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December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 1
CONTENTS
The Art of Responding
Effectively…......................2
Verse of the Month..........5
Pari-praçna..........................6
Quiz Corner........................6
Analogy Arena...................7
Bhägavata Praväha...........8
A Monthly E-Magazine from the Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha with Illuminating Perspectives on the Srimad-Bhagavatam
December 2018 | Issue 18
Dedicated to His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedänta Swämi Prabhupäda,
Founder-Äcärya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness
Turning Crisis into
Opportunities
The Art of
RESPONDING
EFFECTIVELY
December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 2
Our actual duty is to carry out the supreme order of the Personality of Godhead. If we
are fixed in our determination to carry out the supreme order of the Lord, we are always
secure, regardless of where we are situated, whether in hell or in heaven. (5.1.19 P)
King Uttänapäda had two wives, Sunéti and Suruci.
He loved his younger wife Suruci, but neglected
Sunéti. One day, Uttänapäda was sitting on his
throne with Suruci's son Uttama, on his lap. Then
Sunéti's son Dhruva also came there desiring to sit on
father’s lap, but Uttänapäda didn’t welcome him.
Suruci then spoke to Dhruva proudly, that because
he was not born from her womb, he was not
qualified to sit on his father’s lap.
The childhood innocence of Dhruva didn’t see any
distinction between Suruci and Sunéti, but the
envious attitude of Suruci showed him such
difference. By worshiping the Supreme Lord, one can
become free from the cycle of birth and death. But
arrogant Suruci told Dhruva that he could take birth
in her womb by worshiping the Lord. Such is the
nature of pride.
It’s best to act appropriately in a situation rather than regret later!
It’s better to regret for one’s poor response rather than justifying it!
It’s worse to justify one’s impulsive act and deny responsibility for its result!
Did someone ever mistreat you? Did you ever hurt
someone? How had been your response in either case?
A sensitive heart regrets when one fails to respond
sensitively. Having said or done something that pained
someone or yourself, one often thinks, “Oh I could
have been polite!” “Maybe I should not have taken it
so seriously!” “Alas! I overreacted, I misunderstood!”
But learning to respond appropriately in a situation can
turn crisis into great opportunities.
by Gauranga Darshan Das
The Art of
RESPONDING EFFECTIVELY
Turning Crisis into Opportunities
Poor Responses of a Weak Heart
One reacts impulsively at times, due to the heat of
situations or lack of maturity. Even if one knows
what is right and what is wrong, one’s weaknesses do
not allow one to act aptly. The heart’s weakness is
often due to egoistic pride, undue attachments and
unfair obligations.
December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 3
An intelligent devotee doesn't ask the Supreme Lord for anything material. His
only prayer is: mama janmani janmanéçvare bhavatäd bhaktir ahaituké tvayi. He
wants to be engaged perpetually in the loving service of the Lord. (SB 5.3.15 P)
A child naturally deserves affection from an elder.
No elder refuses to fondle a child when the child
himself approaches for it. What to speak of a father
and a king? A father is supposed to treat all his
children equally. And a king’s responsibility is to
take care of all his citizens equally. Uttänapäda was
both a king and a father, but failed to treat his two
sons, Uttama and Dhruva equally. His favoritism
towards Suruci made him indifferent to Dhruva and
ignore his duty as a father. He did not even stop
Suruci who was unnecessarily outrageous.
His innocent desire being thwarted, Dhruva was
disappointed. Further, the insulting words of his
stepmother and the silence of his father broke his
tender heart.
An earthen pot, once broken, is not reusable. Even if
one manages to put the broken pieces of the pot
together and makes it usable again, one has to be
extremely careful in handling that pot, much more
than a new pot. Any slight mishandling of such a
repaired pot breaks it and makes it irreparable.
Relationships are also like that. If one is not sensitive
in dealings, that could break someone’s heart
permanently. 	
Just Response of a Devoted Heart
Hissing like a snake, Dhruva went to his mother Sunéti,
crying. Sunété was already in pain, being neglected by
her husband. Now she became devastated to see her
child insulted by her co-wife.
Being a glorious lady and a devotee of Lord Kåñëa,
Sunété spontaneously pacified Dhruva with wise words
to avoid any negative feelings to overcome him. She
told him three things in particular, “(i) Never desire
harm for others who might have caused you pain, (ii)
Everyone suffers due to one’s own past deeds, (iii)
Whatever may be your desire, to fulfill that, you need
to worship the Supreme Lord.”
tam eva vatsäçraya bhåtya-vatsalaà
mumukñubhir mågya-padäbja-paddhatim
ananya-bhäve nija-dharma-bhävite
manasy avasthäpya bhajasva püruñam
Sunéti told Dhruva, “My dear boy, you also should
take shelter of the Supreme Personality of Godhead,
who is very kind to His devotees. Persons seeking
liberation from the cycle of birth and death always
take shelter of the lotus feet of the Lord in devotional
service. Becoming purified by executing your allotted
occupation, just situate the Supreme Personality of
Godhead in your heart, and without deviating for a
moment, engage always in His service.” (4.8.22)
Situations are not within our control, but our response
is. Thus, instead of accusing Suruci or Uttänapäda,
Sunété maturely directed Dhruva towards Lord
Väsudeva. When others hurt us, it is difficult to see
any good in their words or actions. But Sunéti told
Dhruva that Suruci was correct in saying that ‘one
should worship the Supreme Lord to fulfill one’s
desires.’ Sunéti valued this statement more and ignored
to react to all the other offensive statements of Suruci.
Çréla Prabhupäda writes, “Both the mother and the son
were lamenting Dhruva Mahäräja’s having been
insulted by his stepmother and his father’s not having
taken any step on this issue. But mere lamentation is
useless-one should find out the means to mitigate one’s
Our good consciousness can positively
influence others, while our poor attitude
can negatively affect others.
