Sunday, June 28, 2009
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Shri Arunji's Thean Amudham Satsang at Kanyakumari
The back drop to this satsang was truly divine,The gentle roar of the three oceans, the vibrant Visakha festivities of Devi Kanya Kumari Amman, the majestic 33 year old Indira, the temple elephant aside devotees drawn from different parts of the State soaked into the Celestial Nectar bhajans for almost three hours. In a brief interlude, Arunji reminded the audience that the devotion of Kanya Kumari and her single minded focus on the Divine (Kailaspathy) should be our true inspiration. Whenever our minds get swayed by the influence of maya, Amman's presence serves as a beacon of light from a Lighthouse to take us ashore.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
“Sampradaya”- A Tribute to Tradition
A country like India with diverse faiths, languages, cultures and traditions has presented the World with precious treasures like the mathematical concept of zero, the primordial sound Aum, the science of Ayurveda, Yoga, and Buddhism. It is a treasure house of art, architecture; philosophy, classical dances and music
If we turn back to history Lord Macaulay’s following quote in the British Parliament in 1835 stands ample testimony to our rich heritage: “I have travelled across the length and breadth of India and I have not seen one person who is a beggar, who is a thief. Such wealth I have seen in this country, such high moral values, people of such calibre, that I do not think we would ever conquer this country, unless we break the very backbone of this nation, which is her spiritual and cultural heritage, and, therefore, I propose that we replace her old and ancient education system, her culture, for if the Indians think that all that is foreign and English is good and greater than their own, they will lose their self-esteem, their native self-culture and they will become what we want them, a truly dominated nation”. From then began the phase in our Nation’s history when people started distancing from our rich cultural heritage and gradually the traditions and rituals began to degenerate. As people began embracing the alien western culture, the strong foundations of our time tested culture were getting corroded.
Most of the societal and environmental troubles that we face today can be attributed to the willful neglect of customs and traditions from childhood. We need to impart knowledge about the rich legacy handed to us by our ancestors to our younger generation and make them remain uncompromising in the authentic principles they stand for.
Shri. Arun Madhavanji, a banker turned theologian from the AOL organisation, has brought out a book to revive the waning precious glory of our culture. He has successfully compiled 22 chapters that illuminate the hidden metaphors behind our customs and traditions. The title of the book “Sampradaya” is befitting as it covers many important aspects of our daily rituals and equally their relevance to health and harmony.
The book is certainly a true Tribute to Tradition. It should give the Generation- next a vivid insight into our rich culture and traditions popularly known as “Sanatana Dharma”. Shri. Arunji puts it ‘Sanatana’ is that which cannot be destroyed by fire, weapons, water, air and which is present in all living and non living things. 'Dharma' being the way of life which is the 'total of all customs and rituals'.
“Sampradaya” has its roots in scientific spirituality. The deep insightful knowledge, with sheer simplicity and appropriate illustrations makes the book so attractive. The message that the book conveys is a priceless gift and should be presented to the younger generation as well to the not- so young ones who will certainly cherish it.
It is reasonably priced at Rs.99/- per copy. Limited stocks available. Contact: Shri.G.Chandrasekarji, AOL faculty, Phone: 94433-49259. Or E-Mail aolcbe@gmail.com for requirements.
M.Gopalakrishnan
If we turn back to history Lord Macaulay’s following quote in the British Parliament in 1835 stands ample testimony to our rich heritage: “I have travelled across the length and breadth of India and I have not seen one person who is a beggar, who is a thief. Such wealth I have seen in this country, such high moral values, people of such calibre, that I do not think we would ever conquer this country, unless we break the very backbone of this nation, which is her spiritual and cultural heritage, and, therefore, I propose that we replace her old and ancient education system, her culture, for if the Indians think that all that is foreign and English is good and greater than their own, they will lose their self-esteem, their native self-culture and they will become what we want them, a truly dominated nation”. From then began the phase in our Nation’s history when people started distancing from our rich cultural heritage and gradually the traditions and rituals began to degenerate. As people began embracing the alien western culture, the strong foundations of our time tested culture were getting corroded.
