Saturday, December 30, 2023

My Literary Adventure - One Book Per Day in 2023

 



It's been quite a journey – a six-month break from penning down my thoughts. With the New Year on the horizon, as everyone engages in introspection, planning, and resolutions, I find myself compelled to reflect and share the whirlwind of literary adventure that has consumed my world. Yes, it's been a personal journey of self-study, a literary odyssey that led me through the pages of 365+ books in 2023.


While I've always considered myself an avid reader, my commitment soared to new heights when in March, 23 Om Swami ji presented #earnyourmeal challenge on Wildr, a toxicity free social media. The catalyst for this transformative period was the decision to incorporate audiobooks into my routine, seamlessly blending literary exploration with exercise and walks. Remarkably, I discovered I could absorb the essence of one book per day. This realization fueled my determination to maintain this daily ritual. Even if it meant (in the last 2 months only) resorting to summary books, shorter reads, and, on occasion, embracing the enchanting world of children's literature. After all, there's a child within us all.


Allow me to share a curated list of the books that left a lasting impression on me during this odyssey. Should any pick your interest, consider immersing yourself in their narratives. It's important to note that this list exclusively comprises audiobooks and traditional text formats – no podcasts or videos included.


#

Book Name

Author

Category

Type

Link

1

Bhagavan and Bhakta

Sadhvi Vrinda Om

Self Help

Text Book

https://www.amazon.in/Bhagavan-Bhakta-Sadhvi-Vrinda-Om-ebook/dp/B0CK82HNGS

2

Rigveda

Raj Bahadur Pandey

Scripture

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Rigveda-Audiobook/B08VF8MTVC

3

Valmiki Ramayan

Valmiki

Scripture

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Valmiki-Ramayan-Hindi-Edition-Audiobook/B0B2HBBNNQ

4

Devi Mahatmyam

Sage Markandeya, Lyndal Vercoe - translator

Scripture

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Devi-Mahatmyam-Audiobook/1799969916

5

Hitopdesh (Hindi Edition)

Narayan Pandit

Scripture

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Hitopdesh-Hindi-Edition-Audiobook/B0B2ZB6J1M

6

Kurma Puran (Hindi Edition)

Dr. Vinay

Scripture

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Kurma-Puran-Hindi-Edition-Audiobook/B08XN1SRC6

7

Shreemad Devi Bhagwat Mahapuran (re-read)

Geeta Press

Scripture

Text Book

https://www.amazon.in/MPF-Shreemad-Devi-Bhagwat-Mahapuran/dp/B08QJS4LR7

8

Ling Mahapuran 

Geeta Press

Scripture

Text Book

https://www.amazon.in/Ling-Mahapuran-Vyakhyasahit-Sanskrit-Hindi-ebook/dp/B07DVM4XLQ

9

The Purusha Sukta

B.V. Kamesvara Aiyar M.A.

Scripture

Text Book

Rare book

10

Bhagavad Gita for Children

Pegasus Books

Commentary

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Bhagavad-Gita-for-Children-Audiobook/B09J96BMNC

11

Love Is Freedom

Joseph Murphy 

Commentary

Audio Book

https://www.amazon.in/Love-Is-Freedom/dp/B07BNBJ34K

12

Shiv Puran

Dr. Vinay

Commentary

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Shiv-Puran-Hindi-Edition-Audiobook/B08XN66TSD

13

Garuda Puran

Dr. Vinay

Commentary

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Garuda-Puran-Audiobook/B08VF8VCCQ

14

Wisdom of the Gods for You and Me

Devdutt Pattanaik

Commentary

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Wisdom-of-the-Gods-for-You-and-Me-Audiobook/B07YZQ64DH

15

Ramayana Versus Mahabharata

Devdutt Pattanaik

Commentary

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Ramayana-Versus-Mahabharata-Audiobook/B081P7M6K5

16

My Gita

Devdutt Pattanaik

Commentary

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/My-Gita-Audiobook/B01MYZV3FY

17

7 Secrets of the Goddess

Devdutt Pattanaik

Commentary

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/7-Secrets-of-the-Goddess-Audiobook/B01N6T9HC4

18

Abhigyan Shakuntalam

Kalidas, Lashmi Das

Commentary

Audio 

Book

19

7 Secrets of Vishnu

Devdutt Pattanaik

Commentary

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/7-Secrets-of-Vishnu-Audiobook/B01N5RMNYY

20

7 Secrets of Shiva

Devdutt Pattanaik

Commentary

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/7-Secrets-of-Shiva-Audiobook/B01N5RM66S

21

Vikramorvashi [Urvashi Won by Valour]

Kalidas

Commentary

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Vikramorvashi-Urvashi-Won-by-Valour-Audiobook/B09QQPXR3C

22

Raghuvansh 

Kalidas

Commentary

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Raghuvansh-Hindi-Edition-Audiobook/B07NDJXQC4

23

No Mud, No Lotus:

