November 7th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

माता मित्रं पिता चेति स्वभावात् त्रितयं हितम् ।

कार्यकारणतश्चान्ये भवन्ति हितबुद्धयः ॥

- हितोपदेश, मित्रलाभ

Transliteration:

mātā mitraṃ pitā ceti svabhāvāt tritayaṃ hitam ।

kāryakāraṇataścānye bhavanti hitabuddhayaḥ ॥

- hitopadeśa, mitralābha

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Mother, father, and friend—these 3 are well-wishers by nature.  The rest show seeming support due to an incidental motive.  

Commentary:

A true well-wisher is like a shadow, always by our side. Regardless of the circumstances, they are the ones who say, "Relax and rejuvenate. I’m here for you!" Starting from childhood, such unwavering supporters are only a handful: our Mother, our Father, and our Friend (could be one or many). 

Parents wish only well for their children, even before they are born.  They take care of their every small need, without even being asked.  Even after the children grow up and become adults, parents wish them only happiness and strive to give them comfort in every way.  

Then, there are those we meet by chance and become friends by choice. They become the family we create. Through thick and thin, their support transcends time, distance, and even silence. While parents may one day be gone, true friends remain, always wishing the best for us.

Yet, life teaches us a hard truth—not everyone who speaks kindly is a true well-wisher. Some may offer sweet words, but their motives are self-serving, and fade once their needs are fulfilled. Though we may choose to believe them for the moment, we must remain vigilant and aware of their true intentions.

The key to a fulfilling life lies in discerning who truly wishes us well. Knowing whom to lean on is integral to living a happy and successful life.

pada vigrahaH:

माता मित्रं पिता च इति स्वभावात् त्रितयं हितम् ।

mātā mitraṃ pitā ca iti svabhāvāt tritayaṃ hitam ।

कार्य-कारणतः च अन्ये भवन्ति हित-बुद्धयः ॥

kārya-kāraṇataḥ ca anye bhavanti hita-buddhayaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

maataa mitraM pitaa cheti svabhaavaat tritayaM hitam |

kaaryakaaraNatashchaanye bhavanti hitabuddhayaH ||

- hitopadeSa, mitralaabha

maataa mitraM pitaa cha iti svabhaavaat tritayaM hitam |

kaarya-kaaraNataH cha anye bhavanti hita-buddhayaH ||

October 6th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

यथैवात्मा तथा पुत्रः पुत्रेण दुहिता समा ।

तस्यामात्मनि तिष्ठन्त्यां कथमन्यो धनं हरेत् ॥

- मनुस्मृति

Transliteration:

yathaivātmā tathā putraḥ putreṇa duhitā samā ।

tasyāmātmani tiṣṭhantyāṃ kathamanyo dhanaṃ haret ॥

- manusmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

As is oneself, so is his son.  As is a son, so is a daughter.  When a daughter, an apparent existence of oneself is present, how can others snatch her inheritance? 

Commentary:

Equality in everything!  A son is no less than his father. A daughter stands on equal footing with her brother. Thus, a daughter holds the same value as her father. When she is present, how can someone else dare claim what is rightfully hers?!

In a just world, the passing of parents should mark the beginning of equality among siblings, not bigotry. Everything they leave behind, such as their wealth and legacy should be shared equally amongst all children—sons and daughters alike. A mother and father endure no fewer hardships to bring a daughter into the world than they do a son. Their love and effort in raising each child knows no difference based on gender. Yet, in a chauvinistic society still shackled by outdated beliefs, one gender is elevated above the other, leaving the other to fight for what should have been freely given. This bias is so ingrained that it permeates every level of primitive society.

Yet, this verse from a very ancient text of sanātana dharma speaks of a society guided by true dharma, where daughters are given equal standing with sons. In a society rooted in dharma, daughters and sons stand as equals, each entitled to the same share of love, opportunity, and inheritance! Based on gender, no one may seize what belongs to another.

The ancient wisdom of sanātana dharma embodies true empowerment, where women's rights are not an afterthought but an intrinsic truth, woven into the fabric of the culture itself. Sanātana—meaning "ever fresh" or "ever relevant"—reminds us that justice and equality are timeless. Our ancestors built a world where women did not have to clamor for attention or fight for their rights—they were honored as they deserved!

It is time to awaken from a slumber of ignorance and revive the noble ideals they cherished. A society that truly thrives must embrace this truth:

Men's rights are nothing more. Women's rights are nothing less.

pada vigrahaH:

यथा एव आत्मा तथा पुत्रः पुत्रेण दुहिता समा ।

yathā eva ātmā tathā putraḥ putreṇa duhitā samā ।

तस्याम् आत्मनि तिष्ठन्त्यां कथम् अन्यः धनं हरेत् ॥

tasyām ātmani tiṣṭhantyāṃ katham anyaḥ dhanaṃ haret ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

yathaivaatmaa tathaa putraH putreNa duhitaa samaa |

tasyaamaatmani tiShThantyaaM kathamanyo dhanaM haret ||

- manusmRuti

yathaa eva aatmaa tathaa putraH putreNa duhitaa samaa |

tasyaam aatmani tiShThantyaaM katham anyaH dhanaM haret ||

October 5th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

पितृभिर्भ्रातृभिश्चैताः पतिभिर्देवरैस्तथा ।

पूज्या भूषयितव्याश्च बहुकल्याणमीप्सुभिः ॥ 

- मनुस्मृति

Transliteration:

pitṛbhirbhrātṛbhiścaitāḥ patibhirdevaraistathā ।

pūjyā bhūṣayitavyāśca bahukalyāṇamīpsubhiḥ ॥

- manusmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Women should be cherished and honored by fathers, brothers, husbands, and brothers-in-law, as those seeking to attain abundant prosperity for themselves.