Most of the societal and environmental troubles that we face today can be attributed to the willful neglect of customs and traditions from childhood. We need to impart knowledge about the rich legacy handed to us by our ancestors to our younger generation and make them remain uncompromising in the authentic principles they stand for.
Shri. Arun Madhavanji, a banker turned theologian from the AOL organisation, has brought out a book to revive the waning precious glory of our culture. He has successfully compiled 22 chapters that illuminate the hidden metaphors behind our customs and traditions. The title of the book “Sampradaya” is befitting as it covers many important aspects of our daily rituals and equally their relevance to health and harmony.
The book is certainly a true Tribute to Tradition. It should give the Generation- next a vivid insight into our rich culture and traditions popularly known as “Sanatana Dharma”. Shri. Arunji puts it ‘Sanatana’ is that which cannot be destroyed by fire, weapons, water, air and which is present in all living and non living things. 'Dharma' being the way of life which is the 'total of all customs and rituals'.
“Sampradaya” has its roots in scientific spirituality. The deep insightful knowledge, with sheer simplicity and appropriate illustrations makes the book so attractive. The message that the book conveys is a priceless gift and should be presented to the younger generation as well to the not- so young ones who will certainly cherish it.
It is reasonably priced at Rs.99/- per copy. Limited stocks available. Contact: Shri.G.Chandrasekarji, AOL faculty, Phone: 94433-49259. Or E-Mail aolcbe@gmail.com for requirements.
M.Gopalakrishnan
Friday, May 8, 2009
Shri Arunji in China.
Seated on the Nanda Devi banquet table at the world renowned Raffles-Beijing ( l to r ) Indian Defence Attache at Beijing,Chitraji and Shri Arunji. The event was hosted by the India Tourism and the Indian Embassy.A brief report from Shri. Arunji.
China is one of the world's most closely observed and coveted tourism markets for outbound travel. Last year alone some 48 million travelers from China made their way around the world spending close to USD 49 billion making it one of the top outbound tourist market. With the opening of the India Tourism office in Beijing in early 2008, India has planted the seeds for India-China Friendship through Tourism.
The Incredible India evening that took place on 7th April 2009 at the prestigious Raffles - Beijing was an ensemble of India's best classical dancesand the multi faceted cuisine of Taj Hotel group. Interestingly the emerging India fashion was also essayed by the best known Chinese models. The audio visual compared India to a garden of flowers of many colors and shades; all of which while maintaining their own identity, lend harmony and beauty to the entire garden.
Gurudev always reminds us that we have the best to offer to any tourist and India is indeed an adorable tourism destination. The efficient manner in which the whole event was presented to the audience by India Tourism was commendable.
Every one of us must recognise how vital this market is and do our bit to show courtesy with a smile and hospitality to our overseas visitors. They in turn can be our Ambassadors of goodwill to bring more tourists.
The Chinese Foreign Minister and Ambassadors from various countries, Scholars and media were present at this Enchanted evening. It was exciting to meet Chinese alumni from the dance schools of Chennai and yoga practitioners at such an extraordinary event
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Lingering memories of Thadicombu
Here is a shrine with an unusual name, an abode of Azhagar, Maha Vishnu. The name is traced to Telugu implying a forest cluster. The dwellers here who could not travel the distance to Madurai to worship Azhagar created a replica here. The Kumbhabishekam celebrations that took off on 31st March included an “akanda namasankirtan” by Shri.Arunji. The program that was live telecast was witnessed by over two lakh of devotees in the region. The people who thronged the occasion got an exquisite exposition from Shri.Arunji on the significance of the various rituals and their impact on human psyche.
