Dear Sri Sivaraman I have it which once posted Yes Moral Grit is Govt service used to be a laughing stock in one part of service but truth makes one sleep good at night which many do not get KR IRS 22226
On Sun, 22 Feb 2026 at 08:24, Madras Sivaraman <[email protected]> wrote: > I have interacted with Dr.Sharma several when he was president of India > .He was a man of great integrity and asked me not to heed to anyone who > came to me for anything quoting his name. > I have also narrated another incident in my autobiography.I can post my > autobiography on this site if you are interested.It is free to read. > > On Fri, 20 Feb, 2026, 18:51 Rajaram Krishnamurthy, <[email protected]> > wrote: > >> welcome sir KR >> >> On Fri, 20 Feb 2026 at 14:42, APS Mani <[email protected]> wrote: >> >>> Though a long post, it is brilliant! Mani >>> >>> On Fri, Feb 20, 2026 at 1:24 PM Rajaram Krishnamurthy < >>> [email protected]> wrote: >>> >>>> The meaning of the name Vasiṣṭha is given by Vasiṣṭha himself as >>>> follows:— >>>> >>>> I am known as Vasiṣṭha for two reasons. I am 'Vasumān >>>> <https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/vasuman#purana>'. The Śrutis >>>> <https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/shruti#purana> say that Air, >>>> Earth etc. are Vasus <https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/vasu#purana>. >>>> I have become Vasiṣṭha because I have brought under control the Vasus >>>> beginning with Aṇimā >>>> <https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/anima#purana> (the power of >>>> reducing the body to an atom). See what Arundhatī herself says, about the >>>> meaning of the name Arundhatī. >>>> >>>> "I consider mountains, earth and heaven as elements in which I live, >>>> only after considering my husband as the element in which I live. My >>>> husband is the first and foremost element in my life. Moreover I conform >>>> (anurodha) with the mind of my husband. So know me as Arundhatī." >>>> >>>> Arundhati, wife of Sage Vasishta, is famous for her chastity, piety and >>>> single-minded devotion for her husband. Due to her devoutness and >>>> faithfulness, she became a star in the sky known as Arundhati Nakshatra. >>>> Arundhati was the daughter of Kardama Prajapati and Devahuti. >>>> >>>> Arundhati’s birth and life are mentioned in various Hindu scriptures. >>>> The birth of Arundhati is found in the Shiva Purana and Bhagavata PuranaThe >>>> rivalry between Vishvamitra and Vasishtha which leads to the death of her >>>> hundred sons is described in the Balakanda of Valmiki’s Ramayana. The >>>> Mahabharata and several Brahmana works describe her sons, including Shakti, >>>> and grandson Parashara. Her role in pleading Shiva to marry Parvati is >>>> described in the sixth canto of Kumarasambhava of Kalidasa. >>>> As per the Bhagavata Purana, Arundhati is the eighth among the nine >>>> daughters of Kardama and Devahuti. She is the grandmother of Parashara >>>> and the great-grandmother of Vyasa. The Shiva Purana describes her as >>>> being Sandhya, the mind-born daughter of Brahma, in a previous birth. On >>>> instruction of Vasishtha, Sandhya pleased Shiva by penance in order to >>>> purify herself from passion, and Shiva asked her to jump into Medhatithi’s >>>> fire. She was then born as Medhatithi’s daughter and married Vasishtha. >>>> Some >>>> other Puranas describe her as the daughter of Kashyapa and sister of Narada >>>> and Parvata, and she was offered in marriage to Vasishtha by Narada. >>>> The Mahabharata describes Arundhati as an ascetic who used to give >>>> discourses to even the seven sages. The wife of Agni, Svaha, could >>>> therefore assume the form of the wives of the other six seers amongst >>>> Saptarshi but not that of Arundhati. The epic also narrates how once she >>>> pleased Shiva when it did not rain for 12 years and the seven seers were >>>> suffering without roots and fruits. Her chastity and service to her husband >>>> is mentioned as unparalleled in the Mahabharata. >>>> As per the Valmiki Ramayana, she bore a hundred sons, who were all >>>> cursed to die by Vishvamitra. She then bore a son named Shakti and later >>>> another one named Suyagya, who studied with Rama at Vasishtha’s hermitage. >>>> Some sources say she had eight sons including Shakti and Chitraketu. >>>> In traditional Indian astronomy, pair of Mizar and Alcor in >>>> constellation Ursa Major is known as Vasishtha and Arundhati >>>> Arundhati is identified with the morning star and with the star Alcor, >>>> which forms a double star with Mizar (identified as Vasishtha Maharshi) in >>>> Ursa Major. Arundhati, though the wife of one of the seven seers, is >>>> accorded the same status as the seven seers and is worshipped with them as >>>> such. In Vedic and Puranic literature, she is regarded as