Commentary:

The measure of any society is how it treats its women and girls! 

Irrespective of what name it goes by, every relationship with a woman demands the utmost respect. Whether she is a daughter, sister, wife, or sister-in-law, each connection comes with its own unique expectations and boundaries. Yet, one principle remains constant across them all: honor and respect. (By nature, a mother commands respect. Hence not addressed in this verse.)   

This is the essence of true morality, a virtue possessed by superior men—those worthy of being called gentlemen. Every person owes their existence to a woman, and with that comes a fundamental truth: no one has the right to treat any woman with disrespect.

Rather than trying to fit women into the existing framework of society, it is time to reshape the world to be worthy of them. When women are treated with respect and reverence, we honor the core of creation itself. A home or society where women are neglected or mistreated has forfeited the right to call itself civilized.

In households where women are cherished, prosperity naturally follows. A woman who feels honored and valued will go beyond her limits to nurture, uplift, and inspire everyone around her. This is why the age-old saying holds: “Behind every successful man is a woman.”

Respecting women is not just an option for gentlemen—it must be their highest priority!

pada vigrahaH:

पितृभिः भ्रातृभिः च एताः पतिभिः देवरैः तथा ।

pitṛbhiḥ bhrātṛbhiḥ ca etāḥ patibhiḥ devaraiḥ tathā ।

पूज्या भूषयितव्याः च बहु-कल्याणम् ईप्सुभिः ॥

pūjyā bhūṣayitavyāḥ ca bahu-kalyāṇam īpsubhiḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

pitRubhirbhraatRubhishchaitaaH patibhirdevaraistathaa |

pUjyaa bhUShayitavyaashcha bahukalyaaNamIpsubhiH ||

- manusmRuti

pitRubhiH bhraatRubhiH cha etaaH patibhiH devaraiH tathaa |

pUjyaa bhUShayitavyaaH cha bahu-kalyaaNam IpsubhiH ||

September 27th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

नमस्कृत्य वदामि त्वां यदि पुण्यं मया कृतम् ।

अन्यस्यामपि जात्यां मे त्वमेव जननी भव ॥

- ऊरुभङ्ग 

Transliteration:

namaskṛtya vadāmi tvāṃ yadi puṇyaṃ mayā kṛtam ।

anyasyāmapi jātyāṃ me tvameva jananī bhava ॥

- ūrubhaṅga 

Meaning of the subhAShita:

O Mother!  I prostrate to you and utter (these words)—if at all I have carried out any meritorious deeds (in my life), may you become my mother in all my future births too!   

 

Commentary:

The backstory is crucial for grasping the depth of this touching verse. It is spoken by the antagonist Duryodhana in poet Bhāsa's work, Ūrubhaṅga. This moment captures the agony following the shattering of Duryodhana's thigh by Bhīma during the Mahābhārata war.

Overwhelmed by his suffering and in his intense distress due to unbearable pain, Duryodhana found himself imploring Death to hasten his end. Yet, even amidst such torment, his thoughts turned to his mother. Fleeting memories of his childhood danced before his eyes, evoking the tender moments he spent with her. In that vulnerable moment, he cried out, “If I have ever performed any good deeds in my life, may their merit grant me the blessing of having you as my mother in all my future births!”

Duryodhana, well aware of his many misdeeds throughout his life, faced a profound realization. As he reflected on his actions, he recognized that the tally of his virtuous deeds was painfully scant. Even if just a handful existed, he longed to exchange those meager merits for the opportunity to be reunited with the same mother, regardless of the form he might take in the next life.

A mother’s love is unconditional, nurturing, and profound. Even a wayward son like Duryodhana recognized the depth of his mother’s affection, yearning for that bond in every life, showcasing the vastness of maternal dedication.

As the heart of the family, a mother’s love is selfless and demands nothing in return, surpassing all earthly forces. A mother embodies the ideal of motherhood, occupying an irreplaceable place in her children’s lives. The bond between mother and child is eternal.

Those who are fortunate enough to have experienced this profound connection are truly blessed. The love between a mother and child is a timeless treasure, enduring through every trial and triumph in life.  A child can't outgrow it and a mother can't conceal it!  

pada vigrahaH:

नमस्कृत्य वदामि त्वां यदि पुण्यं मया कृतम् ।

namaskṛtya vadāmi tvāṃ yadi puṇyaṃ mayā kṛtam ।

अन्यस्याम् अपि जात्यां मे त्वम् एव जननी भव ॥

anyasyām api jātyāṃ me tvam eva jananī bhava ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

namaskRutya vadaami tvaaM yadi puṇyaṃ mayaa kRutam ।

anyasyaamapi jaatyaaM me tvameva jananI bhava ॥

- Urubha~nga, bhaasa

namaskRutya vadaami tvaaM yadi puṇyaṃ mayaa kRutam ।

anyasyaam api jaatyaaM me tvam eva jananI bhava ॥

June 17th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
कन्यादाताऽन्नदाता च ज्ञानदाताऽभयप्रदः ।
जन्मदो मन्त्रदो ज्येष्ठभ्राता च पितरः स्मृतः ॥

Transliteration:
kanyādātā'nnadātā ca jñānadātā'bhayapradaḥ ।
janmado mantrado jyeṣṭhabhrātā ca pitaraḥ smṛtaḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

One who gives his daughter in marriage; one who provides food; one who bestows knowledge; one who guards against fear; one who gives birth; one who bestows counsel; one (brother) who is born ahead of you—all these (luminaries) are deemed as fathers.

