November 4th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

परस्परविरोधे तु वयं पञ्चश्च ते शतम् ।

परैस्तु विग्रहे प्राप्ते वयं पञ्चाधिकं शतम् ॥

- महाभारत

Transliteration:

parasparavirodhe tu vayaṃ pañcaśca te śatam ।

paraistu vigrahe prāpte vayaṃ pañcādhikaṃ śatam ॥

- mahābhārata

Meaning of the subhAShita:

When opposing each other, we are 5 and they are a hundred. When against others, we are 5 plus one hundred. 

Commentary:

Unity is Strength!

This timeless truth is famously articulated by Yudhiṣṭhira in the Mahābhārata. When their ill-intentioned cousin Duryodhana was captured by an enemy, Yudhiṣṭhira's brother Bhīma was reluctant to come to his aid. But Yudhiṣṭhira urged Bhīma to set aside personal grudges and offer help in Duryodhana's moment of peril.  He said, "pitted against each other, we are 5 people against their hundred.  Whereas against a common enemy, we are a unified 105!"

Familial matters must be resolved internally, within the confines of the family. Though family disputes are inevitable and conflicts may simmer within the walls, there is a higher purpose when facing external threats. In times of adversity, bonds of kinship must transcend individual differences. When united against a common foe, the strength of that unity is unmatched.

This principle of unity extends far beyond a family unit. It is the cornerstone of communities, cities, states, and nations. When a common enemy seeks to undermine the very fabric of society, it is imperative to stand together.  Divided we are weak, but unified we resist. If we allow ourselves to be consumed by internal strife we invite the enemy inside, making it easier for them to divide and conquer. It is critical and crucial to stay as one unit. 

A family need not be flawless, but it must be united! Just as a family is a source of strength through unity, we must also elevate this sense to the national level. It’s essential to discern who truly belongs in our lives and who does not.  For, in unity there is power and in division there is defeat.

pada vigrahaH:

परस्पर-विरोधे तु वयं पञ्चः च ते शतम् ।

paraspara-virodhe tu vayaṃ pañcaḥ ca te śatam ।

परैः तु विग्रहे प्राप्ते वयं पञ्च-अधिकं शतम् ॥

paraiḥ tu vigrahe prāpte vayaṃ pañca-adhikaṃ śatam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

parasparavirodhe tu vayam pa~jchashcha te shatam |

paraistu vigrahe praapte vayam pa~ncaadhikam shatam ||

- mahaabhaarata

paraspara-virodhe tu vayam pa~nchaH cha te shatam |

paraiH tu vigrahe praapte vayam pa~nca-adhikam shatam ||

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 28th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

उत्सवे व्यसने चैव दुर्भिक्षे शत्रुसङ्कटे ।

राजद्वारे स्मशाने च यस्तिष्ठति स बान्धवः ॥

- हितोपदेश

Transliteration:

utsave vyasane caiva durbhikṣe śatrusaṅkaṭe ।

rājadvāre smaśāne ca yastiṣṭhati sa bāndhavaḥ ॥

- hitopadeśa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

In celebration, in sorrow, during a calamity, during a crisis with an enemy, in front of a higher authority, in the crematorium, he who stays by, is kin (relative). 

Commentary:

In times of joy, prosperity, and abundance, it is only natural for friends and family to gather around like ants to sugar. But life as we know it is not a constant celebration. It ebbs and flows, with highs and lows, twists and turns. When sorrow strikes, the scene often changes. People scatter. The effort required to help lift someone from their misery is too much for many. In times of calamity, self-preservation trumps effort; in moments of crisis, standing by a loved one can seem too daunting. When an enemy threatens, it's easier to slip away than face the challenge together. Confronting authority, a king, or a powerful figure often drives people to retreat in fear. When death comes, only those who truly matter remain, while others step back, fearing that they will be obligated to care for the survivors.  

The poet is right: the one who stands by your side in both joy and sorrow, during calamity or crisis, in the face of an enemy or authority, and even in the crematorium—this person, regardless of bloodline, is the truest of kin. Their loyalty transcends a mere relationship; they become family.  

What makes family truly family, is the unwavering commitment to stick together no matter the circumstances. Family in its deepest sense, is the ultimate source of strength and resilience—a refuge where life begins and love knows no end. This is the foundation upon which we build our lives and the bedrock that supports us through every storm.

pada vigrahaH:

उत्सवे व्यसने च एव दुर्भिक्षे शत्रु-सङ्कटे ।

utsave vyasane ca eva durbhikṣe śatru-saṅkaṭe ।

राज-द्वारे स्मशाने च यः तिष्ठति सः बान्धवः ॥

rāja-dvāre smaśāne ca yaḥ tiṣṭhati saḥ bāndhavaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

utsave vyasane chaiva durbhikShe shatrusa~nkaTe |

raajadvaare smashaane cha yastiShThati sa baandhavaH ||

- hitopadeSa

utsave vyasane cha eva durbhikShe shatru-sa~nkaTe |

raaja-dvaare smashaane ca yaH tiShThati saH baandhavaH ||

October 19th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

अर्थातुराणां न सखा न बन्धुः 

कामातुराणां न भयं न लज्जा ।

क्षुधातुराणां न रुचिर्न वेला 

विद्यातुराणां न सुखं न निद्रा ॥

Transliteration:

arthāturāṇāṃ na sakhā na bandhuḥ 

kāmāturāṇāṃ na bhayaṃ na lajjā ।

kṣudhāturāṇāṃ na rucirna velā 

vidyāturāṇāṃ na sukhaṃ na nidrā ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

For those ambitious of wealth, there are no friends or relatives.  For those afflicted with excessive sexual urges, there is no fear nor shame. Those who are desperately hungry,  do not care for taste or time.  For those who have an intense thirst for knowledge, there are no comforts or sleep.  

