May 13th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यत्रोऽत्साहसमारम्भः यत्रालस्यविहीनता ।
नयविक्रमसंयोगः तत्र श्रीरचला ध्रुवम् ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, मित्रसम्प्राप्‍ति

Transliteration:
yatro'tsāhasamārambhaḥ yatrālasyavihīnatā ।
nayavikramasaṃyogaḥ tatra śrīracalā dhruvam ॥
- pañcatantra, mitrasamprāp‍ti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Where there is zeal in the effort, where there is an absence of indolence, there, in the conjugation of humility and courage, wealth is certain to be steady.

Commentary:

Zeal is the secret ingredient that transforms any task into a smoother, more enjoyable endeavor. When one undertakes a task with enthusiasm and passion, it inspires and energizes those around them, creating a ripple effect of eagerness and determination to reach the goal—faster and better. However, maintaining zeal in the face of obstacles and setbacks requires immense courage and resilience.

It is often said that zeal suits the wise, yet it is most frequently found in fools. Why is that? Because without proper direction, even the most energetic efforts can become futile. Zeal without wisdom is like a ship without a compass—full of potential but headed nowhere. When energy is directed with purpose and clarity, there is no room for indolence. And indolence, no matter how sophisticated the term may sound, is nothing more than laziness in disguise—an attribute that serves no one.

True zeal must be coupled with wisdom, which brings humility—a vital trait of the truly courageous. When humility and courage unite, they pave the way for boundless prosperity. Prosperity, in turn, fosters abundance, and abundance leads to wealth—not just in material terms but in character and fulfillment as well.

So, for those aspiring for success and wealth, the formula is simple yet profound: nurture zeal, channel it with wisdom, embrace humility, and walk the path with courage. With these attributes, there are no limits to what one can achieve!

pada vigrahaH:
यत्र उत्साह-समारम्भः यत्र आलस्य-विहीनता ।
yatra utsāha-samārambhaḥ yatra ālasya-vihīnatā ।

नय-विक्रम-संयोगः तत्र श्रीः अचला ध्रुवम् ॥
naya-vikrama-saṃyogaḥ tatra śrīḥ acalā dhruvam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yatro.tsaahasamaarambhaH yatraalasyavihInataa ।
nayavikramasaMyogaH tatra shrIrachalaa dhruvam ॥
- pa~nchatantra, mitrasampraapti

yatra utsaaha-samaarambhaH yatra aalasya-vihInataa ।

naya-vikrama-samyogaH tatra shrIH achalaa dhruvam ॥

May 6th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दुर्जनः परिहर्तव्यः विद्ययाऽलङ्‍कृतोऽपि सन् ।
मणिना भूषितः सर्पः किमसौ न भयङ्करः ॥
- नीतिशतक

Transliteration:
durjanaḥ parihartavyaḥ vidyayā'laṅ‍kṛto'pi san ।
maṇinā bhūṣitaḥ sarpaḥ kimasau na bhayaṅkaraḥ ॥
- nītiśataka

Meaning of the subhAShita:

An evildoer should be evaded even if ornate with knowledge!  Just because it is adorned with a jewel,  isn't a snake scary?

Commentary:

Someone said, 'If you see a snake, just kill it.  For God's sake! Do not appoint a committee on snakes!' Such is the reputation of a snake.  The enticement of a beautiful jewel on its head will not overtake the fear it generates in the hearts of people.  It is still regarded as a scary creature and people will stay away from it.  

Similarly, a person's knowledge, versatility, or expertise in different arenas, will not draw people to him if his mind is evil.  Those around him are bound to be hurt.  Many times, the evilness of his intentions may not even be evident to those around him.  Especially if he is a learned man, he would have mastered the art of deceit!  Hence, the author says, just because a snake is bedecked with a shiny jewel on its head, it doesn't make it any less scary.  

An evildoer adorned with vidyā (knowledge) is just the same.  If knowledge is a jewel, his evil thoughts are his fangs! Hence, one should avoid the evildoer just as he would a snake!

Knowledge and viciousness do not go hand in hand.  One day or the other, his malevolence will be exposed and ostracized. True knowledge should make one humble and pious.  Aim for true vidyā.   Respect, lovability, and piety will follow automatically.

pada vigrahaH:
दुर्जनः परिहर्तव्यः विद्यया अलङ्‍कृतः अपि सन् ।
durjanaḥ parihartavyaḥ vidyayā alaṅ‍kṛtaḥ api san ।

मणिना भूषितः सर्पः किम् असौ न भयङ्करः ॥
maṇinā bhūṣitaḥ sarpaḥ kim asau na bhayaṅkaraḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
durjanaH parihartavyaH vidyayaa.la~nkRuto.pi san ।
maNinaa bhUShitaH sarpaH kimasau na bhaya~nkaraH ॥
- nItishataka

durjanaH parihartavyaH vidyayaa ala~nkRutaH api san ।

maNinaa bhUShitaH sarpaH kim asau na bhaya~nkaraH ॥

April 29th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अनिच्छन्तोऽपि विनयं विद्याभ्यासेन बालकाः ।
भेषजेनेव नैरुज्यं प्रापणीयाः प्रयत्नतः ॥
- हरिहरसुभाषित

Transliteration:
anicchanto'pi vinayaṃ vidyābhyāsena bālakāḥ ।
bheṣajeneva nairujyaṃ prāpaṇīyāḥ prayatnataḥ ॥
- hariharasubhāṣita

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Even if not desired, just as a disease (is treated) through medicine, children must be taught humility (and values) through education.

Commentary:

Medicine doesn't always taste good or smell enticing.  But when in sickness, does a person have choices?  Don't his likes and dislikes get put aside in such a circumstance?!  

It is exactly the same scenario when a child's upbringing is at hand.  Just because he has his whims and fancies, a child must not be allowed to go about his demeanor, however he pleases.  It becomes the most primal duty of the parents to inculcate moral values in the child through education.  Acquiring the right knowledge at the right time while growing helps chisel a child into a wonderful adult.