the epitome of >>>> chastity, conjugal bliss and wifely devotion. In post-Puranic epic >>>> poems , she has been described as “chaste and revered” and with a character >>>> that is “unblemished, inspiring and worthy of imitation”. In the Hindu >>>> culture, there are several beliefs, practices and traditions centred on >>>> Arundhati including a ritual in the marriage ceremony after the Saptapadi, >>>> a fast, a belief about imminent death, and a maxim. >>>> Since the Arundhati star is faintly visible, there is a belief that >>>> when someone is near death, they can not see the Arundhati star Due to its >>>> faintness, the Arundhati used to be shown in steps, first showing the >>>> brighter stars, and then relative to that the faint Arundhati star is >>>> directed. The maxim in Sanskrit called the Arundhatī darśananyāyaḥ >>>> (IAST:), used in the meaning of inferring the unknown from that which is >>>> known, is named after Arundhati. >>>> >>>> Arundhati. >>>> She was one of the nine daughters of Kardama Prajapati and his wife >>>> Devahuti. Arundhati is the wife of the sage Vashistha, one of the seven >>>> sages (Saptarshi) who are identified with the Ursa Major. She is identified >>>> with the morning star and also with the star Alcor which forms a double >>>> star with Mizar (identified as Vashista Maharshi) in Ursa Major. Arundhati, >>>> though the wife of one of the seven seers, is accorded the same status as >>>> the seven seers and is worshipped with them as such. In the Vedic and >>>> Puranic literature, she is regarded as the epitome of chastity, conjugal >>>> bliss and wifely devotion. In post-Puranic epic poems in Sanskrit and >>>> Hindi, she has been described as “chaste and revered” and with a character >>>> that is “unblemished, inspiring and worthy of imitation”. In the Hindu >>>> culture, there are several beliefs, practices and traditions centred on >>>> Arundhati including a ritual in the marriage ceremony after the Saptapadi, >>>> a fast, a belief about imminent death, and a maxim. >>>> During the creation of the universe, Lord Brahma >>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2016/12/02/brahma/> created various >>>> beings to assist him with his creation and to populate the universe. Brahma >>>> created ten Manasputras (mind-born sons): Marichi, Atri >>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2017/07/06/atri/>, Pulahu, Pulastya, >>>> Angiras, Kratu, Narada, Daksha >>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2019/01/03/daksha/>, Bhrigu >>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2019/07/01/bhrigu/>, and Vashishta. Each >>>> of these sons was born from a different part of Brahma’s body. Vashishta >>>> was created from the *prana* (breath) of Lord Brahma. After that, a >>>> beautiful lady sprung from Brahma’s mind. On seeing her, Vashishta, his 9 >>>> brothers, and his father all got up, enamored by the angelic woman. >>>> However, at that moment, another man sprung from Brahma’s mind. Vashishta >>>> and the other Manasputras named the man as Kama, the god of love >>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2019/01/02/kama/>, and the woman was >>>> named Sandhya. >>>> >>>> After Brahma had finished his creation, Kama decided to test his powers >>>> of love. He shot his arrows of love at Brahma, the Manasputras, and >>>> Sandhya. Soon, they started frequently staring at Sandhya. Brahma, >>>> Vashishta, and his nine brothers were completely overpowered by lust. >>>> Sandhya too started indicating her feelings from them with occasional >>>> glances. On seeing his brothers and father attracted to Sandhya, Dharma >>>> (another son of Brahma) prayed to Lord Shiva >>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2016/08/17/shiva/> for help. Shiva >>>> appeared there and scolded Brahma and his sons for their indecent behavior. >>>> Out of embarrassment for their actions, Vashishta and the others began >>>> sweating. From their sweat, different Pitrs (ancestors) were born. From >>>> Vashishta’s sweat, the Kalin class of Pitrs were born. Brahma was enraged >>>> at Kama and cursed him, but then blessed him. After this incident, >>>> Vashishta and the others went to their respective abodes. >>>> >>>> *The Story of Vashishta and Sandhya* >>>> >>>> *This story is in the Shiva Purana, Rudra Samhita, Sati Khanda, >>>> Chapters 5-7* >>>> >>>> Meanwhile, Sandhya too came out her trance and felt severely guilty for >>>> her actions. She decided that she would engage in penance to atone for her >>>> sins, and then she would kill herself. Sandhya went to the Chandrabhaga >>>> Mountain and began austere penance. Soon, Brahma came to know of Sandhya’s >>>> plan to end her life. Brahma approached Vashishta and said, “My son, >>>> Sandhya is currently performing penance at Chandrabhaga. She