srimad bhagavata mahatmyam (chapters 1 to 3)

7/22/2019 Srimad Bhagavata Mahatmyam (Chapters 1 to 3)

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SRIMAD BHAGAVATA MAHATMYAM(STORIES ON GLORIES OF THE SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM)

Ourgitapage

This document is a compilation of all my Facebook posts on Srimad

Bhagavatam. Following the recently concluded Srimad Bhagavata Katha

Saptah discourses (Oct 31 Nov 6, 2013) by Sri Ramanujamji, disciple of

His Holiness Sri Sri Muralidhara Swami, and with the blessings of all of

our poorvaacaryas and sadgurus, and the Immense Compassion and

Grace of Sri Krishna, I made the sankalpam (vow) to read one chapter of

Srimad Bhagavatam each day. The following represents my humble

effort to present the story in each chapter, on a daily basis, as I continue

this parayanam, which began on November 15, 2013.

Sri Ramanujamji delivering the Bhagavata Katha discourses at Sri Balaji Temple

November 15

SAMVATSARA (VAARSHIKA) BHAGAVATA PARAYANAM

Immediately following the completion of the Bhagavata parayanam (from Oct 30to Nov 13, 2013), I felt like I must do what I was told by Sri Ramanujamji when I

met him for the first time (and had the blessings of a private audience) during his
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Bhagavata Katha discourses in 2012 - do the daily parayanam, one chapter

(adhyaayam) a day. With the divine blessings of the Sadgurus and Krishna'simmense grace and compassion, I initiated this parayanam today (Nov 15, 2013).

The sankalpam was made as Lord Venkateswara was getting ready for HisThirukalyana Utsavam tomorrow. Our guest priest, Varadaraja Bhattar from

Pittsburgh SV Temple blessed the grantham and recited the sankalpam mantras forme.

I finished reading chapter one of the Srimad Bhagavata Mahatmyam today. The

glories of Srimad Bhagavatam are described in the Mahatmyam. The story as told

in chapter one is about the celestial rishi Narada's meeting with Bhakti.

Once, Narada came to visit Bhuloka (the earth) and found that dharma had all but

disappeared. He traveled all over, to many holy places, and found adharma on therise. Then he came to the banks of the river Yamuna, where Krishna hadperformed His divine lilas. There he met a young woman, who was shedding tears

profusely and overcome by sorrow. Beside her were two very old looking men,

who seemed to be practically dead. Narada was intrigued by this sight. The lady insorrow was also surrounded by other women, who seemed to be her attendants.

When Narada spoke to her she said, "I am Bhakti and these here are my two sons,Jnana and Vairaagya. They have become old and practically dead but I am still

young. How is this possible, O great sage? Can you tell me the reason? Can you

help me?"

Narada immediately vowed to restore Bhakti to her former glory. He startedchanting the Vedas, the Bhagavad Gita and the Vishnu Sahasranamam. But all to

no avail. Then he heard a voice from the sky which said, "Jnana and Vairaagya will

be revived if you perform one pious act." However, the voice did not say what

pious act. Narada was perplexed and went from one holy place to anotherenquiring from all the sages what "one pious act" he needs to perform.

Then he met the four Kumaras, the mind-born sons of Brahma, who are known asthe Sanatkumaras. They are forever young, like five year olds, and travel all over

like little boys, running around naked. However, they were self-realized souls who

actually refused to enter into family life when Brahma ordered them to do so.Instead they opted the life of sanyasis.

The story continues in chapter two. The Sanatkumaras obviously provide Narada


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with the solution and tell him about the "one pious act" that he must perform.

Hare Raama Hare Raama Raama Raama Hare Hare l

Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare ll

Sadguru Maharaj ki Jai. Hari Bol.

Gopikaa jeevana smarNam Govinda Govinda.Like Share

Top CommentsRadha AkkoorandRengga Satyalike this.

Radha AkkoorNow we also get to read with you. Baaghavatha sambhandham

UnlikeReply1November 16 at 1:26pmviamobile

OurgitapageYes, that will be the perfect sambandham! Please do and post here as well.

LikeReplyNovember 16 at 3:13pmviamobile

OurgitapagePlease see link here for an English translation of the Bhagavata Mahatmyam

story as told in chapter one.http://nitaaiveda.com/...

http://nitaaiveda.com/All_Scriptures_By_Acharyas/Rasikananda_Deva/Shrimad_B

hagavata_Mahatmyam/Chapte

nitaaiveda.com

We offer our humble obeisances unto Lord Shri Krishna, whose transcendental

form...See More

LikeReplyRemove PreviewNovember 16 at 3:36am
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OurgitapageI will edit and revise this later to add details of the chapter one story.

Tomorrow's Kalyana Utsavam celeb start at 6:00 am at the Sri Balaji temple.

LikeReplyNovember 15 at 10:53pmEdited

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Ourgitapageshared astatus.

November 16

RAVAGES OF KALIYUGA: MAHATMYAM STORY, CHAPTER ONE

Once, when the sage Narada visited Bhuloka (the earth), he witnessed the

ravages of Kaliyuga. This is described in verses 28 to 36 of chapter one. The

following is from verses 32 and 33.

