November 3rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

पात्रे त्यागी गुणे रागी संविभागी च बन्धुषु ।

शास्त्रे बोद्धा रणे योद्धा स वै पुरुष उच्यते ॥

Transliteration:

pātre tyāgī guṇe rāgī saṃvibhāgī ca bandhuṣu ।

śāstre boddhā raṇe yoddhā sa vai puruṣa ucyate ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Gives to the deserving, inspired by noble qualities (in others), shares with kin, knowledgeable in the scriptures, courageous on the battlefield—such a person is called a man. 

Commentary:

The true measure of man lies not in the power he holds, but in what he chooses to do with it.  These are the characteristics that make a man a gentleman. 

It is not enough for him to be content with little or to be born into privilege. The mark of a good man is not in his accumulation, but in his willingness to share—generously and humbly—with those who are deserving. This is the essence of goodness.

A man of true character recognizes that it is his character, above all, that defines him. It is through the cultivation of this character that he gains the ability to see and honor the good in others. Such insight, in turn, propels him toward continued self-improvement.

In giving, we receive far more than we give away. Sharing with our kin not only creates abundance, but it reveals the heart of a compassionate spirit. The more we share, the more we find ourselves enriched—by both the world and the depths of our own humanity.

Every man is born with the same potential and the same innate gifts. But it is through the pursuit of wisdom, often found in sacred teachings, that a man becomes refined, cultured, and truly whole.

True courage is not the absence of fear, but the resolve to press forward even when one’s strength is spent. It is not the power of the body that matters, but the strength of the spirit that carries a man through dark times. In moments of crisis, it is the courage to face adversity with dignity and valor, that defines his greatness.

True strength is not in a man’s attitude or bravado. It lies in the standards he holds himself to and in the integrity with which he lives. These are the traits that mark a man of a higher caliber. It is far more valuable to think as a man of action and to act as a man of thought. Education, wealth, or social standing—these things do not make a man. It is the virtues he embodies and the character he builds, that shape his legacy. 

pada vigrahaH:

पात्रे त्यागी गुणे रागी संविभागी च बन्धुषु ।

pātre tyāgī guṇe rāgī saṃvibhāgī ca bandhuṣu ।

शास्त्रे बोद्धा रणे योद्धा सः वै पुरुषः उच्यते ॥

śāstre boddhā raṇe yoddhā saḥ vai puruṣaḥ ucyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

paatre tyaagee guNe raagee saMvibhaagee cha bandhuShu |

shaastre boddhaa raNe yoddhaa sa vai puruSha uchyate ||

paatre tyaagee guNe raagee saMvibhaagee cha bandhuShu |

shaastre boddhaa raNe yoddhaa saH vai puruShaH uchyate ||

October 20th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

नागुणी गुणिनं वेत्ति गुणी गुणिषु मत्सरी ।

गुणी च गुणरागी च विरलः सरलो जनः ॥

Transliteration:

nāguṇī guṇinaṃ vetti guṇī guṇiṣu matsarī ।

guṇī ca guṇarāgī ca viralaḥ saralo janaḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A person devoid of virtues does not cognize virtue (in others). Those with virtues are jealous of others with merit.  A person with simplicity who is virtuous and also appreciates virtue (in others) is rare to come by.    

Commentary:

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

Simple people keep things simple! They honor in others what they value in themselves, free of double standards. 

However, in society, we often see those with merit viewing others as competition, pulling each other down instead of lifting each other up. In this struggle, often merit loses its own worth.

Those without excellence may fail to recognize it in others, leaving merit unrewarded in their eyes as well.

The poet laments that the truly virtuous—the rare few, who live in harmony with their values and admire virtue in others—are hard to find. 

True virtue, after all, lies in balance—the golden mean between excess and deficiency. Indeed, a simple person whose thoughts, words, and actions align, is rare.

pada vigrahaH:

न अगुणी गुणिनं वेत्ति गुणी गुणिषु मत्सरी ।

na aguṇī guṇinaṃ vetti guṇī guṇiṣu matsarī ।

गुणी च गुण-रागी च विरलः सरलः जनः ॥

guṇī ca guṇa-rāgī ca viralaḥ saralaḥ janaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

naaguNI guNinaM vetti guNI guNiShu matsarI ।

guNI cha guNaraagI cha viralaH saralo janaH ॥

na aguNI guNinaM vetti guNI guNiShu matsarI ।

guNI cha guNa-raagI cha viralaH saralaH janaH ॥

September 29th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

येषां न विद्या न तपो न दानं ज्ञानं न शीलं न गुणो न धर्मः ।

ते मर्त्यलोके भुवि भारभूता मनुष्यरूपेण मृगाश्चरन्ति ॥

-नीतिशतक

Transliteration:

yeṣāṃ na vidyā na tapo na dānaṃ jñānaṃ na śīlaṃ na guṇo na dharmaḥ ।

te martyaloke bhuvi bhārabhūtā manuṣyarūpeṇa mṛgāścaranti ॥

-nītiśataka

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Those devoid of knowledge, nor do penance, nor give (dānaṃ), nor have wisdom, character, virtue, nor a sense of righteousness—such people, being a burden on the earth, roam like animals in human form.

Commentary:

A human being is, perhaps, the most unpredictable, dangerous, and destructive creature to walk the Earth. No other animal possesses the same intellect, nor the cunning charm to deceive like him. Add money and power into the equation, and the complexities only grow. Yet, humans are also blessed with something extraordinary: willpower! 

