Seeking New Horizons. Eko hum Publication of the WBF The Holiday issue

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1 Dec 2K6 Volume 2 Issue 2 Seeking New Horizons WBF expanding into new avenues WBF the World Brahman Federation is seeking new horizons and expanding into new avenues. WBF has ambitious programs that include environmental issues like the cleaning of holy rivers, educational initiatives, welfare of priests, teaching of conversational Sanskrit, and the plight of Kashmiri refugees. The first step is to raise awareness of the problems. This was one of the messages at Conv 06 at New Jersey. Another equally potent message was that the Brahman culture must transcend all geographical and linguistic boundaries. Most Brahman organizations cater to regional or linguistic membership. The objective of the WBF is to bring the Brahmans of the world on one common platform as we have said earlier change a crowd to community. Only then the community can make a positive impact on Society. In Conv 06, about 40 per cent of the attendees were from non- Hindi speaking regions. The cultural programs reflected the same image. The programs ranged from recitations of Hindi and Urdu poems to classical songs in Karnatak music and Bharatnatyam and Kathak dances. A detailed description of Conv 06 is given later in this issue. So, what s next? Come and join us at Conv 07 and make a statement on the contemporary issues. Interim Constitution extended Communiqué issued by the President: The validity of the interim constitution of the WBF has been extended to June 30, 2007 by a unanimous vote of the Executive Committee. Conv 06 (Clockwise from top left): Dr Yegnasubramanian (Inaugural talk), Dr. MG Prasad (Inspirational keynote talk), Mr Ashok Trivedi (Keynote talk), Ms Meghana Vijaysimha (Dance), Mr Nirmal Choubey (President) Eko hum Publication of the WBF The Holiday issue

2 From Your President Dear fellow Brahmans: This year has been a great one for World Brahman Federation (WBF). Together, we managed to hold one of the best conventions, organized in less than 120 days from conception to completion. This must be a record. The convention attracted some of the finest minds of the community worldwide, and challenged the next generation to tackle the issues that lie ahead. It is the success of the convention that gives us the strength to resolve major issues that are affecting our community. WBF has embarked on the task of educating our young people. To pursue this objective, we have put together an online Yahoo! group for parents of young children. This group, headed by Dr. Ravi Chandrasekhara, is already addressing issues that are on the mind of many parents. The issue they are wrestling with is how to raise a future Brahmana in the land where we have chosen to settle, America. Children are the focus of two major charitable activities on which we are working. One is the program to provide educational support for Kashmiri Pundit children languishing in refugee camps in India, and the other involves support of students interested in becoming Vedic priests. Kashmiri children are victims of something that they did not create, and it is our duty to come to their aid. I will be visiting one of those camps in Delhi next week. The Vedic priest program involves supporting schools which teach students Vedic chanting. This effort will strengthen our rich Vedic traditions, and motivate students. The Convention committee has already started planning for the 2007 annual convention to be held in July in New Jersey. The same is happening for the next World Brahman Convention to be held in Mauritius in December As a historic first, under the leadership of our trustee, and this year s convention inspirational keynote speaker, Dr. M. G. Prasad, we are organizing a workshop next spring on Varna Vyavastha that will be open to all. This kind of seminar is necessary to exchange our views with the community at large. At the invitation of Pt. Mange Ram Sharma, President of WBF India, I embark on a very important journey next week where I will be having conversations with fellow Brahmans on issues that are challenging our community. Two public meetings have been planned one in Delhi, the other in Ahmedabad. These meetings are coming on the heels of WBF India s Sonipat meeting which was attended by 5,000 Brahmans. I will also be attending the 25 th anniversary of All India Kanyakubja Board, a WBF founding member. I take this opportunity to thank you for your support and urge you to stay involved. I wish you Happy Holidays and a prosperous new year. Sincerely, Nirmal Choubey AIKB celebrates silver jubilee (Invitation from R.D.Dixit, President Brahman Samaj of India and Secretary General AIKB) Dear Brahman Friends, All India Kanyakubj Board (AIKB) has completed its 25 years of smooth working. During these years AIKB has performed various activities and introduced various systems and policies to fulfill the objectives, for the development of Brahman community in India and abroad. AIKB has organized several national conventions in India and also participated in the world conventions enthusiastically. On the occasion of 25 years anniversary we are celebrating Rajat Jayanti Sammaan Samaroh on 17th Dec 2006 (Sunday) at 2.30 pm (as per schedule below) in the auditorium of Institute of Indian Public Administration (ITO), Ring Road, New Delhi, India. All leaders of the Brahman associations of the world are invited to grace the occasion. We shall be grateful to hear your acceptance, enabling us to make suitable arrangements. The detailed program will be sent to you in due course. Contact: RD Dixit at rddixit@rediffmail.com World Brahman Convention Mauritius, December 20, 2007 Details to be announced Contact Vidyadhar Mishra at mvidyadhar@hotmail.com Eko hum published by the World Brahman Federation (WBF), 18 Fitzgerald Lane, Columbus, NJ 08022, USA. The WBF is registered as a not-for-profit organization in the state of New York. Editor- Dr. Vinod Tewary. All correspondence to Eko hum should be addressed to the Editor, c/o WBF at the address From Your Editor Unity or unification? Unity seems to be the buzz word these days. You hear about it in every meeting social or organizational. Different people have different plans for unity even different meanings of unity. Often the passions run high. People start fighting because they want to get united. Conflicts obviously do not help. They undermine the very objective that people are trying to achieve. Unity is elusive because some people demanding unity seem to have their own agenda. Individual agendas may be even justified that is not the point. The problem arises when the individual agendas conflict with the community interests. In my view, which may not reflect the view point of the WBF, what we need at the moment is not so much unity but unification. We may differ or be disunited on the means to achieve an objective but we need to be unified for one cause the welfare of our community. WBF has made great strides towards the unification of the Brahman community. It has brought people of different linguistic and geographical backgrounds on one platform as reflected in the last convention. It was heartwarming to see delegates of different ages, ethnic, linguistic, and geographical backgrounds getting together and discussing issues of urgent interest to the community. This has not been achieved by any Brahman organization in the past. This is something of which the WBF can be proud. So if you want to get united, first get unified. The WBF provides the umbrella for our unification. Today the need of the hour is to strength this umbrella. Differ with others if you need to, but strengthen the community. Come and join us let us be unified to get united. given above, or to tewary@hotmail.com Eko hum Dec 2006 Page 2

3 Convention'06 Summary of events The World Brahman Federation (WBF) held its second Annual Convention on July 7-9, 2006 at the Crowne Plaza, Monroe Twp, New Jersey. The theme of the convention was Sanatan Dharma of the new millennium. Prof. Ramanath Sharma, author of six volumes on Panini, said that this convention should be remembered for a long time for bringing the excellence of Brahmanical knowledge at one place, and at one time. It was truly a family oriented fun filled three day long extravaganza that attracted about 200 Brahmans of all ages coming from far away places such as Hawaii, California, Texas, Canada, and India. On this occasion, A Glimpse of a Tragedy without an End, an exhibition on Kashmir and plight of Kashmiri Hindus, designed by the award-winning journalist and author Francois Gutier, was also on display. Mr. Ashok Trivedi, Chairman of igate Global Solutions, who came from India to give the keynote address, took his audience to a journey of From rags to riches. In his talk, he explained how due to sheer hard work and good forward thinking, they were able to translate a concept to a global enterprise. He asked the younger generation to treat time as money and be frugal with both. He cautioned the future aspiring entrepreneurs that it is a long way from a good concept to a successful company. In his inaugural address, Dr. Srinivas Yegnasubramanian, the Chairman of the Sringeri Vidya Bharati Foundation, USA, and the Sanatan Dharma Foundation, USA, declared that if Vedic Brahman priests were to perish so would the dharma itself, the root of Indian civilization. In his inspirational keynote address, Dr. M G Prasad, Prof. at the Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ, said that Vedic Dharma was not only Sanatana meaning eternal but also Pracheena meaning ancient, and contemporary, all at the same time. Prof. Ramanath Sharma, said that Brahmana Dharma is not a religion but a value system. Dr. B. N. Hebbar, Prof. of Religion, George Washington University, gave a thought provoking talk in the developmental history of philosophical schools including Buddhism and Jainis. Saroja Hanasoge, a Ph.D. student at Eko hum Dec 2006 Mrinal Shukla, Prof Ramanath Sharma, and Ajay Malaviya Columbia University, ruffled the feathers of the stalwarts of Brahmanism this year again by saying that accepting the community norm was actually non Brahmanic. Jaldhar Vyas, a British born, 35 year old, Gujrati Brahman, an IT professional, and a practicing priest at the same time, defended the classic definition of Brahmanism and Brahmanatva. He further said that leading a dharmic life enables one to understand Brahman, the ultimate truth. Dr. Ravi Chandrasekhara, an expert of internal medicine in Dallas, Texas, who is also well versed in Vedas and Upanishads, suggested that we should honor those who have noble character but not a Brahmana by birth, and asked of those who are Brahmana by birth to live up to the ideals of a Brahman. Sailesh Mishra of Dallas, Texas, an IT professional and an editor of Brahmodaya, the WBF souvenir magazine, proposed that a day should be declared the Brahman Day. He argued that it is necessary for Brahmans to preserve their identity. He also faulted successive governments of India for the miserable conditions of Brahmans whom he called, Dalits of India today. He talked about his own experience in which he was denied admissions in India s top schools in spite of receiving very high marks in the exams, due to his Brahman heritage. Dr. K Ramkrishna, former president of North American Sankethi Association (NASA), presented Vedant in a very systematic way which was very informative to the audience. Mr. Umesh Jois, founder of Omkar Foundation spoke about the Hindu religious services program that his Foundation offers to students in colleges. He asked the audience to volunteer for conducting these services at a college in their area. He further went on to say that the program has been made so simple that no special priest training is required. Dr. Rabinder Koul, the representative Above: Prof Ramanath Sharma and Prof. B.N. Hebbar Below: Mr Jaldhar Vyas of the Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA), spoke of the history of Kashmiri Pundits, and the atrocities that are being committed on them on a daily basis by the terrorists. He also spoke about the miserable condition under which about 250,000 Kashmiris are living in refugee camps in Jammu and New Delhi with no end in sight. His feelings were echoed by another speaker, Captain Surendra Tiwari who had served in Kashmir. Mr. Aswath Hanasoge talked about the threats that the Brahman community was facing both here as well as India. He strongly felt that the only way left for us was to come together as Brahmans, and also educate the masses about the issues that are important to us. (Continued on page 4) Page 3

