EASTER 2014!

EASTER SUNDAY: RESURRECTION
OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST

www.ibtimes.co.uk - On Easter Sunday, Christians around the world celebrate the resurrection of their Lord, Jesus Christ. The account of Jesus' rising from death was recorded in the Gospels of the New Testament. Prior to his crucifixion, Jesus had told his disciples that he would rise again on the third day after his death. He had been buried in a tomb, guarded by an enormous stone so that no one could steal the body. 
When some women visited the grave, days after his death, they found that the stone had been moved and the tomb was empty. Jesus was seen that day and for several days later, when he revisited his friends and disciples. One disciple did not believe Jesus was alive again until he touched his fatal wounds from the crucifixion.

In the following 40 days, hundreds of people witnessed Jesus' return from death, proving all he had prophesied was true – that Christ had indeed risen from the dead before ascending to heaven. For Christians, the fact the Jesus rose from death demonstrated He has power over death, and only through Him can people have hope for eternal life. Jesus said, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). 
With his resurrection Jesus broke the power of death and gave a hope permanent to all mankind. Following the sombre mood of Good Friday which marks the crucifixion of Christ, Easter Sunday is therefore a time of great celebration for Christians.

Today (April 20) the Christian community around the world is all set to celebrate Easter. Easter Sunday is typically the most well attended Sunday service of the year for Christian churches as the Christian community holds prayers and special ceremonies to mark the Easter week. The Friday before Easter Sunday is observed as a mourning day due to Jesus died on Good Friday while Easter Sunday is celebrated as ‘the day when Jesus resurrected.’ Jesus rose from the dead on the third day after his crucifixion.  His resurrection is celebrated today, Easter Sunday (also Resurrection Day or Resurrection Sunday). Just as the birth of Christ is at the center of Christmas, the story of his death and resurrection is at the core of Easter Sunday or Resurrection Day. For Christians, Easter is the greatest manifestation of God’s love that gives hope amid the evils of the world. Also for the Jews is a day to celebrate because Passover marks the passage of the children of Israel from slavery in Egypt.  We should remember that Lord Jesus preached the love of God, forgiveness and compassion; however, He was tried and crucified without mercy. He preached the consciousness of God, therefore He is our spiritual master, He is our Guru. For those who are not Jews, nor Christians, nor believe in the stories that tell the life and death of Jesus, this is also an auspicious time to perform introspection and evaluation of their daily actions, so it would be nice if we transform all our existence so that not only today, but all our days become a continuous Easter Sunday or Resurrection to a new spiritual life in harmony with God and our brothers and sisters. (Editor's note).

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US? 

The Śrīmad Bhāgavatam states that any bona fide preacher of God consciousness must have the qualities of titiksā (tolerance) and karunā (compassion). In the character of Lord Jesus Christ we find both these qualities. He was so tolerant that even while he was being crucified, he didn't condemn anyone. And he was so compassionate that he prayed to God to forgive the very persons who were trying to kill him. (Of course, they could not actually kill him. But they were thinking that he could be killed, so they were committing a great offense.) As Christ was being crucified he prayed, “Father, forgive them. They know not what they are doing”. A Vaisnava is unhappy to see the suffering of others. Therefore, Lord Jesus Christ agreed to be crucified - to free others from their suffering.

Śrīla A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda :
“The Science of Self Realization”
Chapter IV “Understanding Krishna and Christ”
“Krishna, Christos, Christ”
Bhaktivedanta Book Trust International

 

Published by dasavatara das - “Vedic Views on World News”
http://www.vedicviews-worldnews.blogspot.com.ar/

POPE FRANCIS WASHES FEET OF DISABLED PEOPLE

EASTER CELEBRATIONS, POPE FRANCIS

WASHES FEET OF ELDERLY AND DISABLED

Vatican City (CNN) - The washing of feet was a radical act in Jesus' time. It is no less radical in the modern era, with Pope Francis' decision to break with the long-standing papal tradition of washing only priests' feet, to include women and non-Christians in the symbolic ceremony. The controversy began on Holy Thursday last year when Pope Francis washed the feet of two women and two Muslims at a juvenile detention center in Rome. 
Before this, modern Popes had only ever washed the feet of 12 priests at the Vatican, during the Mass for the Last Supper. This year, Pope Francis visited a home for the elderly and disabled, the Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, to wash the feet of "12 disabled people of different ages, ethnicities and religious confessions," during a special Lord's Supper Mass, according to the Vatican.

