October 31st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

विद्यार्थी सेवकः पान्थः क्षुधाऽर्तो भयकातरः ।

भाण्डारी प्रतिहारी च सप्त सुप्तान् प्रबोधयेत् ॥

- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:

vidyārthī sevakaḥ pānthaḥ kṣudhā'rto bhayakātaraḥ ।

bhāṇḍārī pratihārī ca sapta suptān prabodhayet ॥

- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A student, a servant, a traveler, one famished with hunger, one who is scared, one who is the safe-keeper of the storehouse, and a watchman—if sleeping, these 7 must be woken up. 

Commentary:

Sleeping on the job doesn't suit anyone.  However, sleepers in certain roles are required to be awakened without any delay.  The wisdom embedded in this verse highlights the essential nature of responsibility and the urgency of these roles in the greater scheme of life.

The Student: A student in slumber is akin to a mind lying dormant, missing the opportunity to absorb and cultivate wisdom. Awakening the student means stirring the intellect and ensuring his learning does not stop. 

The Servant: When a servant sleeps, the work that needs to be done goes unattended. A servant’s role is vital to maintaining balance and harmony, and his slumber is a lapse in the steady rhythm of life.

The Traveler: Life is a journey, and every traveler has a destination. When he is supposed to be traveling, a traveler who is sleepy is not progressing on his path. This reminds us that being alert on the journey is just as significant as the destination itself. 

The Famished One: Hunger is a primal force that demands immediate attention; it cannot be left unattended. Awakening the famished person is a call to acknowledge our needs—whether for food, love, care, or connection—and to address them with urgency. 

The Scared One: The fearful one is caught in the paralyzing grip of anxiety, hesitation, or uncertainty. To awaken the scared one means to awaken courage—the ability to face the unknown, step into discomfort, and act despite fear. 

The Safe-Keeper of the Storehouse: This individual has the responsibility to ensure that valuable resources are protected, preserved, and distributed as needed. If he falls asleep, everything he is safeguarding is at risk. Sleep, in this case, represents neglect or apathy toward his role and hence he needs to be awakened. 

The Watchman: The watchman stands as the first line of defense, and must be ever alert and aware of potential dangers. A sleeping watchman exposes the vulnerable to harm. He has to be watchful of what may threaten society and hence needs to be awakened.

In essence, these seven figures represent different facets of human temperaments: intellect, duty, purpose, need, courage, protection, and vigilance. When any of these aspects fall into a state of dormancy, life becomes disordered. We must awaken them from slumber, not just to survive, but to thrive.

pada vigrahaH:

विद्यार्थी सेवकः पान्थः क्षुधा-आर्तः भय-कातरः ।

vidyārthī sevakaḥ pānthaḥ kṣudhā-ārtaḥ bhaya-kātaraḥ ।

भाण्डारी प्रतिहारी च सप्त सुप्तान् प्रबोधयेत् ॥

bhāṇḍārī pratihārī ca sapta suptān prabodhayet ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

vidyaarthI sevakaH paanthaH kShudhaa'rto bhayakaataraH ।

bhANDaarI pratihaarI ca sapta suptaan prabodhayet ॥

- chaaNakya neeti

vidyaarthI sevakaH paanthaH kShudhaa-aartaH bhaya-kaataraH ।

bhANDaarI pratihaarI ca sapta suptaan prabodhayet ॥

October 11th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

वृद्धकाले मृता भार्या बन्धुहस्तगतं धनम् ।

भोजनं च पराधीनं तिस्रः पुंसां विडम्बनाः ॥ 

- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
vṛddhakāle mṛtā bhāryā bandhuhastagataṃ dhanam ।

bhojanaṃ ca parādhīnaṃ tisraḥ puṃsāṃ viḍambanāḥ ॥

- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Losing a wife in old age, wealth that has gone into the hands of relatives, and dependence on others for food—these 3 are distressing for a man.  

Commentary:

A spouse's love is indeed stronger than death. Though she may depart from this earth, she never leaves his heart. For a man, carrying on with life after her loss becomes a torment beyond words. Men are not known for expressing their emotions openly, but over the years, they grow reliant on their wives as their emotional anchors. In old age, when this trusted source of support vanishes, it shakes the very foundation of their being. The silence left behind is unbearable, and navigating life without her feels like walking through a storm without shelter.

A wealthy man is never without company. Like bees drawn to honey, relatives gather around him, eager to secure favor and fortune. They sing his praises not from love, but from greed. Trusting one’s wealth to such kin is like throwing pearls into a pit—once deceived, reclaiming what is lost becomes an uphill battle, almost nearly impossible.

Cooking a meal is more than a mere task—it is an act of love, an offering of care. True nurturing means serving food without waiting to be asked, and with affection in every gesture. However, when a man finds himself dependent on others for such simple acts, it wounds his spirit. It strikes at the very heart of his independence, and the helplessness stings like a thorn in his soul. Forced reliance turns to bitterness, and the bitterness ferments into anger, only deepening his distress.

May no man find himself stranded in these waters—grieving alone, betrayed by those he trusts, or begging for food to soothe his hunger. May life spare him such agony.

pada vigrahaH:

वृद्ध-काले मृता भार्या बन्धु-हस्त-गतं धनम् ।

vṛddha-kāle mṛtā bhāryā bandhu-hasta-gataṃ dhanam ।

भोजनं च पर-अधीनं तिस्रः पुंसां विडम्बनाः ॥ 

bhojanaṃ ca para-adhīnaṃ tisraḥ puṃsāṃ viḍambanāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

vRuddhakaale mRutaa bhaaryaa bandhuhastagataM dhanam |

bhojanaM cha paraadheenaM tisraH puMsaaM viDambanaaH ||

- chaaNakya neeti

vRuddha-kaale mRutaa bhaaryaa bandhu-hasta-gataM dhanam |

bhojanaM cha para-adheenaM tisraH puMsaaM viDambanaaH ||

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 ॥

September 13th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
रिक्तपाणिर्नपश्येत राजानं दैवतं गुरुम् ।
दैवज्ञं पुत्रकं मित्रं फलेन फलमादिशेत्॥
Transliteration:
riktapāṇirnapaśyeta rājānaṃ daivataṃ gurum ।
daivajñaṃ putrakaṃ mitraṃ phalena phalamādiśet॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Do not go empty-handed to see a king, God, a teacher, an astrologer, a child, or a friend. Invoke fruitfulness with fruit!