Thadicombu, is 9 km from Dindigul and the temple here is popularly known as Sri Soundararaja Perumal Temple. After a gap of 11 years the temple was completely renovated at a cost of Rs.1.25 crore. Granite stones were laid on the floors of Lord Perumal and goddess Soundaravalli Thaayar sannadhis. Sixteen pillar idols were polished.
Sri Andal and Sri Vishvaksenar ‘vimanams’ were constructed and ‘rajagopuram’ and ‘vimanams’ of Perumal and Sri Padmavathi Thaayar were renovated. ‘Kalasams’ of ‘raja gopuram’ and ‘vimanam’ of Perumal sannadhi were gilded with gold.
Dasa Avatars and various forms of Lord Vishnu were painted on the walls and roof of the outer ‘prakaram.’ It is a modern day marvel and people who travel around Dindigul, Palani, Madurai areas should make it a point to visit this shrine.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
The Thennangur Advanced Course Experience.
As we drive past Thennangur on the highway it would appear like any other sleepy rural village of India; till we go through the lush green paddy fields and come face to face with a very impressive 120 ft tall gopuram of Shri Panduranga at the Dakshina Halasyam. The craftsmanship that has gone into making this shrine is truly captivating and remains etched in the minds of pilgrims; more so the clarity and devotion with which the rituals get explained by the Pundits.
Within the complex is a magnificent hall where the Chennai volunteers organized a Part 2 AMC last week for the third year in succession. The hall had witnessed years of Nama sankirtan and little wonder the participants felt at home from the very moment they stepped in. The warm musical welcome from Shri.Arunji on the opening day followed by three days of Silence and Sadhana gave every one a life time experience. As the participant from the US explained that it made a huge difference for her to have taken the course here. There was not a dull moment from the start to finish. The early morning meditation with Shri. Arunji and the yoga sessions Asokanji were indeed special. Many of us didn’t have the heart to leave the place. The precious knowledge and sadhanas filled our hearts with deepest gratitude to the Volunteers who made it possible, the Course Director and his efficient team and above all the grace of our Guru.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Kalviyum Aanmeegamum - Shri Arunji at Tirupur
Photos courtesy Shri. Jothi Ramalingam, Coimbatore, Shri.Sundaresan and Shri.Aravindan Tirupur
The beautiful campus of Jayanthi Matriculation School , situated at the outskirts of the newly formed Tirupur District, hosted a memorable discourse titled “ Kalviyum Aanmeegamum” ( Education and Spirituality) by Shri. Arun Madhavanji, Founder Trustee, of the Art of Living Foundation, Bangalore.
A large gathering of students, teachers, eminent citizens from Tirupur and Coimbatore including our ever expanding art of living family enjoyed two hours of “Thean Amudham “ Bhajans and Timeless wisdom. The evening was specially intended for the students.
Shri. Arunji initiated the event with a “Bhajan” on Lord Ganesha and started his discourse saying “The educational system as it exists today gives students loads of information on various disciplines but not necessarily the skills to convert the knowledge into meeting the challenges of the world and in one’s personal life. There are increasing numbers of early burn out, failed relationships within family and in teams, all due to poor investment in emotional health.”
Further he said “Adding a spiritual dimension to education has become a dire necessity. Spiritual practices help sharpen one’s vision about life and facilitate the art of Self management well. It helps him to look backwards with gratitude, upwards with confidence and forward with hope. It wakes him up to deep reverence to the “Pancha bhutas” of Mother Nature and all its creations.”
Shri. Arunji added further “We need not look beyond the masterpiece ‘odi vilayadu paappa’ by Poet Subramaniya Bharathi. His words have been summed up below to prepare the spiritual foundation by getting connected to Nature and taking responsibility for the world.
Childhood and youth is the time:
• to play, to be active like a sparrow, learning to work together in teams.
• to appreciate the presence of birds and animals, they being our friends on
earth.
• to rise early, to read and to sing fulfilling songs.