Those chosen for the special honor included a 16-year-old boy from Cape Verde who was paralyzed in a diving accident last year, a 19-year-old man and a 39-year-old woman diagnosed with cerebral palsy, and two 86-year-olds with mobility problems. The 78-year-old pope smiled at each of the people whose feet he washed, but clearly struggled to get up from his knees as he moved down the line; two assistants helped him to his feet. He appeared to tire towards the end of the short ceremony. 
The tradition of the pontiff washing his priests' feet is based on a passage of the Bible which says that Jesus attended to his disciples at the Last Supper, saying, "If I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet." (John 13:15) But until last year, no pope had dared to go against Vatican rules and choose anyone but priests for the Holy Thursday event. In choosing to change the practice, Francis is being as radical as Jesus was in his own time.

Pope Francis washed the feet of 12 elderly and disabled people during a Holy Thursday ritual in Rome on Thursday. Francis continues to break with tradition by performing the pre-Easter ritual on non-Catholics. According to Vatican leaders, Francis' gesture was one of humility and service, intended to embrace those on the fringes of society. From the beginning of his papacy, the pope himself has been on the "fringes" of long-standing Vatican protocol, for example by choosing to live outside of the papal palace and eschewing traditional papal garments and modes of transport. In breaking the rules of foot-washing at the Vatican, the Pope is acknowledging what has been a practice in local churches for some time, and also reminding Catholics that the important thing is not whose foot is being washed, but the spirit behind that gesture. The congregation of the Roman Curia, named Vatican's Congregation for Divine Worship, states that foot-washing “represents the service and charity of Christ, who came 'not to be served, but to serve.'” We try to follow the steps of our spiritual teachers, despite all our weaknesses and imperfections, and thus, we celebrate this concept and agree with Pope Fracis who has said, “Jesus made a gesture, a job, the service of a slave, a servant. And he leaves this inheritance to us: We need to be servants to one another.” This is what Srila Prabhupada taught us that the Vaishnava is a server that is always ready to provide a service to the Lord and, in the same way, the Lord is always looking for an opportunity to render some service to His devotee. We must overcome the selfishness that is based on ignorance and to seek spiritual enlightenment that allows us to change ourselves, and go step by step developing the qualifications to be eligible to engage in the loving devotional service of the servants of the servants of the loving devotees who are eternally engaged in serving the Supreme Lord. (Editor's note).

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US? 

Unless we cleanse the pollutions, the artificial impositions that are upon our mind we can’t understand our natural state of health. So the purpose of human life according to the great acharyas, according to the great scriptures is to clean the mind, to make it pure. ... Because think about it, is happiness something outside of yourself, is happiness something you can put in yourself? Real happiness is a state of consciousness. ... Every religious system every religious path that is actually authorized teaches how to clean your heart, how to purify your mind, how to see your true eternal self in the mirror of your consciousness. First thing is we have to stop throwing dirt in our mind by our activities. We should live according to ethical, moral principles. We should live in a spirit of service to others rather than exploitation of others.

Śrīla Radhanath Swami Mahārāja :
“Conquering The Greatest Enemy”
http://www.radhanathmaharaj.net/content/conquering-greatest-enemy-radhanath-swami
http://www.radhanath-swami.net/  -  http://radhanathswami.info

Published by dasavatara das - "Vedic Views on World News"
http://www.vedicviews-worldnews.blogspot.com.ar/

SRI RAM NAVAMI 2014

SRI RAMA NAVAMI 2014
CELEBRATIONS ON APRIL 8

www.indiaonlinepages.com - Ram Navami is one of the most significant days observed by the Hindus, especially the followers of Vishnu. Ram Navami is the day etched out in the Hindu calendar as the auspicious occasion that consecrates the birth of Lord Ram, Lord Vishnu's seventh human incarnation on earth. Born to King Dasarath and his wife Kaushalya on the 'navami' or the 'ninth day' of Chaitra month, Ram Navami is celebrated in the spirit of a festival in March/April. 
According to Hindu belief, Lord Rama came on earth invested with the divine qualities of Lord Vishnu, associated with purity of soul, beneficence and humility. From the mythological perspective, Lord Rama is seen as eternally blissful and in his earthly form came to exemplify the perfect man, referred to as 'Maryada Purushottam'. It is this aspect that is recalled during the Ram Navami festival.