Commentary:

There is always a purpose behind visiting someone—it could be love, reverence, devotion, affection, or even fear. Without purpose, one wouldn’t endure the effort or inconvenience of a visit. To make such a visit meaningful, why not begin with a thoughtful gesture? For instance, bringing fruit to offer symbolizes goodwill and respect.

When visiting a king, a deity at a temple, a teacher, an astrologer, a child, or a friend, it is a gracious practice to bring something along. Arriving empty-handed to such places and occasions is often seen as unconventional and uncustomary. Bringing a token of thoughtfulness demonstrates that you cared enough to consider the person even before meeting them. This simple act of consideration can bring happiness to the recipient. Whether it’s a fruit, flower, dish, or snack, the gesture matters more than the gift itself.

A gift should be chosen with care—suiting the recipient—and offered with respect. A wise person values the love and intention behind a gift far more than its material value. Indeed, the way a gift is given carries greater significance than the gift itself.

When giving, give with thoughtfulness. When receiving, embrace the thoughtfulness of the giver!

pada vigrahaH:
रिक्त-पाणिः न पश्येत राजानं दैवतं गुरुम् ।
rikta-pāṇiḥ na paśyeta rājānaṃ daivataṃ gurum ।

दैवज्ञं पुत्रकं मित्रं फलेन फलम् आदिशेत् ॥
daivajñaṃ putrakaṃ mitraṃ phalena phalam ādiśet ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
riktapaaNirnapashyeta raajaanaM daivataM gurum ।
daivaj~naM putrakaM mitraM phalena phalamaadishet ॥

rikta-paaNiH na pashyeta raajaanaM daivataM gurum ।

daivaj~naM putrakaM mitraM phalena phalam aadishet ॥

August 16th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
स्वर्गस्थितानामिह जीवलोके चत्वारि चिह्नानि वसन्ति देहे ।
दानप्रसङ्गो मधुरा च वाणी देवार्चनं ब्राह्मणतर्पणं च ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
svargasthitānāmiha jīvaloke catvāri cihnāni vasanti dehe ।
dānaprasaṅgo madhurā ca vāṇī devārcanaṃ brāhmaṇatarpaṇaṃ ca ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

There are 4 signs of a person in heaven even while living in this world—giving, pleasant words, worshipping the Lord, and satiating (the hunger) of a vidvān (learned person).

Commentary:

It is in one's own hands to make life a living hell or heaven. One doesn't have to wait to pass on to see heaven. His life can be as blissful as being in heaven if he inculcates these 4 attributes—

• Giving—Sometimes a small thing given can mean everything in someone's life! True giving is when you give your all and yet feel like it is nothing! These are truly blissful feelings.
• Pleasant words—Words are the keys to another's heart. Someone was asked, “If someone were to pay you 10 coins for every kind word you ever spoke and collect 5 coins for every unkind word, would you be rich or poor?” Blessed are those who measure rich on this scale!
• Worshiping the Lord—When every action is an offering to the Lord, there is nothing much one needs to do after that. He is just as close to God as he would be in heaven.
• Satiating the hunger of a vidvān (learned one)—Why specifically a vidvān? Why should his hunger be satisfied? In the olden days, Brāhmaṇas held the responsibility of giving knowledge to people. They would roam from place to place propagating their learning and would not be equipped to make their own meals at home. So satiating their hunger means contributing to the propagation of knowledge! A person who feeds them does his share in contributing to society and hence is happy.

It is not about going to heaven after passing on, but living in heaven here and now! A person involved in these 4 kinds of actions is in virtual heaven. His mind is as happy as being in heaven!

Find your own heaven. Do good, feel good!

pada vigrahaH:
स्वर्ग-स्थितानाम् इह जीव-लोके चत्वारि चिह्नानि वसन्ति देहे ।
svarga-sthitānām iha jīva-loke catvāri cihnāni vasanti dehe ।

दान-प्रसङ्गः मधुरा च वाणी देव-अर्चनं ब्राह्मण-तर्पणं च ॥
dāna-prasaṅgaḥ madhurā ca vāṇī deva-arcanaṃ brāhmaṇa-tarpaṇaṃ ca ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
svargasthitaanaamiha jIvaloke chatvaari chihnaani vasanti dehe ।
daanaprasa~ngo madhuraa cha vaaNI devaarchanaM braahmaNatarpaNaM cha ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

svarga-sthitaanaam iha jIva-loke chatvaari chihnaani vasanti dehe ।

daana-prasa~ngaH madhuraa cha vaaNI deva-archanaM braahmaNa-tarpaNaM cha ॥

August 9th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
नाहारं चिन्तयेत् प्राज्ञः धर्ममेकं हि चिन्तयेत् ।
आहारो हि मनुष्याणां जन्मना सह जायते ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
nāhāraṃ cintayet prājñaḥ dharmamekaṃ hi cintayet ।
āhāro hi manuṣyāṇāṃ janmanā saha jāyate ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The wise do not think about food but reflect on dharma alone. (Because) food for beings is born along with them!

Commentary:

Human birth is a rare and precious gift, a blessing bestowed upon us for realizing the ultimate purpose of life—call it mokṣa, salvation, or liberation. This lofty goal can only be achieved by contemplating and living according to dharma. True nourishment for the soul comes from reflecting on righteousness, not merely feeding the body. Food for thought is as vital, if not more so, than food for sustenance.

