October 23rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

स्त्रियो हि नाम खल्वेताः निसर्गादेव पण्डिताः ।  

पुरुषाणां तु पाण्डित्यं शास्त्रैरेवोपदिश्यते ॥

- मृच्छकटिक

Transliteration:

striyo hi nāma khalvetāḥ nisargādeva paṇḍitāḥ ।

puruṣāṇāṃ tu pāṇḍityaṃ śāstrairevopadiśyate ।।

- mṛcchakaṭika

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Certainly, by nature itself, women are indeed intelligent.  On the other hand, men attain their intelligence through the study of scriptures alone. 

Commentary:

Women are NOT equal to men!  This may sound shocking, but consider the words that follow: "Men are not nearly as evolved as women, nor as intelligent, evidently." 

As this verse says, it is written in the fabric of nature itself: women are born intelligent. This intelligence is not of the mind alone, but of the soul, the body, and the heart. A woman is graced with the singular gift of bringing new life into this world, holding that fragile life within her body, protecting it, and nurturing it through the most formative years. She requires a sharp intuition to do this and a deep knowing that surpasses logic. 

Even in the animal kingdom, it is often the female who protects, nurtures, and tends to the young. She is instinctively attuned to the needs of her offspring, often with greater sensitivity and care than her male counterpart. 

Intuition, then, is the most natural of feminine qualities. With inimitable certainty, a woman knows what is best for herself and her family. Even the simplest, most uneducated woman possesses the innate wisdom to care for her loved ones, manage her household, and make decisions that protect and provide. This wisdom does not stem from formal learning but from the deep well of her intuition.  She uses her intelligence to find reasons to support her intuition. It is her superpower and it flows effortlessly.  

However, not all women choose to, or are able to, tap into this inherent quality. Circumstances, choices, and personal experiences can shape how this innate intelligence manifests—or remains dormant. Yet, the potential for this profound connection to life and its sustenance remains a gift woven into the essence of womanhood.

In contrast, the path of the man is a different journey. A man’s intelligence must be earned, not inherited. As the saying goes, "I’d rather trust a woman’s instinct than a man’s reason." This doesn’t mean a man can’t be intelligent—he can—but his intelligence requires conscious effort, not the natural ease of a woman’s intuition. The true measure of intelligence is the ability to change, learn, and grow. As the poet suggests, a man must acquire knowledge through study, honing his intelligence through wisdom.  He must work tirelessly to sharpen his mind, hone his reasoning, and cultivate his instincts through study and discipline. With effort, he too can gain what is not inherently his through learning, reflection, and strife.   

A woman's greatness is revealed not by external lights that shine upon her but by the light that shines from within.  This inner brilliance, her natural intuitive power, is what truly elevates her. In a world that recognizes this inherent wisdom in women, harmony will reign.

pada vigrahaH:

स्त्रियो हि नाम खलु एताः निसर्गात् एव पण्डिताः ।

striyo hi nāma khalu etāḥ nisargāt eva paṇḍitāḥ । 

पुरुषाणां तु पाण्डित्यं शास्त्रैः एव उपदिश्यते ॥

puruṣāṇāṃ tu pāṇḍityaṃ śāstraiḥ eva upadiśyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

striyo hi naama khalvetaaH nisargaadeva paNDitaaH |

puruShaaNaaM tu paaNDityaM shaastrairevopadishyate ||

- mRucCakaTika

striyo hi naama khalu etaaH nisargaat eva paNDitaaH |

puruShaaNaaM tu paaNDityaM shaastraiH eva upadishyate ||

October 12th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

जीवन्तु मे शत्रुगणाः सदैव  येषां प्रसादत्सुविचक्षणोऽहम्  ।

ये ये यथा मां प्रतिबाधयन्ति ते ते तथा मां प्रतिबोधयन्ति  ॥

Transliteration:

jīvantu me śatrugaṇāḥ sadaiva yeṣāṃ prasādatsuvicakṣaṇo'ham ।

ye ye yathā māṃ pratibādhayanti te te tathā māṃ pratibodhayanti ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

May the tribe of my enemies prosper, due to whose grace I am wiser.  Whoever has troubled me, they all have only taught me! 

Commentary:

"Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer!" While often quoted as a caution to watch enemies with greater vigilance, this verse shows a different dimension and a deeper meaning.

With a generous heart, the poet offers blessings of prosperity even to his enemies! Rather than cursing them, he expresses gratitude—for it is through their hostility that he sharpened his mind and cultivated wisdom. Every insult, and every challenge they threw his way only served to make him stronger. He says, his growth was a direct result of their opposition.

In fact, it is smart to pay attention to one’s enemies. They are the first to uncover our faults, eager to expose every weakness. If a person aspires to improve himself every day enemies are his most efficient critics. They point out what friends might overlook, providing valuable lessons in disguise.

