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Shanthi Sandesh Hindu Temple and Community Center Of Mid-Missouri 2006 Holly Avenue, Columbia, MO 65202-2043 http://shanthimandir.missouri.org (573) 814-1286 V O L U M E

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Brahma Sutras, Key to Salvation H.R. Chandrasekhar “Athato Brahmajijnas ; Now, therefore, let us debate Brahman, the ultimate reality.”

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Inside This Issue Brahma Sutras Executive Board

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Yoga: Part 1

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Bal Sandesh

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Odissi’s Journey Through the Ages

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HTCC Hosts 2009 Interfaith Thanksgiving

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Rangeela

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Bhagavad Gita: Part 8

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Quarterly Fiscal Report

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HTCC Anniversary

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Donor Acknowledgment

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Community Calendar

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Current Programs

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hus begins Brahma Sūtra which is considered to be the third leg of Vedānta, the philosophical branch of Hinduism. In the previous two issues of Shanthi Sandesh, I have discussed Upanishads and Bhagavad-Gita, the other two legs of Vedānta. In this article, I shall discuss Brahma Sūtra, perhaps least discussed in popular circles due to its complexity and rigor. The authorship of Brahma Sūtra is attributed to sage Vyasa, also known as Badarayana, who composed the popular epic Mahabharata.

No study of Vedānta is considered complete without a close examination of the Prasthāna Traya, the texts that stand as its three starting points. The Upanishads are called Śruti prasthāna, the starting point of revelation.

Bhagavad-Gita is known as Smriti prasthāna, the starting point of remembered tradition.

It is in the Brahma Sūtras that

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s we begin our fifth year of service to the community, it is important to reflect on where we are and where we would like to be the next decade and beyond. Thanks to Divine grace, we have come a long way since that first day on September 7, 2005 when Shanthi Mandir had its first devotional service to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi. During the four years, the Mandir has awakened the “spirit” and it no longer serves just as our “inanimate home”, true to the doha (couplet) Moko Kahan Dhundhere Bande Mein To

the teachings of Vedānta are set forth in a systematic and logical order.

The Brahma Sūtras are also known by other names: Vedānta Sūtras, Uttara Mīmāmsā-sūtras, Śārīraka Sūtras, Śārīraka Mimāmsāsūtras. Vaishnavas also call this the Bhikshu sūtras.

Shankara, the eighth century philosopher, is noted for his interpretation of this ancient treatise which he effectively used to debate and defeat scholars of differing philosophical beliefs. In a celebrated debate with Mandana Misra, an influential scholar in Kashmir, Shankara soundly defeated him.

Mandana Misra became a devout follower of Shankara and received the new name Sureshvara. In this new identity, he served as the chief pontiff of the then newly established monastery in Sringeri by Shankara. A celebrated line of pontiffs under

the title of Shankaracharyas have continued upto this date and Sringeri holds a special place for Hindu scholars.

Shankara is referred to as “Adi Shankara”, i.e., “Shankara the First” due to this reason.

The Brahma Sūtras attempt to reconcile the seemingly contradictory and diverse statements of the various Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gītā, by placing each teaching in a doctrinal context. The word Sutra means thread, and the Brahma Sūtras literally stitch together the various teachings of Vedanta into a logical and self-consistent whole.

However, the Brahma Sūtras are so terse that not only are they capable of being interpreted in multiple ways, but they are often incomprehensible without the aid of the various commentaries handed down by scholars and teachers such as Adi Shankara. continued on Page 2

Message from the Executive Board Tere Paas Mein (Where do you search for me, the Divine?

I am with you) immortalized by the influential mystic Sant Kabir. HTCC, the organization, and Shanthi Mandir, our beloved temple, have been able to, during this time, galvanize the spirit of the “community”. The Mandir now serves as the focal point for most of our festival celebrations, educational activities, youth programs and volunteer service projects. The

last activity has been particularly rewarding, given the growing need for such community support during the long drawn-out economic downturn. HTCC has also allowed us the opportunity to seamlessly integrate with local service organizations and other faith groups to become a part of the larger service landscape in Columbia. We are blessed with countless volunteers and other well-wishers who have continued on Page 3

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Brahman. Isvara or Saguna Brahman is a product of Maya.

Worship of Isvara leads to Shankara’s commentary set Mukti. The pious devotees (the forth the Advaita or the monistic knowers of Saguna Brahman) interpretation of Vedānta, and go to Brahmaloka and attain was commented upon by final release through highest Vachaspati and Padmapada. knowledge. They do not return These sub-commentaries, in to this world. They attain the turn, inspired other derivative Nirguna Brahman at the end of texts in the Advaita school. the cycle. Knowledge of Nirguna The eleventh century Brahman is the only means of philosopher Ramanuja also liberation. The knowers of wrote a commentary on the Nirguna Brahman attain Brahma Sūtra. His treatise immediate final release or called Sri Bhashya, lays the Sadyomukti. They need not go foundations of the Vishishta by the path of gods or the path Advaita or qualified monism of Devayana. They merge tradition. This point of view themselves in Para Brahman. bridged the difference between They do not go to any Loka or the Dvaita (Dualism) philosophy world. Sri Shankara's Brahman of Saint Madhva with that of Adi is Nirvisesha Brahman Shankara.

(Impersonal Absolute) without Other commentators on the attributes.

Brahma Sūtras, belonging to According to Sri Ramanuja, other schools of Vedānta, Brahman is with attributes include Bhāskara, (Savisesha). He is endowed Yādavaprakāśa, Keśava, Brahman is that from which the with all auspicious qualities. He Nīlakaņţha, Madhava, Vallabha, world has its origin, sustenance, is not intelligence itself.

Vijnanabhikshu, Nimbarka and Intelligence is his chief attribute. and dissolution. Brahman is Vidyabhushana.