• to engage into a sports and games in the evenings
• to adhere to satya
• to develop a firm faith that the Divine love and protection always exists
• to remain fearless in the face of evil and not feel disheartened
• to win over laziness and paying heed to good advices from parents
• to feel grateful for your birth in the land of great saints
• to feel proud being a citizen of India, the land of Vedas
• to eschew differences of caste and status
The ancient verse says “Let there be Peace on Earth but let it begin with me”. Spirituality helps students to achieve that inner peace, to make them dynamic and perform better in studies and in life without destroying their physical and emotional health in the process.”
He highlighted how the Art of Living Courses with the help of simple yoga asanas, Pranayama and Meditation helps the children gain emotional health and sustain the same.
He said the word “Bharatham” is a combination of “Bhavam” Raagam” and” Thaalam” and it is a great boon that we are born here.
Shri. Arunji in his inimitable style narrated how “Lord Hanuman” saved the Nine Planets from the clutches of Ravana and as a favour for saving them, the planets blessed him saying that whoever prays to Lord Hanuman will be able to avoid the malicious effects caused by the Nine Planets” This was followed by the song on “Lord Anjenya – Anjile ondru Petran” and it was really a treat to the ears.
Finally, he spoke on the present global economic slowdown and said it was time for Industrialists and business people to keep honing their skills in their respective field of expertise so that better opportunities shall dawn on them at an appropriate time. He gave a wonderful example from Mahabharata wherein the Pandavas used their hiding period to hone their skills and they prepared themselves fully for regaining their kingdom.
The discourse signed off with the popular Thean Amudham Bhajan “ Vettaliyle Malakattunga” on Lord Hanuman which kept the audience swinging and dancing till the end.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
The flowers remained fresh and today our memories too..
The famed Bhadrachalam shrine in Andhra Pradesh alongside the holy Godavari river was witness to four days of deep meditations, silence and blissful satsangs of participants at the first ever Part II residential Course. It began with an expression of gratitude to our beloved Gurudev and honoring the presiding deity of the town - Vaikunta Rama. The garlands adorning the tall handsome deities at the campus Garden didn't fade one bit till the end and so our fond memories. We felt transported to Visalakshi mantap with the morning chants of the young pundits in- the -making at the Campus shrine Veda patashala, the presence of eminent Temple scholars at satsangs, not forgetting the flutter of pigeons atop the ceiling! The intervening solar eclipse gave many an opportunity for noble austerities and holy dip in the quiet flowing river just a stone throw away from the Meditation Hall.
Satsangs were very elevating with newly composed bhajans in Telugu and Tamil by the Course Director Shri.Arunji. Here is something very interesting.
On the evening of Day one, the vibrations of some of the new bhajans by Shri.Arunji reached the temple precincts some distance away and allured the Chief priest of the Temple to the AMC venue and enjoy the Satsang. The participants were not aware of this until the last day, when the Chief Priest revealed this and began sharing his unique experience.
He said to even to enter Bhadrachalam one needs to get the blessings of Lord Rama and anyone who stays in this holy place continuously for three days, will attain "Moksha". One should be very fortunate to have Darshan of Lord Vaikunta Rama and take bath in the holy Godavari River. The Temple was built by Shri. Kancharla Gopanna, a devotee of Lord Rama. He is infact hailed as Ramadasu. So far Ramadasu was the only person who had drunk the nectar of grace from the lotus called Bhadrachala Rama and today, he said "through your devotion filled Bhajans, you have been able to drink the same nectar of divine grace. We sit here and envy you!"
After the Suprabatham at the temple at 4.00 am, Shri.Arunji asked us to sit with our eyes closed and from the next moment to nearly an hour, we were elevated into a deep trance of meditation. The experience was something very amazing and beyond words. We then recalled Gurudev's inspiration to holding such programmes at such Holy places.