Commentary:

The spirit of this verse is about priorities and what people are ready to compromise for specific desires.

By nature, opposites cannot coexist. Where light resides, darkness fades; where cold prevails, warmth withdraws; where water flows, dryness vanishes.

In human nature too, certain opposites cannot find harmony within the same being. A person entirely driven to accumulate wealth sees all people as mere business transactions. In his view, friends and family have no importance—only profit margins hold value, while relationships become insignificant.

Similarly, someone deeply indulged in physical pleasures loses all sense of shame or restraint. Like an animal led by instinct, he pursues his cravings, caring only to satisfy his body’s demands.

When hunger overwhelms, taste and nourishment lose meaning. Time and decency hold no place in his mind; he’ll eat anything, anywhere, just to silence the pangs of his stomach.

On the contrary, one who thirsts endlessly for knowledge forsakes sleep and comfort, tirelessly pursuing his ever-expanding horizon of goals. His mind, driven by an insatiable desire to learn, knows no rest.  He compromises his sleep and comforts to gain what his heart desires—knowledge.  

Importantly, the heart of all pursuits should be human dignity. No goal is worth a trade of self-respect. Dignity does not stem from how others regard us but from how steadfastly we honor ourselves, even in the most trying of times.

pada vigrahaH:

अर्थ आतुराणां न सखा न बन्धुः

artha āturāṇāṃ na sakhā na bandhuḥ

काम आतुराणां न भयं न लज्जा ।

kāma āturāṇāṃ na bhayaṃ na lajjā ।

क्षुधा अतुराणां न रुचिः न वेला

kṣudhā aturāṇāṃ na ruciḥ na velā

विद्या आतुराणां न सुखं न निद्रा ॥

vidyā āturāṇāṃ na sukhaṃ na nidrā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

arthaaturaaNaaM na sakhaa na bandhuH

kaamaaturaaNaaM na bhayaM na lajjaa |

kShudhaaturaaNaaM na rucirna velaa

vidyaaturaaNaaM na sukhaM na nidraa ||

artha aaturaaNaaM na sakhaa na bandhuH

kaama aaturaaNaaM na bhayaM na lajjaa |

kShudhaa aturaaNaaM na ruciH na velaa

vidyaa aaturaaNaaM na sukhaM na nidraa ||

October 7th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

स्त्रियां तु रोचमानायां सर्वं तद्रोचते कुलम् ।

तस्यां त्वरोचमानायां सर्वमेव न रोचते ॥

- मनुस्मृति

Transliteration:

striyāṃ tu rocamānāyāṃ sarvaṃ tadrocate kulam ।

tasyāṃ tvarocamānāyāṃ sarvameva na rocate ॥

- manusmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

When the woman is contented, the whole family appears pleasant.  When she is dismal, the entire household seems to be unhappy.  

Commentary:

She is the glue that holds the family together!

Within every woman resides a healer, a teacher, a guide, a warrior, a leader, a chef, an administrator, a friend, a mother, a wife—in essence, a goddess. The woman of the home shapes its atmosphere. When she is calm and fulfilled, her energy radiates through the household, lifting spirits and harmonizing the family’s rhythm. She is the unseen catalyst, subtly elevating everyone’s spirits with her presence and strength.

When she is weighed down by sadness, it feels as if the entire house falls into a shadow. Her emotions ripple through the walls, and vitality drains from the people around her. If she sheds tears, it is not simply over one specific incident—it is the release of pent-up frustrations and unaddressed emotions carried in silence for too long.

Yet, when a woman stops getting upset, it signals something deeper: exhaustion from caring without reciprocation. It’s not indifference, but the weariness of carrying the emotional weight alone, day after day.

A woman gives her heart and soul to nurture her family, pouring all her energy into each individual's well-being. Even she needs replenishment. A thriving woman—a woman who is heard, valued, and given space to express herself—becomes the heartbeat of a happy home.

A woman with a voice is undeniably powerful. A powerful woman creates not just a house, but a home filled with joy, strength, and love.  When all women thrive, the whole society flourishes! 

pada vigrahaH:

स्त्रियां तु रोचमानायां सर्वं तत् रोचते कुलम् ।

striyāṃ tu rocamānāyāṃ sarvaṃ tat rocate kulam ।

तस्यां तु अरोचमानायां सर्वम् एव न रोचते ॥

tasyāṃ tu arocamānāyāṃ sarvam eva na rocate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

striyaaM tu rochamaanaayaaM sarvaM tadrochate kulam |

tasyaaM tvarochamaanaayaaM sarvameva na rochate ||

- manusmRuti

striyaaM tu rochamaanaayaaM sarvaM tat rochate kulam |

tasyaaM tu arochamaanaayaaM sarvam eva na rochate ||

September 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
न भार्यया समं मित्रं न च धर्मो दयासमः ।
न स्वातन्त्र्यसमं सौख्यं गार्हस्थ्यान्नाश्रमो वरः ॥
- पद्मपुराण

Transliteration:
na bhāryayā samaṃ mitraṃ na ca dharmo dayāsamaḥ ।
na svātantryasamaṃ saukhyaṃ gārhasthyānnāśramo varaḥ ॥
- padmapurāṇa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

There is no friend equal to the wife; there is no dharma (ordinance) which equates to compassion; there is no comfort parallel to freedom; there is no āśrama (stage of life) more blessed than that of a householder.