wishes to >>>> atone for her sins after what happened with Kama. Please go and teach her >>>> how to properly perform penance.” >>>> >>>> Vashishta obeyed his father and journeyed to the Chandrabhaga Mountain. >>>> He assumed a disguise and respectfully approached Sandhya, who was immersed >>>> in penance. Sandhya opened her eyes and addressed the sage, asking for >>>> instruction on how to please Shiva. Vashishta taught her the mantra to >>>> propitiate Shiva, demonstrated the various rites of penance, and then >>>> vanished from the spot. Thus, Sandhya began her penance and it continued >>>> for four Yugas. Finally, Shiva appeared before her, saying, “I am very >>>> pleased with your penance. You can chose whichever boon you desire.” >>>> >>>> *Sandhya’s Boons* >>>> >>>> Sandhya said, “For my first boon, I desire that no living being is born >>>> with lust. This is what happened to me, and I don’t want that to happen >>>> again. For my second boon, I desire that no woman becomes more famous than >>>> me! Let me have the greatest husband, and any other man that looks at me >>>> lustfully will become weak” >>>> >>>> “From now on, there will be four stages of life: infancy, childhood, >>>> youth, and old age. Humans can only become lustful after the childhood >>>> stage. They cannot be lustful at birth. As per your second wish, you will >>>> have a famous husband who will live for seven Kalpas. I know that you want >>>> to kill yourself after obtaining these boons. You must enter the fire at >>>> the *yagna* of Medhatithi Rishi. That way, you will become his >>>> daughter in your next birth. If you have chosen your husband for your next >>>> birth, make sure to remember him before you enter the fire,” Shiva said and >>>> then vanished. As per Shiva’s instructions, Sandhya reached Medhatithi’s >>>> *yagna* and entered the fire. As she immolated herself, *she >>>> remembered Vashishta and wished that he become her husband*. >>>> >>>> *Vashishta Marries Arundhati* >>>> >>>> When Medhatithi’s long sacrifice finally concluded, an infant girl >>>> emerged from the sacrificial fire. Medhatithi was overjoyed and adopted the >>>> girl as his daughter, naming her *Arundhati*, which means “one who >>>> does not hinder sacred rites”. >>>> >>>> The years passed, and Arundhati grew up under her father’s care to >>>> become a beautiful young woman. One day, Vashishta encountered Arundhati in >>>> the forest. He instantly fell in love with her, and she fell for him as >>>> well. They expressed their feelings for each other, and they were married >>>> in a grand ceremony. Vashishta and Arundhati had seven sons named >>>> Chitraketu, Purochis, Viracha, Mitra, Ulbana, Vasubhrdyana, and Dyumana. >>>> >>>> *Daksha Yagna* >>>> >>>> Daksha <https://glorioushinduism.com/2019/01/03/daksha/> conducted a >>>> grand yagna and invited all of the devas, rishis, and other important >>>> people in the Universe. Among the guests were Vashishta and Arundhati. >>>> However, because of Daksha and Shiva’s enmity, Shiva and Sati >>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2018/05/25/sati/> were not invited to >>>> the yagna. Sati was enraged and she went to the yagna site, committing >>>> suicide in the sacrificial fire. Hearing about this, a furious Shiva >>>> created the monster spirits Virabhadra and Mahakali from his matted hair. >>>> Virabhadra and Kali ravaged the yagna and killed many of its guests. >>>> However, Vashishta and Arundhati were spared from the wrath of the spirits. >>>> Later, after the yagna was destroyed, Shiva appeared and said that >>>> Vashishta, Atri, Pulastya, Angiras, Pulahu, Kratu, Bhrigu, and Marichi >>>> would be reborn in Chakshusha Manvatara. >>>> >>>> *Brahmayagna: Vashishta Reborn* >>>> >>>> *This story is in the Brahmanda Purana, Section 3, Chapter 1* >>>> >>>> At the end of the first Manvantara (Swayambhava Manvantara), Vashishta, >>>> Atri, Pulastya, Angiras, Pulahu, Kratu, Bhrigu, and Marichi passed away. >>>> They were transported to Janaloka >>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2016/10/10/janaloka/>, the heavenly >>>> realm of sages. Vashishta and the others remained at Janaloka for many >>>> Manvataras. Finally, at the end of the Chakshusha Manvantara, Varuna >>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2015/09/20/varuna/> performed a massive >>>> “Brahmayagna”. He invited all of the eminent devas and rishis. During the >>>> yagna, Brahma fell in love with some damsels, causing his semen to be >>>> discharged. Brahma put it in the sacrificial fire, and one by one, the >>>> eight sages were reborn from the fire. Lord Shiva’s words had come true! >>>> >>>> *Vashishta and Nimi* >>>> >>>> *This story is in the Devi Bhagavata Purana, Book 6, Chapter 14* >>>> >>>> Vashishta again grew up and became a renowned sage