He contains within Himself eternally pure, wise, and free The Vedānta Sūtras supply whatever exists. World and (Nitya, Buddha, Mukta ample evidence that at a very individual souls are essential Svabhava). He is the sole early time, i.e., a period before real constituents of Brahman's cause, stay, and final resort of their own final composition, nature. Matter (Achit) and soul this world. Hence He is there were differences of (Chit) form the body of the Lord, Omnipotent and Omniscient. opinion among the various Lord Narayana who is the Inner According to Adi Shankara, interpreters of the Vedānta. there is one Absolute Brahman. Ruler (Antaryamin). Matter and Quoted in the Vedānta Sūtras souls are called modes of Him He is Sat-chit-ananda, an are opinions ascribed to (Prakara). The individual souls embodiment of permanence, Audulomi, Kārshnāgni, will never be entirely resolved in thought, and bliss. He is of an Kāśakŗtsna, Jaimini and Bādari, absolutely homogeneous Brahman. According to in addition to Vyasa, the original nature. The appearance of this Ramanuja, Brahman is not author. absolutely one and world is due to Maya - the The Brahma Sūtras consist of illusory power of Brahman which homogeneous. The individual 555 aphorisms or sūtras, in four is neither Sat nor Asat. This souls undergo a state of chapters (adhyāya), each Sankocha (contraction) during world is unreal. This world is a chapter being divided into four Vivarta or apparent modification Pralaya. They expand (Vikasa) quarters (pāda). Each quarter during creation. Sri Ramanuja's through Maya. Brahman consists of several groups of Brahman is a Personal God with appears as this universe sūtras called Adhikaraņas or attributes. The individual soul of through Maya. Brahman is the topical sections. An Adhikaraņa only reality. The soul of an Ramanuja is really individual. It usually consists of several will remain a personality forever. individual, though a sūtras, but some have only one manifestation of Brahman, is The soul remains in Vaikuntha sūtra. forever in a state of bliss and seemingly limited due to its enjoys the divine Aisvarya of The first chapter (Samanvaya: identification with the body and harmony) explains that all the Lord Narayana. Bhakti is the other vehicles. Through his Vedānta texts talk of Brahman, selfish actions Brahman enjoys chief means to final the ultimate reality, which is the the fruits of his actions. He emancipation and not Jnana. Sri goal of life. The very first sūtra becomes the actor and enjoyer. Ramanuja follows in his offers an indication into the Bhashya the authority of He regards himself as atomic nature of the subject matter. The and as an agent on account of Bodhayana. second chapter (Avirodha: non- Avidya or the limiting According to Sri conflict) discusses and refutes Nimbarkacharya, Brahman is Antahkarana. The individual the possible objections to considered as both the efficient soul becomes identical with Vedānta philosophy. The third and material cause of the world.

Brahman when his Avidya is chapter (Sādhana: the means) Brahman is both Nirguna and destroyed. In reality Jiva is allcontinued on Page 4 describes the process by which pervading and identical with Brahma Sutras continued from Page 1

Thought-free am I, formless my only form, I am the vitality behind all sense organs of everyone; Neither have I attachment to anything, nor am I free from everything; I am allinclusive; I am Auspiciousness, Auspiciousness, alone.

Adi Shankara

ultimate emancipation can be achieved. The fourth chapter (Phala: the fruit) talks of the state that is achieved in final emancipation.

These sūtras systematize the jñānakāņda (path of wisdom, as opposed to Karmakāņda, the path of action) of Veda, by combining the two tasks of concisely stating the teaching of the Veda and argumentatively establishing the specific interpretation of the Veda adopted in the sūtras.

The sūtras also discuss the role of karma and God and critically address the various doctrines associated with Buddhism, Jainism, Yoga, Atheism, and Sankhya philosophies.

The nature of Brahman is defined in Brahma Sūtra as “Janmadyasya yatah” I.1.2 (2).

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Message from the Executive Board continued from Page 1

provided leadership and unstinted support.

The Executive Board is truly indebted to all our volunteers. In this context, it is heartwarming to note that several former volunteer families continue to maintain strong bonds with HTCC and the Mandir even from faraway places – Balaji, Akila, Naimish and Nithya in Chennai, India and Ram and Indira near Atlanta, GA renewed their 2010 Annual Family Memberships!

While we miss their dedicated volunteerism at the Mandir very much, we are immensely grateful for their continued support.

With our regular services now at a steady state, it is time for us to focus on planned growth with a view to welcome newcomers to the Mandir-fold and expand our program offerings. We should also concurrently focus on planning for the future with a view to provide our membership with the Mandir infrastructure necessary to accomplish these goals in the years to come. We seek member support for these initiatives, be it timely feedback, volunteer service on committees, or moral and financial support.

In late November 2009, HTCC had the opportunity to host the Columbia Interfaith Council’s 2009 Interfaith Thanksgiving celebrations. This event, organized in association with the Chancellor’s Diversity Initiative at MU and the Cultural Association of India, was held at MU’s Stotler Lounge. The celebration comprising short presentations from many faith groups, included a lead-in with Vedic chants by members of MU’s Vedic Society, a multi-faith finale of “Hum Hongey Kaamyaab – We Shall Overcome” and tasty ethnic finger foods during the postcelebration social hour. Leela Jashnani provided leadership on behalf of HTCC for the well-attended event. Additional details of the celebration are included on Page 8.

Also in late November, Gyani Santokh Singh of St. Louis led the Special Kirtan at Shanthi Mandir to celebrate Gurpurab (Guru Nanak Jayanthi).

The annual event, now a Shanthi Mandir tradition, was very well attended.

As has become the tradition, we heralded 2010 with a session of meditation led by Kate Walker to Mother’s organ music and a Special Bhajan led by the Sai Bhajan Group.

Our membership drive for 2010 is currently in full swing. We already have

several new members in 2010 in addition to the renewal of many of our 2009 members. Please remember to renew your membership, if you have not already done so. Please also consider upgrading your annual membership to lifetime membership. The lifetime dues provide the HTCC with a strong ownership base and steady stream of revenue for delivering quality devotional, education, cultural, youth and service programs. Our lifetime membership now stands at 66. We typically have had 30-35 annual members each year. Well over 150 families attend our various regular services, educational programs and special pujas.

