Hinduism - A Scientific Way of Life

Golden Ratio, SriYantra and Kuber's Treasure

2011-01-03T16:34:00.011+05:30

Hello Readers,

Happy New Year 2011!

I have just revamped my Gandhi Stamps and Philatelic Materials website. Now it has an all-new design, with user friendly features that can help you navigate through the countries that have honoured Gandhiji easily. Please have a look:

http://gandhistamps.com

Last month (December 2010), Notion Ink, a Bangalore based company formed by IITians launched Adam, a notepad that has been termed as an iPad killer. Notion Ink is an indigenous Indian company that had built up a lot of expectations from its users all over the globe due to its superior product offering and lower price.

The personal connect they had with their blog-followers did pay off, and the high-end version of Adam was sold out within a day of its release. I am sure all of us feel proud that a new, wholly India-based company could conceptualize, design, market and deliver such a world-class product. The response at the CES has been amazing. Hats off to them!

As I was going through their blog, I read references to the Golden Ratio (1.618), a figure sacred to designers. The Golden Ratio is also known by the number phi, and is otherwise called the Golden mean, Divine Proportion or the Golden section. This ratio can be described from the below figure:

As is seen, the ratio of one of the sides to the other is the same as the ratio of the sum of the sides to the former. This Golden Ratio has prime importance in architectural design, as it lends a very aesthetic appearance to the object. The Pyramids in Egypt have their dimensions in a proportion equal to it. Leonardo da Vinci, the famed inventor and artist, has used the Golden ratio is many of his creations, most famously, the Vitruvian man (brought into limelight through the book "The Da Vinci Code"). Even the ratio of Fibonacci numbers (1,1,2,3,5,8,...) is successively approximate to the Golden ratio.

I wanted to find out what relevance the Golden Ratio had to India and Hinduism, and I did find something interesting. Many of you would have come across the Sri Yantra, an object of meditation that finds place in Puja Rooms:

Now, Sri Yantras are formed by 9 interlocking isoceles triangles. 4 of them point upwards and represent the female energy Shakti, while the other 5 point downwards, representing the male energy Shiva. These triangles are not ordinarily composed, but have aspects of the Golden Ratio in them. Just as we can have rectangles drawn to the specifications of the Golden Ratio, triangles too can have their properties.

Triangles have 3 variates: The base length, the slant length and the height. The angle also plays a major role. What is amazing is that the triangle of the Yantra is a proportionate cross-section of the Giza Pyramid, incorporating both special numbers pi (3.142...) and phi (1.618...) ratio. And the base angle of the triangle in the Yantra is seen to be around 51 degrees, the same value that was attributed to the base of the Great Pyramid of Giza.

The standard form of the Sriyantra, with the 9 interwoven triangles, constitutes a total of 43 triangles. Different versions have circles and squares surrounding the triangles, and they are said to form the boundary within which Gods residing in the intersections can stay. The centre of the Yantra has a Bindu (dot), which is the focus of the way you can meditate. You can either start from the inside and move out, or do it vice versa. The former is seen to be a constructive view, while the latter a destructive one.

The Sriyantra might look a fairly simple design, but the construction is a highly complex affair. There are innumerous intersections that take place between the lines of the 9 triangles, and these cuts are supposed to be concurrent. Thus, changing the position of any one shape will require adjustments in all the corresponding figures. If the intersection of the lines does not happen at a particular point, the concurrency is lost, and so is the significance. There is a lot for research going on to find out the true meaning of the Sri Yantra. Some consider it the primordial source of life, and there was a finding about how it was a manifestation of the DNA form, etc. also

Now, there is another separate reference to the Golden Ratio in connection with Kuber, the God of Wealth. It is said that Lord Kuber's treasure, the most prized collection of wealth in the universe, is hidden inside the mystical Mt.Meru. This is guarded by Nagas, or serpents. Now, Mt.Meru is also the name given to a special triangle formed by the ancient mathematician Pingala, and is called MaatraMeru. And this triangle is today called the Pascal's triangle, which some of you might be familiar with:

What is of interest (as you will observe in the above figure) is that when you move diagonally upwards starting from the first digit on each line and sum the corresponding digits along each diagonal, you end up getting the numbers of the Fibonacci series, which in-turn are in the Golden ratio. Thus, it can be inferred that our ancient texts give special importance and reverence to this "divine ratio", forming it the basis of how one reaches the treasure of the Gods.

Till Next time, Happy and Prosperous New Year 2011! May you find health, wealth and happiness equivalent to Lord Kuber's treasure!

Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

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Indian Calendar - Panchang

2010-10-29T12:14:00.003+05:30

Hello everyone,

The Diwali / Deepavali post last year:

http://scienceofhinduism.blogspot.com/2009/10/diwali-deepavali-festival-of-lights.html

seems to be bringing in truckloads of traffic to your blog. As I happened to glance at the calendar to count the days left for the festival of light, I got the inspiration for this post.

The calendar that we follow today is the Gregorian calendar, which was introduced in 1582. This was after it was found that the calendar in use till then, the Julius version, accounted for 365.25 days in a year, when in effect it was 365 days, 5 hours, 48 minutes and 46 seconds, thus slightly lesser than the assumed value. As a result, the equinox was moving steadily ahead in the year, and this was considered unacceptable.

As you know, in the current system, we have a leap year once every 4 years to compensate for the extra fraction of time taken by our beloved earth to revolve around the sun. In school, the unlucky individual whose birthday fell on 29th February was always urged to change his date of birth in order that he celebrate it ! The leap year problem is also an essential part of any quantitative aptitude test to ascertain the time period elapsed, etc.

Now, as the Gregorian calendar adds 1 day at the end of 4 years, it is not moving in synchronism with the sun. Spare the electrical jargon, but this is like a fixed step size, and does not vary smoothly taking into account the sun's variation.

Comparing the Gregorian with the Hindu calendar, generally referred to as the Panchang, we see that the Hindu version has a much more scientific relationship. While the former is based on the Solar variation and accounts for the earth's revolution around the sun as 12 months each having 30 days, the latter is based on the moon's revolution around the earth, where each month takes 28 days. To compensate for the loss of days, and extra month, called the Adhik Mas (mas is the word for month), is added every 30 months.

The Hindu counting of years generally concurs with the reign of a prominent king. For instance, the current year is the Vikram Samvat 2067, signifying that King Vikramaditya's reign started as many years ago (in 57 BC). There are many such Samvats known, but the Vikram Samvat is what is the most widely accepted and in use currently. The various months in the Vikram Samvat are listed below along with their approximate Gregorian Calendar counterparts:

Each of these months in the Hindu calendar (with 28 days) is subdivided into 2 cycles of moon waxing and waning. The 1st half is called the Krishna Paksha (dark period), where the moon wanes till Amavasya (new moon), and the Shukla Paksha (bright period), where the moon waxes till Purnima (full moon). This can be understood from the below image:

You can also check out my earlier post on the relevance of Ekadasi, the 11th tithi of the calendar:

http://scienceofhinduism.blogspot.com/2008/08/why-do-we-fast-on-ekadesi-days.html

The Hindu calendar in use is a combination of both solar and lunar inferences. The months are based on the moon, while the seasons are governed by the sun. A prominent example of a solar festival is that January 13-14 is celebrated as Pongal (in Tamil Nadu), Sankranti (north India) and Lohri (Punjab). All of these herald the entry of the sun into the Makar rashi, or the northward movement of the sun. Though the date is supposed to be somewhere between December 20th and 23rd, due to earth's tilt, it has kept sliding over years. Don't be surprised if in your future births, you find that Makar Sankranti is being celebrated in May, but that will take 1000s of years to come.

In fact, in certain temples, it is seen that on Sankranti day, sunlight graces the presiding deity. One of the temples that I can remember is the Sri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple in Bangalore, where the sunlight falls on the Shiva Lingam through Nandi's horns. Trust the ancients to establish the exact angle to honour God on the auspicious day !

Coming back to tithis, the days are calculated based on the actual longitudinal angular difference between the respective positions of the moon and the sun. Thus, it is common to see that the tithis vary in length, some shorter than our regular 24 hours, some extending beyond, and this leads to certain auspicious days being celebrated across 2 days of our Gregorian Calendar.

The Zodiac Signs or Rashis are another integral aspect of the Calendar, with 27 Nakshatras (Constellations) forming 12 Rashis, each of the latter accounting for 2.25 of the former. This is the basis of Indian Hindu Astrology, which again is a scientific art, and is very different from the general characterizations governing the Western Zodiac Date-of-birth based astrology. But more on that later, as it would requisite a separate post altogether...

For now, advanced wishes for a very Happy and Safe Diwali / Deepavali !

Nikhil Mundra
www.gandhistamps.com

29th October 2010
==============

Jantar Mantar - Temple of Instruments

2010-10-10T21:38:00.003+05:30

Hello Readers,

Being in Delhi, anyone fascinated by India's ancient scientific brilliance cannot afford to miss the Jantar Mantar. This historic observatory is located on Sansad Marg near Connaught Place. If you are in the mood for a walk, you can do so from the Rajiv Chowk Metro Station. Otherwise, it's a 5 minute ride in an auto-rickshaw.

The "Jantar Mantar" is a common name used to denote the set of 5 astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh II. Apart from the Delhi, these observatories are located in Jaipur, Mathura, Ujjain and Varanasi. Except the one in Ujjain, all the others have stood the test of time.

The term Jantar Mantar seems to be a corruption of the term "Yantra Mantra", where Yantra means Instrument and Mantra means Formula. It can also be a corruption of the term "Yantra Mandir", which translates into Temple of Instruments.

The Jantar Mantar in Delhi had a total of 4 major instruments, listed below:

1) Samrat Yantra

2) Ram Yantra

3) Jai Prakash Yantra

4) Mishra Yantra

The images of these instruments are shown below. It is understood that the Samrat Yantra is unparalleled in its size, and is clearly the largest sundial in the world.

Please find all scientific information about the instruments in this enlightening document:

http://www.jantarmantar.org/Architecture_Science_web.pdf

It is wonderful to note that Indians used scientific instruments of such huge proportionality so many years back !

Till next time,

Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

==================

Square Root Computation - Aryabhatta

2010-08-13T18:35:00.006+05:30

Hi there,

If you would ask me to vote for the most horrifying part of mathematics in school, I wouldn't bat an eyelid before screaming : Square-root ! A common Maths joke is illustrated below:

For me, and for countless other school-children, determination of Square Root of a given number (running into numerous digits) would always prove an arduous task. Thank God we are allowed to use Calculators in colleges!

The standard method taught was that of the long division, shown below:

But did you know that the method to determine a Square root was devised by Aryabhatta, as early as 475 AD? Though the knowledge of Square roots existed in India from the BC ages, proof of the method is given in Aryabhatta's celebrated work, Aryabhatiyam. The relevant Sloka is given below:

Translated into English, it says:

Divide the Non-square place by twice the Square Root of the Square place, then subtract the Square from the next Square place.

Thus, a definitive method of finding the Square root was expounded by the great Indian mathematician and astronomer, Aryabhatta.

Till next time,

Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

==================

Chess aka Chaturanga and Vishy Anand triumphs in Sofia, Bulgaria

2010-05-15T19:46:00.006+05:30

Hello friends,

Vishwanathan Anand is World Chess Champion again ! The way Vishy beat Veselin Topalov with Black pieces speaks volumes of his brilliance. Playing on his opponent's home ground in a seemingly hostile environment, Anand held his nerves, the mind-champion that he is.

After Vishy was acknowledged as a prodigy, the interest in Chess in India, and particularly in the south, has been growing at a tremendous rate. We now even have national tournaments for age categories as low as Under-5 !

To celebrate, I found it apt to make a post on Chess, which has it's origins in India. It is believed that the game was called Chaturanga, and was developed somewhere in the 6th to 8th century during the rein of the Gupta Dynasty.

Chaturanga also translates into a 4-limbed creature, possibly referring to an army that had 4 divisions. It is to be noted that in the Mahabharatha, it is clearly mentioned that the army was subdivided into 4 - Infantry, Cavalry, Chariots and Elephantry.