across Bharatvarsha. >>>> He married Aksamala, an incarnation of Arundhati. King Nimi, the ruler of >>>> Videha, appointed Vashishta as his Guru and royal priest. Nimi was a >>>> prosperous king loved by his subjects. One day, Nimi decided to perform a >>>> 5000-year long yagna to increase his fame. He invited all of the famous >>>> Brahmins and sages. Nimi then approached Vashishta and said, “I am >>>> performing a yagna, Guru. Since you are my Guru, please perform this yagna >>>> me. It will last five thousand years, and I will please Ambika Devi!” >>>> However, Vashishta responded, “Indra >>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2015/09/19/indra/> is also performing a >>>> yagna right now for five hundred years. He has already asked me to perform >>>> his yagna. You will have to wait until I finish Indra’s yagna. Wait until >>>> then. After I finish, I will come here.” >>>> >>>> King Nimi grew agitated. He had already invited all of the guests, and >>>> he made all of the preparations and arrangements. How could he delay the >>>> yagna by 500 years! He implored Vashishta to forget about Indra’s yagna and >>>> do his yagna instead. However, Vashishta refused and left the palace. He >>>> journeyed to Swarga >>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2016/10/15/swargaloka/> and began >>>> Indra’s yagna. Meanwhile, instead of waiting, Nimi decided to start the >>>> yagna with Gautama Rishi instead of Vashishta. >>>> >>>> *Vashishta Loses his Body* >>>> >>>> After five hundred years, Vashishta completed Indra’s yagna and >>>> immediately went to Nimi’s palace. However, when he entered the palace >>>> grounds, he saw the yagna being performed by someone else. Vashishta was >>>> enraged by the king’s behavior. He confronted Nimi and cursed, “Even though >>>> I am your Guru, you abandoned me and appointed somebody else for your >>>> yagna! I curse you that your body will be destroyed today!” >>>> >>>> Hearing Vashishta’s words, Nimi stated, “You are my Yajamana, and it is >>>> your duty as a Brahmin to perform my yagna for me. Yet, you chose somebody >>>> else over me. And now you are blaming me for your sins. You are cursing me >>>> when I have done nothing wrong. Since you have cursed me for nothing, I >>>> curse you that your body will be destroyed!” >>>> >>>> Vashishta didn’t know what to do. In a couple of hours, he would become >>>> bodiless. Only his soul would remain. A desperate Vashishta approached his >>>> father Brahma for help. He narrated what had happened between him and King >>>> Nimi, and asked for help. Brahma responded, “Go enter the bodies of >>>> Mitra <https://glorioushinduism.com/2016/07/16/mitra/> and Varuna >>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2015/09/20/varuna/>. Stay there, and >>>> soon, you will be reborn.” Vashishta bowed down and went to Varunaloka. His >>>> body soon left him and his soul entered the bodies of Mitra and Varuna. >>>> >>>> *Vashishta’s Third Birth* >>>> >>>> Once, the heavenly Apsara Urvashi went to Varunaloka with her friends. >>>> When Mitra and Varuna saw Urvashi, they immediately fell for her. They >>>> requested, “Seeing your beauty and grace, we have fallen in love with you. >>>> Please stay here with us.” Urvashi agreed to live with them. As Urvashi >>>> stayed with Mitra and Varuna, they became excited and their semen dropped >>>> in an uncovered jar. Because of this, two children were born. >>>> >>>> The first was Agastya, who became a famous ascetic and devoted his life >>>> to penance. The second was Vashishta, who was adopted by King Ikshvaku. >>>> King Ikshvaku knew that the child was none other than Vashishta, so he >>>> raised him with love and care. Vashishta grew up for the third >>>> and final time. He once again became very learned and became the family >>>> priest of the solar dynasty. He again married Arundhati, who had been >>>> reborn as the daughter of Kashyapa Rishi and the sister of Narada and >>>> Parvata. They had one hundred sons, the oldest of whom was Shakti Rishi. >>>> >>>> In Hindu tradition, *Vasistha and Arundhati* are the ultimate symbols >>>> of *marital harmony, equality, and spiritual partnership*. Their >>>> symbolism is rooted in both mythology and unique astronomical observations. >>>> >>>> [image: Vashishtha & Arundhati: The Twin Stars That Teach Us More ...] >>>> >>>> *1. Marital Equality (The Binary Star System)* >>>> >>>> Unlike most binary star systems where one star remains stationary while >>>> the other revolves around it, *Mizar (Vasistha)* and *Alcor >>>> (Arundhati)* revolve around each other in synchrony. >>>> >>>> - *Symbolism*: This represents a marriage where neither partner >>>> dominates the other. It signifies that husband and wife are equal >>>> partners >>>> who support and move in sync with one another