Soon news comes that Saraswati is matured. So V and Saraswati spend their first night together. ST gives opinion to Gururaja to allow V to take care of a vidyapeeta after Gururaja himself declares unfit for such a role but Gururaja tells ST that V too is unfit although V agrees. ST indicates that family issues might arise due to family now being big but Gururaja does not think so.
One day Gururaja asks V to take care of a field work. But seeing 2 disciples running away from Vidya peeta, V is way laid and in turn starts helping them out with their studies. Gururaja comes to the field and does not see V anywhere. He is extremely angered and scolds V at end of day in front of all family members. Gururaja’s wife is not happy about Gururaja’s anger.
V’s wife is sad about the humiliation. She suggests staying apart. V tells her about ST’s offer of staying in Kaveripatnam. V’s wife likes the idea. Eavesdropping this, V’s mom tells Gururaja about dissecting the family into two homes. Gururaja is shocked but is unable to convince. So, V, his wife and his mom move to Kaveripatnam.
In Kaveripatnam, the current residents still remember Kanakachala Bhatt and his son Thimmanna Bhat who is V’s father. They speak highly of the two. Nostalgia makes V and his mom sad. They are given a place of shelter – same as the place where Kanakachala Bhat stayed. V and his wife clean the house and make themselves home.
Due to V’s policy of not taking any gifts from others, he is soon bereft of money and food and hunger strikes the family. V is unable to make enough from Vidya Peeta. Seeing this, Gururaja sends stuff. V rejects. V’s rich in-laws send stuff. V rejects. The in-laws complain to V’s brother-in-law and sister who visit V to convince him that accepting stuff is not wrong esp when a family of wife and mother is dependent on him. After hours of debate, V is finally convinced that what he is doing is wrong and hence accepts the stuff from his brother. After a long duration, V’s wife and mom have a nice dinner.
Dec 19, 2010
Venkatanaatha excels in Studies
One Achyutha is not happy about the progress V is making in terms of education and knowledge. He is jealous. When ST asks some tough questions, A is unable to answer but V answers. So one day when V is studying hard at night in creating some scriptures, A visits V slyly and the moment V sleeps, steals the scriptures. He catches V off guard the next day about the scriptures. But Naani who had witnessed the whole incident slyly comes to V’s rescue and gives V the scriptures which V had created. This makes A twitch in anger.
Another day when a complicated topic is taught by Surendra Theertha Swamy, V notices that none in the class has understood. When after class he informs all to teach the same, no one responds enthusiastically and all go to sleep. However, V continues to study till wee hours of night outside under a bonfire. Seeing this, ST realizes that V is none other than his Master’s Master re-birth. So, he places his own shawl on V to save him from cold.
Next day when A sees this, he thinks V has stolen ST’s shawl and complains accordingly. But ST informs him the truth and tells all the V was working on writing a summary for Jaya Theertha’s Sudha Paata which is supposed to be extremely tough in understanding. Apparently V’s Summary is very easy to understand and seeing this, Vijayandra Theertha Swamy confer on V the name of ‘Parimala’ and also name V’s book as ‘Parimala Sudha’. VT is very happy with V.
Another day when a complicated topic is taught by Surendra Theertha Swamy, V notices that none in the class has understood. When after class he informs all to teach the same, no one responds enthusiastically and all go to sleep. However, V continues to study till wee hours of night outside under a bonfire. Seeing this, ST realizes that V is none other than his Master’s Master re-birth. So, he places his own shawl on V to save him from cold.
Next day when A sees this, he thinks V has stolen ST’s shawl and complains accordingly. But ST informs him the truth and tells all the V was working on writing a summary for Jaya Theertha’s Sudha Paata which is supposed to be extremely tough in understanding. Apparently V’s Summary is very easy to understand and seeing this, Vijayandra Theertha Swamy confer on V the name of ‘Parimala’ and also name V’s book as ‘Parimala Sudha’. VT is very happy with V.
Venkatanaatha Marries
Needless to say, Venkatanaatha wins the battle. It is a high strung battle of wisdom and knowledge. The debate goes on for hours but ultimately Venkatanaatha wins. The King of Madurai is much honored to have him in his city and honours him and asks him to sing a song for him. Venkatanaatha obliges.
Meanwhile, there is much talk of V’s wedding. V keeps saying no but his family keeps insisting him. Then one day, Surendra Theertha Swamy comes in V’s dream and asks him why he is saying no to wedding. To this, V says that V knows he is destined to become a Swami one day, renouncing life- so why to waste a girl’s life. To this, S says that it is but fate for the young lady to let go of her husband and it is also destined for V to marry in this life and overcome the lust of marriage. V once more pleads that it is not right for him to marry a girl despite knowing his future but S says that V is becoming self centric and egoistic to solve all of world’s problems. This shames V. He suddenly wakes up to feel a change in him. As a surprise to all, he agrees to see the girl. Very soon, his marriage takes place but since the girl Saraswati is a minor, she is asked to stay in her mom’s place and V is asked to learn higher Vedic concepts under the tutelage of Surendra Theertha Swamy.
Meanwhile, there is much talk of V’s wedding. V keeps saying no but his family keeps insisting him. Then one day, Surendra Theertha Swamy comes in V’s dream and asks him why he is saying no to wedding. To this, V says that V knows he is destined to become a Swami one day, renouncing life- so why to waste a girl’s life. To this, S says that it is but fate for the young lady to let go of her husband and it is also destined for V to marry in this life and overcome the lust of marriage. V once more pleads that it is not right for him to marry a girl despite knowing his future but S says that V is becoming self centric and egoistic to solve all of world’s problems. This shames V. He suddenly wakes up to feel a change in him. As a surprise to all, he agrees to see the girl. Very soon, his marriage takes place but since the girl Saraswati is a minor, she is asked to stay in her mom’s place and V is asked to learn higher Vedic concepts under the tutelage of Surendra Theertha Swamy.
Nov 7, 2010
Prep for Adwaitha Vs Dwaitha Battle
Kumbakonam Pontiffs Sudheendra Theertha (ST) and Vijayendra Theertha (VT) come to Madurai. ST informs V’s BIL that they heard about V’s antics with the King. BIL is guilty about not informing the episode himself to the Pontiffs but ST informs that BIL need not be guilty. Sometimes the news spread faster than fire. Anyways. ST informs that for Truth, there will always be tests and this was one such test. He asks V to study even further and become as much educated as possible. VT then sees V and blesses him good luck. VT too asks him some basic questions like ‘Who is sanyaasi?’ etc which V answers proficiently. VT asks some questions from his own book too to test V’s understanding of Madhwacharya’s Dwaita philosophy.
Meanwhile, ST tells V’s BIL that a major test for V is on the cards. Although the King was satisfied with V’s ability, some in the Court’s members, who are deemed Knowledge experts want a competition with one of the famed Knowledge Gurus of South India. This person is known never to have lost any debate with anyone and is a staunch follower of Adwaitha philosophy. So, for the battle of Adwaitha Vs Dwaitha where the Learned battle out against the Disciple, the stage is set.
Meanwhile, ST tells V’s BIL that a major test for V is on the cards. Although the King was satisfied with V’s ability, some in the Court’s members, who are deemed Knowledge experts want a competition with one of the famed Knowledge Gurus of South India. This person is known never to have lost any debate with anyone and is a staunch follower of Adwaitha philosophy. So, for the battle of Adwaitha Vs Dwaitha where the Learned battle out against the Disciple, the stage is set.
Venkatanaatha Versus Krishnappa Nayak
Back in Madurai, V is playing his veena in divine mood in Kali temple when Madurai King Krishnappa Nayaka suddenly enters the temple. Listening to the divine rendition, he immediately asks his chieftain to ask V to play the veena in the Queen’s palace. V humbly refuses. He informs that he is still a disciple and his rendition is only for the Goddess and not for Kings and Queens. This infuriates the King and his chieftain. They come to know that his BIL is the guru and BIL is called for at the King’s Palace.
Much debate ensues about V rejecting to play Veena in the Palace. Many think he should have because the King is considered as the God and one should not refuse the God. Many feel King’s fury has no end and it is better to perform as ordered rather than die. But V is a class apart and he does what is right. So when V’s BIL ventures to the King’s palace, V too accompanies.
In the palace, V’s BIL apologises for V’s behavior but V says that there is nothing to be sorry about. He insists that his rendition is only for Goddess Saraswati and is not meant for public entertainment even if the public is the King himself. This impresses the king and he asks V a lot of questions about Dharma, Truth, King, Arishadvarga, etc for which V answers magnificently and the King is very much impressed. Finally the king understands that he was being selfish and V’s actions were indeed correct. So he respects V and lets him go. Everyone at home is relieved and happy about V.
Much debate ensues about V rejecting to play Veena in the Palace. Many think he should have because the King is considered as the God and one should not refuse the God. Many feel King’s fury has no end and it is better to perform as ordered rather than die. But V is a class apart and he does what is right. So when V’s BIL ventures to the King’s palace, V too accompanies.
In the palace, V’s BIL apologises for V’s behavior but V says that there is nothing to be sorry about. He insists that his rendition is only for Goddess Saraswati and is not meant for public entertainment even if the public is the King himself. This impresses the king and he asks V a lot of questions about Dharma, Truth, King, Arishadvarga, etc for which V answers magnificently and the King is very much impressed. Finally the king understands that he was being selfish and V’s actions were indeed correct. So he respects V and lets him go. Everyone at home is relieved and happy about V.
Venkatanaatha refuses marriage
Back home, story of S being tied with V makes waves and immediately V’s mom asks Gururaja to initiate V’s wedding plans. So G goes to Kumbakonam and talks to Pontiff Sudheendra Theertha who tells him about Vasudevacharya’s daughter whose name is also coincidentally Saraswati. But G worries that Vasudevacharya is a rich person and it might not be a best fit. When news comes to V, he flatly refuses marriage.
The story of the Dharmaadhaakari
In Madurai, people are very happy to see V due to his radiance and knowledge. He is answerable to all knowledge questions. In one such instance, there is a talk of the temple’s Dharmaadhaakari being on death bed. People try to get astrologers to check if his life span can be increased but V says that his life has neared its end. But nobody will listen to him. Even astrologer informs that his stars are not in the right position.