The Art of Transforming Suffering

Thich Nhat Hanh

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/No-Mud-No-Lotus-Audiobook/B0BT549J21

24

Life Word:

Discover Your One Word to Leave a Legacy

Jon Gordon, Dan Britton, Jimmy Page

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Life-Word-Audiobook/B01N4EHDSL

25

TurboStrategy

Brian Tracy

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/TurboStrategy-Audiobook/B01MRZOJ1A

26

You Are the Guru

Gabrielle Bernstein

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/You-Are-the-Guru-Audiobook/B08DRW5TXW

27

Coaching for Leadership

Marshall Goldsmith, Laurence Lyons

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Coaching-for-Leadership-Audiobook/1663708371

28

The Seed: Finding Purpose and Happiness in Life and Work

Jon Gordon

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Seed-Audiobook/B01MZ26RLV

29

Real Magic: Making Miracles in All Areas of Your Life

Dr. Wayne W. Dyer

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Real-Magic-Audiobook/B079CMF2G6

30

Uttarraamcharit

Bhavbhuti

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Uttarraamcharit-Audiobook/B0B2KQVQCX

31

The Zero Point

Dr. Joe Vitale

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Zero-Point-Audiobook/B079DFMDLS

32

Do One Thing Well

Daniel Roberts, Fortune Contributors

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Do-One-Thing-Well-Audiobook/B07JDTCS1M

33

Steps for a More Fulfilling Life

Dale Carnegie

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Steps-for-a-More-Fulfilling-Life-Audiobook/B079P5FM12

34

The Miracle of Success

Tom Hopkins

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Miracle-of-Success-Audiobook/1982603267

35

Go Slowly, Breathe and Smile

Thich Nhat Hanh, Rashani Réa

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Go-Slowly-Breathe-and-Smile-Audiobook/B0B78BD6XM

36

How to Get Ahead in the World Today

Dale Carnegie

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/How-to-Get-Ahead-in-the-World-Today-Audiobook/B079BFJ1NJ

37

Truths vs. Falsehood

Dr. David Hawkins

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Truths-vs-Falsehood-Audiobook/B07DM3ZP56

38

The Craving Mind

Judson Brewer

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Craving-Mind-Audiobook/B06VYG8PVR

39

Ichigo Ichie: वर्तमान में जीने की कला [The Art of Living in the Present]

Hector Garcia, Fransesc Miralles

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Ichigo-Ichie-Hindi-Edition-Audiobook/B0BKLQHLG5

40

How to Enjoy Your Life and Your Job

Dale Carnegie

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/How-to-Enjoy-Your-Life-and-Your-Job-Audiobook/B07DKTJ5Z6

41

Motivation

Brian Tracy

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Motivation-Audiobook/B07BFQKZTV

42

Leadership

Brian Tracy

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Leadership-Audiobook/B079CDZZN1

43

Time Management

Brian Tracy

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Time-Management-Audiobook/B079R33QXD

44

Detoxing Your Mind

Glenn Harrold

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Detoxing-Your-Mind-Audiobook/B07CQRF36P

45

Thank You Power

Deborah Norville

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Thank-You-Power-Audiobook/B07FK6SDGF

46

Meditations

Marcus Aurelius

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Meditations-Audiobook/B06XVZCTCC

47

Master Your Time, Master Your Life

Brian Tracy

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Master-Your-Time-Master-Your-Life-Audiobook/B079BC7V4M

48

Kiss That Frog!

Brian Tracy, Christina Tracy Stein

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Kiss-That-Frog-Audiobook/B01N6J4WM6

49

The Gratitude Effect

Dr. John F. Demartini

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Gratitude-Effect-Audiobook/B079TJ8F33

50

Meditation in Action

Chögyam Trungpa, Samuel Bercholz - foreword

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Meditation-in-Action-Audiobook/B01N5HSAE8

51

The Now Habit

Neil Fiore Ph.D.

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Now-Habit-Audiobook/B079VMKQMY

52

The Power of Concentration

Theron Q. Dumont

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Power-of-Concentration-Audiobook/B07B6DZFKS

53

The Leadership Sutra

Devdutt Pattanaik

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Leadership-Sutra-Audiobook/B01N5RM7J9

54

How to Do Anything Better

Sunny Sea Gold

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/How-to-Do-Anything-Better-Audiobook/B097S1BGCJ

55

Manifesting Your Goals and Dreams

Glenn Harrold

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Manifesting-Your-Goals-and-Dreams-Audiobook/B07CPFV5NB

56

Public Speaking Success Secrets

Marsha Sue Petrie

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Public-Speaking-Success-Secrets-Audiobook/B07C3KQKF4

57

Man's Search for Meaning

Viktor E. Frankl

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Mans-Search-for-Meaning-Audiobook/B01N1UNFN7

58

How a Branding Mindset Boosts Your Career

Kanika Tolver

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/How-a-Branding-Mindset-Boosts-Your-Career-Audiobook/B09FQGVWTY