December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 4
The impersonal feature of the Absolute Truth is but His radiation,
as the sun rays are but radiations from the sun. (SB 2.2.11 P)
The intelligence that identifies one’s own
faults is wonderful, the heart that repents for
them is glorious, and the conscience that
endeavors not to repeat them is admirable.
lamentation. Thus both mother and son decided to
take shelter of the lotus feet of the Lord because that
is the only solution to all material problems.” (SB
4.8.24 P)
Blaming, arguing and lamenting are natural in
calamity, but one should surpass that stage to
maturely consider what best could one do in such a
situation. And the best thing to do always is to seek
God’s shelter, apart from doing whatever else is
humanly possible. One can be hopeful in the most
hopeless situation by taking shelter of Kåñëa.
Our good consciousness can positively influence
others, while our poor attitude can negatively affect
others. We can see this contrast between the
characters of Sunéti and Suruci.
Having heard from his mother that Supreme Lord
Kåñëa fulfills all of one’s desires, Dhruva left home to
worship Him. However, due to the insult done by
Suruci, he developed an ambitious desire to attain a
position superior to his father and even Lord Brahmä.
He was so ambitious for this position that he didn’t
even accept the advice of Närada Muni to return
home. Finally, Närada instructed him to chant, “Om
namo bhagavate väsudeväya,” to attain his goal.
Dhruva then practiced bhakti with great deter-
mination and in six months, he attained the darçana of
Lord Viñëu, who blessed him in various ways.
Honest Regret After an Unjust
Response
When little Dhruva went to the forest alone,
Uttänapäda lamented for his hardhearted behavior
towards Dhruva and Sunéti. It was not that Uttänapäda
didn’t have affection for Dhruva. He certainly loved his
son. But due to his excessive attachment towards
Suruci, he couldn’t welcome Dhruva or stop Suruci
from chastising Dhruva. He honestly regretted for his
misdeed. He condemned himself for being a henpecked
husband and an irresponsible father. But by this time,
Dhruva had already left home!
Some errors are irreversible. We can’t always undo
something even if we realize that what we did was
inappropriate. Sometimes, although we realize our
mistake, and try to rectify, that opportunity has
already slipped out of our hands. For instance, after
a student has just come out of the examination hall
submitting his mathematics answer sheet, even if he
realizes that he had used a wrong formula to solve a
problem, he can’t rectify it anymore. Similarly, even
if a cook realizes that he has put more salt than
required in a preparation, he can’t undo it. Having
responded with a wrong answer in the interview, an
employment seeker cannot go back and prove his
knowledge in front of the interviewer.
Wasted time will not come back, and spoken words
cannot be taken back. Thus one should be learn to
act appropriately on the spur of the moment. That is
best.
But the good news is that there is a second-best
thing. One can remember one’s mistakes and be
cautious not to repeat them in future. Having failed
in an exam, a student can be more careful in the next
exam. Having spoiled a preparation, a cook can
make it better the next day. But the impetus to
improve oneself comes from an honest repentance
for one’s mistakes and sincere efforts to rectify them.
December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 5
The more one makes advancement in devotional service, the more one
becomes detached from material opulence and material activity. (SB 4.13.9 P)
Uttänapäda started treating Sunéti with love. When
Dhruva returned after attaining benedictions from
Lord Viñëu, Uttänapäda received him with warmth
and affection. Noble hearted Sunéti didn’t hold any
grudges towards Suruci or Uttama, but took them in
the same palanquin as herself. Even Suruci gave up her
inimical attitude towards Dhruva, and blessed him to
live long. Dhruva gave up his grudge towards Suruci
and bowed down at her feet. Dhruva gave up his anger
towards Uttama and hugged him. When Dhruva grew
up, Uttänapäda made him the king.
Bhakti Makes One Respond
Appropriately
Suruci acted impulsively due to pride and envy.
Uttänapäda acted imprudently due to attachment to
wife. Dhruva acted obstinately due to material
ambition. Sunéti acted maturely due to her devotion to
Lord Kåñëa.
Because Sunéti herself was a great devotee, she could
inspire Dhruva to take to devotional service. Although
Dhruva was ambitious, because he received the
guidance of great devotees like Sunéti and Närada, he
bhaktià muhuù pravahatäà tvayi me prasaìgo
bhüyäd ananta mahatäm amaläçayänäm
yenäïjasolbaëam uru-vyasanaà bhaväbdhià
neñye bhavad-guëa-kathämåta-päna-mattaù
O unlimited Lord, kindly bless me so that I may associate
with great devotees who engage in Your transcendental
loving service constantly, as the waves of a river
constantly flow. Such transcendental devotees are
completely situated in an uncontaminated state of life. By
the process of devotional service I shall surely be able to
cross the nescient ocean of material existence, which is
filled with the waves of blazing, firelike dangers. It will be
very easy for me, for I am becoming mad to hear about
Your transcendental qualities and pastimes, which are
eternally existent. (4.9.11)
VERSE OF THE MONTH
HARI-
DÄSA-
VARYA
was purified and elevated. Although Uttänapäda
neglected his glorious wife and son, he honestly
repented for his misdeeds and took to good behavior
soon. Although Suruci was envious and proud, the
kindness of Sunéti and spiritual success of Dhruva
brought positive transformation in her.
Thus it is bhakti, or devotional service unto Lord
Kåñëa, that ultimately brings about ideal
transformation in a person and makes one respond
suitably in different situations. All our chanting,
hearing and other devotional practices should make
us act appropriately on the spur of the moment. That
may not happen overnight, but a sincere practice of
bhakti, helps one – (i) identify where one needs to
improve, (ii) sincerely desire to overcome those
shortcomings, (iii) pray for improvement, (iv) seek
guidance, (v) cultivate right intentions, and (vi)
endeavor to act sensitively and wisely.
It’s a wonderful journey that all of us need to take up
in lives, from an impulsive negative response to
spontaneous positive response in trying situations.
Whether the journey is long or short depends on how
sincere are we to travel under wise guidance and
sincere practice on the path of devotion.
Please Give Me the
Association of Devotees
December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 6
The only way to understand the Lord as He is, is by devotional service to the
Lord, or by approaching the devotee of the Lord who always has the Lord in
his heart. (SB 3.9.3 P)
Mail your caption to pradipika@vidyapitha.in with
“December Quiz Corner” in the subject. The best
caption(s) along with the your name will be
published in the next issue.