There is a push by his (Dharmaadhaakari) near ones to obtain that Dharmaadhaakari post (and wealth) but he is unwilling to give away the post. So his near ones want to get him married to a girl from poor family so that the near ones can control the bride’s life and Dharmaadhaakari’s money. V is totally against this. But the Chief Astrologer informs vaguely that in case the Dharmaadhaakari (D) gets married to this poor girl, his life span might increase. V is angered at this because he knows that that is not true. But no one pays heed to him. D’s brother-in-law and sister and their son is desperate to get the wealth and the one way of doing this is by controlling the poor girl after she becomes a widow.
In spite of V’s valiant efforts, the marriage happens. For V’s ‘butting-his-nose’ attitude, V’s brother-in-law (BIL) gets a mouthful from D’s BIL. So V’s BIL tells V to mind his own business and not poke his nose into other family matters. But V is concerned about the poor girl (Saraswati (S))’s life and especially her life as a widow. So V even comes to the wedding hall but is obstructed and sent out forcefully.
Soon after marriage, D gets to death bed. S is very sad and is trying all in her power to get D back on life but is failing. D’s BIL spreads word around that S is a very dedicated wife and is a very obedient and traditional wife.The idea is that once D dies, they want to convince the world that S, on her own, chooses to do Sati (entering husband’s pyre alive to attain moksha). Finally D dies. As planned, word is spread around that S will enter pyre. S herself is shocked but she is then brainwashed about the difficulties of leading a widowed life and hence she too thinks she was destined for Sati and hence agrees, as if in a trance.
Once she enters the pyre, V enters the scene and appeals to the audience to stop this nonsense which is amounting to murder. He bares all facts and asks if any of the womenfolk present also get into Sati. No one agrees. No man wants it too. Then V informs that S’s entering pyre is all part of master plan from D’s BIL to get the wealth. Then people realize the truth. The Chief Astrologer too comes and tells that when he saw S’s kundali (birth-chart), he found that her first husband will die and in her second marriage, she will attain bliss. Noticing that D was anyhow going to die, he informed all that this was an ideal marriage for both D and S. Now that D was dead, S should be set free to seek her happiness. D’s BIL and family are fuming to see their plan go kaput but sensing that the people around were all against them, they finally succumb and S comes out of her trance.
But although she does not die, she cannot enter hubby’s house because she had decided to do Sati, she cannot go back to parents’ house because she is married. People around ask V to marry her but V is shocked. He says that his role was just to save her life and not that of a hubby. So he asks her to just go away and seek shelter where she finds it best and she leaves the town. Thus ends the story of Dharmadhaakari. It is not clear who finally got Dharmadhaakari’s wealth!
There is a push by his (Dharmaadhaakari) near ones to obtain that Dharmaadhaakari post (and wealth) but he is unwilling to give away the post. So his near ones want to get him married to a girl from poor family so that the near ones can control the bride’s life and Dharmaadhaakari’s money. V is totally against this. But the Chief Astrologer informs vaguely that in case the Dharmaadhaakari (D) gets married to this poor girl, his life span might increase. V is angered at this because he knows that that is not true. But no one pays heed to him. D’s brother-in-law and sister and their son is desperate to get the wealth and the one way of doing this is by controlling the poor girl after she becomes a widow.
In spite of V’s valiant efforts, the marriage happens. For V’s ‘butting-his-nose’ attitude, V’s brother-in-law (BIL) gets a mouthful from D’s BIL. So V’s BIL tells V to mind his own business and not poke his nose into other family matters. But V is concerned about the poor girl (Saraswati (S))’s life and especially her life as a widow. So V even comes to the wedding hall but is obstructed and sent out forcefully.
Soon after marriage, D gets to death bed. S is very sad and is trying all in her power to get D back on life but is failing. D’s BIL spreads word around that S is a very dedicated wife and is a very obedient and traditional wife.The idea is that once D dies, they want to convince the world that S, on her own, chooses to do Sati (entering husband’s pyre alive to attain moksha). Finally D dies. As planned, word is spread around that S will enter pyre. S herself is shocked but she is then brainwashed about the difficulties of leading a widowed life and hence she too thinks she was destined for Sati and hence agrees, as if in a trance.
Once she enters the pyre, V enters the scene and appeals to the audience to stop this nonsense which is amounting to murder. He bares all facts and asks if any of the womenfolk present also get into Sati. No one agrees. No man wants it too. Then V informs that S’s entering pyre is all part of master plan from D’s BIL to get the wealth. Then people realize the truth. The Chief Astrologer too comes and tells that when he saw S’s kundali (birth-chart), he found that her first husband will die and in her second marriage, she will attain bliss. Noticing that D was anyhow going to die, he informed all that this was an ideal marriage for both D and S. Now that D was dead, S should be set free to seek her happiness. D’s BIL and family are fuming to see their plan go kaput but sensing that the people around were all against them, they finally succumb and S comes out of her trance.
But although she does not die, she cannot enter hubby’s house because she had decided to do Sati, she cannot go back to parents’ house because she is married. People around ask V to marry her but V is shocked. He says that his role was just to save her life and not that of a hubby. So he asks her to just go away and seek shelter where she finds it best and she leaves the town. Thus ends the story of Dharmadhaakari. It is not clear who finally got Dharmadhaakari’s wealth!
Venkatanaatha becomes an adult
Meanwhile, Venkataamba is pregnant, just as V had told. BIL and sis are happy and thank V for his prediction. News reaches Gopikamba and she is very happy.
Life goes on and V becomes an adult. Gururaja completes his studies and is on par with his dead father in terms of education. So he takes leave from the pontiff and heads back to his house. Gururaja too becomes a father.
Life goes on and V becomes an adult. Gururaja completes his studies and is on par with his dead father in terms of education. So he takes leave from the pontiff and heads back to his house. Gururaja too becomes a father.
Venkatanaatha vouches for Lower Caste again
Meanwhile, V’s studies go on smoothly. Once, when he is in temple, a lower caste person calls for the priest to assist his ailing cow. Since priest was not present, V gives him Theertha (sacred water), flower, etc although the person refuses. Still V insists. The priest suddenly enters the premises and sees V giving him Theertha and scolds him. But V informs him that in front of God, all Men are equal and there are no distinctions. The priest refuses to understand. He proceeds to complain against him. But V knows that what he did was right and that the Scriptures does not differentiate amongst different Men and hence he is confident that he is right and if he is punished by mortal Men, he shall be left unscathed because of God’s love.
At home, his brother-in-law (BIL) scolds him a lot for getting astray. He teaches him that although God created Fire and Water, it doesn’t imply that Fire and Water is same. Although sugar and bitter guard is created by God, it doesn’t imply that both are same. So each have to be distinguished. Similarly, lower caste and Brahmins are to be divided. But V says that both fire and water have their own uniqueness. Pooja is done to fire and Man cannot live without water. Sugar is used in sweets and bitter guard is used as medicines. So, there is value for everyone. To this, BIL says that since Lower caste people do not keep themselves clean, they are untouchables. To this, V says that lower caste are unclean because of their nature of work. And they are working to give food to Brahmins. If they are unclean, it is the duty of every Brahmin to teach them the best way to lead life. BIL gets angry and asks him to do as he says and follow what he orders as long as he stays in his house.
Narayanachar (Naani) visits Vijayendra Theertha and Sudheendra Theertha. The pontiffs ask what made Naani visit them. Naani tells them that V is asking for lower caste people to attend Temples, etc. Is it fair? Naani is scared about V. The pontiffs say that all will be well. Vijayendra Theertha says that V has seen future light and V has power to lead this light in future. Sri Hari is filled in V and V will be safe. Naani’s concern vanishes.
At home, his brother-in-law (BIL) scolds him a lot for getting astray. He teaches him that although God created Fire and Water, it doesn’t imply that Fire and Water is same. Although sugar and bitter guard is created by God, it doesn’t imply that both are same. So each have to be distinguished. Similarly, lower caste and Brahmins are to be divided. But V says that both fire and water have their own uniqueness. Pooja is done to fire and Man cannot live without water. Sugar is used in sweets and bitter guard is used as medicines. So, there is value for everyone. To this, BIL says that since Lower caste people do not keep themselves clean, they are untouchables. To this, V says that lower caste are unclean because of their nature of work. And they are working to give food to Brahmins. If they are unclean, it is the duty of every Brahmin to teach them the best way to lead life. BIL gets angry and asks him to do as he says and follow what he orders as long as he stays in his house.
Narayanachar (Naani) visits Vijayendra Theertha and Sudheendra Theertha. The pontiffs ask what made Naani visit them. Naani tells them that V is asking for lower caste people to attend Temples, etc. Is it fair? Naani is scared about V. The pontiffs say that all will be well. Vijayendra Theertha says that V has seen future light and V has power to lead this light in future. Sri Hari is filled in V and V will be safe. Naani’s concern vanishes.
Venkataamba wants a child
V’s sis’s (Venkataamba) has not given birth to any child even after years of marriage. So when one neighbour comes and calls her for a newborn’s ceremony, another neighbour scolds her for inviting Venkataamba because if Venkataamba is barren, then the child may suffer diseases similar to the child which suffered diseases since 1 year as a result of Venkataamba touching and caressing that child during it’s new born ceremony. Hearing this gossip, Venkataamba and V are much depressed.
When Venkataamba is crying about this, her husband tries to console her and tells her that since her mother took 10 years to bear children, perhaps she too might take 10 years to bear children. To this, Venkataamba says that just like her mother, she might have to go to Tirumala to seek Lord Venkateshwara’s blessings. Hearing this, V tells her not to trouble herself as she is pregnant and she will soon give birth to a child. His brother-in-law is shocked but his sister is very happy to hear this as she trusts V’s sixth sense.
When Venkataamba is crying about this, her husband tries to console her and tells her that since her mother took 10 years to bear children, perhaps she too might take 10 years to bear children. To this, Venkataamba says that just like her mother, she might have to go to Tirumala to seek Lord Venkateshwara’s blessings. Hearing this, V tells her not to trouble herself as she is pregnant and she will soon give birth to a child. His brother-in-law is shocked but his sister is very happy to hear this as she trusts V’s sixth sense.