The bitter taste of medicine cannot be the deciding factor for its consumption.  Similarly, the hardships and sacrifices that are part of learning cannot be the deciding factors in whether to discipline a child or not!

pada vigrahaH:
अनिच्छन्तः अपि विनयं विद्या-अभ्यासेन बालकाः ।
anicchantaḥ api vinayaṃ vidyā-abhyāsena bālakāḥ ।

भेषजेन इव नैरुज्यं प्रापणीयाः प्रयत्नतः ॥
bheṣajena iva nairujyaṃ prāpaṇīyāḥ prayatnataḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
anichChanto.pi vinayaM vidyaabhyaasena baalakaaH ।
bheShajeneva nairujyaM praapaNIyaaH prayatnataH ॥
- hariharasubhaaShita

anichChantaH api vinayaM vidyaa-abhyaasena baalakaaH ।

bheShajena iva nairujyaM praapaNIyaaH prayatnataH ॥

April 22nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यदमी दशन्ति दशनाः रसना तत्स्वादमनुभवति ।
प्रकृतिरियं विमलानां क्लिश्यन्ति यदन्यकार्येषु ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
yadamī daśanti daśanāḥ rasanā tatsvādamanubhavati ।
prakṛtiriyaṃ vimalānāṃ kliśyanti yadanyakāryeṣu ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The taste of what is chewed by the teeth is enjoyed by the tongue!  Anguish over the benefaction of others—this is the nature of the impeccable souls.

Commentary:

One of the primary roles of teeth is to chew food, a task they perform diligently. Yet, despite their effort, they never get to savor the flavors of the food they help prepare. Instead, it is the tongue—having done little to aid in the chewing—that enjoys every bit of the taste.

This reflects the selfless nature of noble and virtuous individuals. Like the teeth that enable the tongue to relish food, such souls dedicate their entire being to the welfare of others, without seeking any personal gain. They labor tirelessly, not for material rewards but for the greater good, often receiving little recognition for their efforts. These noble individuals are the unsung heroes who form the backbone of a functioning society.

If every individual were to strive for the well-being of those around them, imagine the harmony and prosperity our world would witness! Even for those who may not aspire to such selflessness, the least they can do is not hinder or obstruct the efforts of these great souls. Sometimes, refraining from being an impediment is itself a small but meaningful contribution to society.

pada vigrahaH:
यत् अमी दशन्ति दशनाः रसना तत् स्वादम् अनुभवति ।
yat amī daśanti daśanāḥ rasanā tat svādam anubhavati ।

प्रकृतिः इयं विमलानां क्लिश्यन्ति यत् अन्य-कार्येषु ॥
prakṛtiḥ iyaṃ vimalānāṃ kliśyanti yat anya-kāryeṣu ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yadamI dashanti dashanaaH rasanaa tatsvaadamanubhavati ।
prakRutiriyaM vimalaanaaM klishyanti yadanyakaaryeShu ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

yat amI dashanti dashanaaH rasanaa tat svaadam anubhavati ।

prakRutiH iyaM vimalaanaaM klishyanti yat anya-kaaryeShu ॥

April 15th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
वरं पर्वतदुर्गेषु भ्रान्तं वनचरैः सह ।
न मूर्खजनसंपर्कः सुरेन्द्रभवनेष्वपि ॥
- नीतिशतक

Transliteration:
varaṃ parvatadurgeṣu bhrāntaṃ vanacaraiḥ saha ।
na mūrkhajanasaṃparkaḥ surendrabhavaneṣvapi ॥
- nītiśataka

Meaning of the subhAShita:

It is rather a blessing to wander in the mountains and caves with wild animals than keep the company of the foolish even if it is in the palatial quarters of Indra (the king of the demigods)!

Commentary:

It’s not so much about the ambiance as it is about the company you keep. Good company should share a common goal and foster a productive direction, creating an enjoyable and meaningful experience for everyone involved. If that’s not the case, it’s better to have no company at all.

The poet boldly states that wandering through the mountains and caves of a forest among wild animals is far more blissful than enduring the company of fools—even if the setting is Heaven itself!

The company of fools often brings adverse consequences to those around them. It yields no fruitful outcomes, rendering time and effort futile or even detrimental to one’s progress. Time and again, it has been proven: “Bad company corrupts good character.” Isn’t it wiser to preserve your sanity than to rebuild it?

As the saying humorously goes, “Go to Heaven for the climate and Hell for the company.” In reality, if the company is bad, even the climate doesn’t matter—walk away!

pada vigrahaH:
वरं पर्वत-दुर्गेषु भ्रान्तं वन-चरैः सह ।
varaṃ parvata-durgeṣu bhrāntaṃ vana-caraiḥ saha ।

न मूर्ख-जन-संपर्कः सुरेन्द्र-भवनेषु अपि ॥
na mūrkha-jana-saṃparkaḥ surendra-bhavaneṣu api ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
varaM parvatadurgeShu bhraantaM vanacharaiH saha ।
na mUrkhajanasaMparkaH surendrabhavaneShvapi ॥
- nItishataka

varaM parvata-durgeShu bhraantaM vana-charaiH saha ।

na mUrkha-jana-saMparkaH surendra-bhavaneShu api ॥

April 8th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
श्रीमानजननिन्द्यश्च शूरश्चाप्यविकत्थनः ।
समदृष्टिः प्रभुश्चैव दुर्लभाः पुरुषास्त्रयः ॥
- योगवासिष्ठ, वैराग्य

Transliteration:
śrīmānajananindyaśca śūraścāpyavikatthanaḥ ।
samadṛṣṭiḥ prabhuścaiva durlabhāḥ puruṣāstrayaḥ ॥
- yogavāsiṣṭha, vairāgya

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A wealthy man who is not blamed, a valiant man who is not pompous, a leader who is not prejudiced—these 3 people are rare to find!

Commentary:

A wealthy man, irrespective of whether he gained his wealth by just or unjust means gets rebuked.  He gets blamed for one reason or another—earning unjustly, not doing enough good with his affluence, or being overly lucky!  Rare is a man who gets applauded for his abundance and also his attitude towards his fortune.

If one is courageous, chances are, he is proud of his valiance and recounts his valor every chance he gets to anyone who will listen!  Humility in conjunction with heroism is a rare commodity.  How often do we come across a Rāma or a Hanumān?!

When one has power in his hands, arrogance goes to the head!  Misuse of power, prejudice towards kith and kin, and bias towards the lowly and helpless—these become his main attributes.  It is said, 'a politician thinks of the next election, whereas a statesman thinks of the next generation!'  It is rare to see someone with power in his hands and a level head on his shoulders.  A true leader is one who views all his subjects equally!  This is a virtue of rarity in itself.  He who possesses this is a true statesman. 

