November 11th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

यथैकेन न हस्तेन तालिका संप्रपद्यते ।

तथोद्यमपरित्यक्तं कर्म नोत्पादयेत् फलम् ॥

- पञ्चतन्त्र

Transliteration:

yathaikena na hastena tālikā saṃprapadyate ।

tathodyamaparityaktaṃ karma notpādayet phalam ॥

- pañcatantra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Just as a clap cannot be generated with one hand, any destiny devoid of effort will not yield fruit.  

Commentary:

It takes two to tango! 

Effort and destiny—these are the partners in crime behind every result. Without them, no action bears fruit. This age-old debate between fate and free will persists, even in Vedāntic contexts. Do our outcomes lie in the hands of destiny, or is it our own free will that shapes them? Which holds the greater sway?

A simple story sheds light:

An astrologer once told a man, "You will win the lottery soon." With great anticipation, the man checked the lottery results every day for a year. Frustrated, he told a friend, "The astrologer was wrong—I never won!" His friend asked, "But did you buy a ticket?" The man replied, "Ticket? What ticket?! I never bought one!"

The moral is clear: just as sound cannot emerge from one clapping hand, destiny alone will not bring results without our effort. One can’t expect to win a lottery without buying a ticket.

Fate—destiny—is a given. Free will is how we act. A person may toil endlessly, but if it is not in his destiny, success will remain elusive. Conversely, no matter how bright a person’s fate may seem, he will not reach his potential without effort.

Actions plant the seeds of destiny while efforts cultivate them. Fate favors the fearless, and fearless take action.

If we cannot change our fate, we must change our attitude. Even if destiny is on our side, it will not unfold unless we choose to pursue it. So, life is a dance between fate and free will—rain is inevitable; whether we get wet in it or not is our choice. 

So long as I am the doer—kartā—I wield free will. So long as I am the enjoyer—bhoktā—I surrender to fate.  Without free will, there is no fate and without fate, there is no free will.  

In conclusion, fate and free will are intricately intertwined, working in harmony to shape the outcomes of our actions.    But, in the highest wisdom of Vedānta, one must transcend both. To release the attachment to both fate and free will one must surrender to the divine, dropping the ego! 

pada vigrahaH:

यथा एकेन न हस्तेन तालिका संप्रपद्यते ।

yathā ekena na hastena tālikā saṃprapadyate ।

तथा उद्यम-परित्यक्तं कर्म न उत्पादयेत् फलम् ॥

tathā udyama-parityaktaṃ karma na utpādayet phalam  ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

yathaikena na hastena tAlikA saMprapadyate । 

tathodyamaparityaktaM karma notpAdayet phalam ॥

- pa~nchatantra

yathaa ekena na hastena tAlikA saMprapadyate । 

tathaa udyama-parityaktaM karma na utpAdayet phalam ॥

August 15th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
स्वभावो नोपदेशेन शक्यते कर्तुमन्यथा ।
सुतप्तमपि पानीयं पुनर्गच्छति शीतताम् ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, मित्रभेद

Transliteration:
svabhāvo nopadeśena śakyate kartumanyathā ।
sutaptamapi pānīyaṃ punargacchati śītatām ॥
- pañcatantra, mitrabheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

It is not possible to change the intrinsic nature (of anyone) through advice. Even after being boiled intensely, water goes back (to being) cold.

Commentary:

One may boil water for hours, bringing it to a rolling boil. Yet, all that heat cannot alter water’s inherent nature—to be cool to the touch. Water is naturally colder than its surroundings and doesn’t need effort to be so. No amount of boiling can change its fundamental properties. How much ever it is heated, it will only cool down after a while. That is simply how it’s designed. 

Similarly, in life, we encounter people whose ways of doing things may differ from our expectations. The urge to shake them up or guide them toward what seems a "better" approach can be overwhelming. However, what feels natural to them might be incomprehensible to someone outside their circumstances. Attempting to educate or lecture them often proves futile if their intrinsic nature operates on an entirely different wavelength.

Just as water cannot be taught to remain hot, or fire to become cold, a person’s enduring nature cannot be fundamentally altered through advice or counseling—whether well-intentioned or not. You can’t teach a fish to fly like a bird. Each person is the “best version of themselves,” shaped by their unique traits and experiences.

Recognize when your efforts 'to change or influence someone' may be beyond their capacity to heed. Knowing when to let go spares you disappointment and frustration. Accept people for who they are, and move on with grace.

pada vigrahaH:
स्वभावः न उपदेशेन शक्यते कर्तुम् अन्यथा ।
svabhāvaḥ na upadeśena śakyate kartum anyathā ।

सुतप्तम् अपि पानीयं पुनः गच्छति शीतताम् ॥

sutaptam api pānīyaṃ punaḥ gacchati śītatām ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
svabhaavo nopadeshena shakyate kartumanyathaa।
sutaptamapi paanIyaM punargachChati shItataam॥
- pa~nchatantra, mitrabheda

svabhaavaH na upadeshena shakyate kartum anyathaa ।
sutaptam api paanIyaM punaH gachChati shItataam॥

September 16th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
वृक्षान् छित्वा पशून्हत्वा कृत्वा रुधिरकर्दमम् ।
यद्येवं गम्यते स्वर्गं नरकः केन गम्यते ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, काकोलूकीय

Transliteration:
vṛkṣān chitvā paśūnhatvā kṛtvā rudhirakardamam ।
yadyevaṃ gamyate svargaṃ narakaḥ kena gamyate ॥
- pañcatantra, kākolūkīya

Meaning of the subhAShita:

After tearing down trees, massacring animals, (and) creating a bloody mire, if this is how heaven is attained,  (then) hell is attained by whom?! 