Oct 4, 2010
Upanayanam for Venkatanaatha
In Madurai, V sits in front of Kali temple and prays to Her to allow him to talk to his father TB. After much begging, Goddess Kali delivers TB to V. TB speaks to V and informs him not to ask for him as he is on his way to Heaven and it is not right to bring back the dead. He also tells V to study properly and achieve stardom. Finally V lets go of him.
Meanwhile, Gururaja is told by Sudheendra Theertha pontiff to perform Upanayanam to V in order to bring some cheer to Family. Since its been more than a year since TB died, its fine to do Upanayanam to V. Everyone in the family is happy about this decision.
Upanayanam goes fine. V asks some questions about Upanayanam like Gopichandan, Mudras, etc which his broter-in-law (Lakshmi Narasimhachar) answers. V is happy to perform the Upanayanam.
After Upanayanam is complete, V does not want to go back to Madurai because he does not want to leave his mother. However, his mom insists him that he should go to Madurai, complete his studies and once he achieves stardom, her responsibilities come to closure and she can attain the life of her husband’s. With great difficulty, he leaves Ramachandrapura and his mom and goes to Madurai, where he now learns to do pooja full-fledged.
Meanwhile, Gururaja is told by Sudheendra Theertha pontiff to perform Upanayanam to V in order to bring some cheer to Family. Since its been more than a year since TB died, its fine to do Upanayanam to V. Everyone in the family is happy about this decision.
Upanayanam goes fine. V asks some questions about Upanayanam like Gopichandan, Mudras, etc which his broter-in-law (Lakshmi Narasimhachar) answers. V is happy to perform the Upanayanam.
After Upanayanam is complete, V does not want to go back to Madurai because he does not want to leave his mother. However, his mom insists him that he should go to Madurai, complete his studies and once he achieves stardom, her responsibilities come to closure and she can attain the life of her husband’s. With great difficulty, he leaves Ramachandrapura and his mom and goes to Madurai, where he now learns to do pooja full-fledged.
Sep 30, 2010
Venkatanaatha goes to Madurai
Soon, relatives who had gathered in TB’s house start leaving. Naani too leaves. V is much sad that Naani had to leave. He tries hard to stop him but Naani says that him being a bachelor, he should not be in that house which is yet to see a number of happy celebrations. Finally Naani too bids adieu.
V and Gopikamba both dream about TB. While latter dreams about TB taking away V, V dreams about TB informing him to study hard and excel in life. Days pass with both Gopika and V remembering life with TB.
Finally, noticing that V needs a change of place, V’s sister offers to take him to his house in Madurai. But at Madurai too, V is desolate and sad. So, one day V’s sister’s husband offers to take V to Vidyapeeta so that V can spend some time with children of his age. In vidyapeeta, there are lot of educated people discussing about Literature and Scriptures. V asks some spiritual questions like ‘What is Dharma?’ etc and is interested in the wide variety of response.
Meanwhile, Gopika is too sad herself. She is once alone in the house and she feels too lonely. So she shouts at TB’s soul to take her away too so that she can be once again be united with him. Hearing her shout, Gururaja and his wife come and console her.
V is now keeping himself busy. He visits temples and asks priests theosophical questions. He once asks why Durga is called so. The priest responds thus:
Once upon a time there was a demon called Durgama. Durgama tries to understand why demons don’t have power whereas the Demi-gods (devatas) had. He realizes that it is due to Vedas. Since demi-gods have Vedas, they are powerful than Demons. So, Durgama does penance for years together and finally Brahma is forced to fulfill Durgama’s wishes. Durgama asks for Vedas which Brahma is forced to give. After doing so, world comes to a standstill as the demi-gods lose their power. Rivers run dry, scorching heat everywhere, famine, etc. When demi-gods pray for Goddess Lakshmi, she saves the world. She approaches Durgama and unleashes all her Anger Power and kills Durgama. Hence she is called Durga devi. Also, since she gives (shakahaari) vegetarian food to saints before the death of Durgama, she was also called Shaakambari (story needs to be validated).
Meanwhile, messengers are sent from Vijayandra Theertha Swamy to Gopikamba to ask Gururaja to visit their shrine soon.
V and Gopikamba both dream about TB. While latter dreams about TB taking away V, V dreams about TB informing him to study hard and excel in life. Days pass with both Gopika and V remembering life with TB.
Finally, noticing that V needs a change of place, V’s sister offers to take him to his house in Madurai. But at Madurai too, V is desolate and sad. So, one day V’s sister’s husband offers to take V to Vidyapeeta so that V can spend some time with children of his age. In vidyapeeta, there are lot of educated people discussing about Literature and Scriptures. V asks some spiritual questions like ‘What is Dharma?’ etc and is interested in the wide variety of response.
Meanwhile, Gopika is too sad herself. She is once alone in the house and she feels too lonely. So she shouts at TB’s soul to take her away too so that she can be once again be united with him. Hearing her shout, Gururaja and his wife come and console her.
V is now keeping himself busy. He visits temples and asks priests theosophical questions. He once asks why Durga is called so. The priest responds thus:
Once upon a time there was a demon called Durgama. Durgama tries to understand why demons don’t have power whereas the Demi-gods (devatas) had. He realizes that it is due to Vedas. Since demi-gods have Vedas, they are powerful than Demons. So, Durgama does penance for years together and finally Brahma is forced to fulfill Durgama’s wishes. Durgama asks for Vedas which Brahma is forced to give. After doing so, world comes to a standstill as the demi-gods lose their power. Rivers run dry, scorching heat everywhere, famine, etc. When demi-gods pray for Goddess Lakshmi, she saves the world. She approaches Durgama and unleashes all her Anger Power and kills Durgama. Hence she is called Durga devi. Also, since she gives (shakahaari) vegetarian food to saints before the death of Durgama, she was also called Shaakambari (story needs to be validated).
Meanwhile, messengers are sent from Vijayandra Theertha Swamy to Gopikamba to ask Gururaja to visit their shrine soon.
Sep 19, 2010
Venkatanaatha is inconsolable
Vijayendra Theertha and Sudheendra Theertha are talking about TB’s untimely death. Former says that this is all God’s play for what’s gonna happen soon. Former gives example of Dasharatha and Kausalya giving birth to Rama and suffering so much despite bearing Vishnu a life. Same thing is happening here. He again hints that V has a long way to go. V is answerable to lot of worldly questions.
Meeanwhile TB’s family grieves TB’s death. V is the most inconsolable of the lot. He plays veena just the same way TB played Veena when TB’s parents died. Naani sees this and cannot help comparing. When kin try to console him, he asks questions about Death, about Soul, about need for his mom to shave her head and wear a red dress. He asks if TB’s soul will be happy seeing Gopika thus. No one is able to answer V’s questions.
When he asks his brother-in-law about current status of TB, latter replies that TB’s soul will be traveling to Heaven for the next 1 year and in this 1 year, it will suffer for all the mistakes it did. Then. V asks why people have to suffer after their death for their actions if the actions were initiated by God Himself in the first place – after all, if God didn’t will it, then how can Man perform the ill-actions? So why should Man be punished if he is just a puppet? Again, no one is able to answer V’s questions.
Meeanwhile TB’s family grieves TB’s death. V is the most inconsolable of the lot. He plays veena just the same way TB played Veena when TB’s parents died. Naani sees this and cannot help comparing. When kin try to console him, he asks questions about Death, about Soul, about need for his mom to shave her head and wear a red dress. He asks if TB’s soul will be happy seeing Gopika thus. No one is able to answer V’s questions.
When he asks his brother-in-law about current status of TB, latter replies that TB’s soul will be traveling to Heaven for the next 1 year and in this 1 year, it will suffer for all the mistakes it did. Then. V asks why people have to suffer after their death for their actions if the actions were initiated by God Himself in the first place – after all, if God didn’t will it, then how can Man perform the ill-actions? So why should Man be punished if he is just a puppet? Again, no one is able to answer V’s questions.
Thimmanna Bhat Dies
Sons arrive and TB asks Gopika for privacy. Gopika leaves crying. TB advises sons to take care of themselves. He says this might be the last chance for him to speak freely lest his body fails further. He asks Gururaja to take care of V and also to become a famous pundit after undergoing studies with Sudheendra Theertha. He also informs how in near future there is going to be a massive change in the world, where atheists will become theists and miracles defy science. Gururaja says he cannot understand, but TB hints that the answer is within the room. But neither Gururaja nor V understand the significance that the answer is V. TB advises further and asks them to be truthful and lead life honestly. He says that he can see his end and both sons are crying.
At night, TB hears Vijayendra Theertha saying that he has done all he has to do in life, so he might as well move on. TB wakes up and almost bids farewell to all his dearest – the idols, the veena instrument, etc. With love, he plays the veena and prays to God. Hearing the song, all in the family come and see him. TB finishes his singing. He remembers his entire life. He rests his head on the veena and then breathes his last. In the mid of night, Vijayendra Theertha – at his resting place - realizes that TB is dead and wakes up and wishes him well. TB is cremated.
At night, TB hears Vijayendra Theertha saying that he has done all he has to do in life, so he might as well move on. TB wakes up and almost bids farewell to all his dearest – the idols, the veena instrument, etc. With love, he plays the veena and prays to God. Hearing the song, all in the family come and see him. TB finishes his singing. He remembers his entire life. He rests his head on the veena and then breathes his last. In the mid of night, Vijayendra Theertha – at his resting place - realizes that TB is dead and wakes up and wishes him well. TB is cremated.
Sep 15, 2010
Thimmanna Bhat falls ill
Then, V goes out to play veena. His friends come and ask him to join in child’s play but he refuses stating that he had to learn a lot. Kids say that it isn’t the age but V says that there is no age to learn and that the entire childhood should not be wasted in playing. So the other kids start following V.
Meanwhile, TB and Gopika arrive back home. TB is very tired. He is hardly able to speak and stand. They relate their pilgrimage in great detail to household. They inform about having been to daughter’s house and also visit to Sudheendra Theertha Brindavan in Madurai, after which they went to Rameshwaram and performed religious rites for 15 days. All are happy that TB and wife have come back safely although sons chastise TB for having lost health. But TB says it is more of a duty than a leisure activity. Saying so, he suddenly falls ill.