Inculcate the right traits when blessed with opportunities and privileges.

pada vigrahaH:
श्रीमान् अ-जन-निन्द्यः च शूरः च अपि अ-विकत्थनः ।
śrīmān a-jana-nindyaḥ ca śūraḥ ca api a-vikatthanaḥ ।

सम-दृष्टिः प्रभुः च एव दुर्लभाः पुरुषाः त्रयः ॥
sama-dṛṣṭiḥ prabhuḥ ca eva durlabhāḥ puruṣāḥ trayaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
shrImaanajananindyashcha shUrashchaapyavikatthanaH ।
samadRuShTiH prabhushchaiva durlabhaaH puruShaastrayaH ॥
- yogavaasiShTha, vairaagya

shrImaan a-jana-nindyaH cha shUraH cha api a-vikatthanaH ।

sama-dRuShTiH prabhuH cha eva durlabhaaH puruShaaH trayaH ॥

April 1st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सुदुर्बलं नावजानाति किञ्चित् युक्तो रिपुं सेवते बुद्धिपूर्वम् ।
न विग्रहं रोचयते बलस्थैः काले च यो विक्रमते स धीरः ॥
- विदुरनीति

Transliteration:
sudurbalaṃ nāvajānāti kiñcit yukto ripuṃ sevate buddhipūrvam ।
na vigrahaṃ rocayate balasthaiḥ kāle ca yo vikramate sa dhīraḥ ॥
- viduranīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

He who does not show even a little contempt towards the weak; handles enemies with an objective; steers clear from having a conflict with the stronger and demonstrates valor—is brave.

Commentary:

Bravery is not defined by physical strength or aggression. True bravery manifests in many forms.

The brave show compassion toward the weak, never looking down on those with less endurance or ability. Their strength uplifts rather than intimidates.

They approach their opponents with tact and wisdom. Possessing power or intellect does not mean they recklessly invite conflict.

Acknowledging the strength of a more powerful opponent is also a mark of courage. The truly brave remain grounded and avoid unnecessary provocation, choosing prudence over ego.

These qualities validate genuine bravery. To be brave is to be free—free from fear, arrogance, and recklessness. Embrace courage, for there is nothing to lose and everything to gain.

pada vigrahaH:
सुदुर्बलं न अवजानाति किञ्चित् युक्तः रिपुं सेवते बुद्धि-पूर्वम् ।
sudurbalaṃ na avajānāti kiñcit yuktaḥ ripuṃ sevate buddhi-pūrvam ।

न विग्रहं रोचयते बलस्थैः काले च यो विक्रमते स धीरः ॥
na vigrahaṃ rocayate balasthaiḥ kāle ca yo vikramate sa dhīraḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sudurbalaM naavajaanaati ki~nchit yukto ripuM sevate buddhipUrvam ।
na vigrahaM rochayate balasthaiH kaale cha yo vikramate sa dhIraH ॥
- viduranIti

sudurbalaM na avajaanaati ki~nchit yuktaH ripuM sevate buddhi-pUrvam ।

na vigrahaM rochayate balasthaiH kaale cha yo vikramate sa dhIraH ॥

March 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
एतावानेव पुरुषः कृतं यस्मिन्न नश्यति ।
यावच्च कुर्यादन्योऽस्य कुर्याद्बहुगुणं ततः ॥
- महाभारत, आदिपर्व

Transliteration:
etāvāneva puruṣaḥ kṛtaṃ yasminna naśyati ।
yāvacca kuryādanyo'sya kuryādbahuguṇaṃ tataḥ ॥
- mahābhārata, ādiparva

Meaning of the subhAShita:

He to whom a favor done does not dissipate right there, is the real (noble) man.  Upon receiving benevolence from others, return it manifold.

Commentary:

Upon receiving generosity from others, it is not ethical to forget it and move on.  Neither is it business, to return an equal or lesser favor.  It is not a BOGO (buy one get one) sale.  Remembering and returning the favor in plentiful is a magnanimous attribute!

The scriptures are strewn with multitudes of such examples.  In Mahābhārata, Pāṇḍavas had taken shelter in a Brahmin's house in Ekacakranagara. They were in disguise after the lākṣāgṛha (wax palace) incident. A rākṣasa (demon) named Bakāsura was tormenting the people of that village. So, the people had made a pact with him—they had promised to take turns and one person from each family would go to him as food regularly.  When it was the Brahmin family's turn, Kuntī, the mother of the Pāṇḍavas, offered to send her own son Bhīma to Bakāsura (whom Bhīma eventually killed), in return for their favor.  They had given shelter to her and her sons in time of need.  In return, she offered to send her son to face the demon instead of a member of their family!  That is nobility!

In Rāmāyaṇa, too, after Hanumān visits Lankā and brings news about Sītā's whereabouts, Lord Rāma embraces Hanumān and pledges his friendship to him forever!! He does not diminish the immense favor Hanumān has done with a simple 'Thank you'! That is nobility! 

In fact, interestingly enough, there is NO equivalent word for 'thank you' in Sanskrit (dhanyavādaḥ is a later adaptation)!  There is only कृतज्ञता भाव (kṛtajñatā bhāva)—कृतं जानामि इति भावः (kṛtaṃ jānāmi iti bhāvaḥ)—I acknowledge your favor, I am aware of your benevolence; nothing can be done to repay that debt; I am greatly indebted to you!

An extension of this value is, not keeping track of the favors you do to others nor expecting return favors in exchange. Do your best at any given time to aid those in need and move on.

Don't these attributes make life much simpler and more satisfactory?  Don't they keep our hearts purer and lighter?  No baggage, no regrets, no guilt...

The take-home point here is that the noble never forget what they receive nor remember what they give!  Acquire nobility in its truest sense.

pada vigrahaH:
एतावान् एव पुरुषः कृतं यस्मिन् न नश्यति ।
etāvān eva puruṣaḥ kṛtaṃ yasmin na naśyati ।

यावत् च कुर्यात् अन्यः अस्य कुर्यात् बहु-गुणं ततः ॥
yāvat ca kuryāt anyaḥ asya kuryāt bahu-guṇaṃ tataḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
etaavaaneva puruShaH kRutaM yasminna nashyati ।
yaavachcha kuryaadanyo.sya kuryaadbahuguNaM tataH ॥
- mahaabhaarata, aadiparva

etaavaan eva puruShaH kRutaM yasmin na nashyati ।

yaavat cha kuryaat anyaH asya kuryaat bahu-guNaM tataH ॥

March 18th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
कुतो वा नूतनं वस्तु वयमुत्प्रेक्षितुं क्षमाः ।
वचोविन्यासवैचित्र्यमात्रमत्र विचार्यताम् ॥
- न्यायमञ्जरी

Transliteration:
kuto vā nūtanaṃ vastu vayamutprekṣituṃ kṣamāḥ ।
vacovinyāsavaicitryamātramatra vicāryatām ॥
- nyāyamañjarī

Meaning of the subhAShita:

How can we speculate a brand-new fact?  Only, the same can be said in a variety of ways! Reflect on this. 