59

The Four Purposes of Life

Dan Millman

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Four-Purposes-of-Life-Audiobook/B01N2WBL7G

60

Introduction to Tantra

Lama Thubten Yeshe

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Introduction-to-Tantra-Audiobook/B01N0T5JUL

61

Forge Your Future

A. P. J. Kalam

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Forge-Your-Future-Audiobook/B07JYP863B

62

The Compound Effect: Multiply Your Success One Simple Step at a Time

Darren Hardy

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Compound-Effect-Audiobook/1982648066

63

Following the Path of Jesus

Eknath Easwaran

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Following-the-Path-of-Jesus-Audiobook/B079VS5B6T

64

Living with the Himalayan Masters

Swami Rama

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Living-with-the-Himalayan-Masters-Audiobook/B079R4FXPM

65

Peace Is Every Step

The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life

Thich Nhat Hanh

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Peace-Is-Every-Step-Audiobook/B01N2W8R9U

66

The Miracle of Mindfulness

The Classic Guide to Meditation by the World's Most Revered Master

Thich Nhat Hanh

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Miracle-of-Mindfulness-Audiobook/B071LN1XLP

67

Enlightened Sex

David Deida

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Enlightened-Sex-Audiobook/B07GHW9CXC

68

Seedtime and Harvest

Neville Goddard

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Seedtime-and-Harvest-Audiobook/B07B8C5XXP

69

Ikigai (Hindi Edition)

Hector Garcia, Fransesc Miralles

Self Help

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Ikigai-Hindi-Edition-Audiobook/B0BPKR3X5Z

70

Family Wisdom

Robin Sharma

Self Help

Text Book

https://www.amazon.in/Family-Wisdom-Monk-Sold-Ferrari/dp/8179922308

71

Adiyogi: The Source of Yoga

Sadhguru

Other

Text Book

https://www.amazon.in/Adiyogi-Source-Yoga-Sadhguru/dp/9352643925

72

Jim Corbett Omnibus

Jim Corbett

Other

Text Book


73

Just So Stories

Rudyard Kipling

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Just-So-Stories-Audiobook/B079CD5TYJ

74

The Quantum Doctor

Deepak Chopra

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Quantum-Doctor-Audiobook/B07RHQ944T

75

Godaan

Munshi Premchand

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Godaan-Hindi-Edition-Audiobook/B0853ZJSCF

76

Nirmala 

Munshi Premchand

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Nirmala-Hindi-Edition-Audiobook/B085417959

77

Kankal [Eyes]

Jaishankar Prasad

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Kankal-Eyes-Audiobook/B07NDJV8H4

78

Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Power

Rajiv Malhotra

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Artificial-Intelligence-and-the-Future-of-Power-Audiobook/B0C67MHLF4

79

Anne Frank: Her Life and Legacy

Jemma J. Saunders

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Anne-Frank-Audiobook/B07CSD59GV

80

Sahir Ludhiyanvi

Sahir Ludhiyanvi

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Embargo-title-IN-Audiobook/B07NDJY31X

81

Kya Khoya Kya Paya [What Was Lost What Was Found]

Atal Bihari Vajpayee

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Kya-Khoya-Kya-Paya-What-Was-Lost-What-Was-Found-Audiobook/B07NDJVKXN

82

The Ambuja Story

Narotam Sekhsaria

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Ambuja-Story-Audiobook/B09V3KVQNK

83

Many Miles to Go

Brian Tracy

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Many-Miles-to-Go-Audiobook/B07DXD8MXV

84

A House Divided

Pearl S. Buck

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/A-House-Divided-Audiobook/B06W2KQZW5

85

Sons

Pearl S. Buck

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Sons-Audiobook/B01N4ROP36

86

Mudrarakshas [Currency Monster]

Vishakdutt

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Mudrarakshas-Currency-Monster-Audiobook/B0B2HQ38HM

87

Chanakya Aur Chandragupt

Rajender Pandya

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Chanakya-Aur-Chandragupt-Chanakya-and-Chandragupta-Audiobook/B08XMWHPLN

88

Why I Am an Atheist and Other Works

Bhagat Singh

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Why-I-Am-an-Atheist-and-Other-Works-Audiobook/B086VTHFQK

89

Radhakrishnan Centenary Volume 

G. Patha

sarathi

Other

Text Book

Rare book

90

Bhujia Barons

Pavitra Kumar

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Bhujia-Barons-Audiobook/0143497391

91

Caffeine

Michael Pollan

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Caffeine-Audiobook/B083MQMXNF

92

The Unusual Billionaires

Saurabh Mukherjea

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Unusual-Billionaires-Audiobook/0143495488

93

The Jungle Book

Rudyard Kipling

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Jungle-Book-Audiobook/B0798VJ715

94

Padmavat

Purushottam Agrawal, Devdutt Pattanaik

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Padmavat-Audiobook/B07H43XQWJ