Best captions for the last month’s image:
Fear Personified Yet Fearful
(By Biswajit Mohanta)
Only Pure Love Can Catch Him
(By Gangaram)
QUIZ
CORNER
PARI PRAÇNA
Suggest an
ATTRACTIVE CAPTION
for this image
PARI PRAÇNA
Question: What is the law of receiving guests that could be
learned from Çrémad-Bhägavatam?
Answer: The law of reception in the codes of Vedic principles
states that even if an enemy is received at home, he must be
received with all respects. He should not be given a chance to
understand that he has come into the house of an enemy.
When Lord Kåñëa, accompanied by Arjuna and Bhéma,
approached Jaräsandha in Magadha, the enemies were given
a royal reception by King Jaräsandha. One guest enemy,
namely Bhéma, was to fight with Jaräsandha, and yet they
were given a grand reception. At night they used to sit down
together as friends and guests, and in the day Bhéma and
Jaräsandha would fight, risking life and death. That was the
law of reception.
The reception law enjoins that a poor man who has nothing
to offer his guest should be good enough to offer a straw mat
for sitting, a glass of water for drinking and some sweet
words. Therefore, to receive a guest, either friend or foe,
there is no expense. It is only a question of good manners.
(SB 1.18.28 P)
There is another example of guest reception by Bhéñmadeva,
who received the powerful sages assembled at his deathbed
from all parts of the universe. Although unable to welcome
and receive them physically, he welcomed them well, by
uttering sweet words with hearty expressions. (SB 1.9.9 P)
Mail us at pradipika@vidyapitha.in your questions on
Çrémad-Bhägavatam. Answers to shortlisted questions shall
be published in the next issue of Bhägavata Pradépikä.
Question: The Lord says that He takes away the wealth
of a person on whom He is specially merciful. Is
special mercy of Lord not available to His rich
devotees?
Answer There are two kinds of opulence. One, which
results from one's karma, is material, whereas the other is
spiritual.
When a pure devotee is seen to possess exalted material
opulence, it is not due to his karma. Rather, it is due to
his bhakti. In other words, he is in that position because
the Supreme Lord wants him to execute service to Him
very easily and opulently.
The special mercy of the Lord for the neophyte devotee
is that he becomes materially poor. The Lord
orchestrates this so that being frustrated in his repeated
attempts at economic development, the devotee
ultimately takes solid shelter under the lotus feet of the
Lord. This is the Lord's mercy because if a neophyte
devotee becomes materially opulent he forgets the
service of the Lord. However, if an advanced devotee is
favored by the Lord with opulence, it is not material
opulence but a spiritual opportunity.
Material opulence offered to the demigods causes
forgetfulness of the Lord, but opulence was given to Bali
Mahäräja for continuing service to the Lord, which was
free from any touch of mäyä. (SB 5.24.22 P)
If a human being is born in an aristocratic family or a
higher status of life, if he performs wonderful activities, if
he is youthful, if he has personal beauty, a good
education and good wealth, and if he is nonetheless not
proud of his opulences, it is to be understood that he is
especially favored by the Supreme Personality of
Godhead. (SB 8.22.26)
December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 7
Everyone is more or less proud of his opulence in this world, but when Lord Kåñëa
was in human society, He excelled all His contemporaries within the universe.
(SB 3.2.12 P)
ANALOGY ARENA
Even if one is liberated, he
nevertheless accepts the body
he has received according to
his past karma. Without
misconceptions, however, he
regards his enjoyment and
suffering due to that karma
the way an awakened person
regards a dream he had while
sleeping. (SB 5.1.16 P)
Eternal time moves
very sharply, as if
made of razors and
thunderbolts.
Uninterrupted and
fully independent,
it drives the
activities of the
entire world.
(SB 6.5.19)
Just as a bee is always
interested in the honey in
the flower and does not
consider the thorns and
colors, highly qualified
persons, who are
uncommon, accept only
the good qualities of
others, not considering
their bad qualities
(SB 4.4.12 P)
In the Vedänta-sütra, the living
entities of different gradations are
compared to candles or lamps with
different candle power. For example,
some electric bulbs have the power
of one thousand candles, some five
hundred candles, etc., but all electric
bulbs have light. Light is present in
every bulb, but the gradations of
light are different. Similarly, there are
gradations of Brahman. (SB 4.1.15 P)
Since an earthen pot is the
result of the actions of a
potter, by seeing the
earthen pot one can guess
at the existence of the
potter. Similarly, this
material world resembles the
spiritual world, and any
intelligent person can guess
how it is acting.
(SB 8.3.14 P)
When one takes up
spiritual activities, one's
entire material body is
spiritualized. Similarly, in
this material world, when
the Kåñëa consciousness
movement expands, the
entire material world
becomes spiritualized.
(SB 7.9.33 P)
December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 8
Devahüti serves Kardama Muni affectionately and pleases him. She requests for a child from him. Kardama
fulfils her desire and nine daughters are born to her (SB 3.23). Kardama then remains with Devahüti to offer
her one more son (Lord Kapila). Kardama offers his prayers to Lord Kapila and leaves for the forest (SB
3.24). Lord Kapila gives the knowledge of devotional service to his mother (SB 3.25).
Although the Supreme Lord, Kåñëa, is full in Himself, He appears in different yugas
to demand the surrender of the conditioned souls so that they will benefit by
becoming free from the material clutches (SB 7.9.11 P)
Devahüti – An Exemplary Wife
By her loving services, Devahüti won the heart of her husband.
She was extremely chaste. Understanding his desires, she served
Kardama with great love, respect, intimacy, purity of body and
mind and with her sweet words. She served him with complete
sense control giving up all lust, pride, envy, greed, sinful
activities and vanity. She constantly worked sanely and
diligently. Gradually she grew weak and emaciated. She expected
great blessings from her husband. Seeing her condition, Kardama
was overcome with compassion. He desired to bestow upon her
all the transcendental gifts he has received from his devotional
service to the Lord, which can make one free from fear and
lamentation.