Commentary:

When a discovery is made, can one exaggerate it so much that he changes the facts altogether?!  Can he speculate on things that don't even exist?  Not really.  But then, the same can be presented in a variety of ways.

This rule is not true only of newfound discoveries alone.  While narrating an incident, one should not deviate too much from reality.  Otherwise, it becomes fiction!  However, the same can be presented in many different ways.  The perception of content depends on how it is narrated!

The best example of presenting information thoughtfully is Hanumān. After his return from Laṅkā, when he met Rāma, he ardently declared, 'द्रष्टा सीता' (draṣṭā Sītā—saw Sītā) instead of starting with the word 'Sītā.' His reasoning was simple yet profound—he wanted to spare Rāma any unnecessary anxiety. If Rāma had first heard the name 'Sītā,' his mind might have raced to imagine unpleasant possibilities before Hanumān could explain.

Hanumān's careful choice of words demonstrated his deep sensitivity to Rāma’s feelings. He prioritized conveying the key outcome of his quest—the 'sighting' of Sītā—without causing distress. This same message could have been mishandled with careless words, irrelevant details, an inappropriate tone, or even self-glorification about his journey. But Hanumān avoided all that.

His thoughtful timing and precise phrasing exemplify how speech should be crafted—with clarity, consideration, and care for the listener's emotions. It's a brilliant lesson in presenting facts gracefully!

The key takeaway here is, that simply stating the facts isn’t enough. The same message can be conveyed in many ways. Be mindful and considerate of others' feelings. This not only elevates the standards of amiable communication but also fosters genuine and meaningful conversations and relationships!

pada vigrahaH:
कुतः वा नूतनं वस्तु वयम् उत्प्रेक्षितुं क्षमाः ।
kutaḥ vā nūtanaṃ vastu vayam utprekṣituṃ kṣamāḥ ।

वचोविन्यास-वैचित्र्य-मात्रम् अत्र विचार्यताम् ॥
vacovinyāsa-vaicitrya-mātram atra vicāryatām ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kuto vaa nUtanaM vastu vayamutprekShituM kShamaaH ।
vachovinyaasavaichitryamaatramatra vichaaryataam ॥
- nyaayama~njarI

kutaH vaa nUtanaM vastu vayam utprekShituM kShamaaH ।

vachaovinyaasa-vaichitrya-maatram atra vichaaryataam ॥

March 11th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दूरस्थो ज्ञायते सर्वः पर्वते ज्वलनादिवत् ।
चूडामणिः शिरस्थोऽपि दृश्यते न स्वचक्षुषा ॥
- रामायणमञ्जरी, किष्किन्दा

Transliteration:
dūrastho jñāyate sarvaḥ parvate jvalanādivat ।
cūḍāmaṇiḥ śirastho'pi dṛśyate na svacakṣuṣā ॥
- rāmāyaṇamañjarī, kiṣkindā

Meaning of the subhAShita:

From afar, everyone can perceive things as the fire atop a hill.  But when on one's own head, even a crest jewel is invisible to the eye.

Commentary:

The grass always seems greener on the other side!

A verse conveys a similar idea: when something is far away, it often appears more valuable and appealing. For instance, fire on a distant mountaintop, though miles away, is easily visible and identifiable. Yet, a precious crest jewel resting on one’s own head cannot be seen without assistance—whether through a mirror, touch, or another's words.

The essence of this teaching is to recognize the value of what we already have. Ignoring one’s own talents while yearning for what is absent leads to stagnation. Similarly, people often fail to appreciate the goodness in those close to them but lavish praise on their idealized perception of distant personalities, such as celebrities or public figures they barely know.

Start where you are. While distant fields may appear greener, true opportunity lies right in front of you. Recognize it, seize it, and make the most of every chance that comes your way.

pada vigrahaH: 
दूरस्थः ज्ञायते सर्वः पर्वते ज्वलन-अदिवत् ।
dūrasthaḥ jñāyate sarvaḥ parvate jvalana-adivat ।

चूडामणिः शिरस्थः अपि दृश्यते न स्व-चक्षुषा ॥
cūḍāmaṇiḥ śirasthaḥ api dṛśyate na sva-cakṣuṣā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
dUrastho j~naayate sarvaH parvate jvalanaadivat ।
chUDaamaNiH shirastho.pi dRushyate na svachakShuShaa ॥
- raamaayaNama~njarI, kiShkindaa

dUrasthaH j~naayate sarvaH parvate jvalana-adivat ।

chUDaamaNiH shirasthaH api dRushyate na sva-chakShuShaa ॥

March 4th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गुणग्रामाभिसम्वादि नामापि हि महात्मनाम् ।
यथा सुवर्णश्रीखण्डरत्नाकरसुधाकराः ॥
- प्रसन्नराघव

Transliteration:
guṇagrāmābhisamvādi nāmāpi hi mahātmanām ।
yathā suvarṇaśrīkhaṇḍaratnākarasudhākarāḥ ॥
- prasannarāghava

Meaning of the subhAShita:

What to say about the virtues and valor of the noble—even their name shows their greatness!  Just as suvarṇa (one with an attractive color—gold), śrīkhaṇḍa (a piece of wood filled with the richness of sandal—sandalwood), ratnākara (one who holds/makes precious gems and stones—ocean), sudhākara (one who gives essence like the divine nectar—moon).

Commentary:

Nobleness is dripping from every facet of the meritorious! They are constantly looking for opportunities to do good to others.  Their nobility oozes out from all planes, so much that even their names give an indication of their virtues, meaning, their names give away their characteristics.