Lord Rama's dutifulness, integrity and magnanimity are detailed out through the various episodes of the epic 'Ramayana'. Recitations and discourses from the Ramayana help us to take cues from Lord Rama's demonstration of integrity and courage in order to triumph over evil motives and selfish desires. Thus, Ram Navami festival is for all those who want to imbibe these qualities in thought and action. 
It is with this spirit that Ram Navami is celebrated in all parts of the country, with instances of full nine-day celebration and fasting rituals to seek Lord Rama's grace throughout the crest and troughs of life. Since the day coincides with the wedding of Rama and Sita, the mood on this day is extremely jubilant. In Andhra Pradesh, temples re-enact the marriage of Lord Rama and Sita on the final day of Ram Navami. 

This year 2014, Sri Ram Navami falls on 8th April and it is celebrated with elaborate preparation and fervor. The rituals in the observance of Ram Navami include recitations from 'Ramayana' or Tulsidas's 'Ramacharitmanas', long renditions of bhajans and kirtans and awe-inspiring puja and arti. The bhajans are very uplifting as they eulogize the virtues of Lord Rama, Lakshman, Sita, and Hanuman. Hanuman is known for is his devotion to Rama, and a lot of devotees recite 'Sunderkand' that strengthen qualities of courage and dedication. Ayodhya, Lord Rama's holy birth place witnesses a huge congregation of devotees who come to take a holy dip in river Saryu on the pious occasion of Ram Navami. In South India, the Ram Navami festival carries on for nine days consisting of several elements of ceremony and rituals. In Rishikesh, which is an important seat of Ram worship, special prayers dedicated to Lord Rama, japas and constant chantings invoking Lord Rama's name is a common practice. Mantras like 'Om Sri Ram', 'Jai Sri Ram' raise the higher energies around the place. Our spiritual teachers have taught us that if we hear about the life of Ramachandra, His activities and pastimes, we will be associating directly with the Supreme Personality of Godhead, for there is no difference between His form, His name, His pastimes, and Himself. With his exemplary behavior, Lord Rama achieved unity in thought, word and deed, for that reason, far from celebrating Ramanavami as a mere celebration, this occasion is an invitation to elevate our emotions, our feelings and our understanding of spiritual contemplation and self-control, with which we come into harmony with the forces of the world. (Editor's note).

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US? 

Dasharatha was the king of Kosala, an ancient kingdom that was located in present day Uttar Pradesh. Ayodhya was its capital.  The childless Dasharatha was advised by his family priest Vashishtha to perform a fire sacrifice ceremony to seek the blessings of God for children.  While performing the fire worship ceremony, a majestic figure rose from the sacrificial fire and handed to Dasharatha a bowl of rice pudding, saying, “God is pleased with you and has asked you to distribute this rice pudding (payasa) to your wives - they will soon bear your children.”  The king received the gift joyfully and distributed the payasa to his three queens, Kausalya, Kaikeyi, and Sumitra. Kausalya, the eldest queen, gave birth to the eldest son Rama.  Bharata, the second son was born to Kaikeyi and Sumitra gave birth to the twins Lakshmana and Shatrughna.  Rama’s birthday is celebrated now as “Ramanavami”.

Stephen Knapp (Śrīpad Nandanandana dasa) :
“The Ramayana Summarized”
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/ramayana_summarized.htm
http://www.stephen-knapp.com  -  http://www.stephenknapp.info/

Published by dasavatara das - “Vedic Views on World News”
http://www.vedicviews-worldnews.blogspot.com.ar/

HINDUS STARTED NAVRATRI

VASANT NAVRATRI, THE HINDU 
FESTIVAL CELEBRATING THE GODDESS

www.newsday.co.tt - Hindus are observing the holy period of Navratri, through worship and devotion. Navratri is a nine-day observance which has began last Monday (March 31) and will continue until April 8. Known as Chaitra Navratri this period starts on the first day of Chaitra (March April) month and ends on Rama Navami (the birth of Lord Rama) which is the ninth day of the month.
Navratri is one of the most prominent festivals of Hinduism. The first three nights are dedicated to the goddess of action and energy, Durga. Her different manifestations of Kumari, Parvati and Kali are worshipped during these days. Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped for the next three days in her various aspects as the goddesses of peace, plenty and bliss. Fulfillment is more important than wealth itself. As the goddess of wealth, Goddess Lakshmi bestows wealth, success and fame and fortune to her worshippers and devotees.