Morning yoga sessions with Sri.Asokanji were thoroughly appreciated by everybody. Participants were blown over by a mini ballet on Krishna by singer-dancer Smt.Gita at the finale. The experience will remain etched in our memory for ever.
Kudos for the extraordinary team work of teachers from Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.
For those who had missed Bhadrachalam, we are happy to announce the next part-II Advanced Meditation course at Thennangur, near Chennai with Shri. Arunji.
Course Dates: 5, 6, 7, & 8th March 2009
Venue : Satguru Gnananandhagiri Ashram, Thennangur.
Govindaraju
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Thirupavai Thiruvempavai Discourse by Sri Arunji
The Ayyappan Puja Sangham, Coimbatore started 58 years ago with the blessings of Lord Ayyappa has grown into a very big organisation and conducts spiritual programmes throughout the year. The Puja Mahotsavam and the Annual Day of the Sangham is celebrated during the last week of December every year. The daily programs includes homams, Rudra Poojas, Poornahuti, Vasordharai, Maha Deeparadhana, Cultural programmes, Annadhanams etc. Sri. Arunji Founding Trustee of the Art of Living Foundation was invited to give a Musical discourse on Thirupavai and Thiruvempavai and its relevance to the present day living.
On the 26th of December evening the Sangham hall was filled with people. The sacred heat radiated by the homams and poornahuti of the day got transformed into a cool and pleasant ambience by Sri.Arunji’s invocation on Lord Ganesha and Lord Ayyappa. The discourse began with the significance of the Maargazhi maasam known as Dhanur maasya. It is usual that people tend to get into Tamo Guna during this month Thirupavai and Thiruvempavai gives ways and means to overcome it. Sri. Arunji then spoke about Thiruvempavai and its author Saint Manikavasgar and his devotion to Lord Siva.
This was followed by a melodious song,
“Ambalatharase, Arumarundhe Anandha Theane Arul Virunthee.
Podhunadatharase Punniyane Pulavarellam pugazh ganniyanae”
The powerful lyrics of Saint Vallalar’s Thiruarutpa blending so well with Sri.Arunji’s mellifluous voice created blissful vibrancy in the surroundings.
Then came the anecdote filled with humour taking the crowd to irresistible laughter as Sri Arunji referred to the recent rains in Chennai the Capital of Tamilnadu where it poured for 3 consecutive days creating hardship for the people and damaging property worth Crores of Rupees. He said no doubt Andal in her Thirupavai, had prayed for 3 rains every month without hindrance to people and property. But the prayer was for one day rain and nine days of sunshine to be repeated thrice every month. This was the wish but what happens now is the opposite. A picture can speak more than a thousand words enjoy Sri.Arunji’s narration captured in video
Sri.Arunji also explained what life is all about. A person fell into a well and in the midway he was able to get hold of a tree branch and was able to cling on it. When he looked below he saw a big python and adding to his misery were two rats biting the same tree branch on which he was hanging. While trying to escape his hand accidently touched a bee hive and the bees started stinging him all over. Bearing all the pain and agony he felt something sweet in his tongue. It was the honey dropping from the bee hive. He forgot the pain and agony for a moment enjoyed the sweetness. This is what life is all about. The python symbolises the diseases and illness, the tree branch the Medicare and the doctors, the two rats are symbols of Kalan and Mirthyu. The bee stings are the agony and insults showered on us by our family, relatives and the society and the few drops of honey are the moments of happiness. Everyone needs to enjoy such moments of happiness and forget the miseries in life.
There was not a single dull moment during the entire two and half hours of the discourse. From children to octogenarians the diverse crowd enjoyed the “Thean Amudham” Bhajans. With the vocal support singers and the musicians rendering able support Sri.Arunji was at his amazing best. The “ Vishamakara Kannan” and the Hanumath Jayanthi Special “Vettalayile Malakattunga” enthralled the crowd.