Commentary:

There is a story of a little boy who came to a tree.  The tree gave him leaves to play with.  He would then climb the trunk and swing from the branches.  When the boy grew up, the tree provided him with fruit and wood to build his home.  When the man wanted more, the tree gave more, until only a stump was left.  Even then, when the weary man came by, the stump propped itself up and gave him a place to sit on!  Such is the magnanimity of the tree.  

Instead of returning favors, man loots like there is no tomorrow and until nothing is left!  What to say about the massacre of animals?    Does man realize what a bloody quagmire he is creating and letting flow?  Does he understand that he is hurting himself in the long haul? Does he even comprehend that there are repercussions for his actions?

No one wants to go to hell.  All beings aim to reach heaven.  With these aspirations, if man's actions are so merciless, one can only imagine the brutality if the aim was to reach hell instead!!  The poet sarcastically says, if these beings want to reach the garden of Eden, who else shall make it to Hades?!!

Heaven and hell can be created here and now!  We can either make the earth a green heaven or one bloody hell!  It is all in our own hands.

pada vigrahaH:
वृक्षान् छित्वा पशून् हत्वा कृत्वा रुधिर-कर्दमम् ।
vṛkṣān chitvā paśūn hatvā kṛtvā rudhira-kardamam ।

यदि एवं गम्यते स्वर्गं नरकः केन गम्यते ॥
yadi evaṃ gamyate svargaṃ narakaḥ kena gamyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
vRukShaan Chitvaa pashUnhatvaa kRutvaa rudhirakardamam ।
yadyevaM gamyate swargam narakaH kena gamyate ॥
- pa~nchatantra, kaakolUkIya

vRukShaan Chitvaa pashUn hatvaa kRutvaa rudhira-kardamam ।

yadi evaM gamyate swargam narakaH kena gamyate ॥

May 20th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
मित्रद्रोही कृतघ्नश्च यश्च विश्वासघातकः ।
ते नरा नरकं यान्ति यावच्चन्द्रदिवाकरौ ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, मित्रभेद

Transliteration:
mitradrohī kṛtaghnaśca yaśca viśvāsaghātakaḥ ।
te narā narakaṃ yānti yāvaccandradivākarau ॥
- pañcatantra, mitrabheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

He who is treacherous to a friend; he who is ungrateful for rendered benefactions; he who is a traitor (slays trust—these people attain hell for as long as the sun and moon shall exist. 

Commentary:

A friend is meant to pull one out of tough times, not push them into them. When someone confides in a friend, they lower their defenses and reveal their most vulnerable self. Betraying that trust is not just a moral failure; it is a direct violation of dharma. Backstabbing a friend who has placed faith in you is indefensible and unjustifiable.

In times of need, we pray for help, but it is unethical to forget that help and later prey on those who offered it. When someone extends a helping hand in a moment of crisis, the debt of gratitude is immeasurable and lifelong. No act can fully repay the kindness of timely aid. Forgetting such help and showing ingratitude should not even be considered an option. When an action is inherently wrong, how can it align with dharma?

Trust is the delicate thread that holds the world together. Without it, life would grind to a halt. If trust didn’t exist, we wouldn't rely on the farmer’s grain, the gardener’s fruit, or even our own abilities and the support of nature. Trust is the foundation of coexistence, and breaking it is no trivial matter. As someone wisely said, "I am not upset that you lied to me, but because I can no longer believe you." Breaking trust doesn’t just damage the current relationship; it casts a shadow over all future interactions with that person. The act of shattering trust—this essential thread of life—can never be in alignment with dharma.

Actions that contradict dharma are always punishable. Whether one likes it or not, they must face the consequences of their deeds. The poet warns that those who betray trust and commit adharma are destined for hell so long as the Sun and Moon exist and this law holds good so long as the Sun and Moon shine in the sky.  Hell is not necessarily a physical place, but any state where one is deprived of happiness and peace. Betrayal of trust creates a living hell for the perpetrator, where guilt and broken bonds haunt them.

“To be trusted is a greater compliment than to be loved.” Be trustworthy, for trust is the essence of a meaningful and harmonious life.

pada vigrahaH:
मित्र-द्रोही कृतघ्नः च यः च विश्वास-घातकः ।
mitra-drohī kṛtaghnaḥ ca yaḥ ca viśvāsa-ghātakaḥ ।

ते नराः नरकं यान्ति यावत् चन्द्र-दिवाकरौ ॥
te narāḥ narakaṃ yānti yāvat candra-divākarau ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
mitradrohI kRutaghnashcha yashcha vishvaasaghaatakaH ।
te naraa narakaM yaanti yaavachchandradivaakarau ॥
- pa~nchatantra, mitrabheda

mitra-drohI kRutaghnaH cha yaH cha vishvaasa-ghaatakaH ।

te naraaH narakaM yaanti yaavat chandra-divaakarau ॥

May 13th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यत्रोऽत्साहसमारम्भः यत्रालस्यविहीनता ।
नयविक्रमसंयोगः तत्र श्रीरचला ध्रुवम् ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, मित्रसम्प्राप्‍ति

Transliteration:
yatro'tsāhasamārambhaḥ yatrālasyavihīnatā ।
nayavikramasaṃyogaḥ tatra śrīracalā dhruvam ॥
- pañcatantra, mitrasamprāp‍ti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Where there is zeal in the effort, where there is an absence of indolence, there, in the conjugation of humility and courage, wealth is certain to be steady.

Commentary:

Zeal is the secret ingredient that transforms any task into a smoother, more enjoyable endeavor. When one undertakes a task with enthusiasm and passion, it inspires and energizes those around them, creating a ripple effect of eagerness and determination to reach the goal—faster and better. However, maintaining zeal in the face of obstacles and setbacks requires immense courage and resilience.

