Story of Tulasi , why it is worshipped in home and temples

Tulasi, also known as Vrinda, was a devout and virtuous maiden. She was deeply devoted to Lord Vishnu and spent her life in penance and prayer, seeking his blessings. Her devotion was so intense that it caught the attention of the gods and demons alike.

According to the legend, Tulasi was married to the demon king Jalandhar, who possessed great power and invincibility. Jalandhar's strength was derived from the unwavering chastity and devotion of Tulasi. As long as Tulasi remained pure and devoted to Jalandhar, no one could defeat him.

Jalandhar, emboldened by his invincibility, began to challenge the gods and wreak havoc in the heavens. The gods, unable to defeat Jalandhar, sought the help of Lord Vishnu to restore order. Lord Vishnu devised a plan to weaken Jalandhar's power. Disguising himself as Jalandhar, Vishnu approached Tulasi and managed to deceive her into believing that he was her husband. Tulasi, unaware of the deception, welcomed Vishnu with open arms, thus breaking her vow of chastity.

As a result, Jalandhar lost his divine protection and was defeated by the gods. When Tulasi realized that she had been deceived, she was heartbroken and felt betrayed by Lord Vishnu. In her grief and anger, she cursed Vishnu, condemning him to turn into a black stone (Shaligram) and be separated from his beloved Lakshmi.

Moved by Tulasi's devotion and sorrow, Vishnu revealed his true form and consoled her. He then blessed Tulasi, transforming her into the sacred Tulasi plant. Vishnu declared that Tulasi would be worshipped alongside him and that her leaves would always be an essential part of his offerings.

The story of Tulasi and Vishnu is commemorated in the festival of Tulasi Vivah, which marks the ceremonial marriage of the Tulasi plant (representing goddess Tulasi) with Lord Vishnu, symbolized by a Shaligram stone or Krishna idol. This festival is celebrated with great devotion and joy, signifying the union of the divine and the earthly.

The legend of Tulasi and Vishnu highlights the themes of devotion, sacrifice, and the divine interplay between the gods and their devotees. It underscores the importance of faith and the belief that true devotion can transcend even the greatest of adversities.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy and the miracle Parrot

In the hallowed town of Mantralayam, where the Tungabhadra whispers tales of devotion, lived the revered saint Sri Raghavendra Swamy. Renowned for his wisdom and boundless compassion, his presence graced the land like a benediction. One day, a distraught merchant named Venkataratnam arrived at the mutt, his face etched with worry. He prostrated before Swamy and poured out his heart.

Venkataratnam, a kind man known for his honesty, had been swindled by a cunning trader. A large sum of money, his life savings, had vanished overnight, leaving him and his family on the brink of ruin. Tears welled up in his eyes as he recounted his misfortune, seeking solace and guidance from the saint.

Swamy listened patiently, his gaze radiating empathy. He then turned to a curious sight - a vibrant green parrot perched on a nearby branch, its beady eyes seemingly observing the conversation. With a gentle smile, Swamy addressed the parrot, "Mitra, this man seeks justice. Can you help him find the thief who stole his money?"

To everyone's astonishment, the parrot tilted its head and spoke in a clear, human voice, "Swamy, I saw the thief. He was a tall man with a scar on his right cheek. He fled towards the northern forest just before dawn."

A gasp rippled through the devotees present. Venkataratnam, speechless with wonder, looked at Swamy with newfound hope. The saint instructed him, "Follow the parrot's directions, Venkataratnam. You will find your money and expose the culprit."

Emboldened by faith and the parrot's guidance, Venkataratnam journeyed into the forest. He followed the chirping bird, its emerald wings flashing through the foliage, until he reached a hidden clearing. There, huddled under a tree, was the man described by the parrot. Confronted, the thief confessed his crime and returned the stolen money, overwhelmed by the uncanny intervention of the talking bird.

Venkataratnam returned to Mantralayam, his heart overflowing with gratitude. He fell at Swamy's feet, tears of joy mixing with relief. The saint simply smiled and said, "The parrot was merely an instrument, son. It was your faith and the grace of the divine that led you to justice."

The news of this astonishing miracle spread like wildfire, solidifying Swamy's reputation as a divine being who could intercede even through unexpected means. The talking parrot became a legend, a symbol of Swamy's boundless compassion and his ability to answer the cries of the suffering.