4 Anita Dubey, the Director of Cultural Programs, with Tripti Pandey Abhinav Shukla, the poet who charmed the audience, with wife Deepti Youth members with Dr. Prasad There were several youth breakout sessions. The feeling of this group was described accurately by Mrinal Shukla, a 20 year old student at Emory, I arrived at the convention with no expectations and I leave today with much to reflect upon as my Brahman identity grows. This convention is a scholarly gathering in which a youth can get lost in the abstract ideas, however, each individual at this convention appealed to my generation because we shall carry our faith and tradition into the future. This is a difficult responsibility and we must all work together to make improvements and strides towards this passing of the torch. Ajay Malaviya, a 22 year old RPI graduate, felt that the convention lived up to the part of the WBF mission which was to educate the next generation about our values, and asked for more work shops in future conventions. One of the work shops was organized by Dr. Vanita Shastri,, an executive director of Meru Education Foundation. The work shop for the very young was organized by Sandhya Dwivedi. There was also a well attended poster session held for youth in Tanvi Tripathi (age 6 weeks ) was the youngest delegate. We are not sure if she liked the lectures but she certainly found the sessions relaxing since she slept through all of them. which the topic was My trip to India. Other breakout sessions were held on a range of topics such as health and fitness, corporate ladder, and conversational Sanskrit. Dr. Jayram, a medical practitioner in the US Army, made a presentation on diabetes which is quite prevalent with the middle age Indian Nirmal Choubey: With 40% participation rate for families with origins in South India,.. the linguistic divide is a thing of the past men and women. He was joined by Dr. Ravi Chandrasekhara, an Internal Medicine practitioner, who talked about recent advances to combat diabetes. Ms. Ranjana Pathak, vice president, Endo Pharmaceutical, the Industry Rising Star award winner, said that for one to be successful in the corporate structure of America, one must exhibit certain attributes such as awareness, perseverance, interpersonal savvy, resilience, conflict management, advanced communication, energy, and clear and direct communication with compassion. A session on conversational Sanskrit was held by Shekher Shastri which was entertaining as well as educative. With 40% participation rate for families with origins in South India, Nirmalendu Choubey, the president of WBF, declared that the linguistic divide was a thing of the past. He further said that the Brahmans of the world were united against atrocities committed on Kashmiri pundits, and vowed not to take rest until each and every one of them returned to their homes in Kashmir. He also called for all Indians no matter where they were to work with the Brahman community to secure a merit Mallika Jois sweet devotional songs based India in the field of education as well as job opportunity. Dr. Azad Kaushik, a professor at the University of Guelph, Canada and the president of the newly formed, WBF Canada, echoed the same sentiments in his address on Vision for WBF Canada. He stated that Brahmans must again take up intellectual, spiritual, cultural, economic, and socio-political leadership in India as well as across the globe. The President urged everyone to attend the WBF-sponsored World Brahman Conv 07, planned in Dec. in Mauritius. In the organizational meeting, WBF Initiatives were discussed in detail. It was agreed that WBF should bring out a booklet on what prayers and rituals their children must learn, create a fund to improve the education of priests, facilitate learning of Sanskrit, and popularize (Continued on page 5) Chandrasekhara & Saroja Hanasoge Eko hum Dec 2006 Page 4

5 Veda Sastry making a point; Shelly Misra presenting her poster; Ashish Pandya the karate kid; children s art workshop WBF Initiatives. Under its community outreach program, WBF held its first Kavi Sammelan in which the Indian community of the NJ area was invited. They attended in large numbers. It was organized by Anoop Bhargava, a Kavi. The star of the evening was Abhinav Shukla who came from Seattle. Amongst the poets who participated were Dr. Vinod Tewary, Surendra Tiwari, Sailesh Mishra. This year again, Dr. Anita Dubey organized the cultural program. The program included two vibrant Bharatnatyam dances Krishna Nivedanam and Shiv Tandav by Gayathri Suswaram, a student at Rutgers, and also a student of Ms. Geetha Prasad, an invocation to Lord Ganesha by Meghana Simha, Shlokas from Bhagwat Gita by Arpita Gorur, Bhajan from Mallika Jois, bhajan by Ms. Asha Janardhan, a prominent teacher of Karnatic music, and dances to the tunes of Bollywood music by Sanjana Ojha and Meeta Mishra. A charming Mangalam dance was presented by Ranjana Pathak, who gave an excellent performance in spitr of an injured foot. The evening ended with after dinner entertainment by Umesh Jois songs to Karaoke music which brought the entire audience to their feet led by none other but Ranjana Pathak. Tripti Pandey, the (Continued on page 7) Sailesh Mishra Eko hum Dec 2006 Impressions of the youth By Mrinal Shukla I arrived at the World Brahman Federation (WBF) Convention with no expectations and I leave today with much to reflect upon as my Brahman identity grows. This convention is a scholarly gathering in which a youth can get lost in the abstract ideas. However, each individual at this convention appealed to my generation because we shall carry our faith and tradition into the future. This is a difficult responsibility and we must all work together to make improvements and strides towards this passing of the torch. I encourage the World Brahman Federation s organizers to include more workshops, such as Mrs. Vanita Shastri s workshop on daily puja, in order to create an interactive activity that will enhance the participants understanding and escape the collegiate lectureenvironment. For every one hour of lecture in college, a student must study two hours at home and this is the key to youth appeal for the World Brahman Federation. A language barrier is outlined in the scholarly seminars thus workshops will be used to dissect the topic and define terminology and concepts. Each individual in this convention has three tiers to his identity: Indian, Hindu, and Brahman. The Indian and Hindu identity has become a way of life, therefore, one must concentrate on heightening his Brahman identity. The WBF convention serves as a networking opportunity and, more importantly, as a means of sparking interest on Brahman topics, as it becomes a forum of debate and presentation. Many of my elders at this convention have expressed that they sense a lack of interest in their children as they enter and become engrossed in their college careers. I want to clarify that this is not disinterest but independence. When children live at home, they take for granted many of the rituals performed by their parents or grandparents. I, personally, have woken up to the sounds of bells from my mother s morning rituals or have simply watched my grandfather perform certain pujas, however, in college, I learned the true meaning and reasoning for these actions. In order to practice these rituals, my generation requires reasoning and this is attained in some of our courses. College serves to make us more independent in our religious duties by guiding us through these rituals instead of stating them and the World Brahman Federation can enhance youth participation by creating more workshops. By Ajay Malaviya Upon my arrival at the first World Brahman Federation convention earlier this month I had limited knowledge, an open mind and hardly any expectation as to what I was going to do, see and experience. The only experience I had was at the BSNA conventions of which I attended two one in Allentown, PA and one in Reading, PA. I remembered my experiences as being positive but not nearly as focused on my issues and my needs as a young adult and more focused towards my parent s generation. When I walked into the doors of the Windsor Room Friday afternoon after a delicious lunch that we caught the tail end of, I found myself sitting in a meeting full of adults talking about the goals, financial responsibilities and the agenda for the next two days events. As each new family entered the room we were asked by family to introduce ourselves and tell us a little bit about our back- (Continued on page 6) Page 5

6 Youth impression of Conv06 (contd) ground. I was very happy to see that amidst all the discussions that were going on that people our age were given the distinction of introducing ourselves and basically informing the committee members as well as all who were present what we had to bring to the table and to get us involved in what we would be expecting at the convention. As the convention kicked off on Saturday I was fortunate to attend a number of lectures with very interesting discussion topics. Some of the discussion panels that were particularly interesting that I attended were those on Sanatan Dharma particularly those in the breakout session in which there was more time to debate and less time to sit and listen. If I will remember one breakout session particularly well from this convention it would have to be the first breakout session in which the discussion was based around finding a pill for Sanatan Dharma that we can all take, an easy and standardized recipe to make all our lives better. I particularly enjoyed listening to the two different sides in a very lively discussion particularly points made by both Dr. Ramanath Sharma and Ms. Saroja Hansoge. Every year the conventions present something unique and different that leaves and impression on those who attend and I felt that apart from the symposia and discussions the Kashmir Exhibit presented by the Koul family was one of those important and different aspects that I think everyone will remember. The presentation of the posters and the video as well as the organization of the captions really tied together the Indian impression of the conflict from a first hand source. I felt this was important and it was an excellent increased awareness module for all attendees. I was honored and privileged that Nirmal uncle had asked me to co-chair the youth wing breakout session on Saturday afternoon. Even before going into the session with very little preparation I felt that it would be an excellent opportunity to meet the various youths who were present at the convention as well as get a chance to know more people my age and see how other individuals from my generation think about issues that face us all today. Through the organization of the youth session I was able to meet and talk to my co-chair Ms. Veda Shastri from Tufts University as well as have an informal discussion with Ms. Saroja Hansoge to get an idea of some of the discussions we should focus on. Honestly I must say there was very little preparation on our part but more of a set of mental guidelines as we entered the session. We began with an informal introduction and background of where everyone was from as well as where in India everyone claimed their roots and heritage. We were pleased to see a wide range of youth from all over India. We then engaged in wide variety of open ended discussions that covered topics of everyone s interpretation of how they practice Brahman values in their everyday lives, how religious and traditional they were, did they enjoy going to India and what aspects of traveling to India did they particularly like or not like. WBF committee did an excellent job in including the youth and making them an integral part of discussions forums What really sparked incredible unexpected discussion were political issues particularly topics of Kashmir. We decided to touch on this important topic not only because it seemed to be a theme of the convention but because we always find ourselves hearing about what politicians and uncles and aunties have to say about the issue however we never hear about what young adults growing up here think about these issues. The discussions centered around what do you feel is the problem, how do you feel it can be resolved and how do you feel future generations should make an effort to resolving the social problems that face this region. Because of our wide background we had some intense discussions and we were pleased to see that everyone was getting involved and there was a level of comfort where everyone felt they could make a meaningful contribution without any reservation. I feel that the group was very positive about their experience in this convention and we definitely got to know each other much better as a result of the youth discussion forum. I thought one of the most important sessions that was definitely challenging for us as young adults was the session Sunday morning on the youth feedback and what we thought we could (Continued on page 15) 99 Years of Excellence By Neil Dubey Eko hum Dec 2006 Page 6 I Neil Dubey is a junior at Georgetown Prep. His interests include tennis, tabla, and drawing. His grandfather (Dadaji) resides in Indore. Dadaji turned 99 years old this November stare into my grandfather's midnight blue eyes as he moves his lips and rotates each bead of the rudraksh mala between his thumb and his index finger. It is 5:30 AM in Indore, and Dadaji, my grandfather, is performing his daily prayers, which he has been doing for the last 87 years. I sit bedside, adjacent to Dadaji himself as he sits covered in a Pashmina shawl. Every few minutes Dadaji glances over at me and suddenly his cerise colored lips stop moving and he smiles at me and resumes his prayer. I remain covered in a blanket to keep myself warm from the brisk North- Indian winter. After an hour and a half, his daily prayer is complete and it is now time for the favorite part of his day. Ek, do, teen, chaar... Dadaji keeps count as his fists are pumping in the air. He follows this exercise with several others and completes nearly the entire spectrum of stretches and lifts possible with the exception of pushups and situps. Dadaji spends the rest of the day sitting in his room, meditating, as he waits for members of my extended family to sit down and have every day chit-chat with him. Over my years with him I have observed he is also an extremely emotional old man and in a matter of minutes his countenance shifts from wearing an ecstatic smile to weeping tears from the side of his wrinkled cheek. Dadaji's 99 years of excellence, piety, and dedication to God serves as a role model to a level I hope to attain when my beard grows silver and long.