On Lalita Panchami (the fifth day), children gather all the books in the house before a sacred lamp and invoke the blessings of Goddess Saraswati. It is also the occasion for all artisans to lay down their tools before the goddess and seek her benediction upon their trade. Goddess Saraswati is the goddess of knowledge. The religious Navratri festival revolves around the three aspects of Goddess Shakti which are worshiped, with first three days devoted to Goddess Durga, followed by fourth, fifth and sixth days devoted to Goddess Lakshmi and last three days for Goddess Saraswati. 
The devotees observe fasting for seven to eight days, and break their fast on the eighth day (Ashtami) or ninth day (Navami) of the festival, by carrying out “Kanya Pujan” or “Kanchika Pujan”. This involves worshipping and seeking blessings of nine young girls, representing the nine forms of Goddess Durga.

Since last Monday, 31 March, festive fervour has gripped India as thousands of Hindus began the nine-day fasting festival 'Navratri' (nine nights). During fasting, only fruits, milk, potato and other root vegetables should be eaten. Devotees are involved in chanting of mantras (Hindi words), and (bhajans) related to the Goddesses. All along this week, all-day services take place at temples throughout the country, with devotees making offerings throughout the day. This Hindu festival culminates with Ram Navami (this year falls on April 8); it is the ninth day of the moonlit fortnight in the Chaitra as per Hindu almanac, which usually coincides with the spring season and falls in the month of March or April. Vasant signifying spring and Navratri signifying nine nights; Vasant Navratri is celebrated in the spring season of March or April of each year for exactly nine nights. It is observed by Hindu’s and all other devotees all over the world. Vasant Navratri involves several days of fasting (performed by all the true devotees) and is dedicated to celebrating the nine forms of the mother goddess, Shakti and the birth of Sri Rama. The ninth day is also the day of the Ayudha Puja in the south of India. The Ayudha Puja is worship of whatever instruments one may use in one's livelihood. On the proceeding evening, it is traditional to place these instruments on an altar to the Divine. Our spiritual masters have taught us that we should make conscious efforts to see the Divine in the tools, instruments and objects we use every day. By doing this we are connecting our work, labor, study or profession to God and we can see them as imbued with the Divine presence. In this way we can be able to maintain constant remembrance of the Divine and also see our daily activities as an offering to the Supreme Lord. (Editor's note).

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US? 

Navaratri includes the Sarasvati Puja and the Durga Puja festivals. “Nava” means nine and “ratri” means night. So Navaratri literally means nine nights. It is during these nine nights of festivities that the goddess is worshiped in Her different forms of Durga, Lakshmi and then Sarasvati. Durga ... destroys the anarthas or unwanted barriers that hold us back from our true spiritual potential. (...) Lakshmi .... gives one the wealth of good qualities, such as love, goodness, compassion, forgiveness, cooperation, nonviolence, devotion, purity, and the like. (...) Sarasvati ... gives one the intelligence, knowledge and wisdom by which spiritual realization is possible. ... After having removed our impurities, gained the proper virtues, and then acquired the knowledge of the Self, then the last day is called Vijayadasami, or the day of victory over our minds and the lower dimension after having worshiped the goddess in her three forms.

Dr Stephen Knapp (Śrīpad Nandanandana dasa) :
“Hindu Festivals”
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/hindu_festivals.htm
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/books_by_stephen_knapp.htm

Published by dasavatara das - “Vedic Views on World News”
http://www.vedicviews-worldnews.blogspot.com.ar/

HAPPY SINDHI NEW YEAR 2014

SINDHI NEW YEAR 2014
CHETI CHAND FESTIVAL

www.funbull.com - Cheti Chand is celebrated as New Year's Day by Sindhis people. According to the Hindu calendar, Cheti Chand is celebrated on the second day of the Chaitra month known as Chet in Sindhi. So it is known as CHET-I-CHAND. IT is one day after Gudi Padwa and Ugadi. The Sindhi community celebrates the festival of Cheti Chand in honour of the birth of Ishtadeva Uderolal, popularly known as Jhulelal, the Patron Saint of the Sindhis. 
This day is considered to be very auspicious and is celebrated with pompous and gaiety. On this day, people worship water – the elixir of life. There is a spirit associated with this festival which raises the hope and expectations along with the New Year. This one is a homely affair and is rich in all traditions and customs.

On this day many Sindhis take Baharana Sahib to nearby River or Lake. Baharana Sahib is a collection of sweets and accessories for a ceremony and consists of Jyot (Oil Lamp), Misiri (Crystal Sugar), Phota (Cardamom), Fal (Fruits), and Akha. Behind is Kalsh (Water jar) and a Nariyal (Coconut) in it, covered with cloth, phool (flowers) and patta (leaves). There is also a Murti (Idol) of Pujya Jhulelal Devta. Followers of Jhulelal observe Chaliho Sahab. It suggests that for forty long days and nights they underwent rituals and vigil on the bank of Sindhu. 
They did not shave, nor did they wear new clothes or shoes. They did not use soap or oil or any opulent thing. They just washed their clothes, dried them and wore them again. In the evening, they worshipped God Varun, sang songs in his praise and prayed for their solace and salvation. After 40 days of Chaaliho, the followers of Jhulelal celebrate the occasion with festivity as 'Thanksgiving Day' even till today.

