TEMPLE TIMES - Sri Meenakshi Temple Society _2017_FINAL.pdf · TEMPLE TIMES ... Ayyappa Holy 18...

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TEMPLE TIMES-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4th Quarter 2017 October, November, December--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Goddesses Lakshmi, Durga, Saraswathi

A Quarterly Publication of

Sri Meenakshi Temple Society Pearland, Texas

TEMPLE TIMES --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

4th Quarter 2017 October, November, December

Goddesses Lakshmi, Durga, Saraswathi

A Quarterly Publication of Sri Meenakshi Temple Society

Pearland, Texas

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A Message from the MTS Chairman Namaskaram! As we head towards the 4th quarter of 2017 with many important religious events coming up including the Deepavali, Maha Kumbabhishekham, Maha Satyanarayana Puja, and Ayyappa Manadala puja we have much to be thankful for. We had a great 3d quarter with many religious celebrations when all of the devotees become ecstatic at the glorious sights of the deities Dakshinamurthy, and goddesses Lakshmi, Saraswthi and Durga. In spite of the unprecedented natural disaster caused by Hurricane Harvey, and the temple provided solace to our devotees. Sri Meenakshi Temple had record number of devotees attending and enjoying the multitude of Puja celebrations during the third quarter, including main temple anniversary, sri Bagavathi Seva, Aadi Perukku, Varalakshmi Vratham, Sri Narasimha Sudarshana Homam, Gurupeyarchi, Avani Avittam, Ashtalakshmi Deepa Puja, Gokulashtami, and Navarathri. Each event vied for special mention with beautiful alankarams. We had a special prayer service for peace for everyone in the community after the floods caused by the hurricane. The event celebrating Guru peyarchi and Dakshinamurthy puja was a thrilling experience to all. Special cultural programs were organized for many of the events, in line with our culture where temples were the abodes of religion, arts and culture.

Corner Temple Renovation Project construction (CTRP) is progressing very well, and the Maha Kumbhabhisekam will be celebrated on Thursday November 23rd, 2017. Granite pillars and vigrahams of Nayanmargal, Alwargal, and Acharyars have been made in India. Ayyappa Holy 18 steps construction plans are progressing well with special expert advice. Once the CTRP project is completed, our Temple will have the unique distinction of having the 63 Nanyanmars and 12 Alwars under one roof, and the only US Temple to have the Holy 18 steps (Pathinettapadi) for Ayyappa. We are adding new Audio & Video equipment in all the four corner Temples and a comprehensive security system for the Main Temple complex.

We thank all the Priests and Staff as they continue to work hard to ensure our Temple and the grounds is well presented, a key objective of all of us in the board. Indeed we have much to give thanks as we approach the last quarter of 2017. We request your support and participation in the multiple events planned in the 4th quarter, and look forward to your feedback. On behalf of the Board and Advisory council we wish for the blessings of Sri Meenkashi, Sri Sundareswara, Sri Padmavathy, and Sri Venkateswara be showered on you and your family.

Sockalingam Narayanan Chairman, MTS

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SRI MEENAKSHI TEMPLE SOCIETY Cordially

Invites all devotees to participate in

MAHAKUMBHABHISHEKAM

Thursday, Nov 23, 2017

10:00AM to11:00AM

PRAKHARA DEVATHA NOOTHANA MANDAPA NIRMAANA

JEERNODHARANA ASHTABHANDANA MAHA KUMBHABHISHEKAM

NAYANMARGAL ALWARGAL PRATHISHTA

November 15 - 23 2017

November 15 - Anugnai

November 1620 Poorvanga Kriyaigal

November 20 First Yagasala Puja (evening)

November 21 Second (morning) and Third Yagasala Puja (evening)

November 22 Fourth (morning) and Fifth Yagasala Puja (evening)

November 23 Sixth (early morning ) Yagasala Puja

Thursday November 23, 2017

MAHAKUMBHABHISHEKAM on behalf of the MTS board

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Sacred words from the 3 AcharyasDo not be proud of wealth, people, relations and friends.

All these are snatched by time in the blink of an eye. Giving up this illusory world, know and attain the Supreme.

- Sri Adi Shankara

Do not boast about your virtues or scorn a devotee or ignore serving devotees.

Praise the auspicious qualities of the Lord daily. Have undying faith in Lord Vishnu.

- Sri Ramanujacharya

Vishnu is to be perceived in His nature through the holy scriptures and only through them.

All living beings are dependent upon Vishnu for their existence.

- Sri Madhavacharya

Glories of Hari Nama Sankeerthanam From Sri Velukkudi Krishnan Swamis Upanyasam, Seattle, 2008

Compiled by Kamala Raghavan

The means available to us to get liberated and to reach Sriman Narayanas eternal abode are different in the 4 yugas. They are summarized in the following sloka:

Dhyayan krite yajan yajnais, tretayam dwapare archayan yad apnoti tad apnoti kalau sankirtya keshavam

Whatever is achieved by meditation in satya-yuga, by the performance of yajna in tretha-yuga. or by the worship of Sriman Narayanans lotus feet in Dwapara yuga is obtained very easily in the age of kali simply by chanting the Supreme Gods name. Our ability to perform different sadhanas differ in different yugas. In kritha yuga, people lived long and they were able to do severe penances to reach Sri Vaikuntam. But after kritha yuga, it started deteriorating.

Sacred words from the 3 Acharyas

Do not be proud of wealth, people, relations and friends. All these are snatched by time in the blink of an eye.

Giving up this illusory world, know and attain the Supreme. - Sri Adi Shankara

Do not boast about your virtues or scorn a devotee or ignore serving devotees.

Praise the auspicious qualities of the Lord daily. Have undying faith in Lord Vishnu.

- Sri Ramanujacharya

Vishnu is to be perceived in His nature through the holy scriptures and only through them.

All living beings are dependent upon Vishnu for their existence. - Sri Madhavacharya

Glories of Hari Nama Sankeerthanam From Sri Velukkudi Krishnan Swamis Upanyasam, Seattle, 2008

Compiled by Kamala Raghavan

The means available to us to get liberated and to reach Sriman Narayanas eternal abode are different in the 4 yugas. They are summarized in the following sloka: Dhyayan krite yajan yajnais, tretayam dwapare archayan yad apnoti tad apnoti kalau sankirtya keshavam Whatever is achieved by meditation in satya-yuga, by the performance of yajna in tretha-yuga. or by the worship of Sriman Narayanans lotus feet in Dwapara yuga is obtained very easily in the age of kali simply by chanting the Supreme Gods name. Our ability to perform different sadhanas differ in different yugas. In kritha yuga, people lived long and they were able to do severe penances to reach Sri Vaikuntam. But after kritha yuga, it started deteriorating. Prescription for liberation in different yugas: Yuga Means Kritha Dyana marga Dyana marga involves mind power and meditation. Tretha Performance of yaga and yagna Physical offering to fire God was prescribed in tretha

yuga. Dwapara Performing archana (offering

flowers) Offering flowers with ashtothra namavali or sahasra namavali without expecting anything in return was prescribed as a means to reach eternal abode in dwapara yuga,

Kali Chanting of His holy names In kali yuga, Nama sankeerthanam (reciting the Kesavadhi dwadasa namas of Sriman Narayana) is prescribed as the means for liberation.