When a person takes a stand for something meaningful making enemies is inevitable. An absence of enemies might as well mean that he never stood up for anything.  Fighting for a cause means inviting opposition, and opposition often reveals the true strength of one’s convictions.

However, hatred toward enemies must be avoided, for hatred clouds judgment and weakens the spirit. Hence, real enemies are better than false friends. An enemy reveals his true intentions without pretense, whereas a fake friend hides betrayal behind a smile. If one's merit is undeniable, even the enemy is compelled to acknowledge it—and such reluctant praise carries the highest value!

Do not hate your enemies. They give you strength and resilience.  Letting go of hate ends the enmity from your side and frees you to see things clearly. An enemy too, can be life’s most unexpected teacher! Embrace learning from anywhere, anyone, and any source. 

pada vigrahaH:

जीवन्तु मे शत्रु-गणाः सदा एव  येषां प्रसादात् सुविचक्षणः अहम् ।

jīvantu me śatru-gaṇāḥ sadā eva yeṣāṃ prasādāt suvicakṣaṇaḥ aham ।

ये ये यथा मां प्रति-बाधयन्ति ते ते तथा मां प्रति-बोधयन्ति  ॥

ye ye yathā māṃ prati-bādhayanti te te tathā māṃ prati-bodhayanti ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

jeevantu me shatrugaNaaH sadaiva yeShaaM prasaadatsuvichakShaNo.ham ।

ye ye yathaa maaM pratibaadhayanti te te tathaa maaM pratibodhayanti ॥

jeevantu me shatru-gaNaaH sadaa eva yeShaaM prasaadaat suvichakShaNaH aham ।

ye ye yathaa maaM prati-baadhayanti te te tathaa maaM prati-bodhayanti ॥

April 16th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यत्र विद्वज्जनो नास्ति श्लाघ्यस्तत्राल्पधीरपि ।
निरस्तपादपे देशे एरण्डोऽपि द्रुमायते ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नसमुच्चय

Transliteration:
yatra vidvajjano nāsti ślāghyastatrālpadhīrapi ।
nirastapādape deśe eraṇḍo'pi drumāyate ॥
- subhāṣitaratnasamuccaya

Meaning of the subhAShita:

In a place where there are no learned people, even a dull-witted person becomes laudable.  In a place where there is no vegetation, even a castor plant passes for a tree!

Commentary:

This verse critiques those who take pride in their superiority only because they are surrounded by mediocrity. When everyone around possesses average or limited capabilities, even someone with a few accomplishments may be celebrated as a hero. The example used here is the castor oil plant—a modest shrub with scanty leaves, in the absence of any other vegetation, may pass for a "tree."

True achievement lies in one's intrinsic abilities and accomplishments, not in how they compare to those around them. Inflating one's ego by claiming superiority over mediocrity serves no real purpose. It's akin to the frog in the well, who believes he is the greatest swimmer in the world simply because he has never encountered the vastness of the ocean.

If the bar were raised, such individuals might either rise to the challenge and grow or, at the very least, develop humility regarding their actual standing. Surrounding oneself with mediocrity can create a false ceiling, limiting growth and fostering complacency. A higher standard and exposure to excellence push individuals to refine their skills and broaden their horizons.

The best way to continually grow is to compete with oneself. By striving to improve daily, there are no limits to what one can achieve. This approach fosters humility and ensures progress is independent of external comparisons.

Ultimately, it is far more commendable to achieve modest success under challenging circumstances than to thrive effortlessly in a weak setup. Taking risks and continuously striving for self-improvement is what separates the ordinary from the extraordinary. Aim higher, challenge yourself, and grow beyond the confines of comfort!

pada vigrahaH:
यत्र विद्वत् जनः न अस्ति श्लाघ्यः तत्र अल्प-धीः अपि ।
yatra vidvat janaḥ na asti ślāghyaḥ tatra alpa-dhīḥ api ।

निरस्त पादपे देशे एरण्डः अपि द्रुमायते ॥
nirasta pādape deśe eraṇḍaḥ api drumāyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yatra vidvajjano naasti shlaaghyastatraalpadhIrapi ।
nirastapaadape deshe eraNDo.pi drumaayate ॥
- subhaaShitaratnasamuchchaya

yatra vidvat janaH na asti shlaaghyaH tatra alpa-dhIH api ।
nirasta paadape deshe eraNDaH api drumaayate ॥

December 8th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अकारणेनैव चतुराः तर्कयन्ति परेङ्गितम् ।
गर्भस्थं केतकीपुष्पम् आमोदेनेव षट्पदाः ॥

-प्रसन्नराघव 

Transliteration:
akāraṇenaiva caturāḥ tarkayanti pareṅgitam ।
garbhasthaṃ ketakīpuṣpam āmodeneva ṣaṭpadāḥ ॥
-prasannarāghava

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Without any summons, the clever inquire into others' intentions; (just as), the bees (locate) a hidden ketakI flower simply with its fragrance.

