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 15th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

भस्मना शुद्ध्यते कांस्यं ताम्रमम्लेन शुद्ध्यति ।

रजसा शुद्ध्यते नारी नदी वेगेन शुद्ध्यति ॥

- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:

bhasmanā śuddhyate kāṃsyaṃ tāmramamlena śuddhyati ।

rajasā śuddhyate nārī nadī vegena śuddhyati ॥

- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Brass is scrubbed with ashes; copper is cleansed with sour things; a woman is restored through the menstrual cycle; a river is purged by its speed. 

Commentary:

Cleanliness is next to godliness.  

Chaos theory reminds us that everything in the universe naturally drifts toward disorder. To maintain harmony, continuous effort is required. Yet, what preserves balance for one may not work for another.

For example, observe brass and copper. Each demands its own kind of care—ashes for brass, sour agents like lemon, or tamarind for copper. By contrast, a river cleanses itself through its relentless flow, never giving debris a chance to settle.

The most fascinating example lies in the verse’s reflection on women. The poet says a woman's body is restored through her menstrual cycle.  Modern Science echoes this and has proven that menstrual cycles keep women healthy and help them live longer.  Excess toxins are flushed out reducing heart diseases.  It is the secret to keeping them youthful and energetic too.  Their hormonal functions are in harmony due to their cycles. They are in touch with nature through their cycles.  The benefits are manifold. In essence, it is a natural reset button—an extraordinary gift from nature that rejuvenates and restores women.  They are blessed by nature to be able to renew their own vigor frequently, without any external interference!   

Menstruation is not taboo, it is a blessing from Mother Nature!  

Mother Nature truly knows how to weave wonders into the very fabric of life.

pada vigrahaH:

भस्मना शुद्ध्यते कांस्यं ताम्रम् अम्लेन शुद्ध्यति ।

bhasmanā śuddhyate kāṃsyaṃ tāmram amlena śuddhyati ।

रजसा शुद्ध्यते नारी नदी वेगेन शुद्ध्यति ॥

rajasā śuddhyate nārī nadī vegena śuddhyati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

bhasmanaa shuddhyate kaaMsyaM taamramamlena shuddhyati |

rajasaa shuddhyate naaree nadee vegena shuddhyati ||

- chaaNakya neeti

bhasmanaa shuddhyate kaaMsyaM taamram amlena shuddhyati |

rajasaa shuddhyate naaree nadee vegena shuddhyati ||

October 7th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

स्त्रियां तु रोचमानायां सर्वं तद्रोचते कुलम् ।

तस्यां त्वरोचमानायां सर्वमेव न रोचते ॥

- मनुस्मृति

Transliteration:

striyāṃ tu rocamānāyāṃ sarvaṃ tadrocate kulam ।

tasyāṃ tvarocamānāyāṃ sarvameva na rocate ॥

- manusmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

She is the glue that holds the family together!

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

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

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

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

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

pada vigrahaH:

स्त्रियां तु रोचमानायां सर्वं तत् रोचते कुलम् ।

striyāṃ tu rocamānāyāṃ sarvaṃ tat rocate kulam ।

तस्यां तु अरोचमानायां सर्वम् एव न रोचते ॥

tasyāṃ tu arocamānāyāṃ sarvam eva na rocate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

striyaaM tu rochamaanaayaaM sarvaM tadrochate kulam |

tasyaaM tvarochamaanaayaaM sarvameva na rochate ||

- manusmRuti

striyaaM tu rochamaanaayaaM sarvaM tat rochate kulam |

tasyaaM tu arochamaanaayaaM sarvam eva na rochate ||

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 ||

October 4th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

अरक्षिता गृहे रुद्धाः पुरुषैराप्तकारिभिः ।

आत्मानमात्मना यास्तु रक्षेयुस्ताः सुरक्षिताः ॥

- मनुस्मृति

Transliteration:

arakṣitā gṛhe ruddhāḥ puruśairāptakāribhiḥ ।

ātmānamātmanā yāstu rakṣeyustāḥ surakṣitāḥ ॥

- manusmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Unguarded are women who are confined at home under dependable caretakers. Secure are those who can defend themselves all on their own.  