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In Srimad Bhagawadam, Sri Prahladha revealed the 9 devotional practices that we should follow to realize Bhagawan:

Sravanam kirtanam vishoh

Smaranam paada sevanam

Archanam vandanam dasyam

Sakhyam atma nivedanam

Iti pumsarpita visnau bhaktiscen nava-lakshana

The nine practices for devotional service are:

1. Hearing the name and glories of Sriman Narayana (Sravanam)

2. Chanting His glories (Kirtanam)

3. Remembering the Lord all the time (Smaranam)

4. Serving Lords feet (Pada sevanam)

5. Worshipping the deity form (Archanam)

6. Offering obeisance unto the Lord (Vandanam)

7. Acting as the Lords servant (Dasyam)

8. Making friends with the Lord (Sakhyam)

9. Surrendering oneself fully to the Lord (Atma Nivedanam)

Reciting Sri Vishnu Sahasranamam is the easy way of reciting His names every day. Sahasranamam means 1008 names of Sri Maha Vishnu. Reciting the Namas makes Sriman Narayana happy, even if you do not know the meanings of the Namas. Chanting His names will give you peace and calm amid all the turmoil in the world, and Sriman Narayana will surely deliver you from this samsara.

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Sri Meenakshi Temple Society17130 McLean Road, Pearland, TX 77584

INVITES YOU & YOUR FAMILY TO PARTICIPATE IN THE

DEEPAVALI KATCHI

For more information please contact

Padmini at [email protected] Sheila at [email protected]

or call the Temple Office at (281) 489-0358, Ext 100 or 110

Sri Meenakshi Temple Society 17130 McLean Road, Pearland, TX 77584

INVITES YOU AND YOUR FAMILY TO PARTICIPATE IN THE

DEEPAVALI KATCHI

Wednesday, October 18th 2017

Deepavali Katchi at 7:00 PM

UTSAVAMURTHY ALANKARAM AND NEW VASTRAM OFFERING TO THE DEITIES

BY THE TRUSTEE AND DEVOTEES

For further Details, please contact Padmini at [email protected], or Sheila at [email protected], or you may call

temple office at 281-489-0358 extn 100 or 110

mailto:[email protected]

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The three great Nayanmars presented here have a very special relationship to Madurai. To read their stories is indeed fascinating and there is much to be learnt from them. To this day, they are specially honored and celebrated at the Madurai Meenakshi Temple.

MURTHI NAYANARMurthi Nayanar was a citizen of Madurai and his intense devotion to Lord Siva is legendary. Every day he made it his duty to make the paste from sandalwood for offering to the Lord. The city was once invaded by another king who was a Jain. This king wanted to exterminate SaIvism and began to persecute those who worshipped Siva. Murthi Nayanar was also subjected to a lot of suffering, but he was very determined and had unflagging faith in the Lord that he served and continued his worship with the offering of sandalwood paste. The king went so far as to cut off supply of all sandalwood in Madurai. Murthi Nayanar went looking for a piece of sandalwood, but could not find any. He felt heartbroken and wept at the temple, for he could not make his daily offering. He then offered his own body and began to rub his elbow against the grinding stone. The hand bled profusely, which moved Lord Siva. He was very pleased with his absolute devotion and blessed him. The tyrant king died the same night, and by divine grace, the next day Murthi Nayanar was selected to be the new Pandya king. The Nayanar never had such aspirations, but accepted the divine will to be the king with the following conditions: he will refuse all royal luxury, will bathe in the sacred ashes, wear only the Rudraksham as the jewel and wear his matted locks for the crown. The ministers accepted the conditions and Murthi Nayanar ruled the kingdom justly and wisely for a long time and eventually attained Sivas abode.

MANGAYARKARASIYARMangayarkarasiyar, a Chola princess, was the wife of Koon Pandyan, the king ruling Madurai. She was a very ardent Siva devotee. The king unfortunately fell a victim to the influence of Jainism. She had a kindred spirit in the minister, Kulachiraiyar, who was also a fervent devotee of Lord Shiva. Together they thought of several ways to introduce their beloved King into the enlightened world of Saivism. They worried about the state of their country, which was occupied by Jains. They prayed to Lord Shiva for a miracle that would change their Kings mind and bring happiness to their Kingdom. One day, the Queen heard that the great Saiva saint, Thirugnaana Sambandar had visited Thirumaraikaadu in their Kingdom. The queen, along with the minister went to pay their salutations to the great prodigy saint and sought his blessings. Together with the saint, they visited the great Madurai. The Jains residing in Madurai were incensed about the visit of a Saiva Saint to their city. They lit fire to the place where the Saint and his followers were staying. Miraculously, the Saivites survived but the next day, the King was afflicted with a strange illness. He had acute stomach spasms. No medicine prescribed by his Jain counselors worked and the Kings suffering increased with each passing moment. Finally, when all the options for cure given by the Jains failed, the Queen convinced her husband to invite the Saint Thirugnaana Sambandar and to get his help. The King agreed to this and invited the prodigy saint. He immediately cured the Kings illness by the power of Lord Shiva. The King was stunned by his miraculous recovery. He evicted all Jains from his country and established Saivism as the order in his Kingdom. Pandya Kingdom soon flourished and the people were happier. The Queen played a major role in the turnaround of her husbands mind and in establishing Saivism in their Kingdom. Her steadfast belief in Lord Shiva made her a Nayanmar Saint.

CHERAMAN PERUMAL NAYANARPerumaakothaiyar was a Prince, born in the royal Chera family of Kodungoluur. He was also known as Cheraman Perumal. From an early age, he displayed a deep devotion towards Lord Shiva and spent his time praying. Royal pleasures could not lure him away from his beloved Shiva. This continued for some years. One day, the King of the nearby Kingdom,

NAYANMARS SPECIAL TO MADURAI Compiled by M.K.Sriram

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Chenkoor Poraiyan renounced his royal life for one of Sanyasam and he had no successor. Perumaakothaiyar was chosen as the most able King to lead this country, by the learned ministers. However, this did not please the loyal devotee. He went into the Lords Sanctum sanctorum to know of his wish. Lord Shiva gave him his orders to govern the country and also bestowed on him the power to know others thoughts. Hence, he got the name of Kalaritrarivaar. There are several legends associated with Cheraman Perumal, all highlighting his utter devotion to Sivas devotees.