Those who are called saintly are actually pretenders. Though they appear

renounced, they accumulate wealth, women, and paraphernalia for sense

pleasure. Women rule the family and the brother-in-law is the consultant.

People sell their daughters out of greed, and husbands and wives always

quarrel.

Selling their own daughters - kanya vikriyaNah - is one of the evil effects of

Kaliyuga, which lasts for 432,000 years. We are now only a little more than

5100 years into Kaliyuga.

Husbands and wives constantly quarrel - dampateenaam ca kalakanam -

another evil of Kaliyuga.
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Narada also says (when he met the four Sanatkumaras) that he found that

holy places had been destroyed and desecrated by Yavanas - aashramaah

yavanaih ruddhaah teerthaani saritas tathaa (verse 34) - those who are

opposed to Vedic religions. They are in control of such places.

Of course, one should not think that only non-Hindus are opposed to Vedic

religion, or sanatana dharma. Even among so-called Hindus, there are now

many who oppose Vedic religion and its values and as we see in India and

recent attempts by politicians (mostly Hindus) to outlaw Vedic teachings as

mere superstitions (see recent post by our FB friend Priya Parthasarthy).

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OurgitapageYesterday(Nov 17, 2013)

CHAPTER 2 OF BHAGAVATA MAHATMYAM

Yesterday, Nov 16, 2013, we witnessed the Divine wedding of Lord

Venkateswara, performed jointly by Sri Balaji Temple and Bharatiya Temple,

at the latter temple. Naturally, we were all busy, all day, starting with

Suprabhatam at 6 am, the transport of the Utsavamurtis back and forth, and

the wedding itself. I did NOT find time to reading the one chapter a day of

Srimad Bhagavatam that I had promised myself. After the vigrahams were

back at the temple (see my Home Sweet Home photos on my timeline), I

suddenly decided to read the Mahatmyam story.

My plan was to read it to myself, while others were waiting to conclude the

day's ceremonies. However, slowly, I started reading a bit louder and also

enjoying myself during the reading. And, amazingly, everyone was quiet and

listening.
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Chapter 2 describes in more detail the meeting of Narada and the four

Sanatkumaras, who provide Narada with the solution for the dilemma that the

former was facing - about the "one pious act" that he should perform in order

to revive the nearly lifeless sons (Jnana and Vairagya) of Bhakti. In this

chapter, we are told how Bhakti will be established in this Kaliyuga. In chapter

1 of the Mahatmyam story, the ravages of Kaliyuga were described and also

the grieving of Bhakti, who remained young and lovely while two sons turned

old and virtually lifeless. Bhakti wanted Narada to help her and Narada

promises that he would certainly do so and re-establish the glory of Bhakti all

over the worlds.

I will post later about the story so far. I could not help feeling that it was Lord

Venkateswara's wish that all the volunteers (who worked hard for severaldays to make the Kalyana Utsavam a grand success) to hear this reading of

chapter 2 of the glory of Srimad Mahatmyam. How will Bhakti be revived and

established and regain her old glory in this Kaliyuga?

Now, after this shravaNam (listening to a reading, chanting, or a discourse), let

us ALL now take the next step. The Lord has showed us His companion. The

path has been laid for us. Now, we just have to follow that path - and read the

Srimad Bhagavatam - one chapter daily each day - until the next GRANDKalyana Utsavam in 2014.

More on the story itself in later. Govinda Govinda.



Hari Bol!

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Ourgitapage 10 hours ago(as of 10:29 PM on Nov 18, 2013)

SRIMAD BHAGAVATA MAHATMYAM: STORY AS TOLD IN

CHAPTERS 1 TO 3

Once, Soota Mahrishi, visited the sages of NaimshiraNya when the latter were

performing a huge satram (sacrifice). Soota was offered an exalted seat and

Shaunaka, their leader of the sages, addressed Soota and asked how one could

attain the lotus feet of Krishna in this period of Kaliyuga (Krishna praaptikaram

shashvat saadhana vada adhunaa, chapter 1, verse 7).

Soota Mahrishi replied promptly, "The sage Shuka has instructed the science of

Srimad Bhagavatam (Srimad Bhagavatam shaastram kalau KeereNa bhashitam,

chapter 1, verse 11) in this Kaliyuga. There is nothing else that can purify one

besides this."

He continued, "When Shukaacarya was ready start his discourse, for Parikshit, the

devas appeared before him and offered the celestial amrutam (ambrosia, which

bestows immortality) in exchange for the instructions of Srimad Bhagavatam. The

sage looked at them and laughed saying, 'How can one compare a precious

gemstone to a piece of glass?' Saying this, he just mocked and dismissed them as

being unworthy recipients of the Srimad Bhagavatam."

And, he continued, "When Brahma heard that Parikshit attained moksha, he was

amazed and set a balance where he put the Bhagavatam on one scale and all the

other holy scriptures like the Vedas, Upanishads and Puranas on the other scale.