This story serves as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the boundless compassion of Sri Raghavendra Swamy. It reminds us that even in the darkest moments, miracles can bloom, guided by the hand of the divine and the whispers of faith.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy and the Golden Brick

Mantralayam, nestled on the banks of the Tungabhadra river, reverberated with the chants of devotees seeking the blessings of Sri Raghavendra Swamy. Renowned for his wisdom and humility, the Swamy was a magnet for souls yearning for spiritual solace. One day, a wealthy merchant named Venkataraya arrived at the Mutt, brimming with pride and arrogance. He had amassed immense wealth through trade and believed it to be the source of all power and respect.

Venkataraya, adorned with lavish jewels and silken robes, strode into the Swamy's presence, expecting immediate attention. However, the Swamy remained engrossed in a religious discourse, his gaze serene and unmoved by the merchant's ostentatious display. This indifference enraged Venkataraya, who saw it as an insult to his riches.

Furious, Venkataraya interrupted the discourse, throwing at the Swamy's feet a solid gold brick he had brought as an offering. "See the true measure of my devotion, Swamy!" he bellowed. "This golden brick is worth more than your entire Mutt!"

The Swamy's eyes twinkled with amusement. He picked up a simple clay brick lying nearby and weighed it in his hand. "Venkataraya," he said with a gentle smile, "the value of an offering lies not in its price, but in the humility of the heart that makes it."

He placed the clay brick on the golden one, their contrasting colors symbolizing the clash between material wealth and spiritual purity. To everyone's amazement, the clay brick, blessed by the Swamy's touch, began to radiate a celestial light, outshining the golden one.

Venkataraya's arrogance melted away, replaced by shame and awe. He understood that true devotion didn't lie in ostentatious displays, but in genuine humility and surrender. He prostrated himself at the Swamy's feet, begging for forgiveness.

The Swamy lifted him up with compassion. "Venkataraya," he said, "remember, true wealth lies not in gold and jewels, but in the treasures of the soul – humility, devotion, and love for all beings."

The golden brick remained at the Mutt, a constant reminder of Venkataraya's transformation and a testament to the power of humility in the eyes of the Divine. This story resonated with the devotees, teaching them that true devotion transcends material possessions and finds its expression in the purity of one's heart.

So, the next time you visit Mantralayam, gaze upon the golden brick and be reminded that the greatest offering you can make to the Divine is not your riches, but your humility and genuine devotion.

A New Year's Eve to Remember , From Lost to Found

New Year's Eve. A night of glittering promises, champagne bubbles fizzing with hope, and fireworks painting the sky with fleeting wishes. But for Maya, this year's celebration felt more like a deflated balloon, limp and forgotten in a corner.

She'd envisioned celebrating with friends, their laughter echoing through a crowded rooftop party, the city lights twinkling like scattered diamonds. Instead, she found herself curled up on the couch, surrounded by the remnants of a takeout dinner and the hollow silence of her apartment.

A missed promotion, a recent breakup, and a nagging sense of being adrift had cast a long shadow over her holiday spirit. As the clock ticked closer to midnight, the festive cheer outside felt like a cruel taunt. Just as Maya contemplated drowning her sorrows in a tub of ice cream, her phone buzzed, shattering the quiet.

It was Sarah, her old college roommate, the one who could always coax a smile out of Maya, even on her darkest days. In a whirlwind of excited chatter, Sarah announced a spontaneous road trip, a last-minute escape to a cozy cabin nestled in the mountains.

Hesitantly, Maya packed a bag, the fresh mountain air and the promise of Sarah's infectious laughter pushing aside her doubts. The drive was a blur of winding roads and shared stories, the city lights fading into a distant twinkle as they embraced the inky darkness of the countryside.

The cabin, a rustic haven nestled amidst towering pines, felt like stepping into a scene from a cozy Christmas movie. A crackling fireplace roared in the stone hearth, casting warm shadows on the worn wooden furniture. Sarah whipped up a feast of simple comfort food, and as they devoured it, they reminisced about college days, dreams chased, and lessons learned.

The air buzzed with a quiet magic, far removed from the orchestrated frenzy of the city celebrations. As the clock struck midnight, they ventured outside, bundled in thick coats, their breath misting in the crisp air. Standing under a sky dusted with a million diamond stars, they didn't need fireworks or confetti. Their shared laughter, the warmth of their friendship, and the quiet promise of a new year stretching before them were enough.



