Vaikunta Ekaadasi - December 22/ December 23, 2023

(Image courtesy: www.bhagavad-gita.us)

Dear Members:

The most glorious and important of all Ekaadaasis - the Vaikunta Ekaadasi falls on December 22/ December 23, 2023.

Schedule of observance of the fast for people living in different parts of the world:

a) Those living in USA, Canada, and other countries of North and South American continents, and those living in all countries of Europe must observe this on December 22, 2023.

b) Those living in countries of African continent, and in middle-East Asian countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iran, Iraq, etc.), and observing Smaartha traditions must observe this fast on December 22, 2023.

c) People living in regions mentioned in point b) above and observing Vaishnava traditions must observe this on December 23, 2023. 

d) Those living in other parts of the world - including India - must observe this on December 23, 2023.

Note:  Without exception - people living throughout the world who wish to observe Gita Jayanthi must do so on December 22, 2023.

This is one of the most highly recommended fasts for a devout spiritual aspirant because it has the potential of opening the "Gates of Divine Abode of Lord Vishnu" for you if this is observed correctly. Even those who have medical conditions which prevent them from observing a full fast should abstain from rice-items and sustain themselves with alternative ritually pure foods (avoiding garlic, onions, beverages like coffee, tea, etc.). Those who are desirous of cutting off the endless cycle of births and deaths for the soul must contemplate on upanishads like Gopaala Taapini Upanishad, recite Holy Bhagavat Gita, Bhaagavatam, etc.

In Vaishnava temples "swarga Dwaar" - a sort of archway leading around the Inner Sanctum Sanctorum is erected, and crossing that is symbolic of crossing the threshold of Vaikunta and getting glimpse of our Lord. Spending time in meditation/ japam while waiting in the serpentine ques, and ultimately having the glimpse of Our Lord after crossing the threshold will definitely be gainful for your souls. Please note that you should not get angry with other devotees in the que or pick up fights, you should not "jump" ques trying to overtake the other waiting devotees with your "street smartness, pushing abilities", etc. in the que. Such activities definitely invoke bad karma, and it is not for that, that you go to a temple on a Holy Day (I am commenting on this because such activities are too common in long ques; a person who jumps ques thinking he is outsmarting others is actually fooling himself/ herself, and damning himself/ herself with that karma; on the other hand, those who wait patiently, and do what they can to help other devotees who might be finding it uncomfortable - like ladies with infants, elderly, etc. while standing in ques are invoking good karma and actually helping their own souls to progress. Selfishness and self-comfort should take a back-seat at least during these occasions - and that too for your own good! If you are entitled to temple honours in some way, and hence receive special darshan - that is different; you need not feel guilty about that; probably, you deserve such Honours and maybe, that was Divine Gift to you! But even such people - if you can, it will be real good merit to stand patiently in a que, do japams till your turn at darshan comes, and then have a darshan of the Lord along with the other common devotees because, God Himself may be in disguise among the masses during these occasions. I have felt it many times - and I request my fellow aspirants to feel such miracles of brushing shoulders with Divine in crowded temples for themselves!).

Generally, chanting of Raama naama, and recital of Shri Vishnu Sahasranaamam can be done by everyone today for obtaining religious merit, and for perfection/ progress of our Soul.

It is also recommended that you should remain awake at night and spend it in Divine Contemplation, bhajans (Divine Songs), discussing Theological matters, etc. It is traditional to play a dice game called "Paramapadham" on this night. You should not merely play it as a game....in the traditional Indian version of this game (the western version is Snake and Ladders!, and I am not referring to that when I write this article....), you will find "ladders" corresponding to various virtues, and "snakes" corresponding to certain shortcomings of attitude/ character....you can see where each ladder leads you, and where each snake drops you....look at the character/ attitude depicted in the box, see how progress/ downfall happens based on the ladder/ snake you encounter. This is verily a spiritual lesson of how a soul can progress or regress into various states of existence. It is analogous to the journey of your souls through the Cycle of Existence till the soul attains Liberation or Merging with Divine experience. You will also see how difficult it is to progress at the end of the game, and that is how difficult it is for a soul to reach ultimate liberation. If you play it consciously, reading all the attributes described in the chart carefully, this game can be a meditative exercise in itself, and can be a valuable tool for imparting spiritual values for children.

Of course, playing the paramapadam is not mandatory......it just helps you to keep awake and at the same time induce philosophical musings if played properly. Those of you who feel sufficiently spiritually awakened already may just spend the night in quiet Divine Contemplation which is best.

May our members observe this Holy day Fast diligently as per their circumstances and practical limitations to the best of their abilities and win salvation for their souls.

Blessed be.

Pandit R.DAKSHINAMOORTHI

Astrological and Remedial consultant

www.kasamba.com/psychic/pandit-dakshinamoorthi

Dattatreya Jayathi on December 26, 2023

Dear Members:

Dattatreya Jayanthi is observed on December 26, 2023 this year.

Shri Guru DattaatrEya is an incarnation possessing the Divine attributes of the Trimurthis (Brahma, vishnu, and Shiva) with Sage Atri and the sage's Wife Anusuyaa Devi as His parents. He is an Aadi Guru of the avadhoota sampradaaya. He is a Divine Form who can be easily pleased by mere remembrance of Him ("smarana maatra santushtaaya!")

Anusuyaa Devi - the wife of Sage Atri was known for Her Piety and virtues. Sage Naarada was extolling Her virtues to Goddesses Saraswathy, Lakshmi, and Paarvathy. The Goddesses requested the Trimurthies to test her virtues. The trimurthis took the form of mendicants and went as athithis to the hermitage of Sage Atri when He was not there. Sagess Anusuya offered them the traditional respects due to athithis, and requested them to partake meals in the hermitage. The mendicants imposed the condition that they will partake meals only on one condition that Anusuyaa should serve them stark naked!

Anusuyaa Devi was in a moral fix....According to customs of those times in hermitages (even normal households for that matter!), an athithi was never to be turned away without feeding him. But, at the same time, as a pious and modest wife of a sage, she cannot even think of being nude in front of grown up strangers. (One needs to follow the precepts by which one lives on these matters; a naaga sanyaasi or even female sanyaasini may be nude per norms of their ashram....an avadhoota or a Jain monk may be nude since they are above normal human temptations and hence their nudity or being clad by the directions (digambara) is a sign of their having sublimated sexual principles/ temptations. Advanced occult practitioners may have Bhairavi circle poojas invoking Deities in human form itself and those practices may include varying degrees of being clad by the directions.  But, for the wife of a vedic sage, there were protocols which is what is mentioned here and it is wonderful how the sage's wife reconciled the conflicting restrictions of satisfying the athithis and preserving the modesty protocol of her husband's ashram).  She meditated on her husband, and sprinkled Holy Water from his kamandal (a sort of water container kept by sages) on the three mendicants. They got transformed into three infants by the power of her pious devotion to her husband. Obviously, there can be no reservation in being nude in front of infants! She fed them in that condition and thus satisfied the conditions of modesty as well as athithi bhojana (feeding guests). When Sage Atri returned to the hermitage, Anusuyaa Devi showed the three Divine Infants and explained the course of events. Sage Atri of course could Divine the events by His clairvoyance powers.