• Suvarṇa (gold): as the name suggests, it is cherished for its beauty and radiance.
• Śrīkhaṇḍa (sandalwood): is a piece of wood known for its rich fragrance and sacred significance.
• Ratnākara (ocean): symbolizes the ocean's ability to produce pearls, gems, and other precious treasures.
• Sudhākara (Moon): It is said that the Sun nourishes the growth of plants whereas the Moon nurtures them to attain their essence, which is poetically considered to exude coolness and nurturing essence like ambrosia.

The name is the first entity with which one identifies himself!  Especially in Sanskrit, words are derived with such precision that there is no contention to their compliance or conformity.  Each word has a declension and a root word which makes the word self-evident.  

In the past, this was likely the reason for giving meaningful and thoughtful names to children at birth. The idea was that the child would grow up embodying the qualities reflected in their name. A name was given with the hope that its essence would be realized, as it becomes an integral part of their identity for life. However, a name without substance ultimately holds little value.

The purpose of the verse is not so much for the generalization, but for upholding the fact that the nobility of the noble can be found in every aspect of their being.  They ceaselessly work for the betterment of those around them and selflessly give themselves in their entirety for the welfare of others.   That certainly is something to ponder upon, isn't it?! 

pada vigrahaH:
गुण-ग्राम-अभिसम्वादि नाम अपि हि महात्मनाम् ।
guṇa-grāma-abhisamvādi nāma api hi mahātmanām ।

यथा सुवर्ण-श्रीखण्ड-रत्नाकर-सुधाकराः ॥
yathā suvarṇa-śrīkhaṇḍa-ratnākara-sudhākarāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
guNagraamaabhisamvaadi naamaapi hi mahaatmanaam ।
yathaa suvarNashrIkhaNDaratnaakarasudhaakaraaH ॥
- prasannaraaghava

guNa-graama-abhisamvaadi naama api hi mahaatmanaam ।

yathaa suvarNa-shrIkhaNDa-ratnaakara-sudhaakaraaH ॥

February 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
स्वर्गो धनं वा धान्यं वा विद्याः पुत्रास्सुखानि च ।
गुरुवृत्त्यनुरोधेन न किञ्चिदपि दुर्लभम् ॥
- रामायण

Transliteration:
svargo dhanaṃ vā dhānyaṃ vā vidyāḥ putrāssukhāni ca ।
guruvṛttyanurodhena na kiñcidapi durlabham ॥
- rāmāyaṇa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Heaven, wealth, grain (food), knowledge, children, and pleasures—none of these are unattainable for the one who reveres his teacher.

Commentary:

Without gurus, the world would not be where it is today. Even the simplest forms of knowledge—like hunting for food or kindling fire for warmth—have been passed down through generations by teaching. Without this transmission, each generation would be forced to start from scratch, time and time again!

The term “teacher” here extends far beyond the traditional school educator. A person learns from a multitude of sources throughout their life: parents, siblings, grandparents, friends, peers, and even strangers. Sometimes, the most unexpected sources or events in nature can impart profound lessons. For this reason, all sources of learning deserve respect and reverence.

A person who values and respects the knowledge they have gained—and honors those who imparted it—will find their path to progress and prosperity unimpeded. The good wishes and blessings of these teachers become a powerful force, guiding them toward the fulfillment of their aspirations.

Remember your teachers. Honor your teachers. Revere all those who have helped you grow.

pada vigrahaH:
स्वर्गः धनं वा धान्यं वा विद्याः पुत्राः सुखानि च ।
svargaḥ dhanaṃ vā dhānyaṃ vā vidyāḥ putrāḥ sukhāni ca ।

गुरु-वृत्ति अनुरोधेन न किञ्चित् अपि दुर्लभम् ॥
guru-vṛtti anurodhena na kiñcit api durlabham ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
svargo dhanaM vaa dhaanyaM vaa vidyaaH putraassukhaani cha ।
guruvRuttyanurodhena na ki~nchidapi durlabham ॥
- raamaayaNa

svargaH dhanaM vaa dhaanyaM vaa vidyaaH putraaH sukhaani cha ।

guru-vRutti anurodhena na ki~nchit api durlabham ॥

February 18th

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

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ayaM nijaH paraH vaa iti gaNanaa laghu-chetasaam ।

udaara-charitaanaaM tu vasudhaa eva kuTumbakam ॥

February 12th

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

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

santuṣṭo bhāryayā bhartā bhartrā bhāryā tatha eva ca ।

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

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

santuShTo bhaaryayaa bhartaa bhartraa bhaaryaa tatha eva cha ।

yasmin eva kule nityaM kalyaaNaM tatra vai dhruvam ॥

February 11th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यद्वाञ्छति दिवा मर्त्यः वीक्षते वा करोति वा ।
तत्स्वप्नेऽपि तदभ्यासात् ब्रूते वाथ करोति वा ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, मित्रभेद

Transliteration:
yadvāñchati divā martyaḥ vīkṣate vā karoti vā ।
tatsvapne'pi tadabhyāsāt brūte vātha karoti vā ॥
- pañcatantra, mitrabheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

That which is desired, viewed, or done by a mortal during the day, (he) speaks or does the same, due to practice even in dreams.

Commentary:

Habituation is what it is!

The thoughts and actions we entertain regularly are seeds that inevitably take root in our subconscious minds, growing stronger with time. Psychiatrists often point out that dreams are reflections of our strongest desires or deepest fears.

When we sleep, the dominant impressions from our waking hours tend to resurface. Dreams are like unscripted movies—random snippets of memories and emotions stitched together without the supervision of an editor. Sometimes, they may appear chaotic and meaningless; at other times, they bring startling clarity. Many inventors and thinkers have woken up with solutions to problems that eluded them during their waking hours. Why? Because their minds were persistently engaged with those thoughts, allowing their subconscious to connect the dots in unexpected ways.

The mind does not discriminate between positive or negative thoughts. It simply shapes and amplifies whatever dominates our focus. Dreams, then, become the creative canvas where these latent thoughts take form.

As the saying goes, "Dreams are like stars... one may never touch them, but if followed, they will lead to unseen heights." A great man said, "Dream is not what you see in sleep but is the thing which doesn't let you sleep!" Big dreams require big thoughts, actions, and visions during our waking hours. 