It is often said that zeal suits the wise, yet it is most frequently found in fools. Why is that? Because without proper direction, even the most energetic efforts can become futile. Zeal without wisdom is like a ship without a compass—full of potential but headed nowhere. When energy is directed with purpose and clarity, there is no room for indolence. And indolence, no matter how sophisticated the term may sound, is nothing more than laziness in disguise—an attribute that serves no one.

True zeal must be coupled with wisdom, which brings humility—a vital trait of the truly courageous. When humility and courage unite, they pave the way for boundless prosperity. Prosperity, in turn, fosters abundance, and abundance leads to wealth—not just in material terms but in character and fulfillment as well.

So, for those aspiring for success and wealth, the formula is simple yet profound: nurture zeal, channel it with wisdom, embrace humility, and walk the path with courage. With these attributes, there are no limits to what one can achieve!

pada vigrahaH:
यत्र उत्साह-समारम्भः यत्र आलस्य-विहीनता ।
yatra utsāha-samārambhaḥ yatra ālasya-vihīnatā ।

नय-विक्रम-संयोगः तत्र श्रीः अचला ध्रुवम् ॥
naya-vikrama-saṃyogaḥ tatra śrīḥ acalā dhruvam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yatro.tsaahasamaarambhaH yatraalasyavihInataa ।
nayavikramasaMyogaH tatra shrIrachalaa dhruvam ॥
- pa~nchatantra, mitrasampraapti

yatra utsaaha-samaarambhaH yatra aalasya-vihInataa ।

naya-vikrama-samyogaH tatra shrIH achalaa dhruvam ॥

February 11th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यद्वाञ्छति दिवा मर्त्यः वीक्षते वा करोति वा ।
तत्स्वप्नेऽपि तदभ्यासात् ब्रूते वाथ करोति वा ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, मित्रभेद

Transliteration:
yadvāñchati divā martyaḥ vīkṣate vā karoti vā ।
tatsvapne'pi tadabhyāsāt brūte vātha karoti vā ॥
- pañcatantra, mitrabheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

That which is desired, viewed, or done by a mortal during the day, (he) speaks or does the same, due to practice even in dreams.

Commentary:

Habituation is what it is!

The thoughts and actions we entertain regularly are seeds that inevitably take root in our subconscious minds, growing stronger with time. Psychiatrists often point out that dreams are reflections of our strongest desires or deepest fears.

When we sleep, the dominant impressions from our waking hours tend to resurface. Dreams are like unscripted movies—random snippets of memories and emotions stitched together without the supervision of an editor. Sometimes, they may appear chaotic and meaningless; at other times, they bring startling clarity. Many inventors and thinkers have woken up with solutions to problems that eluded them during their waking hours. Why? Because their minds were persistently engaged with those thoughts, allowing their subconscious to connect the dots in unexpected ways.

The mind does not discriminate between positive or negative thoughts. It simply shapes and amplifies whatever dominates our focus. Dreams, then, become the creative canvas where these latent thoughts take form.

As the saying goes, "Dreams are like stars... one may never touch them, but if followed, they will lead to unseen heights." A great man said, "Dream is not what you see in sleep but is the thing which doesn't let you sleep!" Big dreams require big thoughts, actions, and visions during our waking hours. 

Fill your days with purpose, positivity, and relentless pursuit of your goals, and you’ll soon find yourself turning dreams into reality. Dream it, live it, achieve it!

pada vigrahaH:
यत् वाञ्छति दिवा मर्त्यः वीक्षते वा करोति वा ।
yat vāñchati divā martyaḥ vīkṣate vā karoti vā ।

तत् स्वप्ने अपि तत् अभ्यासात् ब्रूते वा अथ करोति वा ॥
tat svapne api tat abhyāsāt brūte vā atha karoti vā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yadvaa~nChati divaa martyaH vIkShate vaa karoti vaa ।
tatsvapne.pi tadabhyaasaat brUte vaatha karoti vaa ॥
- pa~nchatantra, mitrabheda

yat vaa~nChati divaa martyaH vIkShate vaa karoti vaa ।

tat svapne api tat abhyaasaat brUte vaa atha karoti vaa ॥

October 29th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
नष्टं मृतमतिक्रान्तं नानुशोचन्ति पण्डिताः ।
पण्डितानाञ्च मूर्खाणां विशेषोऽयं यतः स्मृतः ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, मित्रभेद

Transliteration:
naṣṭaṃ mṛtamatikrāntaṃ nānuśocanti paṇḍitāḥ ।
paṇḍitānāñca mūrkhāṇāṃ viśeṣo'yaṃ yataḥ smṛtaḥ ॥
- pañcatantra, mitrabheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

(For) that which is lost, dead, or has passed—the intelligent do not bemoan.  It is deemed that is the difference between the intelligent and the foolish.

Commentary:

That which is lost cannot be brought back.  The dead cannot be revived nor can the past be changed!  That which is inevitable cannot be altered anyway. 

The only thing under one's control is his attitude.  Only the foolish invest their time in worrying about the past.  The poet says the intelligent do not bemoan and bewail such things.  That is what sets him apart from the rest.  The intelligent clearly understand that the past has passed and will stay there.  They do everything they can to make a difference in the present and take only the lessons from yesterday.   They take further steps with this resolve in their mind.  It takes a lot of strength, courage, and grace to move on into the future, despite one's past!