The three Devis visited the hermitage and beseeched the couple to return their husbands in their original Divine Forms. The couple agreed, but requested that they should have a Divine Child with the potency of the three murthis. Thus was born Shri DattatrEyaa - "Datta AatrEyaa - One who was given as Gift to Shri Atri maharishi and His wife."

Though Anusuyaa Devi wanted Dattatreya to live the life of a householder, He rejected those pleas and instead chose to live in the ways of a Avadhootaa (a complete renunciate - who transcends all sorts of differences and restrictions, and living in the High State of Spontaneous Living called "SwEchaachaaryaa"; saints who live that do what they feel like doing at that moment naturally...they do not follow any rigid rules or regulations in life - allowing Divinity to guide them each and every moment in the form of random thoughts that arise in their conscious!). Datta Gitaa is a philosophical work of wonderful metaphysical depth and beauty.

Many are the miracles of Shri DattatrEyaa right from His times to the current periods. The most famous devotees of Shri DattarEyaa are Sage Parasuraama (Shri DattatrEyaa helped Sage Parasuraamaa in performing the last rites of his father and ensured that the deceased sage attained Punya Lokhaas), and Shri Kaartaveeryaarjunaa (The Mighty King with One thousand shoulders! who was an Incarnation of Sudarshana - the Holy Disc of Lord Vishnu). In fact, Shri Kaartaveeryaarjuna was born without limbs as an infant, and it was by the power of tapasya focussed on Shri DattatrEyaa that he got 1000 pairs of hands and a mighty physique. Additionally, Shri Datta blessed him with a treasury that will never become empty, and also a boon that whosoever remembers the King Kaartaveeryaarjunaa will be able to retrieve lost property and realise rightful properties snatched away from them by force. Kaartaveeryaarjuna also had a boon that he can be defeated and killed only by a disciple/ devotee of Shri DattatrEyaa. When King Kaartaveeryaarjuna started behaving in arrogant manner, and had a clash with Jamadagni rishi, he met his end in the hands of Sage Parasuraama - the Incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and a devotee of Shri DatttrEyaa as per the boon. 

THE DIVINE FORM OF LORD DATTATREYA

Lord Dattatreya is often meditated upon with a Cow (KaamadhEnu) at His back, and 4 dogs at His feet. The Cow - KaamadhEnu represents the truth that whatever legitimate wish you have will be bestowed upon you when you pray to Him. The 4 dogs represent the 4 vedaas. Lord DattatrEyaa - the  Trimutrhi swaroopi has the characteristic Divine Weapons of the Trimurthis - in His hands and three heads representing the Trimurthis (also representing Satwaa, Rajas and Tamas gunaas!)

Yet another popular Divine Form that is usually venerated by followers of siddha/ Naath traditions is His Form with the 9 famous Nath saints.


Shri DattatrEya is easily pleased by mere Remembrance of Him. He may manifest in the form of an uninvited guest at noon, a mad beggar, a young child, or even ghostly forms (that is what His Moola mantra says ......." Baala Unmatta Pisaacha vEshaaya!"). Annadhaan (donation of food) to poor and needy is the charity that is closest to His Heart. Many devotees of Lord Datta have had Him visit their houses in the form of unknown guests at Noon. So, if possible, try to donate to charities specializing in feeding the poor on this day. As Dattatreya helped Sage Parasuraama in performance of rituals to ensure salvation of pitrus, He will help us also to get relieved from pitru doshas of all kinds. Also, yati saapaa (curse of saints/ sages/ mendicants) that might have arisen due to insult meted out to renunciates can be remedied by worship of Lord DattatrEyaa. Recital of DattatrEya Vajra Kavacham will help in nullifying even most terrible planetary afflictions. So, if you have people who are sick and whose conditions elude proper management by health professionals may benefit by recital of DattatrEya Vajra Kavacham recital.

SPECIAL AUSTERITIES AT OUR PLACE IN THIS CONNECTION

 We are planning to conduct special chants and homams on Datta Jayanthi day this year also. Shri DattatrEya Moola mantra homam, Dattatreya vajra kavacham, sthothras, and Shri Kaartaveeryaarjuna homam will be conducted at my residence at  Bangalore on December 26, 2023  (We Honour Kaartaveeryaarjuna also on that day because He is a proof to the fact that Faith on Datta can transform lives even overcoming Fate; the limbless child - who was considered inauspicious by his own parents - became the mighty 1000 armed warrior whose name and mantras have proved auspicious to countless generations - all due to Guru Datta's Grace) .

Worship of Karthaveeryaarjuna is a recommended procedure in mantra shastraic classics for overcoming the activities of rivals, to get back lost positions, to reunite with estranged relatives/ friends, to get Divine Assistance in tracing missing objects/ persons,  to counter black-magic done against us by enemies, to get success in all ventures and gain favour of those in authority, and for overcoming tough planetary aspects in general. It can be a highly auspicious worship for business persons who have begun new ventures, those who are tormented by powerful foes,  and for politicians  aspiring for powerful positions of authority (also for those appearing for major corporate board elections or governing body elections).

This is an in-absentia participation opportunity (sankalpam is taken in the sponsors' name, star, and gothra, and austerity done in their absence).  Also, please note that the pooja parasadam will not be sent by post due to ritual purity concerns and logistic difficulties. Inclusion of your name, gothra, and star in the sankalpam will be deemed "in-absentia" participation. Those who are interested may avail the pooja service by mailing me at: dakshinastrologer@rediffmail.com/ dakshinastrologer@yahoo.co.in with the subject tag "Datta Jayanthi sponsorship"


The offering options are as below (to give an idea about the cost of participation in the austerities):

a) Dattatreya and Karthaveerya homam part-sponsorship - Rs.2000 (rupees two thousand only).

b) Dattatreya Moola mantra japam and archana in the evening with chanting of sthothras in His Honour - Rs.350 (rupees three hundred and fifty only)

c) Kaarthveeryaarjuna archana and Japam- Rs.350 (rupees three hundred and fifty only).

d) DattatrEya Vajra Kavacham recital and special pooja in that connection - Rs.500 (rupees five hundred only).

Please note:  Part-sponsors of the main homam will be automatically included in Dattatreya Moola mantra japam, Vajra Kavacham and Karthaveerya Arjuna japam recitals.  So, those who are availing that sponsorship scheme - scheme a) above,  need not remit additionally for the other japams.

As paypal does not work for me any more, you have make the remittance only directly via my bank account, or send money via money2india site of icici bank. I will share the details of my account when you get in touch with me via email if you are interested in the participation.  Regular sponsors - who have made remittance to my bank account for earlier austerities may use the same account for this remittance too; once you make the remittance, please keep me informed via email about the remittance particulars for me to follow up with the bank regarding that.


Apart from prayers for the benefit of the sponsors, prayers will also be raised for Universal Welfare. You may also attend poojas/ homams conducted by other pious persons near your place on this holy day.