Commentary:

It is said that there is no other need in childhood as strong as the need for protection from a father! Fathers are revered for their many contributions along the various facets of life starting with—giving life, caring, and nurturing.  He propitiates the child into new beginnings time and again. He is the one who invigorates his young ones to explore life and then helps formulate their future.  The greatest gift any father can give his child is—believing in the child!  He instills trust in the child.

The poet says that one comes across many such fatherly figures during his lifetime. They are

• the one who gives his daughter's hand in marriage. The father-in-law trusts and bequeaths his daughter to her husband.  She bears progeny for her husband, making him a father.  Veneration for that.
• the one who provides food and tends to one's hunger.  This is a fatherly gesture for sure. Respect to him.
• the one who bestows knowledge gives birth to a new perspective in the intellect of the person.  He contributes to the person's growth and is therefore exalted to the stature of a father.
• the one who guards against fear and reassures the faith that all will be well! Admiration to him.
• the one who gives birth is certainly revered.  If not for him, one wouldn't be here speaking about who to revere!! The care and nurture given by him are irreplaceable. Love and respect for him is a given.
• the one who bestows counsel and guides in the right direction like a father. Honor to him.
• the one who is born ahead of us (an elder brother), is nothing less than a father as he steps up to be a father figure! If one is afraid to approach his father for anything, it is easier to approach the elder brother. Cherish him.

A father is someone you look up to no matter how tall you grow! These aforementioned magnanimous personalities shape a person from childhood on.  

Fathers are honored always for their roles and contributions to our lives!  Obeisance to them.

pada vigrahaH:
कन्यादाता अन्नदाता च ज्ञानदाता अभयप्रदः ।
kanyādātā annadātā ca jñānadātā abhayapradaḥ ।

जन्मदः मन्त्रदः ज्येष्ठ-भ्राता च पितरः स्मृतः ॥
janmadaḥ mantradaḥ jyeṣṭha-bhrātā ca pitaraḥ smṛtaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kanyaadaataa.nnadaataa cha j~naanadaataa.bhayapradaH ।
janmado mantrado jyeShThabhraataa cha pitaraH smRutaH ॥

kanyaadaataa annadaataa cha j~naanadaataa abhayapradaH ।

janmadaH mantradaH jyeShTha-bhraataa cha pitaraH smRutaH ॥

July 6th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पितृभिस्ताडितः पुत्रः शिष्यस्तु गुरुशिक्षितः ।
घनाहतं सुवर्णञ्च प्राप्यते जनमण्डनम् ॥

Transliteration:
pitṛbhistāḍitaḥ putraḥ śiṣyastu guruśikṣitaḥ ।
ghanāhataṃ suvarṇañca prāpyate janamaṇḍanam ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A son (child) disciplined by his parents, students trained by a teacher, intensely clobbered gold—all these attain praiseworthiness.   

Commentary:

By nature, children are, curious.  They are curious not just about the world around them but also regarding their boundaries—of what they should or shouldn't do.  Their inquisitive minds want to see how far they can push.  Many times, despite knowing the dos and don'ts, they may still want to try their luck.  At that point, it becomes essential for the parents, teachers, or whoever is their guiding figure, to give them the proper direction.  If the people who must guide the children end up cushioning their follies to avoid making them sad, they would be doing a disservice to them!

As it is said, 'Do not prepare the road for your children; prepare your children for the road!'  When real-life issues strike, better-prepared children will recover sooner even if they fall.

In reality, both parents and teachers strive to imbibe excellence in children.  The sayings go as—पुत्रादिच्छेत् पराजयम् (putrādicchet parājayam) and शिष्यादिच्छेत् पराजयम् (śiṣyādicchet parājayam).  This means that parents desire defeat from their children and gurus yearn for defeat from their students!  In fact, the whole reason why they put so much effort into guiding the youngsters is to see them surpass themselves!

The example given in the verse is that of gold.  Gold, when first mined, is dull and lustreless.  The goldsmith melts it, beats it repeatedly on the anvil, and shapes it.  Only then does it gain its luster as well as value!  Similarly, children who are disciplined and shaped with values from a young age accrue praiseworthy traits that will make them happier adults later.  Hence, it is of paramount importance for parents as well as teachers, to equip their children and students with this quintessential skill.