95

The Bed of Procrustes

Nassim Nicholas Taleb

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Bed-of-Procrustes-Audiobook/B079CLRMN2

96

Meri Priya Kahaniyaan

PhanishwarNath Renu

Other

Audio Book

https://www.amazon.in/Meri-Priya-Kahaniyaan-Phanishwarnath-Favorite/dp/B07NDJ4BDQ

97

Aksharo Ke Saye [Shadows of Letters]

Amrita Pritam

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Aksharo-Ke-Saye-Shadows-of-Letters-Audiobook/B07NDJZGDR

98

Meri Priya Kahaniyaan

Pratibha Rai

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Meri-Priya-Kahaniyaan-Pratibha-Rai-My-Favorite-Stories-Pratibha-Rai-Audiobook/B07NDJHMGQ

99

Cyber Crisis

Eric Cole

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Cyber-Crisis-Audiobook/166612530X

100

The Art of War

Sun Tzu

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Art-of-War-Audiobook/B01N5HP6HL

101

Satyajit Ray Ki Kahaniyan

Satyajit Rai

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Satyajit-Ray-Ki-Kahaniyan-Stories-of-Satyajit-Ray-Audiobook/B07NDKHQR1

102

The Trees of Dehra

Ruskin Bond

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Trees-of-Dehra-Audiobook/B08N8LWSZM

103

Shivaji

Dennis Kincaid

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Shivaji-Audiobook/B01N6S0JJQ

104

A Sacred Life - His Holiness the Dalai Lama

rajiv malhotra

Other

Audio Book

105

A Life Of J R D : Beyond The Last Blue Mountain

RM Lala

Other

Audio Book

106

NR Narayana Murthy - A Biography

Ritu Singh

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/NR-Narayana-Murthy-A-Biography-Audiobook/B07NDKN4V8

107

Corporate Guru Dhirubhai Ambani

Prateeksha M. Tiwari

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Corporate-Guru-Dhirubhai-Ambani-Audiobook/B08VF7KQ6F

108

Nothing Like I Imagined

(Except for Sometimes)

Mindy Kaling

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Nothing-Like-I-Imagined-Audiobook/1713554887

109

Big Billion Startup: The Untold Flipkart Story

Mihir Dalal

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Big-Billion-Startup-Audiobook/B097RZKCQB

110

The Tatas

How a Family Built a Business and a Nation

Girish Kuber, Vikrant Pande - translator

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Tatas-Audiobook/B085WC2YM2

111

Aavarana

Sandeep Balakrishna - translator, S. L. Bhyrappa

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Aavarana-Audiobook/B01N9HPWXL

112

Gitanjali

Rabindranath Tagore

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/Gitanjali-Audiobook/B07YSV8R2R

113

One Mind

Larry Dossey

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/One-Mind-Audiobook/B01MZ26WI9

114

Rangeela Geedad

Gulzar

Other

Audio Book


115

The Pilgrim's Regress

C. S. Lewis

Other

Audio Book

https://www.audible.in/pd/The-Pilgrims-Regress-Audiobook/B01MY0MZU7



In Swami Ji's enlightening discourses in 3rd December, 23 He amusingly expressed a keen interest in His disciples’ mental wealth. This resonated deeply with me, becoming the driving force behind my ambitious goal of delving into 365 books this year. Looking ahead, my sights are set on surpassing this feat, reaching for more than 400 books and embracing more extensive works such as Eknath Ishwaran's 'The Bhagavad Gita for Daily Living' and 'Do You Quantum Think?' by Dianne Collins – works that demand significant time investments, 50 & 27 hours respectively.


I've cultivated this mental wealth through a blend of Audible for audiobooks and direct purchases from Sri Badrika Ashram or Amazon for printed texts. I have also utilized The District Library, Gurugram to full extent. Engaging with the diverse experiences captured in these pages and spoken words has proven invaluable in broadening my horizons – a journey that undoubtedly contributes to the expansion of one's mental wealth. Why not embark on your own literary adventure? The rewards are boundless!


Pic :Pexels


Sunday, July 9, 2023

The Significance of Keeping a Shiva Lingam at Home

Shiva Lingam, a sacred symbol representing Lord Shiva, holds immense significance in Hinduism. It is believed to embody the divine energy and power of Lord Shiva, the destroyer and transformer in the Hindu Trinity. Keeping a Shiva Lingam at home is a common practice among devotees who seek to establish a connection with the divine and invite Lord Shiva's presence into their lives.

The placement of the Shiva Lingam within your home is an important aspect to consider. While it is permissible to keep it in various areas such as the lawn or balcony, the North-East corner of the house is considered the most auspicious location. This corner is believed to be conducive to the energy associated with Lord Shiva and is often recommended by spiritual experts and priests.


However, it is not enough to simply place the Shiva Lingam as a decorative object in your home. If you wish to establish a deep connection with Lord Shiva, regular worship and rituals are essential. Without consistent devotion, the Lingam remains a mere symbol without its spiritual significance.