Those who are not in a position to attend special poojas on Datta jayanthi may still become recipients of His Grace by just repeating the mantra "Om Jai Guru Dattaa" or "Om Jai Satguru Shri DattatrEyaaya namah" as many times as possible on His Jayanthi day - whenever time permits - even in between your normal activities in life. This is a siddha mantra and needs no initiation; anyone without any distinction of class, creed, religion, and gender can recite this at ANYTIME. He is easily pleased and His worship is without unnecessary frills and procedures such that even a child can perform the pooja (because you may do it in any way you wish to do!)

Try to feed at least one poor person or sponsor annadhaan at any holy place as per your capacity - because Guru Dattatreya might come in any form and accept annadhaan, and performing annadhaan to needy persons is one of the easiest ways to become recipients of His Grace.

May our members become recipients of Lord DattatrEyaa's Grace by observing simple austerities in His Honour on His Jayanthi day as per their convenience and enjoy blissful lives.

Blessed be.

Pandit R.DAKSHINAMOORTHI
Astrological and Remedial consultant
dakshinastrologer@rediffmail.com

Utpanna Ekaadasi -December 8/ December 9, 2023

Dear Members:

The auspicious Utpanna Ekaadasi falls on December 8/ December 9  this year (2023).

The fast schedule for different places on the earth:

Utpanna ekaadashi must be observed in USA, Canada and other countries of North and South American continents, all countries of Europe, all countries of Africa, and countries of Asian continent to the west of India (including Pakistan, Afghanistan, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, etc.) on December 8, 2023.

Those living in North, Northwestern, and central parts of India (Jammu, Kashmir, Punjab, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Coastal Karnataka, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Telengana, etc.) and observing smaartha traditions must observe this on December 8, 2023.

Those living in the above regions of India, and observing Vaishnava traditions must observe the fast on December 9, 2023.

Those living in other parts of India (Tamil Nadu, Kerala, South Karnataka/ Central Karnataka including Bangalore, AP, and other eastern states of India like Orissa, Bengal, etc.) must observe this on December 9, 2023.

Those living in rest of the world (all countries to the east of India) must observe this on December 9, 2023.

This Utpanna Ekaadasi is special because this was the day when Ekaadasi Devi - the Patron Deity of this Fast manifested from the Power of Lord Mahaa Vishnu.

Mura - a demon brought all the planes of existence under his control and forced the demi-gods like Indra away from their positions of authority. The devas approached Lord Mahaadeva for a solution to their predicament. Lord Shiva instructed them to claim protection by surrendering to Lord Maha Vishnu. The demi-gods accordingly approached the Holy Abode of Shriman Naaraayana, praised Him with devotional fervour extolling His virtues, His Divine Might, and His Glories, and requested His help in the matter of vanquishing the demon Mura.

Lord Vishnu instructed them to advance to the abode of the demon, and Himself went along with them. The demi-gods scattered away from the battle-field on meeting with relentless aggression from the demon army. The attacking demons met their nemesis in Shriman Naaraayana - who vanquished hosts and hosts of demons with His Divine Weaponry.

At last, the chief of the demons - Mura himself came to meet our Lord in the battle field. The Divine Weapons caused no harm to Mura due to his previous boons. At last, Lord Vishnu decided to engage the demon in arm-to-arm combat; this combat went on for one thousand celestial years! Lord Vishnu decided to retire from the battle and retired to a deep cave. (He feigned tiredness and fear! Though the Bhavishya Uttara Purana uses words such as "I went there (to a cave) out of fear and also to sleep,"we should take it as our Lord's Play only. Lord Maha Vishnu - the Ultimate Supreme Being need not be "afraid" of a demon, nor can he ever feel "tired". This was a Divine Play to vanquish the demon in a special way, and He must have feigned tiredness and fear....only this can be the right interpretation of this episode).

The demon Mura followed Lord Vishnu, and on seeing Him asleep, the demon decided to finish Him off. However, from the body of Our Lord, a young Divine Maiden manifested, and She fought tirelessly with the demon, and ultimately vanquished him, putting an end to the saga of his unrighteous domination over the Universe.

The Divine Maiden pleaded a boon from Lord Vishnu upon His Waking up (His sleep and Waking up again are all Divine Plays! It should not be taken too literally).

The maiden said, "O Lord, if You are pleased with me and wish to give me a boon, then give me the power to deliver that person who fasts of this day from even from the greatest of sins . I wish that half the pious credit obtained by one who fasts will accrue to one who eats only in the evening (abstaining from grains and beans), and that half of this pious credit will be earned by one who eats only at midday. Also, may one who strictly observes a complete fast on my appearance day, with controlled senses, go to the abode of Lord Vishnu for one billion kalpas after he has enjoyed all kinds of pleasures in this world. This is the boon I desire to attain by Your mercy, my Lord, O Lord Janardana, whether a person observes complete fasting, eats only in the evening, or eats only at midday, please grant him a religious attitude, wealth, and at last liberation."

"'The Supreme Lord said, "O most auspicious lady, what you have requested is granted. All My devotees in this world will surely fast on your day, and thus they will become famous throughout the three worlds and finally come and stay with me in My abode. As you, My transcendental potency, have appeared on the eleventh day of the waning moon, let your name be Ekaadasi. If a person fasts on Ekaadasi, I will burn up all his sins and bestow upon him My transcendental abode."

Ekaadasi fast is thus the greatest of all fasts as it was sanctioned by the Supreme Lord Himself. Fasting on ekaadasi properly helps a person to vanquish all the dangerous enemies who can threaten one's prospects (the greatest enemies are a person's own undesirable vaasanaas, and obsessions which are internalized in the person's psyche. That is the actual mystic import of this legend though it might have occurred in reality also in a distant kalpa!), and thus bless the person with material prosperity while alive, and Eternal Salvation after this incarnation on earth.

The day when Lord Vishnu's Yogic power manifested outwardly as Ekaadashi is Utpanna Ekaadashi. By tradition, a child who attains 7th year of age in this life is initiated into Ekaadashi fast gradually beginning from this Utpanna Ekaadashi of that year(the first fast of a tender child should not be too intense; the child should be taught the basics of ekaadashi fast like abstaining from certain foods - grains, beans, and outside food; chanting Divine Names of Lord Vishnu; the child should not be made to endure a full fast - rather, the child should be trained to survive on fruits/ juices, milk, etc., or just made to skip meals once. Then gradually, the child can graduate to a full fast if it agrees well with the child). This is an auspicious day to begin ekaadasi fast as a life-time discipline for anyone who has not fasted before, but wishes to do so in the future. [More guidelines about ekaadasi fast can be checked in previous write-ups in this blog].

The glory of a fast on this Holiest of Days need not be elaborated any further. May our members enjoy Divine Bliss by observing this Holy Ekaadasi fast to the extent of their abilities. My best wishes to the Faithful parents who are about to initiate their young children who have attained the eligible age for beginning Ekaadashi fast on this Holy Day. Believe me - initiating a child into Ekaadasi fast is one of the best gifts you can give to your child :) 

Blessed be.

