Autobiography - Mr M R Sivaraman_ IAS (Retd).pdf <https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RaCU-NAxigkQaQ4eLfxEb64xMK0-kX6K/view?usp=drive_web>
On Sun, 22 Feb 2026 at 12:00, APS Mani <[email protected]> wrote: > Waiting to see your autobiography posted in this group, Sir. > > APS Mani > > On Sun, Feb 22, 2026 at 8:24 AM Madras Sivaraman < > [email protected]> wrote: > >> I have interacted with Dr.Sharma several when he was president of India >> .He was a man of great integrity and asked me not to heed to anyone who >> came to me for anything quoting his name. >> I have also narrated another incident in my autobiography.I can post my >> autobiography on this site if you are interested.It is free to read. >> >> On Fri, 20 Feb, 2026, 18:51 Rajaram Krishnamurthy, <[email protected]> >> wrote: >> >>> welcome sir KR >>> >>> On Fri, 20 Feb 2026 at 14:42, APS Mani <[email protected]> wrote: >>> >>>> Though a long post, it is brilliant! Mani >>>> >>>> On Fri, Feb 20, 2026 at 1:24 PM Rajaram Krishnamurthy < >>>> [email protected]> wrote: >>>> >>>>> The meaning of the name Vasiṣṭha is given by Vasiṣṭha himself as >>>>> follows:— >>>>> >>>>> I am known as Vasiṣṭha for two reasons. I am 'Vasumān >>>>> <https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/vasuman#purana>'. The Śrutis >>>>> <https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/shruti#purana> say that Air, >>>>> Earth etc. are Vasus >>>>> <https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/vasu#purana>. I have become >>>>> Vasiṣṭha because I have brought under control the Vasus beginning with >>>>> Aṇimā <https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/anima#purana> (the power >>>>> of reducing the body to an atom). See what Arundhatī herself says, about >>>>> the meaning of the name Arundhatī. >>>>> >>>>> "I consider mountains, earth and heaven as elements in which I live, >>>>> only after considering my husband as the element in which I live. My >>>>> husband is the first and foremost element in my life. Moreover I conform >>>>> (anurodha) with the mind of my husband. So know me as Arundhatī." >>>>> >>>>> Arundhati, wife of Sage Vasishta, is famous for her chastity, piety >>>>> and single-minded devotion for her husband. Due to her devoutness and >>>>> faithfulness, she became a star in the sky known as Arundhati Nakshatra. >>>>> Arundhati was the daughter of Kardama Prajapati and Devahuti. >>>>> >>>>> Arundhati’s birth and life are mentioned in various Hindu scriptures. >>>>> The birth of Arundhati is found in the Shiva Purana and Bhagavata >>>>> PuranaThe >>>>> rivalry between Vishvamitra and Vasishtha which leads to the death of her >>>>> hundred sons is described in the Balakanda of Valmiki’s Ramayana. The >>>>> Mahabharata and several Brahmana works describe her sons, including >>>>> Shakti, >>>>> and grandson Parashara. Her role in pleading Shiva to marry Parvati is >>>>> described in the sixth canto of Kumarasambhava of Kalidasa. >>>>> As per the Bhagavata Purana, Arundhati is the eighth among the nine >>>>> daughters of Kardama and Devahuti. She is the grandmother of >>>>> Parashara and the great-grandmother of Vyasa. The Shiva Purana >>>>> describes her as being Sandhya, the mind-born daughter of Brahma, in a >>>>> previous birth. On instruction of Vasishtha, Sandhya pleased Shiva by >>>>> penance in order to purify herself from passion, and Shiva asked her to >>>>> jump into Medhatithi’s fire. She was then born as Medhatithi’s >>>>> daughter and married Vasishtha. Some other Puranas describe her as >>>>> the daughter of Kashyapa and sister of Narada and Parvata, and she was >>>>> offered in marriage to Vasishtha by Narada. >>>>> The Mahabharata describes Arundhati as an ascetic who used to give >>>>> discourses to even the seven sages. The wife of Agni, Svaha, could >>>>> therefore assume the form of the wives of the other six seers amongst >>>>> Saptarshi but not that of Arundhati. The epic also narrates how once she >>>>> pleased Shiva when it did not rain for 12 years and the seven seers