to reach a common goal. >>>> >>>> *2. The Marriage Ritual (Arundhati Darshana)* >>>> >>>> During many Hindu wedding ceremonies, particularly in South Indian >>>> traditions, the groom shows the bride these stars in the northern sky. >>>> >>>> - *Significance*: The couple prays to be as steady, loyal, and >>>> inseparable as the twin stars. >>>> - *Arundhati-darshana-nyaya*: This is also a famous Sanskrit maxim >>>> (the "Method of pointing out Arundhati") used to explain a complex or >>>> unknown concept by first pointing out something visible and known (the >>>> brighter star, Vasistha) before guiding the observer to the subtler, >>>> fainter truth (the smaller star, Arundhati). >>>> >>>> *3. Virtue and Fidelity* >>>> >>>> Arundhati is revered as the epitome of *chastity (Pativratatva)* and >>>> devotion. >>>> >>>> - *Asceticism*: Legend says she performed severe penances and was >>>> the only one among the wives of the Saptarishis whose devotion was so >>>> pure >>>> that she remained by her husband's side, eventually becoming a star >>>> alongside him. >>>> - *Spiritual Strength*: Her name itself implies "one who does not >>>> obstruct," symbolising her role in supporting her husband’s *Dharma* >>>> (duty) >>>> without losing her own spiritual identity. >>>> >>>> *4. Astronomy Meets Spirituality * >>>> >>>> - *Ursa Major*: The stars are located in the *Saptarshi Mandala* (Big >>>> Dipper). >>>> - *Physical Distance*: Interestingly, Vasistha is approximately 78 >>>> light-years away, while Arundhati is about 81 light-years away. Despite >>>> this distance, they are perceived as an inseparable pair, reflecting how >>>> physical proximity matters less than spiritual alignment. >>>> >>>> (i) Vasiṣṭha changed Ilā a woman, into a man. (For details see under >>>> Ilā I). >>>> >>>> (ii) Wives and children. Seven sons Rajas, Gotra, Ūrdhvabāhu, Savana, >>>> Anagha, Sutapas and Śukra, were born to Vasiṣṭha by his wife Ūrjā. These >>>> seven pure and just persons were the Saptarṣis (seven hermits) in the first >>>> Manvantara. (Viṣṇu Purāṇa, Aṃśa I, Chapter 10). >>>> >>>> (Rāja, Gātra, Ūrdhvabāhu Savana, Alaghu, Śukra (and Sutapas are the >>>> names given in Agni Purāṇa, Chapter 20, of the sons of Vasiṣṭha born by his >>>> wife Ūrjā). >>>> >>>> (iii) Vasiṣṭha and emperor Nimi. (See under Nimi) >>>> >>>> (iv) The Ṛgveda of Vasiṣṭha. There are ten Maṇḍalas in Ṛgveda, of which >>>> the seventh Maṇḍala was composed by the sages of Vasiṣṭha’s hermitage. >>>> >>>> (v) Cursing Rāvaṇa. Once Rāvaṇa asked Vasiṣṭha to come as his teacher >>>> and teach him the Vedas and the other scriptures. Vasiṣṭha did not comply >>>> with his request. The angry Rāvaṇa got Vasiṣṭha a captive. But the King >>>> Kuvalayāśva of the Solar dynasty, liberated Vasiṣṭha from captivity. The >>>> rescued Vasiṣṭha cursed Rāvaṇa. You and your family will be exterminated by >>>> those born of the Solar dynasty." (Kamba Rāmāyaṇa, Yuddha Kāṇḍa). >>>> >>>> (vi) Vasiṣṭha jumped into the river. See under Adṛśyantī. >>>> >>>> (vii) In uniting Tapatī and Saṃvaraṇa Vasiṣṭha played a very prominent >>>> part. (See under Tapatī). >>>> >>>> (viii) It was Vasiṣṭha who put a stop to the sacrifice for the >>>> extermination of the Rākṣasas (giants) performed by Parāśara. (See under >>>> Parāśara). >>>> >>>> (ix) Vasiṣṭha and Mucukunda. See under Mucukunda. >>>> >>>> (x) Vasiṣṭha told Śrī Rāma the history of the dynasty of Ikṣvāku. >>>> (Vālmīki Rāmāyaṇa Bāla Kāṇḍa, Sarga 73). >>>> >>>> (xi) The hermitage of Vasiṣṭha was situated in the valley of mount >>>> Mahāmeru. (Mahābhārata, Ādi Parva, Chapter 29, Stanza 6). >>>> >>>> (xii) The cow of Vasiṣṭha was stolen by the eight Vasus See under >>>> Aṣṭavasus. >>>> >>>> (xiii) Vasiṣṭha was the teacher of Bhīṣma. (Mahābhārata Ādi Parva, >>>> Chapter 103, Stanza 45). >>>> >>>> (xiv) Vasiṣṭha participated in the Birth festival of Arjuna. >>>> (Mahābhārata Ādi Parva, Chapter 122, Stanza 51). >>>> >>>> (xv) Vasiṣṭha tried to commit suicide. (See under Adṛśyantī). >>>> >>>> (xvi) Vasiṣṭha shone in the assembly of Brahmā. (M.B Sabhā Parva, >>>> Chapter 11, Stanza 19). >>>> >>>> (xvii) In the Bhārata-battle an effort was made by Vasiṣṭha to dissuade >>>> Droṇa from the battle But it was in vain. (Mahābhārata Droṇa Parva, Chapter >>>> 190, Stanza 33). >>>> >>>> (xviii) Vasiṣṭha was one of the hermits who came to visit Bhīṣma on his >>>> bed of arrows. (Śānti Parva, Chapter 47, Stanza 7). >>>> >>>> (xix)Once rain failed in the world and creatures became miserable. At >>>> that time Vasiṣṭha fed the creatures. (Mahābhārata Anuśāsana Parva, Chapter >>>> 137). >>>> >>>> (xx) Once Indra lost the Devaloka (the world of the Devas) and he >>>> became gloomy and miserable. Vasiṣṭha went to him and consoled him. >>>> (Mahābhārata Śānti Parva, Chapter 291, Stanza 91). >>>> >>>> (xxi) Vasiṣṭha