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 

Sharada Navarathri 2023

There are 6 Navarathris in Honour of Divine Mother of our Universe - one for each Rithu (season), and this navarathri falling in the sharad rithu is the most important one as it is the one recommended for householders.  So, it is sometimes called "Mahaa Navaraathri."

Navarathri schedule for different parts of the world.

Navaraathri austerities begin from October 15, 2023 throughout the world.

Durga Pooja should be observed on October 22nd, throughout the world.

Mahaa Navami (Saraswathy pooja) is to be observed on  October 22nd itself (on the same day after Durga Ashtami related poojas) by those living in USA, Canada, and other countries of North and South American continents, and those living in countries of Europe continent.  Those living in rest of the world - including India - must observe this on October 23, 2023.

Vijaya Dasami should be celebrated on October 23, 2023 by those living in countries of Europe, African continent, and countries of North and South American continents.  Those living in other parts of the world - including India must observe Vijaya Dasami on October 24, 2023.

Methods of celebrating Navaraathri.

It is traditional to keep "Kolu" - an arrangement of dolls during Navaraathri. This is to signify that Our Divine Mother resides as Inner Soul in all Forms. Some people make the arrangement in such a way that the various steps of the kolu represent the Order of Evolution - like keeping invertebrates and such other forms of lives in the bottom step, keeping dolls representing human life in the middle of the kolu steps, and keeping dolls representing Divine Legends, Dasa Avataars, etc. on the top most step of the kolu arrangement. It is traditional to keep 5 rows (to represent Five Elements of Life), 9 rows (to represent the Nine Forms of Divine Mother), 11 rows (to represent the 11 forms of Lord Rudra), 13 rows (one in Honour of each chapter of Durga Sapta Sati), or 15 Rows (one in Honour of each syllable of Shri Vidhya panchadasaakshari mantra) as per one's convenience; traditionally, people avoid arranging the kolu in 7 rows for sentimental reasons (there is a belief that such an arrangement in 7 rows might affect financial prospects).

I request all our members to perform simple worships as per their convenience during the Navarathri period and become recipients of Divine Grace. This is a period when we Celebrate our Universal Mother - so, that joy should be there in our minds when we observe this austerity (we should not be unnecessarily tensed or make this too complicated with too many taboos! One does not think of protocols when approaching one's mother - but just go with the moment with unbounded joy and affection; such should be our attitude when we worship Our Universal Mother during this period - assuming we are all Her Children and we are invoking Her Presence in our homes - celebrating this with affectionate respect and joy).

Recital of Lalitha Sahasranaamam, Dasa Mahaa vidhya sthothrams, simple Devi sthothrams, Abhiraami Andhaadhi, Lalitha Anubooti, Soundarya Lahiri, Dugra Sthothram, Chandi Path (Durga Saptasathi), etc. can be auspicious during this period.

During this period, we should consider all women as Forms of Divine Mother and treat them with courtesy and respect. One who observes the Navarathri austerities intensely, but insults women knowingly/ unknowingly does not get the benefit of the austerities. Remember this, and treat women (including those in your own family) with affection and respect [Ideally that should be the case always! Because Shastras say that where virtuous women are honoured, Divine Grace visits even in an uninvited manner! This is the reason why women should take special care to safeguard their basic dignity, be affectionate and gentle in dealings with family members, avoid letting corrupting thoughts/ behaviour patterns enter their life styles, etc. in an attempt to maintain their Divine nature that is intrinsic to them; All higher forms of lives spring from the feminine gender of the species, and a virtuous woman is a living Form of the Universal Mother - and can be a source of happiness and Grace to herself and to everyone who is blessed enough to move with her).

Those who have Tulsi plant in their houses, can offer prostrations to that Divine Plant and pray for prosperity and Divine Grace in its vicinity. (All the Holy Rivers are in subtle forms in the roots of the tulsi plant; All Divine Forms are manifest in the middle portion of the Tulsi plant, and All Vedas and Holy Scriptures are manifest in the tips of the Tulsi plant, as said in the Puranas).

Offering Go-Poojaa (prayers to Cow visualized as embodiment of all Divinities) on Fridays and Tuesdays of Navarathri period can give unlimited merit.

It is also auspicious to read a small portion of Divine Legends that depict how the Gracious and Kind Mother Manifested in Angry Forms to annihilate all enemies to peaceful life on Earth every night during this navaraathri period, and invoke such Manifestation of Power in our lives also to annihilate all our enemies (both intrinsic like anger, greed, laziness, and ignorance within us, and our external enemies/ unruly elements who try to disturb peaceful and gentle citizens in the society unnecessarily).

Recital of Chandi Paaraayanam is a powerful remedy not merely for our families but for ensuring peace in the land where we live in. In fact, if austere persons of Faith keep reciting the Chandi Path and Shri Rudram regularly, and if there are many of them in a land, shastras proclaim that the elements of nature's Fury like floods, pestilence, droughts, etc. will never harm that land and prosperity will rein in that land. So, it is partly our duty as Universal Citizens to offer special worship to Divine Mother during this period and pray for relief to all the distressed souls who have been harassed much by natural calamities in various parts of the world, and also pray for peace throughout the world in these troublesome days where you can never read a newspaper without coming across some inauspicious event/ mishap in one corner or other of the earth.  