The next morning, Maya woke up feeling lighter than she had in weeks. The mountain air had cleared her head, and the bond with Sarah had rekindled a spark of hope. They spent the day exploring the snow-covered woods, their boots crunching on the pristine white canvas. In the quietude of nature, Maya found a renewed sense of peace, a connection to something bigger than herself.



As they drove back to the city, the city lights welcoming them like old friends, Maya knew this New Year's Eve would forever be etched in her memory. It wasn't the grand celebration she'd envisioned, but it was a night of rediscovery, a reminder that true magic often lies in the quiet moments, in the unexpected detours, and in the unwavering presence of genuine connection.
 

This New Year's Eve, let's remember:

• Sometimes, the best plans are the ones we don't make.Be open to unexpected adventures, the kind that lead you down winding roads and into cozy cabins under starry skies.
• True magic lies in the connections we forge. Cherish your friends, the ones who see through your facade and make you laugh even on your darkest days. 
• Hope can be found in the quietest corners.Take a moment to breathe, to appreciate the simple joys, and to listen to the whispers of your own heart.

May your New Year be filled with unexpected adventures, rekindled connections, and a quiet ember of hope burning brightly within you. Happy New Year!

The story of Chandraghanta form of Durga , Navaratri special

Navaratri is a Hindu festival that celebrates the nine forms of Goddess Durga, the supreme power of the universe. Each day of the festival is dedicated to a different aspect of the goddess, who represents the victory of good over evil. Here is an interesting mythological story about one of the forms of Durga, known as Ma Chandraghanta.

Ma Chandraghanta is the goddess worshiped on the third day of Navaratri. She is depicted as having ten arms, holding various weapons and a lotus flower. She rides a tiger and has a crescent moon on her forehead, resembling a bell. She is the symbol of peace, serenity, beauty and bravery.

According to one legend, Ma Chandraghanta was once Parvati, the daughter of the king of mountains, Himavan. She was in love with Lord Shiva, the ascetic god who lived in the Himalayas. She performed severe penance to win his heart and finally succeeded in marrying him. However, her father was not happy with her choice, as he considered Shiva to be a wild and uncivilized deity.

On the day of their wedding, Shiva arrived at Parvati's palace with his army of ghosts, goblins, demons and animals. He was dressed in animal skins and had ashes smeared on his body. He had a snake around his neck and a trident in his hand. He looked terrifying and fierce.

When Himavan saw Shiva and his entourage, he was shocked and frightened. He thought that Shiva had come to destroy his kingdom and harm his daughter. He refused to welcome him and asked him to leave. Parvati was hurt by her father's behavior and tried to convince him that Shiva was a great god who loved her dearly. She told him that Shiva had many forms and that he could also be gentle and kind.

She then prayed to Shiva to show his most beautiful and charming form to her father and his guests. Shiva heard her prayer and agreed to change his appearance. He transformed himself into a handsome and noble prince, wearing fine clothes and jewels. He also changed his army into well-dressed and courteous men.

When Himavan saw this transformation, he was amazed and delighted. He realized his mistake and apologized to Shiva for his rudeness. He welcomed him with honor and respect and gave him his daughter's hand in marriage.

Parvati was overjoyed by this turn of events and thanked Shiva for his grace. She also decided to change her own appearance to match her husband's new form. She adorned herself with beautiful ornaments and clothes and wore a crescent moon on her forehead as a sign of her devotion to Shiva.

She then came out of her palace to join Shiva for the wedding ceremony. When everyone saw her, they were stunned by her beauty and radiance. They praised her as Ma Chandraghanta, the goddess who wears a moon-bell on her forehead.

Since then, Ma Chandraghanta is worshiped as one of the forms of Durga, who blesses her devotees with happiness, prosperity and courage. She also protects them from evil forces and enemies². She is the embodiment of love, harmony and grace¹.

This is one of the many stories that are told during Navaratri, which is celebrated in different ways across India. The festival is a time to honor the divine feminine power that creates and sustains the universe. It is also a time to seek the blessings of Ma Durga for success, health and peace.