This is precisely why humans need to practice a wide range of disciplines. We are not born ready to be virtuous always. We must learn to seek knowledge, practice discipline as if it were a form of penance, shed selfishness and cultivate generosity. Wisdom is not a given either—it grows through experience. Building a strong character and living by virtuous principles requires conscious effort, just as developing a sense of righteousness demands continuous refinement.

Without these attributes, the immense potential we possess becomes nothing more than brute power—wild and unrestrained. Unrestrained power is not just frightening; it can also be deadly.

The poet laments that humans who neglect to develop these virtues are no better than animals, wandering through life as burdens on the Earth. Those words are harsh but not without truth. Animals are bound by the instincts of their nature. They do not have the luxury of elevating themselves. But we, as humans, have no such excuse for remaining stagnant, primitive, or unrefined.

Remarkably, progress is often a chain reaction—when we begin working on one positive trait, others follow. The journey toward self-improvement gathers momentum—pulling us away from being uncivilized and untamed—towards becoming something greater.

Being human by birth is a gift, but becoming a real human being requires conscious effort. It is not enough to simply exist as a weary load in the world. We must strive to live with a purpose, evolve with intention, and become human in the truest sense.

Be human. Live deliberately.

pada vigrahaH:

येषां न विद्या न तपः न दानं ज्ञानं न शीलं न गुणः न धर्मः ।

yeṣāṃ na vidyā na tapaḥ na dānaṃ jñānaṃ na śīlaṃ na guṇaḥ na dharmaḥ ।

ते मर्त्य-लोके भुवि भार-भूताः मनुष्य-रूपेण मृगाः चरन्ति ॥

te martya-loke bhuvi bhāra-bhūtāḥ manuṣya-rūpeṇa mṛgāḥ caranti ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

yeShaaM na vidyaa na tapo na daanaM j~naanaM na shIlaM na guNo na dharmaH ।

te martyaloke bhuvi bhaarabhUtaa manuShyarUpeNa mRugaashcharanti ॥

-nItishataka

yeShaaM na vidyaa na tapaH na daanaM j~naanaM na shIlaM na guNaH na dharmaH ।

te martya-loke bhuvi bhaara-bhUtaaH manuShya-rUpeNa mRugaaH charanti ॥

September 28th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

आदित्यचन्द्रावनिलोऽनलश्च द्यौर्भूमिरापो हृदयं यमश्च ।

अहश्च रात्रिश्च उभे च सन्ध्ये धर्मश्च जानाति नरस्य वृत्तम् ॥

- महाभारत, आदिपर्व

Transliteration:

ādityacandrāvanilo'nalaśca dyaurbhūmirāpo hṛdayaṃ yamaśca ।

ahaśca rātriśca ubhe ca sandhye dharmaśca jānāti narasya vṛttam ॥

- mahābhārata, ādiparva

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The Sun and the Moon, the wind, the fire, the sky, the earth, the waters, the heart, Lord Yama (Lord of Death), the morning, the night, the two twilights, and also Dharma—they all are aware of the full account (thoughts, character, deeds, etc.) of a person.  

Commentary:

It is said, "Character is what we do when no one is watching." This phrase captures a profound truth: our truest selves tend to emerge in the absence of an audience. When eyes are upon us, the natural instinct is to present our best selves, for no one desires to tarnish their reputation. We strive to shine, consciously or unconsciously, to avoid judgment and criticism of others.

But what if we were to realize that we are never truly alone?! What if, at every moment, we are surrounded by an audience far greater than we can comprehend?! Not just one or two observers, but an entire assembly—It comprises the very 5 elements that shape our existence. Then there is the Sun which radiates its light upon our actions, while the Moon reflects our hidden thoughts. Dawn and dusk mark the passage of our choices, while Death (Lord Yama) stands vigil, ensuring that each of our deeds is accounted for. Let us not forget Dharma, the principle of righteousness, which quietly nudges us toward virtue.

Yet, beyond these external watchers, there exists the most vigilant observer of all—our own heart. It witnesses every breath we take, every thought that crosses our mind, and every action we undertake. This internal companion never blinks, never turns away, and is the constant observer of who we truly are.

The fear of accumulating bad karma looms large over us, serving as a universal truth we cannot escape. In a world where our actions ripple outward, if we remained keenly aware of this eternal scrutiny, would we still engage in behaviors that are adhārmic (unrighteous)?!  If we were to embrace this awareness, it could transform our lives, guiding us to act with integrity, regardless of whether other people are watching. This commitment to doing the right thing at all times represents the highest form of piety.

We are always being watched. Now, it is time to turn the lens inward and truly observe our watchers. To recognize the multitude of eyes—both seen and unseen—that scrutinize our every move can lead us to live authentically. Real character manifests in our ability to act rightly and consistently, in all circumstances.