Devahüti Desires A Child
With choked voice. Devahüti asked her husband to fulfil the
promise of giving her children, since bearing children through a
husband is a praiseworthy quality of a chaste woman. Desiring to
please his wife, Kardama created an aerial mansion, a suitable
dwelling for their union, that could travel at his will. Kardama
also arranged for a desire fulfilling lake, Bindu Sarovara, housed
with a thousand young girls to serve Devahüti. The girls fully
bathed the emaciated Devahüti and decorated her. Her face now
shone with shining teeth, charming eyes, eyebrows and beautiful
locks of hair.
Kardama Fulfils His Promise
Seeing Devahüti regain her original beauty as a
princess, Kardama, with increased fondness,
placed her on the arial mansion. Though seeming
attached, he did not lose his glory as a self-
controlled person. Travelling like air to other
planets in that great mansion, Kardama even
surpassed the demigods. In the arial mansion, both
enjoyed for hundred autumns which passed just
like a moment. Kardama divided himself into nine
forms and impregnated Devahüti with nine
discharges of semen. On the same day, she gave
birth to nine beautiful daughters.
Devahüti’s Predicament
Thus, fulfilling his promise, Kardama now desired
to leave home for his real concern of spiritual
realization. Pained Devahüti submits an indirect
request for a son. Finding herself being cheated by
mäyä, she felt that she did not cultivate knowledge
in the association of her saintly husband. She said,
“After you go to the forest, your daughter would
find their own suitable husbands and go away. But
who will give me solace?”
BHĀGAVATA
PRAVĀHA
The Flow of Çrémad-Bhägavatam
DUTIFUL HUSBAND &
RESPONSIBLE RENUNCIANT
[Çrémad-Bhägavatam, Canto 3 Chapters 23-25]	
by	Vijay	Krishna	Kumar	Das
December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 9
Lord Kapila Describes Ädhyätmika Yoga
Lord Kapila described to his mother the path followed by
the devotees. He said, “I consider the yoga system
concerning the soul i.e. ädhyätmika yoga, as the most
beneficial as it causes detachment from material
happiness and distress. The mind is the pivot. If the mind
is attached to material modes, it causes bondage and if it
is attached to the Supreme Lord, it causes liberation.
When mind is cleansed of the impurities like lust and
greed, one transcends material dualities. The mind reach
this state by practising bhakti endowed with jïäna and
vairagya, then one sees everything in the right perspective.
One becomes indifferent to material existence and the
material influence acts less powerfully on him. ”
Supremacy Of Bhakti
Lord Kapila continued, “Perfection in self realization
cannot be attained unless one engages in bhakti, for that
is the only auspicious path. Material association is the
greatest entanglement. But association of sädhus opens
the door of liberation. Kåñëa-kathä in the association of
sädhus is very pleasing and satisfying to the ear and
bestow ruci, äsakti, bhava and prema in sequence.
Practice of jïäna and yoga is not complete without
bhakti. A person endeavouring to control mind through
yoga, comes to the correct path of yoga by thinking
about My activities. Even a person practicing the
cultivation of knowledge, achieves Me in this very life as
impersonal Brahman, by developing bhakti.”
To be Continued…
The human life is meant for making a solution to the repeated change of bodies and
thereby attaining a place in the spiritual sky, where everything is eternal, blissful and
full of knowledge. (SB 2.6.11 P)
Appearance of Lord Kapila
Remembering the words of Viñëu, Kardama replied back
to Devahüti, “Do not be disappointed, the infallible Lord
will shortly enter your womb as your son. He will cut the
knot of attachment in your heart by teaching the
knowledge of Brahman.” With full faith in the words of
her husband, Devahüti worshiped the Lord with great
respect, who then entered into the womb of Devahüti
through Kardama. Brahmä appeared before the couple
and addressed them. He said, “You accepted my
instruction without duplicity and respect and have thus
properly worshiped and honoured me. Your nine
daughters are very chaste and will increase this creation
by their own descendents. Offer them to the foremost of
the sages with due regard for the girls’ temperaments and
likings. Your son will be the foremost among the
perfected beings approved by all the äcäryas of Säìkhya
philosophy will be known by the name Kapila, and will
increase your fame.” Thus blessing them, Brahmä left.
Kardama Muni’s Humility
Understanding that the Lord has descended, Kardama
approached Him in a secluded place and offered him
prayers. He said, “Demigods become pleased after a long
time. It takes many births for a mature yogi to see You.
But the same Lord is now appeared in our house, to
support His devotees, not considering the negligence of
the ordinary householders like us. Now that You have
appeared, I have become free of debt, so please give me
the permission to renounce this world.”
Kardama Muni Leaves Home
Hearing the words of Kardama Lord Kapila replied,“I
have appeared in this world to explain the principles of
self-realization for those desiring freedom from material
desires. This path was lost in time. I have come to revive
this knowledge of Säìkhya. I will also describe this
knowledge to My mother, so that she will also attain
perfection and will be freed from fear. Surrendering all
your activities to Me, go as you desire and worship Me
for eternal life.” Kardama circumambulated the Lord and
with a pacified mind, he at once left for the forest. After
Kardama Muni left, Lord Kapila Stayed at Bindu-
sarovara to please His mother Devahüti.”
Enquiry By Devahüti
Remembering the words of Brahmä, Devahüti began to
question Lord Kapila. She said, “You are my
transcendental eye and have arisen like the sun to
dissipate the darkness of ignorance of the universe. Please
dispel my illusion of aham mameti due to my false ego
and created by your mäyä. Please explain about the jéva
in material world (puruña) and prakåti.
December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 10
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The Çrémad-Bhägavatam images, verses and quotes from the books
of His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupäda are
copyright of The Bhaktivedanta Book Trust. Other images are
copyright of their respective artists / photographers/ websites.
NOMENCLATURE
SB: Çrémad-Bhägavatam
CC: Çré Caitanya-caritämåta
BG: Bhagavad-gétä
BS: Brahma-saàhitä
1.1.1: Canto 1, Chapter 1, Verse 1
1.1.1 P: From Çréla Prabhupäda’s
purport to SB 1.1.1 (If it is beyond
Canto 10 Chapter 13, it is from the
purport of Çréla Prabhupäda’s disciples)
1.1.1 V: From Çréla Viçvanätha
Cakravarti Öhäkura’s commentary on
SB 1.1.1.