Visala Palaniappan chairs the ad-hoc committee to plan the Fourth Anniversary Celebrations (see also additional details on Page 11). This committee comprising approximately a dozen volunteers has been diligently planning for the celebration since late December 2009. The Fourth Anniversary Banquet is to be held at the Peach Tree Banquet Center on Friday, March 5th. Our Annual Report for 2009, Samarpanam 2010, will be released at the banquet. We also have an extremely talented group of local artistes providing entertainment for the evening, including an Odissi dance by Aditi Bandyopadhyay, Jhuma Das and Anagha Sawant, a karaoke performance of nostalgic Bollywood songs from the 60s and 70s by Jaskaran Sandhu, and the motherdaughter duo of Padmini and Smrita Dorairajan performing a Bharata Natyam dance. Youth will be engaged with several hands-on arts and crafts projects, thanks to the enthusiastic instruction provided by Amy Messener. The music of DJ Raj Suppiah will draw you to the Open Dance Floor following the entertainment program.

At the banquet, we will formally induct Prof.

Emeritus Gerald Barrier as an Honorary Member of the HTCC. The theme for this year’s contests organized by the Youth Activities committee is titled “Be the Change You Want to See…”.

The topic draws inspiration from one of Gandhiji’s popular quotations.

Mementoes from HTCC and DVDs/CDs from the Kadri Gopalnath saxophone concert will be on sale to raise funds for HTCC. Our Mandir will also benefit by funds raised during the evening by a Silent Auction organized by Priya Batchu. The Silent Auction comprises donated art items

and handmade jewelry. The Fourth Anniversary Devotional program has been scheduled for Saturday, March 13th at the Mandir with a “Havan” to be led by Shivendra Shukla followed by bhajans and devotional songs led by an invited group from Chicago and a pot-luck dinner.

The lead article in this issue by Holalkere Chandrasekhar provides a good overview of Brahma Sutra, considered the third leg of Vedānta, the philosophical branch of Hinduism. In the two preceding issues of Shanthi Sandesh he has introduced our readers to Bhagavad-Gita and Upanishads, the other two legs of Vedānta. Saroj Mohanji continues with the eighth part in the Bhagavad Gita series on Karma Yoga, the path to realization of the Divine through selfless service. Ritcha Mehra-Chaudhary in Part 1 of her series of articles on Yoga, offers a succinct history drawing on its links to lessons in the Hindu scriptures of uniting mind, body, and soul. Aditi Bandyopadhyay provides a comprehensive introduction to the Odissi classical dance form and Ravi Thawani introduces Bal Sabha, a dynamic youth group with a very diverse range of activities. Last but not the least, in addition to these fine articles we have Maya Cutkosky’s poetic contribution “The Dream Unraveled” in the Bal Sandesh section of our newsletter. Enjoy reading!

This will be the last column for some on the Executive Board as we look forward to renewal of leadership with the upcoming HTCC Elections in March 2010. Renewal is an important aspect of leadership in an organization such as ours. New ideas, new vision and renewed enthusiasm come with such changes and allow organizations to grow and change to serve the community better. You should be soon hearing from the HTCC Election Committee seeking approval of new election procedures and nominations for the positions of President and Secretary of the Executive Board as well as two Elected Trustees as the terms of Vellore Gopalaratnam (President, HTCC EB), Inder Khurana (Secretary, EB), Arun Jain and Sudarshan Loyalka (Elected Board of Trustees) end on March 31, 2010.

Gopal and Inder have thoroughly enjoyed serving you in their elected capacities. We will undoubtedly play an active role in other capacities to help HTCC and the Mandir grow and adapt to the changing needs of our community.

And as always, see you at the Mandir☯ Vellore S. Gopalaratnam Inder Khurana Manjula Narasimhan Ravi Thawani

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Yoga, Part 1: A Brief History Ritcha Mehra-Chaudhary

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Yoga teaches us to cure what need not be endured and endure what cannot be cured.

B.K.S. Iyengar

n Sanskrit, Yoga means “union” – a union of mind, body, and soul. This “union” can be achieved through the practice of various poses and practices that comprise Yoga.

Yoga is an ancient philosophy that originated 5,000–8,000 years ago in India. Its history spans the history of India through the ancient Indus Valley civilization (c. 3500 BC) to Vedic civilization (c. 1500 BC) followed by its written elaborations in Hindu texts, an absorption into Buddhist and Jain philosophy, and finally its infusion in modern day life.

The practice of Yoga existed as far back as the Indus Valley civilization (c. 3500–1700 BC) that flourished around the Indus and now extinct Saraswati rivers. Several seals discovered at the Indus Valley Civilization excavation sites depict figures in a yoga or meditation-like posture.

The oldest written record of yogic practices is found in the Vedas which are a compilation of hymns and rituals approximately 4000 years old.

Vedic Yoga revolved around the thought of reuniting the visible material world with the invisible spiritual world. The Rig Veda, the oldest Hindu text,

speaks about gaining insight to the “Sun of Truth”. These Vedic teachings were transmitted to the people by Vedic prophets or Rishis, who had gained insight into the origin of life and its existence. Some of these famous Vedic sages include names like Vasishta, Yajnavalkya, and Jaigishavya.

The next period in the history of Yoga, sometimes also referred to as the “pre-classical Yoga”, spans another 2000 years. During this period, ideas of uniting mind, body, and soul to the cosmic one were first described in the ancient Hindu texts Upanishads or Vedanta (commentaries on the Vedas).

Then around 500 BC, in the Bhagavad-Gita, Lord Krishna outlined a detailed yogic path of devotion (Bhakti Yoga), that included a keen mind (Jnana Yoga) and giving up of the ego (Karma Yoga) to obtain spiritual enlightenment or Moksha.

During the “Classical Yoga period”, somewhere between 200 BC – 200 AD, sage

individuality of the finite self (Jivatman) is not dissolved even in the state of final emancipation.