The happiest moment of the Kings day was when he would hear the Lords anklets on the completion of his morning ritual. One day, as usual, he waited for the Lord to notify his presence, but was disappointed when he couldnt hear the anklets sound when several moments passed after his puja completion. He became agitated that he had been amiss in his ritual proceedings, and assumed that Lord Shiva was displeased with him. He immediately took out his sword and proceeded to take his own life. Lord Shiva appeared and assured him that the cause of the delay was not because of his faulty rituals, but that Shiva was so mesmerized by the singing of his devotee, Vaanrondaar of Thillai and forgot about the King. The King was relieved, and wanting to hear the heavenly music himself set off towards Thillai in search of Vaanrondaar. He reached the Chola town of Thillai and worshipped Lord Shiva. He was enamored by the darshanam and composed a beautiful verse on Lord Shiva named Ponvannathu Andhaadhi. He visited the holy Shrines of Lord Shiva situated in Seergali, Thiruvarur and Naagai Kaaronam. In visiting Thiruvarur, his purpose was to get a glimpse of the great Nayanar saint Sundaramurthi Nayanar. The great saint welcomed the King with great pleasure and personally took him to the holy Thiruvarur temple. Kalaritrarivaar, captivated by the beauty of the Lord sang the poignant verse, Thirumummani Kovai. Sundaramurthi Nayanar invited him to his home and was treated with utmost respect by his wife Paravaiyar. Sundaramurthi Nayanar and Cheraman Perumal formed a rare bond of friendship, strengthened by their mutual love for Lord Shiva. Together, they decided to visit the great temple in Madurai. On their pilgrimage, they visited many holy Shiva shrines on the way. They were received with great fanfare by the Pandya King on their arrival in Madurai. They worshipped Lord Shiva in all the holy shrines around Madurai and returned to Thiruvarur. On the request of Cheraman Perumal, Sundaramurthi Nayanar and his wife accompanied him back to the Chera Kingdom. The King and his beloved friend were received with great fanfare by the devotees of the Kingdom. Cheraman Perumal, felt very happy that such an esteemed person had visited him.. Sundaramurthi Nayanar stayed for several days and later returned to Thiruvarur. After several months, Sundaramurthi Nayanar wanted to meet his friend one more time. He visited the Chera Kingdom. The King, Kalaritrarivaar was delighted to hear of his arrival and ordered his courtiers to decorate the entire city in honor of the great devotee. The second meeting of the two great devotees of Lord Shiva was very poignant. One morning, Sundaramurthi Nayanar went to visit Lord Shivas shrine in Thiruvanichakkalam. Cheraman Perumal sent a majestic white elephant to escort him back to the palace. The great devotee, prayed fervently to Lord Shiva to liberate him from the mortal bondage and to help him reach salvation. As he was thus thinking and climbing the elephant to go back to the palace, divine providence intervened. The elephant by the divine power of the devotee flew upwards. The King was riding a horse and coming towards the temple to meet his friend, when he saw his friend rising in the sky. With the power of his devotion, he felt that he should follow the footsteps of the great devotee. Instantaneously, his horse rose up to follow the great elephant. The two devotees reached the gates of Kailasam, the divine abode of Lord Shiva. On reaching the gates, Sundaramurthi Nayanar was given immediate entrance, whereas Cheraman Perumal was asked to wait. The great devotee informed Lord Shiva of the waiting devotee, and he was welcomed inside by Lord Shiva. He requested Lord Shiva to grant him one last boon of reciting the Kings work, Thirukayilaaya Gnana Ula. Both the devotees where granted the elusive boon of being the premier attendants in the service of Lord Shiva. Thus, the fame of Cheraman Perumal, who by his single minded devotion entered the Lords heavenly abode, lives forever.

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YATHIRAJA VAIBHAVAM by Dr. K. P. Sarathy

II Srimathe Ramanujaya Namaha II

Paaduke Yathiraajasya kathayanthi yadaakyayaa I

Thasya Daasarathe: paadou sirasaa dhaarayaamyaham II

The above verse is a prayer to Ramanujas second important student, Daasarathi, popularly known as Mudali Aandaan. He is worshiped as the holy sandals of Ramanuja and we pray to him to decorate our heads with his holy feet.

Ramanuja seeking a new teacherRamanuja routinely disagreed with his teachers interpretations of scriptures. One day the teacher was discussing the passage from Thaithreeya Upanishad, Satyam, Gyaanam, Anantham Brahma (God). Brihadaaranyaka Upanishad also addresses Brahma as Vigyaanam, Anantham Brahma. The teacher explained that truth was God, wisdom was God and all pervasive matter was God. Ramanuja objected to these and described that these attributes are the gunaas (characteristics) of God and they were not God by themselves. Ramanujas explanations went against Adi Sankaras advaithic teachings and hence the teacher banished him from his school. Ramanuja approached ThirukachiNambhi to be his guru. Nambhi being from a lower caste refused and advised him to do theertha kainkaryam (bringing water to the

temple). Both of them realized that this was what Mahalakshmi wanted when She asked for water as the hunters wife while escorting him in the jungle before. Ramanuja never told anyone about this experience. Nambhi was the only one blessed with direct conversation with the Lord and hence knew about this episode. Then on Ramanuja fetched water from the well where the divine couple as hunters disappeared. Even today volunteers bring water from this well, known as saalai kinaru (wayside well) to the temple and nearby there is a temple for Ramanuja.

One day when Ramanuja was fetching the water to the temple he came

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across a pious SriVaishnavar singing the glory of the Lord. Attracted by the meaning of those Sanskrit phrases, Ramanuja inquired him about the source of that work and was told that Alavandaar, the leading head of the Vaishnava group in Srirangam was the author and he was seriously ill and sent this SriVaishnavar, PeriyaNambhi by name, to bring Ramanuja to Srirangam. Ramanuja after finishing the temple service rushed to Srirangam only to find the lifeless body of Alavandaar on Northern Kaaveri river bank. He noticed three fingers of Alavandaar folded. He learnt that this Guru had three wishes still unfulfilled. Ramanuja took the oath that he would achieve these three goals by divine Grace and rushed back to Kancheepuram. We will address these three expectations of Swamy Alavandaar later.

It is a blessing to receive prasaad (food offered to God) and it is even holier than this to consume the leftover food from a Bhagavathar (Gods servant). Ramanuja invited ThiruKachi Nambhi to have lunch in his house. Though Nambhi did not readily accept the invitation he was compelled to do so. While Ramanuja was outside his house collecting fruits for lunch, Nambhi rushed to have an early lunch before Ramanuja showed up to avoid caste conflict. Ramanujas wife offered the food in the front yard, cleaned up the place, and utensils and after a bath prepared fresh food for Ramanuja just contrary to Ramanujas wish to eat the leftover. Ramanuja was naturally upset and felt that his wife was moving away from him. Yet on another day a poor bachelor asked for food and the wife sent him away saying she had no food while Ramanuja knew she had cooked enough food. Such episodes made him disinterested in family life.Ramanuja without a guru to guide him approached again ThirukachiNambhi and requested him to speak with the Lord Varada Rajan about his future. The next day Nambhi came up with six pointers from the Lord for Ramanuja. These are popularly known as Aru vaarthai (A Tamil phrase meaning six advises)

Ahameva ParamThathvam - Darsanam Bedamevacha - Upaayaasthu Prapathisyaath - AnthimaSmruthi Varjanam - DehaaVasaane Mokshasya - Poornaachaarya Samaasrayaha

1. The lord spoke that He was the Absolute Brahman (God)

2. The individual souls (Athma) and the Absolute (Paramaathma-God) are different

(The theory of the aikyam (oneness) of individuals with Brahman is negated here)

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3. The individuals had to practice absolute surrender to Him (easy to observe) to reach Him (This is the Upaayam, the way, to reach Him. Karma yoga, Gyaana yoga, Bhakthi yoga are difficult to practice in this Kali yugam)

4. There is no need for such surrendered souls to meditate on Him in the death bed.

(the scriptures declare that we should be thinking about God while dying to reach Him. But at that time we may not have control over our senses and hence may not be able to do it. This does not apply to those who practice prapathi(surrender) when they have control over their bodies. The Sruthi vaakyam that the departing person should be meditating on God is not denied here. God takes the responsibility of fulfilling this when the surrendered jeevan is about to die )

5. Only at the end of this life we can get Moksham(liberation). The concept of Jeevan Mukthi is denied here.

6. The above five are applicable to everybody. The last one is specifically addressed to Ramanuja. PeriyaNambhi who was one of the main students of Alavandaar would be his Guru (spiritual teacher). The first five formed the founding principles of the later works of Ramanuja and hence I consider Varadaraaja Perumal of Kancheepuram as the first guru of Ramanuja though traditionally PeriyaNambhi is praised as his first teacher. Ramanuja rushed to Srirangam to meet the new guru. At the same time PeriyaNambhi was on his way to Kancheepuram to meet Ramanuja and both met at Maduranthakam (a temple town for Rama, south of Chennai, near Chinglepet). It was here PeriyaNambhi took Ramanuja as his student and gave him the traditional sacred manthraas along with Vaishnava symbols, Chanku-Chakram, imprinted on his shoulders. Even today we can see these originally used Chanku-Chakram insignia in this temple. Both returned to Kancheepuram and as per Ramanujas request his teacher and his wife stayed with Ramanuja. Ramanuja started learning the detailed interpretations of Azhwaars Tamil works, called Naalaayara Divya Prabhandam from his teacher.