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Bhagavata pradipika#18_The art of responding effectively

  • 1. December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 1 CONTENTS The Art of Responding Effectively…......................2 Verse of the Month..........5 Pari-praçna..........................6 Quiz Corner........................6 Analogy Arena...................7 Bhägavata Praväha...........8 A Monthly E-Magazine from the Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha with Illuminating Perspectives on the Srimad-Bhagavatam December 2018 | Issue 18 Dedicated to His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedänta Swämi Prabhupäda, Founder-Äcärya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness Turning Crisis into Opportunities The Art of RESPONDING EFFECTIVELY
  • 2. December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 2 Our actual duty is to carry out the supreme order of the Personality of Godhead. If we are fixed in our determination to carry out the supreme order of the Lord, we are always secure, regardless of where we are situated, whether in hell or in heaven. (5.1.19 P) King Uttänapäda had two wives, Sunéti and Suruci. He loved his younger wife Suruci, but neglected Sunéti. One day, Uttänapäda was sitting on his throne with Suruci's son Uttama, on his lap. Then Sunéti's son Dhruva also came there desiring to sit on father’s lap, but Uttänapäda didn’t welcome him. Suruci then spoke to Dhruva proudly, that because he was not born from her womb, he was not qualified to sit on his father’s lap. The childhood innocence of Dhruva didn’t see any distinction between Suruci and Sunéti, but the envious attitude of Suruci showed him such difference. By worshiping the Supreme Lord, one can become free from the cycle of birth and death. But arrogant Suruci told Dhruva that he could take birth in her womb by worshiping the Lord. Such is the nature of pride. It’s best to act appropriately in a situation rather than regret later! It’s better to regret for one’s poor response rather than justifying it! It’s worse to justify one’s impulsive act and deny responsibility for its result! Did someone ever mistreat you? Did you ever hurt someone? How had been your response in either case? A sensitive heart regrets when one fails to respond sensitively. Having said or done something that pained someone or yourself, one often thinks, “Oh I could have been polite!” “Maybe I should not have taken it so seriously!” “Alas! I overreacted, I misunderstood!” But learning to respond appropriately in a situation can turn crisis into great opportunities. by Gauranga Darshan Das The Art of RESPONDING EFFECTIVELY Turning Crisis into Opportunities Poor Responses of a Weak Heart One reacts impulsively at times, due to the heat of situations or lack of maturity. Even if one knows what is right and what is wrong, one’s weaknesses do not allow one to act aptly. The heart’s weakness is often due to egoistic pride, undue attachments and unfair obligations.
  • 3. December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 3 An intelligent devotee doesn't ask the Supreme Lord for anything material. His only prayer is: mama janmani janmanéçvare bhavatäd bhaktir ahaituké tvayi. He wants to be engaged perpetually in the loving service of the Lord. (SB 5.3.15 P) A child naturally deserves affection from an elder. No elder refuses to fondle a child when the child himself approaches for it. What to speak of a father and a king? A father is supposed to treat all his children equally. And a king’s responsibility is to take care of all his citizens equally. Uttänapäda was both a king and a father, but failed to treat his two sons, Uttama and Dhruva equally. His favoritism towards Suruci made him indifferent to Dhruva and ignore his duty as a father. He did not even stop Suruci who was unnecessarily outrageous. His innocent desire being thwarted, Dhruva was disappointed. Further, the insulting words of his stepmother and the silence of his father broke his tender heart. An earthen pot, once broken, is not reusable. Even if one manages to put the broken pieces of the pot together and makes it usable again, one has to be extremely careful in handling that pot, much more than a new pot. Any slight mishandling of such a repaired pot breaks it and makes it irreparable. Relationships are also like that. If one is not sensitive in dealings, that could break someone’s heart permanently. Just Response of a Devoted Heart Hissing like a snake, Dhruva went to his mother Sunéti, crying. Sunété was already in pain, being neglected by her husband. Now she became devastated to see her child insulted by her co-wife. Being a glorious lady and a devotee of Lord Kåñëa, Sunété spontaneously pacified Dhruva with wise words to avoid any negative feelings to overcome him. She told him three things in particular, “(i) Never desire harm for others who might have caused you pain, (ii) Everyone suffers due to one’s own past deeds, (iii) Whatever may be your desire, to fulfill that, you need to worship the Supreme Lord.” tam eva vatsäçraya bhåtya-vatsalaà mumukñubhir mågya-padäbja-paddhatim ananya-bhäve nija-dharma-bhävite manasy avasthäpya bhajasva püruñam Sunéti told Dhruva, “My dear boy, you also should take shelter of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who is very kind to His devotees. Persons seeking liberation from the cycle of birth and death always take shelter of the lotus feet of the Lord in devotional service. Becoming purified by executing your allotted occupation, just situate the Supreme Personality of Godhead in your heart, and without deviating for a moment, engage always in His service.” (4.8.22) Situations are not within our control, but our response is. Thus, instead of accusing Suruci or Uttänapäda, Sunété maturely directed Dhruva towards Lord Väsudeva. When others hurt us, it is difficult to see any good in their words or actions. But Sunéti told Dhruva that Suruci was correct in saying that ‘one should worship the Supreme Lord to fulfill one’s desires.’ Sunéti valued this statement more and ignored to react to all the other offensive statements of Suruci. Çréla Prabhupäda writes, “Both the mother and the son were lamenting Dhruva Mahäräja’s having been insulted by his stepmother and his father’s not having taken any step on this issue. But mere lamentation is useless-one should find out the means to mitigate one’s Our good consciousness can positively influence others, while our poor attitude can negatively affect others.