Commentary:

Break the barriers and shatter the ceilings. 

It is a deeply flawed notion that the way to protect a woman is to keep her confined at home, surrounded by barriers, or guarded by trusted guardians. In reality, such restrictions do not ensure safety. Instead, they leave the woman vulnerable in the truest sense—helpless, dependent, and shackled.

Why is this so?! No one can foresee every challenge life may throw her way. She should not be gullible and be misled by evil elements. In a moment of crisis, she cannot suddenly develop the competence or courage needed to confront adversity. Those who genuinely care for a woman's well-being must encourage her to hone her skills and sharpen her instincts.  Every individual, regardless of gender, must cultivate self-reliance and learn to stand on their own, without relying on others for protection.

The idea of restraining daughters, wives, or sisters inside the home under the guise of "keeping them safe" is not just misguided—it is absurd!

As the poet insightfully proclaims, true empowerment comes from equipping a woman with the skills and confidence to protect and defend herself. A woman who possesses the ability to face life’s challenges head-on, without hesitation, is truly the free one. This strength can only be achieved through education, exposure to the world (with prudence), and the freedom to express her thoughts and desires.

This is what real empowerment looks like—women standing strong, prepared for whatever life may bring, and knowing that they are capable of overcoming any hurdles. Empowerment is not found in restraint but in liberation. It is about fostering confidence, independence, and resilience—qualities that can only flourish when women are trusted to explore the world and grow.  

Life is all about finding ourselves, embracing our strengths and weaknesses, and being true to who we are, without any inhibitions.  

This truly is the essence of women’s empowerment!

pada vigrahaH:

अरक्षिताः गृहे रुद्धाः पुरुषैः आप्त-कारिभिः ।

arakṣitāḥ gṛhe ruddhāḥ puruṣaiḥ āpta-kāribhiḥ ।

आत्मानम्-आत्मना याः तु रक्षेयुः ताः सुरक्षिताः ॥

ātmānam-ātmanā yāḥ tu rakṣeyuḥ tāḥ surakṣitāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

arakShitaa gRuhe ruddhaaH puruShairaaptakaaribhiH | 

aatmaanamaatmanaa yaastu rakSheyustaaH surakShitaaH || 

- manusmRuti

arakShitaaH gRuhe ruddhaaH puruShaiH aapta-kaaribhiH | 

aatmaanam-aatmanaa yaaH tu rakSheyuH taaH surakShitaaH || 

May 13th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
मातृवत्परदारेषु परद्रव्येषु लोष्टवत् ।
आत्मवत्सर्वभूतेषु यः पश्यति स पण्डितः ॥

- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
mātṛvatparadāreṣu paradravyeṣu loṣṭavat ।
ātmavatsarvabhūteṣu yaḥ paśyati sa paṇḍitaḥ ॥

- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Other's wives as one's own mother; other's wealth as a lump of clay; other beings like one's own self—he who sees this way is a learned person.

Commentary:

The highest reverence one can offer is to their mother. A cultured individual extends this respect to all women, seeing them as equal to his own mother. Passion and desire should be reserved solely for one's spouse. All other women are to be regarded with the same reverence as the divine mother. Ogling or harboring lustful thoughts toward others is not the mark of a cultured or learned individual.

Wealth, in the hands of a wise person, becomes a servant, but for a fool, it becomes a master. One must know how to use wealth wisely while avoiding greed or the unethical acquisition of others' possessions. A truly wise person sees the wealth of others as insignificant as a lump of clay, refusing to covet it.

"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" is not just a saying—it is a guiding principle for life. No one wishes to be treated poorly, and if one constantly remembers this, one will refrain from mistreating others. When one realizes the deeper truth that all beings are interconnected—that "everyone is him, and he is everyone"—they will abstain from harming others in any way.