were >>>>> suffering without roots and fruits. Her chastity and service to her >>>>> husband >>>>> is mentioned as unparalleled in the Mahabharata. >>>>> As per the Valmiki Ramayana, she bore a hundred sons, who were all >>>>> cursed to die by Vishvamitra. She then bore a son named Shakti and later >>>>> another one named Suyagya, who studied with Rama at Vasishtha’s hermitage. >>>>> Some sources say she had eight sons including Shakti and Chitraketu. >>>>> In traditional Indian astronomy, pair of Mizar and Alcor in >>>>> constellation Ursa Major is known as Vasishtha and Arundhati >>>>> Arundhati is identified with the morning star and with the star Alcor, >>>>> which forms a double star with Mizar (identified as Vasishtha Maharshi) in >>>>> Ursa Major. Arundhati, though the wife of one of the seven seers, is >>>>> accorded the same status as the seven seers and is worshipped with them as >>>>> such. In Vedic and Puranic literature, she is regarded as the epitome of >>>>> chastity, conjugal bliss and wifely devotion. In post-Puranic epic >>>>> poems , she has been described as “chaste and revered” and with a >>>>> character >>>>> that is “unblemished, inspiring and worthy of imitation”. In the Hindu >>>>> culture, there are several beliefs, practices and traditions centred on >>>>> Arundhati including a ritual in the marriage ceremony after the Saptapadi, >>>>> a fast, a belief about imminent death, and a maxim. >>>>> Since the Arundhati star is faintly visible, there is a belief that >>>>> when someone is near death, they can not see the Arundhati star Due to its >>>>> faintness, the Arundhati used to be shown in steps, first showing the >>>>> brighter stars, and then relative to that the faint Arundhati star is >>>>> directed. The maxim in Sanskrit called the Arundhatī darśananyāyaḥ >>>>> (IAST:), used in the meaning of inferring the unknown from that which is >>>>> known, is named after Arundhati. >>>>> >>>>> Arundhati. >>>>> She was one of the nine daughters of Kardama Prajapati and his wife >>>>> Devahuti. Arundhati is the wife of the sage Vashistha, one of the seven >>>>> sages (Saptarshi) who are identified with the Ursa Major. She is >>>>> identified >>>>> with the morning star and also with the star Alcor which forms a double >>>>> star with Mizar (identified as Vashista Maharshi) in Ursa Major. >>>>> Arundhati, >>>>> though the wife of one of the seven seers, is accorded the same status as >>>>> the seven seers and is worshipped with them as such. In the Vedic and >>>>> Puranic literature, she is regarded as the epitome of chastity, conjugal >>>>> bliss and wifely devotion. In post-Puranic epic poems in Sanskrit and >>>>> Hindi, she has been described as “chaste and revered” and with a character >>>>> that is “unblemished, inspiring and worthy of imitation”. In the Hindu >>>>> culture, there are several beliefs, practices and traditions centred on >>>>> Arundhati including a ritual in the marriage ceremony after the Saptapadi, >>>>> a fast, a belief about imminent death, and a maxim. >>>>> During the creation of the universe, Lord Brahma >>>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2016/12/02/brahma/> created various >>>>> beings to assist him with his creation and to populate the universe. >>>>> Brahma >>>>> created ten Manasputras (mind-born sons): Marichi, Atri >>>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2017/07/06/atri/>, Pulahu, Pulastya, >>>>> Angiras, Kratu, Narada, Daksha >>>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2019/01/03/daksha/>, Bhrigu >>>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2019/07/01/bhrigu/>, and Vashishta. >>>>> Each of these sons was born from a different part of Brahma’s body. >>>>> Vashishta was created from the *prana* (breath) of Lord Brahma. After >>>>> that, a beautiful lady sprung from Brahma’s mind. On seeing her, >>>>> Vashishta, >>>>> his 9 brothers, and his father all got up, enamored by the angelic woman. >>>>> However, at that moment, another man sprung from Brahma’s mind. Vashishta >>>>> and the other