  • 4. December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 4 The impersonal feature of the Absolute Truth is but His radiation, as the sun rays are but radiations from the sun. (SB 2.2.11 P) The intelligence that identifies one’s own faults is wonderful, the heart that repents for them is glorious, and the conscience that endeavors not to repeat them is admirable. lamentation. Thus both mother and son decided to take shelter of the lotus feet of the Lord because that is the only solution to all material problems.” (SB 4.8.24 P) Blaming, arguing and lamenting are natural in calamity, but one should surpass that stage to maturely consider what best could one do in such a situation. And the best thing to do always is to seek God’s shelter, apart from doing whatever else is humanly possible. One can be hopeful in the most hopeless situation by taking shelter of Kåñëa. Our good consciousness can positively influence others, while our poor attitude can negatively affect others. We can see this contrast between the characters of Sunéti and Suruci. Having heard from his mother that Supreme Lord Kåñëa fulfills all of one’s desires, Dhruva left home to worship Him. However, due to the insult done by Suruci, he developed an ambitious desire to attain a position superior to his father and even Lord Brahmä. He was so ambitious for this position that he didn’t even accept the advice of Närada Muni to return home. Finally, Närada instructed him to chant, “Om namo bhagavate väsudeväya,” to attain his goal. Dhruva then practiced bhakti with great deter- mination and in six months, he attained the darçana of Lord Viñëu, who blessed him in various ways. Honest Regret After an Unjust Response When little Dhruva went to the forest alone, Uttänapäda lamented for his hardhearted behavior towards Dhruva and Sunéti. It was not that Uttänapäda didn’t have affection for Dhruva. He certainly loved his son. But due to his excessive attachment towards Suruci, he couldn’t welcome Dhruva or stop Suruci from chastising Dhruva. He honestly regretted for his misdeed. He condemned himself for being a henpecked husband and an irresponsible father. But by this time, Dhruva had already left home! Some errors are irreversible. We can’t always undo something even if we realize that what we did was inappropriate. Sometimes, although we realize our mistake, and try to rectify, that opportunity has already slipped out of our hands. For instance, after a student has just come out of the examination hall submitting his mathematics answer sheet, even if he realizes that he had used a wrong formula to solve a problem, he can’t rectify it anymore. Similarly, even if a cook realizes that he has put more salt than required in a preparation, he can’t undo it. Having responded with a wrong answer in the interview, an employment seeker cannot go back and prove his knowledge in front of the interviewer. Wasted time will not come back, and spoken words cannot be taken back. Thus one should be learn to act appropriately on the spur of the moment. That is best. But the good news is that there is a second-best thing. One can remember one’s mistakes and be cautious not to repeat them in future. Having failed in an exam, a student can be more careful in the next exam. Having spoiled a preparation, a cook can make it better the next day. But the impetus to improve oneself comes from an honest repentance for one’s mistakes and sincere efforts to rectify them.
  • 5. December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 5 The more one makes advancement in devotional service, the more one becomes detached from material opulence and material activity. (SB 4.13.9 P) Uttänapäda started treating Sunéti with love. When Dhruva returned after attaining benedictions from Lord Viñëu, Uttänapäda received him with warmth and affection. Noble hearted Sunéti didn’t hold any grudges towards Suruci or Uttama, but took them in the same palanquin as herself. Even Suruci gave up her inimical attitude towards Dhruva, and blessed him to live long. Dhruva gave up his grudge towards Suruci and bowed down at her feet. Dhruva gave up his anger towards Uttama and hugged him. When Dhruva grew up, Uttänapäda made him the king. Bhakti Makes One Respond Appropriately Suruci acted impulsively due to pride and envy. Uttänapäda acted imprudently due to attachment to wife. Dhruva acted obstinately due to material ambition. Sunéti acted maturely due to her devotion to Lord Kåñëa. Because Sunéti herself was a great devotee, she could inspire Dhruva to take to devotional service. Although Dhruva was ambitious, because he received the guidance of great devotees like Sunéti and Närada, he bhaktià muhuù pravahatäà tvayi me prasaìgo bhüyäd ananta mahatäm amaläçayänäm yenäïjasolbaëam uru-vyasanaà bhaväbdhià neñye bhavad-guëa-kathämåta-päna-mattaù O unlimited Lord, kindly bless me so that I may associate with great devotees who engage in Your transcendental loving service constantly, as the waves of a river constantly flow. Such transcendental devotees are completely situated in an uncontaminated state of life. By the process of devotional service I shall surely be able to cross the nescient ocean of material existence, which is filled with the waves of blazing, firelike dangers. It will be very easy for me, for I am becoming mad to hear about Your transcendental qualities and pastimes, which are eternally existent. (4.9.11) VERSE OF THE MONTH HARI- DÄSA- VARYA was purified and elevated. Although Uttänapäda neglected his glorious wife and son, he honestly repented for his misdeeds and took to good behavior soon. Although Suruci was envious and proud, the kindness of Sunéti and spiritual success of Dhruva brought positive transformation in her. Thus it is bhakti, or devotional service unto Lord Kåñëa, that ultimately brings about ideal transformation in a person and makes one respond suitably in different situations. All our chanting, hearing and other devotional practices should make us act appropriately on the spur of the moment. That may not happen overnight, but a sincere practice of bhakti, helps one – (i) identify where one needs to improve, (ii) sincerely desire to overcome those shortcomings, (iii) pray for improvement, (iv) seek guidance, (v) cultivate right intentions, and (vi) endeavor to act sensitively and wisely. It’s a wonderful journey that all of us need to take up in lives, from an impulsive negative response to spontaneous positive response in trying situations. Whether the journey is long or short depends on how sincere are we to travel under wise guidance and sincere practice on the path of devotion. Please Give Me the Association of Devotees