was one of the hermits who were Brahmin tribal workers. >>>> (Mahābhārata Śānti Parva, Chapter 296, Stanza 17). >>>> >>>> (xxii) Once Vasiṣṭha imparted knowledge to King Janaka. This >>>> exhortation is given in Mahābhārata, (Śāntī Parva, six chapters from 302). >>>> >>>> (xxiii) Vasiṣṭha was one of the twentyone Prajāpatis. (Mahābhārata >>>> Śānti Parva, Chapter 334, Stanza 36). >>>> >>>> (xxiv) Vasiṣṭha is considered to be one of the Citraśikhaṇḍīs >>>> (Saptarṣis—seven hermits) (See under Citraśikhaṇḍīs). >>>> >>>> (xxv) Once Vasiṣṭha talked about Puruṣārthas (the objects of life) to >>>> Brahmā. (Mahābhārata Anuśāsana Parva, Chapter 6). >>>> >>>> (xxvi) Vasiṣṭha talked to Saudāsa about giving cows as alms. >>>> (Mahābhārata Anuśāsana Parva, Chapter 78, Stanza 5). >>>> >>>> (xxvii) On another occasion Vasiṣṭha gave advice to Paraśurāma and >>>> talked about the origin of Gold. (Mahābhārata Anuśāsana Parva, Chapter 84, >>>> Stanza 44). >>>> >>>> (xxviii) Vasiṣṭha once told Arundhatī how weakness was caused. >>>> (Mahābhārata Anuśāsana Parva, Chapter 93, Stanza 31). >>>> >>>> (xxix) Vasiṣṭha avowed that he was not one of them who had stolen the >>>> lotus flowers of Agastya. (Anuśāsana Parva, Chapter 23, Stanza 114). >>>> >>>> (xxx) Āpava, Arundhatīpati, Brahmarṣi, Devarṣi, Hairaṇyagarbha, >>>> Maitrāvaruṇi, Vāruṇi, and such other words are used as synonyms of >>>> Vasiṣṭha, in the Mahābhārata. >>>> >>>> K RAJARAM IRS 20226 >>>> >>>> On Fri, 20 Feb 2026 at 10:32, 'gopala krishnan' via Thatha_Patty < >>>> [email protected]> wrote: >>>> >>>>> *SAGE VASISTHA-Part 5** –Final part* >>>>> >>>>> Dear friends, >>>>> >>>>> This posting about sage VASISTHA is compiled from Google search by >>>>> asking many questions curious to me and posted in my style which is >>>>> desired >>>>> by a few members *than as QA posting.* Information relevant from >>>>> Wikipedia is also included. >>>>> >>>>> *This posting is least intended to all knowing and criticizing and >>>>> fault finding members.* >>>>> >>>>> Hope the postings will be interesting and informative to many of my >>>>> friends. Since the information is more it is posted in parts. >>>>> >>>>> I have covered most of the incidents related to sage Vasistha, except >>>>> about his 100 sons death, failing of his attempts to commit suicide, his >>>>> lineage, his immortality and some smaller points. >>>>> >>>>> *This is FIFTH AND final part of the posting about Sage >>>>> Vasistha. * >>>>> >>>>> Gopalakrishnan 20-02-2026 >>>>> >>>>> Death of sons >>>>> >>>>> According to Hindu mythology, specifically in the Mahabharata and >>>>> Purāṇas, Sage Vasishta attempted suicide due to overwhelming, unbearable >>>>> grief after all his sons were killed by King *Kalmashapada,* who was >>>>> *under >>>>> the influence of a demon instigated by Sage Vishwamitra. * >>>>> >>>>> Even as a great sage who had mastered his senses, the utter >>>>> destruction of his entire lineage left him feeling that his life had lost >>>>> all purpose, driving him to despair. >>>>> >>>>> Key Reasons for the Suicide Attempt: >>>>> >>>>> Destruction of His Sons: Vishwamitra, in his extreme jealousy, >>>>> instigated a demon to possess King Kalmashapada, *causing him to kill >>>>> and devour all one hundred of Vasishta's sons, including his eldest son, >>>>> Shakti.* >>>>> >>>>> Intense Personal Grief: The profound emotional pain caused by the loss >>>>> of his family pushed the saint beyond his limit of endurance. >>>>> >>>>> Refusal to Use Powers for Revenge: While Vasishta had the immense >>>>> spiritual power (Brahmatejas) *to kill Vishwamitra or the king, he >>>>> had taken a vow of non-violence (Ahimsa) and non-retaliation*, >>>>> leaving him with no way to channel his anger, which turned inward as >>>>> despair. >>>>> >>>>> *Why He Failed (The Turning Point):* >>>>> >>>>> Vasishta tried to end his life by throwing himself into a fire, >>>>> jumping off a cliff, and tying himself with heavy rocks to drown in the >>>>> river (later known as the Beas or Vipasha). However, nature protected him: >>>>> >>>>> The fire would not burn him.The river recognized his holiness and >>>>> broke into hundreds of shallow channels to avoid drowning him. >>>>> >>>>> *He finally stopped his attempts when he heard the voice of his >>>>> daughter-in-law, Adrisyanti, reciting the Vedas.