Journey of a Raindrop - a beautiful story

He was born in the clouds, high above the earth. He was one of the many droplets that formed when the warm and moist air rose and cooled down. He was happy and free, floating in the sky with his friends. He loved to watch the sun, the moon, and the stars, and to feel the wind caressing him.

One day, he felt a change in the air. It became colder and heavier, and he sensed a force pulling him down. He realized that it was time to leave his home and start his journey. He was scared and excited at the same time. He wondered what he would see and experience on his way.

He said goodbye to his friends and joined the others who were falling. He felt a rush of adrenaline as he plunged towards the earth. He saw the mountains, the forests, the rivers, and the cities below him. He felt the warmth of the sun, the chill of the snow, and the sting of the lightning. He heard the thunder, the birds, and the people.

He landed on a leaf of a tree in a park. He was amazed by the beauty and diversity of life around him. He saw insects, birds, animals, and humans. He felt their joy, their pain, their love, and their hate. He learned about their stories, their dreams, their fears, and their hopes.

He stayed on the leaf for a while, until he felt another force pushing him off. He slid down the leaf and fell into a stream. He joined other droplets who had also fallen from different places. They became one body of water, flowing together. He felt a sense of belonging and harmony with them.

He followed the stream as it merged with other streams and rivers. He saw more wonders and wonders of nature and civilization along his way. He crossed bridges, dams, waterfalls, lakes, and canals. He met more creatures and people who depended on him for their survival and happiness.

 

He reached the ocean, where he met his old friends who had also fallen from the clouds. They were happy to see each other again. They shared their stories and experiences with each other. They realized how much they had grown and changed during their journey.

They also realized that their journey was not over yet. They felt another change in the air. It became warmer and lighter, and they sensed a force lifting them up. They realized that it was time to leave their home and start their journey again.

They said goodbye to their friends and joined the others who were rising. They felt a rush of joy as they soared towards the sky. They saw the earth below them, with all its beauty and diversity. They felt grateful for all that they had seen and experienced on their way.

They reached the clouds, where they met new friends who had also risen from different places. They became one body of air, floating together. They felt a sense of wonder and curiosity about what would happen next.

They waited for their next adventure, knowing that they would never stop learning and growing.

Grandfather story on National Anthem of India

Raj was a curious boy who loved to learn new things. He was especially fascinated by the history and culture of his country, India. He often asked his grandfather, who was a retired teacher, to tell him stories about the past.

One day, Raj asked his grandfather, "Dada, how was our national anthem created and selected? Who wrote it and why?"

His grandfather smiled and said, "Well, my dear Raj, that's a long story. But I will try to tell you in a simple way. Our national anthem is called Jana Gana Mana, which means 'Thou Art the Ruler of the Minds of All People'. It was written by a great poet and Nobel laureate named Rabindranath Tagore in Bengali language in 1911. He was also a musician and composed the tune for the song."

"Wow, he must have been very talented," Raj exclaimed.

"Yes, he was. He wrote many poems, songs, stories, plays, essays, and novels. He also founded a school and a university called Shantiniketan, where he taught his students to appreciate nature, art, and humanity. He was a visionary who dreamed of a free and united India," his grandfather continued.

"So how did his song become our national anthem?" Raj asked.

"Well, it was not an easy process. There were many other songs that were proposed as the national anthem, such as Vande Mataram, Sare Jahan Se Achha, and Jhanda Uncha Rahe Hamara. Some people argued that Tagore's song was too long, too difficult to sing, or too loyal to the British crown. Some people even doubted that he wrote it himself," his grandfather explained.

"Really? Why would they think that?" Raj wondered.

"Because the song was first sung at a session of the Indian National Congress in Calcutta in 1911, where the British King George V and Queen Mary were present as guests. Some people thought that Tagore wrote the song to praise them. But that was not true. Tagore later clarified that he wrote the song as a tribute to God, who is the true ruler of all people and nations," his grandfather said.

"Oh, I see. So how did it get accepted as the national anthem?" Raj asked.

"It took many years and debates. Finally, in 1950, after India became independent from British rule, the Constituent Assembly of India adopted the first stanza of Tagore's song as the national anthem on 24 January 1950. The rest of the verses are still part of the original song, but they are not sung officially," his grandfather said.

"I see. So what does the first stanza mean? Can you explain it to me?" Raj requested.

"Of course. Let me recite it for you and then translate it into Hindi," his grandfather said.