May we cultivate this spirit within ourselves, becoming more attuned to the silent witnesses of our lives. Let our actions reflect the highest ideals, regardless of the audience, for true character flourishes in every moment and through every choice.

pada vigrahaH:

आदित्य-चन्द्रौ अनिलः अनलः च द्यौः भूमिः आपः हृदयं यमः च ।

āditya-candrau anilaḥ analaḥ ca dyauḥ bhūmiḥ āpaḥ hṛdayaṃ yamaḥ ca ।

अहः च रात्रिः च उभे च सन्ध्ये धर्मः च जानाति नरस्य वृत्तम् ॥

ahaḥ ca rātriḥ ca ubhe ca sandhye dharmaḥ ca jānāti narasya vṛttam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

aadityachandravanilo.nalashcha dhyour bhoomiraapo hRudayam yamashcha ।

ahashcha raatrishcha ube cha sandhye dharmashcha jaanaati narasya vRuttam ॥

- mahaabhaarata, aadiparva

aaditya-chandrau anilaH analaH cha dhyouH bhoomiH aapaH hRudayam yamaH cha ।

ahaH cha raatriH cha ube cha sandhye dharmaH cha jaanaati narasya vRuttam ॥

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॥

March 30th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सदयं हृदयं यस्य भाषितं सत्यभूषितम् ।
कायः परहिते यस्य कलिस्तस्य करोति किम् ॥
- सुभाषितावलि

Transliteration:
sadayaṃ hṛdayaṃ yasya bhāṣitaṃ satyabhūṣitam ।
kāyaḥ parahite yasya kalistasya karoti kim ॥
- subhāṣitāvali

Meaning of the subhAShita:

(He) whose heart is filled with compassion, (whose) speech is adorned with truth, (and) whose constitution (form) is for the benefaction of others—what can Kali (puruṣa) do to him?!

Commentary:

The current era, Kaliyuga, is deemed the most corrupt and atrocious of all the 4 eras.  It is said that the reigning master of the era, Kalipuruṣa, causes havoc in the world.  But the poet states that if one's heart is brimming with compassion, speech is adorned with honesty and he is readily available for the welfare of others—what can Kalipuruṣa do to such an individual?!  Even the most atrocious of the masters, Kali, can do nothing to shake the resolve or cause havoc in the life of such a person.  The tenacity of these attributes in one's character is so strong that he can ward off the worst effects brought about by the yuga-dharma (nature of the era).

• If one is compassionate to his fellow beings, the happiness that both the giver and the receiver get is immense.

• If there is honesty in one's words, he has nothing to hide or defend.

• If one is readily available to do welfare for others, then there is no ounce of selfish motive in him.  

How can such a person not be happy?  When one is happy internally, what can anyone do to deter his well-being or contentment?!!

May we all win over Kalipuruṣa's atrocities, develop these traits, and make the world a happier place!

pada vigrahaH:
सदयं हृदयं यस्य भाषितं सत्य-भूषितम् ।
sadayaṃ hṛdayaṃ yasya bhāṣitaṃ satya-bhūṣitam ।

कायः परहिते यस्य कलिः तस्य करोति किम् ॥
kāyaḥ parahite yasya kaliḥ tasya karoti kim ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sadayaM hRudayaM yasya bhaaShitaM satyabhUShitam ।
kaayaH parahite yasya kalistasya karoti kim ॥
- subhaaShitaavali

sadayaM hRudayaM yasya bhaaShitaM satya-bhUShitam ।
kaayaH parahite yasya kaliH tasya karoti kim ॥

October 22nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
स्वभावसुन्दरं वस्तु न संस्कारमपेक्षते ।
मुक्तारत्नस्य शाणाश्मघर्षणं नोपयुज्यते ॥
- दृष्टान्तकलिका

Transliteration:
svabhāvasundaraṃ vastu na saṃskāramapekṣate ।
muktāratnasya śāṇāśmagharṣaṇaṃ nopayujyate ॥
- dṛṣṭāntakalikā

Meaning of the subhAShita:

That which is beautiful by nature does not need further refinement.  For a pearl, grinding on a touchstone will do no good!

Commentary:

In its original form, a pearl is lustrous.  One does not have to scrub or polish it to make it shine brighter.  In fact, grinding only harms the pearl because it chips away its layers!  By its very nature, it has the shine that it has.  Any method of processing can neither make it shine less nor more!

That is true for the characteristics of a person as well.  They will shine all on their own, whether he is sitting on a king's throne or living in some obscure thatch, his originality, attributes, and nature will not change.  Just as sweetness is inseparable from sugar, just as saltiness is inseverable from salt, so are the intrinsic characteristics of anyone or anything.  No contentions about this.

Trust your nature and let it shine, all on its own accord!  At the same time, let the nature of others shine through in all their glories as well.

pada vigrahaH:
स्वभाव-सुन्दरं वस्तु न संस्कारम् अपेक्षते ।
svabhāva-sundaraṃ vastu na saṃskāram apekṣate ।

मुक्तारत्नस्य शाण-अश्म-घर्षणं न उपयुज्यते ॥
muktāratnasya śāṇa-aśma-gharṣaṇaṃ na upayujyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
svabhaavasundaraM vastu na saMskaaramapekShate ।
muktaaratnasya shaaNaashmagharShaNaM nopayujyate ॥
- dRuShTaantakalikaa

svabhaava-sundaraM vastu na saMskaaram apekShate ।

muktaaratnasya shaaNa-ashma-gharShaNaM na upayujyate ॥

October 8th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गुणाः सन्ति नराणां चेत् विकसन्त्येव ते स्वयम् ।
न हि कस्तूरिकामोदः शपथेन निवार्यते ॥

Transliteration:
guṇāḥ santi narāṇāṃ cet vikasantyeva te svayam ।
na hi kastūrikāmodaḥ śapathena nivāryate ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

If there are efficacies in people, they shall blossom on their own.  It is not possible to ward off the perfume of musk by any means.