Chaturanga was played on an 8x8 board called Ashtapada (or) Astapada.

The pieces that we are now familiar had similar roles and moves, but the names were in the Indian context. Given below in the list - first the modern names and then the Ancient:

King - Raja

Queen - Senapati (Prime Minister)

Bishop - Gaja (Elephant)

Knight - Asva or Ghoda (Horse)

Rook - Ratha or Chariot

I have also heard that the Bishop was referred to as Oonth (Camel), which was used in battles earlier.

The Prime Minister's role in Battles is definitely more predominant in strategic planning and execution. This is proven by the multitude of powers vested in the particular piece's hands, and the way the Prime Minister can control the entire board by moving left,right,forward,back and diagonal. Thus, the presence of the Prime Minister in the ancient form is justified.

In ancient times, it was unconventional for the demure Queen to go all out in a War. How the Prime Minister piece came to be called Queen in modern-day chess is a mystery. I guess it must be in line with the western idea of creating a pair and a romantic setting, and that a King without a Queen would not seem fitting.

Chaturanga became to be called Shatranj in Persia, and then was adopted by the West.

I found an image of a miniature painting that shows Krishna and Radha engrossed in what seems to be a game of Chess.

I also remember reading an interesting story in Tinkle some time back. A pandit brought a board to the king and explained him the concept of his game, called Chaturanga. The king was non-plussed about it and didn't think it was worth bringing the pandit and his game into spotlight. So the pandit challenged the king that he should place 1 grain of rice on the starting square of the board, and then continue multiplying by the serial number of the next square and placing equivalent number of rice grains.

As it turned out, the last square needed 64! (64 factorial = 64x63x62x61x60x......x1) grains, while the kingdom could not even provide the number of grains needed till half the board was accounted for. The king then understood the significance and power of the game and introduced it in his kingdom.

So this is a proud moment for all Indians that our very own Vishy Anand is at the top of the world with this Championship win in Sofia, Bulgaria. He has brought laurels to the game that is a testimony to Indian intelligence ! There couldn't be a more fitting brand ambassador for Indian Chess !

Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

15th May 2010

=================

Scientific Indian Thali

2010-05-09T11:35:00.004+05:30

Hello everyone,

Finding an article about the Science behind the Indian Thali, I just couldn't resist combining my top 2 passions - Scientific India and Food !

The epitome of Indian food is the quintessential Thali. It is little wonder that any travel-documentary is incomplete unless the presenter visits a restaurant that claims to serve the "Authentic Indian Thali".

Translated from Hindi as "Plate", the Thali comprises all the essential ingredients in a menu. The Thali has various variants that depend on the region where it is being served, but all the nutrients that are part of it remain almost the same.

So here comes a short post about the "Scientific Indian Thali". Check out the below link from Deccan Chronicle, one of the leading national dailies:

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/supplementary/sunday-chronicle/scientific-indian-thali-930

As mentioned, the Thali has all nutrients required for the effective functioning of our body.

However, in today's fast-paced world, such an elaborate arrangement with A-Z dishes is quite a luxury. No wonder we prefer fast-foods, that help bring down our health at a faster pace :-)

Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

9th May 2010

==========

Holi, Colours and Bhang

2010-02-28T14:24:00.007+05:30

Hi there,

Wishing you, your family and your friends a very Happy and Colourful Holi !

On this Joyous occasion, let me describe the significance of the Holi Festival and it's inherent meaning.

Holi is celebrated on 2 days:

1) Day 1 - Burning of a ceremonial pyre of wood and other waste materials

2) Day 2 - Playing with colours

For the background of the Prahalada and Hiranyakashyap legend, you can refer to my earlier post about the Narsimha Avatar of Lord Vishnu:

http://scienceofhinduism.blogspot.com/2008/06/narsimha-avatar.html

Here, before Lord Vishnu takes the form of Narasimha to kill the evil Asura Hiranyakashyap, there is an episode about the Asura King's sister Holika. This sister was very resourceful - she had the magical ability to withstand any degree of fire-burns, which meant she was invincible when it came to fire.

In order to get rid of Prahalad, Hiranyakashyap asked Holika to sit in a burning pyre with his son on her lap. Thus, he assumed Prahalad would get burnt, while Holika would come out unscathed. But to his horror, the exact opposite happened. Prahalad kept chanting Lord Vishnu's name and came out unhurt, while Holika went up in flames.

This event is celebrated each year as the 1st day of Holi, when a huge pyre consisting of wood, hay, and other items which are not useful is set up and then burnt. This scene is visible in various community centres where people gather to build up the pyre by contributing articles from their homes and then lighting it up.

This entire ritual is a symbolic rendition on the Triumph of Good over Evil. Moreover, lighting the pyre is a way to cleanse our house of old and useless things and to start afresh. The burning is done in community centres to bring about a sense of oneness.

The next day is what Holi has become most popularly associated with - the day when you play with colours. It is a fantastic sight to see people getting rid of their inhibitions and coming out in full force to drench each other in a variety of colours. The entire atmosphere looks like a huge canvas where everyone is a painter busy applying different shades of Red, Pink, Yellow, Green and Bloue onto his work of art. Dry colours (powder), Coloured Water and Small Balloons filled with water are all part of the celebratory instruments.

The entire atmosphere is ecstatic and one in which you flow with the happenings. Even the most introvert of persons tend to forget their shyness and mingle with people starting from friends right upto those whom they have never met in their lives.

Playing Holi is most famously associated with Lord Krishna, and in Mathura and Vrindavan witness beautiful scenes where Holi is played with a fervour like nowhere else.

One of the most controversial practices of the Colours Day is the consumption of Bhang. Extracted from the Cannabis plant (Cannabis indica), Bhang is an intoxicant which is known to be a stress reliever. Bhang is often associated with Lord Shiva, and his followers, the Naga Sadhus of the Kumbha Mela, are often seen smoking Cannabis.

Keeping with the free-spirited Colours Day, Bhang is mixed in Laddoos and a drink called Thandai. There is a good section that takes it willingly, though it is also a cat-and-mouse game with people trying to get others consume these intoxicating drinks without their knowledge. The results vary with the individual, with some getting mentally knocked out while others starting to blurt out hitherto hidden facts in their frenzied state.

Though Bhang (Cannabis) is banned in certain western countries, in India it is known to be a relaxant and helps those who can handle its effects. It has been part of the Ayurvedic tradition for a long time, and it is offically sold in Government Authorized shops in certain parts of India. Bhang is a big hit during the Holi season.

This day of playing with colours is what Holi has come to be most famously associated with. Metaphorically, it is an opportunity to splash colour into your plain life. Also, it a great chance to get to know new people from diverse backgrounds, or to bond up with old pals. It is a time to forget all your qualms, live life to the fullest and celebrate the joy of bonding with your friends.

Reader Mr.Koushik Roudra added the following - Holi is celebarted at the advent of spring. Burning the Holika also has a scientific significance - by burning the waste we are also creating flames, which will drive away the mosquitos. Also authentic gulal has a medical value for the skin, as in the earlier days it was made from Turmeric, Neem and other herbs.

HAPPY HOLI !

Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

=================

Speed of Light

2010-02-22T16:10:00.005+05:30

Hi there,

Posting after ages about a quantity that is a source of energy to all living beings on earth : LIGHT.

The most well-known source of light is the Sun, or Surya Dev in Hinduism. Suryadev has been worshiped in India since time immemorial following the traditional way of respecting and worshipping important forms of nature. Suryadev is a part of many festivals, including Pongal or Makar Sankranti, Chattha Puja, etc. The Surya Namaskara is a complete exercise procedure that is part of the daily-morning routine of many Indian homes. Will surely put up a post on this beautiful Yogic exercise soon...

It is a well-known fact that light travels at a phenomenal speed of 3 x 10^8 metres/sec. This value is etched into the memory of students in their early years in school, and is useful is solving umpteen number of problems where the constant 'c' is used to denote the Speed of light.

This value of the Speed of Light was established by the experiment conducted by Michelson and Morley, celebrated American Physicists in the 19th Century.

But did you know that a very close value to the calculated one was determined in the 14th Century AD in India? The below sloka is part of the Rig Veda:

Saint Sayanacharya (c.1300's), after reading the Rig Veda, gave the following comment:

The above translates into:

"It is to be noted that the Light due to the Sun travels 2202 Yojanas in half a Nimesha"

Now for the calculation. Converting the units used in ancient India to those used presently :

1 Yojana = 9 miles

2202 Yojanas = 19818 miles

1 nimesha = 0.21333 seconds

1/2 nimesha = 0.10665 seconds

Speed = distance / time = 19818 / 0.10665 = 185822 miles per second = 299044 kms per second.

The value calculated by Michelson and Morley was approximated to 186000 miles per second, which is used these days along with the more common 3 x 10^8 metres per second.

It must also be noted that Sayanacharya was only commenting on the Rig Vedic text. It is possible that even earlier interpretations and findings existed, but have not stood the tests of time.

Thus, our Ancient Vedic Indians had established the Speed of Light much before scientists in other parts of the world ! This again proves the Scientific knowledge of Ancient India. Very Enlightening, isn't it?

Till next time,

Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

=================

Diwali / Deepavali - Festival of Lights

2009-10-15T17:59:00.005+05:30

Hello everyone,

Coming back after a month long hiatus with a post on probably the most celebrated festival in Hinduism, Diwali.

As you know, people from all parts of the country celebrate Diwali with the same gusto and splendour. It is a time to visit friends and family, exchange wishes, interact and bond. It is also a time of great rejoicement and festivities. Diwali is a more general form of pronouncing Deepavali, which means an array of Deeps (lamps).

When I was young, Diwali for me was a day when I had a holiday from school (very important!), could wear new clothes and burst sparkling fire-crackers. Slowly, the concept has changed. Now Diwali has a deeper and more profound impact on me, and that is exactly what I would like to share. So let us look at the legends behind Diwali:

The first one is from Ramayan, which describes Diwali as the day when Lord Ram returned victoriously to his kingdom of Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravan of Lanka. Lord Ram was given an arousing welcome, and the entire city dazzled with Diyas. This was later celebrated as an annual festival called Deepavali or Diwali.

The second reference is related to Lord Krishna. Once there was an evil demon called Narakasura, who was a tyrant and was forever oppressing the common people. All of them prayed to Lord Krishna to relieve them from his clutches. Thus, Lord Krishna came and after an intense battle, he killed Narakasura using his Sudarshan Chakra. The people rejoinced, lit the city with lamps, and this incident came to be annually celebrated as Diwali.

If you look at the common thread between these 2 legends, it portrays the victory of good over evil, of light eclipsing the darkness, and of righteousness holding forth against all odds. Thus, the Diwali festival is a very symbolic one that extols us to kill our inner demons (negativities) and purify our soul by lighting it up with goodness.

Now let me give a brief description of the festival. Diwali is celebrated across 4 days, starting from the 13th day of the month of Ashwin. This day is called Dhanteras, literally translated into wealth-thirteenth. Interestingly, though the number 13 has negative connotations in some other religions, this day is considered a very auspicious one. It is an age-old tradition to buy gold and other ornaments on Dhanteras. Also, if one sees a house-lizard on that day, he/she is considered to be lucky. So do look out for those slippery creatures tomorrow!

Why is it good to buy jewelery on Dhanteras? I don't think there is any specific reason, apart from instilling a sense of savings in the family. If you consider the price of Gold, it is forever on the rise. If one has cash, there will be a tendency to spend it even for wasteful/useless purposes. But on the other hands, a solid ornament of gold can be a form of a saving, and a good investment too. This might also be the reason why purchase of gold on Akshaya Tritiya is suggested to be very auspicious.

The next day is the Choti (Small) Diwali, while Diwali and Badi (Big) Diwali follow the smaller one. For us Marwadis, Diwali is of special significance because of the Lakshmi Puja conducted on the main Diwali day. Lakshmi, being the goddess of wealth, is requested to forever remain in our home and not desert us. Diwali is considered the beginning of the new financial year, and new account books are opened on Diwali. The books, pen and the ink-pot is also venerated.