Cheti Chand is the Sindhi New Year Day celebrated on the second day of Cheti month (Chaitra month). This year Cheti Chand falls on Tuesday April 01, 2014. It is the birthday’s commemoration of the Sindhi patron saint Jhulelal. This festival is to give honor the birth of Water God (Varuna Devata), popularly known as Jhulelal. Sindhis keep their shops and activities closed on this day, even food are not cooked at the home, and they gathered at Jhulelal Temple, where after a session of singing, the worship of Jhulelal is made and the procession of Baharana begins. Although the Indian National Calendar is the official calendar for the Hindus, as we have explained many times, regional variants still prevail. As a result, Hindus have a host of New Year festivities that are unique to the particular regions on this vast country. This is one significant characteristic of the Indian cultural mélange, and hence, Hindus in various states of India celebrate the New Year in their own ways. And as we have said before, the ancient spirit of India is to tolerate, accept and harmonize in order to achieve unity in diversity; therefore Indian people respect all regional festivals and religious celebrations. So, our greetings to the Sindhi community for this Hindu New Year (Cheti Chand), and along with them we say in the native Sindhi Language “Cheti Chand jyon Lakh Lakh Wadayun Athav”, which means lakhs of wishes for Happy Cheti Chand! (Editor's note).

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US? 

A pertinent question is often raised as to what Hinduism has to offer in regard to the emerging concepts of interfaith. Hinduism may be considered as a living link between the ancient tribal system and the organized religions of the later periods. The ancient concept of Mother Earth is also the basic Vedic theme. Reverence of nature, Earth, sun, planets, rivers, and all the cosmos are the heritage of the Hindu philosophy. The reverence to nature is then extended to family. A unified vision of the world as one family has been ingrained as Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. Hindu sages have always considered different religions as divergent aspects of the same truth. The sages of the modern era, too, have repeatedly prompted us to create a liaison between the East and the West, to achieve the best possible results without compromising the essential and basic principles.

Dr. Hiro Badlani :
“Hinduism - Path of the Ancient Wisdom”
Chapter 55 - “Hinduism and Interfaith”
“The Future Trends in Our World”
http://hinduismpath.com/
http://hinduismpath.com/book-contents/chapter-55

Published by dasavatara das - “Vedic Views on World News”
http://www.vedicviews-worldnews.blogspot.com.ar/

WELCOMING THE TELUGU NEW YEAR!

GUDI PADWA 2014, LOOKING
AHEAD TO A NEW BEGINNING

www.thehindu.com - Just as the colours of Holi are a precursor spring and the vibrant colours in nature; Ugadi is a precursor to new beginnings. This festivity celebrates all things new - a new year, a new season, a new month, a new day. Leaving the past behind and starting afresh with positive expectation is one of the key aspects of Ugadi. Nature too welcomes Ugadi with vivid flowers, tangy green mangoes and fresh green all around! 
Legend attributes the significance of Ugadi to the day that that Lord Brahma embarked on creating the universe. The word Ugadi came from yuga + aadi, yuga means era, aadi means start, the start of a new era and beginning of a new Hindu lunar calendar with a change in the moon's orbit. The new lunar calendar year commences from this day on.

According to the great Indian Mathematician Bhaskaracharya’s calculations; the new year, new month, new season (spring - vasant ruthu) and new day begins at sunrise on Ugadi day, specifically - Chaitra suddha padhyami. Devotees visit temples and seek blessings from God for health, wealth, prosperity, and success in businesses and work. 
A major festival in Andhra Pradesh, Ugadi, is not just the Telugu New Year. This day heralds in the New Year for Kannada, Kashmiri, Marathi and Sindhi communities. In Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, the preparations for the festival begin about a week ahead. Houses are given a thorough wash and families shop for new clothes. On Ugadi day, people wear new clothes and decorate the entrance of their houses with fresh mango leaves colourful rangolis (floral designs).