Commentary:

What is inherent cannot stay hidden, nor can it be changed for any reason!  Can any amount of washing or drying strip away the innate fragrance of musk?  Can any amount of coaxing make a nightingale sing less sweetly?  Can any amount of bleaching peel the colors from the feathers of a peacock?

The inherent attributes of an object are ingrained in its very existence!  That is true for the nature of people as well.  The intrinsic nature of a person cannot be masked for very long.  It shall surface one day or the other.  Whether it is a person's good attributes or evil ones, they can't lay low forever.

The moral is—intrinsic characteristics need not be advertised.  True beauty is inherent and comes from character and strength.  They will shine on their own.  Nothing or nobody can dilute them!  Have faith in your innate strength and keep going!

pada vigrahaH:
गुणाः सन्ति नराणां चेत् विकसन्ति एव ते स्वयम् ।
guṇāḥ santi narāṇāṃ cet vikasanti eva te svayam ।

न हि कस्तूरिका आमोदः शपथेन निवार्यते ॥
na hi kastūrikā āmodaḥ śapathena nivāryate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
guNaaH santi naraaNaaM chet vikasantyeva te svayam ।
na hi kastUrikaamodaH shapathena nivaaryate ॥

guNaaH santi naraaNaaM chet vikasanti eva te svayam ।

na hi kastUrikaa aamodaH shapathena nivaaryate ॥

September 5th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
देहे पातिनि का रक्षा यशो रक्ष्यमपातवत् ।
नरः पातितकायोऽपि यशःकायेन जीवति ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
dehe pātini kā rakṣā yaśo rakṣyamapātavat ।
naraḥ pātitakāyo'pi yaśaḥkāyena jīvati ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Why protect the body that is bound to fall off?  Honor should be protected from falling. Even when the body is thrown, the being lives through his honor.

Commentary:

Immortality is not for the body. 

If one wishes to live eternally, the footprints he needs to leave behind are not his physical ones, but those of his deeds. Desirous of immortality, many beings have performed penances to live forever. We all have to die at one point or the other. What is the point of protecting the physical body that is eventually bound to be discarded? 

However, whether one is alive or not, the seeds of the deeds he has sown live on. His valor and honor never die. Not only his glory lives on but his deeds live on too. For, his life will prove to be an inspiration for many, for generations to come! This way, the society at large benefits not only from his deeds alone but also from the actions of those who are inspired by him. As such, he becomes immortal through his venerable actions!

What we do for ourselves fades away with us, but what we do for others and the world leaves a lasting legacy. That is true immortality. While death is inevitable for all, the aim should not be to live forever but to create something that will endure long after we're gone!

pada vigrahaH:
देहे पातिनि का रक्षा यशः रक्ष्यम् अपातवत् ।
dehe pātini kā rakṣā yaśaḥ rakṣyam apātavat ।

नरः पातित-कायः अपि यशः-कायेन जीवति ॥
naraḥ pātita-kāyaḥ api yaśaḥ-kāyena jīvati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
dehe paatini kaa rakShaa yasho rakShyamapaatavat ।
naraH paatitakaayo.pi yashaHkaayena jIvati ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

dehe paatini kaa rakShaa yashaH rakShyam apaatavat ।

naraH paatita-kaayaH api yashaH-kaayena jIvati ॥

August 23rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दृष्टिपूतं न्यसेत्पादं वस्त्रपूतं पिबेज्जलम् ।
शास्त्रपूतं वदेद्वाक्यं मनः पूतं समाचरेत् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
dṛṣṭipūtaṃ nyasetpādaṃ vastrapūtaṃ pibejjalam ।
śāstrapūtaṃ vadedvākyaṃ manaḥ pūtaṃ samācaret ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Clear the path through sight; filter drinking water through a cloth; purify speech through knowledge of scriptures; cleanse actions through thought.

Commentary:

While walking, before putting his foot down, one visually makes sure his path is clear. He does this so that he doesn't falter or slip. There might be a stone he could trip on or a pit he could fall into. If he has visually cleared the path he is treading on, he can reach his destination quickly and safely.

Drinking water needs to be filtered. In the olden days, a piece of cloth was used to strain it. Rainwater is not directly drinkable unless it is from the springs. It needs to be purified of all sediments before consumption, through some means of filtration. 

One's words should be wise and compassionate. This can happen when it is purified through the study of scriptures and the knowledge gained by them. Whetted by the scriptural knowledge, one speaks pleasantly and appropriately.

Look before you leap, think before you act!  If one thinks his actions through and applies his heart, he will not take a wrong step.

Think your actions through and do not hesitate to execute anything which is purified through your thoughts.

pada vigrahaH:
दृष्टि-पूतं न्यसेत्  पादं वस्त्र-पूतं पिबेत् जलम् । 
dṛṣṭi-pūtaṃ nyaset pādaṃ vastra-pūtaṃ pibet jalam ।

शास्त्र-पूतं वदेत् वाक्यं मनः पूतं समाचरेत् ॥
śāstra-pūtaṃ vadet vākyaṃ manaḥ pūtaṃ samācaret ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
dRuShTipUtaM nyasetpaadaM vastrapUtaM pibejjalam ।
shaastrapUtaM vadedvaakyaM manaH pUtaM samaacharet ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

dRuShTi-pUtaM nyaset paadaM vastra-pUtaM pibet jalam ।

shaastra-pUtaM vadet vaakyaM manaH pUtaM samaacharet ॥

August 17th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
मृदुमप्यवमन्यन्ते तीक्ष्णादुद्विजते जनः ।
मा तीक्ष्णो मा मृदुर्भूः त्वं तीक्ष्णो भव मृदुर्भव ॥
- महाभारत, शान्तिपर्व


Transliteration:
mṛdumapyavamanyante tīkṣṇādudvijate janaḥ ।
mā tīkṣṇo mā mṛdurbhūḥ tvaṃ tīkṣṇo bhava mṛdurbhava ॥
- mahābhārata, śāntiparva

Meaning of the subhAShita:

People show contempt towards the soft (and) are agitated by the harsh. Don't be (over) harsh or soft.  Be both harsh AND soft!