* >>>>> >>>>> He learned she was pregnant with his grandson, *Parashara*, who was >>>>> reciting the Vedas from the womb. Realizing there was still a descendant >>>>> to >>>>> carry on his line, he found the strength to live again. >>>>> >>>>> Sage Vasistha immortal >>>>> >>>>> Here is how and when the key, often-cited death experiences of Sage >>>>> Vasistha occurred: >>>>> >>>>> 1. The Episode of Suicide Attempts (Post-Death of His Children) >>>>> >>>>> The most commonly cited "death" story involves profound grief when >>>>> Sage Vishwamitra, out of jealousy, caused a demon to kill all 100 of >>>>> Vasistha’s sons. >>>>> >>>>> How: Overcome by grief, Vasistha tried to commit suicide multiple >>>>> times: >>>>> >>>>> He jumped from a high mountain peak, but the rocks became as soft as >>>>> cotton. >>>>> >>>>> He threw himself into a raging river (identified as the River >>>>> Vipasha/Beas), but the river refused to drown him and instead washed him >>>>> ashore, untying the ropes with which he had bound himself. >>>>> >>>>> Result: All his attempts to kill himself were unsuccessful, and he >>>>> eventually accepted his sorrow and continued his life as a sage. >>>>> >>>>> 2. Death by Curse Exchange with King Nimi >>>>> >>>>> In another account, Vasistha died due to a mutual curse between him >>>>> and his disciple, King Nimi. >>>>> >>>>> How: Vasistha went to perform a sacrifice for King Indra, causing a >>>>> delay in his duty to King Nimi. *Nimi appointed another priest.* >>>>> Enraged, Vasistha cursed Nimi to lose his body (die). Nimi, in turn, >>>>> cursed >>>>> Vasistha with the same fate. >>>>> >>>>> Result: Vasistha’s soul departed his body and merged into the elements >>>>> (Varuna and Mitra). He was later reborn from them when they saw the apsara >>>>> Urvashi. >>>>> >>>>> *End of the First Manvantara* >>>>> >>>>> The Puranas state that at the end of the first Manvantara (Swayambhava >>>>> Manvantara), Vasistha, along with other Saptarishis (Atri, Pulastya, >>>>> etc.), >>>>> passed away and was transported to a higher realm (Janaloka). >>>>> >>>>> *Key Context on Vasistha’s "Death"* >>>>> >>>>> Immortal Status: Despite these incidents, Vasistha is considered a >>>>> Saptarishi (one of the seven great sages) and *an immortal who >>>>> appears in different eras, including the Ramayana and Mahabharata.* >>>>> >>>>> The Yoga Vasistha: The text Yoga Vasistha portrays him as an >>>>> enlightened master who guides Lord Rama, often speaking on the transient >>>>> nature of life, death, and the body. >>>>> >>>>> Based on the narratives in the Mahabharata and Ramayana, the statement >>>>> that Vasistha’s sons were not up to his expectations is generally >>>>> considered incorrect in terms of their character or ability. Instead, >>>>> they were considered noble, virtuous, and capable—often described as equal >>>>> to Vasistha himself in energy. >>>>> >>>>> However, the misconception may arise from the tragic circumstances >>>>> surrounding their death, where they succumbed to anger, leading to >>>>> their demise. >>>>> >>>>> Key Aspects of Vasistha’s Sons >>>>> >>>>> Virtuous and Capable: Vasistha took great pride in his sons, >>>>> considering them capable, wise, and helpful in his duties. >>>>> >>>>> Their Death: The hundred sons of Vasistha (with Shakti being the >>>>> eldest) did not die because they failed to meet his moral or intellectual >>>>> standards. They were killed as a result of a deep, bitter rivalry >>>>> between Sage Vasistha and Sage Vishwamitra. >>>>> >>>>> The Incident: Vishwamitra, seeking to humiliate Vasistha, instigated >>>>> a demon to enter the body of King Kalmashapada. In this state, the >>>>> king killed and ate all of Vasistha's sons. >>>>> >>>>> The Role of Anger: While noble, they were not immune to human >>>>> emotions. The eldest son, Shakti, became furious with King >>>>> Kalmashapada for obstructing his path and cursed the king to become a >>>>> demon, which ultimately led to the destruction of all his brothers and >>>>> himself. >>>>> >>>>> The Lineage Continues >>>>> >>>>> Despite the destruction of his sons, Vasistha’s lineage did not end. >>>>> *Vasistha’s >>>>> daughter-in-law, Adrisyanti (widow of Shakti), was pregnant with >>>>> Parashara*, >>>>> who went on to become a great sage and eventually the father of Veda >>>>> Vyasa. >>>>> >>>>> In summary, Vasistha's sons were highly regarded, but they were >>>>> victims of a tragic, intense conflict between two great sages, rather than >>>>> being failures in their father's eye >>>>> >>>>> Who was sage Parasara? >>>>> >>>>> *Sage Parasara was the grand son of sage Vasistha, through his son >>>>> Sakthi.* >>>>> >>>>> *Sage Veda Vyasa* >>>>> >>>>> *Sage Veda Vysa was his great grandson of sage Vasistha.