He then sang the anthem with emotion and pride:

Jana-gana-mana-adhinayaka jaya he
Bharata-bhagya-vidhata
Punjab-Sindh-Gujarat-Maratha
Dravida-Utkala-Banga
Vindhya-Himachala-Yamuna-Ganga
Uchchhala-jaladhi-taranga
Tava shubha name jage
Tava shubha ashisha mage
Gahe tava jaya-gatha

He then translated it as:

Hey Prabhu! Tum sabhi ke manon ka adhipati ho
Bharat ki bhagya rekha tumne hi banayi hai
Punjab-Sindh-Gujarat-Maratha
Dravid-Utkal-Bangal
Vindhya-Himalaya-Yamuna-Ganga
Unche-sagar ki lehren
Tere shubh naam se jag uthta hai
Tere shubh ashirwad se sabhi mangal paate hain
Tere jaya-gaan hum gaate hain

He then explained it as:

O Lord! You are the master of all minds
You have shaped the destiny of India
Punjab-Sindh-Gujarat-Maratha
Dravid-Utkal-Bangal
Vindhya-Himalaya-Yamuna-Ganga
The waves of the high seas
They wake up with your auspicious name
They receive blessings from your auspicious wishes
They sing your songs of victory

"Do you understand now?" his grandfather asked.

"Yes, Dada. It is a beautiful song that celebrates our diversity and unity. It praises God who guides us and protects us. It expresses our gratitude and devotion to Him," Raj said.

"That's right, my dear Raj. And do you know how to respect our national anthem?" his grandfather asked.

"Yes, Dada. I learned it in school. We have to stand up straight and still when the anthem is played or sung. We have to sing along with it or listen to it attentively. We have to face the national flag or the source of the anthem. We have to not talk or laugh or do anything else that distracts us from the anthem. We have to not wear any headgear or cover our face during the anthem. We have to not play the anthem for commercial or entertainment purposes. We have to not disrespect the anthem in any way," Raj said.

"Very good, Raj. You have learned well. These are some of the general rules and guidelines that we have to follow while singing or listening to our national anthem. They show our love and respect for our country and our God," his grandfather said.

"Thank you, Dada, for telling me this story. I feel proud to be an Indian and a follower of Tagore. I will always remember his words and his message," Raj said.

"You are welcome, Raj. I am glad you enjoyed it. Now, let us sing the anthem together once more and feel its spirit in our hearts," his grandfather said.

They then sang the anthem with joy and pride, feeling a bond with each other and with their country.

Coconut story of Sri Raghavendra Swamy and Appanacharya

Sri Raghavendra Swamy was a great scholar and teacher of the Vedas and other scriptures. He was also a master of astrology and palmistry. He had many disciples and followers who revered him for his wisdom and devotion. He was also known for his miraculous powers and healing abilities.

One day, a poor Brahmin named Appanacharya came to Mantralayam to seek the blessings of Sri Raghavendra Swamy. He had heard about his fame and wanted to learn from him.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy welcomed him warmly and asked him to stay in his mutt (monastery) for some time. He also taught him the principles of Dvaita philosophy and the importance of bhakti (devotion) to Lord Hari and Vayu.

Appanacharya was very impressed by Sri Raghavendra Swamy and became his ardent disciple. He also developed a deep bond of friendship with him.

He decided to dedicate his life to the service of Sri Raghavendra Swamy and his mutt. He used to perform various chores such as cooking, cleaning, fetching water, etc. for the mutt.

He also used to accompany Sri Raghavendra Swamy wherever he went and assist him in his spiritual activities.

He was very happy and content with his simple life.

One day, Sri Raghavendra Swamy told Appanacharya that he had decided to enter into Jiva Samadhi (a state of living death) in a Brindavan (a tomb-like structure) at Mantralayam.

He said that he had completed his mission on earth and wanted to merge with Lord Hari and Vayu in spirit.

He said that he would be alive in spirit for 700 years and would bless his devotees who came to his Brindavan.

He also said that he would enter into Jiva Samadhi on an auspicious day after a month.

Appanacharya was shocked and saddened by this news. He could not bear the thought of losing his beloved guru and friend.

He pleaded with Sri Raghavendra Swamy to change his mind and stay with him for some more time.

 

He said that he would not be able to live without him.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy consoled him and said that he should not be attached to his physical body, as it was perishable and temporary.