SPECIAL WORSHIPS AT MY PLACE DURING NAVARATHRI.

As usual special worships will be done in this regard at my residence (Bangalore).

The part-sponsorship of each day's austerities (beginning from early morning till night.....Ganapathy homam, Laghu chandi homam, recital of Devi Mahaatmyam, Lalitha Sahasranaamam, Soundarya Lahiri sthothras, Dasa Mahaa Vidhya japams, Select sthothrams on Devi, etc.) is Rs.5000 (rupees five thousand only) for one day's part-sponsorship. Those who wish to be part-sponsors for more than one day's rituals are also welcome to do so.

Mahaa chandi homam is planned on October 24, 2023.

The part-sponsorship for this Mahaa chandi homam on October 24, 2023 is Rs.36000 (rupees thirty six thousand only) - all costs inclusive - including cost of gold coin, silver coin, silk saree, rare herbs, and other pooja articles to be offered in the Mahaa Poornaahuti.

If you wish to be part-sponsor of the austerities of the entire period - right from October 15, 2023 till October 24, 2023  the suggested offering is Rs.81000 (Rupees Eighty one  thousand only).

*Please note that we will not be shipping any prasad or pooja article by post to any participant.  Due to current corona induced restrictions, anyone who wishes to be a part-sponsor of these has to avail it in-absentia only; our taking your name in the sankalpam is deemed in-absentia participation, and the karmic effects of the performance will accrue to you by that though you don't actually receive the physical prasadams.**

Those who wish to participate in these austerities may write to me through my email-id: dakshinastrologer@yahoo.co.in (or dakshinastrologer@rediffmail.com) with the subject line "Part-sponsorship of Navarathri homams 2023"

Members of our group who have already availed such services in the past and know my bank account details through which they made remittances earlier may directly make the remittance in favour of that icici account as earlier, and keep me informed through email.


Even those who are unable to offer sponsorships for these rituals need not feel let down; prayers are offered for Universal Welfare at the end of each day's austerities, in addition to the prayer for specific special sponsors, and the prayer for Universal Welfare covers everyone - including you!

May Divine Mother Bless us all.

Blessed be.

Pandit R. DAKSHINAMOORTHI

dakshinastrologer@yahoo.co.in

Indira Ekaadasi 2023

Dear Members:

Indira Ekaadasi is the Ekaadasi that occurs during the Mahalaya paksha / pitru paksha. It is to be observed on October 9th/ October 10th this year (2023).

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

1) Those living in USA, Canada, and other countries of North and South American continents must observe this on October 9th.

2) Those living in other parts of the world - including India - must observe this on October 10th.

IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT EKAADASHI SHRARDHA for those living in European countries, and those living in India and other countries to the West of Indian subcontinent:

Though the Indira Ekaadasi fast is to be observed only on October 10, 2023 by those living in Europe, South West Asia (countries of the middle-east), African continent, and countries of the Indian sub-continent, the Shraardha of the pitru paksha corresponding to Ekaadashi thithi must be observed in these places on October 9, 2023 itself.  

Those living in countries to the east of India will observe both Ekaadasi vrata (upavaasam) and the pitru paksha shraardha thithi of Ekaadasi on October 10, 2023.  Kindly note this...

IMPORTANCE OF INDIRA EKAADASI.

The importance of Indira Ekaadasi is explained in the Brahma vaivarta Puraana in a discussion between Lord Krishna and king Yudhishtra. Observance of this Ekaadasi will help in removing the sinful effects of actions done by oneself and also relieve deceased ancestors' souls from the remorse caused by their sinful actions when they lived on this earth. According to legends, King IndrasEnaa performed this fast on the advice of Devarishi Narada and saved his father from the remorse caused by his sins during his earthly life.

On the day before the observance of this ekaadasi fast, i.e. on dasami thithi, just one meal is eaten praying for ancestors' souls; on the Ekaadasi day a full fast is to be undertaken, and in the afternoon rituals for the satisfaction of pitrus are to be done; the fast is broken on dwaadasi day. If such an elaborate scheme is not feasible, you may just fast as usual on Ekaadasi day, and pray for peace of your pitrus' souls after the Ekaadasi pooja to Vishnu. What else can you do for you ancestors than undertaking this fast that can relive their souls of the burden/ remorse caused by sinful activities committed knowingly or unknowingly during their tenure on this earth?

Please note that this fast is not mandatory for those below 7 years/ above 70 years as is the common rule for Ekaadasi fasts. Similarly those who are sick and ladies who are pregnant are also exempt from this observance. Others should preferably undertake a full fast (abstaining even from water, if possible). Those who can't undertake such rigorous fasts due to practical circumstances should at least avoid all full-grains, onion/ garlic items, eating food outside, etc. and try to subsist on milk and fruits. The bottom line is - observe the fast to the best of your abilities and as best as your circumstances will permit the observance.  Remember that this is the best homage you can pay to your deceased ancestors.

May our members observe this wonderful fast and gain liberty from sinful karma not only for themselves but also for their ancestors!

Blessed be.

Pandit R.DAKSHINAMOORTHI
Astrological and Remedial consultant
dakshinastrologer@yahoo.co.in

https://www.kasamba.com/psychic/pandit-dakshinamoorthi