Our appreciations to the Sri Ayyappan Puja Sangham Coimbatore for making excellent arrangements.
We received some interesting feedback from the audience and here are a few:-
Ms.Sandya Ramesh wrote:
“Arunji was a great hit with his ready wit, humour and pun. ( DAWN - and not DON as he put it )
Seamless and spontaneous blending of the invocation number on Ganesha to fit the context of the Ayyappa Mahotsavam. Was well done and it set the mood immediately as people were looking forward for more music
His introduction to the great hymns of Thirupavai and Thiruvembavai and the message to drive out the thamogun in us, wake up early in the month of Dhanur maasya gave a fresh angle to it. I believed that there could be some serious meaning to Dhanur maasya and comes Arunji's googly. Don’t we sleep all cuddled up; and not to forget Kumbakarna.
Of course his anecdote on the recent flash floods in the Capital city with the lines “Boat maele thanni pona” was so well said and he linked it to Sri Andal’s memorable lines “Theengindri naadellaam thingal mum maari peidhu ".
Oomaiyo, Sevido, Ananthalo - Keeping mum to gossip, blind ear to others insults / harsh words and remaining COOL - indeed very aptly interpreted.
“Neiyunnom, Paallunom” - dietary control during this time of paavai noanbu.
He sang “Kaakai siraginiley” and highlighted being Eco-friendly, linking to Aandal who had sung about bio diversity in nature friendly lines, birds chirping, bees resting on flowers, trees, plants and fragrance. How well he blended “Siruthuli” the local eco movement of the city”
Smt.Rajam Mani Iyer. “ In my eighty odd years, I have not come across such an enlivening discourse full of soul lifting music intermingled with knowledge. Sri. Arunji, has explained in simple language how the message of Thirupavai and Thiruvempavai could be applied in our lives”
Sri.Venkat a resident of Singapore “ Sri.Arunji got the full involvement from the audience and it was a lively two and half hour session which I will cherish for a long time.”
Sri.Sundar
Yesterday, being my birthday I took the opportunity to visit my son in his school at Mettupalayam. The Principal of the school - a state awardee for best teacher - is a role model for the students. I had given him CDs of CN-1 & 5 earlier. He was profusely appreciating CN -5 and particularly the song "Vettalayile Maalai Kattu ..." which he has heard till now for nearly 500 times ! He had choreographed this song during the childrens' day celebrations. This song had made many teachers dance who had never even tapped their toes. The "thiruppavai .. tiruvempavai .." discourse has had a terrific impact on all. As you rightly said, if we bring smiles and happiness on all their faces, our job is done.
On the 26th of December evening the Sangham hall was filled with people. The sacred heat radiated by the homams and poornahuti of the day got transformed into a cool and pleasant ambience by Sri.Arunji’s invocation on Lord Ganesha and Lord Ayyappa. The discourse began with the significance of the Maargazhi maasam known as Dhanur maasya. It is usual that people tend to get into Tamo Guna during this month Thirupavai and Thiruvempavai gives ways and means to overcome it. Sri. Arunji then spoke about Thiruvempavai and its author Saint Manikavasgar and his devotion to Lord Siva.
This was followed by a melodious song,
“Ambalatharase, Arumarundhe Anandha Theane Arul Virunthee.
Podhunadatharase Punniyane Pulavarellam pugazh ganniyanae”
The powerful lyrics of Saint Vallalar’s Thiruarutpa blending so well with Sri.Arunji’s mellifluous voice created blissful vibrancy in the surroundings.