Performing daily rituals, known as puja, is a significant practice for connecting with the divine energy of Lord Shiva. Through prayers, mantras (japa), and specific rituals, you create a sacred atmosphere within your home and invite the presence of Lord Shiva. The more sincerely and diligently you engage in the puja, the more you can imbue the Lingam with the essence and blessings of Lord Shiva.


While daily puja is highly recommended, certain circumstances may prevent you from physically performing the rituals, such as when you are travelling. In such cases, it is advisable to mentally perform the puja. By maintaining a meditative state, visualizing the rituals, and offering prayers to Lord Shiva in your mind, you can continue to connect with the divine energy even when physical worship is not possible.



It is also suggested to divide your house into nine equal parts and worship Lord Shiva while sitting in the North, North-East, or East corner of the house. Facing towards the North, North-East, or East direction during worship is believed to enhance the spiritual connection and amplify the positive energies associated with Lord Shiva.


For daily worship of Lord Shiva, the Sadhana App offers a multitude of rituals, including yajna, japa, abhishekam, and nitya pooja. With this app, one can conveniently engage in these practices and deepen his/her spiritual connection with Lord Shiva.


By following these guidelines and approaching the worship of Lord Shiva with immense devotion, you open yourself to receive blessings and spiritual growth during the auspicious month of Shravana or at any time throughout the year.


In conclusion, keeping a Shiva Lingam at home can be a powerful way to establish a connection with the divine energy of Lord Shiva. By placing it in the North-East corner of your house and engaging in regular worship and rituals, you create a sacred environment and invite the presence of Lord Shiva into your life. Remember, it is not just the physical placement of the Lingam but also the sincerity and devotion in your worship that can truly imbue it with the essence of Lord Shiva.


Saturday, July 1, 2023

My Recommended Reading List on Kundalini


Recently someone asked me about Kundalini, my views and experiences about it. So, here they are....

In our body, we have 72,000 channels called nadis. Among them, there are 7 energy centres known as chakras. Kundalini energy is a dormant energy form. When it awakens, different types of sensations are felt. Some may feel as if a serpent is moving when the energy awakens, hence the name 'serpent.' However, everybody's experience is different.


When the Kundalini energy moves from the base chakra (mooladhara), it can be felt in various parts of the body, not just the spine. Wherever there is a concentration of energy, heat or burning sensation can be felt, as energy is naturally warm.


Individuals may experience a wide range of sensations as the Kundalini energy awakens and moves through their system. These sensations can vary from person to person, but here are some common experiences reported by practitioners as follows. 


1. Tingling or Vibrations: Many people feel subtle vibrations or tingling sensations in various parts of their body, particularly along the spine or at the energy centres (chakras).


2. Heat or Cold: Some individuals may feel waves of warmth or coolness flowing through their body or specific areas. These sensations are often associated with the movement of energy.


3. Electric-like Currents: People may experience sensations akin to an electric current moving through their body. It can be described as a gentle or intense energy flow.


4. Spontaneous Movements: Uncontrollable bodily movements, such as spontaneous jerks, twitches, or spontaneous yoga postures (kriyas), can arise as a result of Kundalini awakening.


5. Waves of Bliss or Ecstasy: Practitioners may feel intense states of bliss, joy, or ecstasy, which can be accompanied by feelings of deep peace, connectedness, and love.


6. Emotional Release: Kundalini Sadhana can sometimes trigger emotional release, leading to cathartic experiences, tears, laughter, or a wide range of emotions surfacing and dissipating.


7. Expanded Awareness: Some individuals may experience heightened states of awareness, increased clarity, or a sense of expanded consciousness during their practice.


It's important to note that these experiences are subjective and can vary greatly.


While most people's kundalini energy returns to the base chakra, advanced yogis can keep it at the third eye chakra (aagya chakra). This is a challenging practice and only a few yogis can achieve it. It requires intense tapas (austerity) and japa (recitation). The sadhanas (spiritual practices) for this are also very tough, so only a few yogis know how to hold their kundalini at the third eye chakra.


Typically, my Kundalini energy resides within my heart chakra. However, during meditation, it occasionally ascends to the Aagya chakra. Additionally, I have been fortunate enough to experience its presence in my sahasrara chakra, all thanks to the Grace of my esteemed Guru, Sri Om Swamiji.


To invoke the Kundalini, you can refer to page 93 of my book 'Japa Meditation: The Easiest Way to Calm the Mind' and follow the prescribed pranayama technique. Each person's experience of truth is unique.


It's not always necessary for the energy to descend back to the base chakra. If someone performs their work in a meditative state, with detachment, the kundalini energy will remain around an important chakra instead of slipping back to the base. That's why yogis advise performing duties with non-attachment while following the path of truth.