Commentary:

It is said that one's outward actions reveal his/her hidden intentions!  A person doesn't necessarily express all his thoughts in actions or words.  The reasons for this could be many—he may not have the necessary circumstances or ambiance or lack the communication skills to express himself.

However, a clever person does not necessarily have to be told!  He can assimilate the thoughts and intentions of the other just through subtle hints such as body language or other environmental factors. Like in the fable, Androcles understood that the Lion had a thorn in his foot without being told by the Lion.

The poet gives the example of the bees.  They do not need to physically see the fragrant ketakI flower before aspiring to sip its nectar.  They can follow the scent of the flower and zero in on the exact location of it even if it lies hidden or far from sight!  Similar is the way of an intelligent person.  He can grasp the intentions of other people, whether good or bad.  

Anyone can handle a situation better if he understands the other person.  If the intentions are good, they can aid each other in materializing their thoughts.  If the intentions are bad, it is certainly smart to stay away from such a situation or such a company.  Hence, in all scenarios, being adept and skillful at reading another's mind is certainly a blessing!

The intelligence to read another's mind makes one think from the other person's perspective.  This gives a vision beyond what meets the eye and he becomes less judgemental.  Blessed are people who have this attitude and so are the ones that keep such company!

pada vigrahaH:
अकारणेन एव चतुराः तर्कयन्ति पर-इङ्गितम् ।
akāraṇena eva caturāḥ tarkayanti para-iṅgitam ।

गर्भस्थं केतकी-पुष्पम् आमोदेन इव षट्पदाः ॥

garbhasthaṃ ketakī-puṣpam āmodena iva ṣaṭpadāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
akaaraNenaiva chaturaaH tarkayanti pare~ngitam ।
garbhasthaM ketakIpuShpam aamodeneva ShaTpadaaH ॥

-prasannaraaghava 

akaaraNena eva chaturaaH tarkayanti para-i~ngitam ।

garbhasthaM ketakI-puShpam aamodena iva ShaTpadaaH ॥

August 12th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
इदमेव हि पाण्डित्यं चातुर्यमिदमेव हि ।
इदमेव सुबुद्धित्वम् आयादल्पतरो व्ययः ॥
- समयोचितपद्यमालिका

Transliteration:
idameva hi pāṇḍityaṃ cāturyamidameva hi ।
idameva subuddhitvam āyādalpataro vyayaḥ ॥
- samayocitapadyamālikā

Meaning of the subhAShita:

This alone is erudition, this alone is dexterity, this alone is good intellect—expense must be less than revenue.

Commentary:

Not stretching beyond means!

What one possesses, only that, he can expend.  What one owns, only that, he can give.  What one earns, only that, he can spend.  Isn't this a straightforward philosophy?  

The poet opines that this alone is erudition, dexterity, and good intellect.  Although these are different facets of decision-making, they have been mentioned individually to emphasize that 'all these have to give the same end result'—spending less than what is earned.  There is no choice about it.  For, owing to someone is a burden of the heaviest kind.   The heaviest interest a debtor pays is his dignity and his self-respect!

The most sensible way to avoid this scenario is: to live within one's means; not stretching beyond what he can afford, always having something stored for a rainy day...  Even ants do that!  Shouldn't humans do this more ardently?

Spending is quick, earning is slow.  Beware!  Earn slowly, and spend even more slowly.

pada vigrahaH:
इदम् एव हि पाण्डित्यं चातुर्यम् इदम् एव हि ।

idam eva hi pāṇḍityaṃ cāturyam idam eva hi ।

इदम् एव सु-बुद्धित्वम् आयात् अल्पतरः व्ययः ॥
idam eva su-buddhitvam āyāt alpataraḥ vyayaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
idameva hi paaNDityaM chaaturyamidameva hi ।
idameva subuddhitvam aayaadalpataro vyayaH ॥
- samayochitapadyamaalikaa

idam eva hi paaNDityaM chaaturyam idam eva hi ।

idam eva su-buddhitvam aayaat alpataraH vyayaH ॥

June 24th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
उदीरितोऽर्थः पशुनापि गृह्यते
हयाश्च नागाश्च वहन्ति देशिताः ।
अनुक्तमप्यूहति पण्डितो जनः
परेङ्गितज्ञानफला हि बुद्धयः ॥
- हितोपदेश, सुहृद्भेद

Transliteration:
udīrito'rthaḥ paśunāpi gṛhyate
hayāśca nāgāśca vahanti deśitāḥ ।
anuktamapyūhati paṇḍito janaḥ
pareṅgitajñānaphalā hi buddhayaḥ ॥
- hitopadeśa, suhṛdbheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

That which is expressed explicitly is grasped by even animals, (just as) horses and elephants execute on orders.  The intelligent perceive even that which is unsaid.  Certainly, the consequence of intelligence is an understanding of the intent of others.