Ramanuja taking up Sanyaasa AsramamRamanujas wife was from a very orthodox family and did not like the teacher and his wife staying with them. One day when the ladies were together near the water well the teachers wife happened to hear

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unpleasant harsh words from Ramanujas wife. The teacher and his wife decided to return to Srirangam without informing Ramanuja who might prevent them from leaving. Ramanuja naturally was mad when he heard about the departure of his guru, went straight to the temple after sending his wife to her parents and prayed to Lord, Varadan to give him Sanyaasramam. To everybodys astonishment the orange robes (kaashaayam) and the three bamboo staff (tridandam) were waiting for him on the steps of the temple pond (pushkarani). Ramanuja entered the sanyaasa asramam (became an ascetic) with the names Lakshmana muni and Yathiraajar (king of all sanyaasees).

Pranaamam Lakshmanamunihi prathigruhnaathu maamakam IPrasaadhayathi yathsookthihi svaadheena pathikaam sruthim II

Upaveethinam oordvapundaravantham thrijagath punya palam thridhanda hastham ISaranaagatha saarthavaahameete sikhayaa sekharinam pathim yatheenaam II

Swamy Vedantha Desikan who appeared about two centuries later prays to Lakshmana muni whose Srisookthis (sacred writings) brought back the beauty of veda maathaa (scriptures are referred to as mother) who was blemished by those who gave wrong meanings to our scriptures. Leading those who surrendered to God our Yathiraajar shines sporting a tuft(kudumi) with the sacred thread (poonal), twelve naamams (religious marks on various parts of the body) and the staff with three sticks that brings virtues to the three worlds. It is to be noted that nonvaishnava sanyaasis do not have these characteristics.

Attracted by Yathiraajas (Ramanuja) graceful appearance two students started serving him right away. One of them was his own (poorvaasrama) cousin Mudali Andaan. The other one was a very rich man, Koorathu Azhwaan who gave up all his wealth and with his wife accepted Yathiraajar as guru. In the meantime the Srirangam group sent Perumal Araiyar (who sang Azhwar paasurams with Mudra and thaalam in front of Lord Ranganatha) to Kancheepuram to fetch Yathiraajar to lead the group in Srirangam. The melodious performance of this Araiyar in front of Varadan, Kancheepuram Perumal, influenced the Lord, priests and the Bhakthaas that they all reluctantly agreed to send Yathiraajar to Srirangam.

...............to be continued

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Invites you to participate in the

Anna Abhishekam(For Lord Shiva)

AtThe Main Temple

Sankalpam, Special Anna Abhishekam, Alankaram, Deeparadhna, Upacharam and Prasadam

Devotees can bring cooked rice and other prasadams

Sponsorship $21

For more information please contact Padmini at [email protected]

or Sheila at [email protected] call the Temple Office at

(281) 489-0358, Ext 100 or 110

Sri Meenakshi Temple Society

17130 McLean Road, Pearland, TX-77584


Anna Abhishekam (For Lord Shiva)

Saturday November 4th, 2017 at 7 PM

At The Main Temple

Sankalpam, Special Anna Abhishekam, Alankaram, Deeparadhna, Upacharam and Prasadam

Devotees can bring cooked rice and other prasadams

Sponsorship $21

For more information please contact

Padmini at [email protected] or Sheila at [email protected] or call the Temple Office at (281) 489-0358 Ext. 100 or 110.


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invites you to participate in the

Sri Kaisika Dwadasi FestivalThursday, November 30th 2017

SINGING THE GLORY OF LORD VISHNUProgram

At the Main Temple 7:00 pm

Pooja Sponsorship $21

Please bring Fruits, Flowers and Prasadam for the PoojaAs traditionally celebrated, devotees will assemble to sing together glories of Sriman Narayana. All are welcome to join. The list of songs will be provided to the devotees ahead of the event in a recorded form for individual practice


or Sheila at [email protected] call the Temple Office at (281) 489-0358, Ext 100 or 110

Sri Meenakshi Temple Society17130 McLean Road, Pearland, TX-77584


Sri Kaisika Dwadasi FestivalOn Thursday, November 30th 2017

SINGING THE GLORY OF LORD VISHNU

Program

At the Main temple 7.00 PM

Pooja Sponsorship - $21

Please bring Fruits, Flowers and Prasadam for the Pooja

As traditionally celebrated, devotees will assemble to sing together glories of Sriman Narayana. All are welcome to join. The list of songs will be provided to

the devotees ahead of the event in a recorded form for individual practice

For more information please contactPadmini at [email protected], or Sheila at [email protected],

orOr you may call Temple office at 281-489-0358 extn 100 or 110


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Sanathana Dharma a practical way to live By M.K.Sriram

Om Gurubhyo Nama: There is no easy equivalent single word for Dharma in the English language. It carries so much meaning and can be interpreted per the context: virtue, code of conduct, consciousness, moral and professional ethics, discipline, values, tradition, generosity / charity, way of life, why even science and many many more. Sanathana generally means eternal, without beginning or end and universal. Our religion, now known as Hinduism (coined by westerners) is actually Sanathana Dharma. It is not named after or aligned with one great prophet and his or her teachings, as are most other religions. In fact, whether one is consciously aware or not, SD covers all animate and inanimate objects in this universe. Everyone is really born a Hindu. This continuing series of articles with our Gurus blessings, are intended to provide an understanding of our global religion in a simple language or plain speak, with practical steps that can be followed. The hope certainly is to promote an interest in the community, especially the younger generation, to get a proper grounding and perspective of our religion, so they may be successful in their lives as leaders who exemplify the qualities and virtues of Sanathana Dharma. The major steps we take towards the ultimate goal of realizing God are the following. It is important to know that we cannot skip or jump steps. The 1st step - Matha, Pitha: Love and respect for our Mother and Father is the most natural and simplest of all. But this is a very critical step, without which we cannot hope to reach God. The 2nd step -Guru: Guru or Acharya is the teacher, guide, philosopher and leader. Without Guru, we are like a rudderless boat in an ocean. Fortunately, by family tradition, there is a Guru already in place for most of us. But, many of us, as we mature, seek and find a Guru who inspires us. Have the Guru firmly in your heart, as a foundation, for, in order to take the 3rd step, this is very necessary. The 3rd step -Brahman, the Supreme One: We worship many forms of the Brahman, the one supreme being, we as well as everything are part of. These various forms appear as deities such as Maha Vishnu, Lakshmi, Shiva, Parvathy, Ganesha, Muruga, Ayyappa etc. We worship them at temples and we worship them at home or elsewhere. This is a very personal interaction between us and the deity. The prayers are chanted to remove ignorance and selfishness from us. Our ultimate goal in this life is to attain mukthi, where we completely merge with the Supreme One. This is the ultimate realization of Advaita no two, only one. The day to day practice of Sanathana Dharma includes among many other things, the following. Temple Worship: Each time we visit the temple, let it be our goal that we will become incrementally, even by a tiny percentage, a better person. Let us pray for loka kshemam (welfare of all), rather than being selfish. Let our prayer be How can I serve you rather than Can you give me this or that. Let it be show me the light, the path and give me the strength and intellect to face all difficulties. When we listen to or chant the Vedic mantras, our hearts resonate with them consciously or sub-consciously. A visit to the temple is like a recharge of our batteries. Our thoughts and actions in our daily life should be guided and influenced by the spirituality and strength we derive from our meditation at the temple.