He said that he should be attached to his soul, which was eternal and immortal.

He said that he would always be with him in spirit and guide him from within.

He said that he should continue his service to the mutt and the devotees with devotion and dedication.

He said that he should also spread the message of Dvaita philosophy and the glory of Lord Hari and Vayu to the world.

He blessed him and asked him to prepare for his Jiva Samadhi ceremony.

Appanacharya reluctantly agreed and obeyed his guru’s wishes. He made all the arrangements for the ceremony with the help of other disciples.

He also composed a beautiful hymn in praise of Sri Raghavendra Swamy called “Raghavendra Stotra”.

He planned to recite it in front of Sri Raghavendra Swamy before he entered into Jiva Samadhi.

The day of Jiva Samadhi arrived. Thousands of devotees gathered at Mantralayam to witness the historic event.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy sat inside the Brindavan, which was decorated with flowers and lamps.

He looked radiant and peaceful. He smiled at Appanacharya and asked him to recite his hymn.

Appanacharya stood outside the Brindavan with tears in his eyes. He held a coconut in his hand, which he wanted to offer to Sri Raghavendra Swamy as a mark of respect.

He started reciting his hymn with a trembling voice. He praised Sri Raghavendra Swamy for his knowledge, devotion, compassion, miracles, etc.

He also expressed his gratitude, love, admiration, sorrow, etc. for him.

He reached the last verse of his hymn, which said:

“Poornabodha Guruteertha Karunamruta Varshine Hare Venkata Ramana Narahari Manohare Sakala Graha Bala Neene Sarvajna Drushtidaayine Sri Raghavendra Guruve Namaha”

The meaning is:

“O Guru Raghavendra, the ocean of mercy, who is the disciple of Poornabodha Teertha O Lord Hari, the consort of Venkata Lakshmi, the enchanting Narahari You are the strength of all the planets, you are the omniscient, you are the bestower of vision I bow down to you, O Guru Raghavendra”

As soon as he uttered these words, the coconut in his hand burst open and water spilled out.

He was shocked and amazed by this miracle. He realized that it was a sign of Sri Raghavendra Swamy’s acceptance and approval of his hymn.

He also realized that it was a sign of Sri Raghavendra Swamy’s departure from his body.

He cried out loud and ran towards the Brindavan to see his guru for the last time.

But before he could reach there, the disciples closed the Brindavan with stones and sealed it with mud.

They did not want anyone to disturb Sri Raghavendra Swamy in his Jiva Samadhi.

Appanacharya was heartbroken and collapsed on the ground. He felt as if he had lost everything in his life.

He lamented and wailed for his guru.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy heard his cry from inside the Brindavan. He felt sorry for his disciple and wanted to console him.

He spoke to him in a soft voice and said:

“Appanacharya, do not grieve for me. I am always with you in spirit. You have done a great service to me and the mutt. You have composed a wonderful hymn in my praise. I am very pleased with you. Your hymn will be chanted by millions of devotees for generations to come. It will bestow them with peace, prosperity, health, happiness, and salvation. You are blessed by Lord Hari and Vayu. You have nothing to worry about. Be happy and continue your service to the mutt and the devotees. I bless you with all my heart.”

Appanacharya heard his guru’s voice and felt a surge of joy and bliss in his heart. He thanked him for his kindness and grace.

He also apologized for his attachment and sorrow.

He said that he would follow his guru’s instructions and serve him till his last breath.

He said that he would always remember him and chant his name.

He said that he loved him more than anything else in the world.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy smiled and said:

“I love you too, Appanacharya. You are my dearest disciple and friend. You are like my own soul. We are inseparable. We will meet again in Vaikuntha (the abode of Lord Vishnu). Till then, be happy and spread happiness. May Lord Hari and Vayu bless you always.”

Saying this, Sri Raghavendra Swamy became silent and entered into Jiva Samadhi.

Appanacharya felt a wave of peace and calmness in his mind. He bowed down to the Brindavan and prayed to Sri Raghavendra Swamy.

He then got up and joined the other disciples in singing bhajans (devotional songs) in praise of Sri Raghavendra Swamy.

He also distributed the coconut water to everyone as prasadam (sacred food).

He then dedicated his life to the service of Sri Raghavendra Swamy’s mutt and devotees.

