GUDI PADWA

Gudi Padva (Marathi: गुढी पाडवा Gudī Pāḍavā also known as Ugadi in Telugu), is the Marathi name for Chaitra Shukla Pratipada. It is celebrated on the first day of the Chaitra month to mark the beginning of the New Year according to the Luni – Solar Hindu calendar. This day is also the first day of Chaitra Navratri and Ghatasthapana; also known as Kalash Sthapana, is done on this day. The practice of raising the Gudi was started by Shivaji Maharaj to welcome the New Year and symbolizes victory “Vijay Dhwaj”. Since then this culture of raising Gudi’s has been followed in and around the strong holds of the Maratha kingdom.

In south India, first day of the bright phase of the moon is called pāḍya. Konkani Hindus variously refer to the day as संसरपाडवो or संसरपाड्यॆ (saṁsāra ‘pāḍavo/ saṁsāra pāḍye) संसार (saṁsāra) being a corruption of the word संवत्सर (saṁvatsara). Konkani Hindus in Karnataka also refer to it as उगादि, ಯುಗಾದಿ(ugādi).

Gudi Padva in other States Known as Guḍī Pāḍavā (“Gudhee Paadavaa”) in Maharashtra, this festival is also known as

• Samvatsar Padvo among Hindu Konkanis of Goa and Konkani diaspora in Kerala.
• Yugadi among the rest of Konkani diaspora in Karnataka and Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh and Navreh or Navreh amongst Kashmiri Pandits.

In other parts of India this festival is celebrated during :

• Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh.
• Yugadi in Karnataka.
• Cheti Chand among the Sindhi people.

In Indonesia is the day is celebrated Balinese New Year . One of the important days in Bali, Indonesia is Nyepi , the Balinese New Year. It is without doubt one of the quietest New Year Celebration on Earth.The date of this unique day of silence alters depending on the Balinese Calendar , the Saka, which is 78 years behind the Gregorian calendar and follows a lunar sequence.

Astronomical

This new moon day has special meaning from Astronomy point of view. The Sun is supposed to be in first point of Aries, which is first sign of Zodiac and is a natural beginning of Spring. Many civilizations have known this. People of ancient Egypt knew this and Nowruz (literally New Day) in Persia is also based on this observation. The Sun however may not be exactly in Aries due to Lunar month. This is adjusted by adding an “Adhik” (Literally an extra) Lunar month every three years to ensure New Year Day (Gudhee Padwa) indeed matches observed season.

Agricultural

India is a predominantly agrarian society. Thus celebrations and festivals are often linked to the turn of the season and to the sowing and reaping of crops. This day marks the end of one agricultural harvest and the beginning of a new one. In this context, the Gudi Padwa is celebrated at the end of the Rabi season.

Historical

This day also commemorates the commencement of the Shaka calendar after Gautami Putra Satakarni, also known as Shalivahan defeated Sakas in battle in 78 A.D.

Religious

According to the Brahma Purana, this was the day in which Lord Brahma created the universe after Pralaya and the Kaal (Time) began its march from this day onwards.

Seasonal

On this day, the sun assumes a position above the point of intersection of the equator and the meridians. According to the Hindu calendar, this marks the commencement of the Vasanta Ritu or the spring season.

Gudi

On Guḍī Paḍava, a gudi is found sticking out of a window or otherwise prominently displayed in traditional Maharashtrian households. Bright green or yellow cloth adorned with brocade (zari) tied to the tip of a long bamboo over which gaathi (sugar crystals), neem leaves, a twig of mango leaves and a garland of red flowers is tied. A silver or copper pot is placed in the inverted position over it. Altogether, it is called as Gudi. It is hoisted outside the house, in a window, terrace or a high place so that everybody can see it.

Some of the significances attributed to raising a Gudi are as follows:

• Maharashtrians also see the Gudi as a symbol of victory associated with the conquests of the Maratha forces led by Chhatrapati Shivaji. It also symbolizes the victory of King Shalivahana over Sakas and was hoisted by his people when he returned to Paithan.
• Gudi symbolizes the Brahmadhvaj (Brahma’s flag) mentioned in the Brahma Purana, because Lord Brahma created the universe on this day. It may also represent Indradhvaj (the flag of Indra).
• Mythologically, the Gudi symbolizes Lord Rama’s victory and happiness on returning to Ayodhya after slaying Ravana. Since a symbol of victory is always held high, so is the gudi (flag). It is believed that this festival is celebrated to commemorate the coronation of Rama; post his return to Ayodhya after completing 14 years of exile. So, people celebrated victory of lord Rama every year by raising Gudi. The Gudi is said to ward off evil, usher in prosperity and good luck into the house.
• The Gudi is positioned on the right side of the main entrance of the house. The right side symbolizes active state of the soul.