Discipline is the bridge that connects goals to accomplishments. Be that essential bridge, enabling future generations to achieve their aspirations!

pada vigrahaH:
पितृभिः ताडितः पुत्रः शिष्यः तु गुरु-शिक्षितः ।
pitṛbhiḥ tāḍitaḥ putraḥ śiṣyaḥ tu guru-śikṣitaḥ ।

घन आहतं सुवर्णं च प्राप्यते जन-मण्डनम् ॥
ghana āhataṃ suvarṇaṃ ca prāpyate jana-maṇḍanam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
pitRubhistaaDitaH putraH shiShyastu gurushikShitaH ।
ghanaahataM suvarNa~ncha praapyate janamaNDanam ॥

pitRubhiH taaDitaH putraH shiShyaH tu guru-shikShitaH ।

ghana aahataM suvarNaM cha praapyate jana-maNDanam ॥

June 16th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
ज्येष्ठो भ्राता पिता चैव यश्च विद्यां प्रयच्छति ।
त्रयस्ते पितरो ज्ञेयाः धर्मे वर्त्मनि वर्तिनः ॥
-रामायण, किष्किन्धा

Transliteration:

jyeṣṭho bhrātā pitā caiva yaśca vidyāṃ prayacchati ।
trayaste pitaro jñeyāḥ dharme vartmani vartinaḥ ॥
-rāmāyaṇa, kiṣkindhā

Meaning of the subhAShita:

An elder brother, the father himself, and he who gives knowledge—these three are to be perceived (respected) as fathers by those on the path of virtue.

Commentary:

Father, as we know by definition, is the man who gives birth. He is to be respected and revered always! In one's life, many such father figures are encountered too.  The poet says

• an elder brother, who protects, nurtures, and guides his siblings, is also equivalent to a father. 
• the biological father is definitely revered for all the tending and selfless love he showers on his children!  
• a guru who imparts knowledge and gives birth to a new perspective in a person is also to be revered as a father! (Especially spiritual gurus and guides.  They help one absolve his ignorance and lead him on the path of ultimate knowledge).

Hence, those on the path of virtue find many such father figures to whom they offer veneration and obeisance throughout their lives. Many times, it may not be expressed in so many words, but that gratitude and high regard for them shall linger in the hearts of the virtuous forever!

May we all be blessed with such father figures and their guidance always!

pada vigrahaH:
ज्येष्ठः भ्राता पिता च एव यः च विद्यां प्रयच्छति ।
jyeṣṭhaḥ bhrātā pitā ca eva yaḥ ca vidyāṃ prayacchati ।

त्रयः ते पितरः ज्ञेया धर्मे वर्त्मनि वर्तिनः ॥
trayaḥ te pitaraḥ jñeyā dharme vartmani vartinaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
jyeShTho bhraataa pitaa chaiva yashcha vidyaaM prayachChati ।
trayaste pitaro j~neyaaH dharme vartmani vartinaH ॥
-raamaayaNa, kiShkindhaa

jyeShThaH bhraataa pitaa cha eva yaH cha vidyaaM prayachChati ।

trayaH te pitaraH j~neyaaH dharme vartmani vartinaH ॥

May 27th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु मातृरूपेण संस्थिता ।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः ॥

Transliteration:

yā devī sarvabhūteṣu mātṛrūpeṇa saṃsthitā ।
namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namaḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

To that Goddess who is residing in all beings in the form of the mother, I bow, salute, pray, and prostrate to her!

Commentary:

Once, a little girl was asked where her home was, and she replied matter-of-factly: "Where my mother is!" Such a simple yet profound truth! A home is where the heart resides, and the heart is where the mother is. Indeed, "Mother" is the name of God spoken with reverence by little children. It is often said, "Because God could not be everywhere, He created mothers."

A mother does far more than give birth. She nestles and nourishes her child, nursing and nurturing them throughout life. A newborn, oblivious to the world’s complexities, is guided by the mother’s gentle hand. She teaches the first words, instills values, and helps discern right from wrong. Her heart is a beacon of unconditional love, extending not just to her children but to all children.

This divine phenomenon of motherhood transcends species. Even in creatures that lay eggs and leave, or in those that abandon their young, there remains an innate instinct to protect and prepare. A mother bird carefully chooses the safest spot for her eggs, and a lioness ensures her cubs are equipped for survival before stepping away. Such nurturing is nature’s design, a universal trait of motherhood.

No matter the gender of the caregiver, affection of this kind is always described as motherly love. This makes the mother synonymous with nurturing itself. 

Recognizing this divine element in all forms of motherly care, the poet humbly bows in reverence to the universal spirit of motherhood.

Reverence to thee, O Mother! Reverence to thee!

pada vigrahaH:
या देवी सर्व-भूतेषु मातृ-रूपेण संस्थिता ।
yā devī sarva-bhūteṣu mātṛ-rūpeṇa saṃsthitā ।

नमः तस्यै नमः तस्यै नमः तस्यै नमो नमः ॥
namaḥ tasyai namaḥ tasyai namaḥ tasyai namo namaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

yaa devI sarvabhUteShu maatRurUpeNa saMsthitaa ।

namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namaH ॥

yaa devI sarva bhUteShu maatRu rUpeNa saMsthitaa ।

namaH tasyai namaH tasyai namaH tasyai namo namaH ॥

September 11th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सर्वतीर्थमयी माता सर्वदेवमयः पिता ।
मातरं पितरं तस्मात् सर्वयत्नेन पूजयेत् ॥

Transliteration:
sarvatīrthamayī mātā sarvadevamayaḥ pitā ।
mātaraṃ pitaraṃ tasmāt sarvayatnena pūjayet ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A mother is an embodiment of all pilgrimages, (and) a father is an embodiment of all deities. Hence, revere mother and father with all efforts.

Commentary:

Everyone desires good karmaphala (the fruits of their actions). To attain the same virtues as visiting all the holy places, one need only revere their mother. A father embodies all the deities, as he is the reason we exist in this world. It’s hard to imagine life without their nurture and care. Parents continually strive to give their children the best they can offer. There is no better well-wisher than parents!