Saguna. The universe is not Sri Ramanuja also holds that the unreal or illusory but is a true Jiva assumes the divine body of manifestation or Parinama of Sri Narayana with four hands Brahman. (Sri Ramanuja also and enjoys in Vaikuntha the holds this view. He says "Just as divine Aisvarya of the Lord. milk is transformed into curd, so The Jnana Yoga path of also Brahman has transformed knowledge advanced by Himself as this universe"). This Shankara, the Bhakti Yoga of world is identical with and at the devotion of Madhva and same time different from Ramanuja are different rungs in Brahman, just as the wave or the ladder of Yoga. The student bubble is the same and at the must place his foot step by step same time different from water. and finally reach the highest The individual souls are parts of peak of salvation. Different the Supreme Self. They are schools are necessary to suit the controlled by the Supreme taste, capacity, and stage of Being. The final salvation lies in evolution of the aspirant. realising the true nature of one's Shankara has taken Brahman own soul. This can be achieved in His transcendental aspect,

by Bhakti (devotion). The while Sri Ramanuja has taken

Brahma Sutras continued from Page 2

Patanjali compiled the thousands of years of ancient Yogic knowledge into 195 Sutras or concise aphorisms.

Often called “the father of yoga,” Patanjali, who was actually a physician, is regarded as the founder of the formal “Yoga philosophy”. A great number of independent yoga schools and forms developed during the period after the Yoga sutras were compiled and are usually referred to as “post-classical Yoga”. The new generation of Yogis, developed a system where different exercises – in conjunction with deep breathing and meditation, would help keep the body young and prolong life and also help attain moksha.

During its several thousand year old passage through the ancient Indian civilization to the modern day world, Yoga has evolved as a spiritual practice that does not subscribe nor promote any particular religion.

The philosophy of Yoga has stood the test of time and has emerged as a practice that has the power to transform negative thoughts and energy into positive forces of peacefulness, goodwill, and good health☯

Him chiefly in His immanent aspect. Shankara fought to remove the baneful effects of blind ritualism. He valued selfless service or Nishkama Karma Yoga. He condemned the performance of rituals with selfish motives.

Shankara Bhashya is the oldest of all commentaries. It upholds Suddha-Para-Brahman or the Supreme Self of the Upanishads as something superior to other divine beings. It propounds a very bold philosophy and declares emphatically that the individual soul is identical with the Supreme Self. One of the bold assertions that epitomizes this philosophy is “Aham Brahmasmi”. I am the Brahman ☯

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Newsletter of Bal Sabha of Columbia, MO Bal Sabha Officers President Ravi Thawani

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February 2010

EDITOR’S NOTE

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Vice-President Sridhar Kalluri Secretary/Treasurer Manjula Narasimhan Cultural Secretary Alagu Arunachalam Bal Sandesh Coordinator Hema Srinivasan

al Sandesh wishes all its members and readers a very Happy and Prosperous New Year 2010. This issue is filled with many happy photographs from the Pongal Festival celebrated in our town on January 16, 2010. We also have pictures from Fall Clean Up showing enthusiastic participation by our Bal Sabha members. We have articles by our President Ravi Thawani on the activities of Bal Sabha and a poem by Maya Cutkosky. Please send in your articles, poems, drawings, and all other creative works for Bal Sandesh☯

Editors

Bal Sabha of Columbia: A Report Ravi Thawani

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he objectives of the Bal Sabha of Columbia, Missouri are: To create among youngsters an awareness of India's history and culture.

To provide youngsters avenues to research topics related to India and present it to Bal Sabha membership.

To provide youngsters a means of acquiring knowledge about India from their peers.

To provide youngsters a means of being involved and serve the Columbia community.

To provide the Columbia community a perspective of India's culture by means of a regular Bal Sabha newsletter.

In keeping up with their tradition, Bal Sabha children have been very active during the past three months.

On October 30th, 2009, Bal Sabha children began the annual “India Nite” program by singing the customary Indian and US National Anthems. The audience caught the contagious patriotic mood and joined the Bal Sabha kids in the singing as well. The children looked very beautiful in their colorful clothes.

It was time for some community service during Fall Clean Up held on November 7th, 2009 at Ridgeway Elementary School. It was a perfect day for outdoor activity.

etc. They even showed a movie clip in which Pitthu was being played. After the presentation everyone was invited and encouraged to participate in playing several of these games. We noticed that the games were very well received and played by all the attendees.

All families in and around Columbia are encouraged to get actively involved in Bal Sabha. For more information please contact: Alagu Arunachalam Altogether 10 bags of trash were collected (alaguv72@yahoo.com) by cleaning up around the school. The only Arpita Kumar (arpitakumar@yahoo.com) unusual item found was a 10” bone Hema Srinivasan belonging to an animal. Light refreshments, (hemaxsrinivasan@gmail.com) provided by Bal Sabha, were shared by Manjula Narasimhan everyone after the clean up. The children (manjula517@yahoo.com) and adults had a great time sharing the Ravi Thawani (R_Thawani@hotmail.com) camaraderie while giving something back Sridhar Kalluri(skalluri@gmail.com) to the community. The next such activity will be on the “Columbia Clean Up” day in April, 2010. Please look out for the exact dates in your e mail.

Poonam and Sanjeev Sethi hosted the Bal Sabha on November 29th, 2009. Their children, Anchal and Anmol Sethi, presented a PowerPoint on “The Folk Games of India”. The presentation was very informative and described how games such as carrom, chess, ludo, marbles, etc. are played. They described other traditional games like Pitthu, Gilli-Danda, Kabaddi,

Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom. Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power.

Lao-Tzu

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The Dream Unraveled Maya Cutkosky

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’was in the depth of summertime, she came galloping in.

Her strong hoofs dark, her large ears light, and her wings translucent blue.

I tell you true of this stunning creature, I’ve never seen nor heard, Yet at first sight, that magical night, I fell in love with her.

I knew my creature of the night, was And by some chance, some spell no monstrous beast. turned man, dropped a knife in front So off I went, of warning bent, to of me! save her that I found.

T’was in the depth of summertime, I T’was in the depth of summertime, started feeling hope. that noon strayed overtime.

Knife in foot, and eyes alert, I saw The heat laid in, the sun stayed up, rope off my hands. and clocks stopped changing time.

I watch the huntress carefully, so I No searcher thought that this was might free my friend.

T’was in the depth of summertime, a strange, I asked the creature why.

And off I go, as her gaze roams, and storm cloud gathered by She seemed to know, and off she burns the rope she holds.

And no one there, that I could see, flew, with me into the sky.

T’was in the depth of summertime, only she and I. T’was in the depth of summertime, I victory prevailed Yet saw I in that magnificent gaze, traveled through felt the wind.