...............to be continued

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Sri Meenakshi Temple Society 17130 McLean Road, Pearland, TX-77584


Maha Sathyanarayana Puja

On Saturday, Dec 9th, 2017

Sponsorship - $51

Flowers, fruits & prasadams welcome Annadhanam contributions welcome

For more information please contact, Padmini at [email protected] or Sheila at [email protected] or call the Temple Office at (281) 489-0358 Ext. 100 or110.


Maha Sathyanarayana Puja

For more information please contact: Padmini at [email protected]



17

SSrrii MMeeeennaakksshhii TTeemmppllee SSoocciieettyy 17130 McLean Road, Pearland, TX-77584

Invites you to celebrate

CelebratesAyyappa Mandala Puja

(November 17th to December 27, 2017)Program:

November 16, 201710:00 AM- Sapthasudhi Abishekam

Sponsorship $31--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

November 17th, 2017 to December 27th, 20179:00AM-Abhishekam & Malar Nyvediyam;

9:45AM- Usha pooja; 11:00AM - Uccha pooja6:00 PM- Deeparadhana; 7:00 PM- Sahasranama Archana;

8:30 PM-Harivarasanam.Sponsorship $51

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

December 16th 2017 8:30 AM to 8:30 PMAkandanama Japam

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

December 23 2017 9:00 AMGhee Abhishekam

Laksharchana followed by Procession.Sponsorship $31

December 26 2017 10:00 AMKalabha Abhishekam

Sponsorship $31---------------------------------------------------------------

December 27th 2017 7:00 PMPushpabhishekam followed by Harivarasanam .

Mandala Puja Completion------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For further information and update, Please call Temple Office at 281-489-0358 Extn 100 or 110.Or you may contact Padmini at [email protected], or Sheila at [email protected]..



18

SubhAshitAni (Good Words) By N. Gopala Sundaram

(edited by Kamala Raghavan)

SubhAshitAni ((Good Words)

By N. Gopalasundaram

Edited by Kamala Raghavan

We invoke Sri Kumaraguurupara swamigal of 17th century, born in Srivaikuntam, with a great song on Mother Meenakshi of Madurai:

. (6) ( - - )

( 5- , . "crawling period" ).

The Dancing Goddess

O Goddess, as you crawl the smile on your pretty face dances like the shining moon. As you crawl the dark bun on your hair dances with its ornaments. As you crawl your bent eyebrows dance like curving creepers. As you crawl the golden cutti ornament that hangs over your forehead dances.

As you crawl, your fish-like eyes contending with one another extend to your ears and the makara ornaments that hang on your ears dance together.

SubhAshitAni ((Good Words)

By N. Gopalasundaram

Edited by Kamala Raghavan

We invoke Sri Kumaraguurupara swamigal of 17th century, born in Srivaikuntam, with a great song on Mother Meenakshi of Madurai:

. (6) ( - - )

( 5- , . "crawling period" ).

The Dancing Goddess

O Goddess, as you crawl the smile on your pretty face dances like the shining moon. As you crawl the dark bun on your hair dances with its ornaments. As you crawl your bent eyebrows dance like curving creepers. As you crawl the golden cutti ornament that hangs over your forehead dances.

As you crawl, your fish-like eyes contending with one another extend to your ears and the makara ornaments that hang on your ears dance together.

19

As you crawl, the anklets on your feet dance. The bells on your anklets dance, singing, kinkini, kinkini.

As you crawl, your waist thin as a creeper dances with your dress.

As you crawl, your belly broad as a banian leaf moves and dances. Your navel that is hidden in your belly shines and dances.

O mother of all worlds, as you crawl, all the moving and unmoving creatures of all the worlds dance.

Lift up your head, crawl and grant us your grace.

You are crowned to make this world flourish. Lift up your head, crawl and grant us your grace. (Translation- Dr. Kausalya Hart)

II. Adhi ShankarAchAryA explains the whole purpose of worship:

; : -

cigyaltaasya shuddhayE karma na tu vastUpalabdhayE vastusiddhirvicArEna na kincitkarmEkOtibhiH -vivEkachUdAmaNi

The whole purpose of worship is for purifying the mind and not for attaining the spiritual knowledge. Spiritual knowledge can only be attained by deep thinking and reading and would not be attained even if anyone performs millions of karmas.

:-

III. Manusmriti defines saintly persons in this verse:

Not prahlyati sanmn npamn ch kupyati Not angry: para bryt sa vai: Smlta :-manusmlti

na prahrushyati sanmAnE nApamAnE ca kushyati na kruddhaH parusham bUyAt sa vai sAdhUttama: smrutaH -ManusmRiti

Those who do not get carried away when honor is bestowed upon them, do not become angry when

My Salutations to You, O Divakara (the maker of the Day), and again Salutations to You, O Prabhakara (the maker of Light).

Sapta-Ashva-Ratham-Aaruuddham Pracannddam Kashyapa-[A]atmajam | Shveta-Padma-Dharam Devam Tam Suuryam Prannamaamy[i]-Aham ||2||

You are mounted on a Chariot driven by seven Horses, You are excessively Energetic and the Son of sage Kashyapa, You are the Deva Who holds a White Lotus (in Your Hand); I Salute You, O Suryadeva.

Lohitam Ratham-Aaruuddham Sarva-Loka-Pitaamaham | Mahaa-Paapa-Haram Devam Tam Suuryam Prannamaamy[i]-Aham ||3||

You are Reddish in colour, and mounted on a Chariot; You are the Grandfather of all persons (being the Adideva, the first God), You are the Deva Who removes great Sins from our minds (by Your Illumination); I Salute You, O Suryadeva.

Trai-Gunnyam Ca Mahaa-Shuuram Brahma-Vissnnu-Maheshvaram | Mahaa-Paapa-Haram Devam Tam Suuryam Prannamaamy[i]-Aham ||4||

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You are the Heroic One having the Three Gunas of Brahma, Vishnu and Maheswara (i.e. Qualities of Creation, Sustenance and Dissolution),You are the Deva Who removes great Sins from our minds (by Your Illumination); I salute You, O Suryadeva.

