एतयोरेकं तन्मे ब्रूहि सुनिश्चितम्‌ ॥5-1॥

कर्मों के संन्यास का देते हो सन्देश|

करें प्रशंसा सदा दे कर्मयोग उपदेश||

जो हो कल्याण प्रद, इन दोनों में एक|

              उसको सुनिश्चित करो, मुझको दो निर्देश||5-1||

O Kṛiṣṇa, first of all You ask me to renounce work, and then again You recommend Karma-yoga. Now will You kindly tell me definitely which of the two is more beneficial for me.

श्रीभगवानुवाच

सन्न्यासः कर्मयोगश्च निःश्रेयसकरावुभौ ।

    तयोस्तु कर्मसन्न्यासात्कर्मयोगो विशिष्यते ॥5-2॥

कर्मयोग और सन्यास, हैं दोनों श्रेयस्कर|

इन दोनों में कर्मयोग का है, विशेष स्तर||

कर्मयोग की साधना, होती है सहज सरल|

     सर्वदा त्यागना कर्म का,    होता है दुष्कर||5-2||

Renouncing from work, and Karma-yoga both give excellent results for welfare of an individual, but out of these two paths, Krmayoga is easier to follow; because one cannot survive without doing work. So, it is difficult to renounce action altogether.

ज्ञेयः स नित्यसन्न्यासी यो न द्वेष्टि न काङ्‍क्षति ।

निर्द्वन्द्वो हि महाबाहो सुखं बन्धात्प्रमुच्यते ॥5-3॥

सन्यासी समझो उसे जो नहिं करता द्वेष|

जिसके मन में है नहीं कुछ आकान्क्षा शेष||

द्वंद्वों से इस जगत में सदा रहे वह मुक्त|

         भौतिक बंधन-मुक्त हो सुख पा सके विशेष॥5-3॥

One who neither hates nor desires the fruits of his activities is known to be always renounced. Such a person, liberated from all dualities, easily overcomes material bondage and is completely liberated, O mighty-armed Arjuna.

साङ्‍ख्ययोगौ पृथग्बालाः प्रवदन्ति न पण्डिताः ।

एकमप्यास्थितः सम्यगुभयोर्विन्दते फलम्‌ ॥5-4॥

अलग-अलग ही फल देते सांख्ययोग कर्मयोग|

  यह कहें अबोध बालक ही, न कहें पंडित लोग ||

दोनों में से किसी एक मार्ग के अनुसरण से |

         कर सकते हैं दोनों के परिणामों का उपभोग॥5-4॥

Only ignorant like children, not sages, speak of the Sânkhya or analytical study of the material world (yoga of knowledge) and the Karma-Yoga as different; he who is duly following one, obtains the fruits of both. It means, those who are actually learned say that he who applies himself well to one of these paths achieves the results of both. (5-4)

यत्साङ्‍ख्यैः प्राप्यते स्थानं तद्यौगैरपि गम्यते ।

       एकं साङ्‍ख्यं च योगं च यः पश्यति स पश्यति ॥5-5॥

जो पद, सांख्य-योग पर चलकर सन्यासी पाते |

कर्मयोग के पथ पर चल, वह योगी भी पाजाते||

सांख्ययोग व कर्मयोग दोनों की है राह एक ही|

         देख सकें जो ऐसा ही, वे यह समझ सही पाते॥5-5॥

 That place which is gained by the Sânkhyas by doing analytical analysis, is reached by the Karmayogi also. One who knows that the position reached by means of renunciation can also be attained by self-less action, and who therefore sees that the path of works and the path of renunciation are one, sees things as they are.

सन्न्यासस्तु महाबाहो दुःखमाप्तुमयोगतः ।

योगयुक्तो मुनिर्ब्रह्म नचिरेणाधिगच्छति ॥5-6॥

जो न कर्मयोगी, न कर्तापन के ही त्यागी|

कठिन है संन्यास पाना, जो रहते अनुरागी||

महाबाहो! योग-युक्त होकर ही मुनि सहज में|

           ब्रम्हानंद पाते शीघ्र, हो कर्मयोग के सहभागी॥5-6॥

But without yoga, O mighty-armed, renunciation is hard to attain to. The yoga-harmonised persons swiftly go to the Eternal. Unless one is engaged in the self-less actions, mere renunciation of activities cannot make one happy. The sages, purified by yoga, achieve the Supreme without delay.