Pandit R.DAKSHINAMOORTHI
Astrological and Remedial consultant

Utthaana Ekaadashi / Hari Prabodhini Ekaadasi 2023

 

Dear Members:



Utthaana ekaadashi falls on November 23, 2023 this year.  It is to be observed on the same day throughout the world.

This ekaadashi is also known Devouthaani ekaadashi and Hari PrabhOdhini Ekaadashi (capital "O" indicates that this is to pronounced as long vowel sound as per standard transliteration schemes for sanskrit words).




The Kaartika dwaadashi - the day of ending this HariprabhOdhini fast is also the day when chaturmaasya austerities are to be terminated. It is to be noted that Lord Vishnu - who begins His Yoga Nidra on sayani Ekaadashi gets up on Utthaana Ekaadasi and hence this ekaadasi is very special to all devotees. (This is one of the few mandatory fasts that are to be observed at least minimally by EVERYONE).



The glory of HariprabhOdhini ekaadashi has been explained in detail in Skanda Puraana. To summarise those - "Offering yellow colour flowers to Lord Vishnu is very auspicious on that day. One who fasts the whole day extinguishes the sins accumulated over several past births. One who remains awake the whole night and sings/ listens to the glory of Lord Vishnu will enjoy the merit that can be accumulated by donating valuable things like horses and elephants and performing an elaborate vedic yagna. One who recites at least a portion of a sacred scripture on this day will gain the merit of GOdhaana (gift of cows to a qualified Brahmin). It is said that all places of pilgrimage come to reside in the house of a devotee who observes this HariprabhOdhini fast properly.



The ekaadashi fast on Hari PrabhOdhini ekaadasi removes sins even if they are in magnitude as the glorious Meru Mountain; all sins of the devotee who remains awake on the night of Hari PrabhOdhini ekaadasi are burnt just as a cart load of cotton gets reduced to ashes before a mighty fire!"



Please note that ekaadashi fast should be undertaken with permission from one's spiritual preceptor (in case of ladies, husband should be informed of the fast). If you don't have a spiritual preceptor, (in case of ladies - if husband is abroad or away from you, or in case of widows/ unmarried women) - you may stand before the Sun and declare you intent of the fast (assuming Lord Sun as your Guru). Similarly, the fast should be broken in front of the Sun (or after permission of Guru or husband as the case may be).



Tulsi Vivaah is associated with this fast and is celebrated as Brindaavana Dwaadashi; it is to be observed on November 24, 2023 throughout the world.

On Tulsi Vivaah day , one can celebrate the elaborate ritual of marriage of a Tulsi plant with a Salagram idol or any image of Lord Vishnu. This grants great merit to the devotee and gives upliftment to the devotee's whole dynasty (i.e. generations before and those to come after him also!).



Decorating Tulsi plant with turmeric paste, sandalwood paste, and sindhoor; lighting a ghee lamp under Tulsi plant; offering obeisance to it; offering water to it; showing lit camphor as Aarti to it, etc are simple means of worship that can be done by those who cannot afford to perform the elaborate Tulsi Vivaah as per established procedures.



A simple prayer to Tulsi



"Om Brindaa Brindaavanii viswapoojitaa viswapaavani



Pushpasaara Nandinii cha Tulasii Krishnajeevanii"



Recite this at least thrice before Tulsi plant and offer your salutations to Tulsi Maa. This can be done everyday also - but at least on Tulsi Vivaah day known as Brindaavana Dwaadashi.


SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING THIS EKAADASI:

Those who cannot maintain the full fast, may eat just once or twice on this day skipping the mid-day meal or eating only supper at night (i.e. even missing one meal time in honour of this PrabhOdhini fast is considered as fasting though the merits are somewhat less). As this is a mandatory fast, such relaxation has been extended. So, everyone should try to fast on this day - at least by skipping one meal on this day. The meal that is eaten on this day should be free of onions, garlic, non-veg items, chillies, whole grains, etc. You may consume chappatis without much salt, or such simple foods on this day if your physical condition requires you to avoid complete fasts.



Skanda Puraana says that mind should be diverted from money-making ventures and instead focused on charities on this Holy Day. So, you should donate what little you can to vedic experts (genuine experts whom you know to be following rituals and High Spiritual Precepts diligently, and are of noble disposition) on this day. Those who cannot donate anything due to dire financial circumstances should at least have a kind word to speak to an expert vedic practitioner and offer respects to them to get their blessings. Lord Hari Himself will manifest in those Blessings from qualified experts and remove all your sins (a note to spiritual guides who might be reading this: NEVER BLESS ANYONE WITH MATERIAL BOONS ON THIS DAY; JUST SAY "BHAGAVAAN HARI PREETHI SIDDHIRASTHU" - meaning "Let God Hari be satisfied by this!")



May our members enjoy spiritual bliss and removal from karmic burden due to the proper observance of this fast.



Blessed be.




Pandit R.DAKSHINAMOORTHI
Astrological and Remedial consultant

dakshinastrologer@yahoo.co.in

www.kasamba.com/psychic/pandit-dakshinamoorthi

Rama Ekaadasi 2023

Dear Members:

Ramaa Ekaadasi is to be observed on November 8/ November 9, 2023 this year.

Schedule of observance of the fast for people living in different regions of the world:

a) Those living in USA, Canada, and other countries of the North and South American continents, and those living in U.K. and Portugal must observe this on November 8, 2023.

b) Those living in other countries of Europe, and countries of West and North Western parts of African continent and observing Smaartha traditions must observe this on November 8, 2023.

c) Those living in other countries of Europe (except U.K., and Portugal), and those living in countries of Western and Northwestern parts of African continent, and observing Vaishnava traditions must observe this on November 9, 2023.

d) Those living in rest of the world - including India - must observe this on November 9, 2023.

Glory of Ramaa Ekaadasi

In the Brahma vaivarta Puraanaa, there is an interesting legend that is related by Lord Krishna to King Yudhishtra to explain the glory of Ramaa Ekaadasi.

King Muchukunda - a great friend of Indra (the ruler of the Heavens) had a daughter by name Chandrabhaagaa (named after the Holy River that has the same name). She was given in marriage to Shobhanan - the son of King ChandrasEna.

King Muchukunda and all his subjects were very strict in observance of ekaadasi fast. Even horses, elephants, and other cattle were not fed on the day of ekaadasi fast! Once Shobhanan happened to visit King Muchukunda's palace on the day of the auspicious fast of Ramaa Ekaadasi. His wife cautioned him that as his physical condition was then not in a fit condition to tolerate a severe fast, he must move elsewhere (out of her father's kingdom) immediately as her father's people and the whole kingdom followed the fast rigorously (people who undertake rigorous religious fast on ekaadasi never give food to anyone under any pretext on ekaadasi day; this may seem crude and inhuman to some people now - but such was the adherence to ekaadasi fast in those days! The idea was mainly to avoid tempting those who might be fasting but might lose their resolve if offer of food is extended to them).

But Prince Shobhanan offered to undergo the fast instead of opting to move to some other place. When sun set, all devotees of the kingdom were very happy to invite the long night's vigil with Lord Hari's stories and contemplation - but Prince Shobhanan was miserable as he could not tolerate the rigour of the fast. By next morning, he was found dead. The last rites of the dead prince were conducted duly with all honours.

