Kalpavriksha KamadhenuValuable information on Hindu Festivals, Slokas, Prayers, Dasara Songs, Vegetarian cooking, and many other relevant topics can be found here.
Few keys dates to remember in April 2023. Please check dates in your local calendar.
Dana to be given during Vaishaka Masa and its benefits. As per Uttaradi Mutta Panchanga. Some are very easy to donate. See what’s feasible and suits your budget and donate accordingly.
Do these donations from April 20th – May 20th.
ದಾನ– Dana
ಫಲ – Benefits
ಜಲದಾನ – Water
ಹಲ್ಲಿ ಜನ್ಮ ನಿವೃತ್ತಿ – Lizard birth retirement (😃). You must have heard your Mom or Grandmother say give them water, if no you will become a Lizard.
ಹಾಸಿಗೆ – Bed
ಸರ್ವಭೋಗ – All benefits
ಚಾಪೆ – Mat
ಸಂಸಾರದಿಂದ ಮುಕ್ತಿ – Freedom from samsara
ಕಂಬಳಿ – Blanket
ಅಪಮೃತ್ಯು ಪರಿಹಾರ – Prevents accidental deaths
ವಸ್ತ್ರ – Clothes
ಪೂರ್ಣಾಯು – Full life
ಕುಸುಮ-ಕುಂಕುಮ – Kusuma-Kumkum
ರಾಜ್ಯಪದವೀ – Live like a king?
ತಾಂಬೂಲ – Tambula
ಸಾರ್ವಭೌಮಪದವೀ – Sarvabhumapadavi
ನಾರಿಕೇಲ – Coconut
ಸಪ್ತಜನ್ಮವಿಪ್ರತ್ವ – Saptajanmavipratva
ಮಜ್ಜಿಗೆ – Buttermilk
ವಿದ್ಯಾಧನ ಪ್ರಾಪ್ತಿ – Getting an education is a blessing
On the auspicious occasion of Sri Rama Navami, I am delighted to welcome a dear friend of mine, Divyashree to Kalpavriksha Kamadhenu as our newest editor!
Her interest towards Hindu culture/traditions, Indian classical music, dwaita philosophy, and the nectar of Haridasa literature will enable us to creatively share n learn and exchange experiences to inspire and mutually benefit everyone on the path of sadhane.
I’m excited to collaborate with Divyashree to create even more valuable, inspiring, and engaging content for our lovely community of KalpavrikshaKamadhenu, who are now my extended family.
With our new editor on board, here’s to a bright future for our blog! Please join me in welcoming Divyashree as she joins me in multiplying forces to inspire, scale and create a fulfilling impact that matters the most to this community. Happy to have you!
Let’s take a moment to know a little bit about our new editor before I release her first post.
Q1: Welcome to our blog! Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
Divyashree: First of all, I am so blessed to be the chosen one to get associated with you and Kamadhenu Kalpavrusha. Thank you ! Reminds me of the Ugabhoga tande nee tande naa bande.. By his grace, I am looking forward to our divine partnership. I am a 3rd-generation military kid, born in a conservative family; I hail from the royal city of Mysore and was brought up in a culturally rich-n-diverse background. Currently, I am pursuing Carnatic music vocal lessons and research work in HariDasa sahitya. I devote a majority of my time to support and drive global efforts and causes that celebrate and cherish Indian traditions and ancient values. This continues to give me utmost happiness and fulfillment and is something beyond measure.
Q2: What drew you to this blog and made you want to join our team?
Divyashree: tell me one person who has never visited your blog… no ‘our’ blog (humbly). I call this blog as a digital madhwapedia and I mean it. 🙏🏻. Even though you say this blog is 16+ years old, the emotions, memories, rituals, and experience that you have brought out is worth several generations and is easily 100+ years of collective wealth of knowledge. I am one of the mere drops in the ocean. Your invitation was so compelling that I couldn’t resist like Karshati iti KrishNah.
Q3: How did you first become interested in Haridasa compositions? What inspired you?