Manasputras named the man as Kama, the god of love >>>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2019/01/02/kama/>, and the woman was >>>>> named Sandhya. >>>>> >>>>> After Brahma had finished his creation, Kama decided to test his >>>>> powers of love. He shot his arrows of love at Brahma, the Manasputras, and >>>>> Sandhya. Soon, they started frequently staring at Sandhya. Brahma, >>>>> Vashishta, and his nine brothers were completely overpowered by lust. >>>>> Sandhya too started indicating her feelings from them with occasional >>>>> glances. On seeing his brothers and father attracted to Sandhya, Dharma >>>>> (another son of Brahma) prayed to Lord Shiva >>>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2016/08/17/shiva/> for help. Shiva >>>>> appeared there and scolded Brahma and his sons for their indecent >>>>> behavior. >>>>> Out of embarrassment for their actions, Vashishta and the others began >>>>> sweating. From their sweat, different Pitrs (ancestors) were born. From >>>>> Vashishta’s sweat, the Kalin class of Pitrs were born. Brahma was enraged >>>>> at Kama and cursed him, but then blessed him. After this incident, >>>>> Vashishta and the others went to their respective abodes. >>>>> >>>>> *The Story of Vashishta and Sandhya* >>>>> >>>>> *This story is in the Shiva Purana, Rudra Samhita, Sati Khanda, >>>>> Chapters 5-7* >>>>> >>>>> Meanwhile, Sandhya too came out her trance and felt severely guilty >>>>> for her actions. She decided that she would engage in penance to atone for >>>>> her sins, and then she would kill herself. Sandhya went to the >>>>> Chandrabhaga >>>>> Mountain and began austere penance. Soon, Brahma came to know of Sandhya’s >>>>> plan to end her life. Brahma approached Vashishta and said, “My son, >>>>> Sandhya is currently performing penance at Chandrabhaga. She wishes to >>>>> atone for her sins after what happened with Kama. Please go and teach her >>>>> how to properly perform penance.” >>>>> >>>>> Vashishta obeyed his father and journeyed to the Chandrabhaga >>>>> Mountain. He assumed a disguise and respectfully approached Sandhya, who >>>>> was immersed in penance. Sandhya opened her eyes and addressed the sage, >>>>> asking for instruction on how to please Shiva. Vashishta taught her the >>>>> mantra to propitiate Shiva, demonstrated the various rites of penance, and >>>>> then vanished from the spot. Thus, Sandhya began her penance and it >>>>> continued for four Yugas. Finally, Shiva appeared before her, saying, “I >>>>> am >>>>> very pleased with your penance. You can chose whichever boon you desire.” >>>>> >>>>> *Sandhya’s Boons* >>>>> >>>>> Sandhya said, “For my first boon, I desire that no living being is >>>>> born with lust. This is what happened to me, and I don’t want that to >>>>> happen again. For my second boon, I desire that no woman becomes more >>>>> famous than me! Let me have the greatest husband, and any other man that >>>>> looks at me lustfully will become weak” >>>>> >>>>> “From now on, there will be four stages of life: infancy, childhood, >>>>> youth, and old age. Humans can only become lustful after the childhood >>>>> stage. They cannot be lustful at birth. As per your second wish, you will >>>>> have a famous husband who will live for seven Kalpas. I know that you want >>>>> to kill yourself after obtaining these boons. You must enter the fire at >>>>> the *yagna* of Medhatithi Rishi. That way, you will become his >>>>> daughter in your next birth. If you have chosen your husband for your next >>>>> birth, make sure to remember him before you enter the fire,” Shiva said >>>>> and >>>>> then vanished. As per Shiva’s instructions, Sandhya reached Medhatithi’s >>>>> *yagna* and entered the fire. As she immolated herself, *she >>>>> remembered Vashishta and wished that he become her husband*. >>>>> >>>>> *Vashishta Marries Arundhati* >>>>> >>>>> When Medhatithi’s long sacrifice finally concluded, an infant girl >>>>> emerged from the sacrificial fire. Medhatithi was overjoyed and adopted >>>>> the >>>>> girl as his