That is why even Lord Gaṇeśa, the remover of all obstacles, bowed to His parents! In a challenge posed by His parents, Lord Subrahmaṇya and Gaṇeśa were tasked with who could circumambulate the entire world first. Lord Subrahmaṇya immediately took off on His peacock, ready to circle the entire world. But Gaṇeśa, aware of His own speed, circled His parents, Pārvatī and Parameśvara, and prostrated before them. He had won the challenge! While parents may cherish their children, for children parents are the world.

Children are the most precious resource and the greatest hope for the future. Let parents pass on to their children, not wealth, but the spirit of reverence. May love and respect be the foundation of parenting. May children always honor their parents with devotion!

pada vigrahaH:
सर्व-तीर्थमयी माता सर्व-देवमयः पिता ।
sarva-tīrthamayī mātā sarva-devamayaḥ pitā ।

मातरं पितरं तस्मात् सर्व-यत्नेन पूजयेत् ॥
mātaraṃ pitaraṃ tasmāt sarva-yatnena pūjayet ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sarvatIrthamayI maataa sarvadevamayaH pitaa ।
maataraM pitaraM tasmaat sarvayatnena pUjayet ॥

sarva-tIrthamayI maataa sarva-devamayaH pitaa ।

maataraM pitaraM tasmaat sarva-yatnena pUjayet ॥

September 1st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यशोदया समा कापि देवता नास्ति भूतले ।
उलूखले यया बद्धः मुक्तिदो मुक्तिमिच्छति ॥

Transliteration:
yaśodayā samā kāpi devatā nāsti bhūtale ।
ulūkhale yayā baddhaḥ muktido muktimicchati ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

There is no deity on this earth equal to Yaśodā. He who liberates everyone is pleading with her to release him from the mortar that she tied him to!!

Commentary:

Who else can claim that they had tied down the very person who is the liberator of all worlds?! Only Lord Krishna's mother Yaśodā can! Although she did not give birth to Him, she enjoyed the best of his childhood years!! She rocked Him to sleep, she held Him when He was hurt (or pretended to be hurt), she fed Him when He was hungry, and she watched Him when He playfully bothered the gopi-s of Vṛndāvana. She watched Him drink milk, and she caught Him stealing butter. She watched Him in His sleep, she kept an eye on Him when He was naughty. She hugged Him with love, and she punished Him when he was mischievous too!!

Once, she even tied Him up with a rope to a mortar, as she could not bear to hear any more complaints from the villagers about His mischiefs. The puppeteer that He is, He pretended to be bothered by the ropes and begged her to relieve Him of the ties! 

He who liberates one and all, from all kinds of bondage, implored Yaśodā to release Him!! Isn't she the most envied of all beings! She had one blissful and blessed life, where she enjoyed motherhood of the ultimate order!

It is said that the Lord takes incarnations and comes to Earth especially to experience motherly love!! Such is the greatness of a mother's affection—boundless, selfless, and pure, it nurtures and sustains life, a true reflection of divine love in this mortal world.

pada vigrahaH:
यशोदया समा का अपि देवता न अस्ति भूतले ।
yaśodayā samā kā api devatā na asti bhūtale ।

उलूखले यया बद्धः मुक्तिदः मुक्तिम् इच्छति ॥
ulūkhale yayā baddhaḥ muktidaḥ muktim icchati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yashodayaa samaa kaapi devataa naasti bhUtale ।
ulUkhale yayaa baddhaH muktido muktimichChati ॥

yashodayaa samaa kaa api devataa na asti bhUtale ।

ulUkhale yayaa baddhaH muktidaH muktim ichChati ॥

July 26th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
कामधेनुगुणाविद्या ह्यकाले फलदायिनी ।
प्रवासे मातृसदृशी विद्या गुप्‍तं धनं स्मृतम् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
kāmadhenuguṇāvidyā hyakāle phaladāyinī ।
pravāse mātṛsadṛśī vidyā gup‍taṃ dhanaṃ smṛtam ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Knowledge (vidyā) has the attributes of kāmadhenu (the celestial cow, that grants all wishes) and bears fruit in inopportune times too. It (knowledge) is equivalent to a mother when away from home.  Knowledge is deemed to be a hidden stash of wealth.

Commentary:

There is no scarcity of subhāṣitas on vidyā. In this one, the poet says vidyā is like kāmadhenu, the celestial cow that grants all wishes. It gives one the means to achieve anything he desires! How he puts it to use is up to him! One can use his vidyā to attain more money, fame, name, or better yet, Mukti (salvation). 

Knowledge is compared to a mother who nurtures because knowledge fosters one's thinking. Just as a mother's proximity gives a safe haven to her child, so does knowledge give confidence. The confidence gained through knowledge makes one feel at ease even when in a foreign land. Unfamiliar grounds can be trodden with surety when armed with a weapon called knowledge. It is an invisible treasure chest that keeps providing one with the tools as and when needed but it can't be stolen by anyone. It is all his own to keep forever!