/ ()// / // / // : / //-







21

The 12 Azhwars Source: Internet

The 12 Azhwars, authors of Naalayira Divya Prabandam - 4000 poetic Rhymes, are known as Nityasuris or Divyasuris; those who reside permanently with the Lord in His Heavenly abode. They have incarnated as Azhwars (Vasihnavite Saints) to propagate Bhakthi Marga, devotion to Lord Vishnu. The Twelve Azhwars and their birth details are briefly given in the table below:

POIGAI AZHWAR Period 7th CenturyADBirth place: KanchipuramYear/Month: Sidharthi / AippisiBirth Star: TiruvonamAmsam : Panchajanya (Conch)

TIRUPPAN AZHWAR 8th Century ADBirth Place: UraiyurYear/Month: Dhurmathi/KarthigaiBirth Star: RohiniAmsam: Srivatsam

BHOOTHATH AZHWAR Period 7th Century ADBirth Place: Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram)Year/Month: Sidharthi / AippisiBirth Star: AvittamAmsam: Kaumodakee (Mace)

KULASEKHARA AZHWAR 8th Century ADBirth place: ThirvanjikkolamYear/Month: Prabhava/MaasiBirth Star: Punar PoosamAmsam: Kaustubham (Gem Necklace)

PEI AZHWAR Period 7th Century ADBirth place: Mylapore - ChennaiYear/Month: Sidharthi /AippasiBirth Star: SadayamAmsam: Nandhagam (Sword)

PERIYAAZHWAR 9th Century ADBirth place: Sri VilliputhurYear/Month: Krodhana/AaniBirth Star: SwathiAmsam: Garuda (Chariot/Vehicle)

TIRUMAZHISAI AZHWAR 7th Century ADBirth place: ThirumazhisaiYear/ Month: Sidharthi / ThaiBirth Star: MahamAmsam: Sudarsanam (Discus)

SRI ANDAAL 9th Century AD Birth place: Sri VilliputhurYear/Month: Nala/AadiBirth Star: PooramAmsam: Bhoodevi

TIRUMANGAI AZHWAR 8th Century ADBirth place: Thiru KurayalurYear/ Month: Nala/ KarthigaiBirth Star: KrithigaiAmsam: Sarnga (Bow)

NAMMAAZHWAR 9th Century ADBirth Place: Azhwar Thirunagari (Kurugoor)Vakulaaa Baranan, Kurugaiyar KoneYear/Month: Pramaadhi/VaikasiBirth Star: VisakhamAmsam: Viswaksenar (Commander of Army)

TONDARADIPODI AZHWAR 8th Century ADBirth place: ThirumandangudiYear/Month: Prabhava/MargazhiBirth Star: KettaiAmsam: Vanamaalai (garland)

MADHURAKAVI AZHWAR 9th Century ADBirth place: ThirukollurYear/Month: Eeswara / ChittiraiBirth Star: ChittiraiAmsam: Vainatheya (Garuda)

22



VAIKUNTA EKADESIand Swarga Vasal Darshnam

Friday, December 29th, 2017

ProgramAt the Main temple

6:00amThiruppalliEzhuchi7:00 am--8.00 am Nithya Aradhanam &Thiruppavaisevakalam

9:00 am -Venkateswara Abhishekam10:30 am-Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam and Prakara Utsavam On Garuda Vahanam

11:00 am Gadhya Thrayam, Aarthi, Shaathumurai, Theertham, Prasadam12 noon- Vishnu Sahasranamam Chanting Open participation

SPONSORSHIP $51.00

For more information please contact: Padmini at [email protected]


Sri Meenakshi Temple Society

17130 McLean Road, Pearland, TX-77584


VAIKUNTA EKADESI And Swarga Vasal Darshnam

on Friday, December 29th, 2017

Program

At the Main temple

6:00amThiruppalliEzhuchi 7:00 am--8.00 am Nithya Aradhanam &Thiruppavaisevakalam

9:00 am -Venkateswara Abhishekam 10:30 am-Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam and Prakara Utsavam On Garuda Vahanam

11:00 am Gadhya Thrayam, Aarthi, Shaathumurai,Theertham, Prasadam 12 noon- Vishnu Sahasranamam Chanting Open participation

SPONSORSHIP

$51.00


or Sheila Sriram at [email protected] Or call the Temple Office at (281) 489-0358 Ext. 100 or110


23

EVENTS FOR 4th QUARTER 2017Date DAY TIME1-Oct Sun 10:30 AM Ekadasi Sri Venkateswara Abhishekam

3-Oct Tue 7:00 PM Pradosham Nandi & Siva Abhishekam & Procession

5-Oct Thu 7:00 PM Shanthaabhishekam for Sri Meenakshi

5-Oct Thu 7:00 PM Sathyanarayana Puja

7-Oct Sat 10:30 AM Purattasi sanivaram Venkateswara Abhishekam

8-Oct Sun 10:00 AM Venkateswara Kalyanam (Baja Govindam)

8-Oct Sun 11:00 AM Meenakshi Abhishekam

8-Oct Sun 7:00 PM Sankatahara Chathurthi Ganapathi Homam & Abhisheham

9-Oct Mon 7:00 PM Krithikai Sri Subramanya Abhishekam

12-Oct Thu 7:00 PM Punarvasu Sri Rama Abhishekam

12-Oct Thu 7:00 PM Ashtami Bairavar Abhishekam

14-Oct Sat 8:00 AM Purattasi Sanivaram Venkatesawara Abhishekamm, Deepavali Bazaar

14-Oct Sat 7:00 PM Deepavali Lakshmi Puja

15-Oct Sun 10:30 AM Ekadasi Sri Venkateswara Abhishekam

17-Oct Tue 7:00 PM Pradosham Nandi & Siva Abhishekam & Procession

18-Oct Wed 7:00 PM Deepavali Katchi Lakshmi Puja

20-Oct Fri 7:00 PM Skanda Shashti Begins 1st day

23-Oct Mon 7:00 PM Maha Ganapathy Abhishekam

25-Oct Wed 6:00:PM Skanda Homam

25-Oct Wed 7:00 PM Mulam Sri Anjaneyar Abhishekam

28-Oct Sat 10:30 AM Sravanam Sri Venkateswara Abhishekam

30-Oct Mon 7:00 PM Ekadasi Sri Venkateswara Abhishekam

1-Nov Wed 7:00 PM Pradosham Nandi & Siva Abhishekam & Procession

3-Nov Fri 7:00 PM Sathyanarayana Puja

4-Nov Sat 10:30 AM Anna Abhishekam

5-Nov Sun 10:30 AM Venkateswara Abhishekam

5-Nov Sun 10:30 AM Krithikai Sri Subramanya Abhishekam

7-Nov Tue 7:00 PM Sankatahara Chathurthi Ganapathi Homam & Abhisheham

9-Nov Thu 7:00 PM Punarvasu Sri Rama Abhishekam

11-Nov Sat 10:30 AM Ashtami Bairavar Abhishekam

12-Nov Sun 11:00 AM Meenakshi Abhishekam

13-Nov Mon 7:00 AM Ekadasi Sri Venkateswara Abhishekam

15-Nov Wed 7:00 PM Pradosham Nandi & Siva Abhishekam & Procession

16-Nov Thu 7:00 PM Ayyappa Saptasuddhi Abhishekam

17-Nov Fri 7:00 PM Ayyappa Mandala Puja Begins

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20-Nov Mon 7:00 PM 1st Karthigai Somavaram