Commentary:

When a person is overly soft, people often show contempt towards him, dismiss his presence, and disregard his words. On the other hand, when someone is harsh and assertive, it may intimidate people initially but ultimately it agitates and alienates them. 

So, what is the ideal way to be? The poet advises that one should strike a balance—be neither excessively soft nor overly harsh. Both extremes have their drawbacks and advantages. Instead, the key lies in mastering the art of being both soft and harsh as the situation demands. The emphasis on and is vital here. While it may seem paradoxical, this approach ensures the right response at the right time.

Under challenging circumstances, one must exhibit firmness and tenacity. Buckling under pressure is not an option. Yet, when faced with situations that call for humility and compassion, a tough demeanor serves no purpose. In such moments, a heart that can empathize and melt with kindness is indispensable.

The essence lies in balance—showing strength when it is necessary and softness when it is appropriate. The right temperament for the right moment is what truly defines wisdom. Be harsh and soft in equal measure, but always in harmony with the situation!

pada vigrahaH:
मृदुम् अपि अवमन्यन्ते तीक्ष्णात् उद्विजते जनः ।
mṛdum api avamanyante tīkṣṇāt udvijate janaḥ ।

मा तीक्ष्णः मा मृदुः भूः त्वं तीक्ष्णः भव मृदुः भव ॥
mā tīkṣṇaḥ mā mṛduḥ bhūḥ tvaṃ tīkṣṇaḥ bhava mṛduḥ bhava ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
mRudumapyavamanyante tIkShNaadudvijate janaH ।
maa tIkShNo maa mRudurbhUH tvaM tIkShNo bhava mRudurbhava ॥
- mahaabhaarata, shaantiparva

mRudum api avamanyante tIkShNaat udvijate janaH ।

maa tIkShNaH maa mRuduH bhUH tvaM tIkShNaH bhava mRuduH bhava ॥

July 27th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दारिद्र्यनाशनं दानं शीलं दुर्गतिनाशनम् ।
अज्ञाननाशिनी प्रज्ञा भावना भयनाशिनी ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
dāridryanāśanaṃ dānaṃ śīlaṃ durgatināśanam ।
ajñānanāśinī prajñā bhāvanā bhayanāśinī ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Giving quells poverty, integrity dispels bad times, awareness dismisses ignorance, (and) contemplation dissipates fear.

Commentary:

A little bit of light dispels a lot of darkness!  Similarly, 

1. Giving is an action that quells the poverty of the giver and the receiver alike! The receiver gains what he needs and the giver gains on the scale of virtue and in learning selflessness. Hence, giving eradicates poverty on different levels for all the people involved.
2. No matter the circumstances or conditions, trading values, and integrity is not a choice. Everything else may be in shambles, but his soul won't be! Be it good times or bad times, a person's integrity protects him and allows him to come out unscathed.
3. Awareness and ignorance are antonyms of each other, just like light and darkness. These two swords can never fit in one scabbard. When one is in, the other is out! When one has awareness,  ignorance gets dismissed automatically!
4. Is one afraid in his own house, even if it is dark? Because of familiarity, one will not feel intimidated. It makes it easy for him to contemplate the time and space essential to navigate himself even in darkness. This contemplation dissipates all fears in him and makes his perception of the surroundings clearer.

To turn any weakness into strength, acquire the right tool that dispels the weakness from its very roots. That is success!

pada vigrahaH:
दारिद्र्य-नाशनं दानं शीलं दुर्गति-नाशनम् ।
dāridrya-nāśanaṃ dānaṃ śīlaṃ durgati-nāśanam ।

अज्ञान-नाशिनी प्रज्ञा भावना भय-नाशिनी ॥
ajñāna-nāśinī prajñā bhāvanā bhaya-nāśinī ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
daaridryanaashanaM daanaM shIlaM durgatinaashanam ।
aj~naananaashinI praj~naa bhaavanaa bhayanaashinI ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

daaridrya-naashanaM daanaM shIlaM durgati-naashanam ।

aj~naana-naashinI praj~naa bhaavanaa bhaya-naashinI ॥

June 14th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पुत्राश्च विविधैः शीलैः नियोज्याः सततं बुधैः ।
नीतिज्ञाः शीलसम्पन्नाः भवन्ति कुलपूजिताः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
putrāśca vividhaiḥ śīlaiḥ niyojyāḥ satataṃ budhaiḥ ।
nītijñāḥ śīlasampannāḥ bhavanti kulapūjitāḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Intelligent people always equip children with a variety of integrities. Those endowed with character and moral integrity come to be worshiped in the family/community.