Commentary:

'Stay', 'fetch', 'run', 'dance', 'jump'—even animals respond to such instructions.  A horse can run when whipped.  An elephant can lug the load as per orders from the mahout. Dogs can sit or fetch as per instructions. Animals, especially the domesticated ones, promptly do what they are told.  Doing what is asked of them is not difficult for animals.  They do not have to use much intelligence or make challenging decisions that require special skills.

Shouldn't the intelligence of man set him apart?!  The intelligence of man allows him to understand and perceive even untold words.  The ability to perceive is greater than the knowledge received. 

Empathy is the art of imagining oneself in other people's shoes, understanding their feelings and perspectives, and using that understanding to guide one's own actions! One must take the initiative to show empathy. 

The author of the verse says the consequence of proper intelligence is—the ability to perceive the untold stories! Show empathy, take charge, take initiative. Taking initiative means doing the right thing without being told! 

pada vigrahaH:
उदीरितः अर्थः पशुना अपि गृह्यते
udīritaḥ arthaḥ paśunā api gṛhyate

हयाः च नागाः च वहन्ति देशिताः ।
hayāḥ ca nāgāḥ ca vahanti deśitāḥ ।

अनुक्तम् अपि ऊहति पण्डितः जनः
anuktam api ūhati paṇḍitaḥ janaḥ

पर-इङ्गित-ज्ञान-फलाः हि बुद्धयः ॥
para-iṅgita-jñāna-phalāḥ hi buddhayaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
udIrito.rthaH pashunaapi gRuhyate
hayaashcha naagaashcha vahanti deshitaaH ।
anuktamapyUhati paNDito janaH
pare~ngitaj~naanaphalaa hi buddhayaH ॥
- hitopadesha, suhRudbheda

udIritaH arthaH pashunaa api gRuhyate

hayaaH cha naagaaH cha vahanti deshitaaH ।

anuktam api Uhati paNDitaH janaH

para-i~ngita-j~naana-phalaaH hi buddhayaH ॥

June 10th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
उच्चैरुच्चरितव्यं यत्किञ्चिदजानतापि पुरुषेण ।
मूर्खा बहु मन्यन्ते विदुषामपि संशयो भवति ॥
- सुभाषितसुधानिधि

Transliteration:
uccairuccaritavyaṃ yatkiñcidajānatāpi puruṣeṇa ।
mūrkhā bahu manyante viduṣāmapi saṃśayo bhavati ॥
- subhāṣitasudhānidhi

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Whatever little is spoken by a person, it should be said articulately even if unaware of everything.  For, (not only shall) the foolish regard highly, (but) even the wise shall become incredulous.

Commentary:

While speaking, along with what is being spoken the conviction of the speaker weighs in quite a bit!  Like it or not, if the speaker is not certain of himself, how can he expect his audience to have any faith in what he is saying?  Swallowing words, stuttering, stammering, mumbling, droning, none of these grab the attention of the listeners. 

'Write to be understood, speak to be heard'!  If one wants to be heard, he needs to speak and speak clearly he MUST!  Speech is power when used aptly, if not, one will regret that he ever opened his mouth!  When he does, he should make sure it is loud and clear.

The poet goes a step further and says, that even if unaware of everything, one should speak clearly!  Because the dull-witted shall have high regard due to one's delivery and the smart ones too shall doubt for a moment that the speaker might know everything ;). Deception is not the purpose here, nor is it promoting pompousness!  All the author is saying is, to be confident and present whatever little you know, in a crystal clear manner.

Don't mumble... SPEAK UP... so you can be heard!

pada vigrahaH:
उच्चैः उच्चरितव्यं यत् किञ्चित् अजानताः अपि पुरुषेण ।
uccaiḥ uccaritavyaṃ yat kiñcit ajānatāḥ api puruṣeṇa ।

मूर्खाः बहु मन्यन्ते विदुषाम् अपि संशयः भवति ॥
mūrkhāḥ bahu manyante viduṣām api saṃśayaḥ bhavati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
uchchairuchcharitavyaM yatki~nchidajaanataapi puruSheNa ।
mUrkhaa bahu manyante viduShaamapi saMshayo bhavati ॥
- subhaaShitasudhaanidhi

uchchaiH uchcharitavyaM yat ki~nchit ajaanataaH api puruSheNa ।

mUrkhaaH bahu manyante viduShaam api saMshayaH bhavati ॥

January 28th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यदशक्यं न तच्छक्यं यच्छक्यं शक्यमेव तत् ।
नोदके शकटं याति न नौका गच्छति स्थले ॥
- हितोपदेश, मित्रलाभ

Transliteration:
yadaśakyaṃ na tacchakyaṃ yacchakyaṃ śakyameva tat ।
nodake śakaṭaṃ yāti na naukā gacchati sthale ॥
- hitopadeśa, mitralābha

Meaning of the subhAShita:

That which is not possible is not possible; that which is possible is certainly possible!  A cart cannot go in the water, (and) a boat cannot go on land!