A wise person embodies these three essential virtues: reverence for women, discernment, and empathy. Make the world a kinder and more harmonious place for all.

pada vigrahaH:
मातृवत् पर-दारेषु पर-द्रव्येषु लोष्टवत् ।
mātṛvat para-dāreṣu para-dravyeṣu loṣṭavat ।

आत्मवत् सर्व-भूतेषु यः पश्यति सः पण्डितः ॥
ātmavat sarva-bhūteṣu yaḥ paśyati saḥ paṇḍitaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
maatRuvatparadaareShu paradravyeShu loShTavat ।
aatmavatsarvabhUteShu yaH pashyati sa paNDitaH ॥
- chaaNakya neeti

maatRuvat para-daareShu para-dravyeShu loShTavat ।
aatmavat sarva-bhUteShu yaH pashyati saH paNDitaH ॥

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 ॥

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 ॥

April 20th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पादाभ्यां न स्पृशेदग्निं गुरुं ब्राह्मणमेव च ।
नैव गां न कुमारीं च न वृद्धं न शिशुं तथा ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
pādābhyāṃ na spṛśedagniṃ guruṃ brāhmaṇameva ca ।
naiva gāṃ na kumārīṃ ca na vṛddhaṃ na śiśuṃ tathā ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Do not ever touch with (your) feet—the fire, a teacher (guru), a brahmin (learned person), a cow, an unmarried girl, the elderly, or also a child.

Commentary:

Reverence for others is part and parcel of our culture and is depicted and practiced in many symbolic forms. Showing the feet or touching others with one's feet has never been accepted as a symbol of respect or good manners. The purpose of feet is to make one mobile, not to disrespect others. Especially in the context of a few elites, it is even frowned upon!

Who are those and why?  

• Fire (Agni)—It is the purest, noblest, and grandest emblem of the Supreme power. Agni is one of the 5 elements. Then, why only Agni has been mentioned here?!  There are other 4 elements too! The reason is, that fire always rises upwards unlike any other element. (All other elements flow downwards or have no specific direction). That is why havis (oblations to Gods) are offered through fire so they can be carried upwards. Also, one can pollute the air, water, sound, and space (which too, are forms of God), but there is no such thing as fire pollution!  It can never be contaminated.  Instead, it is a purifier of everything, which is why it is called pāvaka (that which purifies). Hence, reverence to the manifestation of the Supreme in its purest form as Fire is upheld.
• Guru—he/she is not just a teacher in school. A mother and father are a child's primary gurus. Anyone else whom he meets along the way and learns a lesson or two from should also be revered as a guru. Reverence to all these teachers is commanded.
• Brahmin - he is a symbol of learning. He is on a quest in the path of Brahman.  Whether he is one's guru or not, reverence is expressed for the knowledge in him.   
• Cow—it is considered the mother of all worlds (गावो लोकस्य मातरः -gāvo lokasya mātaraḥ). It is the most pious animal and is hence a symbol of piety. Reverence to the cow is therefore validated.
• Women—They are worshipped and honored, always. They bear children and nurture the world. Even Gods are displeased when they are disrespected. An unmarried young girl is even more revered because she is a symbol of piety and purity. Negligence towards her is unacceptable! 
• The elderly—They are the backbone of society. Without their guidance and experience, youngsters would be lost. They would have to start all over, with every generation having to rediscover fire, reinvent the wheel, and try to progress onward. The age and experience of the elderly are always revered.
• Children—They are as innocent as can be! A child under 5 years of age is considered closest to the Supreme. They know no malice and have no hatred. Their egos are undeveloped. That divinity in them is to be revered.

Once reverence is accepted towards these elite beings, how can they be disrespected by touching with feet?! Feet are the lowest of one's organs, do not touch the revered with them.