The wise understand that the Lord, in His infinite wisdom, has already provided for every being. He sustains even the smallest frog hidden beneath a remote stone, ensuring that its nourishment is within reach. Why, then, should one excessively worry or hoard wealth and provisions to secure comfort for ten future generations? The Lord has placed sustenance in the very vicinity of every living creature—it comes as part of the grand design.

Thus, one need not be consumed by anxiety over fulfilling the body’s needs. Each being’s rightful share of sustenance is born alongside them. Instead, what truly warrants contemplation is the virtue of one’s actions. Are my deeds aligned with dharma? Am I walking the path of righteousness? Such reflections are far more enriching and transformative.

So, let us focus on offering food for thought, not just food for the body. A nourished mind and spirit elevate life far beyond mere existence, paving the way to the ultimate goal.

pada vigrahaH:
न अहारं चिन्तयेत् प्राज्ञः धर्मम् एकं हि चिन्तयेत् ।
na ahāraṃ cintayet prājñaḥ dharmam ekaṃ hi cintayet ।

आहारो हि मनुष्याणां जन्मना सह जायते ॥
āhāro hi manuṣyāṇāṃ janmanā saha jāyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
naahaaraM chintayet praaj~naH dharmamekaM hi chintayet ।
aahaaro hi manuShyaaNaaM janmanaa saha jaayate ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

na ahaaraM chintayet praaj~naH dharmam ekaM hi chintayet ।

aahaaro hi manuShyaaNaaM janmanaa saha jaayate ॥

July 12th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गन्धः सुवर्णे फलमिक्षुदण्डे
नाकारि पुष्पं खलु चन्दनस्य ।
विद्वान् धनाढ्यश्च नृपश्चिरायुः
धातुः पुरा कोऽपि न बुद्धिदोऽभूत् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
gandhaḥ suvarṇe phalamikṣudaṇḍe
nākāri puṣpaṃ khalu candanasya ।
vidvān dhanāḍhyaśca nṛpaścirāyuḥ
dhātuḥ purā ko'pi na buddhido'bhūt ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Fragrance in gold; fruit in sugarcane; big flowers too in sandalwood; an educated who is rich; a king who lives forever—(alas!) there were no counselors for the creator earlier!

Commentary:

This poet is giving ideas to the Creator (Brahma) which would have been nice additions to creation itself! Shouldn't He have created the world as this poet suggests?!

• Gold is precious and liked by most people. What if it came with a sweet fragrance?! One could smell the fragrance of their precious gold!
• Sugarcane is definitely sweet, but what if it bore edible fruit that carried its sweetness?! The sweetness would then be readily accessible to everyone rather than having to bite the fibers to extract its sweetness.
• Sandalwood retains fragrance for decades, but what if it bloomed beautiful big flowers bearing its sweet fragrance?! They would beautify a home even as they spread their aroma.
• Riches make one's life easy and comfortable. However, what if the educated person were bestowed with lots of wealth?! Hopefully, they would put their wealth to good use!  He would have the best of both worlds and hence an envious life.
• A good king is a rare find. What if such a leader lived forever?! There would be no worries for the future or unanticipated anarchy in the country.

The poet mournfully says, 'Alas! There weren't any intelligent people around Brahma to give proper counsel when he was creating the world.'

The world mentioned above would certainly be great!  But then, doesn't the Creator know what's best for everyone?! If everything was perfect and everyone had all their wishes granted, would there be any point in the existence of the world itself?! 

He will not put all the arrows in one quiver, meaning, He will not put all attributes into one object! He knows what is best and wants people to work with what is available.  It is as though His message is: "The world is not a utopia, but a reality!  Learn to live with imperfections!!"

One needs to appreciate anything for what it is, rather than count its shortcomings. One has to bring out the best of what there is and be content! That's what makes you a leader. 

pada vigrahaH:
गन्धः सुवर्णे फलम् इक्षुदण्डे
gandhaḥ suvarṇe phalam ikṣudaṇḍe

नाकारि पुष्पं खलु चन्दनस्य ।
nākāri puṣpaṃ khalu candanasya ।

विद्वान् धनाढ्यः च नृपः चिरायुः
vidvān dhanāḍhyaḥ ca nṛpaḥ cirāyuḥ

धातुः पुरा कः अपि न बुद्धिदः अभूत् ॥
dhātuḥ purā kaḥ api na buddhidaḥ abhūt ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
gandhaH suvarNe phalamikShudaNDe
naakaari puShpaM khalu chandanasya ।
vidvaan dhanaaDhyashcha nRupashchiraayuH
dhaatuH puraa ko.pi na buddhido.bhUt ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

gandhaH suvarNe phalam ikShudaNDe

naakaari puShpaM khalu chandanasya ।

vidvaan dhanaaDhyaH cha nRupaH chiraayuH

dhaatuH puraa kaH api na buddhidaH abhUt ॥

July 5th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
काकदृष्टिर्बकध्यानं श्वाननिद्रा तथैव च ।
अल्पाहारो जीर्णवस्त्रं च एतद्विद्यार्थिलक्षणम् ॥

Transliteration:
kākadṛṣṭirbakadhyānaṃ śvānanidrā tathaiva ca ।
alpāhāro jīrṇavastraṃ ca etadvidyārthilakṣaṇam ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

These are the characteristics of a student—the sight of a crow, the attention of a stork, the sleep of a dog, very little food, and worn-out clothes.

Commentary:

Pick the best traits from whoever or wherever it is! Just as every being has their own imperfections, they have a specific trait that they have mastered. A student, especially, needs to be on the lookout, constantly, to acquire the best qualities. Striving to be a student throughout one's life is the most blissful experience!