Yoga-attitude or spiritual wisdom will completely eliminate all the ‘dual’ consequences of whatever one does. Abandonment is not of the actions themselves, but only of the dual effects they produce on our mind (5-6)

योगयुक्तो विशुद्धात्मा विजितात्मा जितेन्द्रियः ।

सर्वभूतात्मभूतात्मा कुर्वन्नपि न लिप्यते ॥5-7॥

योग-युक्त हो, विशुद्ध अंतःकरण जिनका|

इन्द्रियाँ जीत लीं मन पर सदा वश उनका||

सभी प्राणी-मात्र  में अपनी ही आत्मा देखते|

           कर्म करते हुए भी, लिप्त नहीं मन इनका॥5-7॥

He who is harmonised by yoga, the self-purified, Self-ruled, the senses subdued, whose Self is the Self of all beings, although acting he is not affected by its bonding. One who controls his mind, though always working, such a man is never entangled. (5-7)

नैव किंचित्करोमीति युक्तो मन्येत तत्ववित्‌ ।

पश्यञ्श्रृण्वन्स्पृशञ्जिघ्रन्नश्नन्गच्छन्स्वपंश्वसन्‌ ॥5-8॥

देखते, सुनते, छूते, सूंघते, चलते, सोते|

श्वांस लेते हुए भी, कुछ न करते होते||

तत्वज्ञानी मानते, वे सर्वदा निर्लिप्त हैं|

       जो योगयुक्त, मन क्रियाओं में नहीं खोते॥5-8॥

A Yogi-person is always in the divine consciousness. Although, such person is engaged in seeing, hearing, touching, smelling, eating, moving about, sleeping and breathing, but always knows within himself that he actually does nothing at all. (5-8)

प्रलपन्विसृजन्गृह्णन्नुन्मिषन्निमिषन्नपि ॥

      इन्द्रियाणीन्द्रियार्थेषु वर्तन्त इति धारयन्‌ ॥5-9॥

बोलते हुए, देते, ग्रहण करते हुए भी |

पलकें खोलते, और झपकाते हुए भी ||

इन्द्रियाँ ही, इन्द्रिय-विषयों में वर्तरहीं |

         इस धारणा से, वे न कुछ करते कभी॥5-9॥

Because while speaking, evacuating, receiving, or opening or closing his eyes, he always knows that only the material senses are engaged with their objects and that he is aloof from them and not doing anything.

ब्रह्मण्याधाय कर्माणि सङ्‍गं त्यक्त्वा करोति यः ।

लिप्यते न स पापेन पद्मपत्रमिवाम्भसा ॥5-10॥

ब्रम्ह में कर्मों को, सदा समर्पित रखते |

त्यागकर आसक्ति जो सदा, कर्म करते||

कमलपत्र जैसे, जल में रह न गीला हो|

          पाप कर्मों से हो लिप्त, नहीं वह रहते॥5-10॥

One who performs his duty without attachment, surrendering the results unto

the Supreme Lord, is unaffected by sinful action, as the lotus leaf is untouched by

water. (5-10)

कायेन मनसा बुद्धया केवलैरिन्द्रियैरपि ।

          योगिनः कर्म कुर्वन्ति संग त्यक्त्वात्मशुद्धये॥5-11॥

बुद्धि मन शरीर से केवल इन्द्रिय द्वारा |

कर्म पूर्ण करते सब, न कभी करें किनारा ||

योगी कभी आसक्त नहीं रहते कर्मो में |

          आत्मशुद्धि के लिए कार्य करते वे सारा ||5-11||

Yogis, having abandoned attachment, perform action only by the body, by the mind, by the reason, and even by the senses, for the purification of the self. The yogis, abandoning attachment, act with body, mind, intelligence and even with the senses, only for the purpose of purification of the self. They will not have burden on their soul as the work assigned to them has been performed putting their best.

Learning

1. Krishna advocates for selfless dedicated activities without any desire for the fruits of actions, if one wants to lead a peaceful life.
2. The life is peaceful only if it is properly aligned with the laws of the universe.
3. Our efforts should be to remain alert all the time. Let our mind be unattached with the activities performed by our sense organs.
4. Always consider that these are internal happenings, and act judiciously to remain happy.