The Puja is conducted in the evening, after which, it is time to burst crackers. This is probably the most exciting part of Diwali. Crackers of all shapes, sizes and varieties light up the sky, and provide a visual treat to all the spectators. Though earlier the crackers were just a symbolic representation of light illuminating our lives, these days it has become a contest among people to show off their wealth by spending a lot of money on crackers.

Not only does this one-upmanship contribute result in literal "burning" away of money, it also contributes a lot towards environmental pollution. Crackers that illuminate are understandable to be synonymous with Diwali, but why do we need ear-deafening bombs and Ladis? It is beyond my comprehension. Also, let us look back at what goes into making these crackers. Helpless child-laborours working in inhuman conditions by foregoing their education produce the fire-crackers. Do we really need to burst crackers to enjoy a few moments while our brethren suffer for years?

So this Diwali, I hope we can go for a pure Diya day or just a minimal amount of cracker-bursting. Let us focus instead on lighting up our lives by killing our inner defects and illuminate the lives of others with our goodness.

Happy Diwali !

- Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

15th October 2009

=================

Vedic Maths

2009-09-04T12:37:00.006+05:30

Good Afternoon,

Another appaling newspaper headline - A person in the USA applies for patenting the Vedic Maths method! Similar to patenting the physical practices like Yoga and Thoppukaram (alias Super Brain Yoga), people in the USA have now begun to patent our intellectual concepts like Vedic Maths as well...

So what is Vedic Maths? It is a way of computing Mathematical quantities at an extremely fast rate and is based on 16 basic Vedic Slokas/Sutras. The list of Sutras as mentioned in the Vedic Maths Foundation are given below:

The method, found in the Vedas, was lost for centuries, but was brought to light by Sri Bharti Krsna (Krishna) Tirthaji Maharaj, Jagadguru of the Puri Mutt from 1925-1960. After painstakingly researching the Atharvana Veda to make a compendium of all the shortcuts involved to make maths simpler, the Jagadguru was shocked when his entire manuscript was found burnt in a house fire. But he didn't lose heart, and before breathing his last, he rewrote parts of the huge-resource, even though we will never get to know the entire list of formulas.

The most simplest and commonly used method of Vedic Maths is the multiplication of large numbers in a fast way. Consider you are multiplying 123 and 456. You can either go for the long multiplication method, or use the one I have stated below, which can be done mentally (The lines between numbers denote multiplication) :

Finally, the result is 56088, which is the actual answer. The beauty of this technique is that it can be extended upto n digits in both multiplicants, and we could still use a one-line or mental calculation method. Do try it out for other numbers as well as larger ones...

For those of you who are interested, you can check out the book "Vedic Mathematics", authored by Tirthaji Maharaj himself:

Apart from this multiplication technique, it contains several other techniques that can be used to simplify topics such as Quadratic and Cubic equations, fractional coefficients, geometric applications of equations, Hyperbolas, Asymptotes, etc. Unfortunately, there is only a small intro to Integral and Differential Calculus. If only these topics would have been dealt in detail, it would make the life of so many school-children and would-be engineers. It certainly would have made mine a lot better :-)

- Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

==================

Ganesh / Vinayaka Chaturthi - Surgery/Transplant & Moon-Waxing,Waning

2009-08-22T22:33:00.005+05:30

Namaste,

I am a big fan of our Hindu traditions and our calender, simply because there is no month devoid of festivities! The basic background of celebrating so many times a year is that these festivals give us reasons to meet our relatives, interact with

them and share our joys and sorrows. Thus, we are forever in touch with our friends and family, and thus these festivals create a sense of bonding that unites us.

Why I particularly like them so much is that I get an excuse to gorge on the umpteen amounts of sweets that are prepared for each of these events :-)

This month (August) witnesses 2 biggies - The Krishna Janmashtami (celebrated earlier on the 14th of August), and the Ganesh or Vinayak Chaturthi, which falls tomorrow.

Lord Ganesha, also known as Ekdanta (one with a single tooth), Vinayaka, Vignaharta (remover of obstacles), etc., is the only mainstream God to have a non-human face. Legend has it that Goddess Parvati, wife of Lord Shiva, created a boy out of the cosmetic paste applied before her bath. The boy was beautiful and strong, and she instructed him to guard her home while she was bathing. Presently, Lord Shiva came and wanted to talk to his wife. The boy, unaware of who Lord Shiva was, refused to allow him inside. Even though Lord Shiva explained his relation, the young boy stood his ground, unwilling to waver from his mother's orders. Agitated, Lord Shiva ordered his army to attack him, but so brave was he that each of his Ganas bit the dust.

Unable to bear further humiliation, Lord Shiva resorted to a trick, where he confronted the boy from the front, while Lord Vishnu sliced off his head from behind with his Sudarshan Chakra. When Goddess Parvati came out, she was enraged to find her son dead. And when the mother Goddess, the source of all energy itself is angry, the world falls in a pall of gloom. The Devas realised that they had committed a huge crime, and tried to pacify her. But she would just not listen to them.

Finally, the Devas decided that the only way to create harmony was to bring back the child to life. But as the head had been mutilated, they could not use the same one. Thus, they went east, brought the head of the first baby elephant they encountered, affixed it on the boy's body, and brought him back to life. As an icing on the cake, the Devas agreed that from that day onwards, Lord Ganesha would always be the first God to be worshipped, and all Pujas would begin with him being venerated first.

Coming to the scienctific part, this legend indicates the first ever surgery/transplant taking place in history, with the head of the elephant being made a substitute for the slain boy's head. This would have involved a unique surgery, and we already know that our ancient Indians had a great knowledge of surgery from the books of Sushruta (More about his surgical brilliance in the future).

Another scientific connection related to Lord Ganesha is a legend associated with one of his early birth anniversaries and the waxing/waning of the moon. Baby Vinayaka, dressed up in all his finery was welcoming the various Devas for a grand celebration on his birthday. But he had not even touched a morsel of food since morning, and was feeling extremely hungry. On getting the first opportunity, he started eating all the dishes excitedly. This amused Chandradev (Moon), who openly ridiculed Lord Ganesha by laughing, thus making fun of his way of eating and his pot belly. All the Devas were shocked, as they knew that however childish Ganesha was, he was extremely knowledgeable, powerful and brilliant. Thus, the moon had incurred Ganesha’s wrath by insulting him like this.

Lord Vinayaka grew angry, and wanted to punish the moon for being proud and vain of his handsomeness. But Lord Shiva intervened and requested his son to be mild in his judgement. Ganesha then decreed that the moon would be confined to the night only, and would also lose some of its beauty. He added that the moon would not be visible in its full glory all the time, and would be waxing and waning in cycles. The moon, humbled by his offence, agreed to abide by these conditions. And Lord Ganesha went back to his merry eating.

Thus, we notice that the concept of the moon’s blemished surface (as seen from earth due to craters) have been mentioned in the texts of yore through this legend. Moreover, the phenomenon of the waxing and waning cycle of the moon has also been mentioned using this legend relating Lord Ganesha and the Moon.

Ganapati Bappa Moriya! Wishing all of you a Happy and Prosperous Vinayak Chathurthi.

-Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

=================

Jayadeva & Geeta Govinda - Stamps on Lord Vishnu's Dasavathars

2009-08-14T10:00:00.006+05:30

Good Morning,

Though this post is slightly off-topic, it is related to the Dasavathars.

One of the things I am quite passionate about is Philately. I focus on all philatelic material (stamps,covers,etc.) related to Mahatma Gandhi. You would be surprised to learn that more than 90 countries have issued stamps on Mahatma Gandhi. The detailed scans are available on my website:

www.gandhistamps.com

India recently issued a set of 11 stamps (yes, 11!) on the 12th century epic "Gita Govinda" by Jayadeva. This is perhaps the largest single set of stamps issued on a single topic together. The scan is shown below:

The stamp on the top is that of the author Jayadeva, while the other 10 stamps depict the Dasavathars.

The Gita Govinda is written with the view of Lord Krishna as the supreme being, and the Dasavathars being incarnations of Lord Krishna. What is interesting is that all the Avathars (Mathsya, Kurma, Varaaha, Narasimha, Vamana, Parasuram, Ram, Balaram, Buddha, Kalki) are the same as those described to be Lord Vishnu's Dasavathars.

Thus, it can be termed as just a different view-point, with the Dasavthars being a common link for the different chapters of Hindu worship.

- Nikhil Mundra

14th August 2009

=============

Dhwaj (or) Dhvaja Stambha - Flag mast - Lightning Arrestor

2009-08-01T08:02:00.006+05:30

Hello everyone,

Stambhas (pillars) play an important role in both Hinduism and our ancient history. Kirti Stambhas were erected by Kings to commemorate their famous victories. The most famous one among them is the Vijay Stambha in Chittor, Rajasthan (shown below).

Literally translated into "Tower of Victory", it was made by Rana Kumbha to celebrate his victory over the combined forces of Malwa and Gujarat led by Mahmud Khilji in 1442.

The other variety of Stambha is the Dhwaja Stambha, which is a very common feature in most of the Indian temples. It is a tall post-like structure, which is referred to as the flag-mast of the deity of the temple. The Dhwaja Stambha is different from the Kirti Stambha, as it is characteristically thinner. Also, it is made of metal or has a metal covering rather than the former, which is made predominantly of stone.

During festivities, the Dhwaja Stambha is decorated with different types of flags to commemorate and celebrate that particular event. The Dhvaja Stambha is present in a straight line from the deity, just before the Vahana of the deity, which is also in the same axial line.

It is referred to as being a medium for the Heavens to be connected to the earth, which would refer to it being a spiritual connector between us earthlings and the supreme being, God, above.

But can this explanation have a deeper significance? Now what could be the reason behind constructing a metal pillar in the precincts of the temple? I believe that the Dhavaja Stambha is basically an ancient lightning arrestor. The principle of the arrestor is pretty simple, which can be understood from the below figure:

Whenever lightning strikes, the metal arrestor, placed such that it is the highest point of the region, induces the charge to conduct through it. The Arrestor then conducts the heavy electrical impulse directly to ground, thus preventing the building from getting damaged.

It can be noticed that the top of the Dhwaja Stambha is the highest point of the temple, and thus, whenever lightning would strike, the temple would be saved from the devastating damage that could have been caused. This is what could be meant from the explanation that it connects "Heaven to earth" (i.e.) it conducts the charges from the clouds above during lightning to earth or ground, which is the electrical term for a no-potential area.

It's really wonderful how our ancient Indian Hindus have incorporated this principle in order to safeguard the most important place of their social setting, the temples.

Till next time,

- Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

1st August 2009

==================

Turmeric (Haldi, Curcumin) - The Magical Spice/Herb of India

2009-07-25T18:32:00.009+05:30

Good Evening,

There are a lot of other discoveries and findings made by Aryabhatta, but I am taking a break for now. Will come back to Aryabhatta's scientific discoveries sometime later. This post deals with the various beneficial properties of Turmeric, one of the most important herbs of our tradition that has been used in India since time immemorial.

I am sure you would agree that there is no home in India which does not use Turmeric. Called Haldi in India, it is utilised for a variety of purposes in our daily lives.

Turmeric has been part of our cooking since aeons, and is used both as a spice as well as for natural colouring. Ayurveda cuisine refers to the use of turmeric in it's dishes, and that practice has been passed down the generations.

Get ready for a long post loaded with links, because Turmeric (Haldi) has a plethora of medicinalproperties due to the presence of the chemical Curcumin. Some of these are:

1) Prevention or Slowing down Alzheimer's disease. Please refer links below to understand the medical background:

http://www.bio-medicine.org/medicine-news/Chemical-Compound-in-Turmeric-Helps-to-Fight-Alzheimers-23139-1/

http://www.annalsofian.org/text.asp?2008/11/1/13/40220

One important point being mentioned is that because we have turmeric as a staple inclusion in our diet, Indians are found to be less vulnerable to Alzheimer's disease.