daughter, naming her *Arundhati*, which means “one who >>>>> does not hinder sacred rites”. >>>>> >>>>> The years passed, and Arundhati grew up under her father’s care to >>>>> become a beautiful young woman. One day, Vashishta encountered Arundhati >>>>> in >>>>> the forest. He instantly fell in love with her, and she fell for him as >>>>> well. They expressed their feelings for each other, and they were married >>>>> in a grand ceremony. Vashishta and Arundhati had seven sons named >>>>> Chitraketu, Purochis, Viracha, Mitra, Ulbana, Vasubhrdyana, and Dyumana. >>>>> >>>>> *Daksha Yagna* >>>>> >>>>> Daksha <https://glorioushinduism.com/2019/01/03/daksha/> conducted a >>>>> grand yagna and invited all of the devas, rishis, and other important >>>>> people in the Universe. Among the guests were Vashishta and Arundhati. >>>>> However, because of Daksha and Shiva’s enmity, Shiva and Sati >>>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2018/05/25/sati/> were not invited to >>>>> the yagna. Sati was enraged and she went to the yagna site, committing >>>>> suicide in the sacrificial fire. Hearing about this, a furious Shiva >>>>> created the monster spirits Virabhadra and Mahakali from his matted hair. >>>>> Virabhadra and Kali ravaged the yagna and killed many of its guests. >>>>> However, Vashishta and Arundhati were spared from the wrath of the >>>>> spirits. >>>>> Later, after the yagna was destroyed, Shiva appeared and said that >>>>> Vashishta, Atri, Pulastya, Angiras, Pulahu, Kratu, Bhrigu, and Marichi >>>>> would be reborn in Chakshusha Manvatara. >>>>> >>>>> *Brahmayagna: Vashishta Reborn* >>>>> >>>>> *This story is in the Brahmanda Purana, Section 3, Chapter 1* >>>>> >>>>> At the end of the first Manvantara (Swayambhava Manvantara), >>>>> Vashishta, Atri, Pulastya, Angiras, Pulahu, Kratu, Bhrigu, and Marichi >>>>> passed away. They were transported to Janaloka >>>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2016/10/10/janaloka/>, the heavenly >>>>> realm of sages. Vashishta and the others remained at Janaloka for many >>>>> Manvataras. Finally, at the end of the Chakshusha Manvantara, Varuna >>>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2015/09/20/varuna/> performed a massive >>>>> “Brahmayagna”. He invited all of the eminent devas and rishis. During the >>>>> yagna, Brahma fell in love with some damsels, causing his semen to be >>>>> discharged. Brahma put it in the sacrificial fire, and one by one, the >>>>> eight sages were reborn from the fire. Lord Shiva’s words had come true! >>>>> >>>>> *Vashishta and Nimi* >>>>> >>>>> *This story is in the Devi Bhagavata Purana, Book 6, Chapter 14* >>>>> >>>>> Vashishta again grew up and became a renowned sage across >>>>> Bharatvarsha. He married Aksamala, an incarnation of Arundhati. King Nimi, >>>>> the ruler of Videha, appointed Vashishta as his Guru and royal priest. >>>>> Nimi >>>>> was a prosperous king loved by his subjects. One day, Nimi decided to >>>>> perform a 5000-year long yagna to increase his fame. He invited all of the >>>>> famous Brahmins and sages. Nimi then approached Vashishta and said, “I am >>>>> performing a yagna, Guru. Since you are my Guru, please perform this yagna >>>>> me. It will last five thousand years, and I will please Ambika Devi!” >>>>> However, Vashishta responded, “Indra >>>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2015/09/19/indra/> is also performing a >>>>> yagna right now for five hundred years. He has already asked me to perform >>>>> his yagna. You will have to wait until I finish Indra’s yagna. Wait until >>>>> then. After I finish, I will come here.” >>>>> >>>>> King Nimi grew agitated. He had already invited all of the guests, and >>>>> he made all of the preparations and arrangements. How could he delay the >>>>> yagna by 500 years! He implored Vashishta to forget about Indra’s yagna >>>>> and >>>>> do his yagna instead. However, Vashishta refused and left the palace. He >>>>> journeyed to Swarga >>>>> <https://glorioushinduism.com/2016/10/15/swargaloka/> and began >>>>> Indra’s