Commentary:

Everything and everyone in this world has a purpose. Each person or object must serve the world in alignment with their inherent attributes. A boat is designed to float and navigate on water—it cannot transport people over land. Similarly, a buggy or cart moves effortlessly on land but cannot aid in water travel. Each fulfills its role as dictated by its 'vastu-dharma', its intrinsic nature.

Exerting energy in the wrong direction or expecting something to act against its nature is futile. However, the challenge in real life lies in the absence of clear labels or instructions regarding these attributes. Often, the line between what is possible and what is not is blurry. It falls upon us to discern our capabilities, limitations, and the nature of the world around us.

Another reality is that life doesn’t provide the guiding background music that movies or plays use to set the tone and clarify situations. We are left to interpret, analyze, and decide for ourselves without external cues. The art of living lies in figuring out what is worth pursuing and what is best left alone.

May the Lord grant us the serenity to accept the things we cannot change, the courage to change the things we can, and the wisdom to know the difference!

pada vigrahaH:
यत् अशक्यं न तत् शक्यं यत् शक्यं शक्यम् एव तत् ।

yat aśakyaṃ na tat śakyaṃ yat śakyaṃ śakyam eva tat ।

न उदके शकटं याति न नौका गच्छति स्थले ॥
na udake śakaṭaṃ yāti na naukā gacchati sthale ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yadashakyaM na tachChakyaM yachChakyaM shakyameva tat ।
nodake shakaTaM yaati na naukaa gachChati sthale ॥
- hitopadesha, mitralaabha

yat ashakyaM na tat shakyaM yat shakyaM shakyam eva tat ।

na udake shakaTaM yaati na naukaa gachChati sthale ॥

December 3rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पिण्डे पिण्डे मतिर्भिन्ना कुण्डे कुण्डे नवं पयः ।
जातौ जातौ नवाचाराः नवा वाणी मुखे मुखे ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
piṇḍe piṇḍe matirbhinnā kuṇḍe kuṇḍe navaṃ payaḥ ।
jātau jātau navācārāḥ navā vāṇī mukhe mukhe ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Varied is the intellect in different people; varied is the (taste in) water from different sources; varied are the customs from different descents; varied are the speech from different folks.

Commentary:

Water from each well, pond, and lake tastes different.  Each lineage of people has different customs, practices, and beliefs.  Each individual speaks and sounds differently.  Similarly, each person is different and each has a different perspective.  It is these varied perspectives that make the world unique and beautiful!  

If not, imagine a world full of people like oneself!!  That is not only impractical and boring but also impossible.  If one person is exactly like the other, each with his own ego, imagine the outcome of such a situation!  Neither shall give up, and neither shall win.  At the end of the day, neither likes the other which truly implies that they both hate themselves!  So, thank God for making variety the spice of life.  Despite being born from the same energy and enlivened with the light of the same supreme power, each individual is different.  It is best when the surroundings are accepted in their varied colors and hues.

The essence of all beings is the same, only their approaches are different.  Everybody is ignorant, only on different subjects!  When seen with an open mind the entire world seems quite amusing and entertaining.  No point hanging on to a stringent mindset and fretting about every fleeting thought that arises in the mind, isn't it?!

pada vigrahaH:
पिण्डे पिण्डे मतिः भिन्ना कुण्डे कुण्डे नवं पयः ।
piṇḍe piṇḍe matiḥ bhinnā kuṇḍe kuṇḍe navaṃ payaḥ ।

जातौ जातौ नव आचाराः नवा वाणी मुखे मुखे ॥
jātau jātau nava ācārāḥ navā vāṇī mukhe mukhe ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
piNDe piNDe matirbhinnaa kuNDe kuNDe navaM payaH ।
jaatau jaatau navaachaaraaH navaa vaaNI mukhe mukhe ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

piNDe piNDe matiH bhinnaa kuNDe kuNDe navaM payaH ।

jaatau jaatau nava aachaaraaH navaa vaaNI mukhe mukhe ॥

October 29th

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

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

naShTaM mRutam atikraantaM na anushochanti paNDitaaH ।

paNDitaanaaM cha mUrkhaaNaaM visheShaH ayaM yataH smRutaH ॥

September 24th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
आत्मानं रथिनं विद्धि शरीरं रथमेव च ।
बुद्धिं तु सारथिं विद्धि मनः प्रग्रहमेव च ॥
- कठोपनिषत्

Transliteration:
ātmānaṃ rathinaṃ viddhi śarīraṃ rathameva ca ।
buddhiṃ tu sārathiṃ viddhi manaḥ pragrahameva ca ॥
- kaṭhopaniṣat

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Know thyself as the traveler and body as the chariot. Perceive intellect as the charioteer and mind as its reins.