The deceased Prince Shobhanan became the ruler of a kingdom in Mandaraachalaa attended by wonderful Divine damsels, and Gandharvaas, due to the merit of the observance of Ramaa Ekaadasi; but, as he had observed the vrat only due to pressure of circumstances and with half-heart, that wonderful kingdom was impermanent (i.e. he will lose Sovereignity of that kingdom once the merit gets exhausted).

One day, a pious Brahmin from the kingdom of Muchukunda chakravarti happened to cross that wonderful kingdom that was being enjoyed by Prince Shobhana, and he recognized his king's son-in-law. Prince Shobhana related the fact about his enjoyment of that wonderful kingdom was not permanent, and that it may vanish any time into thin air once his merit gets exhausted. He also entreated the pious Brahmin to explain this to his wife Chandrabhaagaa.

The pious brahmin returned to his kingdom and related the wonderful matter to Princess Chandrabhaagaa. At first she was bewildered, and wondered if the Brahmin had been dreaming; but, as the Brahmin persisted with his narration, she was convinced about the factual existence of such a kingdom and was overjoyed at the prospect of being able to meet her beloved yet again. She confidently said that by the merit of the ekaadasis that she had been observing from her 8th year of life till date, the kingdom that has come into the possession of her husband could become permanent, and requested the brahmin to take her to that wonderful kingdom. The Brahmin also took her to the Mandaraachala mountain. At the foothills, they met the great sage Vaama DEvaa who chanted vedic mantras and sprinkled water on her - making her body transcendental. Due to the power of the vedic mantras and also due to the merit of her ekaadasi fasts, Chandrabhaaga reached the top of the mountain Mandaraachalaa where her husband was enjoying his kingdom. She transferred the merit that she had accumulated by all her ekaadasi fasts to her husband thus enabling him to enjoy that wonderful kingdom permanently till the next pralayaa.

Lord Krishna concluded this narration saying that by the glory of Ramaa ekaadasi Prince Shobhanan enjoyed a wonderful Divine Kingdom in the mount Mandaraachalaa. The Blessed Lord continues saying "Just as both white and Black cow give the same quality of milk, the ekaadasis in both the dark and bright fortnight are equal in their potency to confer merit, and to liberate one from the endless cycles of transmigration of soul. Anyone who hears this legend about Ramaa ekaadasi will also have freedom from sins and attain the Divine Abode of Lord Vishnu."

The import of the legend of Brahma vaivarta Puraanaa related above is that observing Ramaa Ekaadasi can help one to enjoy good fortune including high status of a permanent nature, happy reunion with relatives, and great glory.

May our members observe this auspicious ekaadasi to the best of their abilities with FULL FAITH (unlike the half-hearted attempt of Prince Shobhanan!), and become worthy recipients of Divine Grace.

Important note: Though the legend says about how the Prince Shobhanan observed the fast in a physically infirm condition and hence met his death, and then ultimately enjoyed a Divine Kingdom, we need not take it that far! As regular readers of this blog might be aware from previous posts, ekaadasi fast is exempted for those who are ailing, for the aged persons, and for ladies who are pregnant. This is in agreement with accepted dharma shastraic doctrines. Those who cannot observe a full fast may observe it to the extent possible - like fasting by drinking milk, fruit juices, etc. Even those who are exempted the full fast due to physical conditions must avoid onion, garlic, and other spicy foods that are ritually impure on ekaadasi days. Ekaadasi is the king among the Fasts, and one should be regulated in food habits (even if physical condition does not permit total abstinence from food and water). Please remember this important point and observe the fast in the way that is possible for you according to your circumstances.

May our members observe this ekaadasi as far as feasible and get the spiritual/ mundane benefits associated with this fast.

Harihi Om

Om Namah shivaya.

Blessed be

Pandit R. DAKSHINAMOORTHI.

Paashankusha ekadasi 2023

Paashaankusha ekaadasi falls on October 24/October 25, 2023

Schedule of observance of this austerity:

Those living in US, Canada, and other places of North and South American continents, and those living in countries of Europe, and observing "Smartha traditions must observe this on October 24, 2023.

Those living in the above places and adhering to Vaishnava traditions must observe this on October 25, 2023.

Those living in other parts of the world - including India - must observe this on October 25, 2023.

Form of Shri Vishnu to be worshipped on this day - Lord Ananta Padmanaabha (see the picture above of Trivandrum Ananta Padmanabha swamy).

Importance of Paashaankusha ekaadasi

Paashaankusha ekaadasi will help in removing all sins just like any other ekaadasi. Apart from that, one who observes Paashaankusha ekaadasi will be able to realize all his/ her heart-felt dreams, and enjoy other benefits like freedom from vices (addictive behaviours of any kind that are detrimental to our well-being - both physical and spiritual), freedom from chronic karmic diseases, and finally moksha (liberation from cycle of births at the end of this incarnation). So, irrespective of what your goal in life is - whether it is dharma (great goals that have tinge of duty-consciousness in them!), artha (money), kaama (mundane desires like progenic bliss, good family life, etc.) or Moksha (Final Liberation from cycle of births), this ekaadasi will aid you in realization of that goal.

Brahma Vaivarta Puraanaic accounts attribute the merits of this Paashaankusa ekaadasi observance as equal to that acquired by performing numerous yagnas! Performing social service of some kind, or helping other souls in distress on this day is believed to help in realization of one's own true spiritual self.

Maybe, you may clean the street in which you live, and gain merit out of it (you can make sweeping the street as a spiritual activity by inwardly visualizing as if you are clearing your mental impurities also while outwardly you are cleaning the impurities on the street; pray to God that just as you are cleaning the street outside with the broom, the merit acquired by this social service should give you the will power to sweep your subconscious off sinful thoughts/ impure vaasanaas of the mind)....Just one idea of what sort of service you can do on this holy day!

May our members observe this ekaadasi and become recipients of Divine Grace.

PLEASE NOTE that those who have observed intense fast schedule during navarathri MAY OPTIONALLY go easy on this ekaadasi fast - especially those who are slowly easing into normal dietary routines - gradually increasing intake of food from day to day.  Even such people - IF their physical condition permits, can observe this fast too...BUT, if your physical condition after coming out of the intense fast does not permit you to observe this fast rigorously, don't feel guilty about going easy on this one ekaadasi.


Blessed be.
Pandit R DAKSHINA MOORTHI.

Rahu/ Ketu Peyarchi on October 31, 2023

This is about the transit of mean nodes of the Moon (Rahu/ Ketu). Rahu will transit through Meena and Ketu will transit through Kanya rashi from October 31, 2023 to May 19, 2025 taking Chitra Paksha Ayanamsa for calculations.

Why different dates are shown for this peyarchi and which is correct?

You might find different dates for transit on the web - some because they follow vaakya panchanga without the relevant correction as recommended by siddhanta works in astrology and thus may give the Rahu-ketu peyarchi on a different date (some temples observed it on October 8, 2023 itself). But, for astrological purposes, it is more correct to consider the mean node for transit calculations - which is what we have done and which is what drig ganitha based almanacs will also suggest. Based on such reckoning, Rahu-ketu peyarchi (transit) is on October 31, 2023.