Commentary:

The newest toys in the store, the latest gadgets in the market—are these really the things we need to equip children with?! Watching television all day, and playing video games in between—this is becoming the trend of life, and children are losing out on personal interactions, people skills, and more essentially, moral values!

The verse says smart people know that the only paraphernalia they need to arm their children with is—integrity. A sound moral ground provides a variety of integrities—being honest, working hard, compassion, patience..., and the list goes on! Children with such a cornerstone, become individuals with solid character. It is they who have a strong moral stance and a pronounced character who come to be respected in society. Knowing this chain of links, intelligent parents take those first steps, right from the start.

If children are trained from their younger days to respect and value the people around them, they will be much better people later in life.  An abundance of material comforts one owns does not conduce moral growth in any way.

Children will not remember you for the material things you gave them.  However, they will remember and cherish the morals and values you equipped them with, helping them to embrace life with confidence and respect.

pada vigrahaH:
पुत्राः च विविधैः शीलैः नियोज्याः सततं बुधैः ।
putrāḥ ca vividhaiḥ śīlaiḥ niyojyāḥ satataṃ budhaiḥ ।

नीतिज्ञाः शील-सम्पन्नाः भवन्ति कुल-पूजिताः ॥
nītijñāḥ śīla-sampannāḥ bhavanti kula-pūjitāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
putraashcha vividhaiH shIlaiH niyojyaaH satataM budhaiH ।
nItij~naaH shIlasampannaaH bhavanti kulapUjitaaH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

putraaH cha vividhaiH shIlaiH niyojyaaH satataM budhaiH ।

nItij~naaH shIla-sampannaaH bhavanti kula-pUjitaaH ॥

May 19th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अकारणं रूपमकारणं कुलम् ।
महत्सु नीचेषु च कर्मैव शोभते ॥
- पञ्चरात्र


Transliteration:
akāraṇaṃ rūpamakāraṇaṃ kulam ।
mahatsu nīceṣu ca karmaiva śobhate ॥
- pañcarātra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Beauty is of no bearing, lineage is non-instrumental. Be it the mighty or the insignificant, their deeds are that which shine.

Commentary:

Beauty is only skin deep and has little importance, so is one's lineage or family background.  The beauty (or the lack of it) is God-given.  And one's lineage is also God-given—this is destiny at work!  When those aspects are beyond one's control, how can he expect to reap benefits based on them?!

What is in one's control, however, are his actions. Actions speak volumes about a person's character, illustrating his opinions, morals, and ethics.  It is one's actions that define his position in society among peers; one's actions determine if a person is noble or insignificant.

A man becomes great by deeds, not birth. Good deeds are never lost! Neither fire nor wind, neither death nor birth can erase them.  

pada vigrahaH:

अकारणं रूपम् अकारणं कुलम् ।
akāraṇaṃ rūpam akāraṇaṃ kulam ।

महत्सु नीचेषु च कर्म एव शोभते ॥
mahatsu nīceṣu ca karma eva śobhate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
akaaraNaM rUpamakaaraNaM kulam ।
mahatsu nIcheShu cha karmaiva shobhate ॥
- pa~ncharaatra

akaaraNaM rUpam akaaraNaM kulam ।

mahatsu nIcheShu cha karma eva shobhate ॥

April 26th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
नात्यन्तं सरलैर्भाव्यं गत्वा पश्य वनस्थलीम् ।
छिद्यन्ते सरलास्तत्र कुब्जास्तिष्ठन्ति पादपाः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
nātyantaṃ saralairbhāvyaṃ gatvā paśya vanasthalīm ।
chidyante saralāstatra kubjāstiṣṭhanti pādapāḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Do not have the simplest of demeanor. Go and see in the forest—the straight-standing trees are felled and the crooked (ones) still stand!

Commentary:

This verse is not a call for "learning a contorted disposition" in any way! 

It is mainly a call for the really simple and forthright souls. They are the ones who generally bear the brunt of the evil and spiteful people of the world. The poet gives them the example of the trees in the forest. It is easier to cut down a straight tree than a bent-out, crooked tree. Therefore, the woodcutters take the easiest route and chop down the straight trees.  And because it requires more effort, not many people bother to take down the crooked tree. 

Similarly, if one is not too straightforward and knows how to stand up for himself, he won't get into many unwanted situations. He has to be diplomatic and troublemakers will consider themselves warned and keep their distance.

It is like the story where the sage tells a snake that it is okay to hiss in self-defense, but not to hurt passers-by. This demeanor is okay to be used in self-defense, but not for afflicting pain upon others.

pada vigrahaH:
न अत्यन्तं सरलैः भाव्यं गत्वा पश्य वन-स्थलीम् ।
na atyantaṃ saralaiḥ bhāvyaṃ gatvā paśya vana-sthalīm ।

छिद्यन्ते सरलाः तत्र कुब्जाः तिष्ठन्ति पादपाः ॥
chidyante saralāḥ tatra kubjāḥ tiṣṭhanti pādapāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
naatyantaM saralairbhaavyaM gatvaa pashya vana-sthalIm ।
Chidyante saralaastatra kubjaastiShThanti paadapaaH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

na atyantaM saralaiH bhaavyaM gatvaa pashya vanasthalIm ।

Chidyante saralaaH tatra kubjaaH tiShThanti paadapaaH ॥

April 2nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यथा चतुर्भिः कनकं परीक्ष्यते निघर्षणच्छेदनतापताडनैः ।
तथा चतुर्भिः पुरुषः परीक्ष्यते त्यागेन शीलेन गुणेन कर्मणा ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
yathā caturbhiḥ kanakaṃ parīkṣyate nigharṣaṇacchedanatāpatāḍanaiḥ ।
tathā caturbhiḥ puruṣaḥ parīkṣyate tyāgena śīlena guṇena karmaṇā ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Just as gold is tested through rubbing, cutting, heating, and beating; a man is examined on four (fronts)—liberality, character, efficacy (and) action.