Commentary:

Unparalleled aspects of life:

• One cannot find a friend better than a spouse.  There are many stages of life and one leans on different people at different times for different requirements.  Eventually, he outgrows them all.  One depends on parents from childhood, but then, parents pass on... One may think children, but, they grow their wings and move on...  Friends come and go.  Only the spouse, who hops on the wagon during the prime of one's life, stays on till the end—be it good times or bad!  The most intimate and longest relationship which one can possibly share throughout his life is with the spouse.  Hence, there is no friend better than the wife/husband!
• The essence of all scriptures preaches one chosen ordinance—compassion.  If that is learnt and imbibed, there is no need for reading or chanting any religious/spiritual texts.  Whether one is literate in the various practices or not, if one can have compassion towards all beings just the same, his spiritual training has already excelled.
• One can have the best of comforts.  But, if he is imprisoned in the shackles of restraint, be it in a prison cell or inside the walls of a palatial mansion, he can't be happy!  The sense of liberation one feels in freedom is unsurpassed and all beings long for that complete freedom always.
• A householder's stage of life has been deemed the best of all stages of life!  The technical definition of a gṛhastha (householder) is a person who is married and is undertaking the responsibilities of the family.  Why is this stage considered the best of all stages in life?  It is because he is in the prime years of his life.  His schooling is complete, his body is hale and healthy, and his children and elders alike look for support from him.  He is the one who helps sustain all the other 3 stages of life in society, namely—student-hood; retirement; old age.

Nothing equals the happiness of the person who performs his deeds to the best of his abilities and knows the value of these privileges when he has them.

pada vigrahaH:
न भार्यया समं मित्रं न च धर्मः दया-समः ।
na bhāryayā samaṃ mitraṃ na ca dharmaḥ dayā-samaḥ ।

न स्वातन्त्र्य-समं सौख्यं गार्हस्थ्यात् न आश्रमः वरः ॥
na svātantrya-samaṃ saukhyaṃ gārhasthyāt na āśramaḥ varaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
na bhaaryayaa samaM mitraM na cha dharmo dayaasamaH ।
na svaatantryasamaM saukhyaM gaarhasthyaannaashramo varaH ॥
- padmapuraaNa

na bhaaryayaa samaM mitraM na cha dharmaH dayaa-samaH ।
na svaatantrya-samaM saukhyaM gaarhasthyaat na aashramaH varaH॥

September 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दशकूपसमा वापी दशवापीसमो ह्रदः  ।
दशह्रदसमः पुत्रः दशपुत्रसमो द्रुमः ॥  
- मत्स्यपुराण

Transliteration:
daśakūpasamā vāpī daśavāpīsamo hradaḥ ।
daśahradasamaḥ putraḥ daśaputrasamo drumaḥ ॥
- matsyapurāṇa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A pond is equal to ten wells.  A dansk of water (reservoir) is worth ten (such) ponds.  (Then again) ten (such) reservoirs are the same as a son (offspring).  (Whereas) a tree is equal to ten (such) sons.

Commentary:

Water is an integral part of life's existence. In fact, humanity has sent spaceships to distant celestial bodies solely to detect the presence of water. Where there is water, there is life. Naturally, a water well becomes an invaluable resource for all living beings. A water well, after all, represents a small but vital body of water. Yet, a single pond can be considered equivalent to ten such wells, and the water from ten ponds can easily be contained in a reservoir.

Even so, a good, cultured, and educated son is considered far more valuable than even ten reservoirs. This is because a son fulfills his parents’ deep longing for progeny and carries forward their lineage. Yet, surprisingly, there is something that can far exceed the value of even ten such sons—and that is a tree.

Why is this so? How can a single tree be more valuable than 10 sons, 100 reservoirs, 1,000 ponds, or even 10,000 wells? The answer lies in the tree's unparalleled ability to sustain life. Over its lifetime, a tree attracts rain-bearing clouds that provide water surpassing the combined capacity of all those wells, ponds, and reservoirs.

But what about the role of a son? While a son may bring joy to his own family and continue the family line, a tree’s contributions extend far beyond the immediate. A tree serves countless beings selflessly. A person who plants a seedling today may never live to enjoy its fruit or shade, yet that act of planting holds profound significance. The fruits of the tree will one day nourish birds, animals, and humans alike. The tree will bring rain clouds, quenching the thirst of future generations. It will provide shade to the weary and shelter to many creatures. By planting a sapling, one performs an act of service that benefits countless beings, often unknowingly.

Even more remarkable, a tree’s legacy outlives the planter and his descendants. For generations, it continues to serve by offering fruit, water, shade, and shelter. It is for this reason that a tree is considered more valuable than so many sons and water bodies combined.

Now, consider the impact of cutting down a tree. By felling one tree, we metaphorically destroy the equivalent of countless sons and dry up innumerable sources of water. It is an act of immeasurable loss.