The balance tipped to the side of the Bhagavatam. Thus, Brahma understood that

the Srimad Bhagavatam is indeed the very embodiment of Bhagavan and His very

swaroopam. Reading and listening to the Srimad Bhagavatam will indeed bestow

the reward of VaikuNTha itself, especially if it is heard devoutly during a

discourse over the period of one week."
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And he continued, "The four Sanatkumaras instructed Narada about this saptaha

(one week, or seven days) process, although he (Narada) had previously heard the

Bhagavatam from Brahma himself."

Then Shaunaka asked, "Tell us about how Narada got these instructions from thefour Sanatkumaras. Where did they meet? How did this happen? Why?"

Sootha Mahrishi replied, "Once upon a time, the four Sanatkumaras decided to

visit the holy place named Vishala, in order to associate with holy people

(satsangaartham). There they met the sage Narada, who seemed to be very worried.

They asked, 'Where are you thus scurrying around in such a big hurry? Where are

you coming from? Where are going? You look like something who has just lost all

of his wealth although you are a self realized soul. Being thus asked Narada toldthem the reason.'

Narada said, "I came to visit Prithvi (the earth) thinking of this as the most exalted

of all places. I went to many holy places like Pushkara, Prayaga, Kashi,

Harikshetra (Haridwar), Kurukshetra, Sreerangam, Rameswaram

(Sethubandhanam) and many hol rivers like Godavari but nowhere was I able to

find dharma which pleases the mind. The ravages of Kali have destroyed dharma

everywhere. There is observance of truth (satyam naasti), penances (tapah naasti),

bodily and mental purity (shaucam), compassion (dayaa), charities (daanam).

Everyone is only interested in filling their bellies, speak harshly, women hold the

authority in households, people are selling their own daughters due to greed,

husband and wives are constantly quarreling, holy places are controlled by those

opposed to Vedic religion, even the Brahmins have turned into lustful beings and

have their hair cut off (modern hair style, instead of letting hair grow long). Then I

came to the banks of the Yamuna where Bhagavan performed His many lilas.

There I witnessed an amazing scene. I saw a young lady, surrounded by many

other women, who must be her attendants. She was crying profusely and lying on

the ground beside her were two, very old, practically lifeless, men. I asked her who

she was and why she was lamenting."

The young lady said, "My name is Bhakti and these two here are my sons, Jnana

and Vairaagya. See, they are lying down here, have grown so old and practically


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dead while I am still so young. How can a mother remain young while her children

get old and become lifeless? O sage, please tell me the reason for this. Please help

me and revive my sons."

Narada said, "My dear child (Baale), this is effect of Kali. You are young since youare in Vrindavana where Bhakti is forever present. Your sons are still breathing for

the same reason."

Bhakti said, "Why did the King Parikshit allow Kali to remain? How can

Bhagavan, who is filled with compassion, tolerate and witness such adharma?"

Narada said, "I will tell you everything, my dear child. Since Kali fell at the feet of

King Parikshit and sought his refuge, the king could not kill Kali off. In thisKaliyuga, one can obtain all the benefits of the previous yugas simply by

performing Sankeertanams - there is no need for yogas or penances - even they

will not yield the benefits of sankeetranam. yat phalam naasti tapasaa na yogena na

samaadhinaa l tat phalam labhate samyak kalau Keshava keertanaat ll verse 68.

This is the reason King Parikshit, who is great devotee (Vishnuraatah) allowed

Kali, in order bring some sukham for the people. "

Narada continued, "Now people have become disbelievers. Kama (lust), krodha

(anger), lobha (greed), moha (delusion), trushya (thrist, or avarice), vyakula

(dejection) has overcome the mind and their consciousness. Even the wise are

content to enjoy sexual pleasures and producing progeny. This is the dharma of

Kaliyuga. Who can blame anyone? verse 77. "

Hearing this, Bhakti was wonder struck. Then she addressed the sage Narada

again. "O great sage, it is the association of sadhus (great souls) that uplifts all. I

bow to you. Dhruva attained his exalted position because he came in contact with

you. It is such association that helps one overcome Maya."

Thus, ends the story in chapter 1.

We will continue the story in the next posts. However, even just the reading of the

story here in chapter one, and some of the ravages of Kali that I have taken the


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time translate fully, without mincing words or suppressing them (however,

politically INcorrect it might sound to us today), should give us reason to pause

and contemplate. As we see here and also again in Canto 12, the pursuit of SEX

and MONEY seem to be the only dominant forces of Kaliyuga that deludes even

the wisest.

Kaliyuga lasts for 432,000 and according to the Hindu panchangam in use, only

about 5100 years have elapsed. Being totally self absorbed in pursuit of bodily

pleasures is now the yuga dharma as Narada points out to Bhakti.

In chapter two, Narada vows to restore Bhakti to her former glory. He says, "If I do

not, I should not be called Haridasa."

What does Narada do?

That is told in chapter 2 and in my earlier post I had mentioned that I read this

chapter, with many devotess listening attentively, when Lord Venkateswara

returned to the Sri Balaji Temple, with His consorts, after the Divine

Thirukalyanam that was performed on Nov 16, 2013 (first day of Karthigai month

in solar calendar, Bharani nakshatram when Bharani deepam celebrations in

Tiruvannamalai, and full moon day, thus triply auspicious).

Like Share

Janaki MahadevanandRadha Akkoorlike this.