Knowledge is power. Equip yourself with it!

pada vigrahaH:
कामधेनु-गुणा-विद्या हि अकाले फल-दायिनी ।
kāmadhenu-guṇā-vidyā hi akāle phala-dāyinī ।

प्रवासे मातृ-सदृशी विद्या गुप्‍तं धनं स्मृतम् ॥
pravāse mātṛ-sadṛśī vidyā gup‍taṃ dhanaṃ smṛtam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kaamadhenuguNaavidyaa hyakaale phaladaayinI ।
pravaase maatRusadRushI vidyaa guptaM dhanaM smRutam ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

kaamadhenu-guNaa-vidyaa hi akaale phala-daayinI ।

pravaase maatRu-sadRushI vidyaa guptaM dhanaM smRutam ॥

July 19th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
राजपत्नी गुरोः पत्नी मित्रपत्नी तथैव च ।
पत्नीमाता स्वमाता च पञ्चैता मातरः स्मृताः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
rājapatnī guroḥ patnī mitrapatnī tathaiva ca ।
patnīmātā svamātā ca pañcaitā mātaraḥ smṛtāḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A king's wife, teacher's wife, friend's wife, wife's mother, and his own (birth) mother: these 5 should be deemed as mother figures.

Commentary:

It is said, 'God couldn't be everywhere, so he made mothers!'  In a lifetime, one doesn't come across just one mother but many who fill that role. Hence, all of them deserve the same reverence as their own mother.

1. A leader or king protects and prospers the nation. He is revered as the father of his subjects. His wife is respected as a mother because she walks hand in hand with him for the welfare of the land.
2. A teacher guides and makes a person an able being. In the olden days, students lived at their teacher's house until learning was completed. The wife of the teacher fed them and showed affection to them just as a mother would. She is revered for her tending and affection.
3. A friend is a trusted person who stands by through thick and thin. Can that trust be repaid by disrespecting his wife? The highest position of honor one can give is that of a mother. Hence, the friend's wife is given this honor.
4. The mother of one's own wife is given this utmost regard. This is because the wife instills values in the entire family. All that she has learnt is through her mother. She passes on the teaching to her children in the household. Veneration to the wife's mother is for teaching ethics to his wife and giving away the daughter that she had nurtured so diligently!
5. If one says giving the highest order of reverence to others is that of a mother, what to speak of his own mother! She is the one who nurtures him in her womb, gives birth to him, tends to him, teaches him life's essence, instills ethics in him, and gives direction to his life. She does pretty much everything in her capacity to make sure that her child is secure and ready to take on life! Respecting her is not an option, it is natural! There are no words or deeds with which one can repay his mother. All one can do is imbibe her values, be the person she intended him to be, and be eternally grateful to her!

Like they say, 'It takes a village to raise a child'! All these roles of mothers contribute significantly. 'Beings are what their mothers made them'. Mothers are always held in the highest esteem!

pada vigrahaH:
राज-पत्नी गुरोः पत्नी मित्र-पत्नी तथ एव च ।
rāja-patnī guroḥ patnī mitra-patnī tatha eva ca ।

पत्नी-माता स्व-माता च पञ्च एताः मातरः स्मृताः ॥
patnī-mātā sva-mātā ca pañca etāḥ mātaraḥ smṛtāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
raajapatnI guroH patnI mitrapatnI tathaiva cha ।
patnImaataa svamaataa cha pa~nchaitaa maataraH smRutaaH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

raaja-patnI guroH patnI mitra-patnI tatha eva cha ।

patnI-maataa sva-maataa cha pa~ncha etaaH maataraH smRutaaH ॥

June 24th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दर्शनध्यानसंस्पर्शैः मत्सी कूर्मी च पक्षिणी ।
शिशुं पालयते नित्यं तथा सज्जनसङ्गतिः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
darśanadhyānasaṃsparśaiḥ matsī kūrmī ca pakṣiṇī ।
śiśuṃ pālayate nityaṃ tathā sajjanasaṅgatiḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Just like the fish, by watching over; turtle, through contemplation; birds, by incubation—take care of their young, (people) should protect their children by keeping them in good company, at all times.

Commentary:

Most animals are known to give birth to their offspring and after a short period of nurture, they leave them to fend for themselves. But during those nurturing stages, they take the utmost care, almost as if there is nothing else in the world they would rather do!

• Fish keep a constant watch over their eggs till they hatch.
• Turtles lay their eggs and are done with childcare. But, even then, they carefully contemplate their predators' actions and select the safest spot for the eggs. They dig a hole in a spot that best suits their young to grow and hatch.
• Birds incubate their eggs.  They protect them from harsh climatic conditions and predators as well. They even feed and nurture them until their wings are strong enough to fly by themselves. 

If not, the young shall lose the battle of life before it even begins! However, all these—animals, birds, and fish alike, let go of their young! A human is the only being who shelters, nurtures, and pampers his offspring for the longest duration! 

Is a parent's job done if he builds a home and feeds his children?! This would only protect children from harsh climates and starvation. Shouldn't that be sufficient for the well-being of the child?! The maturity at which humans work requires more than mere physical protection and food for nourishment! They also need intellectual and spiritual growth. 

How is that done? How does one provide nourishment for the mind and the intellect?  By always keeping them in good company! This not only aids positive growth of the mind but also protects them from going on a negative path. It is a win-win situation. Good company is the only insurance that assures to keep one's offspring safe and sound in either harsh or friendly environments at all times.  This equips the children to learn to deal with life on their own once they are out of the nest, so to speak.

Hence, at all costs, parents should strive to keep their children in good company, beginning with themselves!  They have to be the good company to their own children. The best protective shield they can provide their children is—teaching them to seek and enjoy the company of noble people!