Be courteous as well as respectful towards the divinity in others. Keep your feet to yourself and keep your manners! 

pada vigrahaH:
पादाभ्यां न स्पृशेत् अग्निं गुरुं ब्राह्मणम् एव च ।
pādābhyāṃ na spṛśet agniṃ guruṃ brāhmaṇam eva ca ।

न एव गां न कुमारीं च न वृद्धं न शिशुं तथा ॥
na eva gāṃ na kumārīṃ ca na vṛddhaṃ na śiśuṃ tathā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
paadaabhyaaM na spRushedagniM guruM braahmaNameva cha ।
naiva gaaM na kumaarIM cha na vRuddhaM na shishuM tathaa ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

paadaabhyaaM na spRushet agniM guruM braahmaNam eva cha ।

na eva gaaM na kumaarIM cha na vRuddhaM na shishuM tathaa ॥

February 28th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यत्र नार्यस्तु पूज्यन्ते रमन्ते तत्र देवताः ।
यत्रैतास्तु न पूज्यन्ते सर्वास्तत्राफलाः क्रियाः ॥
- मनुस्मृति


Transliteration:
yatra nāryastu pūjyante ramante tatra devatāḥ ।
yatraitāstu na pūjyante sarvāstatrāphalāḥ kriyāḥ ॥
- manusmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:
Wherever women are worshipped, Gods revel. Wherever they (the women) are disrespected, every work (undertaken in that place) becomes fruitless (no efforts yield fruit).

Commentary:

Respect for women has been imbibed into the culture from eons. Their roles as mother, daughter, wife, sister, or friend have always been highly respected, from time immemorial. Their constant sacrifices, incessant toil for those around and most importantly, their compassion, love, and patience have always been revered. 

Every being's life begins in the womb of a female. As a mother, she nurtures and nourishes the child more than her own life. As a wife, she takes care of the entire household. As a daughter or sister, she binds the whole family and keeps it together. In any role, she forgives the follies of her loved ones and showers them with her unconditional love.

When women are treated respectfully, as prescribed in our ancient texts, there will be no need for women's empowerment initiatives. They are naturally empowered and respect would acknowledge it!!

This verse states with clairvoyance, that the Gods too, revel in a place where women are respected and worshipped. A place where the Gods revel is obviously one that is joyous and virtuous! Such is the presence of a woman. How can anyone disrespect her?!  

This verse also says that where women are not valued, the efforts of the people in that place do not yield fruit! In a place where there are no blessings from the Gods, hardly anything or anyone can see the fruition of their efforts...!

Respect is one of the greatest expressions of love.  Shower women with an abundance of love (respect)! 

pada vigrahaH:

यत्र नार्यः तु पूज्यन्ते रमन्ते तत्र देवताः ।
yatra nāryaḥ tu pūjyante ramante tatra devatāḥ ।

यत्र एताः तु न पूज्यन्ते सर्वाः तत्र अफलाः क्रियाः ॥
yatra etāḥ tu na pūjyante sarvāḥ tatra aphalāḥ kriyāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yatra naaryastu pUjyante ramante tatra devataaH ।
yatraitaastu na pUjyante sarvaastatraaphalaaH kriyaaH ॥
- manusmRuti

yatra naaryaH tu pUjyante ramante tatra devataaH ।

yatra etaaH tu na pUjyante sarvaaH tatra aphalaaH kriyaaH ॥

February 20th

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


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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

anabhyaase viShaM vidyaa ajIrNe bhojanaM viSham ।

mUrkhasya cha viShaM goShThI vRuddhasya taruNI viSham ॥

January 1st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
कार्येषु दासी करणेषु मन्त्री
रुपेषु लक्ष्मी क्षमया धरित्री ।
भोज्येषु माता शयनेषु रम्भा
षट्कर्मयुक्ता कुलधर्मपत्नी ॥

Transliteration:
kāryeṣu dāsī karaṇeṣu mantrī
rupeṣu lakṣmī kṣamayā dharitrī ।
bhojyeṣu mātā śayaneṣu rambhā
ṣaṭkarmayuktā kuladharmapatnī ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A servant in tasks, a minister in execution, Goddess Lakshmi in beauty, Mother Earth in forgiveness, mother in feeding, Rambhā in bed - a union of (these) six skills makes a virtuous wife.

Commentary:

At first glance, this verse might seem chauvinistic. But when one looks deeper, it reveals the wife’s role as one held in the highest regard.