Divyashree: I personally draw inspiration from Sri Prahaladarajaru. When he can be engaged in constant and purest devotion towards SriHari despite hostile environment and life threatening moments, then why can’t we? He inspired me to believe and have trust in Srihari at all times and then gradually, I started paying attention to what I was listening or singing. And as I started spending time to genuinely understand why do we do what do we do-it could be a ritual, it could be lyrics in the song or pravachana, I started developing interest. This was a game changer and helped me transform in a big way. I am truly astonished as to how our stalwarts were able to use local language like Kannada to communicate such complex philosophical concepts with such ease and clarity so many moons ago.
Q5: How do you think modern technology and the internet have affected the spread and accessibility of Haridasa music?
Divyashree: In ancient times, our haridasa stalwarts and saints/saint-poets used to visit every door to personally spread the teachings – spiritual, social, and human reforms. The community, especially women and the kids used to follow or join hands to drive this to broader outreach. Now let’s see what we are trying to do these days, we are using digital mediums to preserve the literature, we are using online methods to record and spread the word ( messaging/teachings) and we have switched from door to door to mobile to mobile 😄. Bottom line is the attempt to preserve, spread, and transform is still being done. The downside is, being able to maintain quality and authenticity especially in the pace in which we are growing. What we are doing is modern way of spreading the word/ essence using digital platforms and capabilities.
Q6: How do you think Haridasa compositions can be made more accessible to younger generations who may not be as familiar with this form of music?
Divyashree: Yes, absolutely. But before that, first thing we need is, to build awareness and spark interest. As simple as food, one prefers to taste a sample or a bite before determining whether he or she likes it or not. And this treasure or divine nectar is beyond measure and unless you make people ( current and next gen) aware of something like this exists and build awareness, the interest levels will not be developed and even if they do, that might not last long. And we should use our digital platforms to first build awareness, show them the value, and then get them to acquire taste and get glued to it forever to pass on the legacy.
Q7: What are some of your goals for this blog in the coming months?
Divyashree: Well, you have such a great setup already. By Sri Harivayu gurugalu and Rayaru’s grace, I wish to collaborate with you to strive for the following:
a. Aspire to Inspire all generations to value what we all inherited in form of dwaita and haridasa sahitya through this blog and other avenues
b. Put it to practice: we all are in our journey of sadhane, let’s start small and realize/believe that HE will get it done. I am 1000% sure, he will guide and navigate us through this celestial journey. All we need to do is to keep the first step and trust him for lives to come.
c.Amplify the Impact: Use this medium to share experiences that describe why we do what we do- so we transform ourselves as committed ambassadors to carry this divine legacy forward to the next generations to come.
Life is too short to be selfish especially when it comes to bhagavad Bhakti and sandhane. Through this effort, if each one of us can be generous enough to contribute to the cause, it would go a long way.
This is quite a huge song from the book I have. 41 paragraphs. But each and every paragraph conveys such amazing meaning. A very rare composition. Even though I take screen shots from the book, upload to Google one drive and convert to Google docs, copying again, translating to English and plain English takes quite a time. But the end is well worth it. The internet has these full lyrics and anyone can copy the same.
I have posted just 21 paragraphs since this has almost 41 paragraphs. The remaining ones also have the same tune.
Composer : Sri Varadesha Vittala Dasaru
Book Ref : Samagra Dasa Sahitya Vol26
ಶ್ರೀರಾಮ ಜಯರಾಮ ಜಯ ಜಯತು ರಾಮ ಶ್ರೀರಾಮ ಜಯರಾಮ ಜಯ ಜಯತು ರಾಮ || pa ||
tande tayiyu nine, bandhu balagavu nine hindu mundu nine, endendu nine bandabhaya pariharisi kundadale kayvasam – bandhiganu apta govinda nine || 22 ||
Srjisidavanu nine posisidavanu nine nijagatiya jivarige niduvavanu nine ajapitane ninna pada bhajane malpavarannu nijavagi kapadi poreva prabhunine || 23 ||
koduvavanu nine koluvavanu nine adigadige sukhaduhkha niduvava nine koduvadatanu nine kottaddu kondare hodakondu aluvadyatake mudhaprani || 24 ||
i podaviyolu modalu nanu bahu kaladi kaupina saha yanna sangadiralilla i poduviyanu bittu na popakalakku i pariye popenembudu satiyu alla || 25 ||
Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, is one of the most revered and beloved deities in Hinduism. Whether it is north south east or west or this entire universe, he is worshipped by all Hindus. His life and teachings have inspired millions of people for centuries, and his virtues and qualities continue to serve as a beacon of hope and guidance for people around the world.