1. A crow in some respects, is considered the most basal of birds, but not in its skill for observation! It has very keen eyesight and nothing goes unobserved. That kind of cognizance is essential if one is interested in increasing his knowledge base and getting to the bottom of things.
2. A stork is popular for its attention. It can stand on one leg for hours on end without moving. It stands still in the water and waits patiently for fish to pass by. Since the stork is motionless, the fish are not warned by the stork's presence, and its patience gets rewarded. This kind of concentration should be learnt from the stork. Without concentration, a deeper understanding of any subject matter is impossible.
3. A dog is very easy to wake up. Even when it sleeps, it is very aware of its surroundings and is ready to jump up at the slightest stir. Also, when he wakes up, he doesn't sleepwalk drowsily. He is up with full attention! Such should be the alertness of a student. Excessive sleep leads only to waste of time and laziness. It is not proactive towards learning either.
4. Consuming too much food makes one feel heavy, lazy, and sleepy. Hence, a student is advised to consume food in small portions. It also prevents him from indulging himself in pleasing his palate, which can become another hindrance to learning.
5. Worn-out clothes (jīrṇavastraṃ), are emphasized for students. The reason is—if he wants his clothes to be new and updated with the latest trends, his time and energy get wastefully spent on acquiring those clothes, making sure he looks good with all other accessories that go with them, etc. When attention and dedication get diverted from the core subject and delve into unwanted interests.  Then, productivity in learning is anyone's guess!

Hence, the characteristics of a true student are defined as the above 5 traits. Like they say, 'Genius is 1% inspiration, 99% perspiration'. Vidyā (knowledge) never comes easily. One has to strive hard for it. If he adapts these traits then it will not seem like an effort anymore!

pada vigrahaH:
काक-दृष्टिः बक-ध्यानं श्वान-निद्रा तथा एव च ।
kāka-dṛṣṭiḥ baka-dhyānaṃ śvāna-nidrā tathā eva ca ।

अल्प-आहारो जीर्ण-वस्त्रं च एतत् विद्यार्थि-लक्षणम् ॥
alpa-āhāro jīrṇa-vastraṃ ca etat vidyārthi-lakṣaṇam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kaakadRuShTirbakadhyaanaM shvaananidraa tathaiva cha ।
alpaahaaro jIrNavastraM cha etadvidyaarthilakShaNam ॥

kaaka-dRuShTiH baka-dhyaanaM shvaana-nidraa tathaa eva cha ।

alpa-aahaaro jIrNa-vastraM cha etat vidyaarthi-lakShaNam ॥

June 21st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
जनिता चोपनेता च यस्तु विद्यां प्रयच्छति ।
अन्नदाता भयत्राता पञ्चैते पितरः स्मृताः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
janitā copanetā ca yastu vidyāṃ prayacchati ।
annadātā bhayatrātā pañcaite pitaraḥ smṛtāḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

These 5 are defined as fathers—one who gives birth; one who brings closer (to the Lord, and to spirituality, by initiating through the sacred thread ceremony); one who gives knowledge; one who gives food; one who protects from fear.

Commentary:

In the journey of life, one comes across many relationships that command respect for contributing towards their growth.

A 'father' is one such figure. He is an initiator, an invoker, and a propeller! At different stages of life, one comes across certain father figures who command the same respect as one's own birth father!

1. One who gave birth—is respectable for the very fact that he gave birth, then tended and nurtured the child, without whom the child would not exist.
2. 'upanetā'—literally means 'one who takes closer'. The context here is 'upanayana' (the sacred thread ceremony). The thread ceremony is the initiation of one's learning. That is the first step one takes toward a spiritual path in life. He who counsels or guides one towards that path is a father figure and is therefore revered.
3. He who gives knowledge—namely a preceptor, educates his pupil selflessly. To the best of his abilities, the teacher teaches a person right from wrong.  He equips him with the skill set essential for survival and prepares him for his onward journey of life. A father always wants his children to surpass him. Similarly, a true preceptor rejoices when his pupil excels him! Then, isn't he a respectable father figure as well?!
4. He who gives food—helps one survive! When one is hungry, no amount of wealth can satiate his appetite. One who offers food is giving him life! He is a father too.
5. He who protects from fear—quells one's insecurities and helps him overcome the hurdles of life. When one's fears are dispelled, he sees life in a new light! Such a person is deemed as a father.

A father is someone whom children look up to, no matter how tall they have grown. One cannot do anything to repay these fatherly figures. All one can do is, feel indebted to them and revere them all! There is nothing in this world that can be given to free ourselves from their debt. We can only pass on the legacy by being mentors ourselves to our children, pupils, or the society around us!

pada vigrahaH:
जनिता च उपनेता च यः तु विद्यां प्रयच्छति ।
janitā ca  ca yaḥ tu vidyāṃ prayacchati ।

अन्न-दाता भय-त्राता पञ्च एते पितरः स्मृताः ॥
anna-dātā bhaya-trātā pañca ete pitaraḥ smṛtāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
janitaa chopanetaa cha yastu vidyaaM prayachChati ।
annadaataa bhayatraataa pa~nchaite pitaraH smRutaaH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

janitaa cha upanetaa cha yaH tu vidyaaM prayachChati ।

anna-daataa bhaya-traataa pa~ncha ete pitaraH smRutaaH ॥

June 20th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
उपसर्गे अन्यचक्रे च दुर्भिक्षे च भयावहे ।
असाधुर्जनसंपर्के यः पलायति स जीवति ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
upasarge anyacakre ca durbhikṣe ca bhayāvahe ।
asādhurjanasaṃparke yaḥ palāyati sa jīvati ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

He who runs—in times of retreat, when in others' territory, in famine, in fear, or in association with evil-doers—survives.

Commentary:

It is rightly said, 'If you cannot walk away from negative people, try the next best thing—RUN!'

1. When the whole army is retreating, is it sane for a lone soldier to charge forward?
2. When one steps out of one's boundaries and lands on others' property, it is not a safe haven for him anymore.
3. In times of famine, if one cannot fend for himself and his family, what is the point of guarding the place?
4. When the opponent is much stronger and instills fear in the person, what is the point in marching on?  Upon coming face-to-face with a Lion, what if one says, 'I won't run away, because only cowards run?!'
5. Company of the evil—this one is the worst of all! It does no good in any which way. Knowing so, if one still hangs around just so others don't call him a coward, doesn't make any sense.