Rangoli

On the festive day, courtyards in village houses will be swept clean and plastered with fresh cow-dung. Even in the city, people take the time out to do some spring cleaning. On this day, people young and old begin their day with a holy bath and wear new clothes. Those who reside in the villages choose to take a dip in a sacred river next to the local temple. This ritual is meant to cleanse their bodies and souls and prepare them for a new dawn.

Traditionally, Maharashtrian women wear a kashta or a nauvari — a nine-yard saree tucked at the back, while the men are dressed in a kurta pyjama and sport a saffron or red turban. Women and children work on intricate rangoli designs on their doorsteps, the vibrant colours mirroring the burst of colour associated with spring. Everyone dresses up in new clothes and it is a time for family gatherings.

Traditionally, families are supposed to begin the festivities by eating the bittersweet leaves of the neem tree. Sometimes, a paste of neem leaves is prepared and mixed with dhane, gul/gur (jaggery), and tamarind. All the members of the family consume this paste, which is believed to purify the blood and strengthen the body’s immune system against diseases.

Maharashtrian families also make shrikhand and Poori or Puran Poli on this day. Konkanis make Kanangachi Kheer, a variety of Kheer made of sweet potato, coconut milk, jaggery, rice flour, etc.

Ugadi Panchanga Sravanam

On this day mantras are chanted and predictions made for the New Year. Later, people traditionally gather to listen to the recitation of the religious Panchanga of the coming year, and to the general forecast of the year to come. This is the Panchanga Sravanam, an informal social function where an elderly and respected person open the new Panchagam pertaining to the coming year and makes a general benediction to all present. Ugadi celebrations are marked by literary discussions, poetry recitations and recognition of authors of literary works through awards and cultural programmes. Recitals of classical Carnatic music and dance are held in the evenings.

Power of Ganesh Rudraksha

If a Rudraksha of any mukh gets a protrusion on its body similar to trunk of any elephant, this rudraksha is called a Ganesh Rudraksha. Only in recent times this rudraksha has received wide popularity. The bead resembles Lord Ganesha with his trunk. In view of high prices commanded by eight or 11 mukhi rudraksha, which are also blessed by Ganesh, traders sell this rudraksha as a cheaper alternative.

Depending on the mukh, the beads also should be effective and all the respective blessing may be there. Eight mukhi or eleven mukhi Ganesh has special significance and are considered very auspicious.

Ganesh rudraksha is used alternatively with other beads in a Siddha Mala to make up for the numbers to 27 (1 to 14 mukhi beads will require 13 Ganesh rudraksha). Thirty two beads of Ganesh rudraksha are strung together to make a Kantha, which people keep at worshipping place to protect them and to remove any obstacles in life. Some people even wear such a Kantha regularly.

Some people get obsessed with the image of Ganash in rudraksha to such an extent that they look for the contours on the surface of any rudraksha resembling Lord Ganesh. There are books written on this issue and the whole approach looks intriguing and questionable. Practically, only such rudraksha is called Ganesh rudraksha, which has a trunk-like elevation on its body.

In addition to the above varieties, there are possibilities of getting several other varieties since it is a product of nature. For example, Sawar, which is a Gaurishankar rudraksha with one bead having only one line and another bead a normal rudraksha of four to seven mukhs. Then there is Nandi rudraksha, which has two trunk-like protrusions on two sides of the bead. Some call this bead Dwi Ganesh.

All these varieties and others not explained and available from nature are revered by people who use then in the hope of deriving benefits. No authentic information is available about specific properties of these beads. If one wishes to use such rudraksha, it should be done with full devotion and the wearing procedure shall be the same like other rudraksha and mantra of Om Namah Shivaya should be chanted.