No man is rich enough to buy back the past!  No amount of fretting will put a dent in what is already history!  Don't make the future an experiment, and the past a regret.  Hence, keep the lessons from the past, live in the present, and shape a bright future!

pada vigrahaH:
नष्टं मृतम् अतिक्रान्तं न अनुशोचन्ति पण्डिताः ।
naṣṭaṃ mṛtam atikrāntaṃ na anuśocanti paṇḍitāḥ ।

पण्डितानां च मूर्खाणां विशेषः अयं यतः स्मृतः ॥
paṇḍitānāṃ ca mūrkhāṇāṃ viśeṣaḥ ayaṃ yataḥ smṛtaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
naShTaM mRutamatikraantaM naanushochanti paNDitaaH ।
paNDitaanaa~ncha mUrkhaaNaaM visheSho.yaM yataH smRutaH ॥
- pa~nchatantra, mitrabheda

naShTaM mRutam atikraantaM na anushochanti paNDitaaH ।

paNDitaanaaM cha mUrkhaaNaaM visheShaH ayaM yataH smRutaH ॥

September 7th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
षट्कर्णो भिद्यते मन्त्रः चतुष्कर्णः स्थिरो भवेत् ।
द्विकर्णस्य च मन्त्रस्य ब्रह्माप्यन्तन्न गच्छति ॥

- पञ्चतन्त्र

Transliteration:
ṣaṭkarṇo bhidyate mantraḥ catuṣkarṇaḥ sthiro bhavet ।
dvikarṇasya ca mantrasya brahmāpyantanna gacchati ॥

- pañcatantra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

That which is (heard) by six ears gets shattered; that which is (heard) by four ears gets affirmed. That which stays between the two ears, even Lord Brahma cannot get to the end of it!

Commentary:

Spells, thoughts, or secrets—once heard by six or more ears (the speaker and at least two others)—are bound to break. Despite humans having two ears and only one mouth, the tendency is often to talk more than listen. News and rumors spread faster than the wind, morphing as they pass from one person to another. Through additions, omissions, or exaggerations, a small incident can quickly become the talk of the town, often distorted far from the original truth.

What is heard by four ears (the speaker and one other person) tends to hold its strength. For example, when a guru imparts a mantra to a disciple, it is done as a whispered secret, enhancing its potency. On a practical level, sharing a thought with a parent, spouse, friend, or trusted advisor provides reassurance or a second opinion. Such individuals serve as sounding boards, helping one affirm or reconsider a course of action. This kind of validation is something we all need at times.

However, the fate of thoughts that remain between two ears (kept solely in one’s own mind) is beyond even Lord Brahma’s prediction! The mind is a labyrinth of complexities, capable of wandering in countless directions. The final outcome of an unspoken thought depends entirely on the individual’s mindset and state of mind at any given moment. The poet humorously suggests that even the Creator cannot foresee where such thoughts might lead.

In conclusion:

• If the intention is to publicize something, speak to at least two people—but remember, the version that spreads may not be your original one. And beware: he who gossips with you may also gossip about you.
• If you seek advice or reassurance, confide in someone you trust—a close friend, family member, or an expert in the field. However, keep in mind that affirmation without discipline is the beginning of delusion!
• If ultimate secrecy is your aim, say nothing at all. Even Lord Brahma won’t uncover what stays within.

The choice is yours!

pada vigrahaH:
षट्-कर्णः भिद्यते मन्त्रः चतुष्कर्णः स्थिरः भवेत् ।
ṣaṭ-karṇaḥ bhidyate mantraḥ catuṣkarṇaḥ sthiraḥ bhavet ।

द्वि-कर्णस्य च मन्त्रस्य ब्रह्मा अपि अन्तं न गच्छति ॥
dvi-karṇasya ca mantrasya brahmā api antaṃ na gacchati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ShaTkarNo bhidyate mantraH chatuShkarNaH sthiro bhavet ।
dvikarNasya cha mantrasya brahmaapyantanna gachChati ॥
- pa~nchatantra 

ShaT-karNaH bhidyate mantraH chatuShkarNaH sthiraH bhavet ।

dvi-karNasya cha mantrasya brahmaa api antaM na gachChati ॥

July 21st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
किं तया क्रियते धेन्वा या न सूते न दुग्धदा ।
कोऽर्थः पुत्रेण जातेन यो न विद्वान्न भक्तिमान् ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, कथामुख


Transliteration:
kiṃ tayā kriyate dhenvā yā na sūte na dugdhadā ।
ko'rthaḥ putreṇa jātena yo na vidvānna bhaktimān ॥
- pañcatantra, kathāmukha

Meaning of the subhAShita:

What shall you do with a cow that neither milks nor bears a calf? What is the use of an offspring who is neither learned nor devoted?!

Commentary:

There is a purpose for everything! A cowherd rears his cattle so that he can milk them or so they can bear calves someday. What is the use of a cow which is neither able to give milk nor bear a calf? All the tending becomes a wasteful effort.

Similarly, there is a certain set of expectations for offspring as well. Every parent wants their children to be learned and cultured. Knowledge makes one humble. The humility thus learnt, carries him through the rough sails of life. 

Arrogance is not an appealing trait. One needs to acknowledge and respect that there is a higher power that works as a driving force in this world. This is shown through devotion. 

Hence, a parent wants his offspring to be learned and devoted. What is the use of a son/daughter who is neither learned nor devoted? Just as a cow that can neither milk nor bear a calf, tending such a child is a futility of effort!