It has been said that trees are the best antiques and that groves were God’s first temples. Let us strive to protect these timeless temples now and always.

pada vigrahaH:
दश-कूप-समा वापी दश-वापी-समो ह्रदः  ।
daśa-kūpa-samā vāpī daśa-vāpī-samo hradaḥ ।

दश-ह्रद-समः पुत्रः दश-पुत्र-समः द्रुमः ॥
daśa-hrada-samaḥ putraḥ daśa-putra-samaḥ drumaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
dashakUpasamaa vaapI dashavaapIsamo hradaH  ।
dashahradasamaH putraH dashaputrasamo drumaH ॥
- matsyapuraaNa

dasha-kUpa-samaa vaapI dasha-vaapI-samo hradaH ।

dasha-hrada-samaH putraH dasha-putra-samaH drumaH ॥

February 18th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अयं निजः परो वेति गणना लघुचेतसाम् ।
उदारचरितानां तु वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम् ॥
- हितोपदेश, सन्धि

Transliteration:
ayaṃ nijaḥ paro veti gaṇanā laghucetasām ।
udāracaritānāṃ tu vasudhaiva kuṭumbakam ॥
- hitopadeśa, sandhi

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Those with petty minds account thus—this is mine and that is his.  Certainly, for the ones with an exalted life, the whole world is itself a family! 

Commentary:

When one considers something or someone as a part of his family, he does everything in his power to make sure he/she is safe, protected, and loved.  However, when one has a demarcation of 'this (person) is my family, that (person) is his family', unconditional love disappears!

When a person identifies himself with anyone or anything, his approach towards that person/object becomes gentle and loving.  For example, he will even be willing to forget and forgive any misdeeds done by that person.  Why?  Because he has a soft corner in his heart for the loved one! He fights for the well-being of that person with all his strength, justifying that 'it is not a crime to fight for what is mine!'  So, if one has embraced the whole world as his, he will automatically work towards the betterment of each and everyone in it!  He identifies himself to a broader spectrum.

On the contrary, petty-minded people mark their boundaries and are not open-minded.  They do not stretch their visions.  Even though they do the same things such as loving, protecting, and safeguarding their own units of family, their lives, minds, and visions still remain petty.  This deters them from growing magnanimously in both their attitude and approach.

People could live their lives exceedingly peacefully if the words 'mine and thine' are taken away from the equation, isn't it!!  No pomp, no show.  Only genuine thoughts for the welfare of all! Why not try for a more quiet, peaceful, satisfactory, and joyful life for everyone around us?!

pada vigrahaH:
अयं निजः परः वा इति गणना लघु-चेतसाम् ।
ayaṃ nijaḥ paraḥ vā iti gaṇanā laghu-cetasām ।

उदार-चरितानां तु वसुधा एव कुटुम्बकम् ॥
udāra-caritānāṃ tu vasudhā eva kuṭumbakam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ayaM nijaH paro veti gaNanaa laghuchetasaam ।
udaaracharitaanaaM tu vasudhaiva kuTumbakam ॥
- hitopadesha, sandhi

ayaM nijaH paraH vaa iti gaNanaa laghu-chetasaam ।

udaara-charitaanaaM tu vasudhaa eva kuTumbakam ॥

February 12th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सन्तुष्टो भार्यया भर्ता भर्त्रा भार्या तथैव च ।
यस्मिन्नेव कुले नित्यं कल्याणं तत्र वै ध्रुवम् ॥
- मनुस्मृति

Transliteration:
santuṣṭo bhāryayā bhartā bhartrā bhāryā tathaiva ca ।
yasminneva kule nityaṃ kalyāṇaṃ tatra vai dhruvam ॥
- manusmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

In a family where the wife delights in her husband and the husband is also elated with his wife, only there (resides) prosperity—(this) is irrefutable! 

Commentary:

True prosperity is an abundance of happiness and a peaceful existence, not wealth.

When the ambiance is conducive to a calm mind each person in the family will have the mindset to reach their fullest potential!  Instead, if the energies of the husband and wife are consumed and drained by mundane indifferences, they would lack the time and stamina to pursue their passions.  In the meantime, the rest of the family will lose motivation to explore their own interests too.

How is a happy ambiance created? Who plays a key role in embedding this atmosphere into the daily lives of everyone in the family? It is the husband and wife, the two main pillars of the household. When they are at peace with each other, when they take joy in each other’s company, and when they cherish their bond, the entire household thrives. This doesn’t mean there are no small disagreements or moments of tension along the way. In fact, it is these minor struggles that add flavor to the journey. Yet, they have learned to find joy in one another despite these hurdles!  

The poet says, that in such a household where conflicts are minimal, there is: peace and prosperity, laughter and love, joy and jubilation!  May this joy be bestowed generously and showered abundantly on all.

pada vigrahaH:
सन्तुष्टो भार्यया भर्ता भर्त्रा भार्या तथ एव च ।

santuṣṭo bhāryayā bhartā bhartrā bhāryā tatha eva ca ।

यस्मिन् एव कुले नित्यं कल्याणं तत्र वै ध्रुवम् ॥
yasmin eva kule nityaṃ kalyāṇaṃ tatra vai dhruvam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
santuShTo bhaaryayaa bhartaa bhartraa bhaaryaa tathaiva cha ।
yasminneva kule nityaM kalyaaNaM tatra vai dhruvam ॥
- manusmRuti

santuShTo bhaaryayaa bhartaa bhartraa bhaaryaa tatha eva cha ।

yasmin eva kule nityaM kalyaaNaM tatra vai dhruvam ॥

January 14th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
तिलवत् स्निग्धं मनोऽस्तु वाण्यां गुडवन्माधुर्यम्
तिलगुडलड्‍डुकवत् सम्बन्धेऽस्तु सुवृत्तत्त्वम् ।
अस्तु विचारे शुभसङ्क्रमणं मङ्गलाय यशसे
कल्याणी सङ्क्रान्तिरस्तु वः सदाहमाशंसे ॥

Transliteration:
tilavat snigdhaṃ mano'stu vāṇyāṃ guḍavanmādhuryam
tilaguḍalaḍ‍ḍukavat sambandhe'stu suvṛttattvam ।
astu vicāre śubhasaṅkramaṇaṃ maṅgalāya yaśase
kalyāṇī saṅkrāntirastu vaḥ sadāhamāśaṃse ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

May the mind be affectionate like sesame seeds, may there be sweetness in your words like in jaggery. May there be goodness in your relations as in the union of sesame and jaggery in a laddoo. May there be a concurrence towards auspicious glory in your thoughts. I always wish that the festival of Saṅkrānti proves to be blessed and auspicious for one and for all.