Scientific Basis of Rudraksha

According to sacred Vedic Shastras, Rudraksha beads bear a great spiritual, religious and materialistic significance. The Shastras considers Rudraksha as a symbolic link between earth and heaven. It is believed that it contains the secrets of evolution of entire cosmos within itself. Over the centuries, the Hindu sages believe that one can cultivate mental, physical and spiritual prowess to attain fearlessness to achieve the ultimate enlightenment.

Nearly 360 species of Rudraksha trees are found in different parts of the world. Elaeocarpus Ganitrus Roxb is the scientific name for the most popular species of Rudraksha tree. This species was named by Dr. William Roxburgh. Elaeocarpus is a combination of two Greek words, Elaei which means – Wild olive, Carpus – fruit. This variety matches to the given specifications as found in our Shastras which are thousands of years old. This popular species is mostly found in Nepal.

Chemical analysis and gas chromatography has shown that Rudraksha contains Carbon, Nitrogen, Hydrogen and Oxygen. Among other elements it also contains Aluminium, Chlorine, Copper, Cobalt, Nickel, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sodium, Zinc, Silicon, Silver and Gold. The electromagnetic properties are due to these elements.

Medicinal properties as per Ayurveda: Since ages, Rudraksha has been recognized in Ayurveda due to its medicinal uses. Rudraksha beads have several amazing powers due to their electromagnetic properties. As an Ayurvedic medicine it is used in the management of blood pressure, mental disorders, neurological disorders, asthma, diabetes and gynecological disorders. Rudraksha is a natural tranquilizer. Wearing rosary of its beads relieves stress, insomnia, anxiety, depression and lack of concentration. It calms the mind and cools down the body temperature. Wearing it around the heart regulates the heart beats and keeps blood pressure under control. It is also known to slow down the aging process. It has anti-paralysis properties. It helps balancing the vital chakras of human body that control the Tridoshas (wind, bile and phlegm). Rudraksha is very useful in patients of Manas rogas (mental disorders) and is helpful in enhancing memory.

Electric properties of Rudraksha: The whole human body acts as a complex bio-electric circuit consisting of nervous system and other organs. Electrical impulses are generated in the body because of the continuous heart beats, blood circulation, and conduction of sensory and motor impulses in nerves, contraction and relaxing of muscles. These electrical impulses are known as bio-electricity. Because of difference in the energy levels of different body parts, flow of bio-electric current starts. Psycho-somatic stress and maladjustment breaks this well-coordinated flow of bio-electric current as well as normal functioning of the systems which results in uncomfortable feeling, illness and abnormal psyche. Wearing Rudraksha controls, normalizes and regulates the flow of bio-electric current in the body. Rudraksha exhibits electrical properties and wearing Rudraksha has a definitive factor of resistance. This resistance generates a specific ampere of current flow depending on the factor of resistance. This acts in coordination with the heartbeat, streamlining it and sending out specific impulses to the brain to generate certain bio-chemicals in the brain which brings about a positive mood and more confidence making us feel better, more poised and energetic.

Capacitance: Rudraksha also acts as a capacitor; this means the ability to store bio-electric energy. The increased level of stress results in increased physical activity within the body along with increase in heart beats, hormonal and the activity of the nerves, thus increasing energy levels and potential differences at different levels as a result, the flow of bio-electric current increases in the body. Rudraksha beads acts as capacitor or dielectric store when it comes in contact with body and absorbs or stores this excess of bio-energy controlling the overall activity in the body and it brings it back to normalcy.

Inductance: Rudraksha sends out specific inductive vibrations because of its unique magnetic properties. These vibrations are the reason why people feel better even when the beads do not touch them physically.

Magnetic properties of Rudraksha: The beneficial healing properties of magnets are an established factor. Rudraksha also have magnetic properties. It has both paramagnetic and diamagnetic properties. It has the unique feature of having the ability to change its polarity. This feature is called dynamic polarity. In Rudraksha, it is by virtue of diamagnetism which is defined as the ability of any substance to acquire temporary magnetic property in presence of an external magnetic field. We know the circulation of blood and heart beats continuously induces a magnetic field around the body and particularly the heart region. The bio-electric flow in the body also develops bio-magnetism depending on the polarity of the induced magnetic field. When Rudraksha comes in contact with body it acquires a polarity that is opposite to the inducing field. That is why it helps in opening up of the blood vessels better than magnets.

