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Veera Shasta of Ayyappa: Heroic Power, Sacred Symbolism, and Dharma-Yuddha Ethics
Veera Shasta, the heroic aspect of Dharma Śāstā (Ayyappa), embodies Veerya and Shaurya as an ethic of disciplined protection rather than aggression. This long-form analysis situates Veera Shasta within the Ashta Sastha framework, unpacks iconography (weapons, mounts, mudras), and reads each symbol as a practical teaching on foresight, discernment, and restraint. It links Veera Shasta…
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Inside Ravana’s Swabhava: Pride, Passion, and the Tragic Integrity of the Asura Emperor
This essay reframes Ravana in the Ramayana as a philosophical study of swabhava—inner nature—rather than a mere antagonist. It explores how pride and passion, empowered by learning and tapas, evolve into adharma when unrestrained by counsel and maryada. Drawing on Hindu philosophy, Jain Anekantavada, Buddhist analysis of the kleshas, and Sikh reflections on haumai and…
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When Dharma Bows Before Battle: Yudhishthira’s Sacred Humility and the Ethics of Kurukshetra
Before the first arrow flies at Kurukshetra, the Mahabharata pauses for an indelible act of humility: Yudhishthira lays down his arms and seeks blessings from elders on both sides. This ethical rite aligns rajadharma and kshatra-dharma, signaling that even warfare must be governed by Dharma-Yuddha. The gesture affirms the guru–shishya tradition, anchors strength in reverence,…
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Rama Rajyam Reimagined: Timeless Dharmic Statecraft for Just, Compassionate Governance
Rama Rajyam—Rama Rajya—offers a rigorous, values-based model of good governance that unites Dharma with modern constitutional practice. This long-form analysis clarifies its textual roots, unpacks its ethical and administrative pillars, and demonstrates how justice, welfare, decentralization, and environmental stewardship align with contemporary policy design. It synthesizes kindred ideals from Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism—Dasa Raja Dharma,…
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When Kings Fail: Ramayana’s Timeless Blueprint for Rajadharma and Good Governance
This long-form analysis demonstrates how the Ramayana functions as a living manual of rajadharma, diagnosing the social symptoms of failed leadership and prescribing practical remedies. It explains the timeless concept of matsya-nyāya, the legal vacuum where the strong prey on the weak, and shows how Vibhishana’s counsel to Ravana outlines a ruler’s core duties in…
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Srimad Bhagavatam 11.2.32: Inspiring Dharmic Leadership and Devotion Lessons at ISKCON Juhu
This discourse from ISKCON Juhu on Srimad Bhagavatam 11.2.32 presents a clear, actionable model of dharmic leadership grounded in humility, accountability, and devotion. Drawing on the dialogue between Maharaja Nimi and the Nine Yogendras, it shows why rulers and decision-makers benefit from saintly counsel and ethical review. The analysis connects inner practices—sadhana, study, and satsanga—to…
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Murugan, the Silent Warrior: Master Inner Battles with Meditation and Dharmic Wisdom
Lord Murugan (Kartikeya, Skanda, Subrahmanya) is presented as the Silent Warrior whose true battles are won through meditation and inner silence. The article explains how the vel symbolizes discerning wisdom and the peacock signifies sublimated pride, framing kshatra as ethical strength rather than aggression. It outlines a simple, practical routine—pranayama, mantra japa, and dhyana—that helps…
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“Kshatra: The Tradition of Valour in India” — The Book that Must Decorate Every Hindu Home
Shatavadhani Dr. R. Ganesh’s ‘The Indian Tradition of Valour’ presents a remarkable exploration of the multifaceted facets of Kshatra (valour) in the context of India’s civilisational, political, social, and cultural history. This unique work delves into the crucial role of Kshatra in safeguarding and preserving Dharma while offering profound insights into the philosophy and essence…