It is easier to build strong children than repair broken adults. Guide them earlier on, so they don't become useless animals!

pada vigrahaH:
किं तया क्रियते धेन्वा या न सूते न दुग्धदा ।
kiṃ tayā kriyate dhenvā yā na sūte na dugdhadā ।

कः अर्थः पुत्रेण जातेन यः न विद्वान् न भक्तिमान् ॥
kaḥ arthaḥ putreṇa jātena yaḥ na vidvān na bhaktimān ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kiM tayaa kriyate dhenvaa yaa na sUte na dugdhadaa ।
ko.rthaH putreNa jaatena yo na vidvaanna bhaktimaan ॥
- pa~nchatantra, kathaamukha

kiM tayaa kriyate dhenvaa yaa na sUte na dugdhadaa ।

kaH arthaH putreNa jaatena yaH na vidvaan na bhaktimaan ॥

July 13th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सकृत्कन्दुकपातेन पतत्यार्यः पतन्नपि ।
तथा पतति मूर्खस्तु मृत्‍पिण्डपतनं यथा ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र

Transliteration:
sakṛtkandukapātena patatyāryaḥ patannapi ।
tathā patati mūrkhastu mṛt‍piṇḍapatanaṃ yathā ॥
- pañcatantra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Oh, gentleman! The meritorious, even when they fall do not (seem) fallen, like a ball. Whereas, a foolish person falls just like a lump of clay.

Commentary:

No journey is always trending upward! There are always ups and downs in any path—with many pitfalls and positive moments.

As for the falls—the difference between the meritorious and the foolish is just as evident as the drop of a ball vs. a lump of clay. The meritorious bounce back instantaneously, as if they never fell, just like a bouncing ball and they reach higher heights! However, the foolish will fall and collapse to the ground like a lump of clay! There is no bounce in a lump of clay, it is heavy and shatters on the very first contact with the ground.  On the other hand, a ball stays in perfect shape. In fact, it translates the energy from the fall to bounce higher! The exemplary are just the same. No fall will perturb them from their task, but instead, it gives them more perseverance to achieve their task faster and better!

Take every experience as a learning opportunity and work harder again.  Be determined! Do not let the roadblocks perturb your resolve. 

pada vigrahaH:
सकृत् कन्दुक-पातेन पतति आर्यः पतन् न अपि ।
sakṛt kanduka-pātena patati āryaḥ patan na api ।

तथा पतति मूर्खः तु मृत्‍पिण्ड-पतनं यथा ॥
tathā patati mūrkhaḥ tu mṛt‍piṇḍa-patanaṃ yathā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sakRutkandukapaatena patatyaaryaH patannapi ।
tathaa patati mUrkhastu mRutpiNDapatanaM yathaa ॥
- pa~nchatantra

sakRut kanduka-paatena patati aaryaH patan na api ।

tathaa patati mUrkhaH tu mRutpiNDa-patanaM yathaa ॥

June 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
औषधार्थसुमन्त्राणां बुद्धिश्चैव महात्मनाम् ।
असाध्यं नास्ति लोकेऽत्र यद्ब्रह्माण्डस्य मध्यगम् ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र


Transliteration:
auṣadhārthasumantrāṇāṃ buddhiścaiva mahātmanām ।
asādhyaṃ nāsti loke'tra yadbrahmāṇḍasya madhyagam ॥
- pañcatantra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Nothing impossible exists in this world for these—medicine, wealth, good counsel, and intellect of the noble.

Commentary:

If there is a problem, there is a solution! 

Between—medicine, wealth, good counsel, and the intellect of the noble—every issue in this world can be addressed AND resolved!!

What are the kinds of problems one might face?

• Sickness: there is medicine for that.
• Food, water, shelter, and comforts: wealth can address that.
• Stress and mental burdens: good counsel puts them to rest.
• Day-to-day issues or long-term problems: the intellect of the noble/wise can tackle them.

Do not lose heart at the advent of troubles.  Sometimes, it might just need a new perspective. Keep the faith and use the right tool to beat it. At times, when the issues are not so black and white, it takes prudence to decide which course of action must be taken. 

Be prudent.  Keep the faith.

pada vigrahaH:
औषध-अर्थ-सुमन्त्राणां बुद्धिः च एव महात्मनाम् ।
auṣadha-artha-sumantrāṇāṃ buddhiḥ ca eva mahātmanām ।

असाध्यं न अस्ति लोके अत्र यत् ब्रह्माण्डस्य मध्यगम् ॥
asādhyaṃ na asti loke atra yat brahmāṇḍasya madhyagam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
auShadhaarthasumantraaNaaM buddhishchaiva mahaatmanaam ।
asaadhyaM naasti loke.tra yadbrahmaaNDasya madhyagam ॥
- pa~nchatantra

auShadha-artha-sumantraaNaaM buddheH cha eva mahaatmanaam ।

asaadhyaM na asti loke atra yat brahmaaNDasya madhyagam ॥

June 6th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पश्य क्रमवशात् प्राप्‍तं भोज्यकालेऽपि भोजनम् ।
हस्तोद्यमं विना वक्त्रे प्रविशेन्न कथञ्चन ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र


Transliteration:
paśya kramavaśāt prāp‍taṃ bhojyakāle'pi bhojanam ।
hastodyamaṃ vinā vaktre praviśenna kathañcana ॥
- pañcatantra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Behold that everything is achieved gradually (through one's own efforts). Even at mealtime, without the effort of the hand in putting the food into the mouth, food will not be available.

Commentary:

Without putting in an effort, there will be no result. 

Even in an action as simple as eating one's own food, the effort of his hand is essential for the food on the plate to reach his mouth. Nothing comes for free. The only place 'success' comes before 'work' is, the dictionary (because 's' comes before 'w')! 

One must work hard to achieve anything in life. Only then will he understand the value of the results. Anything that is not taxing, is easily taken for granted and squandered. When one understands the pain behind the gain, his attitude and approach towards life alters altogether.