EFFECTS OF THIS TRANSIT FOR NATIVES BORN IN DIFFERENT RASHIS

For those born in Mesha rashi (vedic Moon sign in Aries), Rahu transits the 12th house from natal Moon sign while ketu transits the auspicious 6th house from natal Moon sign.

Rahu's transit can cause finance related controversies, unforeseen expenditure, wearisome journeys and heavy workload at work, possible relocation, etc.  Those living abroad and are waiting for crucial work-permits may encounter  few anxieties on that count. Expenditure can mount uncontrollably. Do not latch on to “get-rich-by-night” sort of schemes and prefer stable/ safe investments instead. Be extra-careful while handling mandatory compliance filings as there is the risk of incurring losses arising out of fines/ penalty impositions from enforcement agencies. Try to cultivate healthy aspirations and thoughts; Rahu in the 12^th house can trigger deep-seated complexes/ negativities of the subconscious mind. So, try to surround yourself with positive influences, good thoughts, and healthy life-style concepts so that negativity of the mind is not triggered by external prompts/ associations. Do not let your fears restrict your range of activities; be intelligent and cautious – but not paranoid since Rahu in the 12^th house can sometimes limit your productivity/ achievements by promoting unnecessary reserved tendencies/ uncalled for avoidance of situations.

Ketu's transit influence helps in overcoming rival activity and can promote gains by overcoming tough challenges. This positive influence of Ketu's auspicious transit influence can be felt markedly in the period between May 2024 and May 2025.

REMEDIES SUGGESTED: Offering civet for use in Bhairava sannidhi or donating horse grams to temples, or offering horse-gram delicacies as naivedya after offering pooja to Goddess Kaali at home can help in reducing unnecessary expenditure pattern and in enhancing your courage/ confidence levels.

If you experience bad dreams or inexplicable anxiety, offering earthenware lamp/ brass lamp to your kula Devata temple can help you to feel more grounded and confident - and help to reduce patterns of unexplained and persistent heavy expenditure pattern in your life.

For those born in Rishabha Rashi (Moon sign in Taurus), Rahu transits the auspicious 11th house from natal Moon sign indicating removal of obstacles to auspicious events, success, good gains in business, etc. Ketu's transit over the 5th house can cause some anxiety regarding younger family members, trouble from secret rivals, occasional problems of liquidity for businessmen, and possible ill-health for self or other close family members. If you are a trader in the stock markets, hedge your bets carefully and avoid risking your capital too much in choppy markets.  Sketch your moves, mark clear stop-loss triggers and avoid excess greed in trading activities. Adolescents/ young adults, and those in the 42 to 48 years of age should avoid irresponsible socialization activities that may lead to unnecessary relationship complications. Even if we are good, association with unscrupulous persons may dent our reputation too. Care should be taken in this. This is a good time for getting initiated into taaraka mantras (mantras to help you reach good spiritual planes or even emancipation!). Thus the results are mixed for you. 

REMEDIES SUGGESTED: Donating Dakshinavarti Shankh to a Lakshmi temple, or sponsoring playing of wind/ reed instruments in temples (like Nagaswaram/ Flute performances) can be a good remedy to check the adverse transit of Ketu.

Sponsoring fan/ air-conditioning arrangements in temples/ places of worship or donating palm-leaf fans (hand fans) to devotees in temples will help you to enjoy good financial circulation and avoid liquidity issues.

For those born in Mithuna rashi (vedic moon sign in Gemini), Rahu transits the 10th house from natal Moon sign, while ketu transits the 4th house from natal Moon sign.  Do not be slack in performance of your duties in any way. Even if others seem to be thankless when you do your work properly, just keep going; at the very least, even if you can’t win praise, you can avoid blame when you do your work perfectly. You should guard your reputation zealously as there is possible risk of scandals arising out of undesirable association at work.  Health of self and maternal relatives may also be below par. You should be extra-careful in all activities. Students should avoid unnecessary distractions to get good grades. Career luck will be mediocre and success is possible only with hard and conscientious efforts. If you have not been giving good results and yet your superiors don't pull you up, don't lull yourself into thinking that this can go on for ever...it is possible that silently negative appraisals are being marked and it will be in your best interests to pull your act together so that you don't face adverse down-turn in career situations.

REMEDIES SUGGESTED: Recital of Naaraayani sthuthi – the 11^th chapter of Devi Mahatmyam, or the 12^th chapter from Shrimad Sundara Kaandam of Vaalmiiki Raamayanam version will be helpful to tone down the tough impact of Rahu/ ketu transit for your sign.  Offering silver ornaments or small replicas of Trident or tiny silver utensils or pure silve coins (per your capacity and in tune with the intensity of your issues) to temples or vedic priests can be a good remedy if you encounter tough domestic situations OR legal issues.

For those born in Kataka rashi (Vedic Moon sign in Cancer),Rahu transits the auspicious 9th house giving you unexpected positive outcomes, and good luck arising out of punya karma, and Ketu transits the 3rd house from rashi - which is auspicious and can give you improved self-confidence; adventurous decisions can help you make good gains. So, those born in Kataka  rashi have a good influence based on the transit of nodes this time. You have a good spread of dinner on your tables per the transit of Nodes. This will help in toning down the adverse impact of Saturn (ashtama Sani influences that operate till end of March 2025), and the tough transit of Jupiter between May 2024 and May 2025.

No major remedies needed since the transit influence is basically good for your sign.

 For those born in Simha Rashi (Vedic Moon sign in Leo), Rahu transits the inauspicious 8th house and ketu transits the inauspicious 2nd house from rashi. There could be obstacles to goals, strained relationship with relatives, fruitless journeys or travelling to distant lands, anxieties due to relocation, delay in getting funds released for auspicious purposes, etc. Be very careful while driving vehicles, and leave nothing to chance while handling sensitive assignments.  Try to err on the conservative/ cautious side during this period as things are tricky for you. Those trying for foreign settlement/ career may be saddled with issues arising out of unnecessary Red-tape. So, build up your visa/ GC cases carefully with supporting documentation, and avoid unnecessary/ hasty shift in jobs from one employer to another – especially if your current employer is a reputed organization. Trying to shift jobs and your visa sponsor may sometimes backfire. Look for stability rather than big pay packet - especially if your work-permit situation is shaky.  This is not a time to hit out wildly with blind hope that everything will be alright. The positive transit of Jupiter in the period till May 2024 ,can give slight relief....but don't let down your guard even during these time-windows. 

REMEDIES: Handle mandatory compliance submissions/ tax-filings carefully.

Avoid taking unnecessary occult risks (like careless stepping over materials that have been discarded after drishti-removal on the road, unnecessary careless/ disrespectful debate on subtle spiritual matters, taking up mantras without proper deeksha, unnecessary experimentation regarding spirit communications,  etc.).

Do not raise major loans without proper calculation of your repayment capabilities.