No road is long with good company because good company is the shortest and easiest route in the journey of life. Find your shortcuts (good company) and aid your children in finding theirs.

pada vigrahaH:
दर्शन-ध्यान-संस्पर्शैः मत्सी कूर्मी च पक्षिणी ।
darśana-dhyāna-saṃsparśaiḥ matsī kūrmī ca pakṣiṇī ।

शिशुं पालयते नित्यं तथा सज्जन-सङ्गतिः ॥
śiśuṃ pālayate nityaṃ tathā sajjana-saṅgatiḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
darshanadhyaanasaMsparshaiH matsI kUrmI cha pakShiNI ।
shishuM paalayate nityaM tathaa sajjanasa~ngatiH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

darshana-dhyaana-saMsparshaiH matsI kUrmI cha pakShiNI ।

shishuM paalayate nityaM tathaa sajjana-sa~ngatiH ॥

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 14th

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

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

putraaH cha vividhaiH shIlaiH niyojyaaH satataM budhaiH ।

nItij~naaH shIla-sampannaaH bhavanti kula-pUjitaaH ॥

June 10th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
नान्नोदकसमं दानं न तिथिर्द्वादशी समा ।
न गायत्र्याः परो मन्त्रः न मातुः परं दैवतम् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
nānnodakasamaṃ dānaṃ na tithirdvādaśī samā ।
na gāyatryāḥ paro mantraḥ na mātuḥ paraṃ daivatam ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

There is no giving better than of food and water; there is no time better than the twelfth day of the lunar month (dvādaśī); there is no formula of prayer better than the gāyatrī mantra; (and) there is no deity better than a mother.

Commentary:

Food and water are the best types of offerings to a hungry man. No amount of wealth can quench his thirst and hunger at that moment. When he is satiated, he heartily blesses the giver.  Hence the statement, 'annadātā sukhībhava' (Oh! giver of food, may you attain happiness), is coined.

Among all days in a month, the twelfth day of the lunar calendar, dvādaśī, is considered very auspicious. Any tasks undertaken on that day are bound to be fruitful.

Among all mantras, the 'gāyatrī mantra' is deemed the most sacred of all. It kindles the intellect which eventually leads to all other realizations.

A mother is considered better than any other deity! All the deities cannot come and reside with each and every child. Hence, the Lord appoints a mother to take His place in each home. A mother takes care of the entire family, pays attention to the smallest of their needs, and protects them against all impending calamities. She puts her family as her first and foremost priority, even ahead of her own needs. What works for one family may not be suitable for another. A mother knows exactly what is best for her family and is constantly working towards their betterment.

Someone once said, "The term 'working mother' is redundant!" The term 'mother' already implies that she is working!! She never really leaves her children at home, even when she does not take them along with her. Meaning—she is carrying them around in her heart always!

Love your mother as trees love water and sunshine.  She nourishes you to grow, prosper, and reach new heights! Her love is like a circle—it has no beginning or ending. 

pada vigrahaH:
न अन्न उदक-समं दानं न तिथिः द्वादशी समा ।
na anna udaka-samaṃ dānaṃ na tithiḥ dvādaśī samā ।

न गायत्र्याः परः मन्त्रः न मातुः परं दैवतम् ॥
na gāyatryāḥ paraḥ mantraḥ na mātuḥ paraṃ daivatam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
naannodakasamaM daanaM na tithirdvaadashI samaa ।
na gaayatryaaH paro mantraH na maatuH paraM daivatam ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

na anna udaka-samaM daanaM na tithiH dvaadashI samaa ।

na gaayatryaaH paraH mantraH na maatuH paraM daivatam ॥

June 5th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
न माता शपते पुत्रं न दोषं लभते मही ।
न हिंसां कुरुते साधुः न देवः सृष्टिनाशकः ॥
-सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
na mātā śapate putraṃ na doṣaṃ labhate mahī ।
na hiṃsāṃ kurute sādhuḥ na devaḥ sṛṣṭināśakaḥ ॥
-subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A mother will never curse her child, no blemish will taint the earth, the noble do not harm others, God will not destroy His creation.

Commentary:

A mother does everything in her power and even beyond to make her children better than she ever was. She will work beyond her means, investing both her heart and effort. After all that, could she ever have the heart to curse her child? The best well-wisher a child could ever have is his mother!

Mother Earth is considered the most forgiving. No matter how much man exploits her, she has tolerance. In recent times, we hear slogans everywhere—save the earth! Truth is, in a few centuries from now, the earth will still be here. It is the human species that needs saving from making itself extinct by abusing the resources! No amount of extortion will blemish the earth.

Those who are truly noble from the bottom of their hearts will never inflict harm on others. They are ever-compassionate and work tirelessly towards the betterment of those around them. How can such people involve themselves in hurting others?!

Likewise, God never destroys his own creation! All the natural calamities, apocalypses, etc., might look like destruction but in reality, it is dissolution. He does everything with a higher good in mind. There is always something better to come one way or another. He will take care of everyone here and hereafter! Our ignorance about this fact doesn't mean that God is destroying His own creation. Just as a mother won't hurt her child, God, the creator of the whole universe, won't put a dent in his creation with destructive intent. Everything dissolves and when the right time comes, everything resolves too! 