Commentary:

Gold is the most malleable and ductile element. It can be beaten into the thinnest sheets or stretched to make the longest threads. Its luster is unique too. A goldsmith, who works day in and day out with the metal, checks for the authenticity of the gold brought to him. His modus operandi is rubbing it against a rough touchstone. Real gold won't lose its shine or leave streaks. In this process of evaluation, he beats it, heats it, and cuts.

Similarly, the testing grounds for a person are:

1. Liberality—how generous he is in his giving; it could be his wealth, services, or even compassion.
2. Character—his values and morals come under this umbrella.
3. Efficacy—his nature, temperament, and attributes in general.
4. Action—deeds. There must be an alignment in what is thought, said, and done. Actions speak louder than words. 

A person is graded based on these 4 aspects.  Know your moral grounds.

pada vigrahaH:
यथा चतुर्भिः कनकं परीक्ष्यते निघर्षण-छेदन-ताप-ताडनैः ।
yathā caturbhiḥ kanakaṃ parīkṣyate nigharṣaṇa-chedana-tāpa-tāḍanaiḥ ।

तथा चतुर्भिः पुरुषः परीक्ष्यते त्यागेन शीलेन गुणेन कर्मणा ॥
tathā caturbhiḥ puruṣaḥ parīkṣyate tyāgena śīlena guṇena karmaṇā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yathaa chaturbhiH kanakaM parIkShyate nigharShaNachChedanataapataaDanaiH ।
tathaa chaturbhiH puruShaH parIkShyate tyaagena shIlena guNena karmaNaa ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

yathaa chaturbhiH kanakaM parIkShyate nigharShaNa-Chedana-taapa-taaDanaiH ।

tathaa chaturbhiH puruShaH parIkShyate tyaagena shIlena guNena karmaNaa ॥

March 22nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अभ्यासाद्धार्यते विद्या कुलं शीलेन धार्यते ।
गुणेन ज्ञायते त्वार्यः कोपो नेत्रेण गम्यते ॥

- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
abhyāsāddhāryate vidyā kulaṃ śīlena dhāryate ।
guṇena jñāyate tvāryaḥ kopo netreṇa gamyate ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Knowledge is borne by practice; a lineage is carried in its integrity; the honorable are held through efficacy; anger is expressed through the eyes.

Commentary:

Right tool for the right reason. 

1. Learning something is not sufficient; it needs to be put to use through practice. Per the popular saying, 'practice makes perfect'. The efficiency of knowledge is clearly evident when applied. One who has great practice will execute the task with more ease than the one who simply learnt it. Therefore, one's knowledge is graded according to their practice of it.
2. A family's morals and values are expressed through a person's integrity and conduct. His morality, respectability, and values shine through his personality more than his material possessions.
3. Whether one is born in a higher or lower caste (per social norms), does not define his nobility. His greatness comes from his character and how he conducts himself when dealing with others.
4. Interestingly, the poet says that one's anger and displeasure need not be expressed in words or deeds. No matter what one says or does, his true temperament is reflected in his eyes. As the saying goes, 'eyes are the windows to one's soul'.  Eyes give away one's true feelings, irrespective of the individual's speech or actions. Hence, the best way to communicate with another person is by looking into his eyes. An eye contact is capable of communicating a lot more than mere words. It not only reveals one's true feelings but also compels others to be honest. Now, that's a bonus!

Good communication is the bridge between confusion and clarity. Use it effectively. 

pada vigrahaH:

अभ्यासात् धार्यते विद्या कुलं शीलेन धार्यते ।
abhyāsāt dhāryate vidyā kulaṃ śīlena dhāryate ।

गुणेन ज्ञायते तु आर्यः कोपः नेत्रेण गम्यते ॥
guṇena jñāyate tu āryaḥ kopaḥ netreṇa gamyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
abhyaasaaddhaaryate vidyaa kulaM shIlena dhaaryate ।
guNena j~naayate tvaaryaH kopo netreNa gamyate ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

abhyaasaat dhaaryate vidyaa kulaM shIlena dhaaryate ।

guNena j~naayate tu aaryaH kopaH netreNa gamyate ॥

March 3rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
आपदि मित्रपरीक्षा च शूरपरीक्षा च रणाङ्गणे ।
विनये वंशपरीक्षा च शीलपरीक्षा तु धनक्षये ॥

Transliteration:
āpadi mitraparīkṣā ca śūraparīkṣā ca raṇāṅgaṇe ।
vinaye vaṃśaparīkṣā ca śīlaparīkṣā tu dhanakṣaye ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A friend's testing ground is calamities; the brave are tested on the battlefield; the test for a family is in its humility; and, character is tested in times of poverty.

Commentary:

One might have a plethora of friends whom they hang out with and many more who would want to get to know him. But the true testing ground for the friendship is in times of trouble. The true colors of all friends surface the minute he is in a calamity. The person who stands by him through thick and thin is his one true friend.