In all these circumstances, if one takes a step back or runs away (keeps away), it is not called 'cowardice', it is called 'common sense'.  Sometimes, taking that retreat is more appropriate than charging ahead.

Running away is not always cowardice, it is survival sometimes! So, survive!! :)

pada vigrahaH:
उपसर्गे अन्य-चक्रे च दुर्भिक्षे च भयावहे ।
upasarge anya-cakre ca durbhikṣe ca bhayāvahe ।

असाधुः जन-संपर्के यः पलायति सः जीवति ॥
asādhuḥ jana-saṃparke yaḥ palāyati saḥ jīvati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
upasarge anyachakre cha durbhikShe cha bhayaavahe ।
asaadhurjanasaMparke yaH palaayati sa jIvati ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

upasarge anya-chakre cha durbhikShe cha bhayaavahe ।

asaadhuH jana-saMparke yaH palaayati saH jIvati ॥

May 20th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
चराणामन्नमचराः दंष्ट्रिणामप्यदंष्ट्रिणः ।
अहस्ताश्च सहस्तानां शूराणां चैव भीरवः ॥
- मनुस्मृति


Transliteration:
carāṇāmannamacarāḥ daṃṣṭriṇāmapyadaṃṣṭriṇaḥ ।
ahastāśca sahastānāṃ śūrāṇāṃ caiva bhīravaḥ ॥
- manusmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Food for the mobile (deer, etc) are the immobile (grass, etc); for a predator (with sharp teeth, like lion, tiger, etc) are those without sharp teeth (deer, etc); hand-less (fruit, vegetables) are (food) for those with hands (humans); and for the brave, it is the coward.

Commentary:

The poet has deeply analyzed society and its functioning.  He makes a fair observation and quotes some timeless truths—Deer can go from one place to another, but they eat immobile grass. Carnivores, who have sharp teeth, eat deer which do not have sharp teeth. Humans have hands and their food is fruit and vegetable, which do not have hands. Similarly, the brave have courage and feed on those who do not have courage!

A tiger will never attack another tiger. A deer will never eat another deer. People are supposed to eat vegetarian. (That is a different topic altogether.) Even if they are eating meat today, it is because they have attained more power in their hands (in the form of ammunition). They can eat other animals too, simply because they have conquered their fear of the animal. Hence, if being harassed or bullied by a stronger person, one should not simply sympathize with himself and play the victim. That is why it is said, "He is not a victim of the bullier, but a victim of his own cowardice!" 

Whether we like it or not, this happens in the world more often than not! If one doesn't want to offer himself as food for the ones with more strength, he has only one choice—he must embrace courage himself. At the same time, strength is not for bullying others. It should be accompanied by compassion and ethics.

Do not be a coward and become food for bullies.  Also, people with real merit use their strength for the benefit of others and do not make others feel insignificant! 

pada vigrahaH:
चराणाम् अन्नम् अचराः दंष्ट्रिणाम् अपि अदंष्ट्रिणः ।
carāṇām annam acarāḥ daṃṣṭriṇām api adaṃṣṭriṇaḥ ।

अहस्ताः च सहस्तानां शूराणां च एव भीरवः ॥
ahastāḥ ca sahastānāṃ śūrāṇāṃ ca eva bhīravaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
charaaNaamannamacharaaH daMShTriNaamapyadaMShTriNaH ।
ahastaashcha sahastaanaaM shUraaNaaM chaiva bhIravaH ॥
- manusmRuti

charaaNaam annam acharaaH daMShTriNaam api adaMShTriNaH ।

ahastaaH cha sahastaanaaM shUraaNaaM cha eva bhIravaH ॥

May 6th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दीपो भक्षयते ध्वान्तं कज्जलञ्च प्रसूयते ।
यदन्नं भक्षयेन्नित्यं जायते तादृशी प्रजाः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
dīpo bhakṣayate dhvāntaṃ kajjalañca prasūyate ।
yadannaṃ bhakṣayennityaṃ jāyate tādṛśī prajāḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A lamp devours darkness and emits (dark) soot. (Similarly), whatever food is consumed regularly, such a progeny is born.

Commentary:

When a lamp is lit to eradicate darkness, it will certainly light up the place. However, it also gives out dark black soot, as if an indication of the darkness it consumed. This metaphor is used to illustrate that just as one's food habits are, such will be the offspring born. The food one consumes regularly has a lot to say about his attitudes and tendencies. One's food habits dictate the temperament of not just himself, but his offspring as well!

It is said in the Vedas, 'अन्नात् पुरुषः' (annāt puruṣaḥ) which means that the potential energy in the food transforms into living energy in the being.  This is said in the Vedas again and again, 'अन्नाद्वै प्राणः' (annādvai prāṇaḥ).  Because of food, the vital energies and bodily functions shall remain!  When such is the case, it means—what one eats is directly what one is!!  It is not an indirect relationship.  

One's temperament and even predicaments are all influenced by the food he consumes.  When one's attributes are in a certain way, when he has children, they will be the very reflection of him.  How can it be otherwise?!!

Be mindful of your habits. Treat food as medicine. 

As you sow, so shall you reap.  As you eat, so is your progeny.

pada vigrahaH:
दीपः भक्षयते ध्वान्तं कज्जलं च प्रसूयते ।
dīpaḥ bhakṣayate dhvāntaṃ kajjalaṃ ca prasūyate ।

यत् अन्नं भक्षयेत् नित्यं जायते तादृशी प्रजाः ॥
yat annaṃ bhakṣayet nityaṃ jāyate tādṛśī prajāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
deepo bhakShayate dhvaantaM kajjala~ncha prasUyate ।
yadannaM bhakShayennityaM jaayate taadRushI prajaaH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

deepaH bhakShayate dhvaantaM kajjalaM cha prasUyate ।

yat annaM bhakShayet nityaM jaayate taadRushI prajaaH ॥

May 4th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अनादायी व्ययं कुर्यात् असहायी रणप्रियः ।
आतुरः सर्वभक्षी च नरः शीघ्रं विनश्यति ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
anādāyī vyayaṃ kuryāt asahāyī raṇapriyaḥ ।
āturaḥ sarvabhakṣī ca naraḥ śīghraṃ vinaśyati ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Devoid of income, (yet) a spendthrift; helpless, (but) fond of picking fights; diseased, (yet) eating (anything and) everything—such a person perishes soon.