2) Turmeric (Curcumin) blocks Brain tumour activity:

http://www.mdlinx.com/hemeonclinx/news-article.cfm/2663688

3) Curcumin is helpful against pancreatic ailments:

http://www.research.ucla.edu/tech/ucla02-427.htm

http://www.freepatentsonline.com/7060733.html

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12488237

4) Curcumin is anti-inflammatory, and thus is helpful in diseases like rheumatoid arthiritis and other autoimmuno diseases:

http://seniorjournal.com/NEWS/Nutrition-Vitamins/6-10-30-AsianSpiceTurmeric.htm

http://autoimmunedisease.suite101.com/article.cfm/turmeric

5) Turmeric helps in digestion by inducing bile juice, and is thus good for the liver too. That's why it's subscribed whenever someone in India has jaundice:

http://www.articlesbase.com/alternative-medicine-articles/liver-detox-benefits-with-turmeric-276694.html

http://patient-research.elsevier.com/patientresearch/displayAbs?key=S0271531700800305

6) A summary of the anti cancer properties of Curcumin, the chemical in Turmeric (Haldi) is given below. It is observed that Curcumin aids the cell-cycle arrest, which, if allowed to continue, would help in the mutation of cells and development of cancer:

http://www.goodhealth.nu/News_Articles/050111-curcumin-anti-cancer-US.htm

Detailed medical analysis of Curcumin is provided in the below link:

http://www.inchem.org/documents/jecfa/jecmono/v35je09.htm

Apart from this, Turmeric (Haldi) has been used since time immemorial in India as a Grandma's cure for skin infections, cuts, wounds and lesions. Recent studies prove that Curcumin inserts itself into cell membranes, making them more stable and thus healing them. Refer the below link:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090420123051.htm

Turmeric (Haldi) has also been used in India as a cosmetic. People, especially the women-folk are advised to use it to get a glowing and radiant skin.

It is also a common ritual to apply turmeric paste on the to-be bride and groom before marriage in the traditional Hindu ceremony. Studies show that Turmeric helps fight Melanoma, a deadly form of skin-cancer. Refer below link:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2005/07/050712232338.htm

I remeber my mother giving me a glass full of "Haldi ka doodh", or Turmeric dissolved in milk, whenever I had a cold/cough/fever, was feeling weak or was having body-pain. Turmeric seems to be a natural pain-killer and is seen to be helpful against all these symptoms. Please refer below links:

http://www.streetdirectory.com/travel_guide/110924/rheumatology/turmeric_as_arthritis_joint_pain__inflammation_treatment.html

http://www.curing-colds.com/articles/alternative-cold-remedies/turmeric.php

Another nice article summarizing Turmeric's benefits:

http://www.infinityfoundation.com/mandala/t_es/t_es_tiwar_turmeric.htm

Phew! When I started this post, I frankly knew only about Turmeric's beneficial properties for Alzheimer's and Body pain. But even after so much of research and new benefits that I have learnt, I am sure there are still many things which have been left out. I think Turmeric (Haldi) does deserve another post in the near future.

So, the bottom-line is that Turmeric (Haldi), an inseparable part of Indian cuisine and Indian tradition, has been proclaimed and accepted as a wonder-herb for it's array of Medicinal properties. No wonder that it has been used in India for ages. Our ancestors had identified it's beneficial properties and made sure that it is both consumed on a daily basis and used for the specific ailment when required...

Till next time,

- Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

25th July 2009

=================

Rare Triple Eclipse, Aryabhatta and End of World?

2009-07-05T21:27:00.010+05:30

Good Afternoon,

Astronomers are in for a rare treat with a triple eclipse occuring in the span of a month starting from tomorrow. The schedule has a Solar Eclipse on July 22nd sandwiched between two Lunar eclipses on July 7th and August 6th.

The first recorded triple eclipse took place in 3067 BC, hovering around the Kurukshetra war period. Another one in 3031 BC oversaw the collapse of the Golden city of Dwarka. This was a turbulent time and signalled the end of the Dwapar Yuga and the beginning of the KalYuga, which is currently going on.

Interestingly, the Mayan Long calender ends on December 29th, 2012. Lord Krishna had predicted that approximately 5000 years after the onset of KalYuga, there will be a lot of problems on the earth...

Triple eclipses have also been seen to coincide with both the World Wars. So is this a premonition of something dangerous about to happen? We will just have to wait and watch...

Eclipses have mystified the human race from millenia. In ancient China, a dragon was thought to be swallowing the sun whenever an eclipse occured. Records from ancient Greece attribute the eclipses to Zeus, the king of Gods. The eclipses also form an important observation subject of the Mayans and the Incas.

However, the concept of the eclipse has been woven into a story in ancient Hindu texts, and a very famous one at that. It is connected with the churning of the milky ocean (Samudramanthan). I have already mentioned this episode in my series on Lord Vishnu's Dasavathars. The post is on the 2nd Avatar, the Tortoise form of Kurma:

http://scienceofhinduism.blogspot.com/2008/05/kurma-avatar.html

The last item to come out of the great milky ocean was the pot of nectar (Amrit). A fight ensued between the Sevas and Asuras on who should have a go at it first. Then Lord Vishnu appeared in the form of Mohini, an enchantress, and volunteered to distribute the potion. Blinded by lust, the Asuras gullibly agreed. Mohini began doling out the potion to the Devas first, and an intelligent Asura named Rahu saw through her plan. Taking the form of a Deva, he sat between Chandra (Moon God) and Surya (Sun God).

Chandra recognized Rahu as one different from them, and tried to inform the same to Lord Vishnu. But the damage had already been done. By the time Lord Vishnu's Sudarshan Chakra took care of Rahu, the Asura had drunk the Amrit. Though the divine Chakra sliced him into two, both his head and his body remained alive. Since he too had become immortal, Lord Vishnu ordered Rahu (the head) and Ketu (the body) to remain in the company of the sun and moon, and thus they complete the Navagraha along with the other planets. The significance of the 7 planets + Rahu and Ketu will be discussed in another post...

It is said that the eclipse occurs whenever Rahu tries to engulf the moon or come between the moon and the sun. It is important to note the reference of Rahu sitting between the Sun and Moon, thus creating a barrier or shadow, which is the principle of the eclipse. This is how the concept of eclipses was passed down from generation to generation in ancient India.

Meanwhile, I came across a Shloka in which Aryabhatta, India's great mathematician and astronomer of the ancient age, has lucidly explained the concept of both the Solar and Lunar eclipses. This Shloka, from his famous work Aryabhatiyam, was stated in 499 AD, and is given below:

Translated into English, it says "The moon covers the sun and the great shadow of the earth covers the moon."

Thus, in a single line, Aryabhatta has described both the eclipses. Truly a blessed and great soul!

I recently read reports that 2 places in Bihar, known to be the birthplace of Aryabhatta, are called "Taregna" and "Khagoul". Clearly, both are in honour of their most famous son, Aryabhatta's astronomical expertise, as both of them are corruptions of Astronomical terms. Taregna relates to "Tare" (Stars), while "Khagol" is Astronomy in Hindi. Isn't it wonderful that Bihar will be under the spotlight and witness to this once-in-a-lifetime spectacle?

- Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

11th July 2009

=================

Aryabhatta - Planetary Motion

2009-06-06T10:51:00.006+05:30

Namaste Everyone,

I've been away from my PC for a long time now. Had my 6th semester exams, and as you know about us would-be engineers, we open our books only the night before each dreaded paper. Add an eye infection to this already precarious scenario, and you can understand why there's no post for about a month.

This is the 2nd instalment in the series of posts on India's most famous Mathematician, Aryabhatta. He was also a renowned astronomer, and this post gives credance to the fact that he formulated some very important laws based on his observations.

Our curriculum teach us that theory on Planetary motion was propounded by Johannes Kepler, a German Astronomer and Mathematician. This was done as late as the 17th century AD. But as usual, India had an answer to the same question way back in the 5th Century AD. The following Sloka from Aryabhatiyam-Kalakriyapada gives Aryabhatta's version:

The meaning of this Sloka is as follows:

"The mean planets move on their orbits and the true planets move in eccentric circles. All such planets move with their own motion, anti-clockwise from their apogees and clockwise from their perigees."

So it took around 1200 years for the Western "Civilization" to re-discover something that Aryabhatta had stated in the 5th Century! Truly Amazing!

- Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

www.nikhilloids.blogspot.com

6th June 2009

================

Aryabhatta - Astronomer, Mathematician, Scientist

2009-04-05T11:59:00.005+05:30

Hi,

The post on Thoppukaranam alias "Super Brain Yoga" seems to have garnered a lot of interest. These days your blog is averaging 50+ hits a day! Sadly, this also goes on to show that when our ancient practices are marketed by the west, they receive a tremendous response... But my belief is that if people are going to be benefited by it, there is no harm in whichever method the publicity comes...

With this post I am starting a series on possibly ancient world's greatest mathematician and astronomer, Aryabhatta.

Aryabhatta was born around 475 AD, and had already published his most significant work, "Aryabhatiyam", by the age of 23.

Though Aryabhatta has made innumerous contributions to both mathematics and astronomy, in this post, I would like to specifically elucidate how he was the first person to identify the irrationality of possibly the most enchanting and intriguing of numbers, Pi.

Aryabhatiyam is also referred to as Ashtamkara and also as Aryashastasashta (108 verses), but is now popularly called Aryabhatiyam. The Sanskirt verse describing Pi is given below:

The English interpretation of the above Shloka would be:

Add 4 to 100, multiply by 8, then add 62000, then divide by 20000. The result is "approximately" circumference of a circle of diameter 20000.

The answer of the above calculation is 62832/20000 = 3.1416.

By using the word "Asanna" (last word in the Sanskrit verse), Aryabhatta clearly states that the value so found is not exact, but an "approximate" one, something that was "approaching" the exact value. So he is referring to it being irrational.

This is quite a significant contribution, as it was not until the 17th century that Pi was proved to be irrational in Europe.

Keep watching out in the forthcoming weeks for more such interesting stuff on Aryabhatta...

- Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

www.nikhilloids.blogspot.com

=====================

Thoppukaranam (alias) Super Brain Yoga

2009-03-10T08:25:00.004+05:30

Hi there,

Recently, my friend sent me a video link on Youtube about a special kind of exercise called "Super Brain Yoga":

Almost immediately, I read an article about the same in one of our National Dailies:

http://www.dc-epaper.com/DC/DCC/2009/03/08/ArticleHtmls/08_03_2009_001_025.shtml?Mode=0

As you can understand, this exercise, called "Super Brain Yoga" by the Americans, is nothing but the simple "Thoppukaranam", the reverential practice done by Hindus in front of Lord Ganesha's temple.

As per the medical research and subsequent report, doing these special kind of situps while holding the opposite earlobes help stimulate brain power and remember things better.

Hindus have been doing "Super Brain Yoga" for ages in front of temples devoted to Lord Ganesha. In fact, I have observed that while crossing a Ganesha temple on road, most people stop, take off their footwear, perform "Thoppukaranam", and then resume their journey. Lord Ganesha is associated with Knowledge/Memory, a point which is now proved by this research.

But what is saddening is that many of our traditions are being copyrighted by the western world, and the latest point in this case is "Thoppukaranam" being copyrighted as "Super Brain Yoga"...

- Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

www.nikhilloids.blogspot.com

10th March 2009

=============

Baudhayana Part - 2 + Darwin Evolution

2009-02-15T15:14:00.007+05:30

Hi there,

Posting after a more than a month! Life is getting pretty busy these days, due to a hectic college schedule... In the meantime, I take pleasure in informing that this blog now has 6 followers and has just crossed 3000 unique visits. Thanks a lot for your support !

Check out the other contributions by Baudhayana in this post, apart from a note on the widely publicised 200th birth anniversary and 150th Anniversary of the Theory of Evolution by Charles Darwin celebrated recently.