7 President s speech at Conv 06 By Nirmal Choubey Dear fellow Brahmans, As you are aware, the Brahman community is facing many challenges today, be it from within or without. I want to share with you some of my thoughts on these challenges, and what WBF is doing to address them. I believe, it is the responsibility of the learned scholars and the rest of the community to resolve the issues, and that we must, before it is too late. Who is a Brahman is a constant question, not only within our community but also outside. Our children are asking this question more and more everyday. It is no longer enough to simply say that we are a Brahman just because our parents identified themselves as Brahmans. The idea that you are predisposed to something simply by dint of birth, is not compelling to them. Then, there are those who are not happy with birth alone. They want more. They want you to perform certain rituals (or samsakaras in the mind of some) on a daily basis as well as be experts in Hindu scriptures. Over and above that, they want you to follow some dietary as well as personal behavioral restrictions, both before and after marriage. I believe, it is a very important issue, and the community must work together to find answers. We just simply can not wash our hand saying that our children do not listen to us. Here in America, in a pluralistic society, there are special challenges for minority religions. It is important that the Brahman community becomes more active to ensure that the next generation understands that there are numerous religious communities represented in America. While we do that, we must also be vigilant of those who write our history books or about us not with an open mind but a built in bias. I am sure you have run across people who blame Brahmans for every thing that went wrong with India. I ask, how so. How a group of people with no kingdom, no army and no wealth could do so much to harm to a country they call their own. As you are aware, Brahmans main preoccupation was volunteering for community causes. Mainly, they were educators or family Eko hum Dec 2006 priests, and that is largely true even today. You look at the temples in America, and you will find that most likely there is a Brahman involved right from conceptual stage to its completion, and upkeep. The same is true in the field of education. The point is that Brahmans have made important contributions in India and here as well, and some how this fact is being ignored. As the secular India continues to evolve so are the challenges to the community. The reservation system is a prime example. It denies its best and the brightest equal opportunity in the field of education as well as jobs. Recent treatment of our religious leaders is also quite appalling; when one compares it with the treatment other religions give to their leaders all over the world. All these things are creating challenges in an area that were unthinkable before. Our brothers and sisters in Kashmir live under constant threat from terrorists and many have become refugees in their own land. May I ask why? Is it a crime to be born as a Brahman, in a secular India? Brahmans have made important contributions in India and here as well, and some how this fact is being ignored. As you are aware, the World Brahman Federation was founded to bring the community together worldwide to address these issues as no single community can address them alone. WBF has units in India, Nepal, Mauritius, and now also in Canada. It will soon establish units in Europe and the rest of Asia and Africa. The process of bringing the community together within North America irrespective of linguistic origin has already begun, and you are a prime example of that effort. WBF has adopted several initiatives and we ask you to volunteer for those. These initiatives take us right into the heart of the issues that I mentioned earlier. The initiatives are given on the back page of this issue. Please volunteer for those Initiatives as your support is essential for our success. To summarize, the community is facing many challenges, and the time is now to work together to address them. Director s message From Sanjay Tripathi I am happy to announce that WBF is in the process of organizing its next convention at New Jersey in First, let me thank you for joining us along with your family and friends last year and turning the convention into a grand event. I was absolutely delighted to see the enthusiasm and level of participation amongst Brahmans from all walks of life. WBF President Nirmalendu Choubeyji will shortly be on a trip to various cities in India to mobilize and unite brahmans for a cause and that is to serve the community. I am sure that will such leadership, we will soon be a leading organization for Brahman causes around the world. We are fortunate to have Pt. Mange Ram Sharmaji as the Chairman of WBF India working with us hand in hand to raise the consciousness of world towards the plight of Brahmans in India. I want to thank you for the opportunity to host yet another convention in New Jersey. Please plan on joining the working committees that are being established and let me know how you would like to help. (Continued from page 5 - column 1) well known promoter of Rajasthani art emceed this distinguished session. A 96-page souvenir magazine, Brahmodaya, edited by Dr. Ramanath Sharma, Anoop Bhargava and Sailesh Mishra, and the newsletter, Eko hum, edited by Dr. Vinod Tewary, were also published. The articles written by prominent scholars in their fields were found to be inspiring as well as exhilarating. (Continued on page 17) Page 7

8 Inspirational Keynote speech by Dr. M. G. Prasad Dear fellow brahmanas and fellow followers of Santana Vaidika Dharma. This vaidika dharma is not only sanatana meaning eternal but also pracheena meaning ancient. As we are discussing this dharma in our times, it is also contemporary. We see that classification is an inherent expression of nature which is full of diversity. This natural classification is there for the harmonious operation of society. If there is no classification in the society even for a short time, there would be chaos. The inherent classification that can be seen in a human society is four-fold namely, spiritual, martial art, production of wealth and obedient activity or service. This classification can also be applied to an individual. However, in the context of a human society the classification is based on predominant frame of mind of people. That is to say, in a person with predominantly spiritual quality, the other qualities support. Similarly, it is the case of other three qualities. This system of arrangement of division of mindset and labor can be seen in an institution through teachers (educators, designers), administrators, accountants and service providers. Such inherent arrangement in human society is referred as varna vyvastha meaning arrangement based on inherent frame of mind and aptitude for a corresponding profession). This varna vyvastha or societal arrangements inherent in nature is based on guna (frame of mind) and karma (work orientation) given by the Lord Krishna as He says in Bhagavadgita (4.13), chhaturvarnyam maya srishtam guna karma vibhagashaha. The basis of this classification is linked to the three well-known mental qualities as satva (spiritually oriented), rajas (action oriented), and tamas (service oriented). Although everyone s personality is an integration of all these three qualities, one of these qualities will be predominant. However, the proportionality of these qualities can be changed. The terminology used in the varna arrangement of a society is Brahmana, Kshatriya, Vaishya and Shudra. Sri Adi Shankaracharya in his commentary on Bhagavadgita describes the relationship between guna and varna as follows. Satva through spiritual qualities characterizes a brahmana. Rajas as the dominating quality with satva as supporting characterizes a kshatriya. Rajas as the dominating quality with tamas as supporting characterizes a Vaishya. Tamas as the dominating quality with rajas as supporting characterizes a shudra. This natural classification based on equal importance to all four varnas was brought out by rishis as a working plan and guideline for a society. This arrangement expresses the integration of nature and nurture that makes a personality. This arrangement is set to avoid undue competition as everyone is good in performing according to their frames of mind. An example can be given in the harmonious cooperation of various limbs of a human being. That is in the case of a thorn pricked into the feet, the eyes see it, and the elbows bend and hands remove the thorn from the feet. In a similar way all the four-fold components of the society need to work in harmony for the healthy existence of the society. It is to be noted that all human beings have equal need and eligibility of pursuit of happiness based on food, shelter, clothing and worship of God. A person born in a brahmana family has to achieve brahmanatva which is all human beings have equal need and eligibility of pursuit of happiness based on food, shelter, clothing and worship of God. based on satva qualities. These satva qualities are also referred as eight Atma gunas (qualities of all-pervading entity Atman) by sage Gautama. These eight gunas are: 1. Compassion and mercy on all beings (daya), 2. Forgiveness and endurance (Kshanti), 3. Absence of envy or jealousy (Anasuya), 4. Purity in thought, speech and action (shoucham), 5. Absence of exertion (Anaayasam), 6. Auspiciousness and wishing good for all (Mangalam), 7. Absence of wretchedness (Akarpanyam), and 8. Absence of longing for things (Aspruha). With these eight qualities achieved a person realizes Atman (Brahman) and can speak about the nature of Brahman, the Supreme Being. It is on this basis the Purusha Sookta says Brahmanosya Mukhamaaseet which means a Brahmana (with these above eight qualities) becomes a mouth-piece for Brahman. A person born in brahmana family not only has to achieve these above qualities but also has to help others to achieve these qualities which are universally valid. All the Vaidika samskaras and day to day activities prescribed for a Brahmin by birth is to help him or her to achieve these above eight qualities of Atman. Thus a person born in Brahmana family should necessarily strive to possess these above eight qualities. Now a question arises namely what about a person born in a brahmana family, either not work towards these qualities or becomes indifferent to these qualities? The answer is that person is referred as brahma bandhu or brahmana bruva meaning that due to the birth in a brahmana family, that person has still potential to give birth to children who could take the path of brahmanatva through achieving these eight qualities. However if in three generations or more, the effort towards achieving the brahmanatva is not made then that family ceases to be a brahmana. Then another question arises, namely, what about a person not born as Brahmana, but possesses brahmanatva through the achievement of eight qualities? The answer is that person by possessing qualities of Atman becomes an Atma jnani (or Brahma jnani ). That person is to be revered by all. His guidance is sought by those in the path of achieving the qualities of Atman. It is to be noted that the person possessing these qualities of Atman has risen above all obstacles. His or her life is fulfilled and is full of bliss. He is a spiritual light and a blessing to the society. Thus, persons who are brahmanas by birth should necessarily strive to achieve the eight qualities of Atman (Brahman). Once they achieve and possess these qualities, they become brahmana by letter and spirit. Then they can guide all others in the path of achieving these qualities of Atman. I humbly offer my salutations to my spiritual guru, yogi-seer His holiness Sriranga Sadguru for his guidance in this fulfilling path of Sanatana Dharma. I acknowledge with gratitude yogi-seer His Holiness Sri Ranga Priya Swami of Ashtanga Yoga Vijnana Mandiram, Bangalore, India for his guidance in preparation of this presentation. Also I offer my salutations to all those from ancient (Continued on page 9) Eko hum Dec 2006 Page 8