Commentary:

Who must be in charge? While riding in a chariot, who should have the final say? Should it be the chariot, the charioteer, the reins, or the horses! Actually, none of the above! The chariot, charioteer, and the horses—all of them are required to take instructions from the one traveling in the chariot. He is the one who knows his goal, his destination. So, he is the one who is required to know his path. 

The 5 senses are the horses and the sense objects are the various possible paths. One can take charge of his horses and lead them on the right track, or allow his horses to stray according to their own whims and fancies—choosing their own roads towards success or downfall. When this scenario can't procure great results, then how can allowing oneself to be led by one's senses be appropriate?!

Hearing only what pleases the ear will not end well. For, the ear wants to hear only praises! It doesn't want to heed any advice from anyone, whether valid or not.

Seeing only what pleases the eye isn't the best choice. For, the eye only likes to see what appeals, not the reality of things.

Letting the tongue taste all it wants can only bring harm to the person's health. Just because the tongue doesn't relish healthy food, one can't provide it with unhealthy, convenience food which is harmful in the long run. So on and so forth.

The best way is: to let the charioteer (intellect) have the reins (of the mind) in his control and make sure that the intellect listens to the traveler—the Self (finding this Self itself, is a quest of many lifetimes, with a much deeper import!)  Then, there will be no case of runaway horses or chariots and the traveler can safely reach his destination (attaining liberation).  When the charioteer is the Lord himself there is no doubt that the journey and the destination, become indisputable!

pada vigrahaH:
आत्मानं रथिनं विद्धि शरीरं रथम् एव च ।
ātmānaṃ rathinaṃ viddhi śarīraṃ ratham eva ca ।

बुद्धिं तु सारथिं विद्धि मनः प्रग्रहम् एव च ॥
buddhiṃ tu sārathiṃ viddhi manaḥ pragraham eva ca ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
aatmaanaM rathinaM viddhi sharIraM rathameva cha ।
buddhiM tu saarathiM viddhi manaH pragrahameva cha ॥
- kaThopaniShat

aatmaanaM rathinaM viddhi sharIraM ratham eva cha ।

buddhiM tu saarathiM viddhi manaH pragraham eva cha ॥

September 17th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सत्यानुसारिणी लक्ष्मीः कीर्तिस्त्यागानुसारिणी ।
अभ्याससारिणी विद्या बुद्धिः कर्मानुसारिणी ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
satyānusāriṇī lakṣmīḥ kīrtistyāgānusāriṇī ।
abhyāsasāriṇī vidyā buddhiḥ karmānusāriṇī ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Wealth follows truthfulness; fame follows benefaction; knowledge follows practice; intellect follows implementation (action).

Commentary:

Where there is honesty, Goddess Lakṣmī (Goddess of wealth) resides. Goddess Lakṣmī is known for her affinity for honesty and cleanliness. Where there is no honesty, prosperity might seem to reside tentatively. But in the long run, such a person is certain to end up paying the price, one way or another. It is better to let prosperity take its course by being truthful because 'wealth follows honesty'.

Both the good people and the bad people make it to the newspaper. But which one becomes famous and which one becomes infamous? The morality and the liberality of actions of the good person take him to fame because 'fame follows benefaction'.

Knowledge is not a ready dish to be served up for the taking. It comes only through practicing over and over again. Learning and relearning until one has perfected the knowledge is the only way to go because 'knowledge follows practice'.

Intellect is something that comes along with one's implementation of his knowledge. For example, an architect can think of how to design a given space meticulously. That intellect comes to him due to constantly thinking in that module and working toward it. Hence, 'intellect follows implementation'.

No shortcuts. Take the right path, and reap the right results!

pada vigrahaH:
सत्य-अनुसारिणी लक्ष्मीः कीर्तिः त्याग-अनुसारिणी ।
satya-anusāriṇī lakṣmīḥ kīrtiḥ tyāga-anusāriṇī ।

अभ्यास-सारिणी विद्या बुद्धिः कर्म-अनुसारिणी ॥
abhyāsa-sāriṇī vidyā buddhiḥ karma-anusāriṇī ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
satyaanusaariNI lakShmIH kIrtistyaagaanusaariNI ।
abhyaasasaariNI vidyaa buddhiH karmaanusaariNI ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

satya-anusaariNI lakShmIH kIrtiH tyaaga-anusaariNI ।

abhyaasa-saariNI vidyaa buddhiH karma-anusaariNI ॥

September 8th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
क्षन्तव्यो मन्दबुद्धीनाम् अपराधो मनीषिणा ।
न हि सर्वत्र पाण्डित्यं सुलभं पुरुषे क्वचित् ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:

kṣantavyo mandabuddhīnām aparādho manīṣiṇā ।
na hi sarvatra pāṇḍityaṃ sulabhaṃ puruṣe kvacit ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The follies of the dull-witted should be forgiven. For, erudition doesn't come easily to people everywhere.