• The wife serves her household with devotion—cooking, cleaning, dusting, mopping—without hesitation. 
• She is also as able and wise as a minister, skillfully managing the household and using resources prudently, without indulging in unnecessary luxuries.
• In beauty, she embodies Goddess Lakṣmī—not due to adornments, but through her inner strength. Her integrity and chastity give her a radiance and authority that command respect.
• In forgiveness, she mirrors Mother Earth, who bears the weight of all, good and bad alike. Just as Mother Earth endures, a wife forgives, protects, and gently corrects the flaws within her family.
• In feeding the hungry, she is like a mother, willing to go hungry herself to ensure her family is fed. 
• And when she is with her husband, she brings the grace and allure of a celestial nymph (like Rambhā).

This verse truly epitomizes the remarkable qualities and versatility of a virtuous wife. A woman like this is a blessing never to be taken for granted.

pada vigrahaH: 

कार्येषु दासी करणेषु मन्त्री
kāryeṣu dāsī karaṇeṣu mantrī

रुपेषु लक्ष्मी क्षमया धरित्री ।
rupeṣu lakṣmī kṣamayā dharitrī ।

भोज्येषु माता शयनेषु रम्भा
bhojyeṣu mātā śayaneṣu rambhā

षट् कर्म-युक्ता कुलधर्मपत्नी ॥
ṣaṭ karma-yuktā kuladharma patnī ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kaaryeShu daasI karaNeShu mantrI
rupeShu lakShmI kShamayaa dharitrI ।
bhojyeShu maataa shayaneShu rambhaa
ShaTkarmayuktaa kuladharmapatnI ॥

kaaryeShu daasI karaNeShu mantrI

rupeShu lakShmI kShamayaa dharitrI ।

bhojyeShu maataa shayaneShu rambhaa

ShaT karma-yuktaa kuladharmapatnI ॥

December 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अश्वस्य भूषणं वेगं मत्तं स्याद्गजभूषणम् ।
चातुर्यं भूषणं नार्या उद्योगं नरभूषणम् ॥

Transliteration:
aśvasya bhūṣaṇaṃ vegaṃ mattaṃ syādgajabhūṣaṇam ।
cāturyaṃ bhūṣaṇaṃ nāryā udyogaṃ narabhūṣaṇam ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Speed is the adornment of a horse, jaggedness suits well for an elephant, prudence is an adornment for a woman, (and) profession is an adornment for a man.

Commentary:

A horse is known for its running skills. No matter how fancy a horse's saddle and tack are, it is not very appealing if the horse doesn't have speed. Speed is hence the adornment for a horse. For an elephant, his ruttish state suits him well. That is when he accomplishes more tasks. Similarly, having prudence is essential for a woman just like a profession is for a man. These particular adornments for men and women are given for a reason, gender bias not being one of them. Certain faculties are bestowed on each gender naturally. 

This might initially seem outdated in today's world where men and women work as equals. Although women work outside the home it is still not easy to accept an unemployed man.  It is not in his nature to begin with. Similarly, if a family has to prosper, the woman of the house has to be judicious about how the house's resources are being used.  Thus, she must be a girl with a mind, a woman with attitude, and a lady with class. A confident woman, secure in her own power, can never be threatened by the presence of another confident woman.

If one ponders more deeply, one will see that no matter what century or generation is being looked at, certain chores are best executed as nature intended.  Although one might enter into the faculty of the other, it is better to master in their own arena first, and then step into the shoes of another. In that case, wouldn't the basic embellishments still remain the same?!

pada vigrahaH:

अश्वस्य भूषणं वेगं मत्तं स्यात् गज-भूषणम् ।
aśvasya bhūṣaṇaṃ vegaṃ mattaṃ syāt gaja-bhūṣaṇam ।

चातुर्यं भूषणं नार्या उद्योगं नर-भूषणम् ॥
cāturyaṃ bhūṣaṇaṃ nāryā udyogaṃ nara-bhūṣaṇam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ashvasya bhUShaNaM vegaM mattaM syaadgajabhUShaNam ।
chaaturyaM bhUShaNaM naaryaa udyogaM narabhUShaNam ॥

ashvasya bhUShaNaM vegaM mattaM syaat gaja-bhUShaNam ।

chaaturyaM bhUShaNaM naaryaa udyogaM nara-bhUShaNam ॥