CONCLUSION: The mythological and spiritual importance of anything has roots in faith and belief that the human beings have. They do not require any explanations. But, the myths about miraculous effects of Rudraksha on humans have been proved true by modern science. The medicinal usage of Rudraksha on the human body has been established through clinical trials under controlled conditions. The exceptional electro-magnetic properties, especially diamagnetism contained in these beads are responsible for the beneficial effects on the different systems of human body through mere contact with these beads or wearing them.

Beads with a Healing Touch

Whenever we human beings are pushed to the wall, and are unable to face our problems, we always look up to Nature to bail us out. A major problem that is stalking humanity in this modern era is stress and how to overcome it, human beings are taking refuge in the old and time tested alternative healing therapies like Yoga, Meditation, and Music etc.,  and where else could one find the remedies except in the ancient Vedic scriptures?

At present doctors and fitness Gurus are busy giving the various forms of alternative therapies an authenticated new look, we can conclude that our ancestors must have been great prognosticates. They not only wrote and described ailments of the present age but also suggested their probable solutions ages ago.

One such solution is the “Rudraksha”, the hard serrated, round berry of a tree belonging to Elaeocarpus Ganitrus type of plants found mainly in Nepal, India and Indonesia.

According to Vedic scriptures these trees germinated from the tears shed by Lord Shiva and ever since its mention in the scriptures these beads have been not only regarded as sacred but also ones with the healing powers.

It is proven that Rudraksha has powerful electromagnetic, paramagnetic and inductive properties. However, the properties vary with the “Mukhis” (number of lines on the surface of the bead) and on wearing a particular combination, electrical impulses are sent to the brain to stimulate certain brain centers thereby causing transformation in the personality, outlook and confidence. Wearing the beads also ensures mental calmness and enhances concentration thereby building a perfect platform for meditation and spiritual growth. The beads have an in built capacity to control blood pressure. The beads also emit a positive vibration that helps in flushing out negative energy from the body.

Rudraksha are generally available from 1 mukhi to 21 mukhis and each is linked to a God in the Hindu pantheon and with different qualities attributed to it. They can be worn individually or in a combination.

Whatever be its efficacy, Rudraksha can only act as a self-empowerment tool and be a complimentary to other forms of medication. It is not a magic wand that would give instant results one should adhere to certain set principal with faith.

Medicinal Herbs: Anantamool – Hemidesmus Indicus

In the Indian medical system of Ayurveda it goes by the name of Anantamool or Sariva. It is administered in the form of powder, infusion or decoction as syrup. It is one of the Rasayana (Ayana {path}, Rasa {essence}). It is a term that, in Ayurvedic medicine means the science of lengthening lifespan) plants of Ayurveda.

It has been revered for its medicinal properties for thousands of years not only by the practitioners of Ayurveda but also in the folk and tribal medicine. Traditionally it was used as a healing herb as well as a magical-spiritual dream herb. It is used to treat stomach problems, cure rashes, ease the mind, quell the symptoms of syphilis and induce trance and deep meditative states. In Ayurveda it is prescribed to men who suffer from low libido and sexual impotence, it is believed that the active compounds produced by the roots improve male testosterone levels and therefore sexual desire, sperm count, sperm motility and overall sexual performance.

For thousands of years, Ayurvedacharyas have developed numerous medicinal uses and a wide variety of traditional medicines made with Anantamool root. Several of these traditional uses have been validated by modern science and the plant is still prescribed as medicine till date. The majority of traditional remedies and medicinal tonics are almost exclusively made from the plant’s roots; however for skin related issues and as a digestive aid the whole plant is utilized. Over the ages some major therapeutic uses that have been time tested and shown to be effective are that, it is effective as an anti-inflammatory, diuretic, quick healing of wounds, prevents miscarriages, improves fertility, and treats syphilis.

Ayurvedic practitioners have used Anantamool root to promote a calm and tranquil state of mind, to maintain mental clarity. It is a powerful herb that is used by many people to aid in meditation and trance. Scientific studies have shown that it is very effective in treating arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, epileptic seizures, high blood pressure, and stress.

In traditional folk and tribal wisdom, healers used the roots to detoxify the blood, alleviate skin irritations and rashes, to treat urinary tract infection, and to reduce fevers. Women use its root to minimize the hazards of miscarriage and for safe delivery of the child.

A tea prepared using the root produces a calming, clarifying, feeling of euphoria and tranquility. The syrup made with concoction of the roots is used to make a Sherbet, which is more prevalent in South India.