From what I have learnt about him, Baudhayana was basically a priest who designed "Yagnas" (fire-altars). While formulating the design, he wrote down his observations that have become important geometrical laws.

In fact, the word "Geometry" itself is derived from ancient Indian "Giamity", and Trignometry is similarly derived from "Trikonamity". Of course, we have studied that these words have Greek and Latin roots, which, as usual, seems to be wrong.

Moving on, Baudhayana devised an interesting method to determine the square root of numbers, which is given by the following Sutra:

samasya dvikaraNI. pramANaM tritIyena vardhayet
tachchaturthAnAtma chatusastriMshenena savisheShaH.

The method can be explained by the following example, which yields an amazingly close solution:

Another of Baudhayana's findings is the procedure to circle a square (i.e.) find a circle whose area is the same as the given square:

Draw half its diagonal about the centre towards the East-West line; then describe a circle together with a third part of that which lies outside the square.

Explanation:

Draw the half-diagonal of the square, which is larger than the half-side by .
Then draw a circle with radius , or , which equals .
Now , so this turns out to be which is about $a 2$ .

Apart from stating the "Pythagorean" theorem, Baudhayana also found some "Pythagorean" triplets like (5.12,13), etc.

All the above discoveries were made when Baudhayana was devising different Yagnas (fire-altars). Though only this information is available, one can only imagine what else he would have discovered but the references to which are not available to modern-man...

Moving on, the month of February this year marked the twin-celebrations of Charles Darwin's 200th birth anniversary and the 150th anniversary of his "Theory of Evolution". As we al know, Darwin is recognised all over the world for ahving developed the concept of Evolution, about how man has grown from the animal he was earlier.

But if only Darwin had come to India instead of going to Galapagos, he would have discovered that his "theory" has already been stated in our Vedas in a different form - Lord Vishnu's Dasavathars. Starting from the 1st Avatar (Matsya - fish - aquatic), Lord Vishnu tranforms step-by-step into an Amphibian (Kurma - Tortoise), then into a Mammal (Varaha - Boar), half-man half-animal (Narasimha), Pygmy (Vamana), and then into a man. Indians have known this theory for ages, while the world came to know it only in 1859. Jai Hind !

- Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

www.nikhilloids.blogspot.com

2nd March 2009

=======================

Baudhayana (Pythagoras) Theorem

2009-01-15T09:45:00.003+05:30

Hi there,

As promised earlier, I am starting a series of posts that will explore the brilliance of ancient Indian scholars. There are many discoveries that have been made by them, but have subsequently been wrongly attributed to western scholars and others. Most of this stuff is already available on various websites, but I'm trying to make a compilation of everything so that this blog can have a consolidated list of Ancient Indian Scientific discoveries.

Let's start with something that nobody escapes during his/her Schooling - Pythagoras Theorem.

I'll state it below graphically just to refresh your memory:

This theorem is used almost by everybody in some point of life. But do you know that it was stated by an Indian priest and Mathematician, Baudhayana, several centuries before the western mathematician?

Referring the Sulbha Sutra, circa 800 BC, we get the following verse:

"A rope stretched along the length of the diagonal produces an area which the vertical and horizontal sides make together."

This is the earliest explanation to what we familiarly refer to as the Pythagoras theorem. Though this discovery was made atleast 500 years before Pythagoras, the world still refers to this important mathematical axiom as the "Pythagorean" theorem rather than Baudhayana's theorem.

Baudhayana made several other important discoveries, some of which we use regularly, while others are used in higher level maths. I will list them out in the next post.

- Nikhil Mundra

http://www.gandhistamps.com/

http://www.nikhilloids.blogspot.com/

======================

Not sipping the Glass

2008-12-28T14:01:00.003+05:30

Hi there,

I've opened another blog to voice my views on current affairs and other stuff. Have a look:

http://www.nikhilloids.blogspot.com/

In most cases of throat infections, your tonsils get swollen up. At this point, most doctors suggest that you get them removed as they cause unnecessary pain and discomfort. They consider it another "useless" organ like the Appendix, and thus want to get it out of the way.

Rather than being a cause for concern, the tonsils actually act as a barrier. They prevent whatever infection you have incurred from entering your digestive system, thus keeping any serious problems at bay. But they get swollen up in return.

Now, you must have noticed that in India, it is considered bad manners to sip the glass/tumbler. Such a glass would be called "Jhutha", and become invalid for further use unless it is properly washed. The basic reason that will come to your mind is that why should someone drink from a used glass? But there is a deeper significance...

Though, the primary reason is to avoid any infections to be communicated from one person to the other, another factor that must be considered is the regular cleansing of your tonsils. When you drink water bending your neck and let it flow from top, it obviously flows over your tonsils and cleans them. Thus, it will wash away unneccasary food particles and maintain your throat in order.

- Nikhil Mundra

http://www.gandhistamps.com/

http://www.nikhilloids.blogspot.com/

=====================

Immortal Serpant/Snake Skin

2008-12-15T18:54:00.003+05:30

Hello Everyone,

Just came across a nice short story that shows how ancient Vedic Indians have described the periodical shedding and recurrence of a snake's skin.

Maharishi Kashyap had 2 wives - Kadru and Vinita. Vinita was the mother of the great eagle Garuda (Lord Vishnu's Vahana or vehicle), while Kadru was the mother of Serpants/Snakes. There was always a great rivalry between the two of them.

One day, Kadru won a wager, and seizing the oppurtunity, asked Vinita to work as her slave. Kadru wanted the nectar, or Amrit, in return for Vinita's freedom so that all her children, the serpants, could become immortal. Garuda, unable to bear his mother's plight, went to procure the Amrit for Kadru.

While bringing back the pot full of Amrit, Lord Indra, the King of the Devas, stole it back from him. In the struggle that ensued, a few drops of the divine potion fell on the grass on which the serpants were slithering...

Thus, the serpants/snakes are endowed with the capacity to cast off their old skin and grow a new one in place of it !

- Nikhil Mundra
www.gandhistamps.com
www.nikhilloids.blogspot.com

=====================

Why no Janehu/Upanayanam for women?

2008-12-07T12:31:00.006+05:30

Hi,

Something or the other has kept me delayed from posting for a long time. Just when I though exams were over and I could relax, college reopened after a blink-and-you'll-miss-it vacations ! So it took some time for me to settle in. Hopefully won't keep you waiting from now on...

Getting back to business, this post has been pending for a long time. As promised, I wanted to tell you why the Janehu/Upanayanam ceremony for the Sacred thread/Yagnopavitam is performed only for male children, and not for females...

One thing that every woman loves is jewellery. You can see it all over them, from head to toe. Women love to wear ornate pieces of jewellery, and this is especially true in the Indian subcontinent.

Now, if you observe keenly, the traditional jewellery that adorn a woman's ear consist not only the basic earrings, but also other pieces that are worn on different parts of the ear. This can be noticed during any important family function/festival/occasion, where it seems as if every lady tries to outdo the other by being elaborately dressed :-)

Jokes apart, as you will understand from the 2 previous posts on the same subject, applying pressure on our ears has an effect on the pituitary gland, which in turn facilitates the functioning of the urinary system.

So, even with the basic earrings, there is a certain effect on the urinary system, and it is more dominant when we take into account all the other jewellery on the other parts of the ear.

This is why there is no need of having the sacred thread/Yagnopavitam, as earrings and other pieces of jewellery on the ear carry out the same function...

- Nikhil Mundra

http://www.gandhistamps.com/

=======================

Janehu/Upanayanam - Reference links

2008-11-26T12:33:00.005+05:30

Hello Everyone,

Earlier last week, someone left a comment rubbishing the scientific explanation of the Janehu/Upanayanam ceremony. Though I have already replied via a comment, I thought a post would be helpful for everyone else to also understand.

Firstly, this scientific background of the Sacred Thread ceremony is a knowledge that has been silently passed down generations. I have heard it from my Grandfather, while he must have heard it from his.

I was also similarly shocked by this explanation. That's why I decided to do some research on this topic. And I hope to justify my views by giving the relevant references below.

As you will be aware, the pituitary gland is responsible for generating hormones that aid in the functioning of our urinary system and reproductive organs. Please refer below link:

http://www.umm.edu/endocrin/pitgland.htm

Now please refer another link which establishes the connection that applying pressure on the ear affects the pituitary gland, which in turn affects our urinary system:

http://books.google.com/books?id=QOk6FKYYNdcC&pg=PA146&lpg=PA146&dq=adh+kidney+ear+auricular+therapy&source=web&ots=6rxNDxctY2&sig=r56QO31fgQ35GUyftiWvDxN629Q&hl=en&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=1&ct=result

Please see below link that shows how urinary retention can be cured by applying pressure on the ears:

http://www.medicalacupuncture.org/aama_marf/journal/vol14_3/case1.html

Apart from this, various studies have been conducted confirming the link of the ears to the effective working of the urinary system, and also in helping patients getting relief from urinary stones/colics. In fact, there are various books based on Auricular therapy:

http://books.google.com/books?id=FaGIAkmOgCEC&pg=PA166&lpg=PA166&dq=urinary+bladder+ear&source=web&ots=WziAiV9hGo&sig=D90TqB4HfE-UC5FwrBOGP6XXdAA&hl=en&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=3&ct=result

http://www.springerlink.com/content/q48l7u90p311k5pq/

I hope all the above references clearly prove why the sacred thread benefits our urinary system.

It might be that the scientific practices have been woven around Gods and religion only so that they are performed correctly, and also because explaining the scientific background to everyone might not be feasible. This is why medicinal plants like Tulsi are worshipped and Temples have temple tanks to bring up the water table.

Further, during the past millenium, we have been invaded several times. Temples and places of learning have been ransacked, which leaves very little written proof of these findings by our ancient civilization.

If I, still a student less than 20 years of age can put forth such facts, I am sure that with deep research, we can collectively bring to surface many such gems in our tradition.

As I have been saying time and again through all my posts, all our ancient Hindu beliefs and practices have a deep scientific background. In fact, according to me, Hinduism is more of a "Way of Life", rather than a religion. This has been the common thread of all my posts. I talk more about science rather than focussing on the religious aspect.

- Nikhil Mundra
http://www.gandhistamps.com/

=======================

Balaram Vs Buddha - Who is the actual Avatar?

2008-11-20T18:28:00.004+05:30

Hi there,

First of all, sorry for not being able to post for a long time. Was busy earlier and now am in the midst of my 5th semester exams.

Many people have been writing in both via comments and directly about Lord Balaram being given a place in the Dasavathars instead of Lord Buddha (who founded the religion called Buddhism, and whose followers are called Buddhists). People feel Lord Buddha is a more popular Avatar of Lord Vishnu. Moreover, the presence of 2 Avatars simultaneously (Krishna and Balaram in the Mahabharat) adds to the confusion.

Though I have replied to the queries via comments, I'll make a post as well to justify my point of view.

I chose Lord Balaram as it tallies with the common thread linking the Dasavathars - Lord Vishnu descends on the earth to put an end to the tyrannical reign of a certain ruler, who is the actually the rebirth of one of his Dwarpals (watchmen) - Jai and Vijay.

If you remember, Lord Balaram was equally involved when Lord Krishna killed Kansa, and was also part of the Mahabharat War, which brought about the triumph of good over evil. Lord Buddha never indulged in any violent activities, leave alone killing someone. Thats what convinced me that the 8th Avatar was Lord Balaram rather than Lord Buddha.

In fact, Lord Krishna has overshadowed Lord Balaram to such an extent in the Mahabharat that we hardly consider the latter's role...

Please make do with this post for now. Will come back after the exams are done with the reason behind why women do not undergo the Janehu/Upanayanam ceremony (and do not wear the sacred thread) ASAP...

- Nikhil Mundra
http://www.gandhistamps.com/

Janehu/Upanayanam - The Sacred Thread ceremony

2008-10-18T15:22:00.006+05:30

Hello there,

The Janehu/Upanayanam ceremony is a very important tradition among the Brahmins. After the Namkaran (naming) ceremony, it is probably the next biggest occasion for the Brahmin boy. This ceremony marks the boy's entry into studies.