He is bedridden. Doc arrives and tells everyone that he is suffering from a mental disease more than a physical disease. Everyone tries to convince TB to speak his mind out instead of locking it up within himself but he still doesn’t open up. One day, he gets up and wants to talk to his sons. Gopika wishes to die as a married person than as a widow. So she is fervently hoping. So he asks him not to talk about deathly things and encourages him to live for the future when V might perhaps become a great person. For this, TB says that indeed V will become a great person and be the shining light for millions of people but he wonders if he will be alive to see it. Gopika is shocked at his words. Gopika pleads him not to speak thus.
Meanwhile, TB and Gopika arrive back home. TB is very tired. He is hardly able to speak and stand. They relate their pilgrimage in great detail to household. They inform about having been to daughter’s house and also visit to Sudheendra Theertha Brindavan in Madurai, after which they went to Rameshwaram and performed religious rites for 15 days. All are happy that TB and wife have come back safely although sons chastise TB for having lost health. But TB says it is more of a duty than a leisure activity. Saying so, he suddenly falls ill.
He is bedridden. Doc arrives and tells everyone that he is suffering from a mental disease more than a physical disease. Everyone tries to convince TB to speak his mind out instead of locking it up within himself but he still doesn’t open up. One day, he gets up and wants to talk to his sons. Gopika wishes to die as a married person than as a widow. So she is fervently hoping. So he asks him not to talk about deathly things and encourages him to live for the future when V might perhaps become a great person. For this, TB says that indeed V will become a great person and be the shining light for millions of people but he wonders if he will be alive to see it. Gopika is shocked at his words. Gopika pleads him not to speak thus.
Venkatanaatha cures Gururaja of shivering
They think G is dead initially. But when they wake him up, he wakes up and they are all happy that he is alive. But G is shivering uncontrollably due to fear. They then search for V. They find V sleeping under that same mango tree where the devils reside (now chanting Vishnu’s name). They wake V too. V is very happy and fresh after having slept in nature. They ask if he wasn’t afraid but he said no one bothered him and he had a fitful sleep. He only regrets having missed the night’s music ceremony. They then head back happy that no one is killed.
In the house, G is still shivering. K tries to remove the shiver by traditional belief but she is unsuccessful. G and his wife decide to go to a temple. But when V assists him G in getting up (when V’s hand touches G), the shiver goes off from G’s body and he is fit and fine. This surprises everybody but they think that its because of what K had done.
In the house, G is still shivering. K tries to remove the shiver by traditional belief but she is unsuccessful. G and his wife decide to go to a temple. But when V assists him G in getting up (when V’s hand touches G), the shiver goes off from G’s body and he is fit and fine. This surprises everybody but they think that its because of what K had done.
Sep 11, 2010
The story of the 3 devils
Meanwhile, in their house, Kamala (K) comes to Gururaja (G) and V. Gururaja keeps V inside the house to avoid him in making mistakes outside house. So V says if he is kept in house, truth will not be kept inside. So K asks V to be grown up after which his words will be heard and assimilated. Then, K informs about an all night song ceremony of Purandaradasa Festival in a house nearby in Chandrapura which K cannot attend because of prior commitments. So G and V proceed.
On the way, V talks about Purandaradasa in great detail. G is very devoted to Purandaradasa, he informs how P used to recite songs on Lord’s behalf and how his children wrote down due to which most songs are now documented and sung. G asks how V knows so much about Purandaradasa. This may be due to V’s prior life (Vyasaraja) but V assimilates it to having studied a book on Purandaradasa.
It is pretty late in the night. G and V encounter a fork in the road. Both go to Chandrapura but one road is less traveled. G proceeds with the commonly used road but V informs that the less traveled road is a short cut. On their way, they encounter a person who recognizes them as TB’s sons. This person informs that the correct road is via the commonly used road and not this short cut. He then goes on to say that this particular road has a mango tree upon which are 3 devils. He relates his own story about how one night he was going on this path and the 3 devils attacked him. With great difficulty, he was able to get away from the 3 devils by chanting a Shiva sloka.
Hearing this, G and V are persuaded to go back and use the longer route but V runs away before anyone can stop him. G runs behind him but V would have gained lot of distance. V finally comes to the mango tree but he doesn’t see any devils. He rests near the tree to wait till G comes but G, meanwhile, has fallen down near a skull and is his in wit’s end. He is too scared to even more. He is perspiring as if he has seen his death. With fear, he faints.
The 3 devils attack G and decide to suck his blood. At the same time, Lord Venkateshwara enter V’s soul and saves G from dying. The 3 devils try to attack V but when they touch V, they get a shock. They suffer from severe shock and they feel captured. They are unable to move. But V tries to free their souls. They inform how they have lead their lives – the Brahmin devil had took money from pilgrims; the courier devil had spied on his king; the doctor devil had looted money. So they are not sure if they can free themselves from their enormous ‘paapa’.
So V informs that they have to chant Hari’s name so that they can be freed from devilhood. He advises them that this is the time to do some good and get freed; repent what was done in their lives, and they can finally reach Heaven. Since they are not doing good and since they made lot of mistakes during manhood, they were neither in earth nor in Heaven and hence they were devils and if they continue their current lifestyle, they will continue to be devils for millions of years. This makes sense to the devils and they agree to chant Narayan’s name. Once they start chanting, they will become good and vanish into thin air.
Meanwhile, V’s soul comes back into V whose body is still sleeping under the tree.
Sun rises and the person who had warned G and V not to venture comes back on the path with some more men to search for G and V. They find G’s fainted body.
On the way, V talks about Purandaradasa in great detail. G is very devoted to Purandaradasa, he informs how P used to recite songs on Lord’s behalf and how his children wrote down due to which most songs are now documented and sung. G asks how V knows so much about Purandaradasa. This may be due to V’s prior life (Vyasaraja) but V assimilates it to having studied a book on Purandaradasa.
It is pretty late in the night. G and V encounter a fork in the road. Both go to Chandrapura but one road is less traveled. G proceeds with the commonly used road but V informs that the less traveled road is a short cut. On their way, they encounter a person who recognizes them as TB’s sons. This person informs that the correct road is via the commonly used road and not this short cut. He then goes on to say that this particular road has a mango tree upon which are 3 devils. He relates his own story about how one night he was going on this path and the 3 devils attacked him. With great difficulty, he was able to get away from the 3 devils by chanting a Shiva sloka.
Hearing this, G and V are persuaded to go back and use the longer route but V runs away before anyone can stop him. G runs behind him but V would have gained lot of distance. V finally comes to the mango tree but he doesn’t see any devils. He rests near the tree to wait till G comes but G, meanwhile, has fallen down near a skull and is his in wit’s end. He is too scared to even more. He is perspiring as if he has seen his death. With fear, he faints.
The 3 devils attack G and decide to suck his blood. At the same time, Lord Venkateshwara enter V’s soul and saves G from dying. The 3 devils try to attack V but when they touch V, they get a shock. They suffer from severe shock and they feel captured. They are unable to move. But V tries to free their souls. They inform how they have lead their lives – the Brahmin devil had took money from pilgrims; the courier devil had spied on his king; the doctor devil had looted money. So they are not sure if they can free themselves from their enormous ‘paapa’.
So V informs that they have to chant Hari’s name so that they can be freed from devilhood. He advises them that this is the time to do some good and get freed; repent what was done in their lives, and they can finally reach Heaven. Since they are not doing good and since they made lot of mistakes during manhood, they were neither in earth nor in Heaven and hence they were devils and if they continue their current lifestyle, they will continue to be devils for millions of years. This makes sense to the devils and they agree to chant Narayan’s name. Once they start chanting, they will become good and vanish into thin air.
Meanwhile, V’s soul comes back into V whose body is still sleeping under the tree.
Sun rises and the person who had warned G and V not to venture comes back on the path with some more men to search for G and V. They find G’s fainted body.
Thimmanna Bhat Hints too
Meanwhile, TB is very tired on his way to Rameshwara. TB and wife decide on resting before proceeding. They rest soon to see that there is no water. So TB proceeds to get water. He gets water. Gopika gives TB some food. TB empathises with Gopika about the pilgrimage especially because Gopika wanted to stay at home with family. But Gopika informs that she is happy with the pilgrimage.
When TB gives him food, TB asks her to take it first. He says that customs should change as per the situation. So he says that he will have one bite and then she should consume food too. She appreciates him that even though they have 3 kids, he loves her so much. Bu he informs her that she has stood by him for so many tough years and he appreciates her for that.
He then tells her about the dream he had got about his Guru asking him to teach the sacred song Gandharva Gaana to V. Once done, he felt like visiting Rameshwar. So Gopika asks how a person chanting Vishnu wants to visit Shiva. But TB hints about him feeling nearing end of his life and hence the visit. Gopika chastises him.
When TB gives him food, TB asks her to take it first. He says that customs should change as per the situation. So he says that he will have one bite and then she should consume food too. She appreciates him that even though they have 3 kids, he loves her so much. Bu he informs her that she has stood by him for so many tough years and he appreciates her for that.
He then tells her about the dream he had got about his Guru asking him to teach the sacred song Gandharva Gaana to V. Once done, he felt like visiting Rameshwar. So Gopika asks how a person chanting Vishnu wants to visit Shiva. But TB hints about him feeling nearing end of his life and hence the visit. Gopika chastises him.
Venkatanaatha saves the non-Brahmin boy
Meanwhile, V is trying to help Kamala in her food-preparation. But she insists on doing everything herself. V too insists on helping the female folk. But Gururaja comes and gives him the elderly attitude and shoves him away to playground.
In the playground to where V goes, one of the boys falls from the tree when the others are playing. The kids do not want to help him as the victim belongs to a lower caste. But V is unfazed. He goes to the kid and touches him. The other Brahmin kids are shocked. They desert V fearing being ousted from community. But V informs that being Brahmin does not mean not to help the needy. But the other Brahmin kids run away. They consider V now as outcast because he touched a lower caste person. The parents of the other kids too shun him away. V informs the parents that first we are Men, then we are Brahmin and helping needy is utmost priority. But the parents degrade him and tell that he should be punished. V informs that God is there to punish him if need be and they need not bother V. The parents then go and conspire against him.