Commentary:

He who perishes by his own weapons dies twice. On that note, these three types of people die multiple deaths!  

1. Stretch your feet only as far as the bed. Do not live beyond your means. There are many such sayings which profess the same value. Be judicious in spending! Especially for those whose income is challenged. It is not judicious to spend a dollar when one is finding it hard to dish out even a penny. He will never prosper.
2. It is not wise to pick a fight in the first place. Still, if one wants to pick a fight, he has to pick someone his own size. It is not prudent to start a tiff with someone much bigger than himself, both in size and stature, and have no backup help. He will never win.
3. You become what you eat. Eating habits define a person's physical and emotional health. If food is treated as medicine to sustain the body, he can be in good health. One won't take medicine unnecessarily nor more than the recommended dosage, for the specific illness. The same is true with food. Especially when one is in bad health, it is not wise to eat delicacies to satiate his palate. His health will only deteriorate.

People with any of these 3 temperaments perish faster than they should or would. Beware, take care!

pada vigrahaH:

अनादायी व्ययं कुर्यात् असहायी रण-प्रियः ।
anādāyī vyayaṃ kuryāt asahāyī raṇa-priyaḥ ।

आतुरः सर्व-भक्षी च नरः शीघ्रं विनश्यति ॥
āturaḥ sarva-bhakṣī ca naraḥ śīghraṃ vinaśyati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
anaadaayI vyayaM kuryaat asahaayI raNapriyaH ।
aaturaH sarvabhakShI cha naraH shIghraM vinashyati ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

anaadaayI vyayaM kuryaat asahaayI raNa-priyaH ।

aaturaH sarva-bhakShI cha naraH shIghraM vinashyati ॥

April 10th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
धनधान्यप्रयोगेषु विद्यासङ्ग्रहणेषु च ।
आहारे व्यवहारे च त्यक्तलज्जः सुखी भवेत् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
dhanadhānyaprayogeṣu vidyāsaṅgrahaṇeṣu ca ।
āhāre vyavahāre ca tyaktalajjaḥ sukhī bhavet ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

In dealing with money and riches, earning knowledge, eating, and comportment—he who is not shy prospers.

Commentary:

When one is running a business and dealing with money and materials, he can not afford to be shy. He can't feel inhibited in asking for money from his customers. Otherwise, in no time, he will run into losses and his business will fall apart.

A person on a quest for knowledge cannot permit himself to be shy. On the path of learning, it is natural to have many questions. One needs to be bold to get his doubts clarified. As they say, 'He who asks a question might seem like a fool for five minutes; he who does not, remains one forever!' Shyness cannot be proactive towards learning. 

While eating, one cannot entertain shyness. He would have to say what he wants and what he doesn't. One may be able to accommodate and be guarded for a day or two, but in the long run, he is better off expressing his preferences.

One's conduct or approach towards people is very crucial in progressing in his career or in society. He should be able to express his views and ideas as and when appropriate. If he is of a bashful nature, he will not be able to present himself or his thoughts accurately.

Shyness, in any of the above scenarios, will not make a person happy. When he is not happy, he can not prosper. Hence, pack up your shyness and speak up! There is no substitute for you!!

pada vigrahaH:
धन-धान्य-प्रयोगेषु विद्या-सङ्ग्रहणेषु च ।
dhana-dhānya-prayogeṣu vidyā-saṅgrahaṇeṣu ca ।

आहारे व्यवहारे च त्यक्त-लज्जः सुखी भवेत् ॥
āhāre vyavahāre ca tyakta-lajjaḥ sukhī bhavet ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
dhanadhaanyaprayogeShu vidyaasa~ngrahaNeShu cha ।
aahaare vyavahaare cha tyaktalajjaH sukhI bhavet ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

dhana-dhaanya-prayogeShu vidyaa-sa~ngrahaNeShu cha ।

aahaare vyavahaare cha tyakta-lajjaH sukhI bhavet ॥

April 8th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
आहारनिद्राभयमैथुनञ्च सामान्यमेतत् पशुभिर्नराणाम् ।
धर्मोहि तेषामधिको विशेषः धर्मेण हीनाः पशुभिस्समानाः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
āhāranidrābhayamaithunañca sāmānyametat paśubhirnarāṇām ।
dharmohi teṣāmadhiko viśeṣaḥ dharmeṇa hīnāḥ paśubhissamānāḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Food, sleep, fear, and mating - these are equal in animals and humans. Virtue (dharma) alone is distinctive in them. (Those) devoid of dharma are equal to animals.

Commentary:

Eating when hungry; sleeping aligned with circadian rhythms; fear when threatened; copulating for procreating; - these traits are common to both animals and humans. 

So, how do we distinguish ourselves? Being clothed and speaking multiple languages—just these don't qualify one to claim as a species of a higher order! What sets humans apart is their ability to follow a path of virtue (dharma). Their intellect paves the way for them to think through the multitudes of paths they can take. A true human sticks to the path that qualifies as dharma. That ability to make decisions in coherence with dharma is what makes him human. Otherwise, he would be showing the same traits as the rest of the beings, which are called animals. Hence if one doesn't follow the path of virtue, then he is as good as an animal!

The one faculty that sets us apart from other beings is dharma. Do not forgo that for any reason.