The Upanayanam ceremony takes place when the boy is around 7-8 years old. A sacred thread, called Yagnopavitam is placed around the left shouder of the boy. This thread is a composite of 3 threads, signifying Goddesses Gayatri (thought), Saraswati (word) and Savitri (deed) respectively. There is also a knot in the middle that signifies the unending Brahman.
A head priest whispers the Gayatri Mantra into the boy's ears, and he is formally initiated into education.

After this, the boy is supposed to tie the thread around his ear whenever he passes urine, so as to avoid getting it into contact with the excretory organs and thus getting contaminated. The thread is also changed once a year on the occasion of Shravani Purnima, the full moon day in the month of Shravan. This is also known as Avaani Avittam in Tamil, and coincides with the Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi festival of North India.

The below photo shows Brahmins taking part in the thread changing ceremony.

Well, so much so for the religious part of it. But what is the factual meaning behind this Janehu/Upanayanam ceremony? Let us explore.

Though the fact about keeping the thread pure by avoiding contact with the excretory organs is understandable, there is a hidden meaning in this practice.

It is a scientifically proven fact that a vein passing through the ear regulates the flow of urine. Therefore, when the boy wears the sacred thread around his ear while passing urine, he is unconciously helping his urinary system to regulate the urine flow, thus keeping his urinary system, bladder, etc. healthy and free of problems.

Further, we should take into account the fact that the Brahmins of olden days did not lead a very active lifestyle (i.e.) they were mostly conducting Pujas, where their primary role was to be seated and chant Mantras. In this scenario, it would have been difficult to keep their kidneys in top-shape. This is why this alternative system of Yagnopavitam (sacred thread) has been formulated.

This practice is not something that is to be done away with, as there are chances of this problem being carried on down the generations. This practice of Yagnopavitam can also be carried out in other castes - after all, keeping our urinary system healthy is not caste specific, right?

So why is this Janehu/Upanayanam ceremony not done for girls? Well, they have other ways of regulating their urine flow. More about that in the next post...

Nikhil Mundra

http://www.gandhistamps.com/

===================

Why Tulsi should not be chewed?

2008-10-06T11:42:00.005+05:30

Hi there,

There are various legends associated with the Tulsi plant, and therefore, I will just touch upon the most widespread one briefly before moving on to the scientific part:

Vrunda/Vrinda was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu, and was married to an Asura Jalandhar. To protect her Suhaag (Husband), she always prayed that no harm ever come to her husband, even though he was a tyrant. But when Jalandhar was finally killed in a battle with Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu took pity on her. On the request of the other Gods, he took Jalandhar's form and stayed with Vrinda. When she came to know this, Vrinda became enraged and cursed Lord Vishnu to turn into a stone (Saligram). She also fell dead, and a plant (Tulsi) emerged from her. Since then, the "Tulsi Vivah" has been carried on in Hindu homes, where a "Saligram" is married to a "Tulsi" plant. The below photo shows Lord Saligram (black stone), the Tulsi plant and a rare right-faced conch (Shankh).

Another belief is that the Tulsi plant is a manifestation of Lord Krishna's lover Radha. As Lord Krishna never marries Radha, the Tulsi plant is never brought inside the house, but is always kept in the courtyard.

Tulsi has various medicinal properties, and is probably the most important and frequently used herb in India. Tulsi is :

Antibiotic and Antifungal
Effective against Nausea
Fights Common Cold, Flu and Fever
Tulsi Juice highly effective against Cough
Efficient Antioxidant
Boosts Immunity

As Tulsi is considered the wife of Lord Vishnu, it is taboo in Indian homes to chew the leaves of this plant, though it can be digested as a whole or its juice can be taken.

The actual reason behind not chewing the Tulsi leaves is due to its mercuric content. German researchers have discovered that the leaves of the holy Tulsi plant contains traces of mercury. If the leaves are chewed, the mercury may damage the teeth. But when taken as a whole, the mercury is found beneficial for the digestive system.

This mercury content is now being used in anti-cancer drugs.

Thus, by weaving a legend around the Tulsi plant, the ancient Vedic Indians accomplished 2 things: firstly, the Tulsi plant would be worshipped in all homes, and thus its medicinal properties would be effectively utilised. Secondly, by calling it Lord vishnu's wife, it could not be chewed, thus preventing damage to our teeth.

Nikhil Mundra

www.gandhistamps.com

==================

Significance of Tree/Plant Worship

2008-09-22T11:19:00.014+05:30

Hello everyone,

Tree worship is an integral part of Hinduism. Underlying the central concept that God exists in eveything, trees are held in a special esteem as they provide food, oxygen, shelter, etc.

From ages, we have been worshipping certain kinds trees and plants and attributing each one of them to be the favourite of a particular God. But as is known, Hinduism never did anything without a solid scientific background, and this is valid in this regard also. Let us discuss the beneficial properties of each of these special sacred plants:

1) Tulsi (Basil - Ocimum basilicum):

On top of the list of our sacred plants is Tulsi or Basil, as it is known in the western world. It is believed to be Lord Vishnu's consort, and is thus an inseparable part of any Puja to Lord Vishnu.

Tulsi has several medicinal propeties, which include action against:

1)Common cold
2)Headaches
3)Malaria
4)Skin diseases
5)Respiratory disorders
6)Cholesterol
7)Kidney stones

Tulsi also sharpens memory and its Mercury content is being used in anti-cancer drugs.

It is no wonder that such a useful herb was held in high regard and worshipped by our ancient Vedic Indians.

2) Peepul (Sacred fig - Ficus religiosa):

The Peepul tree is said to have originated from the body of Lord Vishnu, and is thus very dear to him. In ancient texts, it was called the Kalpavriksha, or one that can fulfill all wishes. The medicinal usages are enlisted below:

1) Constipation

2) Mumps

3) Jaundice - controls flow of excess urine

In addition, the Peepul tree has the distinction of releasing oxygen for a larger period than other trees. That explains why it was placed in the centre of the villages, so that the surrounding atmosphere would be clean. It was also a fixture in temples, so that there would be a good supply of oxygen throughout the day for the visitors.

3) Bilva (Aegle marmelos):

The Bael or Bilva is a favourite of Lord Shiva, as it has 3 leaves which are similar to the 3 eyes that Lord Shiva has.

The Bael fruit can be used to treat:

1) Diarreoah and Dysentry

2) Asthma

3) Anemia

Thus, by associating religion with these plants, our ancient Vedic Indians tried to instil in us a reverance for them, so that we may protect, preserve and cultivate these benificial plants in the future. The entire legend of Tulsi herb and its scientific meaning will be carried in the next post.

Nikhil Mundra

http://www.gandhistamps.com/

=================

Why do Hindu Temples have Water Tanks?

2008-09-14T19:50:00.008+05:30

Temple Tanks are an essential part of every large Hindu temple. In fact, every village/town/city definitely has a temple that has a sizable temple tank. But why does every temple need to have one?

Conventional beliefs hold that the water of a temple tank is holy and has cleansing properties. The water acts as a cleanser, and people believe that it washes away their sins. So, it is an unwritten rule to take a dip in the temple tank before offering prayers to the presiding deity, thus purifying onself.

Also, the during the festive season, the deity is taken aboard a boat and given a trip around the tank.

But in actuality, the water tanks serve as a useful reservoir to help people tide over water scarcity. It should be noted that any such large area of stored water adds to the water table. So by installing a tank in each temple, the entire surrounding area's water level is significantly improved.

Further, water in India is largely dependant on the monsoons. In case the rains fail, the people can look upto these temple tanks to fulfill their basic needs.

What an ingenious way our ancient Vedic Indians had to utilise the rainwater! Giving the reason a religious background paved the way for its construction...

But these days we find most of these tanks in a state of neglect. They are either dried up or poorly maintained, which leads to their contamination.

Water scarcity is not a problem faced only by people of the past, it is something we face everyday. If we can revive this ancient system of increasing the water table level, we might not have to face acute water shortage in the future...

Nikhil Mundra

http://www.gandhistamps.com/

====================

Why do we fast on Ekadesi days?

2008-08-29T18:05:00.012+05:30

Hi,

This post is about the importance of fasting on Ekadasi (11th day of moon cycle).

Now, it is an age old practice for Indians to observe a fast (vrat) on Ekadasi days. Ekadasi is 11th day of the moon cycle, both from the full moon and from the new moon (equidistant).

I came across an interesting legend from the Padma Purana, which describes the relevance of Ekadasi. I am giving a brief description below:

Jaimini Rishi, a renowned sage, once became inquisitive about the Ekadasi vrat. He asked the great sage Vyas about the same. Vyas said that initially, when the world was manifested, Lord Vishnu created a demonic creature (Papa-Purush) that was the embodiment of all types of sins. This was done in order to punish all evil human beings. Subsequently, he also created Yamaraj, so that anyone who sinned (signs of Papa-Purush in him) would be punished and sent to Yamalok.
On a visit to Yamlok, Lord Vishnu noticed the miseries of the people living there, and had pity on them. He created Ekadesi from his own being, and decided that anyone undertaking the Ekadasi vrat would be cleansed of his sins.
Papa-Purush became alarmed. He immediately went to Lord Vishnu and pleaded that on Ekadasi day, he had nowhere to hide. So the supreme God told him that any type of grain would provide a safe haven to him on Ekadasi.

According to scientific research, it is known that the air pressure on the earth varies to extreme limits on both the new moon (Amavasya) and the full moon (Purnima) day. This is because of the orbital path combination of the sun, moon and earth.

This can be observed by the change in the nature of the tidal waves on the new moon and full moon days. The waves are very high and rough, but from the next day onwards, the waves become calm, an indication that the pressure has also receded.

Now, based on this fact, the significance of Ekadasi fasting can be explained in 2 ways:

1) According to science, it takes about 3-4 days for the food that we eat today to reach our brain (for the brain to understand the food intake). Now, if we eat light/fast on Ekadasi days, that intake will reach the brain correspondingly on the New moon/full moon day.

On both of these days, the earth pressure is at its maximum, thus leading to imbalance in everything, including ones thought process.

So, if the input to the brain is at a minimum, the chances of the brain indulging in any wayward activity due to the high pressure imbalance also becomes minimum.

2) Another explanation for Ekadasi fasting is that compared to any other day of the moon cycle, atmospheric pressure is lowest on Ekadasi days. Thus, this is the best time to fast and cleanse the bowel system. If we fast on any other day, the high pressure/strain may damage our system. Thus, it is advisable that after fasting on Ekadasi, on the immediate next day (Dwadasi), we should get up early and eat as soon as possible.

As per both the above theories, the fasting practice on Ekadasi days has a strong scientific base. People who observe the fast are asked to stay away from all types of grains, and to have a light diet of nuts, milk, fruits, etc.

It is amazing how the ancient Vedic Indians devised this method to keep ourselves fit and free from any negative influences ! The relevance of the fast has been imbibed into a story in the Puranas so that it can be easily carried on from one generation to the other...

Till next time,

Nikhil Mundra
http://www.gandhistamps.com/

=======================

Dasavathars Common link

2008-08-24T14:15:00.005+05:30

Hello Everyone,

An addition to my last post on the Kalki Avatar. One of the most famous verses of the Mahabharat goes like this:

Yadaa Yadaa hi Dharmasya
Glanirbhavati Bharata
Abhyuttanam Adharmasya
Tadaatmaanam Srujamyaham
Paritranaya Sadhunaam
Vinaashaya ch Dushkritaam
Dharmasansthapanarthaya
Sambhavami Yuge Yuge

These lines have been spoken by Lord Krishna. The literal meaning is that whenever Adharma (injustice) reaches a particular limit and righteousness (Adharma) is at stake, I (Lord Krishna) come down to protect the weak poeple and destroy evil, thereby re-establishing goodness on the earth. This is the common thread linking all the Dasavathars of Lord Vishnu, as explained in my earlier posts.