The boy’s parents come and rescue the boy from V. V wants to come with them. But the boy’s parents do not want him to come with them because of differences in caste and creed.
The Brahmin parents (BP) come to Gururaja and complain against V’s antics in Brahmin agrahara. The BP are concerned about their own kids. They give Gururaja their own peace of mind. V meanwhile comes to the house and informs them that helping another man is not against the Vedas. V said that God didn’t create any castes. But Gururaja scolds him for talking back to elders.
But the debate goes on. BP inform that Brahmins are greatest because they came from Brahma and also the upper portion of Lord Vishnu. V informs that by neglecting one’s own legs, can one go to temple? Can one bear the prick of a thorn on the feet? So one should not degrade different parts of the body.
BP informs that Brahmins are the foremost people. So V says that the fundamental flaw in the argument is that each person will appreciate his own caste as the upper most caste. Then BP ask how is it feasible to stay in cahoots with lower caste people. V replies that if farmers didn’t exist, then how to have food. If warriors didn’t exist, how to defend country, etc. So Brahmins should co-exist with all other castes.
V informs that rice, safety and food are the only things that all Man needs. Without Vedas people can survive but without the above 3, it is not easy to survive. Seeing that BP were losing the verbal battle, they seek Gururaja’s assistance and tell him to wash V in Cow’s urine and wash his tongue using dried grass and make him pure so that agrahara will be a better place. They also mention rice in the purity process but V points out that rice was created by lower caste people.
Gururaja asks the BP to leave and tackles V. V informs that if lower and upper caste is not there, then there is issue of purity. V also asks that even if V is washed in the outer layer, what of the inner thoughts? Gururaja cannot take it anymore and orders his wife to purify V using Cow’s urine and dried grass, etc.
In the playground to where V goes, one of the boys falls from the tree when the others are playing. The kids do not want to help him as the victim belongs to a lower caste. But V is unfazed. He goes to the kid and touches him. The other Brahmin kids are shocked. They desert V fearing being ousted from community. But V informs that being Brahmin does not mean not to help the needy. But the other Brahmin kids run away. They consider V now as outcast because he touched a lower caste person. The parents of the other kids too shun him away. V informs the parents that first we are Men, then we are Brahmin and helping needy is utmost priority. But the parents degrade him and tell that he should be punished. V informs that God is there to punish him if need be and they need not bother V. The parents then go and conspire against him.
The boy’s parents come and rescue the boy from V. V wants to come with them. But the boy’s parents do not want him to come with them because of differences in caste and creed.
The Brahmin parents (BP) come to Gururaja and complain against V’s antics in Brahmin agrahara. The BP are concerned about their own kids. They give Gururaja their own peace of mind. V meanwhile comes to the house and informs them that helping another man is not against the Vedas. V said that God didn’t create any castes. But Gururaja scolds him for talking back to elders.
But the debate goes on. BP inform that Brahmins are greatest because they came from Brahma and also the upper portion of Lord Vishnu. V informs that by neglecting one’s own legs, can one go to temple? Can one bear the prick of a thorn on the feet? So one should not degrade different parts of the body.
BP informs that Brahmins are the foremost people. So V says that the fundamental flaw in the argument is that each person will appreciate his own caste as the upper most caste. Then BP ask how is it feasible to stay in cahoots with lower caste people. V replies that if farmers didn’t exist, then how to have food. If warriors didn’t exist, how to defend country, etc. So Brahmins should co-exist with all other castes.
V informs that rice, safety and food are the only things that all Man needs. Without Vedas people can survive but without the above 3, it is not easy to survive. Seeing that BP were losing the verbal battle, they seek Gururaja’s assistance and tell him to wash V in Cow’s urine and wash his tongue using dried grass and make him pure so that agrahara will be a better place. They also mention rice in the purity process but V points out that rice was created by lower caste people.
Gururaja asks the BP to leave and tackles V. V informs that if lower and upper caste is not there, then there is issue of purity. V also asks that even if V is washed in the outer layer, what of the inner thoughts? Gururaja cannot take it anymore and orders his wife to purify V using Cow’s urine and dried grass, etc.
Sudheendra Theertha Hints
Naani visit Sudheendra Theertha (ST). Naani gives TB’s news of pilgrimage. ST backs up TB’s action. He even says 2nd Hoovilli in the house was alright as long as ordered by TB’s Swami. Also, in his mind, ST can see the future and inform Naani that doing Hoovilli through Gopika (when she was married) was the right thing to do. Apparently, since Shiva is the Destroyer (a kind of Lord of Death), it is good to visit Rameshwar to bid final salutes.
Thimmanna Bhat Leaves for Rameshwaram
Gopika questions why Rameshwaram. But TB does not answer. She complains that Kamala is yet young and might not be able to handle the house. But TB is adamant. He says that that’s how they learn. He also insists that a Hoovilli (donation to 5 married women) has to be done in the memory of his mother. But generally, 2 Hoovilli is not done in a household within 1 year. 1 Hoovilli was already done in wedding. So another Hoovilli should not have been done. So Gopika is again shocked. But TB insists that this has to be done after which they have to go to Rameshwara and that will end their responsibilities. Gopika is shocked. There is a hint about a death in the family, perhaps TB’s own which also explains his lugubriousness.
Hoovilli is done. People enquire as to why Hoovilli is done so soon after a wedding. They also wonder why Rameshwara so soon after wedding. But TB and Gopika are silent. They suspect relations between parents-in-law and new daught-in-law. But not so.
Packing starts for Rameshwara. Children and daughter in law ask if they can accompany but TB says no. TB says its not their age yet. TB asks Gururaja to take responsibility to take care of farmland, house, Pooja, V’s children, etc. Since responsibility and wedding has both come in one shot, Gururaja might take it to head, so asks Gururaja to take caution. TB says expected arrival might be about 2-3 months. TB says V to give importance to education.
Then, TB and Gopika leave for their pilgrimage.
Hoovilli is done. People enquire as to why Hoovilli is done so soon after a wedding. They also wonder why Rameshwara so soon after wedding. But TB and Gopika are silent. They suspect relations between parents-in-law and new daught-in-law. But not so.
Packing starts for Rameshwara. Children and daughter in law ask if they can accompany but TB says no. TB says its not their age yet. TB asks Gururaja to take responsibility to take care of farmland, house, Pooja, V’s children, etc. Since responsibility and wedding has both come in one shot, Gururaja might take it to head, so asks Gururaja to take caution. TB says expected arrival might be about 2-3 months. TB says V to give importance to education.
Then, TB and Gopika leave for their pilgrimage.
Sep 1, 2010
Thimmanna Bhat continues to worry
Venkatamba and his hubby approach TB and ask him what is bothering him. TB says he is fine. But former says that Gopika informed that TB is in a constant worry that he is not sharing. TB says that nothing is wrong and all is well. Although TB is worrying about V’s future, he doesn’t share.
Venkatamba’s hubby then approaches V asks V why he is not playing around like other boys but concentrating more on Veena and Vedas. V says that he is immersed in Knowledge and his play and games is all in knowledge and that’s where his fun lies. Saying so, he invites the former for a game in Knowledge and asks him more theology questions like Artha Shaastra, why suffering amongst people, etc. Venkatamba’s hubby answers to the best extent possible.
TB approaches Gopika to inform thus: Need to go to Rameshwar. (This too was informed by Vijayendra Theertha in the dream after V was taught the Kalyani Raaga sacred song but he doesn’t mention so to her) .
Venkatamba’s hubby then approaches V asks V why he is not playing around like other boys but concentrating more on Veena and Vedas. V says that he is immersed in Knowledge and his play and games is all in knowledge and that’s where his fun lies. Saying so, he invites the former for a game in Knowledge and asks him more theology questions like Artha Shaastra, why suffering amongst people, etc. Venkatamba’s hubby answers to the best extent possible.
TB approaches Gopika to inform thus: Need to go to Rameshwar. (This too was informed by Vijayendra Theertha in the dream after V was taught the Kalyani Raaga sacred song but he doesn’t mention so to her) .
Gururaja gets married
Gururaja’s marriage goes off well and Kamala assumes responsibility as the daughter in law of the house.
Seeing the marriage, V asks his dad about the necessity of marriage. TB informs that marriage is an essential part of a man’s life. Only through marriage, man can fulfill 3 dues (parents’ (for the sacrifices they had done in bringing him up), ancient saints’ (for making complex topics like geography, mathematics, science, etc easy to understand) and God’s (for providing such a beautiful environment, fruits, etc). TB also goes on to tell about the importance of being a Brahmin and how precious it is to take birth as a Brahmin.
Seeing the marriage, V asks his dad about the necessity of marriage. TB informs that marriage is an essential part of a man’s life. Only through marriage, man can fulfill 3 dues (parents’ (for the sacrifices they had done in bringing him up), ancient saints’ (for making complex topics like geography, mathematics, science, etc easy to understand) and God’s (for providing such a beautiful environment, fruits, etc). TB also goes on to tell about the importance of being a Brahmin and how precious it is to take birth as a Brahmin.
Dream fulfilled
TB wakes up suddenly and remembers the dream he had just had. He is a shocked state. At dawn, he informs Gopika to get Gururaja married as time is nearing end. Gopika doesn’t understand but is joyous about son’s wedding. Daughter is already married to a Vidwan in the King’s court.
Conversations ensue in the household to hunt a bride for Gururaja. Finally they decide on Gopika’s brother’s daughter Kamala.
When one day TB is drawing water from the well, Vijayendra Theertha again flashes in front of him and again reminds him that TB has not yet taught the sacred and secret rendition to V. Vijayendra Theertha also says that this act will suffice TB’s gurudakshina to Vijayendra Theertha. TB apologises the delay and immediately arranges next day to have the house empty. During that time, TB informs V about the sacred and secret Gaandhaara song in the Kalyani raga and its specialties (to be sung only twice in lifetime, and not to be taught to anyone, etc). He also tells V how he won in the Thanjavur concert. With deep concentration, V learns this sacred song.