9 times to our times who possessed or possess these eight qualities of Atman. Finally I offer a poem of mine composed as a title song for a play on Chanakya, a Brahmana with all the eight qualities who integrated the land of Bharata. Let the Spiritual Light Shine, Shine everywhere Let the Light of Land of Bharata shine, shine everywhere. By dispelling the ignorance within, and showing the path. Let the Adharma be defeated and the Dharma attain victory. With Knowledge-valor, as Krishna- Arjuna, Chankaya-Chandragupta Let the efforts of rishis, the success of yogis show the paths. Follow Rama s path, Krishna s Gita, and Chanakaya s wisdom. Let the immortal lights of Bharata shine, shine everywhere. Let these eternal lights inspire Truth and Dharma everywhere. Educational Initiatives possibilities By Ravi Chandrasekhara We now have 2 nd generation Brahmanas being raised in the USA and we need to provide a guide in form of a manual to teach them our values. The focus should be on those who are preteens as these are the formative years. The need is to provide a guide that is relevant to our era and for those who, inspite of being outside of Bharat, would not be dharmically off from what our shaastras state... How they should maintain Brahmanatva and what are their duties/ obligations Some broad subjects for review: 1.Purpose of a Brahmana's existence: aatmic well being for mankind via the minimum: sandhya & Gayatri. How male Brahmans after upanayana can conduct simple pujas and learn minimal amount of chanting their shakha. How to learn Sanskrit to perform the above mentioned duties effectively. 2.Validity/proof/ duty of being a Brahmana shastras reincarnation. 3.Dharmic guidelines: diet, habits (tocuhing one's eyes after accidentally (see col 3 of this page) Eko hum Dec 2006 Thoughts on Educational Initiatives By Rama Nath Sharma truth is truth, and an adjective such as 'pleasant or unpleasant' does not change anything as far as nature of truth is concerned. Aconsiderable amount of discussion has occurred in the WBF on working out some set of educational initiatives for the Brahmanas so that we could not only get better informed about our value system but could also get some insights into nurturing and preserving them. As a member of the WBF, and a strong supporter of the educational initiatives, I would like to present my own thinking not as much on the educational inititiative, per se, but on the guidelines which I think should form the basis of working out the content of proposed initiatives. Educational initiatives should be proposed based on the core of Brahmana value System. We must clearly understand what our value system is, as for example, truth, respect, compassion, and pursuit of excellence in education. These are part of the human value system in general. However, when accepted by groups as standards of their conduct these values attain their distinguished character. This is what has happened to the Brahmanical value system. Now an illustration: The shruti (Veda) advises us to speak truth. For; to speak untruth is sinful. Now consider this: i) satyam bruuyaat priyam bruuyaat na bruuyaat satyam apriyam: 'one should speak truth; (but) not speak truth in an unpleasant manner' This is one of the basic themes in the Hindu value system. Those who do not know well, understand the second half of (i) above as meaning, 'but do not speak unpleasant truth'. It should be clearly understood here that truth is truth, and an adjective such as 'pleasant or unpleasant' does not change anything as far as nature of truth is concerned. Remember in this context that irrespective of whether it is 'pleasant or unpleasant', truth is truth'. Not speaking unpleasant truth would equally mean 'not speaking truth', or worse, speaking 'untruth'. The phrase 'satyam apriyam' of the second half of the above quote, especially in the interpretation of those who do not know, would simply mean 'do not speak truth'. How could the first half of the quote say that 'speak truth', and the second half would say 'do not speak truth'. The statement is not paradoxical. It is just focusing on the positive in a manner that would not attract any negative to bear upon it. Always focus on the positive, not on the negative. Always speak truth, but do not speak in a manner which may generate hurt (himsaa), anger (krodha), hostility (dvesa), lack of compassion (akarunaa), and non-forgiveness (aksamaa). It is for this focus on positive that a single unit of the value system, namely truth, would bring forth other values, i.e., non-truth, non-anger, non-hurt, compassion. These all can be covered under compassion with its positive correlation with forgiveness. Now consider this: (ii) satyaan na pramaditavyam 'you should not be careless, or negligent, about speaking truth' Statements (i) and (ii) would form the core of the value system. When a braahmana makes them part of his core of conduct, it becomes part of his value system. That is, it is the conduct which makes a value system meaningful. Our educational initiatives should focus on the core of our value system, as understood from the shruti and smriti texts. These initiatives should be developed and explained only to the adult brahmanas, without any underpinnings of religious superiority or sense of superiority or consideration of caste. As far as children are concerned they must learn and practice them from parents who can best serve as role models. WBF must be prepared to hold work-shops, and discussions, on these initiatives to better educate the brahmanas. Writing them for files would amount to nothing but hypocrisy. ( More details will be published on: (from col 1) stepping/kicking someone/something, avid jootha/echil, etc). yama/niyamas, acceptable occupations and also unacceptable occupations. 4. Role of female Brahmans: How they should maintain Brahmanatva and what are their duties/obligations. How their role differs from other dvija & non-dvija Hindus. The guide/book can be patterned along the lines: Hindu Dharma, a guide for teachers (ISBN ); but geared towards our youth. Page 9

10 Raising awareness for the Kashmiri Children in Refugee Camps The Sponsorship Program offered by WBF By Ranjana Pathak Recently we celebrated Thanksgiving and most of us have a litany of things to be thankful for, which probably does not include the bare necessities such as food and shelter or even the ability to have access to healthcare or education. We take these for granted, while there are many amongst us on the same planet that is struggling for the basics. This article is to raise awareness of a new initiative proposed by the World Brahman Federation (WBF) in the hope that you will assist us in making it successful. We all at some point in our lives think of the less fortunate and want to do something but are not able to find the organization or the cause. The thrust of this initiative is to enable the children in the Kashmiri Refugee Camps to be able to get an education. The program envisions: Classrooms with teachers, basic supplies, and an environment conducive to learning. I am sure there are skeptics amongst us and I am doubly sure that there are visionaries and dreamers. Andrew Carnegie was also a dreamer, a poor Scottish boy who emigrated to the United Sates built a fortune in the steel industry and became one of the country s wealthiest and most powerful business men. Instead of going to school he went to work. He took advantage of a small local library which was put together by Colonel Anderson that had less than 400 books. This experience convinced Carnegie that the most productive way to help children develop was to build public libraries. In 1881, he started his campaign outside the United States, by building his first library in his hometown of Dunfermline, Scotland. The next one was built in the U.S in Braddock, PA where Carnegie Steel had its biggest mill. Carnegie had given away $350 million of his fortune; he spent more than $60 million of it to build more than 2,800 libraries, almost 2000 in the United States and almost 700 in Great Britain (Surowiecki, 2006). This story is relevant to the issue at hand; WBF is trying to help the children in Kashmiri camps who are there for no fault of theirs. Education is not only fundamental, it provides freedom. Philanthropy has allowed our world to be significantly better; Andrew Carnegie was a precursor to Bill Gates, and Warren Buffet. The scope of the adoption/sponsorship program is to have a program that will allow WBF and non WBF members to join in this noble cause. There will be a few of us that would refute the need for education. This will enable these unfortunate Our concerted efforts and sincerity will be touching many lives, and we all know the joy of giving is greater than receiving. children to have access to a better life in the future. This will not only help them but help our society. Several philanthropic organizations are tackling global problems such as eradication of world hunger, controlling AIDS, and malaria. This list is not an all inclusive list, the needs of our society are much greater, and this is a minuscule snapshot. Bill Gates new endeavor is not to fight infectious disease but for children in developing countries to have a laptop, the initiative is called One Laptop per Child (OLPC). Education for the refugee children in Kashmir is a much smaller project with modest goals. This initiative needs to take shape through the establishment of governing policies and is calling upon volunteers like you to help. I am writing to you not only as a member of the WBF but as a member of the larger society, I want to urge you to share your ideas, thoughts, generosity, and most importantly your support for this cause. This philanthropic cause has the potential to make a difference for many. Our concerted efforts and sincerity will be touching many lives, and we all know the joy of giving is greater than receiving. After all there are many other projects that Andrew Carnegie could have spent his money but he chose to build libraries because after the civil war, a reconstruction of the country was of utmost importance, many citizens grumbled that their tax dollars could have been spent on something that mattered. Yet it would be hard to argue that the money spent to build libraries was frivolous because the social benefits of disseminating knowledge are so immense. (Surowiecki, 2006, p. 54). Program Objectives: i. To assist the children in refugee camps: Education and general well being; Management of the school supplies; Cultural enrichment through the school program; Civic and environmental improvement. ii. To allocate available funds and other resources in a manner which will maximize the benefits and assist in the attainment of the above objectives. General Program Guidelines WBF makes charitable donations to organizations classified as 501(c) (3) tax-exempt nonprofit. A Contributions Committee comprised of WBF and non WBF members selected on the basis of their expertise and level of interest in participating as a member of the committee will administer the contributions program. The refugee camp must demonstrate that it is genuine and funds will be distributed in an equitable manner. In general, the WBF contributions budget for this initiative (refugee children) should be distributed as follows: 30% School Supplies; 35% Physical facility; and 35% Teachers. The primary responsibility of the WBF Committee is to identify and research the data prior to making the donations. The committee will have mechanisms to evaluate the effeteness of this program. Reference: Surowiecki, J. (2006, Nov/Dec). Philanthropy s new prototype. Can Nicholas Negroponte get governments to buy cheap laptops? Technology Review. Happy New Year And Happy Holidays From Eko hum Eko hum Dec 2006 Page 10