Radha AkkoorThanks

LikeReply9 hours agoviamobile

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Ourgitapage 3 hours ago(as of 10:30 PM on Nov 18, 2013)

A HOME THAT DESTROYS ALL THE SINS OF ITS OCCUPANTS

Vasataam paapa naashanam - the word "vaasam" means a home, a place

where people live and "vasataam" refers to those who are living in a home. All

the sins of those who live in the home are destroyed (paapa naashanam).

Where is such a home? Is there such a home?

The above is the last half of the second line of the following sloka

Kathaa Bhaagavatasyaapi nityam bhavati yadgruhe l

Tadgruham teertharoopam hi vastaam paapa naashanam ll3.29ll

Bhaagavatsya kathaa api yat gruhe nityam bhavati tad gruham teertha roopam

hi (bhavati)

"hi" means yes, indeed and is used to add emphasis. That house (tad gruham)

is indeed the very form of a holy place (teertha roopam). Which home? One

where Bhaagavata Katha exists (bhavati), or is heard, daily (nityam).

It is such a home that becomes a home that destroys the sins of everyone who

lives there!

The above sloka appears in chapter 3 of Srimad Bhagavata Mahatmyam and istold by the Sanatkumaras after they instruct Narada about how Bhakti can be

restored to her former glory, in Kaliyuga, and her greatly aged and virtually

lifeless sons (named Jnana and Vairaagya) can be revived.

There is no need for Ganga, no need for Gaya, no need for Kashi and such holy
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places (Pushkara) and holy rivers (or Prayaaga, confluence of Ganga, Yamuna

and Saraswati). Even such holiest of places do not compare to the shaastra of

Shuka, i.e., Bhaagavata Katha (verse 32).

So read with your own mouth just one half of a sloka (shlokaardham), or one

quarter of a sloka (sholoka paadam) that is from the Srimad Bhaagavatam if

you desire to attain the Highest Abode (yadeecchasi paraam gatim), verse 33.

The sins of a koti janmas (one crore, or ten million, births) are destroyed, let

there be no doubt, by the daily reading of the Srimad Bhaagavatam (verse 37).

Saying (reading aloud) the Bhaagavatam daily, remembering Lord Hari

constantly, nourishing the Tulasi plant, protecting and caring for the cows, areall equal. Govinda will bestow VaikuNTham gladly for whoever is listening to

Bhaagavatam at the very last moments of life (verse 40).

Well, now here's a thought. Young people in a home are too busy with their

daily lives. The youngest have to go to school, the parents (nowadays both)

have to go to work, but elderly grandparents, who are retired and do not have

to go to work to earn a living and take care of the family's needs, have all the

time in the world to do exactly what is being described in the above sloka.Such elderly parents can turn every home into a holy place. Such homes were

the norm in our culture even as little as a 100 ot 150 years ago. Now, we are

reduced to the so-called "nuclear" family with just parents and their young

children.

The Srimad Bhaagavatam is also telling us about the glories of a home where

three or more generations are cared for and live together harmoniously and

also what the elderly grandparents and great grandparents must indeedspend their time doing.




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Govinda Govinda!! Hari Bol!

Sadguru Maharaj ki Jai!

Govinda Govinda !! Hari Bol ! Sadguru Maharaji ki Jai !

Ourgitapage 25 like this

about an hour ago(as of 2:55 am on Nov 19, 2013)

SRIMAD BHAGAVATA MAHATMYAM (CONTD): STORY AS TOLD IN

CHAPTERS 1 TO 3

This is Part II of the story.

Once, during his travels through the three worlds, the celestial sage Narada

came to Prithvi (the Earth) and visited many holy places only to find thatdharma (religion and virtuosity) had disappeared. Then, when he came to

Vrindavana, on the banks of the holy river Yamuna, where Bhagavan had

performed his various lilas, he saw a young lady, surrounded by many other

women (who were her attendants), who was shedding tears profusely and

lamenting. Lying besides her were two very old men, virtually lifeless. Narada

speaks to this lady and enquires about the reason for his sorrow. The young

lady says that she is Bhakti and that the two old men lying beside her are her

two sons, Jnana and Vairaagya. While she is young and healthy her sons havegrown old, have lost all their strength, and are virtually dead. How can this be?

What is the reason for all this, she asks Narada. This part of the story is told in

chapter 1 and was narrated briefly in my earlier post. We now continue with

the story as told in chapter 2.

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Narada said, "O my dear child (baale), you are lamenting needlessly. Just

remember the lotus feet of Sri Krishna and all of your sorrows will disappear."

verse 1.

Draupadi and the gopis were protected and delivered by Sri Krishna when

they remembered Him. You are Bhakti and always very dear to Him, more

dear than to Him than His own life (satatam praaNotidhikaa, verse 3). In Satya

and the other yugas, Jnana (Bodha) and Vairaagya are the means for moksha

but in Kaliyuga only Bhakti is the means for liberation. Hence, the Lord

Himself decided to send you, Bhakti, down here to Earth. Therefore, you

should meditate upon Him."

Bhakti bowed to the sage with folded hands and asked Narada what indeedshe should do. Narada said, "Once, when you bowed to Krishna with folded

hands and asked Him what you can do, He told you to nourish His devotees.