  • 6. December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 6 The only way to understand the Lord as He is, is by devotional service to the Lord, or by approaching the devotee of the Lord who always has the Lord in his heart. (SB 3.9.3 P) Mail your caption to pradipika@vidyapitha.in with “December Quiz Corner” in the subject. The best caption(s) along with the your name will be published in the next issue. Best captions for the last month’s image: Fear Personified Yet Fearful (By Biswajit Mohanta) Only Pure Love Can Catch Him (By Gangaram) QUIZ CORNER PARI PRAÇNA Suggest an ATTRACTIVE CAPTION for this image PARI PRAÇNA Question: What is the law of receiving guests that could be learned from Çrémad-Bhägavatam? Answer: The law of reception in the codes of Vedic principles states that even if an enemy is received at home, he must be received with all respects. He should not be given a chance to understand that he has come into the house of an enemy. When Lord Kåñëa, accompanied by Arjuna and Bhéma, approached Jaräsandha in Magadha, the enemies were given a royal reception by King Jaräsandha. One guest enemy, namely Bhéma, was to fight with Jaräsandha, and yet they were given a grand reception. At night they used to sit down together as friends and guests, and in the day Bhéma and Jaräsandha would fight, risking life and death. That was the law of reception. The reception law enjoins that a poor man who has nothing to offer his guest should be good enough to offer a straw mat for sitting, a glass of water for drinking and some sweet words. Therefore, to receive a guest, either friend or foe, there is no expense. It is only a question of good manners. (SB 1.18.28 P) There is another example of guest reception by Bhéñmadeva, who received the powerful sages assembled at his deathbed from all parts of the universe. Although unable to welcome and receive them physically, he welcomed them well, by uttering sweet words with hearty expressions. (SB 1.9.9 P) Mail us at pradipika@vidyapitha.in your questions on Çrémad-Bhägavatam. Answers to shortlisted questions shall be published in the next issue of Bhägavata Pradépikä. Question: The Lord says that He takes away the wealth of a person on whom He is specially merciful. Is special mercy of Lord not available to His rich devotees? Answer There are two kinds of opulence. One, which results from one's karma, is material, whereas the other is spiritual. When a pure devotee is seen to possess exalted material opulence, it is not due to his karma. Rather, it is due to his bhakti. In other words, he is in that position because the Supreme Lord wants him to execute service to Him very easily and opulently. The special mercy of the Lord for the neophyte devotee is that he becomes materially poor. The Lord orchestrates this so that being frustrated in his repeated attempts at economic development, the devotee ultimately takes solid shelter under the lotus feet of the Lord. This is the Lord's mercy because if a neophyte devotee becomes materially opulent he forgets the service of the Lord. However, if an advanced devotee is favored by the Lord with opulence, it is not material opulence but a spiritual opportunity. Material opulence offered to the demigods causes forgetfulness of the Lord, but opulence was given to Bali Mahäräja for continuing service to the Lord, which was free from any touch of mäyä. (SB 5.24.22 P) If a human being is born in an aristocratic family or a higher status of life, if he performs wonderful activities, if he is youthful, if he has personal beauty, a good education and good wealth, and if he is nonetheless not proud of his opulences, it is to be understood that he is especially favored by the Supreme Personality of Godhead. (SB 8.22.26)
  • 7. December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 7 Everyone is more or less proud of his opulence in this world, but when Lord Kåñëa was in human society, He excelled all His contemporaries within the universe. (SB 3.2.12 P) ANALOGY ARENA Even if one is liberated, he nevertheless accepts the body he has received according to his past karma. Without misconceptions, however, he regards his enjoyment and suffering due to that karma the way an awakened person regards a dream he had while sleeping. (SB 5.1.16 P) Eternal time moves very sharply, as if made of razors and thunderbolts. Uninterrupted and fully independent, it drives the activities of the entire world. (SB 6.5.19) Just as a bee is always interested in the honey in the flower and does not consider the thorns and colors, highly qualified persons, who are uncommon, accept only the good qualities of others, not considering their bad qualities (SB 4.4.12 P) In the Vedänta-sütra, the living entities of different gradations are compared to candles or lamps with different candle power. For example, some electric bulbs have the power of one thousand candles, some five hundred candles, etc., but all electric bulbs have light. Light is present in every bulb, but the gradations of light are different. Similarly, there are gradations of Brahman. (SB 4.1.15 P) Since an earthen pot is the result of the actions of a potter, by seeing the earthen pot one can guess at the existence of the potter. Similarly, this material world resembles the spiritual world, and any intelligent person can guess how it is acting. (SB 8.3.14 P) When one takes up spiritual activities, one's entire material body is spiritualized. Similarly, in this material world, when the Kåñëa consciousness movement expands, the entire material world becomes spiritualized. (SB 7.9.33 P)
  • 8. December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 8 Devahüti serves Kardama Muni affectionately and pleases him. She requests for a child from him. Kardama fulfils her desire and nine daughters are born to her (SB 3.23). Kardama then remains with Devahüti to offer her one more son (Lord Kapila). Kardama offers his prayers to Lord Kapila and leaves for the forest (SB 3.24). Lord Kapila gives the knowledge of devotional service to his mother (SB 3.25). Although the Supreme Lord, Kåñëa, is full in Himself, He appears in different yugas to demand the surrender of the conditioned souls so that they will benefit by becoming free from the material clutches (SB 7.9.11 P) Devahüti – An Exemplary Wife By her loving services, Devahüti won the heart of her husband. She was extremely chaste. Understanding his desires, she served Kardama with great love, respect, intimacy, purity of body and mind and with her sweet words. She served him with complete sense control giving up all lust, pride, envy, greed, sinful activities and vanity. She constantly worked sanely and diligently. Gradually she grew weak and emaciated. She expected great blessings from her husband. Seeing her condition, Kardama was overcome with compassion. He desired to bestow upon her all the transcendental gifts he has received from his devotional service to the Lord, which can make one free from fear and lamentation. Devahüti Desires A Child With choked voice. Devahüti asked her husband to fulfil the promise of giving her children, since bearing children through a husband is a praiseworthy quality of a chaste woman. Desiring to please his wife, Kardama created an aerial mansion, a suitable dwelling for their union, that could travel at his will. Kardama also arranged for a desire fulfilling lake, Bindu Sarovara, housed with a thousand young girls to serve Devahüti. The girls fully bathed the emaciated Devahüti