* >>>>> >>>>> *Vasistha and Arundhati elevated as stars* >>>>> >>>>> Based on Hindu mythology and scriptures, Vashisht and Arundhati are >>>>> considered immortal in spirit and were *elevated to the status of >>>>> stars in the nigh*t sky. >>>>> >>>>> They are not merely considered dead, but are believed to have attained >>>>> a celestial, eternal status due to their immense virtue and devotion. >>>>> >>>>> *Key details regarding their status:* >>>>> >>>>> Star Identification: In Indian astronomy and mythology, Sage Vashisht >>>>> is identified with the star Mizar and his wife Arundhati with the star >>>>> Alcor, located in the Saptarishi constellation (Ursa Major/Big Dipper). >>>>> >>>>> Divine Immortality: >>>>> >>>>> Due to Arundhati's exceptional loyalty and purity, the gods blessed >>>>> them with immortality. Unlike other sages who might only be recognized by >>>>> a >>>>> single star, Arundhati is specially accorded the status of being a >>>>> star alongside her husband, often viewed together by newlyweds to >>>>> symbolize >>>>> marital harmony. >>>>> >>>>> Symbolism in Marriage: >>>>> >>>>> They are considered the "ideal couple" in Hindu tradition, and >>>>> observing the Arundhati-Vashisht star pair during weddings is a ritual >>>>> meant to bring fidelity and trust to the new marriage. >>>>> >>>>> Inseparable Nature: >>>>> >>>>> According to some interpretations, when other, less devoted stars were >>>>> absorbed, Arundhati remained, symbolizing that she and Vashisht do >>>>> not get extinguished during the cyclical destruction of the world. >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> *Sage vasistha in Mahabharatha* >>>>> >>>>> Philosophical Teachings: >>>>> >>>>> Vashistha's teachings on morality, dharma, and the futility of anger >>>>> are, at times, referred to in the text, *particularly in the >>>>> Anushasana Parva. * >>>>> >>>>> * In the Context of Puranas (Multiple Births)* >>>>> >>>>> According to the Puranic Encyclopedia, Sage Vasistha died during the >>>>> sacrifice of Daksha and was born again from the sacrificial fire of >>>>> Brahma. >>>>> His second earthly existence was later terminated due to a curse from King >>>>> Nimi. >>>>> >>>>> Vasistha Ashram at Guwahati >>>>> >>>>> There is an Ashram dedicated to Vasishtha in Guwahati, India. This >>>>> Ashram is situated close to Assam-Meghalaya border to the south of >>>>> Guwahati >>>>> city and is a major tourist attraction of Guwahati. >>>>> >>>>> Vasistha temple >>>>> >>>>> Vasishtha's Temple is situated in Vashisht village, Himachal Pradesh. >>>>> >>>>> Vasistha Cave >>>>> >>>>> Vashishtha Cave, a cave on the banks of Ganges at Shivpuri, 18 >>>>> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/Shivpuri,%0D%0A18?entry=gmail&source=g> >>>>> km from Rishikesh is also locally believed to be his winter abode and >>>>> houses a Shiva temple, also nearby is Arundhati Cave. >>>>> >>>>> *End of posting about Sage Vasistha* >>>>> >>>>> -- >>>>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google >>>>> Groups "Thatha_Patty" group. >>>>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send >>>>> an email to [email protected]. >>>>> To view this discussion visit >>>>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/thatha_patty/835024810.293532.1771563712907%40mail.yahoo.com >>>>> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/thatha_patty/835024810.293532.1771563712907%40mail.yahoo.com?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >>>>> . >>>>> >>>> -- >> On Facebook, please join https://www.facebook.com/groups/keralaiyerstrust >> >> We are now on Telegram Mobile App also, please join >> >> Pattars/Kerala Iyers Discussions: https://t.me/PattarsGroup >> >> Kerala Iyers Trust Decisions only posts : https://t.me/KeralaIyersTrust >> >> Kerala Iyers Trust Group for Discussions: >> https://t.me/KeralaIyersTrustGroup >> --- >> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups >> "KeralaIyers" group. >> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an >> email to [email protected]. >> To view this discussion visit >> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/keralaiyers/CAL5XZop0DJA0KUott06hN9gx3Vua1s9wvwgZx2uPVGeGqN0DwQ%40mail.gmail.com >> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/keralaiyers/CAL5XZop0DJA0KUott06hN9gx3Vua1s9wvwgZx2uPVGeGqN0DwQ%40mail.gmail.com?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >> . >> > -- > On Facebook, please join https://www.facebook.com/groups/keralaiyerstrust > > We are now on Telegram Mobile App also, please join > > Pattars/Kerala Iyers Discussions: https://t.me/PattarsGroup > > Kerala Iyers Trust Decisions only posts : https://t.me/KeralaIyersTrust > > Kerala Iyers Trust Group for Discussions: > https://t.me/KeralaIyersTrustGroup > --- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "KeralaIyers" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to [email protected]. > To view this discussion visit > https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/keralaiyers/CADLnUxj7Aj%2BxvCmSPx-BWcX0RuNWHNU1rG9Qk35evmyS23GEWg%40mail.gmail.com > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/keralaiyers/CADLnUxj7Aj%2BxvCmSPx-BWcX0RuNWHNU1rG9Qk35evmyS23GEWg%40mail.gmail.com?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Thatha_Patty" group. 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