People released, the time begun, fear in her eyes.

Knew not I, nor I think her, to where the huntress disappeared.

So fast and fleet, in my woodland we flew with haste.

My creature came and nuzzled me, creek, hid I her that night.

The huntress, with her beautiful then flew into the air.

T’was in the depth of summertime, chain, caught us at the cliff, And since that flight, no summer in day’s blistering heat, And at that slope, with a rope, she night, has she graced my house Came she so fine, with golden hair, bounded me and her. again. and a voice so very sweet.

T’was in depth of summertime, I She said she was an adventurer, T’was in the depth of summertime, saw a wondrous sight, looking for a beast. saw I prisons dark and cold, An adventure fair, a beauty saved, And some spell went by, making all Sadden tears, and equine shrieks, and magic personified. but I, try desperately to please her. and hopelessness filled the air.

Saw us a glimpse of the world at Helpless, chained and enraged was T’was in the depth of summertime, I large, as none have ever seen it.

I, watching the huntress with “her” first felt terror’s grip.

Yet none but I, yet none but I, beast The day was long, the searchers remember the dream unraveled☯ many, and no friend safe to call.

Pongal Rangoli

Invention is the talent of youth, as judgment is of age.

Jonathan Swift

Celebrating and Feasting at Pongal, the Harvest Festival!

Bal Sandesh needs you!

We welcome submissions of all types (reports, poetry, short stories, artwork, puzzles, jokes etc.).

Work can be submitted to the Editors or the Parent Advisor. We prefer electronic version of the submission (e-mail or diskette). Artwork can be submitted on paper. Older kids interested in volunteering to serve on the editorial team should contact the Editorial Staff or the Parent Advisor.

Bal Sabha meets every fourth Sunday of the month from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. at Shanthi Mandir

Editorial Staff Anchal Sethi Maya Cutkosky Neeta Thawani Nidhi Khurana Prerna Srinivasan Vikram Arunachalam Parent Advisor Hema Srinivasan

Phone (573) 514-0486 (573) 445-2854 (660) 882-5317 (573) 874-9647 (573) 445-0033 (573) 445-2854

E-Mail danzingdivas@yahoo.com booneville.kid@hotmail.com n_khurana@yahoo.com

srinivasanh@missouri.edu

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Odissi’s Journey Through the Ages Aditi Bandyopadhyay

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dissi is a classical dance form that originated in eastern India, primarily in the present day state of Orissa from which it derives its name. The dance form has a rich and interesting history. Odissi was once a formal part of the worship of the gods in temple halls (Devasabha), and was allowed to be performed regularly in public halls (Janasabha) only since the latter half of the twentieth century. So, in spite of being one of the ancient classical dance forms of India, Odissi was well behind other classical dance forms in terms Sculptures on the temple walls of Konark of getting recognition on the world stage. who sang and danced in praise of Lord Here is a brief history of Odissi’s journey Jagannath. They from the devasabha to the janasabha. continued to perform until they became Historical Background adolescents. After that, many of them became instructors and trained a new From time immemorial, a close generation of gotipuas. A few who had a relationship has existed between Indian sound knowledge of dance were chosen to classical dance and sculpture. Besides become the instructors to the maharis. sharing the same aesthetic principles, the Apart from these two traditions, several two art forms share certain laws of palm leaf manuscripts illustrated with execution, to such an extent that dance sketches depicting some of the postures may be regarded as animated sculpture and movements of Odissi have come down and sculpture as dance frozen in time. to us. They have been of immense help in Archeological evidence suggests that reviving the art form in the latter half of the Odissi is the earliest dance form of India. last century.

Inscriptions on the walls of the Ranigumpha caves in Orissa, dating back to the reign of the Jain monarch Kharavela Technique and Repertoire Odissi’s striking feature is its sculptural during 2nd century BC, predates by more quality, which is evident in its body bends, than 400 years the Natyashastra, the text on the grammar of Indian classical dances torso movements, and head deflections. In spite of these static postures, there is a composed by Bharatmuni. The sculptures on these cave walls depict scenes of dance sharp contrast formed by its rich and vibrant footwork. The dancer acquires a that closely resemble Odissi. In the 12th century AD, a ruler of the Ganga dynasty graceful tribhanga posture by bending the built the famous temple of Lord Jagannath body into three bends, or holds herself in at Puri on the coast of the Bay of Bengal. the fundamental chouka posture where the Centered around this temple developed a body weight is equally distributed on both new era of culture, and Odissi became an limbs. inseparable part of the temple rituals ever Odissi dance items are based on pure since. Dance before the deity was dance as well as abhinaya or acting, where performed by a group of female dancers the dancer acts out a situation or character. known as maharis or devdasis. The devdasis were dedicated to the service of Lord Jagannath and were allowed to perform only within the temple premises to maintain the sanctity of the art form.

Besides devdasis, another institution known as gotipua kept the art form alive outside the temple. This comprised of young boys dressed as girls

Odissi dancers need to have a sound knowledge of abhinaya. Devotional themes, as well as innovative ideas based on modern day concepts, have found place in modern day Odissi. However the eternal beauty of Odissi is in the rendition of ashtapadis based on the verses of the Geetagovindam, a medieval text describing the celestial love of Radha and Krishna.

The dance is in itself a deep form of meditation with movements that are created to evoke a perfect connection between the physical and mental states in the dancer.

The rich music adds an additional dimension to this art form. Although based on Hindustani classical ragas or melodies, the music has been able to retain its own identity and is characterized by its unique melodies and vibrant rhythms.

Retrieval and Continuity Although the first professional theatre of Orissa was founded in 1918 to promote Odissi, the dance form was virtually unknown till the end of the British rule in India. Indrani Rahman, a celebrated Bharatnatyam exponent and the first Indian faculty of dance at the Julliard School in New York, was the first artist to include Odissi in her international dance tour. She was a disciple of Guru Debaprasad Das. Meanwhile, great exponents and Gurus of Odissi, like Guru Pankaj Charan Das (born in the family of Maharis), Guru Kelucharan Mahapatra (who started his career as a Gotipua dancer), Guru Debaprasad Das, and Guru Hare Krishna Behera had begun their own research in reviving this art form.