11 Rescuing Vedic Priesthood The inaugural lecture By Dr. S. Yegnasubramanian I. Our Scriptures The word veda is derived from the Sanskrit root vid which means "to know". Since our religion follows the vedic injunctions, it is known as "Vedic Religion". The word religion implies the meaning of dharma. The texts that give us the complete knowledge of dharma are called dharma- pramana. They are fourteen in number and are: four Vedas, six VedAngas (the organs of the Vedas), and four UpAngas (secondary organs of the Vedas). These fourteen texts are glorified as vidyasthana s - the abode of true knowledge and wisdom. (See Appendix 1 for a comprehensive list of our scriptures and what they deal with). As codified by Sage Veda Vyasa, all four Vedas put together had 1,131 SakhAs (branches). However, only 10 are available today, and of those, only two are nearly complete! The Vedic literature can be broadly classified into four groups: 1. SamhitA: the mantra portion; 2. BrAhmaNas: the portion dealing with rituals; 3. AraNyakas - the forest texts, and 4. Upanishads - the portion dealing with Vedic philosophy. The principles of dharma as embodied in our religion are all centered on the Vedas. 2. Glory of the Vedas Apasthambha Sutra describes Vedas as the Pramana: (authority - pramanam vedasca). Manu Smriti hails them as vedokhilo dharma moolam (the root of dharma); Bhagavan Sri Krishna says: vedaisca sarvair-ahameva-vedya: (I am known through the Vedas). The Vedas are Infinite (ananta vai veda;); They are the very breath of Iswara: (yasya nisvasitam veda:) They are without beginning: (anadi) and of non-human origin (apourusheya.) They teach the glories of all creations and the principles of dharma and enshrine true knowledge and wisdom. That is why our scriptures proclaim: vedo nityam adheeyatam tad uditam karma svanushtiyatam (practice the Vedas daily; practice well their prescriptions). It is our great fortune that we have inherited such a rich and cherished dharmic tradition. It should be our foremost duty and goal to preserve such a Eko hum Dec 2006 tradition. Our ancestors led a peaceful and contented life following the path set by the Vedic guidelines. That path withstood the tests of historic times and was smooth to follow without obstacles. 3. The guardians of our scriptures the Vedic Priests Wayne Howard, in his book Veda Recitation in Varanasi writes: The four Vedas are not books in the usual sense, though within the past hundred years each Veda has appeared in several printed editions. They are comprised rather of tonally accented verses of hypnotic, abstruse melodies whose proper realizations demand oral instead of visual transmission.. The ultimate authority in Vedic matters is never the printed page but rather the few members of the Brahmana caste who are today keeping the centuries-old traditions alive. However, the Vedas are approaching a point in history, which will determine whether they survive or slip into extinction. They have shown remarkable vigor and perseverance in the past thriving under potentially destructive political, economic, and religious upheaval but whether they can withstand the accelerated rate of social change in the twentieth century is a formidable question which leaves their future in grave doubt. No that doubt should never be allowed to sustain. Because, if Vedas have.. if Vedas have to perish, it amounts to the destruction of dharma itself, the root of an entire civilization, culture and tradition. to perish, it amounts to the destruction of dharma itself, the root of an entire civilization, culture and tradition. However, as Howard had correctly observed, the ultimate authority of Vedas lies with the vedic priest, who, through a tradition of oral transmission, has been propagating them over generations. 4. Vedic Chanting a perfectly formulated oral tradition The Vedas are called Sruti - which means, what is heard. It is never read from a text, since the recitation of any veda mantra should conform to the following six parameters, namely, varna (letters); svara (intonation); matra (duration of articulation); balam (force of articulation); sama (uniformity), and santana (continuity). If any of these parameters is not maintained, it would change the meaning of the mantra itself, leading to even diametrically opposite effects! In the absence of a written text, our rishis had devised many ways to prevent even a small error to creep in to the recitation of the veda-mantras. These foolproof methods used to chant each vedamantra in various patterns and combinations are known as : vaakya, pada, krama, jata, mala, SikhA, rekha, dvaja, danda, ratha, and Ghana. Among these, vakya, pada, krama, jata and Ghana methods of chanting are more popular and let us analyze them only here. Vaakya or samhita patha is to recite a mantra in a sentence straight with appropriate intonations. In sentences, some of the words have to be conjoined in chanting. In pada patha, a sentence is broken down to words or pada s, which gives the student the knowledge of each word. In the krama method, the first word of a sentence is added to the second, the second to the third, the third to the fourth and so on, until the whole sentence is completed. This method enables the student to understand not only individual words but also how the words combine in recitation with the attendant modification of the svaras. Scholarly priests capable of reciting the entire veda-sakha in the karma format is given the title kramavit. In the jatha method, the first word and the second word are recited together and then the words are recited in the reverse order and then again in the original order. For example, in the krama method, if they are recited as 1-2; 2-3; 3-4; 4-5 etc., in the jatha method, they are recited as ; ; and so on. Scholarly priests capable of reciting in the jatha method are given the title jathavallabha. The Ghana method is more difficult than the above where the combinations of words will be ; and so on. A priest who can recite in the Ghana method is given the title ghanapathi. These methods of complicated recitations in a oral tradition were devised in order to preserve the purity of the word, the sound, intonation, pronunciation, accent and sound combinations of the vedamantras. By repeating the words in manifold ways, the correct tally of words was also kept which has naturally ensured its purity. To enable the scholars to (Continued on page 12) Page 11

12 take up the difficult methods recitation, it was believed that, more difficult methods of chanting earned more punya or merit! 5. The Merit, and the Plight of a Vedic Scholar Today Just to illustrate what it takes for a priest to earn the title of a ghanapathi, let us briefly analyze what is involved in the training. For illustration, let us consider only one portion of the krishna yajur veda, called the taittiriya samhita. In this portion there over 2,000 pancasat s (1 pancasat = 50 pada s), amounting to 109,308 pada s. We can roughly assume each pada to have 3 syllables, thus totaling ~330,000 syllables. In the Ghana method of chanting, each syllable gets repeated 13 times, thus amounting to 4,290,000 utterances. And each of these utterances have to conform to all the six parameters discussed earlier. Only when a person becomes capable of reciting this in any order asked, gets the title of a ghanapathi. This is for only one samhita portion in Krishna yajur veda alone. Then there is Sukla yajur veda, rig veda, sama veda, and atharva veda There were scholars proficient in more than one veda as evident from the names dvivedi, trivedi and caturvedi. In addition, there are other samhita portions, brahmana portions, ranyaka poritons, and the Upanishads, in the vedic scriptures alone. After proficiency in ghanapatha, some learn lakshana-ghanapatha, which deals with the characteristics of each letter, its origin, how it has to be emphasized in a mantra, its varna, the presiding deity, etc etc. Then there are purana s, dharma-sastras etc. All these were learnt without any book, tape or any such instruments in the oral tradition, and were stored just in ~200 grams of the human brain! And the most interesting thing is, it was not that one or two individuals who were proficient in this dharma, but an entire society was well versed in this! Such a scholarship takes well over 25 years of intense education in a gurukulam, in addition to observing all the religious disciplines. Having analyzed what it takes for a vedic priest to become a ghanapathi, let us look at his plight in modern day society. When there is so much of respect and recognition for all other secular professionals be a doctor, lawyer, engineer, scientist, businessman, artist etc. the respect and the compensation extended to these vedic scholars are pathetically far below standards. On the one end we are all proud to inherit such a rich and cherished vedic tradition, but, on the other, not being sensitive enough or even negligent towards preserving and transferring it forward. At this rate, what were originally 1,131 SakhAs, and are only 10 today, will further deteriorate leading to a great loss to human-kind. The only guardians of this rich tradition are the vedic priests. Because of the way the society treats them and the poor compensation, they are not motivated to send their children to vedic schools (pathasala s). With a renewed thrust and commitment, there is light at the end of the tunnel. The vedic-priesthood will certainly become well respected.. Generally they come from economically backward families, and so they drop out of schools early, striving to make a living and to support their poor families. All others who have already migrated to secular education are not going to revert back to vedic learning in the traditional sense. In addition, the personal discipline to be observed by the vedic priest being so stringent (otherwise, the rituals and mantras are believed not to give the desired result, and to even bring demerit), it makes one to shy away even more. When compared to the status of priest-hood in other religions, the plight of the vedic priest is really sad. 6. What can be done to bring back the lost glory of the vedic priest? Even though the situation appears very gloomy, there is lot of hope today. The very fact that a forum like this wants to address this issue itself is very encouraging. Following are some of my thoughts to help foster and propagate this tradition, though by no means exhaustive: 1. The first step is for every member of this varna is to be aware of what we have in our vedic scriptures and become sensitive to this education. 2. Even if one may not have time or may have other limitation to learn, observing the disciplines, one could at least support those who learn, and the pathasala s that teach. 3. Many of the teachers in these pathasala s are highly under-paid and they continue to teach just to foster this dharma. With the affluence of the NRI community, support can be given to increase the compensation for the teachers and stipend to the students. 4. Scholarships for advanced vedic learning can be implemented to motivate students not to discontinue from a ful curriculum due to economic reasons. 5. Most of the mantra s employed in rituals are from Vedas. Actually rituals (samskaras) are aimed at developing the eight inner values (Atma guna s), which are: compassion (daya), patience (kshama), free from jealousy (anasooya), purity (soucam), keeping cool (anayasam), not being miserly (akarpanyam), absence of attachment (aspruha), and peace (mangalam). The more we shy away from rituals, more are the chances of losing those mantra s, since less will be the motivation for the priest to practice them! 6. There can be awareness courses on samskara s (there are ~ 41 samskara s from conception to cremation!), so that every member of the varna will develop an interest and faith in them. Such faith will increase their respect for the vedic priest as an AchArya. 7. We believe that giving danam (gift) to a priest washes our sins. The priest gets this power because of his vedic knowledge. Hence, the compensation for the priests should be given with faith, humility and sincerity so that, it is not just a compensation for a job done, but an offering (sambhavana) for blessing our families in the name of Vedas. Unless this varna raises to bring back the glory of the vedic priest, it may be difficult to expect others to raise to this call. After all, religious practices are only for the believers, and these discussions are aimed at those who have an implicit faith in this dharma. With a renewed thrust and commitment, there is light at the end of the tunnel. The vedic-priesthood will certainly become well respected in society with this awareness. Institutions like the Sringeri Vidya Bharati Foundation Inc. USA, organize mega yajnas like the atirudra-maha-yajna of 1997 bringing ~100 vedic scholars from India, essentially to appreciate and respect the vedic priest-hood, in addition to showing to the present and the future generation, how an authentic vedic ritual could be conducted, even outside of India, and how (Continued on page 13) Eko hum Dec 2006 Page 12