Moral story of Sri Raghavendra swamiji and the Nawab dream

Sri Raghavendra Swamy was a great scholar and teacher of the Vedas and other scriptures. He was also a master of astrology and palmistry. He had many disciples and followers who revered him for his wisdom and devotion. He was also known for his miraculous powers and healing abilities.

One day, a Muslim ruler named Nawab Siddi Masud Khan visited Adoni, a town near Mantralayam. He was a cruel and arrogant man who oppressed his subjects and persecuted the Hindus. He heard about Sri Raghavendra Swamy and his fame and decided to test him.

He sent a messenger to invite Sri Raghavendra Swamy to his palace for a debate on religion. He also threatened to harm him if he refused to come.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy agreed to go to the palace, but he said that he would not debate with the Nawab, as he respected all religions and did not want to hurt anyone's sentiments. He said that he would only answer his questions and clear his doubts.

The Nawab was not satisfied with this answer and planned to humiliate and torture Sri Raghavendra Swamy in front of his courtiers.

He prepared a throne made of iron and covered it with silk cloth. He also installed a mechanism that would heat up the throne when a lever was pulled.

He then arranged for Sri Raghavendra Swamy to be seated on the throne, while he himself sat on another throne opposite him.

He welcomed Sri Raghavendra Swamy with false courtesy and asked him to sit on the throne. He then secretly pulled the lever and waited for Sri Raghavendra Swamy to scream in pain.

But to his surprise, nothing happened. Sri Raghavendra Swamy sat calmly on the throne, unaffected by the heat. He smiled at the Nawab and said that he was comfortable.

The Nawab was shocked and angry. He thought that there was some defect in the mechanism and ordered his men to check it.

They found that the mechanism was working perfectly and that the throne was red hot. They could not understand how Sri Raghavendra Swamy could sit on it without any discomfort.

The Nawab then realized that Sri Raghavendra Swamy was not an ordinary person, but a divine being with supernatural powers. He felt ashamed and afraid of his evil deed.

He fell at the feet of Sri Raghavendra Swamy and begged for his forgiveness. He said that he had seen the miracle of Lord Hari and Vayu, who had protected their devotee from harm.

He also confessed that he had seen a strange dream the previous night, in which he saw Sri Raghavendra Swamy sitting on a lotus flower in a lake, surrounded by five-faced Hanuman (Panchamukhi Anjaneya), Garuda (the eagle mount of Lord Vishnu), Sesha (the serpent bed of Lord Vishnu), Narasimha (the lion-man avatar of Lord Vishnu) and Sudarshana (the discus weapon of Lord Vishnu).

He said that these divine beings had warned him not to harm Sri Raghavendra Swamy, as he was their beloved servant and representative.

He said that he had ignored their warning and acted foolishly out of pride and ignorance.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy lifted him up and embraced him. He said that he was happy that the Nawab had realized his mistake and had changed his heart.

He said that the Nawab was a good person at heart, but he had been misled by his ego and greed. He said that the Nawab should always remember the grace and power of Lord and serve them with devotion and humility.

He also said that the Nawab should be kind and just to his subjects and respect all religions and faiths.

The Nawab thanked Sri Raghavendra Swamy for his kindness and wisdom. He said that he would dedicate his life to the service of God and humanity.

He also said that he would donate a large piece of land near Mantralayam to Sri Raghavendra Swamy for building a mutt (monastery) for him and his disciples.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy blessed him and his courtiers. He also gave them some prasadam (sacred food) from his mutt.

He then bid farewell to the Nawab and left for Mantralayam, where he established his mutt and continued his spiritual activities.

The moral of the above story is that we should not test or harm the saints and sages who are the messengers of God. We should also not be arrogant or cruel to others, as we may face the consequences of our actions. We should seek the guidance and blessings of the saints and sages who can show us the path of devotion and wisdom

Moral Story of Sri Raghavendra Swamiji and the mango tree

Sri Raghavendra Swamy was an ardent devotee of Sri Panchamukha Mukhya Prana Devaru (the five-faced form of Lord Hanuman). He spent a major portion of his life teaching Sanskrit and other Vedic texts to children. He never took money for his services and lived a life of poverty along with his wife and son. ⁴

One day, a rich landlord named Venkanna visited Mantralayam and met Sri Raghavendra Swamy. He was impressed by his knowledge and devotion and offered him a large donation. Sri Raghavendra Swamy politely refused and said that he only needed the blessings of Lord Hari and Vayu. Venkanna insisted and said that he wanted to do some service to the saint and his disciples.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy then asked him to plant a mango tree in front of his mutt (monastery) and water it regularly. Venkanna agreed and planted a sapling. He also arranged for a water tank and a gardener to take care of the tree.