Fill your days with purpose, positivity, and relentless pursuit of your goals, and you’ll soon find yourself turning dreams into reality. Dream it, live it, achieve it!

pada vigrahaH:
यत् वाञ्छति दिवा मर्त्यः वीक्षते वा करोति वा ।
yat vāñchati divā martyaḥ vīkṣate vā karoti vā ।

तत् स्वप्ने अपि तत् अभ्यासात् ब्रूते वा अथ करोति वा ॥
tat svapne api tat abhyāsāt brūte vā atha karoti vā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yadvaa~nChati divaa martyaH vIkShate vaa karoti vaa ।
tatsvapne.pi tadabhyaasaat brUte vaatha karoti vaa ॥
- pa~nchatantra, mitrabheda

yat vaa~nChati divaa martyaH vIkShate vaa karoti vaa ।

tat svapne api tat abhyaasaat brUte vaa atha karoti vaa ॥

February 4th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यदीच्छसि वशीकर्तुं जगदेकेन कर्मणा ।
परापवादसस्येभ्यः गां चरन्तीं निवारय ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
yadīcchasi vaśīkartuṃ jagadekena karmaṇā ।
parāpavādasasyebhyaḥ gāṃ carantīṃ nivāraya ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

If desirous of captivating the world with just one action, avert the cow grazing on the pastures of berating others.

Commentary:

Everyone desires to win the hearts of those around them. Imagine a magic trick—one that requires no money, talent, or effort to master—yet guarantees admiration, acceptance, and success in life. No need for prestigious degrees or trophies from elite institutions. Sounds too good to be true, doesn't it? But such a mantra does exist!

The secret? Simply avoid the tongue-tempting habit of criticizing, gossiping, or berating others. The poet beautifully compares this habit to the mindless grazing of a cow in pastures. Just as grazing is instinctive to a cow, for some, passing judgment on others feels natural. The poet urges: "Ward off that cow within you, the one that mindlessly grazes on the pastures of fault-finding!" The result? A life that blooms effortlessly, free from unnecessary conflict.

Criticizing others may feel easy, but it undermines one's ability to stay in the good books of others. Blame, after all, is the lazy person's escape from making sense of chaos. It’s said that a person can fail countless times, but they only truly become a failure when they start blaming others.

Take responsibility for your actions. The moment you do, you’ll see yourself—and the world around you—differently. Success isn't about pulling others down; it’s about rising while uplifting those around you. By aligning in harmony with others, you'll find yourself truly "on top of the world." Otherwise, you risk becoming a lonely soul, left with no one but yourself.

pada vigrahaH:
यदि इच्छसि वशीकर्तुं जगत् एकेन कर्मणा ।

yadi icchasi vaśīkartuṃ jagat ekena karmaṇā ।

पर-अपवाद-सस्येभ्यः गां चरन्तीं निवारय ॥
para-apavaada-sasyebhyaH gaaM charantIM nivaaraya ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yadIchChasi vashIkartuM jagadekena karmaNaa ।
paraapavaadasasyebhyaH gaaM charantIM nivaaraya ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

yadi ichChasi vashIkartuM jagat ekena karmaNaa ।

para-apavāda-sasyebhyaḥ gāṃ carantīṃ nivāraya ॥

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 ॥

January 21st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यदेव तीव्रसंवेगात् दृढं कर्म कृतं पुरा ।
तदेव दैवशब्देन पर्यायेणेह कथ्यते ॥

- योगवासिष्ठ 

Transliteration:
yadeva tīvrasaṃvegāt dṛḍhaṃ karma kṛtaṃ purā ।
tadeva daivaśabdena paryāyeṇeha kathyate ॥
- yogavāsiṣṭha

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Whatever actions were performed with steadfast effort before, the same ones perhaps are alternatively referred to as 'destiny' today.

Commentary:

Someone once said, "I seldom end up where I wanted to go, but almost always where I need to be!" This holds true for everyone, but recognizing and accepting it is key. Does this mean one should resign to fate, believing they have no control over their path? Not at all. While the circumstances of today are largely a result of past actions—something one cannot change—how one responds to these circumstances determines the trajectory of their future.

Acceptance is crucial, but it’s only the starting point. Once a situation is acknowledged, the focus should shift to making the most of it and planting seeds for a better tomorrow. To those who ask, "If I’m destined to be rich, why should I work hard now?" the answer is simple: "What if your destiny to become rich depends on your hard work? By doing nothing, you may lose that very opportunity!"

Actions are the seeds of destiny, and their fruits are determined by the care and effort invested today. It is not chance but choice that shapes one's future. Destiny is not a distant, uncontrollable force—it is forged in the moments when decisions are made.

So, embrace today’s challenges, make wise choices, and take purposeful actions. What you do today holds the power to create a brighter and more fulfilling tomorrow.

pada vigrahaH:
यत् एव तीव्र-संवेगात् दृढं कर्म कृतं पुरा ।
yat eva tīvra-saṃvegāt dṛḍhaṃ karma kṛtaṃ purā ।

तत् एव दैव-शब्देन पर्यायेण इह कथ्यते ॥
tat eva daiva-śabdena paryāyeṇa iha kathyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yadeva tIvrasaMvegaat dRuDhaM karma kRutaM puraa ।
tadeva daivashabdena paryaayeNeha kathyate ॥
- yogavaasiShTha

yat eva tIvra-saMvegaat dRuDhaM karma kRutaM puraa ।

tat eva daiva-shabdena paryaayeNa iha kathyate ॥

January 14th

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

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

tilavat snigdhaM manaH astu vaaNyaaM guDavat maadhuryam

tila-guDa-laDDukavat sambandhe astu su-vRuttattvaM ।

astu vichAre shubha-sa~nkramaNaM ma~ngalaaya yashase

kalyaaNI sa~nkrAntiH astu vaH sadaa aham aashaMse ॥

January 7th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
द्वाविमौ पुरुषौ राजन् स्वर्गस्योपरि तिष्ठतः ।
प्रभुश्च क्षमया युक्तः दरिद्रश्च प्रदानवान् ॥
- विदुरनीति

Transliteration:
dvāvimau puruṣau rājan svargasyopari tiṣṭhataḥ ।
prabhuśca kṣamayā yuktaḥ daridraśca pradānavān ॥
- viduranīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

O, king!  These two people surpass even heaven—a master associated with forgiveness (and) an impoverished one who is giving.

Commentary:

A master, lord, or king holds the power to act as he pleases. He could choose to punish or reprimand his subordinates for their mistakes. Yet, if he chooses to forgive, it elevates his greatness manifold. Forgiveness, after all, is not just about liberating another—it is about liberating oneself. As the saying goes, “To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.”