Commentary:

Saṅkrānti, the festival of harvest, is celebrated when the axis of the Sun enters the zodiac sign Capricorn (Makara).  Hence it is also referred to as 'Makara Saṅkrānti'.  Saṅkrānti literally means—proceeding well (samyak krānti iti saṅkrānti). People from all walks of life celebrate this festival.  It marks the end of winter and the beginning of the harvest season. Farmers especially celebrate with great fervor, gathering new crops. 

Celebration of crops and harvest is synonymous with the Sun. He is the basic originator of the entire food chain, meaning without Him, there would be no source of energy for plants. Without plant sources, there would be no energy transmission to the herbivores and in turn, to the carnivores.  Hence, the Sun—the very sustenance for every life on Earth—is worshiped and thanked on this day.

Many people throw away old clothes and buy new ones to mark the beginning of good times.  Sharing til-guḍ—a mixture of sesame seeds and jaggery—is customary among many who celebrate this festival.  The combination of til-guḍ is not only tongue-tickling, and enticing, it is harmonious as well.  The poet beautifully wishes that kind of allure into the spoken words and relationships for everyone!  When there is harmony in the mind, thoughts, actions, and words, there is no stopping the unbound happiness one can attain.  What better can one wish for his near and dear ones!

May the Sun radiate health, happiness, and harmony into the lives of everyone, always!

P.S: Saṅkrānti, is celebrated on January 14th while occasionally, it falls on the 15th of January.  Unlike many festivals that follow the lunar calendar, this is one of the few festivals that follows the solar axis.  Hence the date doesn't change much with every year. 

pada vigrahaH:
तिलवत् स्निग्धं मनः अस्तु वाण्यां गुडवत् माधुर्यम्
tilavat snigdhaṃ manaḥ astu vāṇyāṃ guḍavat mādhuryam

तिल-गुड-लड्‍डुकवत् सम्बन्धे अस्तु सु-वृत्तत्त्वम् ।
tila-guḍa-laḍ‍ḍukavat sambandhe astu su-vṛttattvam ।

अस्तु विचारे शुभ-सङ्क्रमणं मङ्गलाय यशसे
astu vicāre śubha-saṅkramaṇaṃ maṅgalāya yaśase

कल्याणी सङ्क्रान्तिः अस्तु वः सदा अहम् आशंसे ॥
kalyāṇī saṅkrāntiḥ astu vaḥ sadā aham āśaṃse ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
tilavat snigdhaM mano.stu vaaNyaaM guDavanmaadhuryam
tilaguDalaDDukavat sambandhe.stu suvRuttattvaM ।
astu vichAre shubhasankramaNaM ma~ngalaaya yashase
kalyaaNI sa~nkraantirastu vaH sadaahamaashaMse ॥

tilavat snigdhaM manaH astu vaaNyaaM guDavat maadhuryam

tila-guDa-laDDukavat sambandhe astu su-vRuttattvaM ।

astu vichAre shubha-sa~nkramaNaM ma~ngalaaya yashase

kalyaaNI sa~nkrAntiH astu vaH sadaa aham aashaMse ॥

September 14th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
वैद्यानां शारदी माता पिता च कुसुमाकरः ।
यमदम्ष्ट्रा स्वसा प्रोक्ता हितभुक् मितभुक् रिपुः ॥

Transliteration:
vaidyānāṃ śāradī mātā pitā ca kusumākaraḥ ।
yamadamṣṭrā svasā proktā hitabhuk mitabhuk ripuḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

For a doctor, Autumn is the mother, and Spring is the father. Winter is said to be the sister. One who eats suitable and measured portions is his enemy!

Commentary:

When does one go to a doctor? When he is sick. A doctor earns his living because sick people come to him. People fall sick easily when the weather gets cold or fluctuates constantly, like in autumn, spring, and winter. That is pretty much the whole year.  We see that except during summer, people do get sick often!  

Kith and kin come to the aid of a person's prosperity. Likewise, winter, autumn, and spring assist a doctor in keeping his practice alive (by getting people sick)! Hence, the poet humorously says these seasons are like family to him.  

On the contrary, the poet proceeds to say that he who eats suitable food in limited portions is an enemy to a doctor! No matter what season, such a person will not require medical attention. Such a person will stay fit and healthy, and won't need to see a doctor often.  Isn't it enemies who curtail the growth and prosperity of another person! So, the poet quips that such a person is a doctor's enemy!

Moral of the story: Eat healthy and eat within limits.  This will help in staying away from a doctor.  It is the biggest open secret to good health! Simply, by being conscious and aware of what is going into the mouth, one can keep illnesses at bay.