Nikhil Mundra
www.gandhistamps.com

Kalki Avatar

2008-08-15T10:57:00.005+05:30

First of all, wishing everyone a very happy Independence Day !

Now posting the last Avatar in the list of Lord Vishnu's Dasavathars, the Kalki Avatar.

The Kalki Avatar is supposed to be the most powerful among all the Dasavathars. What makes it more intriguing is that incarnation has not yet taken place, a fact that adds to its enigma !

The earliest reference to the Kalki Avatar is found in the India's great epic, the Mahabharat. Rishi Markandeya tells Yudhishtir, the seniormost Pandava, that Kalki will be born to Brahmin parents. He would excel in academics, sports and warfare, and thus become a very intelligent and powerful young man.

His arrival is stipulated at a time when the earth is engulfed in crisis because of a tyrannical and powerful ruler. Kalki Bhagwan is said to be mounted on a strikingly beautiful White Horse, and is most often picturised in the foreground of a dark sky. This symbolises his coming at a time when darkness (evil) is the order of the day, and he is the saviour to rid the world of its sufferings. This is similar to the Parashuram avatar, where Lord Vishnu killed the atrocious Kshatriya rulers.

It should be noted that the common thread among all of Lord Vishnu's Avatars is that he always arrives when his devotees/people have been suffering at the hands of an evil/vain ruler. A legend that gives credence to this fact is that once, Lord Vishnu's Dwarpal's (watchmen), Jai and Vijay, insulted a group of sages who had come to pay the Lord a visit. The sages cursed them to be reborn as tyrannical Asura kings on earth, and get Moksha (salvation) only when they are killed at the hands of Lord Vishnu. Thus, whenever Jai and Vijay are reborn as kings, they create such a unbearable state of anarchy that Lord Vishnu takes the form of a saviour and frees them from their earthly bond.

The Kalki Avatar is the most eagerly awaited one, more so because it will signify the cleansing of the world from all its sorrows that have been accumulated for many millennia. He is to arrive at the end of Kalyug, the dark age, and will mark the beginning of the Sat Yug. According to calculations, there are still many years left for that to happen (The Kalyug extends for a period of 432000 years, and it has just started). When we have such advanced military technology today, it will be interesting to see (though we may not, unless we do not manage to attain salvation by then, and are still caught in the rebirth cycle) what kind of weapons Kalki Avatar utilises.

With the Kalki Avatar, the series on Lord Vishnu's Dasavathars has come to an end. As per the below list, the Kalki Avatar perfectly completes the scientific aspect of the Dasavathars. After Lord Krishna, who was a military strategist, there is a long gap until we find the Ultra modern Kalki Avatar, who is the saviour of the earth and annihilator of evil. The complete chain of the Dasavathars is as follows:

Matsya (fish-aquatic) -> Kurma (tortoise-amphibian) -> Varaaha (boar-mammal) -> Narasimha (half animal - half man) -> Vamana (pygmy-human) -> Parasurama (early man) -> Ram (righteous man) -> Balaram (farmer/villager) -> Krishna (modern day military strategist) -> Kalki (Ultra Modern/High Tech Warrior)

From the next post onwards, I will be focussing on the knitty-gritties of day to day rituals, beliefs and traditions of Vedic life that have a deep scientific meaning. Also, the various inventions and discoveries made by ancient Vedic India's scholars and scientists will be featured. So keep reading,

Nikhil Mundra
http://www.gandhistamps.com/

Krishna Avatar

2008-08-03T15:20:00.003+05:30

Had exams in college, and coming back after a long hiatus. As the Avatars of Balaram and Krishna occur simultaneously, I will combine both of them in a single post:

The story of Balaram and Krishna forms part of possibly India's biggest epic, the Mahabharat. It is quite a long one, and I will be describing only the parts related to these 2 Avatars of Lord Vishnu. Apart from this, there are innumerous stories where Lord Krishna plays a role. In fact, out of the 10 Avatars, the most significant in modern times is that of Krishna.

Krishna was the eighth child of Devaki and Vasudev. His maternal uncle (Mama), Kansa heard a prophecy that he would be killed by his sister Devaki's eighth child, and went on a mad spree killing all her first six children. Lord Vishnu, realising the situation, arranged for the 7th child (Balaram) to be transferred into the womb of Rohini (Nanda's 1st wife), and requested Goddess Maya to be substituted for him in Devaki's womb. The 8th child, Krishna, was carried by Vasudev to Gokul, and placed next to Yashoda (Nanda's 2nd wife), to be adopted by them.

Lord Krishna was a very naughty child, and was very fond of butter (he is called Makahnchor - Butter stealer) in his childhood. He was also very naughty, and indulged in all sorts of pranks along with his group of friends, of whom he was the obvious leader. He showed signs of his divineness in his childhood itself, when he felled the demonness Putna, liberated 2 Gandharva princes, and killed the evil serpant, Kaliya. He lifted the huge Govardhan Parvat to protect the people from the heavy rains. One day, when his mother Yashoda caught him eating mud and asked him to open his mouth, he showed her the entire cosmos inside it! Krishna also went on to kill his evil uncle, Kansa, and reinstated Kansa's father as the King of Mathura.

On the other hand, his elder brother Balaram was a very soft-spoken and reserved individual with great intellect and humility. He was called "Dau Bhaiya" by Krishna. It is also believed that Balaram was an incarnation of Shesha Naga, Lord Vishnu's 1000 headed serpant. It is said that Sesha-Nag, who took the form of Lakshman in Ramayan, was unhappy with his projection as an angry person, and so the Lord allowed him to have a better profile in the Mahabharat ! Lord Balaram is always depicted with a plough in his hand, a symbol of his humble village-agrarian background.

At the same time, the Kingdom of Hastinapur was going through testing times. The blind King Dhritarashtra's evil son Duryodhan, eldest of the 101 Kauravas, had defeated his cousins, the Pandavas (5 brothers - Yudhistir, Bhim, Arjun, Nakul and Sahadev), children of Dhritarashtra's brother Pandu in a game of Chaupad (ancient Ludo) several times. Lord Krishna saved Draupadi from being humiliated in the court by replenishing her Saree when Duryodhan's brother Dushashan started removing it. The Kauravas sentenced the Pandavas to 14 years in exile, out of which the last year was to be spent in hiding. In this timespan, the former unsuccessfully tried to eliminate the latter several times.

After the said period of 14 years, the Pandavas decided to fight back, and with a small army, challenged the Kauravas, known famously as the Kurukshetra war. It was here that Lord Krishna played a vital role, being the chief strategist on the Pandavas side. He also became the charioteer of Arjun, the ace archer, and guided him throughout the war. When Arjun hesitates in shooting at Bhishma, the great patriarch of the Hastinapur dynasty, Lord Krishna delivers an elaborate address about the rights and wrongs of life, which has come to be called the "Bhagwad Gita", and is Hinduism's holiest book. The above photo shows Lord Krishna showing his Viraat Roop (Full Form of Lord Vishnu) in the middle of the battle.

Finally, when Pandavas win the war, Lord Krishna announces Yudhistir as the new King of Hastinapur. Krishna is said to have left earth for his heavenly abode when a fisherman, mistaking the Lord's foot for a beautiful fish, hit it with an arrow.

Now, coming to the part of how all this fits into our evolution process. First of all, both the brothers are brought up in a rural background. As Balaram is always featured with a plough, it is evident that he represents the farming community, which was the next significant stage of human evolution.

Krishna, on the other hand, is the complete modern-day strategist, who believes in bending rules if that can benefit the situation. Though the Pandavas are reluctant to fight against their brothers, the Kauravas and a host of other people whom they look upon to as mentors (Bhishma, Drona, etc.), Krishna says that to win the war, killing these people is necessary. Yudhistir, who never lies, is made to tell Drona that Ashwatthama has died, without specifying that it was actually an elephant and not his son. Duryodhana, who became all powerful by getting the rays from his mother Gandhari's eyes, was vulnerable only near his thighs. This was exploited by Krishna, who, seeing that Bhim was losing to Duryodhana, indicated him to attack the thighs in the middle of the duel. This is similar to the modern day cut-throat boardroom member, who goes all out in achieving his goal, and where the ends justify the means.

So, the process of evolution till now goes like this:

Matsya (fish-aquatic) -> Kurma (tortoise-amphibian) -> Varaaha (boar-mammal) -> Narasimha (half animal - half man) -> Vamana (pygmy-human) -> Parasurama (early man) -> Ram (righteous man) -> Balaram (farmer/villager) -> Krishna (modern day military strategist)

So, with this post, the 8th and 9th Avatars of Lord Vishnu are completed. The next post will be about the final avatar of Lord Vishnu, Kalki, who is yet to make an appearance on earth. Till next time,

Nikhil Mundra
www.gandhistamps.com

Ram Avatar

2008-07-13T16:39:00.003+05:30

Lord Vishnu's 7th Avatar on planet earth, that of Lord Ram, is elucidated below:

King Dasrath of Ayodhya was childless, with all 3 of his wives not being blessed. Then he performed a Yagna, through which he obtained a magic potion that, when drunk by his wives, would help them bear children. The eldest of the 4 sons born to him was Ram. The 3rd son, Lakshman, is said to be the incarnation of Lord Vishnu's Seshanag (snake on which he rests in the milky ocean). That is why he is portrayed as a hot-tempered person, ready to give his life for his elder brother.

Lord Ram was a genial person and an obedient son, who displayed qualities of valour in his early days. He won the hand of Sita, the daughter of King Janaka, in a Swayamvar (contest), where he strung the bow of Lord Shiva, and also broke it. It is here when Lord Parasurama, the 6th Avatar of Lord Vishnu, confronts Lord Ram, but is humbled by the Lord's prowess.

When Lord Ram is to be crowned the new King of Ayodhya, Dasratha's 2nd wife, Kaikeyi is misguided by her servant Manthra into thinking that her son, Bharat, will become powerless. So she takes advantage of an old promise by her husband, and orders Lord Ram to be sent to Vanvaas (living in the jungle) for 14 years. Lord Ram does not question her decision, but simply takes the blessing of his parents and starts his journey. Sita and Lakshman insist on accompanying him. Incidentally, 14 years is also the term of a life sentence in modern day India.

One day in the forest, Soorpanakha, sister of Lanka's king Ravana, fell in love with Lord Ram. But her advances were nipped in the bud by Lakshman, who cut her nose. This angered Ravana, who, in the disguise of a a Brahmin beggar, kidnapped Sita. Then, Lord Ram meets Hanuman, who becomes his loyal devotee, and together with the monkey-king Sugriva, launches an attack on Lanka to get back his wife. The above photo shows Lord Ram flanked by Sita and Lakshman, and he is seen blessing Hanuman.

This entire episode, as described in the Ramayan, has been supported by several places found in modern day Sri Lanka. These will be detailed in another post later.

After defeating Ravana and making his younger brother Vibhishana king of Lnaka, Lord Rama returns to Ayodhya to a joyous welcome and is crowned King. He then starts his journey of being an able administrator and a righteous King. Even today, Ramrajya is synonymous with "Golden Rule", and Lord Ram is referred to as "Maryada Purshottam", or Ultimate Righteous Person.

So, from this Avatar of Lord Vishnu, that of Lord Ram, we come across a refined, cultured, simple, upright and righteous human being. He belong sto an era when promises were kept and where justice was meted out to everyone. This follows the crude Avatar of Lord Parasurama, and thus the modern evolution process is justified:

Matsya (fish-aquatic) -> Kurma (tortoise-amphibian) -> Varaaha (boar-mammal) -> Narasimha (half animal - half man) -> Vamana (pygmy-human) -> Parasurama (early man) -> Ram (righteous man)

This Avatar is followed by Lord Krishna, epitome of the modern day strategist and cunning planner. Till next time,

Nikhil Mundra
www.gandhistamps.com

Parasurama Avatar

2008-07-04T19:03:00.006+05:30

Moving on Lord Vishnu's 6th Avatar, that of the warrior Parasurama:

There are many legends surrounding Lord Parasurama that extend through several ages, especially becuase he is considered an immortal being.