13 WBF Canada Activities By Dr. Azad Kaushik The World Brahman Federation (WBF) Canada has launched its website (wbfcanada.tripod.com) to connect Brahmans across the country. Dr. P. Madan designed the website that connects the spirituality, scriptures and Brahman community at large with an educational goal. The most recent addition includes English translation of Hanuman Chalisa prepared by Mr. Shekhar Parkhi. The WBF Canada will also publish its quarterly news letter via the website apart from providing other useful resources including information about the membership. The WBF Canada organized an informal Deepawali Milan where families of Mr. Bhushan Bhatt, Mr. Gyanesh Paliwal and others added to the festivity spirits. Mrs. Archana Kaushik hosted the event. Mr. R. Tewari of Hindi Times offered to support Brahman community activities by providing advertisement space without charge in addition to provide appropriate coverage of community events. It was decided to launch membership drive for WBF Canada. The current focus is on finalizing the constitution of WBF Canada and to initiate the registration process as a tax free organization. The WBF Canada will support the WBF convention in USA and aims to organize one in Toronto in the near future. Mr. Shekhar Parkhi and family organized Shravani where a number of Brahman families gathered to perform Havan and change the Yagopavit. The Havan fire was obtained directly from the Sun rays. This is an annual event and aims at arousing Brahmanical spirits and would constitute a regular activity supported by WBF Canada. The WBF Canada has decided in principle to support the cause of Kashmiri Brahmans. Mr. Bhushan Bhatt spoke at a gathering of Hindu community at Sant Gyaneshwar Ashram highlighting their plight. The WBF Canada will support sponsor children of Kashmiri Pundits in need of proper education. Given the general plight of Brahmans in India, an objective study of their economic situation, in general, is required for which WBF Canada stands committed. Two conference calls Or- Eko hum Dec 2006 ganized by WBF USA involved intense discussions in support of current and future initiatives of concern to all Brahmans across the countries. The WBF Canada looks forward to a successful membership drive to promote Brahman cause in the community and invites all to join this movement. Please contact Dr. Azad K. Kuashik at (519) to contribute and make a difference to the community. Dr. Azad Kumar Kaushik A Believer in Brahmanical values Dr. Azad Kumar Kaushik was born in 1955 near Ballabgarh, a New Delhi suburb in the family of Dr. Rajendar K. Sharma and Mrs. Kaushalya Sharma. The name Azad referred to the first generation birth in the family in free India subsequent to independence where the family was actively involved in the movement. Dr. Sharma retired as Professor and Head of Extension Education department of the Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. Apart from engaging in practice of academics, one of his major contributions was towards development of Krishi Gyan Kendra in Haryana that formed the backbone of the green revolution in the state and was adopted at the national level. Mrs. Kaushalya Sharma, the only child was born in the family of Pandit Laxmi Narayan Sharma and Mrs. Chameli Devi of Ballabgarh who dedicated for the cause of community during freedom movement. Azad is married to Archana of Meerut and are blessed with one son who is a professional medical student. Azad had his earlier education in India and graduated in Veterinary Medicine followed by his studies at Pasteur Institute, Paris, France, that led to award to Docteur es Science (DSc) with a mention Tres Honorable (Very Honorable). With professional sejours in New York, USA and Geneva, Switzerland, Dr. Kaushik is currently a Professor of Immunology at the University of Guelph, Canada, since With one book, two patents and around 70 research articles, Dr. Kaushik is known internationally for his contributions to the understanding of systemic autoimmune disease and his discovery of a largest sized antibody in cattle that offers new approach to vaccine development and therapeutic antibodies for humans and across species. Archana with an MA in Psychology and B. Ed. prefers to spend time in social and voluntary activities in the community with occasional short assignments in schools... has imbibed in him the Brahmanical spirit to elevate human conscience to a higher level.. Azad s activities included climbing mountains that led him to trek 6000 Kms. in Himalayas and climb two mountains Laddakhi peak (18,600 feet) near Beaskund, Manali (Himachal Pradesh) and Mount Thailoo (20,000 feet) near Gaumukh in Gangotri area. Beaskund is where Rishi Beas meditated and Gaumukh is about 22 Kms. from Gangotri from where holy Gangaji originates. Dr. Kaushik has traveled widely across the world that has led him to realize the great contributions Brahmans from India have made that have positively influenced the world. Such a realization, complemented by the Holy Scriptures, has imbibed in him the Brahmanical spirit to elevate human conscience to a higher level to advance mankind through compassion, education and love. Such an attempt is made through the aegis of World Brahman Federation that promotes Brahmanical values, philosophy and civilization around the world. Inaugural talk contd from page 12 such knowledgeable priests are available even today. Source Material: 1. "The Vedas", Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Bombay 1988; 2. Rescuing our Vedic Pundits, Dr. S. Yegnasubramanian, Page 9, The Hinduism Today, Dec. 97; (Appendix 1. Our Scriptures Please see Page 13

14 Pandit Mange Ram Sharma A Brahman with a Mission By Dr. Radhey S. Kaushik Pandit Mange Ram Sharma was born on October 31, 1936, in the family of famous Sanskrit scholar Pandit Duli Chand Sharma of village Beri in Rohtak, Haryana. Pandit Duli Chand Sharma, a contemporary of Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, contributed towards the establishment of the Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi. Pandit Duli Chand Sharma, a Sanskritist, was known for his contributions to poetry, grammar and astrology among his contemporaries. Blessed with such family sanskar, Mr. Mange Ram Sharma started his career as a teacher in Panjab. His studies, while working as a teacher, led him to earn the degrees of B.A., M.A., B. Ed. and L.L.B from Panjab University, Chandigarh. Pandit Sharma first demonstrated leadership and came into lime light by organizing teachers in Haryana and representing them at national level where he was recognized for his remarkable achievements. But it was during the teacher s agitation against the ill-doings of the administration of Bansi Lal government that led Pandit Sharma in the mainstream politics of India where the then Home Minister Pandit Uma Shankar Dixit recognized his leadership and organizational abilities. In 1978, Pandit Sharma represented India at the World Teachers congress in Manila, Philippines. At such national and international conferences, Pandit Sharma always enthralled the audience with his Dharmic Vani. His contributions were recognized by the Acting President of India, Shri B. D. Jatti in 1976 at a conference on linguistics. In 1983, Pandit Sharma helped organize the 3 rd World Hindi Conference. Given his leadership and contributions at the national level, the Haryana government appointed him a special officer to advance the educational goals of the society by introducing educational reforms. In 1988, Pandit Sharma was nominated to the executive of the All India Brahman Maha Sabha as organizing secretary. It was at this time Pandit Sharma devoted fully by Tan-Man- Dhan for bringing Brahmans together and creating an awakening among them. For his contributions and developing quality journalism, Pandit Sharma was recognized by the President of India, Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma. Pandit Sharma gave a new way of thinking and provided a new perspective to journalism through Hari Awaz. The Haryana government appointed him as political press advisor based on his writings that created social awakening in the society with a positive impact. A compilation of his writings is published as Hari Awaz that provides an insight into his thinking and remarkable personality. His efforts and contributions had an impact on the Brahmans not only in India but the world over. In 2000, he was recognized for his work at the World Brahman Conference of North America. Indeed, this is his selfless devotion to advance the goals of Brahman community and society at large, Pandit Sharma set an example for all to emulate. Pandit Sharma has also ceaselessly worked against elimination of caste based reservations, contrary to merit system, in the field of education and employment. He brought various social organizations under the banner of All India Equality Forum and brought the issue under judicial scrutiny by filing a litigation in the Supreme Court of India. Hundreds of thousands of youth, professionals and members of general public continue to fight against reverse discrimination under the banner Youth for Equality. This is his belief in truth, honesty and justice combined with his hard work that Pandit Sharma continues to inspire all and will go down in the history as a Brahman with a mission for one and all in India and abroad. Mr. Ganga Sahay M. Pathak Profile of an Industrialist and philonthropist Mr Ganga Sahai Pathak is a successful industrialist and a philanthropist. He is the CMD, Prescient Industries Ltd. and also an advisor of his family group of companies namely Ganga Crop Safe Pvt.Ltd., M/s.Purvi Biotech. All companies are Agrochemicals based having marketing net work in almost all parts of the country. He has recently been awarded the prestigious Rastriya Udyog Ratna Award. Born on Jan 20, 1938, he graduated in Agricultural Sciences from Govt. Agriculture College, Kanpur. He did his M.Sc(Agr.) in Agricultural Entomology and post graduation in Industrial Management. He has published 55 technical research papers and review papers in different agricultural journals of the country. His papers are highly respected in the field. He was declared Fellow of Entomological Society of India, IARI, New Delhi. After leaving the research job, he worked for 6 years with Multinational companies in Managerial Capacity. Mr Pathak s nephew Roopkishore G.Pathak is the Director of the company. He is also the Vice President of Akhil Gujarat Kanyakubj Brahman Samaj, Ahmedabad. His wife is a partner in M/s.Purvi Biotech. Mr Pathak s only son Kamalkishore G. Pathak is also a director of the company. Kamal s wife is a partner in M/s.Purvi Biotech (mfg. Biotech products). Mr Pathak s second nephew Late Rajesh G.Pathak who was the Director of the company, died accidentally in In his memory, the family has constituted Rajesh Pathak Kanyakubj Charitable Trust which has a trust bhavan at Ahmedabad. At this bhavan (Continued on page 15) Eko hum Dec 2006 Page 14

15 World Brahman Federation Salient Feautures (Compiled by Vinod Tewary) World Brahman Federation, abbreviated as WBF, is an international organization of Brahmans. The organization is based in North America and registered in the state of New York as a not-for-profit- organization. The objective of the WBF is to promote social, cultural, educational, and religious links between Brahmans of the world, and to uplift the international Brahman community. The WBF will put a special emphasis on educating the younger generation not only in Brahman values but modern education and encourage them to become excellent citizens of the country where they live. The WBF will collaborate with likeminded Brahman organizations of the world and help them to achieve that objective. WBF identifies Brahman organizations all over the world, which promote Brahman values and are operated in a democratic manner consistent with the ideology of the WBF. These organizations are invited to affiliate with the WBF and provide mutual strength to each other. Subject to availability of funds, WBF will provide financial, educational, and any other help needed to individual members or affiliated organizations to help promote Brahman values and for welfare of the Brahman community. WBF provides a platform for our youth to meet and develop contacts with other members of the community all over the world. WBF organizes conventions in the USA and other parts of the world to serve that purpose. Matrimony has been an important consideration in every community. WBF provides potential contacts for those who want to marry in their own Brahman community anywhere in the world. WBF realizes that the community of Brahmans must transcend geographical and political boundaries. We must create an international community of Brahmans by bringing them together and help them seek their own cultural and social identity that has a tremendous psychological, social, economic, and political value. For a group to become a socio-economic force, it must Eko hum Dec 2006 evolve from a crowd to a community. The main task of the WBF is to create such an international community of Brahmans and encourage them to work not just for the welfare of their own community but for the whole society and the country in which they live. Science and Technology, and the consequent industrialization have brought about a fragmentation of society. In the present age of fragmented society and localized irrational forces, it is of paramount importance for individuals to form regional as well as international links and communities. WBF, by promoting Brahman values, provides that much-needed link. Religion, traditions, and characteristic "Samskara" that impart the Brahman values are needed for being a Brahman. It is obligatory for each generation to pass on the torch of Brahman values to the next generation. WBF acts as an enabler for passing that torch. WBF promotes a healthy respect for tradition along with a progressive outlook and scientific attitude. WBF strongly encourages children to excel in modern education and their professions. We derive strength from the past but move into the future. WBF strongly disapproves the evils of Hindu caste system. WBF promotes respect for all human beings and is against all types of discrimination. WBF takes pride in its own identity and believes that we can have respect for different cultures only if we have respect for our own. (Youth impressions- Continued from page 6) change for future conventions. On the WBF website I had a chance to look at the interim constitution in which the mission of the foundation talked about passing the teachings and values onto our children and the next generation. I think the convention definitely lived up to that part of the mission and this was culminated by the questions posed to us on Sunday morning by parents, scholars and the convention organizing committee members. Some tough questions such as the distancing of college students from their parents after they leave home, what things we would like to change in the future conventions and what we (Pathak profile- Continued from page 14) the Brahman community of Northern India can get free of cost stay facilities while going for worshiping to Somnath and Dwarikaji. This Trust has made major donations towards the building of Nirala College, Bighapur, Unnao, which is near Mr Pathak s original village. The Trust provides a lot of help to the poor boys of his village and of his Samaj at Ahmedabad. His wife Mrs Amrita Pathak is a Director of the Ganga Crop Safe Pvt.Ltd. Mr Pathak remained the President of Akhil Gujarat Kanyakubj Brahman Samaj, Ahmedabad for 6 years. He always co-operated with other Brahman organizations based in Gujarat. For six years, he has also been the Rastriya President for Akhil Bharatiya Kanyakubj Brahman Maha Sabha, Kanpur and has organized jointly with All India Kanyakubj Board, New Delhi, many Brhaman SHIVIRS and CHINTAN SHIVIRS at Kanpur, Unnao, Chitrakoot, Jabalpur, Jaipur and many times at Ahmedabad with grand success. On behalf of his Trust, Mr Pathak owns, publishes, prints, and edits Brahmh Kalyan. This is a monthly news paper that is distributed to all Brahman leaders and to most of the Brahman organizations in different cities of the country. Since the year 2003, under the Chairmanship of Shri Manageramji Sharma and Shri Nirmalenduji Choubey of the WBF, Mr Pathak has been the President of the WBF, Western Chapter. Now he is the SR. Vice President of the WBF, India. would like to see more of in the subsequent conventions. In closing I would like to thank Nirmal uncle as well as the entire WBF organizational board and staff for the opportunity to chair and be actively involved in the 2006 Convention. I think the entire WBF committee did an excellent job in including the youth and making them an integral part of discussions forums and sessions the entire weekend. We look forward to more workshop sessions, more discussion panels and a larger youth sector in future WBF conventions as it grows and prospers every year henceforth. Page 15