Because there’s a huge lack of authentic content online, it is recommended to read books, along with authentic websites like kundaliniyoga.org and my blog chandrikashubham.blogspot.com 


You can also consider reading books mentioned by My Guru Sri Om Swamiji in His Kundalini Retreat:


  1. Tantraloka by Abhinavagupta in English and Hindi.

  2. Shatchakranirupani in Hindi 

  3. Hatha Yoga Pradipika by Swami Muktibodhananda.

  4. Rudra Yamalam in Hindi.

  5. The Serpent Power by Arthur Avalon in English.

  6. Kundalini: The Untold Story by Om Swamiji in Hindi and English


Other than these, one can follow the Hatha Yoga book series of ‘The Bihar School of Yoga’  to learn more about mind, pranayama, asana, mudras and bandhas are as follows: 


1. Manage the Mind by Swami Satyananda.

2. Mudra Vigyan: Philosophy and Practice of Yogic Gestures - from the teachings of Swami Satyananda Saraswati and Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati.

3. Prana Vidya - Bihar School of Yoga.

4. Kundalini Tantra by Swami Satyananda Saraswati.

5. Sure Ways to Self-Realization - Bihar School of Yoga.

6. Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha: A Systematic Course in the Ancient Tantric Technique of Yoga and Kriya - Bihar School of Yoga.

7. Taming the Kundalini by Swami Satyananda Saraswati.

8. Gherand Samhita: Commentary on the Yoga Teachings of Maharishi Gheranda - Bihar School of Yoga.

9. Tattwa Shuddhi: The Tantric Practice of Inner Purification - Bihar School of Yoga.

10. Mooladhara Chakra - Bihar School of Yoga.

11. Ajna Chakra, Manipura Chakra, and Swadhisthana Chakra - by Rishi Nityabodhananda.

12. Moola Bandha: The Master Key by Swami Buddhananda.


Hindi versions of most of the books mentioned above are also available and are subject to availability.


For books on Kundalini Yoga, Swami Sivananda's books are highly recommended as they provide good and validated experiences shared by many.


Along with the above mentioned books one must also read these books:


1. Meditation and Mantras by Swami Vishnu Devananda


2. Kundalini: Path to Higher Consciousness

   Book by Pandit Gopi Krishna


3.  Autobiography by Gopi Krishna

   (Only available in English)


4. Books of Chakhmba Publication have also been praised in this subject.

  1. Vagyoga: Kundalini Meditation by Dr. Vagish Shastri

  2. Shrivagyogtantram Aparnam Shrikundalinigtantram श्री वग्योग्तंत्रम अपर्णम श्री कुंडलिनीग्तंत्रम (only in Hindi) Dr. Vagish Shastri

  3. Shakti Ka Jagran Or Kundalini शक्ति का जागरण और कुण्डलिनी by M. M. Pt. Gopinath Kaviraj (only in Hindi) 

  4. Chakras Healing And Kundalini Awakening By Yogic Techniques: Theory, Practices, And Benefits by Jai Paul Dudeja (only in English)

  5. Kundalini Sadhana Prasangकुण्डलिनी साधना प्रसंग by Arun Kumar Sharma. (only in Hindi)

  6. Kundalini-Shakti कुण्डलिनी-शक्ति by Arun Kumar Sharma.(only in Hindi) 


5. Gyaneshwar Gita in Hindi and English


List of some more books is here.


Shravan Adhik Maas: The Auspicious Month to Worship Lord Shiva


In the Hindu calendar, Shravan Maas holds great significance as it is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the supreme God of destruction. He enhances inner transformation through non attachment with materialistic things. This month is considered highly auspicious for devotees of Lord Shiva who engage themselves in different spiritual rituals, acts, practices and sadhanas for their spiritual progress, overall happiness and to seek His blessings.

Every three years, an extra lunar month called Adhik Maas, also known as Purushottam Maas, falls between the regular months to fill the gap between the solar and lunar calendar time. Adhik Maas is considered even more auspicious than the regular months, and when it coincides with Shravan Maas, it becomes a special time for spiritual aspirants. This year it is from 18th July to 16th August 2023. It is believed that performing spiritual practices and seeking Lord Shiva's blessings during this period can yield manifold (Adhik) benefits and accelerate one's spiritual growth. 


Devotees engage in various forms of worship and rituals during Shravan Maas to please Lord Shiva. Chanting powerful mantras like ‘Om Namah Shivaya’, ‘Dasha Akshari mantra’ and ‘Mahamrityunajaya mantra’ in Kailasha of Sadhana App are considered highly beneficial for spiritual growth, and overall well-being. Continuous repetition (japa) of these mantras helps spiritual seekers to build a strong bond with the Lord Shiva and to seek His Blessings.


Rudram, the ancient Vedic hymn dedicated to Lord Shiva, holds immense significance during Shravan Adhik Maas. Devotees can perform daily recitation of Rudram in Kailash of Sadhana App to invoke the divine energies and seek protection and blessings from Lord Shiva.


Apart from mantras and hymns, devotees also find spiritual solace in scriptural reading during this month. The Shiv Puran, available in both English and Hindi, is a revered text that recounts the stories, teachings, and glory of Lord Shiva. Engaging in scriptural reading helps deepen one's understanding of Lord Shiva's divine qualities and speeds up their spiritual growth.