Commentary:

Commonsense is not so common after all!  

Erudition and eloquence are divine blessings, not universally bestowed. Those fortunate enough to possess these gifts have little reason for pride, for intelligence is not an achievement but a grace granted. Equally, the learned must show patience toward the shortcomings of those less gifted, offering forgiveness where ignorance prevails. Scholarliness is but one of many virtues.

A wise person gains more insight from a foolish question than a fool gains from a wise answer. Learning is everywhere if we choose to see it. Even when faced with seemingly foolish questions, practice tolerance and compassion. Pray for the questioner’s growth in understanding and maturity, and take a moment to express gratitude for the wisdom you’ve been blessed with.

pada vigrahaH:
क्षन्तव्यः मन्द-बुद्धीनाम् अपराधः मनीषिणा ।
kṣantavyaḥ manda-buddhīnām aparādhaḥ manīṣiṇā ।

न हि सर्वत्र पाण्डित्यं सुलभं पुरुषे क्वचित् ॥
na hi sarvatra pāṇḍityaṃ sulabhaṃ puruṣe kvacit ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kShantavyo mandabuddhInaam aparaadho manIShiNaa ।
na hi sarvatra paaNDityaM sulabhaM puruShe kvachit ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

kShantavyaH manda-buddhInaam aparaadhaH manIShiNaa ।

na hi sarvatra paaNDityaM sulabhaM puruShe kvachit ॥

August 28th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
बुद्धिर्यस्य बलं तस्य निर्बुद्धेस्तु कुतो बलम् ।
वने सिंहो मदोन्मत्तः शशकेन निपातितः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
buddhiryasya balaṃ tasya nirbuddhestu kuto balam ।
vane siṃho madonmattaḥ śaśakena nipātitaḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

He who has wisdom has strength. Where is that strength for the foolish? The intoxicated lion in the forest got thrown down by the rabbit. (In the Panchatantra story of The Lion and the Rabbit.)

Commentary:

One doesn’t always need physical strength to overcome an opponent. Often, a bit of extra wisdom is all it takes to turn the tide in one’s favor. With the ability to think quickly and strategically, a person can navigate even the most challenging situations.

In a story from the Panchatantra, a small hare defeats a mighty lion through cleverness. The hare convinces the lion that another lion, claiming to be the true King of the Jungle, resides in a well. The lion, unable to recognize his own reflection in the water, leaps into the well to confront the "other" lion, ultimately meeting his demise.

Even physical power is rendered useless without wisdom. One must know how to wisely direct their strength, or else their efforts will be in vain.

Victory does not always belong to the strongest. It belongs to the wisest!

pada vigrahaH:
बुद्धिः यस्य बलं तस्य निर्-बुद्धेः तु कुतः बलम् ।
buddhiḥ yasya balaṃ tasya nir-buddheḥ tu kutaḥ balam ।

वने सिंहः मद-उन्मत्तः शशकेन निपातितः ॥
vane siṃhaḥ mada-unmattaḥ śaśakena nipātitaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
buddhiryasya balaM tasya nirbuddhestu kuto balam ।
vane siMho madonmattaH shashakena nipaatitaH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

buddhiH yasya balaM tasya nir-buddheH tu kutaH balam ।

vane siMhaH mada-unmattaH shashakena nipaatitaH ॥

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 ॥

August 13th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
काव्यशास्त्रविनोदेन कालो गच्छति धीमताम् ।
व्यसनेन तु मूर्खाणां निद्रया कलहेन वा ॥
- हितोपदेश


Transliteration:
kāvyaśāstravinodena kālo gacchati dhīmatām ।
vyasanena tu mūrkhāṇāṃ nidrayā kalahena vā ॥
- hitopadeśa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Intelligent people spend their time studying literature and scriptures for amusement, whereas the foolish (spend time indulging) in bad habits, sleeping, or quarreling.

Commentary:

'Favorite pastimes' vary for each individual based on their caliber. One's choice of activities is based on his interests.

The poet says he who is aware of the real purpose of life chooses to study literature and scriptures for his entertainment. He keeps himself occupied in productive activities rather than unwanted distractions. 

On the other hand, a foolish person entertains himself by being involved in petty quarrels, bad habits, or oversleeping. He is constantly distraught, displeased, and dissatisfied with his circumstances.  He easily passes the buck of blame onto someone else and gets into a dispute simply to satiate his ego.  There is no higher goal when one wants to boost his own futile efforts when he is clearly in the wrong.