Knowing is not enough, one must apply the knowledge. Willingness is not enough, one must strive towards achieving the goal!

pada vigrahaH:
पश्य क्रम-वशात् प्राप्‍तं भोज्य-काले अपि भोजनम् ।
paśya krama-vaśāt prāp‍taṃ bhojya-kāle api bhojanam ।

हस्त-उद्यमं विना वक्त्रे प्रविशेत् न कथञ्चन ॥
hasta-udyamaṃ vinā vaktre praviśet na kathañcana ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
pashya kramavashaat praaptaM bhojyakaale.pi bhojanam ।
hastodyamaM vinaa vaktre pravishenna katha~nchana ॥
- pa~nchatantra

pashya krama-vashaat praaptaM bhojya-kaale api bhojanam ।

hasta-udyamaM vinaa vaktre pravishet na katha~nchana ॥

June 2nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अर्थानामर्जने दुःखम् अर्जितानां च रक्षणे ।
आये दुःखं व्यये दुःखं धिगर्थाः कष्टसंश्रयाः ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, मित्रभेद


Transliteration:
arthānāmarjane duḥkham arjitānāṃ ca rakṣaṇe ।
āye duḥkhaṃ vyaye duḥkhaṃ dhigarthāḥ kaṣṭasaṃśrayāḥ ॥
- pañcatantra, mitrabheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Sorrow is involved in earning wealth, and so too, in protecting what is earned. Pain in gain, pain in loss—Alas! Wealth is always a resort for grief.

Commentary:

One takes tremendous pains to accumulate wealth. Lost in his quest for wealth, he sacrifices many dreams and joyous moments of his life. After undergoing all the hardships to accumulate the stash, then comes the burden and stress of protecting it. One goes to painstaking extents to make sure that his wealth is safe and secure! Even so, it is seen time and again that the person does not even enjoy his possessions. He gets so engrossed in the aspect of earning and protecting, that he even forgets the purpose of all the hardships, which is—enjoying himself and making life nicer for those around him. Hence, wealth brings pain both when gained and lost. Alas, it is a source of great grief under any circumstance!

In reality, one does not possess wealth, wealth possesses him! He is the richest person who is content with the least, for, contentment is the wealth of the noble!

pada vigrahaH:

अर्थानाम् अर्जने दुःखम् अर्जितानां च रक्षणे ।
arthānām arjane duḥkham arjitānāṃ ca rakṣaṇe ।

आये दुःखं व्यये दुःखं धिक् अर्थाः कष्ट-संश्रयाः ॥
āye duḥkhaṃ vyaye duḥkhaṃ dhik arthāḥ kaṣṭa-saṃśrayāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
arthaanaamarjane duHkham arjitaanaaM cha rakShaNe ।
aaye duHkhaM vyaye duHkhaM dhigarthaaH kaShTasaMshrayaaH ॥
- pa~nchatantra, mitrabheda

arthaanaam arjane duHkham arjitaanaaM cha rakShaNe ।

aaye duHkhaM vyaye duHkhaM dhik arthaaH kaShTa samshrayaaH ॥

April 11th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
उपकारिषु यः साधुः साधुत्वे तस्य को गुणः ।
अपकारिषु यः साधुः स साधुः सद्भिरुच्यते ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र

Transliteration:
upakāriṣu yaḥ sādhuḥ sādhutve tasya ko guṇaḥ ।
apakāriṣu yaḥ sādhuḥ sa sādhuḥ sadbhirucyate ॥
- pañcatantra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

What is the efficacy of showing virtue toward one's benefactor? Noble people say that 'he who can be virtuous to his wrongdoers too, is great!'

Commentary:

Being kind and courteous to one's benefactor is the easiest kind of deed. Since he did good to me, I will do good to him too! What is the greatness in that? The virtuous deeds done by both cancel each other out. 

However, great is he who can overlook the misgivings of another and yet, be nice and helpful to his wrongdoers. That takes a lot more of one's greatness and generosity. He needs to forget and forgive the wrong that was done to him. At the same time, he needs to take a further step by helping the person who wronged him. 

When one can see past the misdeeds of another, he belongs to a league of a different order instantaneously! The logic of 'a thorn is removed by a thorn' does not work in this case. His broadness of mind and greatness of virtue will have the ability to change the wrongdoer internally. Then, the thorn gets removed automatically, without a requirement to use another thorn.

Forget and forgive. Look past the follies of others.  Do not regret being nice to wrongdoers.  Afterall, everyone can only offer what's in their hearts! 

pada vigrahaH:
उपकारिषु यः साधुः साधुत्वे तस्य कः गुणः ।
upakāriṣu yaḥ sādhuḥ sādhutve tasya kaḥ guṇaḥ ।

अपकारिषु यः साधुः सः साधुः सद्भिः उच्यते ॥
apakāriṣu yaḥ sādhuḥ saḥ sādhuḥ sadbhiḥ ucyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
upakaariShu yaH saadhuH saadhutve tasya ko guNaH ।
apakaariShu yaH saadhuH sa saadhuH sadbhiruchyate ॥
- pa~nchatantra

upakaariShu yaH saadhuH saadhutve tasya kaH guNaH ।

apakaariShu yaH saadhuH saH saadhuH sadbhiH uchyate ॥

February 21st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
न स्वल्पस्य कृते भूरि नाशयेन्मतिमान् नरः ।
एतदेवात्रपाण्डित्यं यत्स्वल्पाद्‍भूरिरक्षणम् ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, मित्रभेद


Transliteration:
na svalpasya kṛte bhūri nāśayenmatimān naraḥ ।
etadevātrapāṇḍityaṃ yatsvalpād‍bhūrirakṣaṇam ॥
- pañcatantra, mitrabheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A prudent man won't trade a big gain for the sake of a small one. It is prudence here, to give up the smaller for the protection of the bigger interest.