So many of you have asked how do we celebrate the festival, and here are some ideas.
Rama Navami celebrates the birth of Lord Rama. Here are some ways you can celebrate Rama Navami:
Fast: Many Hindus fast on this day, either for the entire day or for a specific period of time. Some people also eat only certain foods, such as fruit or milk.
Offer prayers: You can visit a nearby temple and offer prayers to Lord Rama. You can also light a lamp or candle and recite prayers at home. Recite “Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare hare”. Or from the Vishnu Sahasranama ” Sri Rama Rama Rameti Rame Rame Manorame Sahasranama Tattulyam Rama Nama Varanane”.
Read the Ramayana: The Ramayana is an epic Hindu scripture that tells the story of Lord Rama. You can read or listen to the Ramayana to learn more about Lord Rama and his life. If you can’t read Ramayana read the links I provided like – https://meerasubbarao.wordpress.com/2023/03/25/sri-raama-chaaritrya-manjari/
Decorate: You can decorate Rama’s idol or Picture you have with flowers, rangoli, or other decorations to celebrate the occasion.
These are some simple ways to celebrate Rama Navami. The important thing is to remember and honor Lord Rama and his teachings on this special day.
Lord Rama is considered an ideal human being and his life and teachings have great significance in Hinduism. Here are some of the teachings of Lord Rama:
Dharma: Lord Rama believed in following dharma, or righteousness, in all aspects of life. He always chose to do the right thing, even when it was difficult or went against his own interests. When Lord Rama was about to be crowned as the king of Ayodhya, his stepmother Kaikeyi asked King Dasharatha, Lord Rama’s father, to fulfill two boons that she had received from him earlier. One of the boons was that her son Bharata would become the king of Ayodhya instead of Lord Rama. Despite being unjustly treated, Lord Rama chose to honor his father’s promise and Kaikeyi’s wishes. He willingly went into exile for 14 years, leaving behind his kingdom, wealth, and loved ones. This shows Lord Rama commitment to dharma and his selfless nature.
Love and respect for all: Lord Rama treated everyone with love and respect, regardless of their social status or background. He was kind and compassionate to all, and his love for his wife Sita and his brothers is legendary. I have heard this as a kid and sharing with you all. There is a story in the Ramayana where Lord Rama encounters a small squirrel who wants to help him build a bridge across the ocean to Lanka, where Ravana had taken Sita. The squirrel tries to contribute by rolling in the sand and shaking it off on the bridge, but the other monkeys mock and belittle it. Despite this, Lord Rama notices the squirrel’s efforts and lovingly picks it up and strokes its back, leaving three white stripes on its fur. This is said to be the reason why squirrels have three white stripes on their backs even today. Lord Rama’s kind and loving treatment of the squirrel shows that he valued the efforts of all beings, regardless of their size or status. Another example of Lord Rama’s love and respect for all is the way he treated his greatest devotee, Hanuman, who was a Vanara. Lord Rama had a deep affection and respect for Hanuman, who had played a crucial role in the rescue of Sita from the clutches of Ravana. Lord Rama considered Hanuman as his friend and equal, and he honored him with the highest level of respect and affection. In fact, Lord Rama is known to have declared that anyone who seeks his blessings must also seek Hanuman’s blessings first. Lord Rama’s love and respect for Hanuman is a shining example of his love and respect for all beings, regardless of their species or status. It is said that Lord Rama’s relationship with Hanuman exemplifies the universal nature of love and the fact that love knows no boundaries.