Conversations ensue in the household to hunt a bride for Gururaja. Finally they decide on Gopika’s brother’s daughter Kamala.
When one day TB is drawing water from the well, Vijayendra Theertha again flashes in front of him and again reminds him that TB has not yet taught the sacred and secret rendition to V. Vijayendra Theertha also says that this act will suffice TB’s gurudakshina to Vijayendra Theertha. TB apologises the delay and immediately arranges next day to have the house empty. During that time, TB informs V about the sacred and secret Gaandhaara song in the Kalyani raga and its specialties (to be sung only twice in lifetime, and not to be taught to anyone, etc). He also tells V how he won in the Thanjavur concert. With deep concentration, V learns this sacred song.
Thimmanna Bhat gets a Dream
V’s antics and miracles are endless. His interests in theology are insatiable and the unanswerable questions keep coming. When he is sleeping one night, TB and Gopika see radiance in this face never seen before. They wonder what different they did in bringing him up that he has become so different from his siblings but couldn’t pinpoint on anything.
One night, TB sees Vijayendra Theertha in his dream. During the musical concert in Thanjavur that TB had participated and won (a face-saving event because Thanjavur was losing to a competitor) long time ago, TB had learnt a divine rendition called Gaandhaara Graama in Kalyani Raaga. It was this song that he had sung in Thanjavur to ultimately win the tournament. But the fact of the matter was that he had learnt this rendition from Vijayendra Theertha himself who had taught him (rather helped him in singing it in the Thanjavur concert). Vijayendra Theertha also had told him not to teach this rendition to anyone until and unless he gives permission and even if taught, it should not be sung more than twice in the entire lifetime. TB’s one-time is already used up during the concert. The second time, Vijayendra Theertha orders him in the dream, TB is to teach this rendition to V. Vijayendra Theertha also informs that time is nearing completion and tasks have to be done in a hurry. Thus the dream ends.
One night, TB sees Vijayendra Theertha in his dream. During the musical concert in Thanjavur that TB had participated and won (a face-saving event because Thanjavur was losing to a competitor) long time ago, TB had learnt a divine rendition called Gaandhaara Graama in Kalyani Raaga. It was this song that he had sung in Thanjavur to ultimately win the tournament. But the fact of the matter was that he had learnt this rendition from Vijayendra Theertha himself who had taught him (rather helped him in singing it in the Thanjavur concert). Vijayendra Theertha also had told him not to teach this rendition to anyone until and unless he gives permission and even if taught, it should not be sung more than twice in the entire lifetime. TB’s one-time is already used up during the concert. The second time, Vijayendra Theertha orders him in the dream, TB is to teach this rendition to V. Vijayendra Theertha also informs that time is nearing completion and tasks have to be done in a hurry. Thus the dream ends.
Aug 31, 2010
Vijayendra Theertha hints about future
One day, some messengers from Kumbakonam come to TB’s house and deliver a message to TB. When TB reads the message, he is shell shocked. It is not shown to the viewers but it is apparent that its contents have information related to V’s future. Gopika asks about the contents of the letter but TB is asked in the letter not to reveal the contents to anyone and hence he doesn’t utter a word.
Bewildered by the way V is growing up and soon after TB reads the letter, TB and Gopika take V to Kumbakonam to get blessings from Vijayendra Theertha. V sits very near to Vijayendra Theertha and TB chastises him. But Vijayendra Theertha says that it is fine because he is a kid and kids are equivalent to God.
Vijayendra Theertha also reminds TB about the letter he had sent. TB is pained at heart. Vijayendra Theertha also tells TB and his wife to allow V to do whatever he wants.
Bewildered by the way V is growing up and soon after TB reads the letter, TB and Gopika take V to Kumbakonam to get blessings from Vijayendra Theertha. V sits very near to Vijayendra Theertha and TB chastises him. But Vijayendra Theertha says that it is fine because he is a kid and kids are equivalent to God.
Vijayendra Theertha also reminds TB about the letter he had sent. TB is pained at heart. Vijayendra Theertha also tells TB and his wife to allow V to do whatever he wants.
Aug 30, 2010
Venkatanaatha's antics
V asks his parents about Maaya. He asks them about how to cleanse both inner and outer layers of the body. He questions religious speakers on topics like Aham Brahmasmi and Aajanmapurusha. He questions his parents about doing yearly funeral ceremonies to the departed. Most of his questions are unanswerable due to the deep theosophies involved and his parents are at a loss to answer him.
One day when V is in the living room and mom is in the kitchen, a beggar comes and asks for some rice. V promptly gives the rice to the beggar. When Gopika comes, she asks him about the jewelry that was in the rice bowl. But V is not aware of the jewelry in the rice bowl. So he says that the beggar was destined to have the jewelry. But mom is not convinced.
When mom and son are still arguing about the matter, the beggar returns to the house to return back the jewelry and mom is overjoyed about the honesty. However V informs the beggar that they will not take it back as they had vowed not to take anything from others. His mom is shocked and is forced not to take it although the beggar insists. Finally V convinces the beggar that the jewelry is actually his and not their own now that it was given to him. Finally beggar relents and takes the jewelry with him but Gopika is not happy about this and complains to TB that they are not bringing up V appropriately as he cannot lead life like this.
One day when V is in the living room and mom is in the kitchen, a beggar comes and asks for some rice. V promptly gives the rice to the beggar. When Gopika comes, she asks him about the jewelry that was in the rice bowl. But V is not aware of the jewelry in the rice bowl. So he says that the beggar was destined to have the jewelry. But mom is not convinced.
When mom and son are still arguing about the matter, the beggar returns to the house to return back the jewelry and mom is overjoyed about the honesty. However V informs the beggar that they will not take it back as they had vowed not to take anything from others. His mom is shocked and is forced not to take it although the beggar insists. Finally V convinces the beggar that the jewelry is actually his and not their own now that it was given to him. Finally beggar relents and takes the jewelry with him but Gopika is not happy about this and complains to TB that they are not bringing up V appropriately as he cannot lead life like this.
Venkatanaatha's Miracles
One day when Venkatanaatha is playing with a ball along with his friends, he tosses the ball to his brother who is near the walk-way. But he misses the target and hits a grand old woman on the back who is limping with terrible back pain. All the boys run away fearing tirade but V comes to the old woman and apologises. To his astonishment, her back ache has vanished and she thanks V for getting her relived from the decade-long back-ache. V's brother is astonished.
Another day when V and her mom are walking back home in the fields, they encounter a group of running villagers. Upon asking, it is learnt that a small boy is bit by a snake and is almost dying. All villagers are sad that the boy is about to die. V suddenly runs and holds a stone on the snake-bit location on the boy. The stone turns blue and the poison is thus sucked out of the boy and the boy lives. The mother is astonished.
Then another day, a young man is on his death bed. His parents are crying and everyone thinks that this is his last day. The young man is having heavy breathing issue and his breath is coming in gasps. So the parents are about to pour Ganges water into his mouth when V intervenes. He takes the Ganges water from the parents' hands and he himself pours into the young man's mouth. Soon after, the young man's breathing improves and he gets his life back in full. Everyone in the room is astonished at V's miracle.
Once, during a walk in the fields with Naani, he sees a young boy walking with a coconut held at arm's length and couple of farmers following the young boy. He asks Naani what was happening and Naani explains that the young boy has special powers of finding locations in earth where water is easily available. The young boy has just got to walk around with the coconut and wherever the water is easily reachable, the coconut will automatically turn upside-down. But on this day, the young boy has had no such luck and is struggling to find any place in the huge land where water is reachable. When V hears of this, he scans the entire field and suddenly goes to one particular location in the field and informs all that water is available in that location. Sure enough, when the young boy nears that location, the coconut turns upside-down indicating that water is available. Everyone is shocked at V's miracle.
Another day when V and her mom are walking back home in the fields, they encounter a group of running villagers. Upon asking, it is learnt that a small boy is bit by a snake and is almost dying. All villagers are sad that the boy is about to die. V suddenly runs and holds a stone on the snake-bit location on the boy. The stone turns blue and the poison is thus sucked out of the boy and the boy lives. The mother is astonished.
Then another day, a young man is on his death bed. His parents are crying and everyone thinks that this is his last day. The young man is having heavy breathing issue and his breath is coming in gasps. So the parents are about to pour Ganges water into his mouth when V intervenes. He takes the Ganges water from the parents' hands and he himself pours into the young man's mouth. Soon after, the young man's breathing improves and he gets his life back in full. Everyone in the room is astonished at V's miracle.
Once, during a walk in the fields with Naani, he sees a young boy walking with a coconut held at arm's length and couple of farmers following the young boy. He asks Naani what was happening and Naani explains that the young boy has special powers of finding locations in earth where water is easily available. The young boy has just got to walk around with the coconut and wherever the water is easily reachable, the coconut will automatically turn upside-down. But on this day, the young boy has had no such luck and is struggling to find any place in the huge land where water is reachable. When V hears of this, he scans the entire field and suddenly goes to one particular location in the field and informs all that water is available in that location. Sure enough, when the young boy nears that location, the coconut turns upside-down indicating that water is available. Everyone is shocked at V's miracle.
Venkatanaatha is born
As part of baby showers, a sacred liquid is put through Gopika’s nose. The baby showers are grand and all around her are excited and happy that a baby will now be born.
Finally a baby boy is born. He is named Venkatanaatha which means destroyer of Evil. His childhood days are enjoyed by one and all. From childhood, he shows extreme intelligence. He easily says ‘Om’ even when he is unable to talk properly. His understanding capability regarding theosophy is immense.
Soon, he is a young lad and he is asking a lot of questions to his parents about Life and God and Vedas and the parents get exhausted answering him.
Finally a baby boy is born. He is named Venkatanaatha which means destroyer of Evil. His childhood days are enjoyed by one and all. From childhood, he shows extreme intelligence. He easily says ‘Om’ even when he is unable to talk properly. His understanding capability regarding theosophy is immense.
Soon, he is a young lad and he is asking a lot of questions to his parents about Life and God and Vedas and the parents get exhausted answering him.