21-Nov Tue 7:00 PM Mulam Sri Anjaneyar Abhishekam

22-Nov Wed 7:00 PM Maha Ganapathy Abhishekam

24-Nov Fri 7:00 PM Sukla Sashti Sri Subramanya Abhishekam

25-Nov Sat 10:30 AM Sravanam Sri Venkateswara Abhishekam

27-Nov Mon 7:00 PM 2nd Karthigai Somavaram

29-Nov Wed 7:00 PM Ekadasi Sri Venkateswara Abhishekam

30-Nov Thu 7:00 PM Kaishika Dwadasi

1-Dec Fri 7:00 PM Pradosham Nandi & Siva Abhishekam & Procession

2-Dec Sat 10.30 AM Krithikai Sri Subramanya Abhishekam

2-Dec Sat 7:00 PM Karthigai Deepam

2-Dec Sat 7:00 PM Sathyanarayana Puja

3-Dec Sun 10:30 AM Venkateswara Abhishekam

4-Dec Mon 7:00 PM 3rd Karthigai Somavaram

6-Dec Wed 7:00 PM Punarvasu Sri Rama Abhishekam

6-Dec Wed 7:00 PM Sankatahara Chathurthi Ganapathi Homam & Abhisheham

9-Dec Sat 7:00 PM Maha Sathyanarayana Puja

10-Dec Sun 11:00 AM Meenakshi Abhishekam

10-Dec Sun 11:00 AM Ashtami Bairavar Abhishekam

11-Dec Mon 7:00 PM 4th Karthigai Somavaram

13-Dec Wed 7:00 PM Ekadasi Sri Venkateswara Abhishekam

15-Dec Fri 7:00 PM Pradosham Nandi & Siva Abhishekam & Procession

16-Dec Sat 6:00 AM Dhanurmasa Puja begins

18-Dec Mon 7:00 PM Mulam Sri Anjaneyar Abhishekam

21-Dec Thu 7:00 PM Sravanam Sri Venkateswara Abhishekam

22-Dec Fri 7:00 PM Maha Ganapathy Abhishekam

23-Dec Sat 10:30 AM Ayyappa Mandala Ghee Abhishekam

24-Dec Sun 10:30 AM Sukla Sashti Sri Subramanya Abhishekam

26-Dec Tue 7:00 PM Ayyappa Kalabha Abhishekam

27-Dec Wed 7:00 PM Ayyappa Mandala Completion Pushpabhishekam

29-Dec Fri 10:30 AM Sri Vaikunta Ekadasi

30-Dec Sat 10:30 AM Krithikai Sri Subramanya Abhishekam

30-Dec Sat 7:00 PM Pradosham Nandi & Siva Abhishekam & Procession

31-Dec Sun 11:55 PM New Year Special Puja with midnight aarthi

1-Jan Mon 8:00 AM New Year Pujas

5-Oct Thu 7:00 PM Shantha Abhishekam for Sri Meenakshi7-Oct Sat 10:30 AM Purattasi Sanivaram Venkateswara Abhishekam8-Oct Sun 10:00 AM Venkateswara Kalyanam (Baja Govindam)14-Oct Sat 8:00 AM Purattasi Sanivaram Venkateswara Abhishekam, Deepavali Bazaar14-Oct Sat 7:00 PM Purattasi Sanivaram Venkateswara Abhishekam, Deepavali Lakshmi Puja15-Oct Sun 10:30 AM Ekadasi Sri Venkateswara Abhishekam18-Oct Wed 7:00 PM Deepavali Katchi Lakshmi Puja20-Oct Fri 7:00 PM Skanda Sashti25-Oct Wed 6:00 PM Skanda Homam

4-Nov Sat 10:30 AM Anna Abhishekam15-Nov to 23- Nov Wed-Thu Var. times 63 Nayanmargal and 12 Alwargal Prathista

16-Nov Thu 7:00 PM Ayyappa Saptasuddhi Abishekam17-Nov Fri 7:00 PM Ayyappa Mandala Puja begins20-Nov Mon 7:00 PM 1st Karthigai Somavaram23-Nov Thu 10:00 AM Maha Kumbabhishekam27-Nov Mon 7:00 PM 2nd Karthigai Somavaram30-Nov Thu 7:00 PM Kaishika Dwadasi

4-Dec Mon 7:00 PM 3rd Karthigai Somavaram9-Dec Sat 7:00 PM Maha Satyanarayana puja11-Dec Mon 7:00 PM 4th Karthigai Somavaram16-Dec Sat 6:00 AM Dhanurmasa Puja begins23-Dec Sat 10:30 AM Ayyappa Mandala Ghee Abhishekam26-Dec Tue 7:00 PM Ayyappa Kalabha Abhishekam27-Dec Wed 7:00 PM Ayyappa Mandala Completion Pushpa Abhishekam29-Dec Fri 10:30 AM Sri Vaikunta Ekadasi31-Dec Sun 11:55 PM New Year Special Puja, Midnight Aarthi1-Jan Mon 8:00 AM New Year Puja

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Main Events Calendar for 4th Quarter 2017 By Month October 2017

November 2017

December 2017


REGULARLY SCHEDULED WEEKLY ABHISHEKAMSri Ganesha Homam & Abhishekam ....................................................................... All days 7:00 AMSri Siva (Sundareswara) & Sri Meenakshi Abhishekam .......................................... All days 9:00 AMSri Siva (Sundareswara) Abhishekam ................................................................Mondays 7:00 PM**Sri Durga Abhishekam .......................................................................................... Tuesdays 7:00 PMSri Padmavathy Abhishekam ................................................................................... Fridays 6:30 PMSri Meenakshi Abhishekam & Lalitha Sahasranamavali .......................................... Fridays 7:00 PM

Last Friday of the month Lalitha Sahasranamavali & Shodasa UpacharamSri Navagraha Abhishekam ................................................................................Saturdays 11:00 AMSri Ayyappa Abhishekam .................................................................................Saturdays 10:00 AM*Sri Kanyaka Parameswari Abhishekam ....................................Last Sunday of the Month 10:00 AMSri Meenakshi Abhishekam ............................................Second Sunday of the Month 11:00 AM**Sri Venkateswara Abhishekam................................................ First Sunday of the Month 10:30 AM*Please Note: From Nov. 17 to Dec. 27th .Ayyappa Mandala Puja daily at 9:00: AM Ayyappa .. Abhishekam and 7:00 PM: Special alankaram and sahasranama archana**Please Note: From Dec. 16th to Jan. 14thSri Meenakshi Abhishekam and Sri Siva Abhishekam 6:00 AM followed by Thituppavai, Thiruvembavai

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Significance of Ayyappa Holy 18 StepsBy Dr. Venugopal Menon

Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, is the most famous and prominent among all the Sastha temples in the world, situated on a 3000 feet hilltop in the state of Kerala. Several thousands of devotees make their pilgrimage during the Makaravilakku in the month of January, after observing the obligatory penance for 41 days.

Every Ayyappa devotee, before he reaches the sanctum sanctorum has to lay his footsteps over and climb the sacred 18 steps, the Pathinettampadi. The significance of the ritualistic procedure is a symbolic way of shedding the personal ego, as expressed through the steps. Eighteen is traditionally propitious in Hinduism, as noted from the Vedic age, from the number of chapters in the first Veda written by Brahma, the number of puranaas, or of the parvas in the epic Mahabharata, the number of days the Kurukshetra war lasted, or the chapters in Bhagavad Gita. And the 18 Holy steps in Sabarimala represent the five sense organs or Panchenrdriyas (eye, ear, nose, tongue and skin), the eight passions, the Ashtaragas (Kama or love, Krodha or anger, Lobha or greed, Moha or lust, Mada or pride, Matsarya or competition, Asooya or jealousy, Dhumb or boastfulness.), the three natures or Gunas (Satva simplicity, Rajas enjoyment, Thamas lethargy), and the last two being Vidya or knowledge and Avidya or ignorance. It is assumed that after climbing up these eighteen steps reverently, one symbolically detaches oneself from all the worldly ties that bind one physically and mentally to the world. It is only then that a person will be in a receptive condition to be one in consonance with the concept of The Ultimate Creator. The steep steps are so important and holy that no one can climb them without fasting for 41 days and carrying the holy irumudi on ones head. Before ascending or descending the steps, pilgrims break coconut as an offering to the steps.