The tree grew well and soon bore fruits. Venkanna was very happy and proud of his service. He decided to offer the first fruits to Sri Raghavendra Swamy as a mark of respect. He plucked some ripe mangoes and brought them to the mutt.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy thanked him for his generosity and asked him to distribute the fruits among the poor and needy people in the town. Venkanna was surprised and said that he had brought the fruits only for the saint and his disciples. He said that he had spent a lot of money and effort to grow the tree and he deserved some reward for his service.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy smiled and said that he did not need any reward from anyone except Lord Hari and Vayu. He said that Venkanna had done a good deed by planting the tree, but he had also developed pride and attachment to it. He said that Venkanna should learn to be humble and detached from worldly things.

Venkanna was offended by these words and thought that Sri Raghavendra Swamy was ungrateful and rude. He said that he would not give away the fruits to anyone else and he would take them back to his home. He also said that he would stop watering the tree and let it die.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy calmly said that Venkanna was free to do whatever he wanted with his fruits, but he should not harm the tree, as it was a living being created by God. He said that even if Venkanna stopped watering the tree, it would not die, as it was protected by Lord Hari and Vayu.

Venkanna laughed at this statement and challenged Sri Raghavendra Swamy to prove his words. He said that he would come back after a month and see if the tree was still alive without water.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy accepted the challenge and said that Venkanna would see the miracle of Lord Hari and Vayu in due course.

Venkanna left with his fruits, feeling angry and arrogant. He ordered his gardener to stop watering the tree and left for his home.

A month passed by, and Venkanna returned to Mantralayam with some friends. He wanted to show them how Sri Raghavendra Swamy had failed in his prediction and how his tree had withered away.

He reached the mutt and was shocked to see what he saw. The tree was not only alive, but it was also full of green leaves and flowers. It looked more beautiful than ever before.

Venkanna could not believe his eyes. He asked his gardener how this was possible. The gardener told him that he had followed his orders and had not watered the tree at all. He said that every morning, a strange phenomenon occurred near the tree.

He said that a bright light would appear from the sky and shine on the tree for some time. Then, a gentle breeze would blow from the direction of the mutt and sprinkle water on the tree like raindrops. The gardener said that this happened every day without fail, and he had witnessed it himself.

Venkanna was stunned and speechless. He realized that he had made a big mistake by doubting and insulting Sri Raghavendra Swamy. He felt ashamed and repentant for his behavior.

He ran to the mutt and fell at the feet of Sri Raghavendra Swamy. He begged for his forgiveness and said that he had seen the miracle of Lord Hari and Vayu. He said that he had learned his lesson and he would never be proud or attached to anything again.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy lifted him up and embraced him. He said that he was happy that Venkanna had realized his folly and had changed his heart. He said that Venkanna was a good person at heart, but he had been misled by his ego and greed. He said that Venkanna should always remember the grace of Lord Hari and Vayu and serve them with devotion and humility.

Venkanna thanked Sri Raghavendra Swamy for his kindness and wisdom. He said that he would dedicate his life to the service of God and humanity. He also said that he would donate the fruits of the tree to the poor and needy people in the town, as per the wish of Sri Raghavendra Swamy.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy blessed him and his friends. He also gave them some prasadam (sacred food) from the tree. He said that the tree was a symbol of the love and power of Lord Hari and Vayu, and anyone who ate its fruits would be blessed with health, wealth, happiness, and peace.

Venkanna and his friends felt a surge of joy and bliss in their hearts. They ate the prasadam with gratitude and reverence. They also distributed some fruits to the people around them.

They then bid farewell to Sri Raghavendra Swamy and left for their homes, feeling transformed by the miracle of the mango tree.

The moral of the above story is that we should always be humble and detached from worldly things. We should not be proud or greedy for our achievements or possessions. We should remember that everything we have is a gift from God and we should use it for the welfare of others. We should also respect and honor the saints and sages who guide us on the path of devotion and wisdom.