Commentary:

Don't be penny wise and pound foolish!

Many times, when we focus on minute details the bigger picture gets lost. That is not prudent, says the verse. In achieving the higher good, even if a couple of smaller interests have to be sacrificed, it is quite alright.

This reminds the saying, 'Lose the battle but win the war'.  While accomplishing trivial agendas, make sure to not forget the main goal/purpose of the entire task. This is what wise people do.

Great achievements are born of great sacrifices.  Who knows?!  Today's sacrifice may be the greatest investment for tomorrow! 

pada vigrahaH:

न स्वल्पस्य कृते भूरि नाशयेत् मतिमान् नरः ।
na svalpasya kṛte bhūri nāśayet matimān naraḥ ।

एतत् एव अत्र पाण्डित्यं यत् स्वल्पात् भूरि रक्षणम् ॥
etat eva atra pāṇḍityaṃ yat svalpāt bhūri rakṣaṇam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
na swalpasya kRute bhUri naashayenmatimaan naraH ।
etadevaatrapaaNDityaM yatsvalpaadbhUrirakShaNam ॥
- pa~nchatantra, mitrabheda

na swalpasya kRute bhUri naashayet matimaan naraH ।

etat eva atra paaNDityaM yat svalpaat bhUri rakShaNam ॥

February 11th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
न यत्रास्ति गतिर्वायोः रश्मीनां च विवस्वतः ।
तत्रापि प्रविशत्याशु बुद्धिर्बुद्धिमतां सदा ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, अपरीक्षितकारक


Transliteration:
na yatrāsti gatirvāyoḥ raśmīnāṃ ca vivasvataḥ ।
tatrāpi praviśatyāśu buddhirbuddhimatāṃ sadā ॥
- pañcatantra, aparīkṣitakāraka

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The intellect of the intelligent always enters quickly even (in places) where there is no movement of air nor where sun's rays can reach. 

Commentary:

There can be deep valleys or creeks where the sun's rays never reach. There can be space in which wind can never blow. But there is no place beyond the reach of an intelligent being.

Physically speaking, man has explored the deepest caves which have never seen sunlight. He has conquered the vacuum of outer space and is still trying to reach farther.  However, there are various parts of the universe unknown to him.  He is restricted by physical limitations. Nonetheless, man's intellect is a very powerful instrument.  It has no bounds and if put to use correctly, there is no stopping it!  It is free from all restrictions.

Can we ever be grateful enough for the wonderful gift of intellect that the Lord has blessed us with?!  Nothing is more attractive in this world than intelligence! 

pada vigrahaH: 

न यत्र अस्ति गतिः वायोः रश्मीनां च विवस्वतः ।
na yatra asti gatiḥ vāyoḥ raśmīnāṃ ca vivasvataḥ ।

तत्र अपि प्रविशति आशु बुद्धिः बुद्धिमतां सदा ॥
tatra api praviśati āśu buddhiḥ buddhimatāṃ sadā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
na yatraasti gatirvaayoH rashmInaaM cha vivaswataH ।
tatraapi pravishatyaashu buddhirbuddhimataaM sadaa ॥
- pa~nchatantra, aparIkShitakaaraka

na yatra asti gatiH vaayoH rashmInaaM cha vivaswataH ।

tatra api pravishati aashu buddhiH buddhimataaM sadaa ॥

February 9th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सर्पाणां च खलानां च परद्रव्यापहारिणाम् ।
अभिप्राया न सिध्यन्ति तेनेदं वर्तते जगत् ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, मित्रभेद


Transliteration:
sarpāṇāṃ ca khalānāṃ ca paradravyāpahāriṇām ।
abhiprāyā na sidhyanti tenedaṃ vartate jagat ॥
- pañcatantra, mitrabheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Snakes and evil-doers (aim for) others' possessions. Their actions will never succeed.  Hence the world is still surviving.

Commentary:

An entire colony of ants works extremely hard to build an ant hill. They collect enough food to nourish the whole colony. Come one day, a sneaky snake will destroy all the ants and annex their home!

Evildoers are no different. They are interested in capturing the possessions of others. They use all their talent and wisdom in plotting devious plans to possess the object of their interest.

Evil intentions never bring benefit, though. Sooner or later, their sins will catch up with them and they will have to pay for their wrongdoings. The repercussions may not be apparent immediately but are certainly lurking, waiting for the right time to teach them right from wrong. Sometimes, it may not even happen in the same birth. But the accounts of sins and virtues won't fade. No deed will be missed and all consequences will be handed out. 

Perhaps, this is the reason why the world keeps going. Despite all the misdeeds of people, the world and its societies survive. Evil can never surpass virtue. It can't.  It's not in its nature! 

Keep the faith and do not fear the evildoers. Do good unto others and others will do the same unto you.

pada vigrahaH:

सर्पाणां च खलानां च पर द्रव्य अपहारिणाम् ।
sarpāṇāṃ ca khalānāṃ ca para dravya apahāriṇām ।

अभिप्रायाः न सिध्यन्ति तेन इदं वर्तते जगत् ॥
abhiprāyāḥ na sidhyanti tena idaṃ vartate jagat ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sarpaaNaaM cha khalaanaaM cha paradravyaapahaariNaam ।
abhipraayaa na sidhyanti tenedaM vartate jagat ॥
- pa~nchatantra, mitrabheda

sarpaaNaaM cha khalaanaaM cha para dravya apahaariNaam ।

abhipraayaaH na sidhyanti tena idaM vartate jagat ॥

January 29th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
बालस्यापि रवेः पादाः पतन्त्युपरि भूभृताम् ।
तेजसा सह जातानां वयः कुत्रोपयुज्यते ॥ 
- पञ्चतन्त्र, मित्रभेद

Transliteration:
bālasyāpi raveḥ pādāḥ patantyupari bhūbhṛtām ।
tejasā saha jātānāṃ vayaḥ kutropayujyate ॥
- pañcatantra, mitrabheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Even the feet of a young Sun (sunrays) can fall on top of the mountains (kings). For those born with brilliance, where is the relevance of age?