Be human, follow dharma!

pada vigrahaH:

आहार-निद्रा-भय-मैथुनं च सामान्यम् एतत् पशुभिः नराणाम् ।
āhāra-nidrā-bhaya-maithunaṃ ca sāmānyam etat paśubhiḥ narāṇām ।

धर्मः हि तेषाम् अधिकः विशेषः धर्मेण हीनाः पशुभिः समानाः ॥
dharmaḥ hi teṣām adhikaḥ viśeṣaḥ dharmeṇa hīnāḥ paśubhiḥ samānāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
aahaaranidraabhayamaithuna~ncha saamaanyametat pashubhirnaraaNaam ।
dharmohi teShaamadhiko visheShaH dharmeNa hInaaH pashubhissamaanaaH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

aahaara-nidraa-bhaya-maithunaM cha saamaanyam etat pashubhiH naraaNaam ।

dharmaH hi teShaam adhikaH visheShaH dharmeNa hInaaH pashubhiH samaanaaH ॥

March 13th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
कुग्रामवासः कुजनस्य सेवा
कुभोजनं क्रोधमुखी च भार्या  ।
मूर्खश्च पुत्रो विधवा च कन्या
दहन्ति चैतानि जनं विनाग्निम् ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नसमुच्चय

Transliteration:
kugrāmavāsaḥ kujanasya sevā
kubhojanaṃ krodhamukhī ca bhāryā ।
mūrkhaśca putro vidhavā ca kanyā
dahanti caitāni janaṃ vināgnim ॥
- subhāṣitaratnasamuccaya

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Life in an ill-fated village; serving evil people; banal food; a wrathful wife; a stupid son; and a widowed daughter—these (six) burn one without the requirement of fire.

Commentary:

 Death is not the greatest loss in life. The greatest loss is what dies inside us while we live.

1. Living in unfavorable circumstances and conditions is not fun. Living among people who do not have value for dharma or living in an ambiance that brings misery is not pleasant either.
2. When subservient to evil people, one must kill his own conscience. There is no hell worse than having to silence one's inner voice and slug along life, under an evildoer.
3. All the efforts and endeavors one undertakes, are for the sake of his stomach. At the end of the day, whether one is rich or poor, his efforts are to satiate his palette. If the food is stale and unhealthy, that will negate all his efforts put into earning it.  He would neither enjoy eating such food nor does it assist in nurturing his health. It only aids in slowly killing the person.
4. A wife is the backbone of the household in many respects. She needs to be strong, yet pleasant because she serves as the shock absorber for the entire family. If the shock absorber is not efficient the family will not be cushioned from calamities. If the spouse is always wrathful and angry-faced instead of peaceful and relaxed, one will not look forward to coming to a place called home. The pleasantness of the husband and wife towards each other is an integral part of a successful household.
5. Every parent wants their children to prosper in life. With this in mind, they equip their children with education, for, that alone is the tool for leading a happy life. What if the son is a dullard and refuses to learn?! The parents of such children suffer anxiety throughout their lives.
6. No parent wants to see their offspring suffer pain of any order. How can parents see their daughter suffer the loss of her husband?!  Sorrow of the child is like a death sentence to the parents.

All these circumstances above are equated to death. When a person dies, he is burnt on a pyre with fire. However, all of these circumstances are capable of burning a person alive, without the need for external fire.

Some of these circumstances are destiny. But whatever is within our control, shouldn't we take charge of those?!  Shouldn't we make sure that our own lives and the lives of those around us are as happy as we can make?!

pada vigrahaH:
कुग्राम-वासः कुजनस्य सेवा
kugrāma-vāsaḥ kujanasya sevā

कुभोजनं क्रोध-मुखी च भार्या ।
kubhojanaṃ krodha-mukhī ca bhāryā ।

मूर्खः च पुत्रः विधवा च कन्या
mūrkhaḥ ca putraḥ vidhavā ca kanyā

दहन्ति च एतानि जनं विना अग्निम् ॥
dahanti ca etāni janaṃ vinā agnim ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kugraamavaasaH kujanasya sevaa
kubhojanaM krodhamukhI cha bhaaryaa ।
mUrkhashcha putro vidhavaa cha kanyaa
dahanti chaitaani janaM vinaagnim ॥
- subhaaShitaratnasamuchchaya

kugraama-vaasaH kujanasya sevaa

kubhojanaM krodha-mukhI cha bhaaryaa ।

mUrkhaH cha putraH vidhavaa cha kanyaa

dahanti cha etaani janaM vinaa agnim ॥

February 20th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अनभ्यासे विषं विद्या अजीर्णे भोजनं विषम् ।
मूर्खस्य च विषं गोष्ठी वृद्धस्य तरुणी विषम् ॥
- समयोचितपद्यमालिका


Transliteration:
anabhyāse viṣaṃ vidyā ajīrṇe bhojanaṃ viṣam ।
mūrkhasya ca viṣaṃ goṣṭhī vṛddhasya taruṇī viṣam ॥
- samayocitapadyamālikā

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Knowledge (turns) poisonous without practice; food is (like) poison (during) indigestion; an assembly is (like) poison for the foolish; a young girl is (equal to) poison for an aging man.

Commentary:

Poison is disastrous whether it causes death or not. This verse has examples of things that can be as fatal as poison (even if they don't cause death).

1. Practice makes perfect!  Knowledge, that has lost touch, is out of tune, or is not updated—is a disaster waiting to happen. A person cannot claim authority over a vidyā that he has not practiced. Because, chances are, he might have forgotten bits and pieces, and not even be aware of it. He may not be abreast with the latest facts on the subject. He may not be as skillful either, due to lack of practice. Such knowledge can be dangerous.
2. On occasions of indigestion, the best rule to follow is - लङ्घनं परमौषधम् (laṅghanaṃ paramauṣadham). This means that 'skipping a meal is the best medicine'!  Given a little time, nature sets itself right quickly. To make an avenue for that, the best remedy is to not stuff the stomach with more food. Otherwise, food can turn as painful as poison.
3. An assembly of people where thoughts are being discussed and ideas exchanged, is not a place a foolish person enjoys going to. He may not have the required knowledge, material, or oratory skills essential for such a setting. For him, such a place is as unpleasant as poison.
4. A young girl brings distress to an old man. She reminds him of his lost years of youth and therefore brings unhappiness.