He who has health has hope. He who has hope has everything! May everyone have everything!

pada vigrahaH:
वैद्यानां शारदी माता पिता च कुसुमाकरः ।
vaidyānāṃ śāradī mātā pitā ca kusumākaraḥ ।

यम-दम्ष्ट्रा स्वसा प्रोक्ता हितभुक् मितभुक् रिपुः ॥
yama-damṣṭrā svasā proktā hitabhuk mitabhuk ripuḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
vaidyaanaaM shaaradI maataa pitaa cha kusumaakaraH ।
yamadamShTraa svasaa proktaa hitabhuk mitabhuk ripuH ॥

vaidyaanaaM shaaradI maataa pitaa cha kusumaakaraH ।

yama-damShTraa svasaa proktaa hitabhuk mitabhuk ripuH ॥

August 27th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
प्रातरुत्थानं युद्धं च संविभागं च बन्धुषु ।
स्वयमाक्रम्य भुक्तं च शिक्षेच्चत्वारि कुक्कुटात् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
prātarutthānaṃ yuddhaṃ ca saṃvibhāgaṃ ca bandhuṣu ।
svayamākramya bhuktaṃ ca śikṣeccatvāri kukkuṭāt ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Waking up in the morning, aggressiveness, sharing with kin, even seizing and feeding oneself—learn these 4 (attributes) from a rooster.

Commentary:

Waking up early, readiness to fight, sharing, and not ignoring one's needs—4 precious lessons anyone could use. A rooster possesses all of these!

• Waking up early not only keeps one healthy and alert, but also gives more time to undertake productive tasks throughout the day. Who doesn't want an extra hour to finish up the day's chores? The best way to do it is by waking up in the early hours of the morning.
• One needs to have faith in himself and his beliefs. If need be, he should be able to defend himself. 'If need be' being instrumental. We are not talking about 'standing ready to fight for no good reason'. When one's rudimentary beliefs are being questioned, one should have the courage and confidence to stand up for himself. This is very essential.
• Whether it is a morsel of grain or a whole barn full, sharing with friends and family is more enticing than eating alone! Understanding this eliminates selfish motives. Be it food, knowledge, or resources—sharing makes anything more delectable.
• Paying attention to one’s own basic needs is just as important as sharing with others. Sharing is not an act of subservience, nor does it mean sacrificing everything while neglecting oneself. Prioritizing personal well-being fosters self-confidence, which can become a powerful driving force for future accomplishments.

Every being can be a source of learning. The uniqueness of each one makes them special and essential to the larger tapestry of creation. After all, the Creator would not have put effort into bringing that being into existence without a purpose!  

pada vigrahaH:
प्रातः उत्थानं युद्धं च संविभागं च बन्धुषु ।
prātaḥ utthānaṃ yuddhaṃ ca saṃvibhāgaṃ ca bandhuṣu ।

स्वयम् आक्रम्य भुक्तं च शिक्षेत् चत्वारि कुक्कुटात् ॥
svayam ākramya bhuktaṃ ca śikṣet catvāri kukkuṭāt ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
praatarutthaanaM yuddhaM cha saMvibhaagaM cha bandhuShu ।
svayamaakramya bhuktaM cha shikShechchatvaari kukkuTaat ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

praataH utthaanaM yuddhaM cha saMvibhaagaM cha bandhuShu ।

svayam aakramya bhuktaM cha shikShet chatvaari kukkuTaat ॥

August 18th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अर्थनाशं मनस्तापं गृहे दुश्चरितानि च ।
वञ्चनञ्चापमानञ्च मतिमान्न प्रकाशयेत् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
arthanāśaṃ manastāpaṃ gṛhe duścaritāni ca ।
vañcanañcāpamānañca matimānna prakāśayet ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Loss of wealth, mental anguish, misdemeanors in the house, deceit, and disgrace—prudent people do not elucidate (to the world). 

Commentary:

Add your joys, and subtract your sorrows. 

There is nothing to celebrate about grievances of the mind or losing wealth. No one is proud of misconduct in their family nor about the disgrace they may have faced. Talking about being deceived isn't a happy moment either!  Talking about these situations brings back memories of pain and adds to one's sorrow.

Prudent people do not invite unpleasant situations for themselves. Publicizing their issues brings on either shame or embarrassment. Neither of them is desired by anyone. The farsighted and judicious have this forethought and avoid facing it from the get-go!

These topics come up when one indulges in mindless gossip and puts himself in situations where he might embarrass himself! Being judicious with words and not speaking just to make a conversation is the best way.

The wise speak because they have something to say, whereas a fool speaks because he has to say something! Speak wisely.

pada vigrahaH:

अर्थ-नाशं मनस्-तापं गृहे दुश्चरितानि च ।
artha-nāśaṃ manas-tāpaṃ gṛhe duścaritāni ca ।

वञ्चनं च अपमानं च मतिमान् न प्रकाशयेत् ॥
vañcanaṃ ca apamānaṃ ca matimān na prakāśayet ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
arthanaashaM manastaapaM gRuhe dushcharitaani cha ।
va~nchana~nchaapamaana~ncha matimaanna prakaashayet ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

artha-naashaM manas-taapaM gRuhe dushcharitaani cha ।

va~nchanaM cha apamaanaM cha matimaan na prakaashayet ॥

July 29th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
वित्तेन रक्ष्यते धर्मः विद्या योगेन रक्ष्यते ।
मृदुना रक्ष्यते भूपः सत्स्त्रिया रक्ष्यते गृहम् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
vittena rakṣyate dharmaḥ vidyā yogena rakṣyate ।
mṛdunā rakṣyate bhūpaḥ satstriyā rakṣyate gṛham ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Virtue is protected by wealth; knowledge is guarded by practice; gentleness protects a king; a home is secured by an excellent lady.