One's choices give away his temperaments! Choose your hobbies carefully and may the pursuit behind them be justified.

pada vigrahaH:
काव्य-शास्त्र-विनोदेन कालः गच्छति धीमताम् ।
kāvya-śāstra-vinodena kālaḥ gacchati dhīmatām ।

व्यसनेन तु मूर्खाणां निद्रया कलहेन वा ॥
vyasanena tu mūrkhāṇāṃ nidrayā kalahena vā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kaavyashaastravinodena kaalo gachChati dhImataam ।
vyasanena tu mUrkhaaNaaM nidrayaa kalahena vaa ॥
- hitopadesha

kaavya-shaastra-vinodena kaalaH gachChati dhImataam ।

vyasanena tu mUrkhaaNaaM nidrayaa kalahena vaa ॥

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 ॥

August 8th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
इन्द्रियाणि च संयम्य बकवत् पण्डितो नरः ।
देशकालबलं ज्ञात्वा सर्वकार्याणि साधयेत् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
indriyāṇi ca saṃyamya bakavat paṇḍito naraḥ ।
deśakālabalaṃ jñātvā sarvakāryāṇi sādhayet ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Through restraining his senses like a stork, a learned person, aware of his space, time, and strengths, succeeds in all his tasks.

Commentary:

A stork stands still on one foot, without moving an inch, waiting patiently for its catch. Clearly, it is aware of the happenings around itself, yet restrains its senses. Its patience gets paid off eventually!

The same is done by an intelligent person. He is very aware of his surroundings but doesn't yield to the pleasures of his senses. He will not let his desires or weaknesses overpower his reasoning. He is flexible to changes, yet firm in his conviction. His awareness of his strengths and weaknesses, time and space—together contribute to his wisdom. His patience and perseverance pay off eventually!

Patience is waiting, not sitting still passively (that is laziness). To keep going when the going is slow and tedious, is patience. Patience is the companion of wisdom!

pada vigrahaH:
इन्द्रियाणि च संयम्य बकवत् पण्डितः नरः ।
indriyāṇi ca saṃyamya bakavat paṇḍitaḥ naraḥ ।

देश-काल-बलं ज्ञात्वा सर्व-कार्याणि साधयेत् ॥
deśa-kāla-balaṃ jñātvā sarva-kāryāṇi sādhayet ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
indriyaaNi cha saMyamya bakavat paNDito naraH ।
deshakaalabalaM j~naatvaa sarvakaaryaaNi saadhayet ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

indriyaaNi cha saMyamya bakavat paNDitaH naraH ।

desha-kaala-balaM j~naatvaa sarva-kaaryaaNi saadhayet ॥

July 28th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अग्निर्देवो द्विजातीनां मुनीनां हृदि दैवतम् ।
प्रतिमा स्वल्पबुद्धीनां सर्वत्र समदर्शिनः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
agnirdevo dvijātīnāṃ munīnāṃ hṛdi daivatam ।
pratimā svalpabuddhīnāṃ sarvatra samadarśinaḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

For the twice-born (brahmins), fire is God. For the ascetics, the Lord is in their hearts. For those with very little insight, it is in the statue. For those with equanimity, He is everywhere!

Commentary:

A person born as a Brahmin, is considered to have two births—first, when he actually takes birth, and second, after the sacred thread ceremony. For him, the rituals taught and imbibed are divine and he reveres them as God. The fire used in those rituals is God to him.

The ascetics carry the Lord in their hearts. They truly connect with their inner divine spirit. Everyone has the divine in their hearts, but a personal connection to it is what makes a world of difference.

Those with limited insight consider 'seeing' Him as seeing a statue of Him. They worship the statue with utmost reverence but do not translate that to the living world around them.

However, those with a sense of equanimity see God in everything and everywhere! They identify the divinity in each and everything/being around them. To them, God is not just in a statue, fire, or a ritual. He is in every aspect and form around them.  Every action they undertake is an offering to Him and every breath they breathe is His miracle!

How each one cognizes the Lord is entirely up to him. Each one perceives God as per his own spiritual maturity. Spiritual maturity is not attained with merely the passing of the years but by obedience to His will. 

pada vigrahaH:

अग्निः देवः द्विजातीनां मुनीनां हृदि दैवतम् ।
agniḥ devaḥ dvijātīnāṃ munīnāṃ hṛdi daivatam ।

प्रतिमा स्वल्प-बुद्धीनां सर्वत्र सम-दर्शिनः ॥
pratimā svalpa-buddhīnāṃ sarvatra sama-darśinaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
agnirdevo dvijaatInaaM munInaaM hRudi daivatam ।
pratimaa svalpabuddhInaaM sarvatra samadarshinaH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

agniH devaH dvijaatInaaM munInaaM hRudi daivatam ।

pratimaa svalpa-buddhInaaM sarvatra sama-darshinaH ॥

July 27th

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


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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

daaridrya-naashanaM daanaM shIlaM durgati-naashanam ।

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