Aug 29, 2010
Changes in Gopika
One day Gopika starts chanting the sloka Paanthwaswaan…. which is actually a sloka not to be chanted by womenfolk because it can harm the womb due to its intrinsic frequency intonations. But Gopika is chanting this sloka without her own knowledge. So when someone notices this, she chastises Gopika. Gopika informs that she wasn’t aware herself. Soon that someone notices that Gopika is carrying and blesses her. Gopika is glowing with pregnancy as she had never glowed before with her prior two kids.
Then, late into her pregnancy, one day, she finds the orange vasthra (shawl) - which is usually worn by swamis – and she dons it herself, which is a strict no-no for womenfolk. People who see her are shocked.
She also prefers to eat the prasadam given in temple more than her own home-cooked food. Seeing all this, TB too is angry with her and he cannot understand the change in her.
Needless to say, it is all due to the embryo within her.
Then, late into her pregnancy, one day, she finds the orange vasthra (shawl) - which is usually worn by swamis – and she dons it herself, which is a strict no-no for womenfolk. People who see her are shocked.
She also prefers to eat the prasadam given in temple more than her own home-cooked food. Seeing all this, TB too is angry with her and he cannot understand the change in her.
Needless to say, it is all due to the embryo within her.
Aug 28, 2010
Gopika Conceives
In the night in Tirumala, TB gets a dream in which Lord Sri Venkateshwara himself informs him that he is going to have a son who will be an incarnation of the Lord’s devotee Shankukarna. After saying thus, the Lord disappears. TB is overjoyed that he is going to be father of such a great devotee. He wakes up suddenly to find that it was a dream. He wakes up Gopika too and she too informs him that she too had a dream about the Lord. Thinking that their prayers were answered, they head back to Ramachandrapura.
In Ramachandrapura, Naani is taking care of Venkatamba and Gururaja. When the children see their parents back, they are overjoyed.
Life restores back to normalcy until one night when TB wakes up in the night and touches his wife Gopika. At that instant, he gets a severe electric-shock kind of feeling. This is because Gopika, at that instant, had Goddess Lakshmi within her and she was being prepared for the birth of the great saint. TB withdraws his hand and stays put. But he does not inform of this incident to Gopika.
Soon after, Goddess Lakshmi plants the sapling of the soon-to-be-born into Gopika’s womb and hence Gopika conceives although she herself is not aware.
In Ramachandrapura, Naani is taking care of Venkatamba and Gururaja. When the children see their parents back, they are overjoyed.
Life restores back to normalcy until one night when TB wakes up in the night and touches his wife Gopika. At that instant, he gets a severe electric-shock kind of feeling. This is because Gopika, at that instant, had Goddess Lakshmi within her and she was being prepared for the birth of the great saint. TB withdraws his hand and stays put. But he does not inform of this incident to Gopika.
Soon after, Goddess Lakshmi plants the sapling of the soon-to-be-born into Gopika’s womb and hence Gopika conceives although she herself is not aware.
The story of Shankukarna
Lord Sri Venkateshwara’s wife Padmavati is bemused seeing TB and wife’s prayers for 3rd kid. Padmavati asks the Lord why TB family is asking for more when they already have a son and a daughter. Then, the Lord informs they are just puppets in the whole show. He then gives her the big picture:
Once, long, long ago, in the world of Gods (devalok aka Vaikuntam), Lord Vishnu was displaying all his 10 Avatars to all concerned angels and Gods. For each of the Avatar, Lord Brahma took flowers from the plate offered by his aide Shankukarna and poured them on Vishnu’s feet, appreciating him of his feat. Each person being completely immersed in Vishnu’s Avatar, no one noticed that the flowers in Shankukarna’s flower plate was fast becoming empty. When Vishnu displayed his Rama Avatar, Lord Brahma reached out to the flower-plate held by Shankukarna, although his eyes were riveted on Lord Vishnu. When he got no flowers from the flower-plate, he cursed Shankukarna to be born 4 times and the first birth being in the family of Demons. Since Shankukarna had failed in his duty to ensure that the flower-plate is always never empty, Brahma thought that the curse would serve as a punishment to Shankukarna.
Needless to say, Shankukarna was shocked beyond belief. He pleaded not guilty and informed how he too was mesmerized by Vishnu’s Avatars due to which he had not concentrated on the emptying flower plate. But a curse given is a curse given and cannot be revoked.
Lord Vishnu noticing this, informed everyone present (including Shankukarna and Brahma) that the curse was destined to be so. It is due to this curse that a pious lad called Prahallad will be born in the house of the Demon Hiranyakashipu. Since Shankukarna was devastated by this news, Vishnu consoles him that Prahallad will still be a hard-core Vishnu devotee and he will become famous because of his devotion.
Thus, Prahallad was born. The second birth of Shankukarna was as a Bahalik King. Third was as Vyaasaraja Theertha and the fourth destined life was about to be born in the womb of TB’s wife. Hence TB and his wife were cleansing their mind and body by coming to Tirumala and performing the poojas.
Padmavati is satisfied with Lord Sri Venkateshwara’s response.
Note: It seems to be a mistake in the story (or in the direction of this episode) that Vishnu was showing off all 10 Avatars when apparently Prahallad himself – who is an integral part of Narasimha Avatar (#4) - was not born! The story in this link seems to be a better story. In fact, also refer this complete link for complete life and story of Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy which is very well written.
Once, long, long ago, in the world of Gods (devalok aka Vaikuntam), Lord Vishnu was displaying all his 10 Avatars to all concerned angels and Gods. For each of the Avatar, Lord Brahma took flowers from the plate offered by his aide Shankukarna and poured them on Vishnu’s feet, appreciating him of his feat. Each person being completely immersed in Vishnu’s Avatar, no one noticed that the flowers in Shankukarna’s flower plate was fast becoming empty. When Vishnu displayed his Rama Avatar, Lord Brahma reached out to the flower-plate held by Shankukarna, although his eyes were riveted on Lord Vishnu. When he got no flowers from the flower-plate, he cursed Shankukarna to be born 4 times and the first birth being in the family of Demons. Since Shankukarna had failed in his duty to ensure that the flower-plate is always never empty, Brahma thought that the curse would serve as a punishment to Shankukarna.
Needless to say, Shankukarna was shocked beyond belief. He pleaded not guilty and informed how he too was mesmerized by Vishnu’s Avatars due to which he had not concentrated on the emptying flower plate. But a curse given is a curse given and cannot be revoked.
Lord Vishnu noticing this, informed everyone present (including Shankukarna and Brahma) that the curse was destined to be so. It is due to this curse that a pious lad called Prahallad will be born in the house of the Demon Hiranyakashipu. Since Shankukarna was devastated by this news, Vishnu consoles him that Prahallad will still be a hard-core Vishnu devotee and he will become famous because of his devotion.
Thus, Prahallad was born. The second birth of Shankukarna was as a Bahalik King. Third was as Vyaasaraja Theertha and the fourth destined life was about to be born in the womb of TB’s wife. Hence TB and his wife were cleansing their mind and body by coming to Tirumala and performing the poojas.
Padmavati is satisfied with Lord Sri Venkateshwara’s response.
Note: It seems to be a mistake in the story (or in the direction of this episode) that Vishnu was showing off all 10 Avatars when apparently Prahallad himself – who is an integral part of Narasimha Avatar (#4) - was not born! The story in this link seems to be a better story. In fact, also refer this complete link for complete life and story of Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy which is very well written.
Aug 26, 2010
Thimmanna Bhat Goes to Tirumala again
Gopika starts dreaming about another son. A son who is like Lord Krishna. A son who is shining in all his glory. A son who is near but never reachable. A son who is special in his own way. During one such dreamy nights, she yells out and tells about the dream to TB.
TB, much content with a son and a daughter, feels no need in having one more child in the family. But is disconcerted by Gopika’s recurring dreams. He is not sure why she is having such dreams and why the Almighty is making her dream so.
Being confused, he goes to Kumbakonam to check with the Senior Pontiff about demystifying the desire for one more child in the family. The Senior Pontiff has seen the future and knows well what is going to happen. Still, he asks TB to visit Tirumala Lord Sri Venkateshwara temple to seek his blessings.
TB and Gopika dutifully go to Tirumala and do Pooja service for couple of days to Lord Sri Venkateshwara.
TB, much content with a son and a daughter, feels no need in having one more child in the family. But is disconcerted by Gopika’s recurring dreams. He is not sure why she is having such dreams and why the Almighty is making her dream so.
Being confused, he goes to Kumbakonam to check with the Senior Pontiff about demystifying the desire for one more child in the family. The Senior Pontiff has seen the future and knows well what is going to happen. Still, he asks TB to visit Tirumala Lord Sri Venkateshwara temple to seek his blessings.
TB and Gopika dutifully go to Tirumala and do Pooja service for couple of days to Lord Sri Venkateshwara.
Thimmanna Bhat Goes to Anegundi
Lo and behold, within a short span of time, TB is the father of an elder daughter named Venkatamba and a younger son named Gururaja. Both of them grow up to be very cultured and polite and decent and well-mannered, much like TB and Gopika.
TB feels that his time in Ramachandrapura has come to an end as the Vidyapeeta is now in able hands. So he goes to Kumbakonam to meet the Senior Pontiff who then asks him to move to Anegundi to set up one more Vidyapeeta there.
TB, still not wanting to stay away from Kumbakonam and the Pontiffs, relents and goes to Anegundi. The old-timers of the Mutt, who are now really old, realize their mistake in insulting KB – seeing how honest KB and TB were in their duty to the Mutt and not really in the pursuit of Pontiffness - and inform the same to TB and ask his forgiveness. TB convinces them that they never insulted his father and also convinces them that he nor his father had no ill thoughts about any of them.
TB feels that his time in Ramachandrapura has come to an end as the Vidyapeeta is now in able hands. So he goes to Kumbakonam to meet the Senior Pontiff who then asks him to move to Anegundi to set up one more Vidyapeeta there.