16 My trip to India By Rajesh Shukla I visited India from 18th October to 5th November,2006. The main purpose of the trip was to acquaint myself with the Brahman organizations. I also visited several prominent politicians across party lines who expressed willingness to work for Brahman unity. There was a definite undercurrent that something must be done to help the community. On November 1, 2006, I attended WBF India meeting at Sonipat, Haryana, that was attended by 5,000 Brahmans. This was organized by the local WBF team under the leadership of Shri Mange Ram Sharma, Chairman of WBF India. This was certainly a momentous occasion. November 1 happens to be the Haryana Day and Punya Tithi of Late Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma, the first chief minister of Harayana. Amongst dignitaries attending the event there were at least four Brahman MLAs of Haryana. They pledged to help fellow Brahmans. Shri Mange Ram Sharma spoke very well on the reservation issue. He recently founded All India Equality Forum to spearhead the anti reservation movement. This organization, with the support of All India Meena Board (A tribal organization), filed a public interest litigation in the Supreme Court, and has organized several seminars. They have done a remarkable job in educating the masses on reservation. I also visited the following organizations in Kanpur, Lucknow and Delhi: 1. All India Brahmnin Sabha, 2. All India Kanyakubj Board, 3. Brahmin International, and 4. WBF India. These are the major organizations. There are several small organizations as well. All India Brahmin Sabha is headed by Shri Mahesh Datt Sharma who is based in Delhi. All India Kanykubj Board is headed by Shri Dharnidhar Trivedi of which Shri R. D. Dixit is Secretary General. Brahmin International is headed by Acharya Prabhakar Mishra. WBF India is headed by Shri Mangeram Sharma. All have expressed their desire to work for unity of Brahmans. But how to do it, that is big question. Shri Radheshyam Dubey of Brahmin International organized a function in Lucknow. He publishes a magzine called Shyam Sandesh in Hindi. Shri S. K. Shukla of Brahmin International opened a office in Kanpur. They invited me to inagurate this office. Shri Shiv Sharma of WBF organized a different meeting in Kanpur. In Delhi, Shri R. D. Dixit of AIKB organized three meetings. I met his team. The meetings were different in nature. These were very productive. AIKB is celebrating 25th Aniversary on 17th December 06. I participated in their preparatory meeting also. Brahman Mahasabha in Mauritius by Vidyadhar Misra Shri Sanatan Dharmiya Brahman Maha Sabha (SSDBMS) was established in the year The objectives of the Sabha were among others: i. to provide a common platform for the Purohits and Pujaris practicing Karma Kaanda, ii. to bring about a certain uniformity in the practice of Karma Kaanda, iii. to promote Hindi and Sanskrit among the members, iv. to train Purohits and Pujaris, and v. to issue calendar of Hindu festivals among adherents of Sanatan Dharma. Those days Mauritius was still a Brit- ish Colony. Hindu Associations were not receiving any incentives or subsidy from the Goevrnment. Neither did the Government interfere in the religious affairs of the Hindu community. The promotion and preservation of one's religion and culture rested with socio-religious organizations like our Sabha. If Sanatan Dharma has stood the test of time in Mauritius, the credit must to a large extent go to SSDBMS. I believe the SSDBMS is the oldest Brahman Association in the world. SSDBMS is still playing an active role in the promotion of Sanskrit Language in Mauritius. With the collaboration of Bhartiya Vidya Bhawan Sanskrit examinations are conducted annually, where candidates take part annually. When Mauritius was granted some autonomy in the 1960's, the granting of religious subsidy became universal in Mauritius. The Mauritius Sanatan Dharma Temples Federation was set up to receive and to disburse the religious subsidies among affiliated Sanatanists Temples. The MSDTF now had assumed the responsibility of training of Priests and publishing religious festivals calendars etc. Because of political interferences in the Federation, many orthodox Hindus have become distant from the Federation. Now our Sabha with the help of a sister organisation Akhil Sanatan Dharmic Brahman Mandal are again conducting Pujaris courses. Both the Sabhas are in the process of erecting their own centres of learning in Mauritius. The Sanskrit Sadan is to be (Continued on page 17) Eko hum Dec 2006 Page 16

17 List of Organizers World Brahman Federation (Not-For-Profit Organization) Address: 18 Fitzgerald Lane, Columbus, NJ Phone/ Fax: Web site: Executive Committee President: Mr. Nirmalendu Choubey, Columbus, NJ Executive Vice President: Mr. Aswath N. Hanasoge, Tabernacle Vice President: Dr. Rajesh Shukla, Cliffside, NJ Vice President: Mr. Bharat Bhargava, Walnut, CA General Secretary: Mrs. Ramaa Srinivasan, Marlboro, NJ Asstt. General Secretary: Mr. Sanjay Tripathi, Edison, NJ Treasurer: Mr. Manoranjan Mishra, Hoffman Estate, IL Asstt. Treasurer: Ms. Deepti Dixit, Bethelham, PA Country Presidents: WBF Canada: Dr. Azad Kaushik, Ontario WBF India: Mr. Mange Ram Sharma, Haryana WBF Mauritius : Mr. Vidyadhar Mishra, Port Louis WBF Nepal: Mr. Ramagya Chaturbedi, Kathmandu President s Counsel: Dr. Ravi Chandrasekhara, Dallas, TX Ms. Purnima Jha, San Francisco, CA Mr. Abhaya N Maharaj, Fair Oaks, CA Dr. Sen Pathak, Houston, TX Dr. M. G. Prasad, Maplewood, NJ Dr. Ramanath Sharma, Honolulu, HI Dr. B V K Sastry, Orlando, FL Dr. Vinod Tewary, Boulder, CO Dr. H. Upadhyaya, Parsippany, NJ Editor, Eko hum & Home Page, Dr. Vinod K. Tewary, Boulder, CO Editor, Brahmodaya: Mr. Anoop Bhargava, Plainsboro, NJ Global Director, Cultural Programs: Dr. Anita Dubey, Potomac, MD Global Director, Conventions: Dr. Chandra M Dwivedi, Alamo, CA Director, Marketing: Ms. Rajni Koul, Jersey City, NJ Eko hum Dec 2006 Director, KPRC Program: Mrs. Ranjana Pathak, Medford, NY Director, KP Issue Program: Dr. Rabinder Koul, Jersey City, NJ WBF India Public Meeting Announcements: Date: December 15, 2006 Location: Dee Marks Hotel & Resorts, N H #8, Delhi- Jaipur Highway, adjoining Shiv Murti, Rangpuri, New Delhi Contact phone: ; info@deemarks.com Meeting: 11:30AM 1:30 PM Lunch: 1:30-2:30 PM Hosted by Pt. Mange Ram Sharma, President, WBF India, Ph: (m) Objective: WBF President Mr. N. Choubey from USA will provide update on WBF activities. Date: December 30, 2006 Location: Premise of Bungalow number 13 and 14, Vallabh Park, Sabarmati, Ahmedabad-19. Meeting: 4:00PM 6:00 PM Dinner follows. Hosted by Sri Ganga Sahay Pathak, Senior Vice President, WBF India. Objective: WBF President Mr. N Choubey and WBF India President Pt. Mange Ram Sharma to provide update of WBF activities. (Mauritius- Continued from page 16) constructed on a plot of land donated to the Sabha by the retired Judge Gobhurdhun, while the Brahma Gurukulam is to be constructed on a plot of land leased by the State. Although there have been malicious campaigns against the Brahmans by some unscrupulous politicians, we are still bearing the torch of Sanatan Dharma very high. Our strength lies in the fact that in spite of all odds we have always stood by our Dharma. We look forward to the hosting of the next WBF Convention in the Republic of Mauritius in December We count on the support of Brahmans world wide. More details of the convention, full text of talks, and slides of Mr Ashok Trivedi s keynote talk are available at: World Brahman Federation Minutes of the Phone meeting Nov 5, 2006 The meeting was well attended. Amongst others, Sri Sarma Chitti (past General Secretary who has moved to India) also attended the meeting. Sri Chitti gave information about the activities of Arsha Vignan Parishath an organization that he has started in Hyderabad. The Charitable Causes Committee met for half an hour before the start of the general meeting. A compilation of issues/causes (from member s) that WBF should take up was presented for opinion and approval. Some members expressed concern that the focus of WBF would be diluted if issues that impact Human Race in general -like victims of natural disasters/ war/communicable diseases - are taken up. They favored issues that impacted Hindus in general, Brahmans in particular. Mr. Ravindar and Mrs. Rajni Koul volunteered to make use of Mr. Nirmal Choubey s upcoming visit to India in December by putting him in touch with people in that could arrange his visit to the refugee camp in Delhi. Shri BVK Sastry presented his views on support for temples and priests, promotion of Sanskrit (in educational curriculum), concept of Satvik food, a survey of Brahman status in India. He forwarded a very nice write-up to all the people that attended the meeting. WBF Canada gave a update of all the impressive progress made by the Canada sister unit of WBF USA. Sh. Sanjay Tripathi requested for suggestions for selection of a venue for the 2007 Conference. There were suggestions for making a successful membership drive. (Conv summary- Continued from page 7) World Brahman Federation was established in 2000 as an umbrella group. It is registered in the state of New York as a Not-For-Profit organization. In addition to the annual conventions in North America, it also holds international conventions worldwide. The last international convention was held in New Delhi in 2003, and the next one is planned in Mauritius on December 20, WBF has units in India, Nepal and Mauritius, and now in Canada. Page 17