This year Gudi Padwa falls on March 31st 2014. This Holy festival which marks the beginning of the New Year, new month and new day for Hindus, falls on Chaitra Shukla Pratipadā (the first day of the bright fortnight of the Hindu lunar month of Chaitra). In different regions of India, it is known as Gudī padwa (in Maharashtra state) or Yugaadi (Ugādi) (in the states of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh). The most significant aspect of Ugadi is the panchanga sravanam (listening to the yearly calendar or Panchang) and starting the day with Ugadi pachhadi (chutney). Kavi Sammelanam (poetry recitation) is also a typical Telugu Ugadi feature. Ugadi is also the most auspicious time to start new ventures, and invest in new a house. In India, the regional New Year’s Day is informal and has no official sanction. The regional festivals, marked as New Year's Day, are mainly associated with their respective harvest season; therefore, they may vary from one place to another. Apart from that, the diversity of the festivals is based on the original ethnic variety of Hindu culture. All regional festivals and religious celebrations are respected and appreciated. The ancient spirit of India is to tolerate, accept and harmonize in order to achieve unity in diversity. This is what our spiritual teachers have taught us. So, our greetings for this Hindu New Year (Gudi Padwa)! (Editor's note).

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US? 

Hindus celebrate their religious occasions with great enthusiasm and revelry. True to the liberal style of their functioning, these religious festivals have much variation. ... Regional festivals are many in the Hindu culture. In addition to the common national festivals, Hindus have many festivals that are unique to their own regions. These regional celebrations are often associated with the harvest season and also mark the beginning of the New Year. As the harvest season differs in various parts of the country, the regional New Year days are also many and, as such, have no official sanction. The importance of agriculture in Hindu society is clearly visible on such occasions. ... Makar Sankrati, Gudi Padva, and Cheti Chand are the New Year’s days in some other regions. All of these New Year’s regional festivals are observed with great enthusiasm and gusto.

Dr. Hiro Badlani :
“Hinduism - Path of the Ancient Wisdom”
Chapter 54: "Hindu Festivals"
http://hinduismpath.com/
http://hinduismpath.com/book-contents/chapter-54/

 

Published by dasavatara das - “Vedic Views on World News”
http://www.vedicviews-worldnews.blogspot.com.ar/

LIGHTS OUT FOR EARTH HOUR

MILLIONS SWITCH OFF

FOR EARTH HOUR 2014

AFP News - Lights went off in thousands of cities and towns across the world for the annual Earth Hour campaign, which is aiming to raise money via the internet for local environmental projects. Sydney's Opera House and Harbour Bridge were among the first landmarks around the world to dim their lights for 60 minutes during Saturday's event, organised by conservation group WWF. 
Hong Kong's stunning waterfront skyline was unrecognisable on Saturday evening, with the city's tallest skyscraper, the International Commerce Centre, stripped of the vast light show usually wrapped around its 118 stories. 
Blazing neon signs advertising some of the world's largest brands were shut off, leaving the view of the heavily vertical southern Chinese city peppered only with tiny lights from buildings' interiors.

An estimated 7,000 cities and towns from New Zealand to New York were taking part. Earth Hour partnered with payments giant PayPal to allow donors to contribute to specific projects from Russia and India to Canada and Indonesia, using Asian fundraising site Crowdonomic. Earth Hour chief executive Andy Ridley said before the lights went off in Singapore that the event had moved beyond symbolism to concrete action. 
"If you want to get real social change you need to have symbolism," he told the AFP news agency. "We are seeing some really big outcomes." Projects under the "Earth Hour Blue" crowdfunding scheme - which aim to raise more than $650,000 in total - include a turtle centre in Italy and funding for forest rangers in Indonesia.

Today, Earth Hour calls on residents, businesses and governments to switch off non-essential lights and other electronic items for an hour beginning at 8:30 p.m. local time Saturday to raise awareness about climate change. The event is being marked in more than 150 countries, organisers said, estimating that thousands of cities and towns would have taken part by the time the ceremonies began in Singapore. Earth Hour will see other landmarks including the Empire State Building in New York, the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Kremlin in Moscow switch off their lights for an hour. Last year, 7,000 cities participated in the movement. A record 158 countries and territories are expected to participate in this year's Earth Hour event, according to the WWF website. The great power of Earth Hour is to have hundreds of millions of people around the world doing something together, all of them joined by a common purpose. It is an incredibly powerful thing. Earth Hour serves to remind people that when we put together billions of small individual acts then it is where the difference arises. Today we are making a small gesture to try that the maximum people around the world can be aware of the sad fact that the planet Earth, our home, is subjected to stresses that may make it uninhabitable for ourselves. There are always little things we can do every day to save energy and protect the environment. These are small gestures of each day which will help to change the trend that is leading us to make the planet Earth, a wonderful creation of the Supreme Lord, an uninhabitable place for all living beings. (Editor's note).