yagna. Meanwhile, instead of waiting, Nimi decided to start the >>>>> yagna with Gautama Rishi instead of Vashishta. >>>>> >>>>> *Vashishta Loses his Body* >>>>> >>>>> After five hundred years, Vashishta completed Indra’s yagna and >>>>> immediately went to Nimi’s palace. However, when he entered the palace >>>>> grounds, he saw the yagna being performed by someone else. Vashishta was >>>>> enraged by the king’s behavior. He confronted Nimi and cursed, “Even >>>>> though >>>>> I am your Guru, you abandoned me and appointed somebody else for your >>>>> yagna! I curse you that your body will be destroyed today!” >>>>> >>>>> Hearing Vashishta’s words, Nimi stated, “You are my Yajamana, and it >>>>> is your duty as a Brahmin to perform my yagna for me. Yet, you chose >>>>> somebody else over me. And now you are blaming me for your sins. You are >>>>> cursing me when I have done nothing wrong. Since you have cursed me for >>>>> nothing, I curse you that your body will be destroyed!” >>>>> >>>>> Vashishta didn’t know what to do. In a couple of hours, he would >>>>> become bodiless. Only his soul would remain. A desperate Vashishta >>>>> approached his father Brahma for help. He narrated what had happened >>>>> between him and King Nimi, and asked for help. Brahma responded, “Go enter >>>>> the bodies of Mitra <https://glorioushinduism.com/2016/07/16/mitra/> >>>>> and Varuna <https://glorioushinduism.com/2015/09/20/varuna/>. Stay >>>>> there, and soon, you will be reborn.” Vashishta bowed down and went to >>>>> Varunaloka. His body soon left him and his soul entered the bodies of >>>>> Mitra >>>>> and Varuna. >>>>> >>>>> *Vashishta’s Third Birth* >>>>> >>>>> Once, the heavenly Apsara Urvashi went to Varunaloka with her friends. >>>>> When Mitra and Varuna saw Urvashi, they immediately fell for her. They >>>>> requested, “Seeing your beauty and grace, we have fallen in love with you. >>>>> Please stay here with us.” Urvashi agreed to live with them. As Urvashi >>>>> stayed with Mitra and Varuna, they became excited and their semen dropped >>>>> in an uncovered jar. Because of this, two children were born. >>>>> >>>>> The first was Agastya, who became a famous ascetic and devoted his >>>>> life to penance. The second was Vashishta, who was adopted by King >>>>> Ikshvaku. King Ikshvaku knew that the child was none other than Vashishta, >>>>> so he raised him with love and care. Vashishta grew up for the third >>>>> and final time. He once again became very learned and became the family >>>>> priest of the solar dynasty. He again married Arundhati, who had been >>>>> reborn as the daughter of Kashyapa Rishi and the sister of Narada and >>>>> Parvata. They had one hundred sons, the oldest of whom was Shakti Rishi. >>>>> >>>>> In Hindu tradition, *Vasistha and Arundhati* are the ultimate symbols >>>>> of *marital harmony, equality, and spiritual partnership*. Their >>>>> symbolism is rooted in both mythology and unique astronomical >>>>> observations. >>>>> >>>>> [image: Vashishtha & Arundhati: The Twin Stars That Teach Us More ...] >>>>> >>>>> *1. Marital Equality (The Binary Star System)* >>>>> >>>>> Unlike most binary star systems where one star remains stationary >>>>> while the other revolves around it, *Mizar (Vasistha)* and *Alcor >>>>> (Arundhati)* revolve around each other in synchrony. >>>>> >>>>> - *Symbolism*: This represents a marriage where neither partner >>>>> dominates the other. It signifies that husband and wife are equal >>>>> partners >>>>> who support and move in sync with one another to reach a common goal. >>>>> >>>>> *2. The Marriage Ritual (Arundhati Darshana)* >>>>> >>>>> During many Hindu wedding ceremonies, particularly in South Indian >>>>> traditions, the groom shows the bride these stars in the northern sky. >>>>> >>>>> - *Significance*: The couple prays to be as steady, loyal, and >>>>> inseparable as the twin stars. >>>>> - *Arundhati-darshana-nyaya*: This is also a famous Sanskrit maxim >>>>> (the "Method of pointing out Arundhati") used to explain a complex or >>>>> unknown