Charitable acts hold immense significance during Shravan Adhik Maas. Devotees can donate items such as milk, curd, ghee, sugar, bananas, and white cloth to poor and needy people. These offerings are considered auspicious and symbolize devotion, purity, and surrender to the divine by seeing that same divine in everybody. It is an auspicious time to donate in Kailasha of Sadhana App.


Shravan Adhik Maas acts as a spiritual catalyst for seekers, providing an opportunity to develop intense devotion, self-discipline, and self-transformation. It is believed that sincere and dedicated observance of spiritual practices during this auspicious month can bring grace, protection, and spiritual upliftment. May this sacred month of Shravan bring abundance, blessings, and spiritual growth to all those who embark on this divine path with utmost devotion and love. Om Namah Shivaya!


Friday, June 30, 2023

Purushottam Maas/ Adhik Maas or Mal Maas


Purushottam Maas, also known as Adhik Maas or Mal Maas, is an additional lunar month in the Hindu calendar that occurs approximately every three years. Despite being regarded as an inauspicious month due to its association with the word 'Mal,' meaning impure or dirty as the festivals are not celebrated during this period. It is also called ‘Purushottam Maas’ as it holds significant spiritual importance for devotees as they can foster their inner journey through penance. The name is derived from its association with Lord Vishnu, as 'Purushottam' translates to 'Supreme Person.' It has a spiritual significance as the solar and lunar calendars are aligned with its addition and are also reasons for its name. This is also a very important month as in Shiv Puran it is mentioned, “The worship of Lord Vishnu performed during the month of Shravan fulfils desires and bestows good health!”

The phenomenon of Adhik Maas is a unique aspect of the traditional Hindu calendar. According to the Vasishtha Siddhantha, it occurs every 32 months, 16 days, and 8 ghadi (with one ghadi being 24 minutes approximately). In a solar year of 365 days and about 6 hours, and a lunar year of 354 days, there exists a gap of 11 days, 1 hour, 31 minutes, and 12 seconds. Over a time period of three years, this gap accumulates each year to form an additional month known as Adhik Maas/ Mal Maas/ Purushottam Maas. Generally, it is added within one of the months ranging from Chaitra to Ashwin, and occasionally in Phalgun as well. Although, it is not inserted during the months of Margasheesh, Paush, and Magh. It takes nearly 19 years for the Adhik Maas to reoccur in the same month.


According to Bhavishaye Puran, Malmas or Adhik Maas (also known as Purushottam Maas) is a month in the Hindu lunar calendar that does not have a corresponding solar month. It occurs approximately every two and a half years (thirty two months). During this month, there are no significant solar or lunar events. All ancestral rituals and ceremonies can be performed, but rituals like Yajna and marriage ceremonies are not conducted. Devotional activities such as pilgrimage, dev- darshan (viewing of deities), fasting, and rituals like Simantonnayan (baby shower) can be observed during this month. Similarly, these activities can also be performed in Shukrast (Venus is combust). Even royal coronation ceremonies can take place during Malmas. However, there are restrictions on certain activities during Malmas, such as starting of new fasts and new vows, establishing new deities, Chudakarma (tonsure), Upanayan (sacred thread ceremony), Mantrapasana (chanting of mantras), marriage, construction of new houses, housewarming ceremonies, adoption of a new stage of life (ashram), pilgrimage, consecration ceremonies, Kanya (girl) Dwiragaman (returning to parents' home after marriage), and Yajna (sacrificial rituals). 


Here are some key points regarding the importance of Purushottam Maas:


1. Purification and Atonement: Purushottam Maas is considered a time of purification and spiritual growth. It is believed that performing righteous deeds, engaging in spiritual acts, and observing religious practices during this month can help cleanse one's sins and purify the soul. It is a sacred month when individuals can embark on a transformative journey of spiritual purification and personal enlightenment.


2. Observances and Austerities: Many devotees undertake various religious observances and austerities during Purushottam Maas. This mostly includes observing fasts, reading sacred scriptures, performing religious rituals, offering prayers, and engaging in acts of charity. Such practices are believed to yield greater spiritual merit and accelerate one's progress on the spiritual journey.


3. Spiritual Discipline: Purushottam Maas provides an opportunity for devotees to intensify their spiritual discipline and deepen their connection with their Isht. It is seen as a favourable time for self-reflection, introspection, and strengthening one's devotion through chanting, meditation, and reciting of scriptures.


4. Resolving Past Karmas and Obligations: Purushottam Maas is considered a favourable period for clearing past karmas, fulfilling pending obligations, and resolving any past mistakes or shortcomings. Devotees often use this time to confess misdoings, seek forgiveness, make amendments, and rectify any past wrongdoings.