Then came the anecdote filled with humour taking the crowd to irresistible laughter as Sri Arunji referred to the recent rains in Chennai the Capital of Tamilnadu where it poured for 3 consecutive days creating hardship for the people and damaging property worth Crores of Rupees. He said no doubt Andal in her Thirupavai, had prayed for 3 rains every month without hindrance to people and property. But the prayer was for one day rain and nine days of sunshine to be repeated thrice every month. This was the wish but what happens now is the opposite. A picture can speak more than a thousand words enjoy Sri.Arunji’s narration captured in video
Sri.Arunji also explained what life is all about. A person fell into a well and in the midway he was able to get hold of a tree branch and was able to cling on it. When he looked below he saw a big python and adding to his misery were two rats biting the same tree branch on which he was hanging. While trying to escape his hand accidently touched a bee hive and the bees started stinging him all over. Bearing all the pain and agony he felt something sweet in his tongue. It was the honey dropping from the bee hive. He forgot the pain and agony for a moment enjoyed the sweetness. This is what life is all about. The python symbolises the diseases and illness, the tree branch the Medicare and the doctors, the two rats are symbols of Kalan and Mirthyu. The bee stings are the agony and insults showered on us by our family, relatives and the society and the few drops of honey are the moments of happiness. Everyone needs to enjoy such moments of happiness and forget the miseries in life.
There was not a single dull moment during the entire two and half hours of the discourse. From children to octogenarians the diverse crowd enjoyed the “Thean Amudham” Bhajans. With the vocal support singers and the musicians rendering able support Sri.Arunji was at his amazing best. The “ Vishamakara Kannan” and the Hanumath Jayanthi Special “Vettalayile Malakattunga” enthralled the crowd.
Our appreciations to the Sri Ayyappan Puja Sangham Coimbatore for making excellent arrangements.
We received some interesting feedback from the audience and here are a few:-
Ms.Sandya Ramesh wrote:
“Arunji was a great hit with his ready wit, humour and pun. ( DAWN - and not DON as he put it )
Seamless and spontaneous blending of the invocation number on Ganesha to fit the context of the Ayyappa Mahotsavam. Was well done and it set the mood immediately as people were looking forward for more music
His introduction to the great hymns of Thirupavai and Thiruvembavai and the message to drive out the thamogun in us, wake up early in the month of Dhanur maasya gave a fresh angle to it. I believed that there could be some serious meaning to Dhanur maasya and comes Arunji's googly. Don’t we sleep all cuddled up; and not to forget Kumbakarna.
Of course his anecdote on the recent flash floods in the Capital city with the lines “Boat maele thanni pona” was so well said and he linked it to Sri Andal’s memorable lines “Theengindri naadellaam thingal mum maari peidhu ".
Oomaiyo, Sevido, Ananthalo - Keeping mum to gossip, blind ear to others insults / harsh words and remaining COOL - indeed very aptly interpreted.
“Neiyunnom, Paallunom” - dietary control during this time of paavai noanbu.
He sang “Kaakai siraginiley” and highlighted being Eco-friendly, linking to Aandal who had sung about bio diversity in nature friendly lines, birds chirping, bees resting on flowers, trees, plants and fragrance. How well he blended “Siruthuli” the local eco movement of the city”
Smt.Rajam Mani Iyer. “ In my eighty odd years, I have not come across such an enlivening discourse full of soul lifting music intermingled with knowledge. Sri. Arunji, has explained in simple language how the message of Thirupavai and Thiruvempavai could be applied in our lives”
Sri.Venkat a resident of Singapore “ Sri.Arunji got the full involvement from the audience and it was a lively two and half hour session which I will cherish for a long time.”
Sri.Sundar
Yesterday, being my birthday I took the opportunity to visit my son in his school at Mettupalayam. The Principal of the school - a state awardee for best teacher - is a role model for the students. I had given him CDs of CN-1 & 5 earlier. He was profusely appreciating CN -5 and particularly the song "Vettalayile Maalai Kattu ..." which he has heard till now for nearly 500 times ! He had choreographed this song during the childrens' day celebrations. This song had made many teachers dance who had never even tapped their toes. The "thiruppavai .. tiruvempavai .." discourse has had a terrific impact on all. As you rightly said, if we bring smiles and happiness on all their faces, our job is done.
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