Performances by their able students like Sanjukta Panigrahi, Sonal Mansingh, Madhavi Mudgal, Kum Kum Mohanty, Pratima Gauri Bedi, among many others, brought Odissi on the same platform as the other classical dance forms in a very short period of time. Thus, the art form dedicated to Lord Jagannath was rapidly assimilated into the culture of the global janasabha.

Nowadays, more and more dancers are interested in this dance form, and much innovative choreography is being created all over the world. After several centuries of confinement, Odissi has finally broken free and has opened our eyes to a whole new world of elegance and grace☯ The author is an instructor of Odissi dance who teaches regularly at the MU Dance and Recreation Association (MUDRA) in Columbia, MO. Further details are available at http://www.aditibandyopadhyay.net.

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SHANTHI

SANDESH

HTCC Hosts the 2009 Interfaith Thanksgiving Leela Jashnani

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reetings from the External Affairs committee! We were active all during the year, hosting various groups, organizing our annual celebration, and finally, preparing for the big end of year celebration organized by the Interfaith Council members. This year’s host for the Ecumenical Interfaith Thanksgiving Celebration was the Hindu Temple and Community Center.

We actively participated in the organizing committee and helped put together a vibrant interactive program which

culminated with the sharing of ethnic foods brought in by the various groups.

The Interfaith Thanksgiving was celebrated on November 20th at the Memorial Union on the University campus. The Chancellor’s Diversity Initiative office and the Cultural Association of India also provided assistance with the hosting of the event. The celebration was a great success and everyone in attendance had a thought provoking yet gala time. There were cultural and/or religious presentations made by

individuals and groups from the various communities that participated. The colorful, yet meaningful atmosphere contributed to the feeling of caring and sharing.

We hope to keep this tradition alive during the coming years even though there will be other faith-based groups that will be hosting the event. The Hindu community will participate and assist in whatever manner necessary. Please feel free to participate in our community events by volunteering your time and talent☯

2009 Interfaith Thanksgiving Celebrations.

Photos courtesy: Mark Perkins

Rangeela: Adding Maaza to Mizzou Sheela Lal Rangeela is a south Asian radio program on the Mizzou radio station KCOU 88.1. As it's set up, Rangeela offers music for potentially everything in the Indian community. We have tried to include a wide range in year, style, and language in each set to create inclusivity. Also, there will be entertainment updates as well as a cultural discussion pertaining to immediate effects of India's role in globalization. The show airs Sundays (during the school year) from 4-6 pm on 88.1 FM. The show's email address is rangeela881@gmail.com and we would really appreciate music requests and show critiques☯

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Shreemad Bhagavad Gita - Part 8 Saroj Mohan

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ntil this point Shri Krishna talked about the importance of unselfish actions and the need to share with others.

We now continue on to the 14th and 15th verses in which Shri Krishna talks about the all pervasive Divine in all actions and results. This is a precondition and recognition of a state where work becomes worship. This is an important, required state of enlightenment for a perfect Karmayogi.

Shri Krishna elaborates, “All living beings are sustained by Annam or food grains.

Food grains grow by rain and are essential to the Yagnas which cannot be performed without grains. All the Yagnas are possible

by VihitKarmas or proper prescribed actions. These actions are prescribed by the Vedas which are themselves given by the Paramatma Himself.

It is necessary to understand that the “All Pervasive Divine” is in all things and beings. This leads to the Knowledge of Oneness of all, where work becomes worship.

Shri Krishna, in the 16th verse uses strong words to describe those who do not perform their prescribed duties. Shri Krishna says, “O Parth, son of Pritha, the person who does not act according to his proper Kartavya Karmas or prescribed duties and indulges in enjoyments of the sense organs, is a person who is full of sin and his life is useless.”

So far, Shri Krishna has been describing the duties of a worldly person. In the 17th verse he proceeds to describe the state of a Mahatma or self-realized sage. Shri Krishna says, “Those who are in the state of Atmaratih or the blissful state of selfrealization, totally content and reveling in the happiness of Atmaratih do not have any Kartavya Karmas or prescribed duties to perform.”

In other words, an egocentric Jeevatma who is in the state of ignorance and duality needs to perform his duties, but a Mahatma who is in the non-dual state of Self-realization, blissful and content, has no duties what so ever.

The condition of such a Mahatma is described in the 18th verse.

“In a Mahatma there is no purpose or inclination to perform any action because he has no relationship of duality with Jeevas and life. He does not have the slightest selfish desire or relationship because he does not see anything other than his Self. He revels in the bliss of his own Self.”

For every relationship there is a purpose, a subject and a desired object to be gained. A Mahatma sees his own Self

In the 22nd verse, Shri Krishna talks about a very important thing regarding Karmayoga. He talks in first person. He describes the benefits and ill effects of performing or not performing, respectively, the required actions.

He says, “O Arjuna , I do not need to do any thing in these three worlds, (as a Selfrealized person) because there is nothing that I want to achieve or desire to do here, but I still carry out my duties and perform my proper prescribed actions or Kartavya Karmas in this world.”

Although, as a self-realized person, Shri Krishna does not need to do any thing in the three worlds or Trilokya, but He still performs His proper duties like an ordinary person since it is for the welfare of society and for others to follow his example.

This message is clear- being lazy is not acceptable and omitting Yagnas is not good at all. Instead, one must carry out Shri Krishna says, "So do your Kartavya one’s Kartavya Karmas with full dedication and perfection.

Karmas or prescribed duties with full Shri Krishna continues to explain in the dedication, but without the desire for the 23rd verse that if he himself does not carry fruits of your action. In so doing your out his duties well, people will not follow his duties, unattached and fully dedicated, example and they will not carry out their through Karma yoga, you will realize the duties as prescribed. The Knower of the Paramatma. This is a path to union with truth, the one who is ever in the state of the Divine through karmas or actions.” pure Infinite consciousness, must still do In the 20th verse, Shri Krishna gives an the prescribed duties like ordinary people example of a Gyani or self-realized king. so that they will follow Him. Desires create He says, “King Janak, who was a great restlessness, discontent and distress in the “Man of Wisdom”, performed his royal life of an ordinary man, but a “Man of duties with full dedication and perfection for the welfare of his kingdom and society, Wisdom” has no such problems. He acts only for the welfare of humanity. These are yet he was totally unattached to his actions. He achieved Paramsiddhee or the the benefits we gain from the actions of a wise man. great state of perfection in his life.”