5. Special Festivals and Rituals: One prominent festival during this month is the Purushottam Ekadashi, a significant day dedicated to Lord Vishnu. On this special day, the devotees observe fast and chant His mantras. Other special days to offer prayers are Purushottam Dwadashi and Purushottam Purnima.


May the blessings of Sri Hari, the Supreme Person, be showered upon us, guiding us on the path of righteousness and bestowing spiritual enlightenment. May this Adhik Maas bring joy, peace, and spiritual progress to all, filling our lives with Divine Grace and Blessings.


Happy Adhik Maas to all, may this sacred month be a time of transformation, enlightenment, and Divine Blessings for each and every one of us.


Thursday, June 29, 2023

A Vision of My Mother's Manifestation as Goddess in Meditation


Whose eyes are these? They are so familiar!

During a recent chanting session of the Guru Mantra, an extraordinary experience unfolded before me. As I closed my eyes, I found myself immersed in the powerful mantra given to me by my revered Guru Sri Om Swamiji. I saw the radiant eyes, tenderly and lovingly, gazing at me. Gradually, the entire face became clearly visible. Aha! It was my mother! During the whole day, I talked and worked with her but she had given me a vision for the first time in meditation. This unique experience of witnessing my mother's manifestation as a Divine Goddess during meditation is unparalleled. It was a revelation, akin to the visions of revered deities such as Ma Kalratri and Ma Siddhlakshmi.


This spiritual experience reminds me of the interconnectedness of human relationships and spirituality. It highlights that the divine resides not only in holy places or places of worship but within our family members with whom we share the bond of love and affection. The Divine Mother, in her infinite Grace, chose to reveal Herself to me in the form of my own mother, amplifying the significance of our bond and the divinity within each and every person.


It stirred me like one of my previous spiritual experiences during Sri Hari's live aarti. At that moment, I was in tears, yearning for the love of Maa Lakshmi, when suddenly my mother entered my room. With utmost tenderness, she placed her right hand upon my head, providing comfort and assurance that she would always be there, supporting me through both laughter and tears. As I had always worshipped her as Ma Lakshmi!


The extraordinary vision of my mother as a manifestation of Divine Mother has forever imprinted itself upon my spiritual path as she is a guiding force behind my success in all endeavors. It has reaffirmed the boundless power of love and devotion that transcends the limitations of our earthly existence. A poignant reminder is that divinity can manifest in the most unexpected ways, offering solace, guidance, and a profound revelation of our interconnectedness within the tapestry of divine creation.


Wednesday, June 28, 2023

Vision of Red Light(s) in Deep Meditation


A spark of red light!

While performing the sacred sadhana of Maa Siddhalakshmi in the Golden Palace of Sadhana App, I had a vision of vibrant red light, the sacred color that adorned the form of the benevolent Goddess. It was Her color indicating Her presence. It was a profound sign, a testament to the intimate connection that I had built up over the time with the Divine Mother, the embodiment of abundance and prosperity. 


And as I continued my devotional practices, I found solace in the knowledge that the Divine, in all its boundless Grace, had chosen to reveal itself to me through the wondrous prism of bright red light. The red hue became a catalyst for introspection, compelling me to delve deeper into the depths of my spiritual practice. 


This was not the first time I had seen a red light in meditation. A few years back I experienced it. I was doing the mystical ‘Khand Mand Sadhana’, an extraordinary ritual of profound self purification as mentioned by Om Swamiji in ‘Devi Bhagavatam’ virtual retreat. As I began this intricate Sadhana, I surrendered myself to the Mother Divine with unwavering devotion. My consciousness became one with the ethereal realm, and a serene aura enveloped me like a loving embrace. In the midst of this profound practice, a sight greeted my yearning soul that I had never before witnessed. A brilliant flash of red light shimmered before me in deep meditation, illuminating the inner recesses of my being. My heart longed, and a sense of awe consumed me, for this sight was far from ordinary.  


And so, I continued my sacred Sadhana, basking in the radiance of the red light, forever grateful for the profound connection I share with the Divine. In the depths of my being, I carry the flame of devotion, seeking to explore the uncharted realms of spirituality and transcendence, forever immersed in the boundless love and grace of the Divine Mother. And then, a realization dawned upon me like the first light of dawn as red light dispels the darkness, ignorance, stimulates inner detachment from earthly interests and it is purely uplifting.


In the days that followed, the memory of the red light remained etched within the depths of my consciousness. It became a guiding beacon, a reminder of the profound spiritual journey that lay ahead. The vision of that extraordinary hue became a symbol of the Divine blessings that flowed into my life, a gentle reminder that our beloved Mother, in Her benevolence, would forever guide and protect me. With each passing day, I walked the path of devotion with newfound purpose, knowing that the realm of the Divine held endless mysteries waiting to be unravelled.


You see, in my spiritual journey, I had often encountered divine lights of violet and blue hues, their radiant glow signifying the presence of higher spiritual realms and self purification. Yet, the sight of red light, vibrant and fiery, held an inexplicable power that stirred my soul!