Commentary:

Everyone and everything has a protector!

Wealth serves as the guardian of virtue. For example, performing acts of welfare for society is a virtue, and such actions often require wealth. Since wealth is used to uphold and promote dharma, it becomes a keeper of virtue.

Knowledge, or vidyā, is safeguarded through practice. Simply earning and accumulating knowledge isn’t enough; it must be applied and practiced daily. Without use, knowledge deteriorates, becoming rusty and ineffective. Thus, practice is the protector of knowledge.

Gentleness protects a king. This might seem unusual, but it holds true. Gentleness here refers to the king’s treatment of his subjects. By handling them with care and respect, he earns their loyalty and trust, minimizes internal enemies, and ensures a stable and enduring reign. A gentle demeanor is, therefore, the guardian of a king.

The most essential unit of society is the home, and its guardian is the lady of the house. She is the foundation, managing the family’s needs, instilling values, disciplining children, ensuring health, and maintaining harmony.

An intelligent woman imparts the right values to her children. A well-rounded woman nourishes her family with thoughtful choices. A level-headed woman prioritizes her household’s needs and keeps everyone balanced. Together, these qualities define her excellence and secure the home. She creates a safe haven, allowing everyone to thrive and be their best selves.

As the saying goes, “गृहिणी गृहमुच्यते” (gṛhiṇī gṛhamucyate)—the home is defined by the lady. It should be understood as “गृहम् उच्यते” (gṛham ucyate—upholds the house), not “गृहं मुच्यते” (gṛhaṃ mucyate—lets go of the household). A woman has the power to make or break a home—it is truly in her hands!

pada vigrahaH:

वित्तेन रक्ष्यते धर्मः विद्या योगेन रक्ष्यते ।
vittena rakṣyate dharmaḥ vidyā yogena rakṣyate ।

मृदुना रक्ष्यते भूपः सत्-स्त्रिया रक्ष्यते गृहम् ॥
mṛdunā rakṣyate bhūpaḥ sat-striyā rakṣyate gṛham ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
vittena rakShyate dharmaH vidyaa yogena rakShyate ।
mRudunaa rakShyate bhUpaH satstriyaa rakShyate gRuham ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

vittena rakShyate dharmaH vidyaa yogena rakShyate ।

mRudunaa rakShyate bhUpaH sat-striyaa rakShyate gRuham ॥

July 9th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अर्था गृहे निवर्तन्ते श्मशाने मित्रबान्धवाः ।
सुकृतं दुष्कृतं चैव गच्छन्तमनुगच्छति ॥
- महाभारत

Transliteration:
arthā gṛhe nivartante śmaśāne mitrabāndhavāḥ ।
sukṛtaṃ duṣkṛtaṃ caiva gacchantamanugacchati ॥
- mahābhārata

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Wealth gets left behind at home, friends, and family at the crematorium. (But) the good and bad deeds go behind the going (departed jīva (soul)).

Commentary:

While passing on from this world, a being leaves behind all his possessions. His material possessions are the first to be dropped. They do not even accompany him to the crematorium. They are left inside the threshold of the house itself!

His near and dear ones can come only so far. Till they carry him to the crematorium. Once their job is done, they return home as well!

After that, in his lonely onward journey, the only companions are his own good AND bad deeds. There is no escape from them. Whether one likes it or not, his vices and virtues will certainly follow him and bear their fruit!

If one wants enjoyable company for his onward journey, he better start working while here on Earth! With good company, setbacks will be minimal and the path will be pleasant.

pada vigrahaH:

अर्थाः गृहे निवर्तन्ते श्मशाने मित्र-बान्धवाः ।
arthāḥ gṛhe nivartante śmaśāne mitra-bāndhavāḥ ।

सुकृतं दुष्कृतं च एव गच्छन्तम् अनुगच्छति ॥
sukṛtaṃ duṣkṛtaṃ ca eva gacchantam anugacchati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
arthaa gRuhe nivartante shmashaane mitrabaandhavaaH ।
sukRutaM duShkRutaM chaiva gachChantamanugachChati ॥
- mahaabhaarata

arthaaH gRuhe nivartante shmashaane mitra-baandhavaaH ।

sukRutaM duShkRutaM cha eva gachChantam anugachChati ॥

June 22nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
मूर्खा यत्र न पूज्यन्ते धान्यं यत्र सुसञ्चितम् ।
दाम्पत्ये कलहो नास्ति तत्र श्रीः स्वयमागता ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
mūrkhā yatra na pūjyante dhānyaṃ yatra susañcitam ।
dāmpatye kalaho nāsti tatra śrīḥ svayamāgatā ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

(In a place) where the foolish are not revered, where grain is collected abundantly, where there is no strife in the marriage—wealth comes by itself.

Commentary:

Where does wealth accumulate? Where there is prosperity! 

Where is prosperity? In places where:

• the foolish are not revered! This means places where knowledge and education are valued. There is an avenue for intellectual growth and maybe because of the ambiance, even the foolish get an opportunity to turn a new leaf!
• the grain is collected abundantly! When everyone is fed and content, most trouble is warded off. Many crimes happen due to a scarcity of food. When there is an abundance of grain, prosperity is the next step. It also means there is no squandering and there is prudence in spending.  Also, saving for a rainy day is a given priority.
• no strife in marriage! A family is the basic unit of any society with the man and lady of the house being the lead roles in the household. A constant rift between them will take a toll on their responsibilities toward their children and their education... pretty much everything important gets impacted! When these essential aspects are compromised, how can prosperity be expected?! Harmony between a husband and wife is reflected in the atmosphere of the household.