Faith is trusting God even when you don't understand His plan. He is there to protect the smallest insect, to the largest of creatures. Keep the faith! 

pada vigrahaH:
न माता शपते पुत्रं न दोषं लभते मही ।
na mātā śapate putraṃ na doṣaṃ labhate mahī ।

न हिंसां कुरुते साधुः न देवः सृष्टि-नाशकः ॥
na hiṃsāṃ kurute sādhuḥ na devaḥ sṛṣṭi-nāśakaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
na maataa shapate putraM na doShaM labhate mahI ।
na hiMsaaM kurute saadhuH na devaH sRuShTinaashakaH ॥
-subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

na maataa shapate putraM na doShaM labhate mahI ।

na hiMsaaM kurute saadhuH na devaH sRuShTi-naashakaH ॥

May 15th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यन्मातापितरौ वृत्तं तनये कुरुतः सदा ।
न सुप्रतिकारं तत्तु मात्रा पित्रा च यत्कृतम् ॥
- रामायण, अयोध्याकाण्ड

Transliteration:
yanmātāpitarau vṛttaṃ tanaye kurutaḥ sadā ।
na supratikāraṃ tattu mātrā pitrā ca yatkṛtam ॥
- rāmāyaṇa, ayodhyākāṇḍa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The deeds (that are) constantly done by mother and father for their children... there is no requital for those actions performed by the parents.

Commentary:

Parents work tirelessly for the welfare of their children. From the moment they become aware of their status as parents-to-be, they constantly think of nothing else but the well-being of their child/children and work tirelessly in their own ways to make the child as good an individual as possible. Every parent wants their children to be better than themself. In fact, they rejoice when their offspring surpasses them in their achievements (पुत्रादिच्छेत् पराजयम्, putrādicchet parājayam—parents desire to be surpassed by their children).

No amount of wealth or money can outweigh the parents' dedication to their children. There is nothing in this world that one can give to his parents to offset their efforts! The one meager effort he can make is: that he can try and emulate all the values his parents tried to imbibe in him. Parents are happiest when their children live worthy lives!

Like they say, to understand a parent's love, one must raise children himself. Then it becomes evident to him that—there is no retribution to it!

pada vigrahaH:
यत् माता-पितरौ वृत्तं तनये कुरुतः सदा ।
yat mātā-pitarau vṛttaṃ tanaye kurutaḥ sadā ।

न सुप्रतिकारं तत् तु मात्रा पित्रा च यत् कृतम् ॥
na supratikāraṃ tat tu mātrā pitrā ca yat kṛtam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yanmaataapitarau vRuttaM tanaye kurutaH sadaa ।
na supratikaaraM tattu maatraa pitraa cha yatkRutam ॥
- raamaayaNa, ayodhyaakaaNDa

yat maataa-pitarau vRuttaM tanaye kurutaH sadaa ।

na supratikaaraM tat tu maatraa pitraa cha yat kRutam ॥

May 10th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
स्वयं पञ्चमुखः पुत्रौ गजाननषडाननौ ।
दिगम्बरः कथं जीवेत् अन्नपूर्णा न चेद्गृहे ॥
Transliteration:
svayaṃ pañcamukhaḥ putrau gajānanaṣaḍānanau ।
digambaraḥ kathaṃ jīvet annapūrṇā na cedgṛhe ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

He himself has 5 faces, his children are 'elephant-faced' (Gajānana—Gaṇeśa) and '6-faced' (Ṣaḍānana—Ṣaṇmukha). How would Lord Shiva survive if Mother Annapūrṇā was not at home?!

Commentary:

This is not only a beautiful and humorous verse, but it also upholds and epitomizes the role of a mother in the family!

Lord Shiva has 5 faces himself. Among the 2 sons he has, one is elephant-faced and the other has 6 faces! Just imagine a dad feeding all those mouths! 

The poet says this is not possible for a dad, even if he is God! Such is the role of a mother. She is the 'one and only' and is hence irreplaceable!! She toils tirelessly, day in and day out, putting her likes and dislikes aside, and placing her family as her highest priority. Whether she gets any credit or not, she does her duties constantly. The only remuneration she expects is for her family to fare well! Her dedication and sincerity towards her family are unmatched. No words are enough to say about her significance and presence in making a house a home.

Mothers hold the hands of their children for a short time, but their hearts forever!

The sweetest sounds given to mortals are heard in 'mother', 'home', and 'heaven!'

Gratitude to mothers now and always!

P.S.: One tradition perceives Shiva as īśāna (pañca-vaktra, atrinetra), that is, Shiva combines in him: tatpuruṣa, vāmadeva, aghora, sadyojāta and īśāna, representing: wind, water, fire, creative function and space respectively. Thus Shiva's five heads manifest the five cosmic elements and functions.

pada vigrahaH:
स्वयं पञ्चमुखः पुत्रौ गजानन-षडाननौ ।
svayaṃ pañcamukhaḥ putrau gajānana-ṣaḍānanau ।

दिगम्बरः कथं जीवेत् अन्नपूर्णा न चेत् गृहे ॥
digambaraḥ kathaṃ jīvet annapūrṇā na cet gṛhe ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
svayaM pa~nchamukhaH putrau gajaananaShaDaananau ।
digambaraH kathaM jIvet annapUrNaa na chedgRuhe ॥

svayaM pa~nchamukhaH putrau gajaanana-ShaDaananau ।

digambaraH kathaM jIvet annapUrNaa na chet gRuhe ॥

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 ॥