18 Anoop Bhargava a profile Mr. Anoop Bhargava, an active member of World Brahman Federation has been awarded the prestigious "Hindi Videsh Prasaar Samman" for promotion of Hindi abroad by Uttar Pradesh Hindi Sansthaan. The award was presented to him by Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Shri Mulayam Singh Yadav in a ceremony held at Lucknow on Hindi Divas, September 14, Famous Hindi poet and writer Dr. Kanhaiyya Lal Nandan was the Guest of Honor for the ceremony. Other recipients of awards in the ceremony included Dr. Naamvar Singh, Dr. Narendra Kohli, Dr. Himanshu Joshi and Dr. Mrs. Indu Jain. Anoop was born in the town of Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan. From his early childhood he was fascinated by Hindi poetry and wrote his first poem at the age of 7. After finishing his high-school in Rajasthan, he went to Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani to get a degree in Chemical Engineering. He then went to Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi for a post- graduate degree in Informaion Technology. Even while pursuing a technical path, Anoop kept alive his passion for poetry and literature. He edited the college magazine, participated in poetry competitions and won numerous prizes. He founded Sneh Nirjhar, an organization for promotion of Hindi that organized several successful Kavi Sammelans in Pilani. After working for a few years in India, Anoop migrated to United States in Anoop works as an independent IT consultant for his own company that he founded in Anoop is an active member and organizing secretary of International Hindi Association (IHA) an organization with over 600 members. Under the banner of IHA, Anoop has convened Kavi Sammelans across the USA featuring Gopal Das Neeraj in 2004 and Som Thakur in According to Anoop, poetry is not an option, it just happens. He along with his wife Rajni are frequently invited to Kavi Sammalans and Mushairas across USA. He was one of the two poets chosen from USA to take part along with legendary Gulzar Sahab in Kavi Sammelan/ Mushaira to commemorate 25th Anniversary of Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan. Anoop is known for his rendition of short and crisp poems. He has also experimented with his penchant of mathematics in poems. He is a frequent contributor to many poetry groups and e-magazines such as Kaavyaalaya, Anubhuti and Kritya. He also hosts a very active and vibrant Yahoo Group e-kavita to share poetry amongst 350+ members across the globe (ekavita-owner@yahoogroups.com or ekavita/ ). Anoop s poems can be read on his personal web site anoopbhargava.blogspot.com. Anoop believes that internet can play an important role in spreading Hindi across the globe and has been working aggressively on several projects to realize this goal. Season s Greetings By Dr. M.G. Prasad Listen to the sounds of joy, For it forms a pleasing music. See the smiles on people s faces, For they express season s greetings. Feel the spirit of holidays, For it brings hope and peace. As one wishes happy holidays to all, Joy of the season spreads all around. The source of my light By Vinod Tewary (Traslated from Hindi) This universe Huge but not overwhelming Me small but not insignificant Mortal but not weak I am the energy materialized For I am my ego The power eternal That, like the laws of Newton, Is the absolute truth Indestructible and for ever Glows in my heart The source of my light. Poetic gems by Anoop Translated from Hindi by Lavanya Shah Ms Lavnaya Shah is an accomplished poet and author. Her father Late Pt Narendra Sharma was a famous Hindi poet who was known for his lyrical charm and poetic excellence. We hope to present a feature on Pt. Sharma in a future issue of Eko hum. You are as beautiful as the sky of a full moon night You are as beautiful as the dreams of a newly wed bride In what other words can I describe you You are as beautiful as the innocent smile of a sleeping child **** Relations should not be confined between boundaries, Nor should they be poured into misleading definitions Let them flow like soaring birds, like an unbridled river... Let them find their confined landscape, their search will yield their own adjectives! Let the moment dictate its deed and let the boundary be of heart's choosing! *** You are an ocean's shore And me, an unquenched wave. I rise to to seek & kiss you. But you, like an immobile rock, Stand as you were... It is me who seeks you every time touch you and slink away... From Ramcharitmaanas By Goswamy Tulsidas (Ramcharit Manas by Tulsidas is one of the best poetry ever written anywhere in the world. We will quote one piece from this epic as our tribute to the writer of a masterpiece of world literature) Bole vihans Mahesh tab, gyaanee moorh na koya Jo jas jab Harihar chahain So tas tehi kshan hoya Approx translation: Lord Shiva smiled and said, No one is wise or fool. At any moment one is what God wants him/her to be. Eko hum Dec 2006 Page 18

19 Brahmans and vegetarianism By Iyer S.S..Vasan Brahmans and vegetarianism happens to be one of the important issues to be addressed by us. The Brahman youth have no inhibition in breaking this age-old custom. They are not feeling guilty anymore. They think it normal, take it as routine and conclude as a personal matter to eat nonveg food. We have observed this change in all segments of our youth - urban, rural, rich and poor. We have to analyze the basic reasons of this phenomenon in a non-biased neutral state of mind. Cursing the youth for their care-free attitude or blaming the society for this blunder will lead us nowhere. If we are going to tell our youth to stop this practice, we should tell them why. Brahman youth of today is different from yesteryears. The exposure, the education and the environment they get now-a-days are different our ancient culture. We should be able to convince our youth for any change in their attitude. Simply quoting any custom or faith will not do. The youth, particularly Brahman youth, won t buy any theory unless it is logical and fits facts. The inability and inadequacy of explaining why we should not eat nonveg is the root cause of the problem... Brahman is a uniform given by the society to do certain duties. Before proceeding further, let us see the other side of the coin. The Brahman youth of today are having some basic opinions. They think honestly (without any disrespect or disgrace to elders) that there should not be any interference or condition in the matters of food and clothing. They dislike obeying any order given in the name of community or religion. They think that everything is OK in young age. When the situation is such, our task becomes delicate. We wish to tell our Brahman youth one thing ab initio. We do not want to be looked somebody teaching morals. We are not going to give sermons and lectures on this subject. We would like to put forward some thinking and bring to the notice of our youth. Somebody eating something and why is not also the topic we would like to cover. We say only one thing and that Eko hum Dec 2006 too clearly. We Brahmans, as a community perhaps the only community of the world, have some obligations and duties towards society. This obligation and duty had been cast on us from very beginning for some specific noble purposes. We are supposed to learn veda and teach its contents to others. We are given the driver s seat in the vehicle of community forwarding. It is our duty to run the vehicle and take the inmates to the destination safely. Leading a model life needs discipline. The driver is not supposed to drink while driving. He is punished if he does. Not drinking as such but drunk driving is punished. Brahmans by their soft nature and selfless character should live for others. And the other includes animals, birds and all other living creatures. Just to satisfy his taste and appetite, a Brahman should not kill or allow being killed any living creatures. It is his duty to refuse and refrain from the delicacy, goodness, strength or whatever one may tell to justify eating non-veg. By putting this condition and forcing our youth, we do not intend to disgrace or disrespect any other community. Brahman is a uniform given by the society to do certain duties. By wearing that uniform he should adhere to some do s and don ts. Not eating nonveg is one of the conditions to have that uniform. Do it with the sense of duty. The good and bad of such eating is not your concern. About the author Iyer S.S.Vasan, using his own words, is a simple man with great ideas. A Businessman by profession, a Lawyer by qualification, and a Brahman by Passion, Vasan is the Editor of a bilingual Monthly Magazine Brahmin Today. This Magazine, which is his ambition and achievement, is published with the objective of creating a common identity among the Brahmans living all over the World. Vasan took his LL. B. Degree from Mumbai University but settled in Chennai. His interests include but not limited to politics, arts, history, and all kind of Music, particularly Carnatic. A prosodic writer in Tamil and English, Vasan is a fluent speaker in Tamil, English, Hindi, Malayalam and Marathi Languages. Vasan sincerely believes only his father, who is no more, is the Sprit and Energy of his entire venture. Makhan Lal had recently come from India. He rented an apartment in New York. Unfortunately, one late night, his wife became seriously ill. He called 911 (emergency number) and asked the operator if she can send an ambulance. The operator asked his address. Makhan Lal said, 205, Excelsior Street. The operator could not understand the name of the street, so she asked Makhan Lal, Can you please spell it?. Makhan Lal thought for a moment, then said, I can drag her to King road. Can you send the ambulance to King road? Sure, said the operator, but why do you want to drag her to King Road? Because said Makhan Lal, I know the spelling of King. *** Makhan Lal applied for a job in Police. The interviewing officer, trying to test his general knowledge, asked, Who killed John Kennedy? Makhan Lal looked surprised at the question. He replied I don t know. The officer was naturally displeased. He immediately stopped the interview and said, Well, go and find out. Later Mrs. Makhan Lal asked him if he got the job. Makhan Lal replied enthusiastically, Oh, yes, of course. Not only that, on my first day on the job, they put me on to a murder mystery! *** A man told Police that his credit card was stolen several months back. The Police asked, Why did you not report it until now? The man explained that he decided not to report it because the thief was spending less than his wife did. *** Three men were granted one boon each from God. The first one asked for an IQ of 200 and got it. The second one asked for artistic taste and got it. The third man, who saw the other two getting what they wanted, asked for both things- High IQ as well as artistic sense. So God made him a woman. Page 19

20 WBF Initiatives Educational Initiative- Through this initiative we hope to imbibe in our children awareness as to what does it mean to be a Brahman, and why it is important that we do not lose this identity. Within this Initiative, through Omkar Foundation we are providing opportunities to the students to learn about Hinduism and practice them as well. Priest Status Improvement Initiative- Through this initiative we want to make it attractive for the best and brightest amongst us to opt for priesthood profession. We would like this profession to be involved in the total development of Hindu families, not just at the time of birth, death or marriage. Matrimonial Initiative- Through this initiative we want to facilitate marriage of our young adults within the community and educate them the responsibilities that go with the marriage. Government & Media Relations Initiative- Through this Initiative we want India to adopt a policy that will allow admission to schools and colleges to only the deserving students, and abolish the quota raj in the admission policy and also employment. Kashmir Initiative- Through this Initiative we want the safe return of Kashmiri Hindus to their homes in Kashmir, and ensure their safety and security. We believe this will ensure territorial integrity of India and world peace. Organizational Initiative- Through this initiative we give WBF a shape that is responsive to the needs of the community. The most immediate task under this Initiative is a new constitution that will preserve an umbrella structure with individual membership. Global Convention Initiative Through this Initiative we put together conventions throughout the world that provide us an opportunity to meet and discuss issues under one roof with no fear of reprisals. The next world meet is scheduled for December 20, 2007, in Mauritius. Conv 06: Veda Recital by Dr. Yegnasubramanian and his group From: WBF 18 Fitzgerald Lane, Columbus, NJ 08022, USA. inside... Conv 06 p 3-4 Youth impressions p 5-6 Speeches p 7, 8, 11

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