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US? 

It’s time that humanity revert to and value a simpler, healthier, and more natural way of life. Only in this way may we attain true health, harmony, and prosperity. ... Nature is one of the manifestations of God; if we mistreat the environment, if we live irresponsibly, in any moment we will be sucked into an abyss. God is in each tree, each plant. The waters of the Earth are the veins of the Lord.  We should proceed with absolute compassion and responsibility, because by not taking care of other living beings, our present planet will become a complete desert.  Polluted waters cause the leukemia of the ecosystem. Mother Earth heals you, she allows you to build houses, sustains you, gives you drinkable water; that is our dear Mother Earth. If you cannot see divinity in the mud, in Mother Earth, it would be very astonishing to see it in anything.

House of Wisdom :  “Eco Conscience - Recommendations”
http://www.houseofwisdom.org/english/advices_eco_conscience.htm
http://www.houseofwisdom.org/english/index.html
http://www.houseofwisdom.org/

Published by dasavatara das - "Vedic Views on World News"
http://www.vedicviews-worldnews.blogspot.com.ar/

'BLING BISHOP' REPLACED

AFTER INQUIRY, POPE FRANCIS
REPLACES GERMAN 'BLING BISHOP'

VATICAN CITY (AP) - Pope Francis on Wednesday permanently removed a German bishop from his Limburg diocese after his 31 million-euro ($43-million) new residence complex caused an uproar among the faithful. Francis had temporarily expelled Monsignor Franz-Peter Tebartz-van Elst from Limburg in October pending a church inquiry. 
At the center of the controversy was the price tag for the construction of a new bishop's residence complex and related renovations. Tebartz-van Elst defended the expenditures, saying the bill was actually for 10 projects and there were additional costs because the buildings were under historical protection. But in a country where Martin Luther launched the Reformation five centuries ago in response to what he said were excesses and abuses within the church, the outcry was enormous.

The perceived lack of financial transparency also struck a chord since a church tax in Germany brings in billions a year to the German church. The Vatican said Wednesday that the inquiry into the renovation found that Tebartz-van Elst could no longer exercise his ministry in Limburg and that Francis had accepted his resignation, which was originally offered Oct. 20.
The Vatican said Monsignor Manfred Grothe, currently an auxiliary bishop in Paderborn, would take over but that Tebartz-van Elst would get a new job "at the opportune time." It added that the pope hoped that the faithful of Limburg would accept the decision with "docility and willingness to rediscover a climate of charity and reconciliation." 

Pope Francis has replaced a German bishop whose $43 million new residence complex sparked outrage among Catholics. The so-called ‘Bishop of Bling,’ Monsignor Franz-Peter Tebartz-van Elst from Limburg was temporarily expelled during a church inquiry in October. Tebartz-van Elst spent lavishly renovating his residence, including a reported $20,000 on a bathtub and $620,000 on artwork. That inquiry has now found him incapable of holding his diocese and demanded his resignation, the Vatican said. His conduct of glitz and glamor contrasts with the attitude of Pope Francisco, who since taking office in the Vatican last year, has emphasized charity and combating social inequality. All people who hold a position of importance, but especially those holding religious posts, must not live the lavish style of kingly life. They should not take delicious foodstuff, nor use luxurious clothing. Those who are dedicated to the service of the Lord and represent God on earth, should  live a life centered on austerity, modesty, temperance and sobriety. Our spiritual masters have taught us that Swamis and Brahmanas should not eat luxurious dishes nor dress in fine garments, they should not live a life of material comfort and pleasure, but they always remain humble and serve Their Lordships Sri Sri Radha Krishna in their mind and heart. (Editor's note).

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US? 

The scriptures establish the superiority of he who is recognized to be a brahmana on account of his virtues. ... Inner tranquility, self-restraint, austerity, cleanliness, contentment, forgiveness, simplicity, knowledge, compassion, devotion to God, and truthfulness are all among the qualities of a brahmana. The activities allocated for each of the four varnas are prescribed solely in accordance with the innate qualities of four types of individual. And according to these qualities and their coincident prescribed activities, the four asramas (societal roles at different stages of life) were created. ... The scriptures condemn those who know nothing of the Absolute Truth but conceitedly flaunt the threads they ceremoniously received, designating their brahminical status, by calling them pasu-vipras - animals dressed up like brahmanas.