TB, still not wanting to stay away from Kumbakonam and the Pontiffs, relents and goes to Anegundi. The old-timers of the Mutt, who are now really old, realize their mistake in insulting KB – seeing how honest KB and TB were in their duty to the Mutt and not really in the pursuit of Pontiffness - and inform the same to TB and ask his forgiveness. TB convinces them that they never insulted his father and also convinces them that he nor his father had no ill thoughts about any of them.
Thimmanna Bhat Goes to Tirumala
In Ramachandrapura, during a classroom session, when the topic is about how barren parents feel for their infertility, a child asks TB if he too is sad as he is without kids. It suddenly hits TB that he is married for 8 years and still he has not had any children. Gopika too is very worried and crying for not having borne any children.
TB realizes that he needs to go to Kumbakonam to meet the Senior Pontiff to demystify the missing parenthood. Senior Pontiff reminds him that the then Senior Pontiff had asked him to go to Tirumala to seek the Lord’s blessings to obtain offspring. TB had completely forgotten it.
Thus realizing his mistake, TB immediately sets forth to Tirumala along with wife to seek Lord’s blessings to bear children.
TB realizes that he needs to go to Kumbakonam to meet the Senior Pontiff to demystify the missing parenthood. Senior Pontiff reminds him that the then Senior Pontiff had asked him to go to Tirumala to seek the Lord’s blessings to obtain offspring. TB had completely forgotten it.
Thus realizing his mistake, TB immediately sets forth to Tirumala along with wife to seek Lord’s blessings to bear children.
Change in guard
Meanwhile the Senior Pontiff Sri Surendra Theertha realizes that his days are nearing. He knows that he is not going to live long any more and immediately asks his aids to take him to Madurai where he wishes to rest in peace after his death.
All the Mutt’s disciples assemble in Madurai during the Senior Pontiff’s last moments. Amidst heavy chanting, and in deep meditation, Senior Pontiff Sri Surendra Theertha finally breathes his last. There is much sorrow in all. Sri Surendra Theertha’s memorial (in the form of Brindavan) is erected at Madurai.
So, the then Junior Pontiff Sri Vijayendra Theertha becomes Senior Pontiff and a new Pontiff is chosen: Sri Sudheendra Theertha. Sri Sudheendra Theertha is a relatively new and surprise joinee to the post amidst high speculation amongst Mutt disciples.
All the Mutt’s disciples assemble in Madurai during the Senior Pontiff’s last moments. Amidst heavy chanting, and in deep meditation, Senior Pontiff Sri Surendra Theertha finally breathes his last. There is much sorrow in all. Sri Surendra Theertha’s memorial (in the form of Brindavan) is erected at Madurai.
So, the then Junior Pontiff Sri Vijayendra Theertha becomes Senior Pontiff and a new Pontiff is chosen: Sri Sudheendra Theertha. Sri Sudheendra Theertha is a relatively new and surprise joinee to the post amidst high speculation amongst Mutt disciples.
Thimmanna Bhat Goes to Ramachandrapura
TB passes his time in Kumbakonam in utter grief and desolation of suddenly becoming alone in the world. The Pontiffs realize that something has to be done to end TB’s grief. So, the Senior Pontiff Sri Surendra Theertha advises him to get married.
Enter Gopika. Soon, a wedding is arranged between TB and Gopika. To lead a family life, the Pontiff asks TB to go to Ramachandrapura and manage a Vidyapeeta there. Senior Pontiff wishes him well and asks him to seek the blessings of Lord Sri Venkateshwara to obtain offspring. TB, although unwilling to stay away from the Pontiffs, finally relents and moves to Ramachandrapura with wife where he starts a Vidyapeeta.
Enter Gopika. Soon, a wedding is arranged between TB and Gopika. To lead a family life, the Pontiff asks TB to go to Ramachandrapura and manage a Vidyapeeta there. Senior Pontiff wishes him well and asks him to seek the blessings of Lord Sri Venkateshwara to obtain offspring. TB, although unwilling to stay away from the Pontiffs, finally relents and moves to Ramachandrapura with wife where he starts a Vidyapeeta.
Thimmanna Bhat Becomes Orphan
Hearing of TB’s musical achievement in the King’s Palace, KB’s mom wants to see him badly. But KB refuses. This saddens KB’s wife and she starts losing her health. Hearing this, TB comes looking for her. Once she sees him, she feels better and almost gets back to normalcy. TB returns back to his tutelage in Kumbakonam.
Soon after, her health again turns to worse and she becomes weak and weak. Again, TB comes back only to see her in death bed. Unfortunately, she dies and TB is struck with grief. He becomes busy with funeral ceremony for his mother.
On the 14th day funeral ceremony, his father, KB, too, collapses and dies. TB is shocked beyond belief to have lost both his parents within such a short span of time.
Soon after, her health again turns to worse and she becomes weak and weak. Again, TB comes back only to see her in death bed. Unfortunately, she dies and TB is struck with grief. He becomes busy with funeral ceremony for his mother.
On the 14th day funeral ceremony, his father, KB, too, collapses and dies. TB is shocked beyond belief to have lost both his parents within such a short span of time.
Thimmanna Bhat Earns Fame in Music
Meanwhile TB studies the ancient scripts from the Pontiff and further excels in Music. The Pontiffs almost decide on making him the next Pontiff. But the ‘hear-say’ of the old-timers in the Mutt diffuses the thought. The old-timers are still very much against KB and his family because KB and his family got more than what they deserved from the Pontiffs. Pontiffs, knowing what was coming in the next generation, gave special attention and respect to KB and his family, and the old-timers in the Mutt, not understanding this ‘attention’, mistook it to ‘favouritism’ and despised them.
The then king once hears of TB’s musical prowess and asks him to participate in a musical competition in the King’s palace. TB does so and wins the audience over. The competitor will not be able to match the skill of TB. TB wins accolades from the king and is awarded suitably.
The then king once hears of TB’s musical prowess and asks him to participate in a musical competition in the King’s palace. TB does so and wins the audience over. The competitor will not be able to match the skill of TB. TB wins accolades from the king and is awarded suitably.
Kanakachala Bhat goes to Kaveripattinam
Life ensues. Thimmanna Bhat (TB) grows to become a handsome young man. He will undergo his tutelage under Junior and Senior Pontiffs. He also starts excelling in Music, specifically Veena – a talent that comes naturally because of genes from his father. Naani also becomes his alter ego.
After considerable number of years in Kumbakonam, KB feels he has outlived in the Mutt and starts feeling that he needs to get away. He informs of his desire to the Pontiffs and the Pontiffs, as if knowing this would happen, informs KB that he has to go to Kaveripattinam – by order of the Divine - to up-bring a dilapidating Vidyapeeta (Student’s school). KB is much happy to execute this task which is expected of him but the Pontiff orders him not to take TB with him. This grieves KB as he is now very fond of TB. But an order is an order and he tries to console the inconsolable mother. Finally, KB and wife make way to Kaveripattinam without TB.
Kaveripattinam is in a complete state of mess. KB sets about himself to up-bring the dilapidated Vidyapeeta.
After considerable number of years in Kumbakonam, KB feels he has outlived in the Mutt and starts feeling that he needs to get away. He informs of his desire to the Pontiffs and the Pontiffs, as if knowing this would happen, informs KB that he has to go to Kaveripattinam – by order of the Divine - to up-bring a dilapidating Vidyapeeta (Student’s school). KB is much happy to execute this task which is expected of him but the Pontiff orders him not to take TB with him. This grieves KB as he is now very fond of TB. But an order is an order and he tries to console the inconsolable mother. Finally, KB and wife make way to Kaveripattinam without TB.
Kaveripattinam is in a complete state of mess. KB sets about himself to up-bring the dilapidated Vidyapeeta.
Kanakachala Bhat comes to Kumbakonam
The story begins with Kanakachala Bhat, his wife and his young son Thimmanna Bhat walking towards Kumbakonam from Vijayanagar. The Vijayanagar Dynasty was ravaged by war and on the brink of disastrous loss when Kanakachala Bhat (KB), who was the then a (Veena musician) servant in the Vijayanagar King’s Palace, found it prudent to escape the kingdom for safety. After a long tiring walk to Kumbakonam, they enter the Mutt where Senior Pontiff Surendra Theertha and Junior Pontiff Vijayendra Theertha reside.
Upon seeing the fatigue-laden threesome, the Pontiffs ask them to take shelter in the Mutt and become a part of the already-crowded-population-in-the-Mutt, much to the chagrin of the already-residents. While the threesome prepare for shelter with the help of an aide called Narayana (aka Naani) who is slightly older than Thimmanna Bhat, the rest of the people in the Mutt despise this new family as they are not willing to accommodate more people in the already-small Mutt. But with no other option available, the threesome make way and adjust in the surroundings amidst hostile glances from everyone.
Upon seeing the fatigue-laden threesome, the Pontiffs ask them to take shelter in the Mutt and become a part of the already-crowded-population-in-the-Mutt, much to the chagrin of the already-residents. While the threesome prepare for shelter with the help of an aide called Narayana (aka Naani) who is slightly older than Thimmanna Bhat, the rest of the people in the Mutt despise this new family as they are not willing to accommodate more people in the already-small Mutt. But with no other option available, the threesome make way and adjust in the surroundings amidst hostile glances from everyone.
Guru Raghavendra Vaibhava
The Life and Story of Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy is now being telecasted daily at 10 pm in Suvarna TV. I started seeing this episode infrequently in the beginning because of the slow pace of the story but now, the pace is quite fast and the story is also absorbing. Hence it is now a daily ritual to end the week-day with Guru Raghavendra Vaibhava.
Although Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy is not an Avatar of Vishnu, His Holy life is still related to the celebrated Prahallad character which appears in Vishnupuran’s Avatar # 4. Hence, I will now continue this blog with Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy’s life as depicted in the daily episodes. What better way to start this than today which happens to be the Madhyaaradhane of Raghavendra Swamy himself.
Kindly forgive the errors in recording, if any.
Although Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy is not an Avatar of Vishnu, His Holy life is still related to the celebrated Prahallad character which appears in Vishnupuran’s Avatar # 4. Hence, I will now continue this blog with Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy’s life as depicted in the daily episodes. What better way to start this than today which happens to be the Madhyaaradhane of Raghavendra Swamy himself.
Kindly forgive the errors in recording, if any.
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