He sent Mukti along as your maidservant. Jnana and Vairaagya also came

along as your sons. They were all here, with great joy, until the end of

Dwapara yuga. When Kali began, with your permission, Mukti returned to

VaikuNTha, because of the rise of irreligiosity (adharma). But Jnana and

Vairaagya stayed with you. Because of the general neglect of people of this

yuga, they have lost all their strength and have become lifeless. Since youcame to Vrindavana, where Bhakti is ever present, you alone have been

rejuvenated but your sons have not been. Mukti returns briefly from

VaikuNTha when you remember her. "

"But do not worry," continued Narada. "There is no age like Kaliyuga. I will

established your glory in each and every home, with each and every person. In

Kaliyuga, Bhakti and Bhakti alone is the means - the proof for that are the

Gopis. When Bhakti is present, Sri Krishna will appear and stand beforeanyone."

Bhakti was happy to hear about her own glories from Narada. "You have

relieved my sorrow with your great kindness, O sage. But my two sons, please

revive them, please nourish them."


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Hearing this the sage Narada, overcome by compassion, started chanting all

the Vedas and Upanishads (Vedanta), and the Gita, over and over. They gained

a bit of strength and opened their eyes, yawned, and went back to their

sleeping stupor. Their hair was as white as a duck's feather and they remained

like lifeless logs due to extreme thirst and hunger. Narada's repeated attempts

were NOT successful. While the celestial sage was worried, a voice was heard

from the sky. "Don't worry, O sage. Your efforts will bear fruit. Let there be no

doubt. There is one pious duty that you must perform on behalf of these two."

Everyone was amazed. Everyone heard the words spoken by this voice from

the sky. Narada too was amazed. But the voice had only delivered a secret

message. What should he do?

Narada started wandering from one holy place to another and asked many

holy men. Everyone heard the story but no one had an answer. Some said, "It

is impossible." Some said, "Impossible to know." Others were dumbfounded

and still others just ran away after hearing Narada's query. All the three

worlds were confounded. If Jnana and Vairaagya cannot be revived by

chanting of the Vedas, Upanishands, Gita, over and over, what else could be

done?

Thus, Narada came to Bhadarikashrama, where great sages like Atri muni had

performed penances. That is where he met the four Sanatkumaras. They were

radiant like a koti (crore, ten million) suns.

Narada said, "O great sages, because of my great fortune, I have now met you.

Please tell me, soon, what I should do. What is that "one pious deed"? You are

always remembering Lord Hari. You are always surrendered to Him. You arealways young, like five year old boys. You are always residing in VaikuNTha.

You are older than even the oldest of all. Even in this Kaliyuga, old age (jaraa)

does not affect you. When you so much as frowned a little, with your

eyebrows coming together, the doorkeepers of VaikuNTha (Jaya and Vijaya)

were forced to fall down to the Earth. O, I am so fortunate to have met you.


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Please tell me what I have to do to revive Jnana and Vairaagya."

The (four) Kumaras said, "Don't worry, O sage. Rejoice now. You are the

crown jewel of all the Bhaktas and the renounced. You are always to head the

list when the servants of Shree Krishna are enumerated. The great sages have

shown many paths. Some of them are difficult paths but they all take one to

higher lokas, like swargaloka. Other paths lead to VaikuNtha and they remain

secret and are revealed only to the most fortunate (verses 56 and 57). We will

tell about that 'one pious deed' hinted to you by the voice you heard from the

sky."

The Kumaras continued. "There are many kinds of yajnas - dravya, jnana, tapa,

yoga, swaadhyaaya - as described by various realized souls (scholars). Thesage Shuka has spoken the Srimad Bhagavatam and it is the mere hearing of

this that will revive Jnana and Vairaagya. The power of the chanting of Srimad

Bhagavatam is very great and it will revive Bhaktis sons and bring her great

joy. Even pralaya (dissolution or deluge) can be repelled by the great sounds

of Srimad Bhagavatam chanting. All of the evil effects of Kaliyuga can be

driven out by the chanting of Bhagavatam, like the fleeing of jackals when a

lion roars. And, so it is that Bhakti, along with Jnana and Vairaagya, will dwell

in each home and rejoice and play in each person's heart."

To which Narada said, "I tried to revive Jnana and Vairaagya by chanting all

the Vedas and Vedantas (Upanishads), and the Gita, but that did not revive

them. The stories of Srimad Bhagavatam, and all slokas of the Bhagavatam,

each and every one, are nothing more than the Vedas and Vedantas. Why

would Bhagavatam be able to do anything Vedas, Vedanatas, and Upanishads

(Gita, which is all the Upanishads) could not do? Please tell me, O great sages.

Do not delay. You are forever kind to those who have come to seek shelter ofyour lotus feet."

The Kumaras said, "Bhagavatam and its stories are the product of the very

quintessence of the Vedas and the Upanishads. Hence, it is the greatest of all

and the effects produced by Bhagavatam too are different (verses 67 and 68).


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Think of a tree. All the way from the roots to the branches one can find its vital

ingredients but its essence cannot be tasted. Only the fruit of the trees reveals

its essential glorious taste that brings joy to all the worlds. Ghee is present in

milk but only when the ghee is extracted can it be relished, even by the Gods.