Śrīla Bhaktivedanta Vamana Maharaja :
"Javala and Satyakama"
'A man’s Virtues define him, Not his Birth'
http://www.purebhakti.com/teachers/bhakti-discourses-mainmenu-61/52-discourses-2009/1104-javala-and-satyakama.html
http://www.bvml.org/SBVM/index.htm

Published by dasavatara das - “Vedic Views on World News”
http://www.vedicviews-worldnews.blogspot.com.ar/

HOLI FESTIVAL 2014

TODAY, HINDU FESTIVAL OF COLORS
RITUALS AND TRADITIONS OF HOLI

www.boldsky.com - The festival of colours, Holi, is celebrated today with great zeal and enthusiasm throughout India. This festival brings people close to each other and becomes a reason to celebrate the colours of life. The festival fills the atmosphere with the hues of love, joy and brotherhood. Apart from the fun filled part of the festival, there are also a few rituals and traditions associated with it. Since rituals form the crucial part of any Indian festival, Holi is no exception. These rituals are: 
Holika Dahan: All of us know the story of the evil sister of the demon king Hiranyakashipu - Holika. On the pretext of punishing her nephew Prahlad, she herself got burnt to ashes. Since then the custom of Holika Dahan has been in place. 
Playing With Colours: Usually people offer 'Abeer' or 'gulaal' at the feet of the deity of the house. After that the youngsters are supposed to put gulaal on the feet of the elder members of the family and take their blessings. Only after that everyone starts playing colours with each other.

Matka Ceremony: In some parts of India, for example Mathura and Vrindavan, the ceremony of Matki Pod is organised on Holi. An earthen pot filled with milk is hung at an unreachable height and then the boys form a human pyramid to reach the pot and then break it. The women tease the boys by hitting the boys with a rope made out of sarees to prevent them from reaching the pot. They play colours and sing simultaneously. 
The Sweet Festival: In the evening, after taking a bath and getting rid of the colours, people visit each other's house with sweets. Traditional sweets like the Gujiya is served to all the guests. Apart from the sweets, the special drink called Thandai is also served to the guests on Holi. Thus, Holi brings people together and promotes love, harmony and brotherhood.

Today, March 17, is celebrated Holi (also known as Dol Jatra, Basantotsav). Holi is the Hindu festival of colors and it is celebrated at the end of the winter season, on the last full moon day of the lunar month Phalguna. Holi is observed with great fanfare by Hindus all over the world. These celebrations begin on the eve of the festival with bonfires and prayers. Sanchita Chowdhury, author of the article, lists different Holi's rituals and traditions which reflect the eternal spirit of the festival. She explains that many of these rituals of Holi are meticulously followed, especially in the Northern part of India which only add more colours to this festival. Days before the actual festival begins, people start gathering firewood for the Holika Dahan. On the eve of Holi, the ritual of Holika Dahan is carried out. This ritual symbolises the victory of good over evil. As the fire burns brighter, people gather around the bonfire and sing songs. The embers of this holy fire is then carried home and people light fire in their house with these embers. On the day of Holi, people throw colored powder and liquids at each other. A common greeting during this time is, "Happy Holi." Holi takes its name from Holika and honors the triumph of love over evil. For Hare Krishna devotees, Holi reminds them the story of Prahlad, whose devotion to Lord Vishnu allowed him to survive a burning pyre while his evil aunt Holika died; and especially this year, Holi has fallen on the day after Gaura Purnima, the anniversary of the appearance of Sri Lord Chaitanya, a contemporary incarnation of Krishna who lived 500 years ago in India. (Editor's note).

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US? 

Hindus celebrate their religious occasions with great enthusiasm and revelry. The Hindu calendar, panchang, is based on the movement of moon around the earth. The dates of the festivals are determined in accordance with this system and therefore vary from the official Common Era calendar. Holi is the festival of colors, which Hindus celebrate as an event of divine incarnation of their most cherished god, Lord Krishna. It is a state festival, with the president and prime minister taking part in this game of throwing pigment colors and getting covered in many different hues. The gaiety and mirth of this festivity is unique, as no other ethnic group in the world has anything similar to this event. It is a celebration signifying the joy and mirth of the community.

Dr. Hiro Badlani:

“Hinduism - Path of the Ancient Wisdom”

Chapter 54 “Hindu Festivals”

http://hinduismpath.com/

http://hinduismpath.com/book-contents/chapter-54

Published by dasavatara das - “Vedic Views on World News”
http://www.vedicviews-worldnews.blogspot.com.ar/