Commentary:

The sun is very tender and young early in the morning. But this does not have any bearing on his reach! As easily as he can reach the deep valleys, can he also reach the mountain tops. He shines on kings and kingsmen. For those who are inherently brilliant, their age has no connection to their achievements. That certainly is an attribute everyone wants to possess!

Achievements are not necessarily gauged based on one's years of experience. Children, even with their naivety and innocence, teach the grown-ups a lot. Age is no factor to the little ones. They teach us to be curious always, be happy for no reason, and fight tirelessly for what we want.  As adults, why do we fall short of these traits?!

Children are inherently happy and their happiness is contagious. While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about!

pada vigrahaH:
बालस्य अपि रवेः पादाः पतन्ति उपरि भूभृताम् ।
bālasya api raveḥ pādāḥ patanti upari bhūbhṛtām ।

तेजसा सह जातानां वयः कुत्र उपयुज्यते ॥
tejasā saha jātānāṃ vayaḥ kutra upayujyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
baalasyaapi raveH paadaaH patantyupari bhUbhRutaam ।
tejasaa saha jaataanaaM vayaH kutropayujyate ॥
- pa~nchatantra, mitrabheda

baalasya api raveH paadaaH patanti upari bhUbhRutaam ।

tejasaa saha jaataanaaM vayaH kutra upayujyate ॥

December 4th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
वनानि दहतो वह्नेः सखा भवति मारुतः ।
स एव दीपनाषाय कृशे कस्यास्ति सौहृदम् ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, काकोलूकीय

Transliteration:
vanāni dahato vahneḥ sakhā bhavati mārutaḥ ।
sa eva dīpanāṣāya kṛśe kasyāsti sauhṛdam ॥
- pañcatantra, kākolūkīya

Meaning of the subhAShita:

For the fire that is burning forests, wind becomes a friend. The same (wind becomes) the cause of extinguishing a lamp. Who has affection for the weak?

Commentary:

When a whole forest is ablaze, wind fans the fires making them burn with even more rage. But the same wind will become the reason for blowing out the fire in a little lamp. 

Alas, everyone befriends strength! Who wants to take the side of the weak?!

Everyone sucks up to power. Everyone wants to be around the rich and the famous. It takes a big heart and tremendous courage to befriend the downtrodden and weak. It takes a kind, gentle and understanding heart, to stand up for and with the less fortunate.

Be kind to those who are less fortunate.  It is an opportunity to show gratitude for the gifts of life that we have been bestowed with! 

pada vigrahaH:
वनानि दहतः वह्नेः सखा भवति मारुतः ।
vanāni dahataḥ vahneḥ sakhā bhavati mārutaḥ ।

सः एव दीप-नाषाय कृशे कस्य अस्ति सौहृदम् ॥
saḥ eva dīpa-nāṣāya kṛśe kasya asti sauhṛdam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
vanaani dahato vahneH sakhaa bhavati maarutaH ।
sa eva dIpanaaShaaya kRushe kasyaasti sauhRudam ॥
- pa~nchatantra, kaakolUkeeya

vanaani dahataH vahneH sakhaa bhavati maarutaH ।

saH eva dIpa-naaShaaya kRushe kasya asti sauhRudam ॥

October 26th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
उद्यमेन हि सिध्यन्ति कार्याणि न मनोरथैः ।
न हि सुप्‍तस्य सिंहस्य प्रविशन्ति मुखे मृगाः ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, मित्रसम्प्राप्ति

Transliteration:
udyamena hi sidhyanti kāryāṇi na manorathaiḥ ।
na hi sup‍tasya siṃhasya praviśanti mukhe mṛgāḥ ॥
- pañcatantra, mitrasamprāpti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Tasks can only be achieved through industriousness, not intentions. (Afterall,) prey will not fall into the mouth of a sleeping lion!

Commentary:

Intentions don't move mountains!

And rightfully so. Merely having good goals, thoughts, and strengths won't help one to realize his dreams. Industriousness, zealousness, alertness, and activity are also essential for success. 

A lion, only because he is the king of the jungle, can't sleep in his den and expect prey to come fall at his feet and beg him to eat them! He may have all the strength required to bring down an elephant, but that alone is not enough. He has to put his skills to use if he wants food.  He has to hunt for his own food. He has to crouch silently, watch the moves of his prey, and then pounce at the right time.  He has to work for his food.  

Similarly, to achieve a goal, one should plan his actions and execute his plans to attain the desired results.

Let's get working!

pada vigrahaH:
उद्यमेन हि सिध्यन्ति कार्याणि न मनोरथैः ।
udyamena hi sidhyanti kāryāṇi na manorathaiḥ ।

न हि सुप्‍तस्य सिंहस्य प्रविशन्ति मुखे मृगाः ॥
na hi sup‍tasya siṃhasya praviśanti mukhe mṛgāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
udyamena hi sidhyanti kaaryaaNi na manorathaiH ।
na hi suptasya siMhasya pravishanti mukhe mRugaaH ॥
- pa~nchatantra, mitrasampraapti

udyamena hi sidhyanti kaaryaaNi na manorathaiH ।

na hi suptasya siMhasya pravishanti mukhe mRugaaH ॥