Sugar is present within the sugarcane, but can be tasted only when it is

extracted. And, so it is with Srimad Bhagavatam. It was revealed by Shuka for

the specific task of nourishing Bhakti, Jnana and Vairaagya. It was you who

instructed Vyasa, when the latter was dejected, and spoke to him about the

four slokas that are the very essence of Srimad Bhagavatam. So, why O great

sage, are you now amazed by what we have told you? One should encourage

others to hear the Srimad Bhagavatam (i.e., instruct them, speak to them

about it) in order to dispel their pains and sorrows."

Narada said, "I surrender to the great sages like you. It is only when one's

good fortune rises (like the rising sun) that one comes in contact with great

sages like yourselves. This can only be accumulated over many many lifetimes.

The mere sight (darshanam) of such personalities, destroys all misfortunes

and evils, and allows the growth of shreyas (the highest good) and

extinguishes the fire caused by the sorrows of this samsara. Such great

fortune, which dispels the darkness of ignorance, allows the rise of

discrimination (vivekah)."

Thus ends the story as told in chapter 2.

Here we find the solution to Narada's dilemma. The four Sanatkumaras teach

Narada how Bhakti will be established in each and every heart in this

Kaliyuga. This is what I had alluded to in my earlier post. After Lord

Venkateswara returned with His consorts, to the Sri Balaji Temple, after the

grand Kalyana Utsavam celebrations on Nov 16, 2013, I suddenly decided toread chapter 2 of the Bhagavata Mahatmyam, as a part of the daily parayanam.

I did not find time to do this earlier in the day because of the Kalyana Utsavam

but did so in the temple late that day. All the devotees, who had assembled to

volunteer their time, also waited patiently until I finished reading all the 76

slokas, along with the preliminary dhyaanam slokas. It appeared to me that


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Lord Venkateswara Himself wanted all present to hear how Bhakti will be

established in Kaliyuga, along with Jnana and Vairaagyam. Indeed, that is a

great blessing.



Govinda Govinda !! Hari Bol !

Sadguru Maharaj ki Jai !!

P. S. Read also the post about "Rishis speak about many paths", which gives

the link to an article that appeared recently in India Divine.org. There aremany paths pointed to by the great rishis but they do NOT all lead to the same

destination.

I have posted the following comment, which is awaiting moderation by the editors of India

Divine.org.

The link to the article ishttp://www.indiadivine.org/...

Paths are many, the Rishis call it by many names - Articles on Hinduism - Daily News on...

www.indiadivine.org

There is now a term to describe what Hindus are doing. Hindus are frequent to embrace what Sri

Dharma Pravartaka coined as radical universalism, or the belief that all religions and teachings are

essentially the same. This same view is also...

"I read the article with interest and also many of the comments. My purpose here is to call

attention to slokas 56 and 57 from chapter 2 of the Srimad Bhagavata Mahatmyam (the original
http://www.indiadivine.org/news/articles-on-hinduism/paths-are-many-the-rishis-call-it-by-many-names-r594?fb_action_ids=10201636257486776&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=%5B555997397810118%5D&action_type_map=%5B%22og.likes%22%5D&action_ref_map=%5B%5Dhttp://www.indiadivine.org/news/articles-on-hinduism/paths-are-many-the-rishis-call-it-by-many-names-r594?fb_action_ids=10201636257486776&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=%5B555997397810118%5D&action_type_map=%5B%22og.likes%22%5D&action_ref_map=%5B%5Dhttp://www.indiadivine.org/news/articles-on-hinduism/paths-are-many-the-rishis-call-it-by-many-names-r594?fb_action_ids=10201636257486776&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=%5B555997397810118%5D&action_type_map=%5B%22og.likes%22%5D&action_ref_map=%5B%5Dhttp://www.indiadivine.org/news/articles-on-hinduism/paths-are-many-the-rishis-call-it-by-many-names-r594?fb_action_ids=10201636257486776&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=%5B555997397810118%5D&action_type_map=%5B%22og.likes%22%5D&action_ref_map=%5B%5Dhttp://www.indiadivine.org/news/articles-on-hinduism/paths-are-many-the-rishis-call-it-by-many-names-r594?fb_action_ids=10201636257486776&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=%5B555997397810118%5D&action_type_map=%5B%22og.likes%22%5D&action_ref_map=%5B%5Dhttp://www.indiadivine.org/news/articles-on-hinduism/paths-are-many-the-rishis-call-it-by-many-names-r594?fb_action_ids=10201636257486776&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=%5B555997397810118%5D&action_type_map=%5B%22og.likes%22%5D&action_ref_map=%5B%5Dhttp://www.indiadivine.org/news/articles-on-hinduism/paths-are-many-the-rishis-call-it-by-many-names-r594?fb_action_ids=10201636257486776&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=%5B555997397810118%5D&action_type_map=%5B%22og.likes%22%5D&action_ref_map=%5B%5Dhttp://www.indiadivine.org/http://www.indiadivine.org/http://www.indiadivine.org/news/articles-on-hinduism/paths-are-many-the-rishis-call-it-by-many-names-r594?fb_action_ids=10201636257486776&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=[555997397810118]&action_type_map=[%22og.likes%22]&action_ref_map=[]http://www.indiadivine.org/http://www.indiadivine.org/news/articles-on-hinduism/paths-are-many-the-rishis-call-it-by-many-names-r594?fb_action_ids=10201636257486776&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=%5B555997397810118%5D&action_type_map=%5B%22og.likes%22%5D&action_ref_map=%5B%5Dhttp://www.indiadivine.org/news/articles-on-hinduism/paths-are-many-the-rishis-call-it-by-many-names-r594?fb_action_ids=10201636257486776&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=%5B555997397810118%5D&action_type_map=%5B%22og.likes%22%5D&action_ref_map=%5B%5D