If one can identify his shortcomings, it will become easy to avoid getting into stressful situations like those stated above.

pada vigrahaH:
अनभ्यासे विषं विद्या अजीर्णे भोजनं विषम् ।
anabhyāse viṣaṃ vidyā ajīrṇe bhojanaṃ viṣam ।

मूर्खस्य च विषं गोष्ठी वृद्धस्य तरुणी विषम् ॥
mūrkhasya ca viṣaṃ goṣṭhī vṛddhasya taruṇī viṣam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
anabhyaase viShaM vidyaa ajIrNe bhojanaM viSham ।
mUrkhasya cha viShaM goShThI vRuddhasya taruNI viSham ॥
- samayochitapadyamaalikaa

anabhyaase viShaM vidyaa ajIrNe bhojanaM viSham ।

mUrkhasya cha viShaM goShThI vRuddhasya taruNI viSham ॥

January 19th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
शतं विहाय भोक्तव्यं सहस्रं स्नानमाचरेत् ।
लक्षं विहाय दातव्यं सर्वं त्यक्त्वा हरिं भजेत् ॥

Transliteration:
śataṃ vihāya bhoktavyaṃ sahasraṃ snānamācaret ।
lakṣaṃ vihāya dātavyaṃ sarvaṃ tyaktvā hariṃ bhajet ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Abandon 100 (errands) to eat; (abandon) 1000 (tasks) to perform ablutions; abandon 100,000 (chores) and give charity; set aside everything to serve the Lord.

Commentary:

The first sentence is enticing! Drop a 100 things on the to-do list and eat. This is said because food is essential for survival.

But then the second part of the verse says, "Drop a 1000 chores (that includes eating) and take a bath".  This is because cleanliness is Godliness.

The third quarter of the verse says, "Giving charity and doing charitable actions takes more priority than a hundred thousand other jobs (including eating and bathing)".

The final quarter says, "Leave everything (including eating, bathing, giving) and serve the Lord".

The verse does not advocate leaving all duties and simply sitting in prayer! Certainly not!! The main intent of the verse is to portray that we need to see the work of the Supreme Power in every single moment, in and through everything we do in our lives. We can't survive without eating or bathing or doing good for others. 

This verse urges us to see divinity in all aspects of daily life. We must continue to do what we do, only with a different attitude—that of अर्पणभाव (arpaṇabhāva, an attitude of offering). Everything we do should be an offering to the Lord. Life becomes a lot easier and the world suddenly becomes a happier place to live in. 

When we see divinity, we become divine. 

pada vigrahaH:
शतं विहाय भोक्तव्यं सहस्रं स्नानम् आचरेत् ।
śataṃ vihāya bhoktavyaṃ sahasraṃ snānam ācaret ।

लक्षं विहाय दातव्यं सर्वं त्यक्त्वा हरिं भजेत् ॥
lakṣaṃ vihāya dātavyaṃ sarvaṃ tyaktvā hariṃ bhajet ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
shataM vihaaya bhoktavyaM sahasraM snaanamaacharet ।
lakShaM vihaaya daatavyaM sarvaM tyaktvaa hariM bhajet ॥

shataM vihaaya bhoktavyaM sahasraM snaanam aacharet ।

lakShaM vihaaya daatavyaM sarvaM tyaktvaa hariM bhajet ॥

January 12th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
द्राक्षा म्लानमुखी जाता शर्करा चाश्मताङ्गता ।

सुभाषितरसस्याग्रे सुधा भीता दिवङ्गता ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
drākṣā mlānamukhī jātā śarkarā cāśmatāṅgatā ।
subhāṣitarasasyāgre sudhā bhītā divaṅgatā ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Grapes (had) a wilted face (and) sugar solidified. Upon the genesis (origination) of the essence of subhāṣitas, the divine nectar ran away to heaven in fear! 

Commentary:

The poet vividly captures the essence of sweetness by playfully describing the existence of raisins, rock sugar, and amṛta (divine nectar). Grapes, once plump and full of juice, shriveled into raisins; sugar, delicate and fine, crystallized into solid rock sugar; and amṛta, the nectar of the Gods, fled to the heavens. Why? As the poet whimsically suggests, these manifestations of sweetness recognized their inferiority in front of the unparalleled charm and wisdom of subhāṣitas—succinct and profound Sanskrit verses brimming with timeless truths. Hence they attained their current conditions. 

This clever imagery draws us into the world of subhāṣitas, where sweetness transcends its literal meaning to embody the richness of thought, the depth of insight, and the beauty of poetic expression. It is as if these natural forms of sweetness humbly stepped aside, leaving the stage to the brilliance of subhāṣitas to captivate the hearts and minds of those who encounter them.

Timeless and universal, subhāṣitas continue to shine across ages, imparting ethical teachings, eternal truths, and reflections on life that resonate deeply with every generation. Their power lies in their brevity, distilling wisdom into a form that remains as sweet and meaningful today as it was centuries ago. Truly, blessed are those who savor the sweetness of these eternal pearls of wisdom—a treasure trove of thoughts that nourish the heart and inspire the mind!

pada vigrahaH:
द्राक्षा म्लान-मुखी जाता शर्करा च अश्मतां  गता ।
drākṣā mlāna-mukhī jātā śarkarā ca aśmatāṃ gatā ।

सुभाषित-रसस्य अग्रे सुधा भीता दिवं गता ॥
subhāṣita-rasasya agre sudhā bhītā divaṃ gatā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
draakShaa mlaanamukhI jaataa sharkaraa chaashmataa~ngataa ।
subhaaShitarasasyaagre sudhaa bhItaa diva~ngataa ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

draakShaa mlaana-mukhI jaataa sharkaraa cha ashmataaM gataa ।

subhaaShita-rasasya agre sudhaa bhItaa divaM gataa ॥