Recite Durga Sapta Slokhi 7 times and offer 7 prostrations on Tuesday/ Friday evenings praying for Divine Assistance in all your endeavours.  

Pray to Lord Hanumaan before taking out vehicles for daily drive and ensure proper maintenance of your vehicle to stay safe.

Light 9 prayer lamps (sesame oil) in front of Lord Hanuman in temples on Tuesdays and offer 5 ghee lamps in Goddess Lakshmi or Goddess Shakti sannidhis on Fridays if you experience any intense difficulty regarding career matters.

For those born in Kanya rashi (vedic Moon sign in Virgo),Rahu transits the 7th house and ketu transits the rashi itself. Transit of both nodes is difficult and much caution is need in all activities. This is further complicated by tough transit of Jupiter till May 2024. Be diplomatic and guarded in your interactions with members of opposite gender, and be careful while taking new medicines. Health may be below par for elderly natives of this sign - including possibility of allergy to medicines or sudden bouts of illness that are not easy diagnosable. Overall, it is a tough transit influence you have on your hands. For single natives of this sign, the positive transit of Jupiter after May 2024, can give hopes regarding finalizing a suitable match if dasa-bhukti influences per the individual chart are supportive.

REMEDIES SUGGESTED:

Be broad-minded in your dealings with close relatives but do not let anyone walk all over you. Maintaining the golden mean and healthy moderation in all matters will help you to stay out of trouble.

Offering prayer lamps in the samadhis of saints and meditating on ascetics of known exalted spiritual stature (like His Holiness Chandrasekara Saraswathy, His Holiness Ugra Narasimha Bharathi, His Holiness Raghavendra Swamy, H.H. Sadasiva Brahmendral, etc.) can help you to be anchored even as life’s challenges threaten to unsettle you. 

Natives of this sign who are troubled by relationship misunderstandings (like spouse misunderstanding self, or self troubled by anxieties regarding stability of relationship) may benefit by worship of Goddess Maatangi or recital of Chapter 36 of Shrimad Sundarakaandam (Vaalmiiki Raamayan version) on Tuesday evenings.

To resolve health issues for self or close family members that are not resolved by conventional treatments, try parikrama seva in the Jeeva Samadhi of saints, OR offer physical seva (like cutting vegetables for the temple kitchen, cleaning temple premises, or whatever volunteering work can be done in a Holy Place), OR donate for annadhaanam at temples or charitable institutions that feed destitute or aged people.

For those born in Tula Rashi (Vedic Moon sign in Libra), Rahu transits the auspicious 6th house from Moon sign giving success over rivals, and success in all activities. Those who try to trap you with their cunning moves may find themselves caught in their own web. Divergent thinking, innovative moves, and creative pursuits will give you success and satisfaction. However, transit of ketu is not auspicious as it is in the 12th house from natal Moon sign. Avoid raising big-ticket loans unless your financial situation is well-hedged.  Those living abroad and working on temporary work-visas may encounter mild complications in renewal of the same.  So, the results will be mediocre - the good and bad results balancing each other out.  In the period between May 2024 and May 2025, transit of Jupiter is positive for you, and there is scope for positive developments with hard efforts and by the punya phala accumulated by charitable and religious activities.

REMEDIES SUGGESTED: Feeding fishes in holy ponds/ flowing rivers with puffed rice, and offering lamps to flowing rivers on auspicious occasions will bring you good luck.

Offering coconuts to temples/ religious persons for performing homams can help reduce unnecessary expenditure and inexplicable worries/ generalized anxiety that you may experience at times.

Offering Chaamara (ritual Fans with silver/ brass handles used during mahaa aaratis) in temples/ jeeva samadhis can help if you are suffering from unnecessary expenses that seem uncontrollable. Alternatively, you may provide for exhaust fans in temple ques or repair chimneys of temple kitchens to get the same result.

For those born in Vrischika rashi (vedic Moon sign in Scorpio), Rahu transits the inauspicious 5th house from natal Moon sign. Women of this sign who are in the family way should undergo regular medical check-ups to rule out complications; relationship with close family members may come under strain. Single natives of this sign must avoid impulsive romantic choices.  Investors must be wary of taking wrong speculative decisions that could tilt the tables against them. However, the transit of Ketu - in the 11th house from Moon sign can give good gains and career progress. Thus both good and not-so-good results are indicated by this transit. Those appearing for competitive examinations, or have critical appraisals coming up must back themselves by taking extra hard efforts. 

REMEDIES SUGGESTED:

Students of this sign can insure against the tricky transit by offering prayers to Goddess Kaali/ Maatangi on Tuesdays/ Navamis or by reciting Hanumaan chaalisa thrice on Tuesdays.

Worship of Goddess Kaali or Durga will help in protecting the well-being of children (and also will be a good safety for pregnant women).

Worship of Lord Adi Varaaha swaamy on Tuesdays can help in removing obstacles pertaining to property transactions.

Offering sandalwood for pooja/ homam in a Perumaal (Shri Vishnu) temple, or volunteering to grind sandalwood paste for poojas/ major homams can help in improving your general good luck.

Visiting samadhi shrines of saints and chanting simple bhajans/ slokhas (or if you are trained in vedic chants – you may recite vedic hymns too) can help to ensure mental peace and spiritual progress.

For those born in Dhanus rashi (vedic Moon sign in Sagittarius),  Rahu transits the inauspicious inauspicious 4th house. Health of elderly relatives - especially mother or mother's father/ mother may cause concern. There could also be relocation related anxieties or wearisome journeys due to professional reasons.  Be very careful if you are planning on purchase/ disposal of property.  Students of this sign must put in extra effort to do well in their studies.

Ketu transiting the 10th house indicates possible good luck in some major projects after strenuous efforts. Though it is not entirely positive, there is still hope for occasional good outcomes due to Ketu's transit influence.  You should look at the long-term impact of job changes you contemplate now, rather than expect immediate positive results. On the whole, the effects can be said to be tough but not entirely unmanageable as Rahu and Ketu give different results based on this transit.

REMEDIES SUGGESTED: Offering special prayers to Goddess Durga on Ashtami days and Amavasya/ Pournami days will help in reducing the malefic impact of Rahu’s transit.

Worship of Lord Varaaha swamy can help in improving luck pertaining to property dealings.

Worship of Goddess Maatangi on Tuesdays and Fridays will help students and those appearing in competitive exams or have to face interview situations (promotion appraisals/ new job offers, etc.). 

For those born in Makara rashi (vedic Moon sign in Capricorn), Rahu transits the auspicious 3rd house from natal Moon which can give good results and long awaited breakthroughs in life. Auspicious events can materialize for those who have been waiting for wedding bells to ring for a long time. You can enjoy very good progress if your work is related to communication sector or involves lot of writing/ networking with others. Your luck can be further enhanced (regardless of your line of work) by taking adventurous decisions. On the flip side, nebulous signals that you give may come to haunt you later, and unethical/ immoral communications with others (like irresponsible online flirtations) could cause danger to hard-gained reputations. Generally those in business or roles that require assertiveness and multi-tasking will do better than those who are employed in stable roles with fixed responsibilities that have no room for negotiation.