Courage and strength: Lord Rama demonstrated great courage and strength, both physical and mental, throughout his life. He faced numerous challenges and obstacles, but he never gave up or lost faith. Lord Rama faced numerous obstacles and challenges on his journey to rescue Sita, including crossing the ocean, building a bridge with the help of the Vanara army, and finally facing Ravana in a fierce battle. Despite Ravana’s immense strength and magical powers, Lord Rama remained fearless and determined. He fought with great courage and skill and finally defeated Ravana with a single arrow to his heart. Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana is considered a symbol of the triumph of good over evil, and his courage and strength in this battle have been celebrated and revered for centuries.
Honesty and integrity: Lord Rama was known for his honesty and integrity. He always kept his word and honored his commitments, even if it meant facing difficulties or challenges. After rescuing Sita from Ravana, Lord Rama was questioned about her chastity due to her long captivity. Despite his love for Sita, he felt compelled to honor his duty as a king and asked her to undergo a trial by fire (agni pariksha) to prove her purity. Sita, who was innocent, underwent the trial and emerged unscathed, proving her purity and loyalty to Lord Rama. This act of Lord Rama shows his commitment to justice and fairness, and his willingness to do what is right, even if it is difficult or goes against his own interests. Another example of Lord Rama’s honesty and integrity is the way he kept his word and fulfilled his promises, even at great personal cost. When Lord Rama was exiled from Ayodhya for 14 years, his brother Bharata came to meet him in the forest and begged him to return to Ayodhya and take his rightful place as king. However, Lord Rama refused, saying that he had made a promise to their father and he must honor it. He also refused to take any shortcuts or engage in any deceitful tactics to gain the throne. Instead, he asked Bharata to rule Ayodhya in his absence and promised to return after completing his exile. Lord Rama’s commitment to his word and his refusal to compromise his principles or values is a shining example of his honesty and integrity.
Self-control and detachment: Lord Rama practiced self-control and detachment, which are important values in Hinduism. He was not attached to material possessions or worldly pleasures and remained focused on his spiritual path. An example of Lord Rama’s self-control and detachment is the way he dealt with his exile from Ayodhya. When Lord Rama was asked to go into exile for 14 years, he did not protest or resist the decision, even though he was the rightful heir to the throne. Instead, he accepted his fate with grace and dignity and chose to spend his time in the forest meditating, practicing self-control, and strengthening his spiritual and mental resolve. He remained detached from material possessions and the luxuries of palace life and lived a simple and austere life in the forest. Lord Rama’s ability to maintain his self-control and detachment, even in the face of extreme hardship, is a testament to his strength of character and his unwavering commitment to dharma.
The life and teachings of Lord Rama provide us with a blueprint for living a life of purpose, meaning, and virtue. His love and respect for all beings, his courage and strength, his honesty and integrity, and his self-control and detachment continue to inspire us to this day. By following his example and embodying his virtues, we can all strive to be better individuals and make the world a better place.
This year, Sri Rama Navami takes place on Thursday, as I have been writing frequently and as you all are fully aware. Additionally, Thursdays are an especially wonderful day for followers of our beloved Rayaru. Now that Rama Navami falls on a Thursday, we have a special treat to mark the occasion.
An ideal way to celebrate is to recite Sri Raama Chaaritrya Manjari composed by none other than our Beloved Rayaru. I am posting the lyrics here in Kannada, Accented English and Plain English.
It is Sanskrit so a little bit tough to get the words right, but with practice you should be able to recite it on Thursday. There are several YouTube videos so I didn’t post any myself.
Rayaru has condensed the entire Ramayana into just 12 simple paragraphs.
|| iti sri raghavendratirthakrta sriramacaritra manjari ||
P.S: @bhargavasarma has provided a downloadable link for the same in Sanskrit, Kannada, Telugu and English. You can download the PDF from the link below:
Kalpavriksha Kamadhenu 
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