Parasurama was the great-grandson of Maharishi Bhragu. He was a Brahmin who was blessed to be born with Kshatriya qualities. He learnt all the arts of warfare directly from Lord Shiva after performing tough penance.

His father, Jamdagni, once hosted the Haihaya King Sahasrarjun (Arjun with 1000 hands), when he fed him and his army with the help of the divine cow Kamadhenu. Awestruck by its qualities, the king demanded the cow from the Rishi. When he would not part with it, Sahasrarjun snatched the cow and destroyed the ashram. When he came to know about this, Parashurama killed the king, because of which Sahasrarjun's sons killed Jamdagni.

When Parasurama returned to his ashram, he found his mother crying. She explained how her husband had been brutally murdered while he was meditating, and beat her chest 21 times in anguish. Seething with anger, Parasurama promised to rid the earth of the tyrannical Kshatriya Kings 21 times. After completing his vow and thus becoming the king of the world, he donated the earth to Brahmins.

In the Ramayan, Parasurama appears during Sita's Swayamvar, after hearing the earth-shattering noise created when Lord Ram (Vishnu's 7th Avatar - more on that later) break's Lord Shiva's bow. As a boon, Lord Ram asks for Lord Parasurama's agression, thus ridding him of it.

In the Mahabharat, Parasuram is the instructor/mentor of Bhisma, Drona and Karna. He curses Karna to forget all his military knowledge at a crucial point so that the Pandavas win the war and the world is saved.

Now for the science part of all this. We see that this avatar resembles an early man, who is brutal and warrior-like, lives a nomadic life and is barbaric in nature. He has developed from the pygmy sized-human (Vamana) form to a normal human being. Thus, this rightly fits into the evolution process, the chain-link of which is detailed below:

Matsya (fish-aquatic) -> Kurma (tortoise-amphibian) -> Varaaha (boar-mammal) -> Narasimha (half animal - half man) -> Vamana (pygmy-human) -> Parasurama (early man)

The next avatar is that of Lord Ram, the gentle and genial king who is most righteous and works towards the well-being of his subjects.

- Nikhil Mundra
www.gandhistamps.com

Vamana Avatar

2008-06-22T16:38:00.002+05:30

Now, let me tell you about Lord Vishnu's 5th Avatar, that of a Dwarf - Vamana:

Lord Bali was a pious and generous Asure King, known for his grand Yagnas and gifts to Brahmanas thereafter. Incidentally, his grandfather, Prahalada, was the young devotee of Lord Vishnu during the Narasimha Avatar. As his prowess grew, he became a threat to the Devas. After a while, Lord Indra was forced to abdicate the heaven becuase of him. This upset Indra's mother, Aditi. She, along with Rishi Kashyap, her husband, prayed to Lord Vishnu to restore the glory of the Devas.

As usual, Lord Vishnu intervened. He was born as a son to Aditi, and then, taking the form of a Pygmy or Dwarf priest, he went to King Bali's Yagna. There, when it was time to distribute gifts to the Brahmans, Lord Vishnu asked for land enough to cover 3 paces of his walk. Amazed by the humble request, King Bali readily agreed to fulfil Vamana's wish. Meanwhile, the Asura Guru, Shukracharya, undeerstood that the pygmy was no normal being, but was Lord Vishnu himself. Though he warned his protigy, being the righteous person that he was, King Bali refused to go back on his word.

Almost suddenly, the dwarf priest grew so large in size that the earth was dwarfed by him! With his first step, he covered the entire earth. Then, with the next step, he covered the heavens. Now, looking down on Bali, he told him that there was no space left to put his third foot. Bali, humbled by then, asked the Lord to place his foot on his head, so that he may attain salvation, a suggestion which Lord Vishnu accepted.

So, we say that in this Avatar, Lord Vishnu has evolved from an animal into a human being, albeit in the dwarfed stage. A brief summary of the Avatars is listed below:

Matsya (fish-aquatic) -> Kurma (tortoise-amphibian) -> Varaaha (boar-mammal) -> Narasimha (half animal - half man) -> Vamana (pygmy-human)

This is supported by the modern theory that man has evolved from animals, and it is known that early man was short in stature.

Wait for the next post when Lord Vishnu incarnates as Parashurama...

Narsimha Avatar

2008-06-15T13:46:00.003+05:30

Sorry for the delay in the posts, here is the next Incarnation of Lord Vishnu - the Narsimha Avatar:
Legend has it that the evil Asura king Hiranyakashyap wanted to become the master of the universe. He thus did a severe penance, and pleased with him, Lord Brahma decided to give him a boon. The Asura asked for invincibility, but Brahma said that that was beyond his power. So,Brahma gave him an alternative - that he could not be killed either on land or in air, in the day or in the night, by man nor an animal, and neither outside nor inside any building.

Armed with this boon of near-invincibility, the Asura began to cause havoc among the 3 worlds. Soon, he seized power from Indra, and as usual, all the Devas sought help from Lord Vishnu.

Also, as fate would have it, Hiranyakashyap's son, Prahalad, was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu, much to his father's agony, who had by then proclaimed himself as God. To destroy his son's faith, Hiranyakashyap asked him where his Vishnu was. When Prahalad replied everywhere, the Asura king slammed a pillar to show him that God was not there. But to his amazement, Lord Vishnu emerged out of the pillar taking a very unique form.

The being, Narsimha, was having the head of a lion and the body of a human being (Nar=Man, Simha=Lion). He took the Asura king right at the palace gate (neither inside/outside building) and placed him in his lap (neither in air/land). As it was twilight and the Lord was neither a man nor an animal, all the conditions for the death of Hiranyakashyap were satisfied. Thus, the Lord killed the evil Asura with his claws, and brought an end to his rule.

Thus, the Avatars till now have been:

Matsya (fish-aquatic) -> Kurma (tortoise-amphibian) -> Varaaha (boar-mammal) -> Narsimha (half animal - half man).

Thus, looking at the Avatar from the scientific point of view, the Lord is on his way to become a full-fledged human being, and has started evolving from the animal stage.

Watch out for the Vamana Avatar next...

Varaha Avatar

2008-06-05T09:55:00.002+05:30

Next, we move on to Varaha Avatar, in which Lord Vishnu takes the form of a boar. The legend goes like this:

The asura Hiranyaksh's drastic growth was becoming a cause of worry for the Devas. He had received a boon from Brahma, and was now busy proving his dominance over the 3 worlds.

While Brahma was asleep, the asura took Mother Earth (Bhoodevi) along with all the Vedas and sacred texts, and pushed them to the bottom of the ocean. All the devas went to Lord Vishnu to request his help in getting the earth back. It was then that the Lord assumed the form of a boar, to lift Bhoodevi out of the seas.

In the meantime, Hiranyaksh challenged the God of the Oceans, Varuna, to a combat. Varuna, citing old age, recommended Lord Vishnu as the only worthful opponent to the Asura, knowing very well that he would meet his nemesis. So Hiranyaksha went to challenge the boar, wo was busy restoring Bhoodevi. After placing her, the Lord killed Hiranyaksha, thus ridding the world of his evil-doings.

So, in the Varaha Avatar, Lord Vishnu assumes the form of a Boar, which is a mammal. If we refer to the previous Avatars:

Mathsya (Fish-Aquatic) -> Kurma (Tortoise-Amphibian) -> Varaha (Boar-Mammal)

Thus, the concept of evolution is elucidated. In the next post, Lord Vishnu will be mid-way in the evolution process, as he will take the form of the half-animal, half-man God, Narsimha.

Kurma Avatar

2008-05-28T11:26:00.004+05:30

Now, let us move on to the next Avatar of Lord Vishnu - the Kurma Avatar:

There was a time when our earth was under tormoil. The Asuras had got the upper hand and were threatening to take over the earth by vanquishing the Devas.

When the Devas, lead by Lord Indra went to Lord Vishnu to find a way out of this situation, the Lord suggested that they churn the divine ocean. By doing so, they would get the pot of nectar (Amrit), drinking which, they would become invincible and defeat the Asuras. But the Devas knew that they alone could never churn the ocean, and had to take the help of the Asuras.

They decided to offer half the nectar to the Asuras in return for their help in churning the ocean as a bait. The gullible Asuras readily agreed. The ocean was churned with the help of Mount Mandera as the churner, and the Devas and Asuras pulled the mountain with the King of the serpants, Vasuki, as a rope.

It became evident that the churning was impossible as the mountain kept sinking. At this moment, Lord Vishnu intervened. By assuming the form of a huge tortoise, he went under the ocean supported the mountain on his back.

Various items appeared as a result of the ocean being churned, including the deadly poison Halahala, the divine cow Kamadhenu, the divine tree Kalpavriksha, etc. Finally, the divine physician Dhanvantari appeared with the pot of Amrit.

A fight ensued about who will get the nectar first. Again, Lord Vishnu intervened. By becoming a beautiful Apsara Mohini, he suggested that half of the nectar be distributed among the Devas first, while the Asuras would have the remaining half. The Asuras fell for her charm, and the Devas started getting the nectar from Mohini.

Meanwhile, 1 of the Asuras realised that they would never have the nectar. He changed his form and lined up with the Devas. Lord Surya (Sun) and Lord Chandra (Moon) informed this to Lord Vishnu, who tried to kill him with his Sudarshan Chakra. Thus, both parts of his body remained alive despite their being separated, as he had drunk the nectar partially. The head is called Rahu, while the body is referred to as Ketu, and it is believed that the eclipses occur when Rahu-Ketu take their revenge on the sun and moon (more on that in a later post).

So, it is observed that in the previous incarnation (Mathsya), the Lord became a Fish, while in this avatar, he is a Tortoise. Thus, from an aquatic creature, the next stage of an amphibian has been achieved. This is what the modern evolution theory proposes.

Mathsya (Fish-Aquatic) -> Kurma (Tortoise-Amphibian)

Watch out for the Lord becoming a Mammal in the next post...

Mathsya Avathar

2008-05-20T10:06:00.005+05:30

Hello Again,

The first Avathar of Lord Vishnu was the Mathsya Avathar, where he takes the form of a fish, as illustrated below:

Legend has it that when the evil asura king Hayagriva's tyrannies reached an unbearable limit, the Lord took the form of a small fish and entered the kundalam (water bowl) of the pious King Satyavrata (Manu). The king took the fish into his shelter, but was amazed to see it grow abnormally. He shifted it to a larger vessel, then to a pond, but finally decided that only the ocean could accomadate it. It was then that the Lord revealed his true form.

The Lord said that the time had come for the next cycle of creation. He directed Manu to assemble one example of all species on earth, and along with the seven great sages (Saptrishi) and the king of serpants, Vasuki. There would be a huge flood within a week, enough to engulf the earth, but the Lord would steer them through it.

As promised, there was a massive flood, and the Lord killed Hayagriva. Then, he sent of huge boat to Manu, who boarded it along with the various species of plants ans animals that he had collected. Vasuki served as a rope to tie the boat to the fish's horn. Thus, Lord Vishnu eliminated evil and paved the way for a new cycle of life form to flourish on the earth.

It has been proved by science that the earliest life forms on earth were aquatic. Thus, with this 1st Avathar of Lord Fishnu, the process of human evolution begins...

Lord Vishnu's Dasavathars

2008-05-16T09:40:00.004+05:30

Hello Everyone,

I am starting off with one of the most famous legends of Hinduism - the Dasavathar of Lord Vishnu, the supreme God and the Preserver of this earth. The word "Dasavathar" means 10 Incarnations (Das - 10, Avathar - Incarnation).

The 10 Avathars are as listed below:

Mathsya
Kurma
Varaaha
Narsimha
Vamanaa
Parasurama
Ram
Balaram
Krishna
Kalki

In the coming week, I will be detailing about each of the Avathars, and how the entire process of evolution (credited in the modern world to Charles Darwin) has been elucidated by Hinduism many many millenia ago.