and decorated her. Her face now shone with shining teeth, charming eyes, eyebrows and beautiful locks of hair. Kardama Fulfils His Promise Seeing Devahüti regain her original beauty as a princess, Kardama, with increased fondness, placed her on the arial mansion. Though seeming attached, he did not lose his glory as a self- controlled person. Travelling like air to other planets in that great mansion, Kardama even surpassed the demigods. In the arial mansion, both enjoyed for hundred autumns which passed just like a moment. Kardama divided himself into nine forms and impregnated Devahüti with nine discharges of semen. On the same day, she gave birth to nine beautiful daughters. Devahüti’s Predicament Thus, fulfilling his promise, Kardama now desired to leave home for his real concern of spiritual realization. Pained Devahüti submits an indirect request for a son. Finding herself being cheated by mäyä, she felt that she did not cultivate knowledge in the association of her saintly husband. She said, “After you go to the forest, your daughter would find their own suitable husbands and go away. But who will give me solace?” BHĀGAVATA PRAVĀHA The Flow of Çrémad-Bhägavatam DUTIFUL HUSBAND & RESPONSIBLE RENUNCIANT [Çrémad-Bhägavatam, Canto 3 Chapters 23-25] by Vijay Krishna Kumar Das
  • 9. December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 9 Lord Kapila Describes Ädhyätmika Yoga Lord Kapila described to his mother the path followed by the devotees. He said, “I consider the yoga system concerning the soul i.e. ädhyätmika yoga, as the most beneficial as it causes detachment from material happiness and distress. The mind is the pivot. If the mind is attached to material modes, it causes bondage and if it is attached to the Supreme Lord, it causes liberation. When mind is cleansed of the impurities like lust and greed, one transcends material dualities. The mind reach this state by practising bhakti endowed with jïäna and vairagya, then one sees everything in the right perspective. One becomes indifferent to material existence and the material influence acts less powerfully on him. ” Supremacy Of Bhakti Lord Kapila continued, “Perfection in self realization cannot be attained unless one engages in bhakti, for that is the only auspicious path. Material association is the greatest entanglement. But association of sädhus opens the door of liberation. Kåñëa-kathä in the association of sädhus is very pleasing and satisfying to the ear and bestow ruci, äsakti, bhava and prema in sequence. Practice of jïäna and yoga is not complete without bhakti. A person endeavouring to control mind through yoga, comes to the correct path of yoga by thinking about My activities. Even a person practicing the cultivation of knowledge, achieves Me in this very life as impersonal Brahman, by developing bhakti.” To be Continued… The human life is meant for making a solution to the repeated change of bodies and thereby attaining a place in the spiritual sky, where everything is eternal, blissful and full of knowledge. (SB 2.6.11 P) Appearance of Lord Kapila Remembering the words of Viñëu, Kardama replied back to Devahüti, “Do not be disappointed, the infallible Lord will shortly enter your womb as your son. He will cut the knot of attachment in your heart by teaching the knowledge of Brahman.” With full faith in the words of her husband, Devahüti worshiped the Lord with great respect, who then entered into the womb of Devahüti through Kardama. Brahmä appeared before the couple and addressed them. He said, “You accepted my instruction without duplicity and respect and have thus properly worshiped and honoured me. Your nine daughters are very chaste and will increase this creation by their own descendents. Offer them to the foremost of the sages with due regard for the girls’ temperaments and likings. Your son will be the foremost among the perfected beings approved by all the äcäryas of Säìkhya philosophy will be known by the name Kapila, and will increase your fame.” Thus blessing them, Brahmä left. Kardama Muni’s Humility Understanding that the Lord has descended, Kardama approached Him in a secluded place and offered him prayers. He said, “Demigods become pleased after a long time. It takes many births for a mature yogi to see You. But the same Lord is now appeared in our house, to support His devotees, not considering the negligence of the ordinary householders like us. Now that You have appeared, I have become free of debt, so please give me the permission to renounce this world.” Kardama Muni Leaves Home Hearing the words of Kardama Lord Kapila replied,“I have appeared in this world to explain the principles of self-realization for those desiring freedom from material desires. This path was lost in time. I have come to revive this knowledge of Säìkhya. I will also describe this knowledge to My mother, so that she will also attain perfection and will be freed from fear. Surrendering all your activities to Me, go as you desire and worship Me for eternal life.” Kardama circumambulated the Lord and with a pacified mind, he at once left for the forest. After Kardama Muni left, Lord Kapila Stayed at Bindu- sarovara to please His mother Devahüti.” Enquiry By Devahüti Remembering the words of Brahmä, Devahüti began to question Lord Kapila. She said, “You are my transcendental eye and have arisen like the sun to dissipate the darkness of ignorance of the universe. Please dispel my illusion of aham mameti due to my false ego and created by your mäyä. Please explain about the jéva in material world (puruña) and prakåti.
  • 10. December 2018 | Issue 18 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 10 Register for our Online Course PUBLISHED BY Bhaktivedänta Vidyäpéöha Research Center, ISKCON Govardhan Eco Village (GEV), Galtare, Hamrapur (P.O), Wada (Taluka), Palghar (District), Maharashtra, India, 421303. To subscribe, please visit our website www.vidyapitha.in. For any comments or feedbacks mail us at pradipika@vidyapitha.in The Çrémad-Bhägavatam images, verses and quotes from the books of His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupäda are copyright of The Bhaktivedanta Book Trust. Other images are copyright of their respective artists / photographers/ websites. NOMENCLATURE SB: Çrémad-Bhägavatam CC: Çré Caitanya-caritämåta BG: Bhagavad-gétä BS: Brahma-saàhitä 1.1.1: Canto 1, Chapter 1, Verse 1 1.1.1 P: From Çréla Prabhupäda’s purport to SB 1.1.1 (If it is beyond Canto 10 Chapter 13, it is from the purport of Çréla Prabhupäda’s disciples) 1.1.1 V: From Çréla Viçvanätha Cakravarti Öhäkura’s commentary on SB 1.1.1. h0p://www.vidyapitha.in/sign-up-for-bhak>-vedanta-vidyapitha-courses/ Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha Sloka Recitation Audios The material world is called illusory because it is a place of forgetfulness of the transcendental service of the Lord. (SB 3.10.5 P) RATNAMĀLĀ SERIES Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha Sloka Meditation Videos A compilation of Vital Verses form the Timeless Scriptures h0ps://goo.gl/N42of2 h0ps://goo.gl/pGqEbx