Resentment binds us with an emotional chain stronger than steel, tethering us to the past and preventing us from moving forward. Forgiveness is the key that dissolves the shackles, breaking the cycle and granting true freedom. A person who consciously forgives, despite having the power to do otherwise, possesses an extraordinary heart. Such a person simplifies life, finds joy in the present, and creates his own heaven on Earth.

Similarly, when someone impoverished, barely surviving, still finds it in their heart to give, it speaks volumes about their generosity and selflessness. To give even when it costs them dearly is an act of immense humility and connection to humanity. It is this selfless giving that brings both internal and eternal peace. Such a jīva (soul) transcends material joys and experiences the deepest, most profound happiness—both now and in eternity. This spirit of giving raises them above all paradises, even while they walk this Earth.

Indeed, heaven is both under our feet and above our heads. When we root ourselves in the heaven below, reaching the one above becomes effortless. Plant your feet firmly on this foundation, and the path to the divine will unfold with ease.

pada vigrahaH:
द्वौ इमौ पुरुषौ राजन् स्वर्गस्य उपरि तिष्ठतः ।

dvau imau puruṣau rājan svargasya upari tiṣṭhataḥ ।

प्रभुः च क्षमया युक्तः दरिद्रः च प्रदानवान् ॥
prabhuḥ ca kṣamayā yuktaḥ daridraḥ ca pradānavān ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
dvaavimau puruShau raajan swargasyopari tiShThataH ।
prabhushcha kShamayaa yuktaH daridrashcha pradaanavaan ॥
- viduranIti

dvau imau puruShau raajan swargasya upari tiShThataH ।

prabhuH cha kShamayaa yuktaH daridraH cha pradaanavaan ॥

December 31st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यद्यदालिखति मनोऽऽशावर्तिकाभिर्हृदयफलके ।
तत्तद्बाल इव विधिर्निभृतं हसित्वा प्रोञ्छति ॥
- सप्‍तशती

Transliteration:
yadyadālikhati mano''śāvartikābhirhṛdayaphalake ।
tattadbāla iva vidhirnibhṛtaṃ hasitvā proñchati ॥
- sap‍taśatī

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Whatever the mind inscribes (paints) on the canvas of the heart with the brushes of desire, fate stealthily (and) smilingly wipes it all out like a little child!

Commentary:

"Man proposes; God disposes!"

Not all desires bloom into fruition, no matter how meticulously one plans or how fervently one hopes. People often paint their hearts with vibrant shades of dreams and expectations, yet it is destiny that holds the ultimate brushstroke. The poet beautifully likens destiny to a mischievous child who stealthily erases those dreams with a playful smile, leaving behind no trace of the effort or longing that preceded it. Destiny, like this child, operates silently and unannounced, altering outcomes as it sees fit.

What does this mean for us? It reminds us that while we can strive with all our might, the final outcome often lies beyond our control. Effort is ours to give, but the results remain in the hands of destiny. Yet, this is not a cause for despair. Often, when a cherished aspiration goes unfulfilled, it is because a higher reason is at play—something better aligned with the greater good. Viewing setbacks through this lens can ease the sting of disappointment.

Effort remains vital, for destiny itself is shaped by the vices and virtues of one's past. Each person is the architect of their fate, building their future through present actions. As someone wisely said, "Fate is nothing but the deeds committed in a prior state of existence."

If we desire better outcomes tomorrow, we must act with integrity and diligence today. Let us set our best foot forward with unwavering faith in the process!

pada vigrahaH:
यत् यत् आलिखति मनः आशा-वर्तिकाभिः हृदय-फलके ।
yat yat ālikhati manaḥ āśā-vartikābhiḥ hṛdaya-phalake ।

तत् तत् बाल इव विधिः निभृतं हसित्वा प्रोञ्छति ॥
tat tat bāla iva vidhiḥ nibhṛtaṃ hasitvā proñchati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yadyadaalikhati mano..shaavartikaabhirhRudayaphalake ।
tattadbaala iva vidhirnibhRutaM hasitvaa pro~nChati ॥
- saptashatI

yat yat aalikhati manaH aashaa-vartikaabhiH hRudaya-phalake ।

tat tat baala iva vidhiH nibhRutaM hasitvaa pro~nChati ॥

December 24th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
किं मित्रमन्ते सुकृतं न लोकाः
किं ध्येयमीशस्य पदं न शोकाः ।
किं काम्यमव्याजसुखं न भोगाः
किं जल्पनीयं हरिनाम नान्यत् ॥
- रसगङ्गाधर

Transliteration:
kiṃ mitramante sukṛtaṃ na lokāḥ
kiṃ dhyeyamīśasya padaṃ na śokāḥ ।
kiṃ kāmyamavyājasukhaṃ na bhogāḥ
kiṃ jalpanīyaṃ harināma nānyat ॥
- rasagaṅgādhara

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Who is a friend in the end?  Good deed(s), not people.  What should be contemplated upon?!  The Lord's feet, not sorrows.  What should be desired?  Un-abound happiness, not indulgences.  What should be prattled?  Only the name of Śrī Hari, nothing else.

Commentary:

A friend in need is a friend indeed.  True friends are hard to find.  A single rose can be my garden, a single friend my world!  All these statements are nice to quote and very true as well.  But they can only go so far.  After passing on, one's best friends are his vices and virtues alone!  One needs to keep this in mind at all times.  Befriend many, but at the same time, keep your sights on the friends who accompany you through the entire journey here and hereafter!

Given the nature of the mind, it constantly keeps churning up thoughts.  It is its very nature.  It does not stay still.  Throughout the waking hours, it jumps from one thought to another, from one town to another, and even from one world to another.  There is no stopping it.  Isn't that why it is said to be faster than the wind and as restless as a monkey?! Thoughts are the very existence and thriving purposes of the mind.  In that case, why not feed it something healthy?  Think of the Lord's lotus feet.  Contemplate and meditate on His prowess and presence in the very existence of all beings!  

When there is a mind, there are thoughts in it. It is quite natural to have thoughts of something desirable!  So, why not desire something more eternal and long-lasting?! In aspiring for something trivial with a modest shelf life, isn't one wasting precious time instead of focusing on something that lasts forever?  What lasts forever is the ultimate Bliss. It is attained by treading the path of dharma, not chasing after sense pleasures.