Shri Krishna then goes to explain that if It is clear how prescribed duties which are performed correctly, through Karmyoga he does not carry out his Karmas then he can lead to union with the Paramatma. will be responsible for the ruin of people.

In the 21st verse which is very famous When people do not perform their and often quoted, prescribed duties, society as a whole Shri Krishna says suffers. It is clear that a self-realized “Man of Wisdom” should do his Kartavya “Yad yad aacharti shreshth, Karmas or prescribed duties for the benefit Tad tad eva iterh janaa, and smooth running of society, even Sah yad pramaana kurute, though he does not have to do them.

Lokh tad tadauvartatae.”

As great and wise people act and In the 25th verse Shri Krishna says, “O perform actions, in the same manner Bhaarat, just as an egocentric Jeevatma ordinary people or people with less or an ignorant man executes his actions knowledge and understanding, follow suit, attached to the fruits of his actions, in the copying and following their actions. Their same manner a Gyani Mahaatma should approval is sought and their example is perform his duties and actions for the widely followed. welfare of society, totally unattached Thus it is very important that wise people towards the fruits of this actions.” should perform their prescribed duties We see that step by step the method and properly and perfectly so that people with path of Karmayoga is clearly described for lesser understanding learn from them, by an ordinary Jeevatma, as against a selfexample. If the wise and noble do not act realized Mahatma who has actually the properly then people in society tend not to greater responsibility☯ carry out their duties but live by their whims. everywhere so the duality of a subject and object is not perceived by him, In the next verse, Shri Krishna commands Arjuna to do Nishkamakarma through which Paramatma can be realized.

This is a direct instruction for perfect Karmayoga.

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Please remember to renew your membership, if you have not already done so. Please also consider upgrading your annual membership to lifetime membership.

Thank you!

SHANTHI

SANDESH

HTCC Quarterly Fiscal Report

For the period October 1, 2009 - December 31, 2009

Prepared by Manjula Narasimhan, Treasurer, Jan 30, 2009 Quarterly Revenues Interest Income Interest income Membership: 2009 Annual Family Members (AFM) 3 @ $50 Lifetime Family Membership Donations: Check Donations Hundi Donations/Prayer Services Facilities Use Donations: Mandir and Educational Center use donations

$175.82

$175.82

$150.00 $1000.00

$1,150.00

$9469.00 578.00

$10,047.00

$110.00

$110.00

Other Revenues Cooperative Utilities Refund

$49.97

$49.97 $11,532.79

Total Quarterly Revenues Quarterly Expenses Lawn and Garden Maintenance and Supplies Printing and Mailing Special Events Sponsorship Upgrade and Repairs Utilities

$287.67 $168.75 $6.08 $168.50 $100.00 $73.47 $995.27

Total Quarterly Expenses

$1,799.74 $9,733.05

Net Income for the Quarter

HTCC Fourth Anniversary Devotional Program 5:00 - 9:00 pm, Saturday, March 13, 2010

Shanthi Mandir This annual event will include a “Havan” led by Shivendra and Asha Shukla, Showcasing of new HTCC Library acquisitions, and Bhajans by invited devotional singers from Chicago (Parikh, Sunitaji and Surinder and families). Pot-luck dinner will follow the puja. Contact: Devotional Program Chandra Rawlani (446-5960), Potluck dinner - Sandhya Sharma (875-4162).

5:15 - 6:00 pm 6:00 - 6:30 pm 6:30 - 8:00 pm 8:00 - 9:00 pm

Havan (Shivendra and Asha Shukla) Showcasing new HTCC Library acquisitions and Prasad (H. R. Chandrasekhar) Bhajans/Devotional Singing (Parikh, Sunitaji, Surinder and family) Pot-Luck Dinner

Thank You! Donor Acknowledgement, November 1, 2009 – January 31, 2010 We gratefully acknowledge the following donations made during the above period. If we have inadvertently made an error in not including your name, please let us know.

We will correct the error at the earliest available opportunity with our apologies. $24Khurana, Inder and Jasmit $25 - $99 Basu, Asit and Sandra Ratneshwar, Rati and Subha $100 - $249 Anand, Satish and Sushma Kannan, Sankarnarayanan and Vasantha Sehgal, Toshi $250 - $299 Mantrala, Murali and Surya

$500 - $549 Aggarwal, Kul and Archana Kutikkad, Das and Geetha Srinivasan, Bharath and Manjula Narasimhan $1,000 - $1,499 Ramachandran, V. and Anuradha Rajagopalan $2,000 - $2,499 Faizer, Rumi and Archana Ramaswamy $5,400+ Loyalka, Sudarshan and Nirja

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Community Calendar (February 15, 2010 - May 31, 2010) Unless otherwise indicated, all events are held at Shanthi Mandir, 2006 Holly Avenue, Columbia, MO 65202. HTCC Organized events have titles in bold typeface. Select non-HTCC-organized events of likely community interest are also included.

Feb 11

Maha Shivaratri Special Sai Bhajan Thursday, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Regular Sai Bhajan program will include bhajans dedicated Mar. 20-21 to Lord Shiva. Contact: Vellore Gopalaratnam (446-0663).

Feb. 13

Maha Shivaratri Puja Saturday, 6:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Puja includes chanting of Sri Rudram, Chamakam followed Mar. 27

by Shiva slokhas, bhajans and distribution of prasad.

Contact: Srinath Gopalakrishna (446-8403)

Mar. 5

HTCC Fourth Anniversary Banquet Peach Tree Banquet Hall, Friday, 6:30 - 10:30 p.m.