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Sanskrit text can be obtained by performing an Internet search), where the four Sanatkumaras

instruct the celestial rishi Narada about how to revive Jnana and Vairaagya, the two sons of

Bhakti. While Bhakti remained young and youthful, her two sons had grown old, had lost all

their strength, and were virtually lifeless. I have discussed this in more detail in my recent

Facebook page posts on this topic (see Ourgitapage). Sloka 56 starts with "Rishibhih bahavO

loke panthaanah prakaTeekrutaahaa", which means that many paths have been revealed by the

great sages (rishibhih) in this loka. However, what is told after this is interesting. The

Sanatkumaras then say, "Most of these paths are difficult ones and often yield swarga as the

fruit. There are paths that lead to VaikuNTha, but they remain shrouded in secrecy. The

instruction to these paths are obtained by those who are indeed very fortunate."

What the Sanatkumaras are saying is that there are many paths pointed to by the great rishis but

they do NOT all lead to the same destination. Then they extol the vritues of Srimad Bhagavatam.

I also would like to point out that NOT being a Vedic scholar and NOT having studied theVedas, I have to rely on the interpretation of the author. However, I have studied the Bhagavad

Gita and also lecture regularly on the Gita and am fluent in Sanskrit and studied the language for

many years. The author does himself a great disservice by misquoting verse 4.11 of the Gita in

his very first paragraph. I still continued to read. In verse 4.11 of the Gita, Krishna does not say

all paths lead to Him. Rather, Krishna says, everyone follows My example. Mama (My) vartmaa

(path) anuvartante (follow) manushyaah (people) Partha (O Arjuna) sarvashah (in every way).

There is a BIG difference between, "everyone follows My example" and "All paths lead to Me".

This is not meant to be a critical rebuttal about the author's otherwise interesting article, but it

certainly falls in the category of misquoting that the author takes exception himself as the basisfor his own article.

*********************************************

Ourgitapage 25 like this 2 minutes ago(as of Nov 20, 2013, 4:50 AM)

SRIMAD BHAGAVATA MAHATMYAM (CONTD): STORY AS TOLD IN

CHAPTERS 1 TO 3

This is Part III of the story.

Once, during his travels, Narada came to Earth and visited many holy places and

found that dharma had all but disappeared. Then, when he came to Vrindavana, on the

banks of the Yamuna, he met a young lady who was lamenting. Lying beside her were
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two very old men, who were practically dead. Narada enquired about the cause of her

distress. She told Narada that her name was Bhakti and that the two old men were her

sons, Jnana and Vairagyaa. Bhakti asked Narada to help relieve her sorrow and revive

her sons. Narada promised to help Bhakti and in that process he met the four

Sanatkumaras. This story is told in Pats I and II.

The Sanatkumaras told Narada that he can revive the sons of Bhakti by performing the

Saptaha Yajna, which involves the reading of the Srimad Bhagvatam over seven

(sapta) days (aaha). Narada then wanted the Sanatkumaras to instruct him about how

to perform the Yajna. This is where the story begins in chapter 3.

The Sanatkumaras said, "On the banks of the Ganga, there is a holy place named

Ananda. It is a very beautiful place and many holy sages live there. Perform the yajnathere and it will yield unusually beautiful results (apoorva rasa roopa, verse 7)."

The Sanatkumaras themselves accompanied Narada to Ananda. As soon as they

arrived, all the celestials (devas, gandharvas, apsaras), and great sages, and all the holy

rivers and holy places personified, all the VaishNavas and sanyasis, appeared there in

the assembly. It was a wonderful scene. Narada offered an exalted seat to the

Sanatkumaras who then narrated the Srimad Bhagavatam. Everyone listened

attentively with a very fixed mind. At the end of the seven-day discourse, the

Sanatkumaras described in great detail (verses 24 to 52), the great benefits of listening

to the Srimad Bhagavatam. (A brief narrative was provided in a related post, entitled

"The home that destroys all the sins".)

The Sanatkumaras concluded with, "There are many defects and evils of Kaliyuga.

However, in this Kaliyuga, just performing this Sapataha yajna is sufficient to attain

moksha (liberation)."

Then Shaunka, the leader of the rishis of Naimisharanya, who were listening to this

story from Sooha Mahrishi, asked, "How did Bhagavatam attain this unique status, not

attainable even by those perfected in Jnana yoga and other dharmas?"