With a mind that has thoughts oriented only toward desires, what can be said about the speech coming forth?  With so many thoughts and desires, it is only predictable that there will be a lot of chattering.  Many a time, mindless too...  Instead of gossip, why not make the words the Lord's name?!

With virtue as a friend, with the mind and desires under check, even mindless prattling automatically becomes nothing but the name of the Lord! Knowing the right goals and priorities will put us on the right path, without a doubt.

pada vigrahaH:
किं मित्रम् अन्ते सुकृतं न लोकाः
kiṃ mitram ante sukṛtaṃ na lokāḥ

किं ध्येयम् ईशस्य पदं न शोकाः  ।
kiṃ dhyeyam īśasya padaṃ na śokāḥ ।

किं काम्यम् अव्याज-सुखं न भोगाः 
kiṃ kāmyam avyāja-sukhaṃ na bhogāḥ

किं जल्पनीयं हरि-नाम न अन्यत् ॥
kiṃ jalpanīyaṃ hari-nāma na anyat ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kiM mitramante sukRutaM na lokaaH
kiM dhyeyamIshasya padaM na shokaaH ।
kiM kaamyamavyaajasukhaM na bhogaaH
kiM jalpanIyaM harinaama naanyat ॥
- rasaga~ngaadhara

kiM mitram ante sukRutaM na lokaaH

kiM dhyeyam Ishasya padaM na shokaaH ।

kiM kaamyam avyaaja-sukhaM na bhogaaH

kiM jalpanIyaM hari-naama na anyat ॥

December 17th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अहन्यहनि भूतानि गच्छन्तीह यमालयम् ।
शेषाः स्थावरमिच्छन्ति किमाश्चर्यमतः परम् ॥
- महाभारत, वनपर्व

Transliteration:
ahanyahani bhūtāni gacchantīha yamālayam ।
śeṣāḥ sthāvaramicchanti kimāścaryamataḥ param ॥
- mahābhārata, vanaparva

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Every day,  beings go to the abode of Yama (death).  The rest desire for immortality.  What can be more astonishing than this?!

Commentary:

Day in and day out, mortal beings see death in one form or another.  It could be the passing of a near and dear one or road kill on the street.  Although the reality of life (rather, death) is evident from the very moment of birth, beings want to believe that somehow they will be spared that trouble!  What can be a more astonishing phenomenon than that!  Isn't this denial the biggest wonder of the world?! 

If we really think about it, the root cause of all fears is: the fear of death.  Be it claustrophobia, hydrophobia, or whatever other phobia, the main underlying cause is the fear that one might die in those circumstances. The 'fear of the unknown' is so intense that it overbears all other knowledge. 

So much so that most people would rather choose unhappiness over uncertainty! One would rather stay in sorrow rather than face the unknown. He would embrace the 'ignorance is bliss' philosophy and pretend that the unknown shall never come to him just so he doesn't have to face that 'fear of the unknown'!  

Someone was asked, "If death meant just leaving the stage long enough to change costume and return as a new character...would you slow down or speed up?"  If one knew more about what happens after life, the fear might not have been so gripping.  

This is one field of knowledge in which science has not been able to explain or prove much.  Science believes only upon seeing proof.  However, spirituality begins where science stops! Philosophy first believes completely and then perceives its authenticity.  This method of learning is the key to vedāntic knowledge.  Scriptures given by the rishis (sages) come to aid here.  They were scientists of the highest order who experienced life beyond life.  Certainly, there is merit to what they have written!

“One day your life will flash before your eyes. Make sure it is worth watching.”

pada vigrahaH:
अहनि अहनि भूतानि गच्छन्ति इह यम-आलयम् ।
ahani ahani bhūtāni gacchanti iha yama-ālayam ।

शेषाः स्थावरम् इच्छन्ति किम् आश्चर्यम् अतः परम् ॥
śeṣāḥ sthāvaram icchanti kim āścaryam ataḥ param ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ahanyahani bhUtaani gachChantIha yamaalayam ।
sheShaaH sthaavaramichChanti kimaashcharyamataH param ॥
- mahaabhaarata, vanaparva

ahani ahani bhUtaani gachChanti iha yama-aalayam ।

sheShaaH sthaavaram ichChanti kim aashcharyam ataH param ॥

December 10th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
लोभात् क्रोधः प्रभवति लोभात् कामः प्रजायते  ।
लोभात् मोहश्च नाशश्च लोभः पापस्य कारणम् ॥
- हितोपदेश

Transliteration:
lobhāt krodhaḥ prabhavati lobhāt kāmaḥ prajāyate ।
lobhāt mohaśca nāśaśca lobhaḥ pāpasya kāraṇam ॥
- hitopadeśa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

From greed originates anger; greed gives rise to lust/desire; from greed (come) attachment and ruin.  Greed is the cause of sin.

Commentary:

Poverty wants much, but avarice... everything!  A poor person wants many things to make ends meet.  He is satiated after that.  But he who is excessively greedy always wants something, whether he needs it or not.  Greed is like a monster, standing with his mouth wide open, to devour everything that comes its way.  The more that greed is fed, the more hungry it gets!

Along with all the havoc greed causes it is the originator of anger.  When the greedy do not get what their heart desires, the first response is, getting angry.  Anger breeds resentment, another unhealthy emotion.  Anger first burns the one who is angry even before causing any harm to the person he is angry with!

Greed gives rise to lust.  Lust is never quenched and is flamed further with indulgence.

Greed conjoined with lust and anger can only lead towards attachment and destruction, all of which lead one towards committing sin.  They say hell has 3 gates—lust, anger, and greed.  All of these can originate from greed.  The best remedy to protect oneself from spiraling down this ladder of fall is to keep greed at bay.

pada vigrahaH:
लोभात् क्रोधः प्रभवति लोभात् कामः प्रजायते ।
lobhāt krodhaḥ prabhavati lobhāt kāmaḥ prajāyate ।

लोभात् मोहः च नाशः च लोभः पापस्य कारणम् ॥
lobhāt mohaḥ ca nāśaḥ ca lobhaḥ pāpasya kāraṇam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
lobhaat krodhaH prabhavati lobhaat kaamaH prajaayate ।
lobhaat mohashcha naashashcha lobhaH paapasya kaaraNam ॥
- hitopadesha

lobhaat krodhaH prabhavati lobhaat kaamaH prajaayate ।

lobhaat mohaH cha naashaH cha lobhaH paapasya kaaraNam ॥

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 ॥