MTS has the oldest Ayyappa Sanctum in the USA. The Padinettu Padi (Holy 18 steps) construction is progressing with a project completion target for the 2017 Ayyappa Mandala Puja.

Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa

28

Some criteria, MTS membership Rules and Guidelines: 1. Membership of MTS shall be open to anyone who follows the Hindu religious faith and Culture and believe in the objectives of MTS and meets the MTS By-laws requirements.(Article II: Section 1)

2. Applicant of 20 years of age or older shall become a Primary member after the Membership committees review and approval by the Board of Directors. Such Primary members will be in Provisional status for one year until they have satisfactorily demonstrated their support for MTS goals and objectives as in the By-laws. At that time, the members status will be converted to Active subject to review by the Membership committee and approval by the Board. (Article II: Section 3 & 4)

o Provisional members, shall not have privileges to vote or to hold elected offices on the Board. They may attend General Body meetings as nonvoting members.

3. Both husband and wife must apply individually for their respective membership (Article II: Section 8)

4. Primary members who file their membership forms annually and pay the annual dues, if any, shall be Active in status. Such members shall constitute the General Body of MTS. (Article II: Section 9)

5. Youth members are children of Active Primary and Senior members between ages 13 and 19. Membership and renewal forms for Youth members shall be signed by their parents or guardians. (Article II: Section 11)

6. Persons employed as Staff members or gainfully employed on contract by MTS, shall not be accepted as Primary members. (Article II: Section 14)

7. An active member shall become a life member upon payment of the necessary dues during the calendar year and applying for the same within 90 days following the end of the calendar year. (Article VII: Section 8)

8. All members must renew their membership every year, by January 1, by completing and filing the annual membership renewal form and paying the annual dues. (Article V: Section 1)

9. Extended renewal time or grace period is 1st January to 31st March. (Article V: Section 1)

10. Any member who has not filed the renewal form and/or paid the annual dues past 31st March, shall automatically become Inactive in status and shall lose his/her Membership rights and privileges. (Article IV: Section 4)

o An Inactive member shall be made Active again when the renewal forms are filed and necessary dues, if any, for the current year are paid.

11. The following do not pay annual fees for MTS membership: i) Life Members, ii) Inactive members and iii) Honorary or youth members or Temple devotees.

12. Email, Telephone and address corrections of members must be made through this form and by sending it to the membership committee coordinator. Such changes made to at the MTS devotee database (www.meenakshi.org) are not automatically used to update the membership information.

13. In December of every year, the membership committee will send out a membership renewal notice and all changes to membership can also be made through the letter.

14. To vote in the elections and to sponsor candidates, a member must be in Active status as of July 1, of an election year. (Article XXI: Section 1).

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Sri Meenakshi Temple Society17130 McLean Road, Pearland, TX 77584Phone: 281-489-0358 Ext. 100 (or) 110

ANNUAL PUJA SPONSORSHIP FORM

For more information please contact the Temple Office at 281-489-0358 ext. 100, 110If you have any questions, comments or need more information please do not hesitate to contact

Padmini Nathan at [email protected] orSheila Sriram at [email protected]


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Kalyana Mandapam (KM), Youth Center (YC) and Visitors Center (VC) at MTS

Both KM and YC are spacious facilities for events like Engagements, Weddings, Receptions, etc.

Each facility can accommodate more than 400 people VC can accommodate up to 125 people for small events Have over 1200 chairs, 50 round tables, and more than 30

rectangular (6 x 2) tables Use the MTS facilities (KM, YC and the newly opened Visitor

Center) for all of your needs throughout the year Recommend to your friends and colleagues about the facilities

and support our Temple

For Reservations Contact: Mr. Venkatachalam at 832-725-1805 or [email protected]

Alternatively: Send e-mail to [email protected] or [email protected] (Karunakar Chowdavarapu) and we will get back to you within 24 hours

Kalayana Mandapam Youth Center Banquet Hall

Kalyana Mandapam (KM), Youth Center (YC) and Visitors Center (VC) at MTS

Both KM and YC are spacious facilities for events like En-gagements, Weddings, Receptions, etc.

Each facility can accommodate more than 400 people VC can accommodate up to 125 people for small events Have over 1200 chairs, 50 round tables, and more than 30

rectangular (6 x 2) tables Use the MTS facilities (KM, YC and the Visitors Center) for

all of your needs throughout the year Recommend to your friends and colleagues about the

facilities and support our TempleFor Reservations Contact:

Mr. Venkatachalam at 832-725-1805 or [email protected]: Send e-mail to [email protected] or [email protected] (Ramachandra M. Reddy) and we will get back to you within 24 hours

mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]

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Temple HoursMonday through Thursday:

8:30 AM to 12 Noon and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PMFriday:

8:30 AM to 12 Noon and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PMWeekends and National Holidays:

8:30 AM to 8:30 PM

Sri Meenakshi Temple Telephone NumbersMAIN TEMPLE .................................. 281-489-0358

(Best time to call: 9 am-12 noon and 5 pm-8 pm)Main Temple ................................................................ 100, 110Ganesh Temple Facility Center ............................................. 115Library (During Library hours) .............................................. 125Kalyana Mantapam .............................................................. 112Temple Kitchen .................................................................... 227MTS FAX ............................................................... 281-489-3540

STAFFSri Vatsa Kumar (Executive Officer) ...................... 832-689-6448Sri K. Venkatachalam (Administrator) .................. 832-725-1805Sri Manickasundaram Bhattar (Priest) .................. 281-489-8633Sri Kalyana Sundaram (Priest) .............................. 281-692-9815Sri R.K.E. Parameswaran (Priest) .......................... 281-489-0575Sri Sreedharan Raghavan (Priest) ......................... 713-518-1810Sri Pawankumar Sri Bhashyam (Priest) ................. 281-819-7842Sri Sriman Narayana Charyalu Rompicherla (Priest)281-965-9780Sri Balaji Sethuraman (Priest)............................... 832-486-7083

www.emeenakshi.orgTemple Times Published by MTS Public Relations and Publicity Committee

RAHUKALAM DAY YAMAGANDAM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM Sun 12 NOON 1:30 PM 7:30 AM 9:00 AM Mon 10:30 AM 12 NOON 3:00 PM 4:30 PM Tue 9:00 AM 10:30 AM 12 NOON 1:30 PM Wed 7:30 AM 9:00 AM 1:30 PM 3:00 PM Thu 6:00 AM 7:30 AM 10:30 AM 12 NOON Fri 3:00 PM 4:30 PM 9:00 AM 10:30 AM Sat 1:30 PM 3:00 PM

Cover Photo: courtesy Srinivasan Sundararajan

Listen to MTS RadioListen to MTS RADIO Every Sunday

TUNE INTO RADIO DIAL 1110 AM STATION

Broadcast Every Sunday at 1:00 pmTune on link from Sri Meenakshi Temple website:

www.emeenakshi.org

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TEMPLE TIMES - Sri Meenakshi Temple Society _2017_FINAL.pdf · TEMPLE TIMES ... Ayyappa Holy 18...

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