This annual event will include a catered feast and live entertainment by accomplished local artistes (see program flier below). Contact: Visala Palaniappan (446-1962)

Mar. 13

Apr. 17

Akhand Ramayan Saturday-Sunday, Time and details to be announced* Contacts: Punam Sethi (445-2854) and Chandra Rawlani (446-5960)

Shri Rama Navami Saturday, Time and details to be announced* Contact: Hema Srinivasan (445-2854)

Baisakhi Saturday, Time and details to be announced* Contact: Chandra Rawlani (446-5960)

May 1

HTCC Fourth Anniversary Devotional Program Saturday, 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.

This annual event will include a “Havan” and Bhajans by May 22 invited devotional singers from Chicago. The Havan will be led by Shivendra Shukla. Pot-luck dinner will follow the puja. Contact: Devotional Program - Chandra Rawlani (446 -5960), Potluck dinner - Sandhya Sharma (875-4162) *

Mar. 14

Cultural Association of India, Contact: Ranadhir Mitra (4492644)

Sargam, Ellis Library Auditorium Sunday, 4:30 –6:30 pm.

Classical Performing Arts event organized by the

Gita Paath Saturday, Time and details to be announced* Contact: Inder Khurana (874-9647)

Buddha Jayanthi Talk Saturday, Time and details to be announced* Contact: Vellore Gopalaratnam (446-0663)

Please visit our web site one week before the event to get additional information on time and program details.

HTCC Fourth Anniversary Banquet Friday, March 5, 2010 Peach Tree Banquet Hall 120 E. Nifong Blvd., Tel.: 875-6608 The Entertainment The Odissi dance segment will be performed by accomplished exponent Aditi Bandyopadhyay along with her students from MU Dance and Recreation Association Anagha Sawant and Jhuma Das. Aditi is a physician from India at present working on a degree in Public Health and teaching Odissi on MU campus. She has performed internationally and had her own dance institution named Nrityaneer in India. Anagha is involved in research in Biology while Jhuma is completing her Phd in Physics at MU. They are among Aditi's first group of students in US. Our talented karaoke performer, Jaskaran Sandhu, will be singing some evergreen Bollywood hit songs from golden era of 60's and 70's. He is a fellow in the Child Psychiatry program at the University Hospital.

The Program 6:30 pm 7:00 pm

7:00 pm 7:30 pm 8:00 pm 8:30 pm 9:45 pm 10:30 pm *

Social Hour Welcome/Invocation Samarpanam Release Silent Auction: Art and Jewelry Mementoes DVDs/CDs Youth Contest Display Youth Arts/Crafts* Dinner (Ruchi of KC) The Year that was...

Silent Auction Ends Entertainment* Open Dance Floor* Adjourn See details alongside

Tickets must be purchased before Friday, Feb. 26. Tickets will not be on sale at the door.

The Bharata Natyam dance by the mother-daughter team of Padmini and Smrita Dorairajan offers another contrasting style of Indian classical dance form. Both are accomplished dancers who have performed internationally. Padmini teaches Bharata Natyam at Kalanjali, a dance studio that she established in Chennai in 1990. She has been recognized with the prestigious title Kalaimamani, a title bestowed on a select few meritorious performing artistes by the Government of Tamil Nadu. Smrita, one of the first disciples of Padmini, is a fellow in the Nephrology program at the University Hospital.

Youth will be kept enthralled by hands-on arts and craft projects led by Amy Messener

Open Dance Floor The music of DJ Raj Suppiah will draw you to the Open Dance Floor following the entertainment program. He started DJ'ing when his friends encouraged him to put his diverse tastes in music to good use. His music collection spans from east to west and as a self-taught DJ, he has performed at charity fundraisers, weddings, university dances and community gatherings all over Toronto.

Ticket Information Adult (10+ yrs): $25, Youth (3-10 yrs): $15, and Child (under 3 yrs): $5 Buy your tickets from many community members including: Anantha, Anuradha, Bharath, Chandra Rawlani, Elango, Gagneesh, Kusum, Latha, Leela, Meera, Nandhu, Priya, Ravi, Visala, and Viswanath

Shanthi Mandir

Non-Profit Org U.S. Postage Paid Permit No. 286 Columbia MO 65201

Hindu Temple and Community Center of Mid窶信issouri (HTCC) 2006 Holly Avenue, Columbia, MO 65202-2043 HTCC is registered as a Nonprofit Corporation in MO HTCC is tax-exempt under IRS Section 501 (c) 3

Current Programs at the Mandir Devotional Programs Open prayer time/Aarti Sai Bhajan Venkateshwara Suprabhatam/Vishnu Sahasranaamam Open prayer time/Aarti Kirtan (Monthly event) Educational/Youth Programs Tamil Classes Hindi Classes Bal Puja Bal Sabha

(February15, 2010)

1st

Tuesday Thursday Saturday Saturday Sunday

6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

9:00 - 10:00 a.m.

6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

1st /3rd 2nd 4th 2nd 4th

Sunday Sunday Sunday Sunday Sunday

3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

1:00 - 2:00 p.m.

2:00 - 3:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday Friday Saturday Sunday

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday Sundays Sundays Saturdays

4:00 - 8:30 p.m.

1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Flexible for now 10:15 - 11:45 a.m.

Service Programs Volunteering at Central Missouri Food Bank 1st Shram Daan 1 (Labor Donation) Shram Daan 2 (Labor Donation) Narayan Seva (Sai Group - St. Francis Home Lunch) 2nd Non-Perishable Food Collection (Ongoing continuously) Fitness and Cultural Art Programs Bharata Natyam classes (instructor fee required) Carnatic vocal music classes (instructor fee required) Tabla classes (instructor fee required) Yoga classes (instructor fee required)

Shanthi Sandesh is a quarterly publication of the Hindu Temple and Community Center of Mid-Missouri (HTCC). It is published on behalf of HTCC by its Publications Committee. Editor: Sandhya Sharma <sandhya.sharma@yahoo.com>

Directions: Take Exit 127 on Interstate 70, Head north on Rangeline Street, Right at first traffic light on Vandiver Drive, Left on Parker Street, Right on Holly Avenue, Shanthi Mandir sign will be visible on the right after 5-6 homes. (Note: Holly Avenue is immediately before the Sunrise Optimist building) Please visit our web site and send us your e-mail address if you would like to be included on the Friends of the Mandir distribution list to receive timely program notices.

http://shanthimandir.missouri.org