Talking about courage, and even training in martial arts doesn't make one brave. A person's valiance comes to light when he has to face real circumstances and fight a battle on a battlefield. That is his real testing ground.

A family's worth is not gauged by possessions, wealth, friends, and foes. The real test for a family is its value system. The kind of culture and moralities that are imbibed by their children speak volumes about the state of affairs in the family!

One can be of great character in pleasant times. When he has all the riches in the world, it is easy for a person to follow the rules, do good to others, be cheerful, etc. But when the materialistic riches are gone, there is a scarcity of resources, and there is no fallback, the mettle of the person's character is then put to the real test.

Keeping moral grounds under all circumstances takes courage and character!

pada vigrahaH:

आपदि मित्र-परीक्षा च शूर-परीक्षा च रण-अङ्गणे ।
āpadi mitra-parīkṣā ca śūra-parīkṣā ca raṇa-aṅgaṇe ।

विनये वंश-परीक्षा च शील-परीक्षा तु धन-क्षये ॥
vinaye vaṃśa-parīkṣā ca śīla-parīkṣā tu dhana-kṣaye ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
aapadi mitraparIkShaa cha shUraparIkShaa cha raNaa~ngaNe ।
vinaye vaMshaparIkShaa cha shIlaparIkShaa tu dhanakShaye ॥

aapadi mitra-parIkShaa cha shUra-parIkShaa cha raNa-a~ngaNe ।
vinaye vaMsha-parIkShaa cha shIla-parIkShaa tu dhana-kShaye ॥

January 21st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
काकः कृष्णः पिकः कृष्णः को भेदः पिककाकयोः ।
वसन्तकाले संप्राप्ते काकः काकः पिकः पिकः ॥
- कुवलयानन्द

Transliteration:
kākaḥ kṛṣṇaḥ pikaḥ kṛṣṇaḥ ko bhedaḥ pikakākayoḥ ।
vasantakāle saṃprāpte kākaḥ kākaḥ pikaḥ pikaḥ ॥
- kuvalayānanda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A crow is black, a nightingale is black... what is the difference between the two? Come spring, a crow is a crow, a nightingale is a nightingale.

Commentary:

In appearance, a crow and a nightingale aren't very different. A crow is black and so is a nightingale. How can we tell the difference? It doesn't matter! Because, when spring arrives, the difference will instantly become evident. While a nightingale sings melodiously, a crow... well... crows. The crow can hang out with the nightingale, try to eat like him, or fly like him. But these would only be external imitations. The true nature of a nightingale is its sweet voice, which is unimitable by a crow.  (A crow is special in its own way and contributes in ways he was made for.  But that is beside the point.)

The metaphor of the crow and nightingale is given to illustrate that we must remain who we are. It doesn't do much good if we talk, walk, or act like someone else. Each and every being is precious on this earth and God made each one with a purpose. The roles of 'others' are already taken..., by other people, obviously :). Let's be ourselves instead of pretending to be someone we are not.

It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation!  External appearances don't make a difference, what's inside is all that matters.  

pada vigrahaH:
काकः कृष्णः पिकः कृष्णः कः भेदः पिक काकयोः ।
kākaḥ kṛṣṇaḥ pikaḥ kṛṣṇaḥ kaḥ bhedaḥ pika kākayoḥ ।

वसन्त काले संप्राप्ते काकः काकः पिकः पिकः ॥
vasanta kāle saṃprāpte kākaḥ kākaḥ pikaḥ pikaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kaakaH kRuShNaH pikaH kRuShNaH ko bhedaH pikakaakayoH ।
vasantakaale saMpraapte kaakaH kaakaH pikaH pikaH ॥
- kuvalayaananda

kaakaH kRuShNaH pikaH kRuShNaH kaH bhedaH pika kaakayoH ।

vasanta kaale saMpraapte kaakaH kaakaH pikaH pikaH ॥

December 19th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
वरमेको गुणी पुत्रः न च मुर्खश्शतान्यपि ।
एकश्चन्द्रस्तमो हन्ति न च तारा गणोऽपि च ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
varameko guṇī putraḥ na ca murkhaśśatānyapi ।
ekaścandrastamo hanti na ca tārā gaṇo'pi ca ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

(Even) one progeny with efficacy is a blessing, not a hundred that are foolish. One moon drives out darkness, not a whole constellation of stars.

Commentary:

More isn't always better! Billions and billions of stars can be seen in the night sky. Despite that, on a moonless night, the stars don't do much to brighten the skies. However, one moon, although alone, can light up the night.

This metaphor is very appropriately used to depict the value of values! Even if one is the lone offspring, if he has good values and efficacy, he will always bring more joy to his parents than a hundred dull and foolish children.

Values carry the most value! They are more expensive than price. 
pada vigrahaH: वरम् एकः गुणी पुत्रः न च मुर्खः शतानि अपि ।
varam ekaḥ guṇī putraḥ na ca murkhaḥ śatāni api ।

एकः चन्द्रः तमः हन्ति न च तारा-गणः अपि च ॥
ekaḥ candraḥ tamaḥ hanti na ca tārā-gaṇaḥ api ca ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
varameko guNI putraH na cha murkhashshataanyapi ।
ekashchandrastamo hanti na cha taaraa gaNo.pi cha ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

varam ekaH guNI putraH na cha murkhaH shataani api ।

ekaH chandraH tamaH hanti na cha taaraa-gaNaH api cha  ॥