Then Sootha Mahrisihi told them about the conversation between Uddhava and

Krishna. Uddhava was a dear friend, a great devotee and cousin of Krishna. When


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Krishna was ready to return to VaikuNTha, He instructed Uddhava (this is known as

Uddhava Gita and is the topic of Canto 11 of the Srimad Bhagavatam). After

receiving the instructions, Uddhava asked Krishna what is the refuge for those on

Earth when He is not here anymore. Kali will soon arrive. How will the Earth

(Bhudevi) and all the residents here (bhaktas) survive? Who will provide them withshelter? So, Krishna, do not leave (maa vraja, verse 58) before You provide a solution

for this. You are most compassionate and extremely fond of all Your devotees.

When Krishna heard this He decided to enter with all of His opulences (swakeeyam

yat bhavet tejah) into Srimad Bhagavatam. The Bhagavatam is thus Krishna

Himself.By your devotion (sevanaat) to Bhagavatam, listening to it (shravaNaat), by

reading it (paThanaat), by seeing it (darshanaat), this Bhagavatam will destroy all sins.

(verse 62). The process of listening over seven days is considered to be the highestand most beneficial of all.

To overcome all of one's pains and sorrow, to extinguish the fire of such pain and

sorrows, to overcome one's misfortunes and cleanse them out completely, to conquer

one's anger and lust, in this Kaliyuga this indeed is the prescribed dharma (verse 64).

Sootha Mahrishi continued, "O Shaunaka, listen to a wonderful thing that happened

when the Saptaha Yajna was being conducted by Narada in the presence of the four

Sanatkumaras. Bhakti appeared suddenly in that assembly, with her two sons, Jnana

and Vairaagya. She was chanting, 'Shree Krishna Govinda Hare Murare Naatha' and

the naamas of the Lord again and again (verse 67). When everyone was wondering

how this could be, the Sanatkumaras said, 'this is indeed the proof of the power of the

Bhagavata Katha'.

Then Bhakti bowed down reverentially to the Sanatkumaras and said, "I have

nourished and rejuvenated by your exalted selves although I had been afflicted by

Kali, by feeding me and my sons with this nectar of Bhagavata katha. Please tell me

what I should do now and where I should reside."

The Sanatkumaras said, "Reside forever in the minds of the VaishNavas, in the minds

of the bhaktas, as the very form of Govinda, as one who is all filled with love, as one

who kills all the afflictions caused by the disease of taking birth, reside there


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fearlessly (no need to fear Kaliyuga) and take shelter in their hearts and minds. Kali

will not even dare to look at you, even when it is reached its full power in this world."

(verses 70 to 72).

And so, Bhakati has since been residing in the cittam (hearts and mind or conscience)of all the Haridasas (servants of Lord Hari). Bhakti resides in the hearts of even those

with no material wealth as long as they have become devotees of Lord Hari. And,

Lord Hari too, gives up His own Abode and resides in their hearts and is bound by the

chords of Bhakti (verse 73). What else can I tell you about the glories (mahimaanam)

of The Bhagavatam?"

Thus ends the story in chapter 3 of the Bhagavata Mahatmyam. In chapters 4 and 5 we

are told the story of Dhundhukari and GokarNa. The first was the son of a piousBrahmin named Atmadeva, born of his wife Dhundhuli, under interesting

circumstances. GokaraNa was born of the womb of the cow of this Brahmana due to

an interesting circumstance. They both grew up as sons of Atmadeva and Dhundhuli.

Later because of his sinful life Dhundhukari became a ghost and then attained moksha

because of the pious deeds of his brother GokarNa.



Govinda Govinda !! Hari Bol !

Sadguru Maharaj ki Jai !!

Some interesting points mentioned by Sanatkumaras about the glories of the

Srimad Bhagavatam:

In verse 45, it is stated that there is NO strict regulation (niyama) about

the days on which Bhagavatam should be heard.It can be heard at all

times.That is indeed the opinion of the great sages. One should speak the

truth during the days of Katha shravaNam. One should observe

Brahmacaryam (celibacy) during that time. However, because of the


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difficulties of such practices in this Kaliyuga, because of the difficulty of being

able to control and conquer (the evil tendencies that arise in) the mind,

because of the difficulty of entering into such deeksha (vow, penance) for a

long period in this Kaliyuga, the process of Saptaaha Yajnam (seven-day

discourse) is considered to be the best for this Kaliyuga (verses 45 to 47).

In Kaliyuga, it is difficult to control the mind, diseases afflict the body, ones

life expectancy itself is reduced, hence even the benefits which cannot be

obtained by severe austerities (yat phalam naasti tapasaa, verse 50) or yoga,

or samaadhi, can be obtained effortlessly with listening to the seven-day

discourse (verse 50).

Indeed, the seven-day listening process (saptaaha shravaNam) is superior totapas, superior to holy places, superior to all yogas, superior to all dhyaanas

(meditations), what else can be said, it is indeed the highest, Re Re garjati

garjati (verse 52).

One who listens to the Bhagavatam during his or her last moments is given the

abode of VaikuNTha very happily by Govinda Himself (verse 40).

srimad bhagavata mahatmyam (chapters 1 to 3)

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