This article brought you by Rudralife, Mumbai.

ANANTAMOOL

WHY HAS THE DEMAND OF HIGHER MUKHI RUDRAKSHA INCREASED MORE THAN THE SUPPLY?

In recent times, like many other commodities, prices of the higher mukhi Rudraksha (8 mukhi upto 21 mukhi) have shot up, rather abnormally. Pricing of Rudraksha is not controlled by any apex organization and is by and large governed by demand and supply that prevails in the market. Large quantities of these beads are imported into India from Nepal or Indonesia. Rudralife, being the market leader in the field has tried to analyze various probable factors responsible for this sharp rise as it is affecting common people as well as the rich. Surprisingly it is the rich who now have to shell out more to buy exotic higher mukhi Rudraksha.

What are higher mukhi Rudraksha? A mukhi is a facet or groove over the body of Rudraksha, formed naturally. Over 95% of the entire production of the Rudraksha is of 4, 5 and 6 mukhis (mostly 5 mukhis) only. Rudraksha beyond 8 mukhi comes in the category of “higher mukhi” Rudraksha, although 2 and 3 mukhi also come under this rare category. Our ancient scriptures narrate great virtues of these rare Rudraksha and our recent experience also shows that some of these higher mukhi Rudraksha change lives and empower people with internal energies, self-confidence and offer protection of all kinds. A Rudraksha like 12 mukhi is considered good for health and 19 mukhi is considered to offer protection against negative forces and enemies. Some of the families who have acquired a Siddha Mala (present cost over Rs. 3 lacs) or Indra Mala (present cost is above Rs. 3 Crores) were lucky to have got these super power packed malas at lower prices. A 14 mukhi Rudraksha which used to cost less than Rs. 20000 about 5 years back is now available at not less than Rs. 1 lac! (Of course we are referring only to pure and high quality beads of the current season and not pointing to old inventories). 8 mukhi Rudraksha which was available at less than         Rs. 3000 is now available at around Rs. 10 – 12, 000 per bead.

A Siddha Mala consisting of collector grade Rudraksha (consisting of 1 to 14 mukhi, Ganesh, and Gaurishankar Rudraksha) which costs now Rs. 3 lacs plus is a very successful combination and there are several testimonials available with Rudralife for its efficacy.

Among various factors for price rise is new demand coming up from overseas market particularly USA, UK, Germany and South Africa along with the sudden spurt of demand from China and great upsurge in local demand in India. This coupled with static (rather declining) production of Rudraksha in Nepal are some of the reasons for this price rise.

Rudralife who have made many successful combinations and have organized over 650 exhibitions worldwide, are showcasing these rare and divine collection for the benefit of people. You are assured of 100% purity and high quality which you deserve.

Rudralife strongly believes that if a customer is paying for these expensive but exotic beads of power and is not settling for low quality (and low priced fake beads), then the customer must get the best.

Rudralife is organizing an Exhibition of Rudraksha ……..

Three Mukhi Rudraksha

Aat Mukhi Rudraksha

Fourteen Mukhi Rudraksha

Fifteen Mukhi Rudraksha

Rudraksha the Holy Bead for all

Pure and Original Rudraksha

Rudraksha is the seed of a fruit from trees grown in INDIA, NEPAL AND MALAYSIA. Rudraksha are rightly said to be the beads with a purpose. These beads possess powerful Electromagnetic properties in controlling Stress, Blood pressure, improving blood flow and Circulation. All the Rudraksha beads are powerful enough to transform one’s personality and outlook in a positive way.

Scientifically Controlled laboratory researches have proved that Rudraksha possess powerful electromagnetic, Paramagnetic and Inductive properties. As a result, upon wearing these Rudraksha, specific electrical impulses are sent to Cerebral Cortex, stimulating certain positive brain centres thereby causing transformation in the charisma and confidence of the wearer.

On account of its Electromagnetic property, Rudraksha beads impact the cardiac activity  positively and  coordinates with the blood flow to the brain. In eastern cultures , these beads are believed to possess supernatural powers and are akin to the Divine.

Thus, surely Rudraksha are the wonder beads helping us perform better and lead a more successful life.

Dr. Swati K Gupta.

 M.Phil., Ph.D

Rudralife Research Team.