In a place where these 3 points are given priority, prosperity will automatically follow! Any person who contributes to prosperity will prosper in turn!

pada vigrahaH:
मूर्खाः यत्र न पूज्यन्ते धान्यं यत्र सुसञ्चितम् ।
mūrkhāḥ yatra na pūjyante dhānyaṃ yatra susañcitam ।

दाम्पत्ये कलहो न अस्ति तत्र श्रीः स्वयम् आगता ॥
dāmpatye kalaho na asti tatra śrīḥ svayam āgatā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
mUrkhaa yatra na pUjyante dhaanyaM yatra susa~nchitam ।
daampatye kalaho naasti tatra shrIH svayamaagataa ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

mUrkhaaH yatra na pUjyante dhaanyaM yatra susa~nchitam ।

daampatye kalaho na asti tatra shrIH svayam aagataa ॥

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 ॥

June 12th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
कस्य दोषः कुले नास्ति व्याधिना को न पीडितः ।
व्यसनं केन न प्राप्‍तं कस्य सौख्यं निरन्तरम् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
kasya doṣaḥ kule nāsti vyādhinā ko na pīḍitaḥ ।
vyasanaṃ kena na prāp‍taṃ kasya saukhyaṃ nirantaram ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Whose clan is blemishless? Who is never afflicted by a disease? Who has never attained adversity?  Whose happiness is unbroken?

Commentary:

The sore thumb of the family; one odd button; the black sheep of the family—all families have one such person, whom others want to hide in the closet! When everyone has someone like that in their own families, why be embarrassed about the one in your family?

There is no one who is in perfect health. At some point or the other, everyone would have suffered one health issue or another. Only beings are afflicted by diseases, not a log! It is a part and parcel of being a 'living' being.

In the entire world, can anyone find a person who has never seen any adversity in life? If he has seen no adversity, then, he has lived no life at all! Only when one sees hard times, does he truly appreciate and enjoy the value of all the blessings he has been bestowed with.

Extending the same argument, no one has never seen good times in life at all! Along with that, comes the uncertainty of that pleasant time as well. There are no guarantees smooth sailing will continue forever. His ocean will be ruffled and the waves will become turbulent.  This will make his ship wobble at one time or another.

Things happen beyond our control  That is the time to remember, 'Whatever makes you a little uncomfortable is the biggest opportunity for growth'.  

Change is the only constant thing! Change alone, isn't changing. Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional! Why fret about shortcomings or cling on to possessions then? Neither is permanent!

pada vigrahaH:
कस्य दोषः कुले नास्ति व्याधिना कः न पीडितः ।
kasya doṣaḥ kule nāsti vyādhinā kaḥ na pīḍitaḥ ।

व्यसनं केन न प्राप्‍तं कस्य सौख्यं निरन्तरम् ॥
vyasanaṃ kena na prāp‍taṃ kasya saukhyaṃ nirantaram ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kasya doShaH kule naasti vyaadhinaa ko na pIDitaH ।
vyasanaM kena na praaptaM kasya soukhyaM nirantaram ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

kasya doShaH kule naasti vyaadhinaa kaH na pIDitaH ।

vyasanaM kena na praaptaM kasya soukhyaM nirantaram ॥

May 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
न कुलं वृत्तहीनस्य प्रमाणमिति मे मतिः ।
अन्तेष्वपि हि जातानां वृत्तमेव विशिष्यते ॥
- महाभारत, उद्योगपर्व


Transliteration:
na kulaṃ vṛttahīnasya pramāṇamiti me matiḥ ।
anteṣvapi hi jātānāṃ vṛttameva viśiṣyate ॥
- mahābhārata, udyogaparva

Meaning of the subhAShita:

In my opinion, the attestation for a person of low character is not his clan. Even for someone born of a lowly lineage—his conduct is more distinctive.

Commentary:

People are constantly judged and scrutinized in society. They are judged on all grounds starting from their lineage to their attire.

But the poet clearly says, in his opinion any person must be classified mainly according to his conduct, irrespective of his birth in a family of higher or lower order (as per definitions of the society). 

Just because one is born into a reputed family (higher clan) it will not establish his character.  A person's conduct comes from his value base, not his birth. What he has learnt along the way and what he has come to respect says a lot more about him as a human being. These thoughts and values differentiate him from others as either good or bad.  That makes him a human of higher quality! 

Quality is—presence of values not absence of mistakes. Value the values in a person, not his background.

pada vigrahaH:
न कुलं वृत्त-हीनस्य प्रमाणम् इति मे मतिः ।
na kulaṃ vṛtta-hīnasya pramāṇam iti me matiḥ ।

अन्तेषु अपि हि जातानां वृत्तम् एव विशिष्यते ॥
anteṣu api hi jātānāṃ vṛttam eva viśiṣyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
na kulaM vRuttahInasya pramaaNamiti me matiH ।
anteShvapi hi jaataanaaM vRuttameva vishiShyate ॥
- mahaabhaarata, udyogaparva

na kulaM vRutta-hInasya pramaaNam iti me matiH ।

anteShu api hi jaataanaaM vRuttam eva vishiShyate ॥

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 ॥