Ketu's transit in the 9th house is slightly challenging. This can be tough for health of self, paternal relatives who are elderly, and overseas prospects - while it is also good for spiritual pursuits and visit to Holy Places.  Natives of this sign who have been doing intense austerities for the past many years may be blessed with Divine Manifestations or Experiences that can be life-transforming. Such experiences are more likely between May 2024 and May 2025 when Jupiter’s transit is auspicious for your rashi.

Overall, the effects are mixed for you from a mundane perspective, BUT very positive from a spiritual angle.

REMEDIES SUGGESTED:  Getting blessings of religious preceptors (Aachaaryas of the mutts to which your family owes allegiance traditionally), or blessings of ascetics could be powerful shield for your prospects.  

Whenever situations permit travel to kshetras (pilgrim spots), and chanting vedic hymns/ puranic slokhas at home, or meditating on Saints or ascetic Divine Forms (Like Medha Dakshinamoorthi, Lord Dattatreya, etc.) can help to augment your general good luck, and also bless you with Divine Experiences.

For those born in Kumbha rashi (vedic Moon sign of Aquarius), Rahu transits the inauspicious 2nd house while ketu transits the inauspicious 8th house from natal Moon sign.  Regularity in dietary and sleep routines, besides regulating the type of food consumed can go a long way in protecting your health. You must follow the rules of the road carefully while driving, and also be ready to take avoidance actions if the fools at the wheel of the other vehicles come your way impelled by fate – because there is accident-proneness due to this transit (especially with Ketu in the 8th house from your natal Moon sign). Avoid self-medication at all cost as there is high risk of medicinal allergies.  Also if there are eye infections take immediate medical help and avoid procrastinating on that as eye-problems are strongly indicated during this phase. Watch what you say under all circumstances; there is real risk of spoiling relationships by careless words.  Avoid raising heavy loans for any purpose as far as feasible. Businessmen of this sign must avoid risky ventures and handle the compliance norms related to their activities with alacrity.  Those in service my be troubled by increase in work-load and unrealistic demands from their superiors; these situations must be handled with diplomacy.  Natives of this sign who are in their middle-ages or ages past this stage must exercise responsibility regarding food intake to avoid unnecessary complications arising out of unbridled eating habits.

Remedies suggested: Offer musk/ civet to Bhairava Sannidhi on Ashtami days.  Worship of Goddess Chamundeshwari/ Chandi/ Durga on New Moon days and Tuesdays will help in keeping you safe in all circumstances.  

Worship of Swarna Aakarshana Bhairava on Pournamis can help in ensuring decent financial luck.

Whenever possible participate in community prayers in Honour of Goddess Chandi or in Honour of Guardian Deities of your town (like in collective Chandi homams in temples, or in local temple festivals in Honour of Mariyamman, Yellamma, Osiya Maa, or such other Guardian Deities).

For those born in Meena Rashi (Vedic Moon sign in Pisces) , Rahu transits natal Moon sign while ketu transits the 7th house from natal Moon sign. Rahu transiting the natal Moon sign will impel you to make mistakes due to miscalculations in life/ illusions. You should avoid taking impulsive decisions; domestic peace may be marred by unnecessary arguments/ anxieties due to influence of Ketu on the 7th house from your rashi. Health of self and elderly relatives may cause concern. Avoid chasing illusory goals and spoiling your current situation totally. Be patient, and if you wish to advance your prospects, do so with patience and not merely with blind optimism/ rash false-beliefs interned by looking at the lives of others. Be prepared to handle unexpected developments that may threaten to affect the rhythm of your work now and then. Remember that nothing can upset a person who is prepared and always alert to handle the unexpected events of life.

Remedies suggested: Worship of Lord Vatuka Bhairava (Lord Bhairava as a lad) on Tuesdays,Amavasyas, and Ashtami thithis will help reduce impact of Rahu. Cultivating a matured mental detachment and having an ego-less approach to family situations will help to keep domestic disagreements at bay. Performance of Ucchishta Ganapathy homam can help if there are troubles in marital life, or if there are delays/ inexplicable last-minute drop in alliances for single natives of this sign.  If there are legal issues that threaten to upset your well-being, organizing Chandi Path or performance of Durga Sooktha homam can be powerful remedies.

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Please note that the above results are general and this influence is just one of the many factors that impinge our life...These will be moderated by the effect of transit influences of other major planets and also the directional influences unique to your charts. To some extent I have touched upon the altered influences caused by transit of other major planets in this write-up, but to get the real impact of Rahu-ketu transit unique to your sign it is always best to consult an astrologer who has consistently caught the pulse of your chart correctly and guided you correctly (a family astrologer – like a family doctor is always best in guiding you as long as you have chosen the right person for that important role!; there are some influences that are unique to individuals which an astrologer who is constantly guiding an individual will be better aware of!)

RAHU/KETU PEYARCHI HOMAM AT OUR PLACE (at Bangalore)

Those who are under adverse Rahu-ketu peyarchi influences ( those born under Kumbha, Meena,,Mithuna, Simha, Kanni, and Dhanus rashis should perform remedies to overcome the possible malefic influences of the transit since very sensitive sectors of their lives are triggered by this transit.

Mesha, Tula, Vrishabha, and Vrischika borns may consider the remedies as optional as the transit influences are mixed for them and have transit of at least one of Rahu/ Ketu as highly positive while the other node's transit is negative.  So, you may consider the remedial performances as optional.  No need of any remedy for those born under Kataka, and Makara rashis.

We are organizing special homams on the occasion of this Rahu-ketu peyarchi on October 31, 2023 at our residence at Bangalore.  Mahaa Ganapathy homam, Chaamundi homam, Durga Sooktha homam, Prathiyangira homam, Vatuka Bhairava homam, Rahu beeja homam, ketu Beeja mantra homam will be done on that day. Recital of other sthothrams for preethi of Rahu/ Ketu (in Honour of Adi-Devatas of these Nodes) will also be done as part of the austerities.

The suggested offering for part-sponsorship to take part in that homam performance is Rs.1800(rupees one thousand eight hundred only) or equivalent for inclusion of one person whose rashi is impacted by the transit (This includes those rashis for whom OPTIONAL remedies are indicated). Those who are interested in participating in these for remedial purposes may write to me at: dakshinastrologer@yahoo.co.in with details of the name of the person for whom the remedial performance is desired, their nakshatra, and gothra. Please write "Rahu/ketu transit 2023" in the subject line for my easy tagging of such mails.  Regular clients/ disciples who have participated in austerities under our guidance in the past may make the remittance in favour of our bank account as usual and keep us informed about the same.

Please note that we won’t be sending homam prasadam or holy ash by post due to ritual purity reasons and we are doing this strictly in an in-absentia mode (i.e. without physical participation of anyone in this austerity). The sankalpam taken in your name during the homams will be deemed “in-absentia” participation and the karmic effects of this performance will reach you any way.

So, take part in these austerities ONLY IF this condition (of in-absentia participation) is acceptable to you.

Best regards,

Blessed be.

Pandit R DAKSHINA MOORTHI