concept by first pointing out something visible and known (the >>>>> brighter star, Vasistha) before guiding the observer to the subtler, >>>>> fainter truth (the smaller star, Arundhati). >>>>> >>>>> *3. Virtue and Fidelity* >>>>> >>>>> Arundhati is revered as the epitome of *chastity (Pativratatva)* and >>>>> devotion. >>>>> >>>>> - *Asceticism*: Legend says she performed severe penances and was >>>>> the only one among the wives of the Saptarishis whose devotion was so >>>>> pure >>>>> that she remained by her husband's side, eventually becoming a star >>>>> alongside him. >>>>> - *Spiritual Strength*: Her name itself implies "one who does not >>>>> obstruct," symbolising her role in supporting her husband’s >>>>> *Dharma* (duty) without losing her own spiritual identity. >>>>> >>>>> *4. Astronomy Meets Spirituality * >>>>> >>>>> - *Ursa Major*: The stars are located in the *Saptarshi Mandala* (Big >>>>> Dipper). >>>>> - *Physical Distance*: Interestingly, Vasistha is approximately 78 >>>>> light-years away, while Arundhati is about 81 light-years away. Despite >>>>> this distance, they are perceived as an inseparable pair, reflecting >>>>> how >>>>> physical proximity matters less than spiritual alignment. >>>>> >>>>> (i) Vasiṣṭha changed Ilā a woman, into a man. (For details see under >>>>> Ilā I). >>>>> >>>>> (ii) Wives and children. Seven sons Rajas, Gotra, Ūrdhvabāhu, Savana, >>>>> Anagha, Sutapas and Śukra, were born to Vasiṣṭha by his wife Ūrjā. These >>>>> seven pure and just persons were the Saptarṣis (seven hermits) in the >>>>> first >>>>> Manvantara. (Viṣṇu Purāṇa, Aṃśa I, Chapter 10). >>>>> >>>>> (Rāja, Gātra, Ūrdhvabāhu Savana, Alaghu, Śukra (and Sutapas are the >>>>> names given in Agni Purāṇa, Chapter 20, of the sons of Vasiṣṭha born by >>>>> his >>>>> wife Ūrjā). >>>>> >>>>> (iii) Vasiṣṭha and emperor Nimi. (See under Nimi) >>>>> >>>>> (iv) The Ṛgveda of Vasiṣṭha. There are ten Maṇḍalas in Ṛgveda, of >>>>> which the seventh Maṇḍala was composed by the sages of Vasiṣṭha’s >>>>> hermitage. >>>>> >>>>> (v) Cursing Rāvaṇa. Once Rāvaṇa asked Vasiṣṭha to come as his teacher >>>>> and teach him the Vedas and the other scriptures. Vasiṣṭha did not comply >>>>> with his request. The angry Rāvaṇa got Vasiṣṭha a captive. But the King >>>>> Kuvalayāśva of the Solar dynasty, liberated Vasiṣṭha from captivity. The >>>>> rescued Vasiṣṭha cursed Rāvaṇa. You and your family will be exterminated >>>>> by >>>>> those born of the Solar dynasty." (Kamba Rāmāyaṇa, Yuddha Kāṇḍa). >>>>> >>>>> (vi) Vasiṣṭha jumped into the river. See under Adṛśyantī. >>>>> >>>>> (vii) In uniting Tapatī and Saṃvaraṇa Vasiṣṭha played a very prominent >>>>> part. (See under Tapatī). >>>>> >>>>> (viii) It was Vasiṣṭha who put a stop to the sacrifice for the >>>>> extermination of the Rākṣasas (giants) performed by Parāśara. (See under >>>>> Parāśara). >>>>> >>>>> (ix) Vasiṣṭha and Mucukunda. See under Mucukunda. >>>>> >>>>> (x) Vasiṣṭha told Śrī Rāma the history of the dynasty of Ikṣvāku. >>>>> (Vālmīki Rāmāyaṇa Bāla Kāṇḍa, Sarga 73). >>>>> >>>>> (xi) The hermitage of Vasiṣṭha was situated in the valley of mount >>>>> Mahāmeru. (Mahābhārata, Ādi Parva, Chapter 29, Stanza 6). >>>>> >>>>> (xii) The cow of Vasiṣṭha was stolen by the eight Vasus See under >>>>> Aṣṭavasus. >>>>> >>>>> (xiii) Vasiṣṭha was the teacher of Bhīṣma. (Mahābhārata Ādi Parva, >>>>> Chapter 103, Stanza 45). >>>>> >>>>> (xiv) Vasiṣṭha participated in the Birth festival of Arjuna. >>>>> (Mahābhārata Ādi Parva, Chapter 122, Stanza 51). >>>>> >>>>> (xv) Vasiṣṭha tried to commit suicide. (See under Adṛśyantī). >>>>> >>>>> (xvi) Vasiṣṭha shone in the assembly of Brahmā. (M.B Sabhā Parva, >>>>> Chapter 11, Stanza 19). >>>>> >>>>> (xvii) In the Bhārata-battle an effort was made by Vasiṣṭha to >>>>> dissuade Droṇa from the battle But it was in vain. (Mahābhārata Droṇa >>>>> Parva, Chapter 190, Stanza 33). >>>>> >>>>> (xviii) Vasiṣṭha was one of the hermits who came to visit Bhīṣma on >>>>> his bed of arrows. (Śānti Parva, Chapter 47, Stanza 7). >>>>> >>>>> (xix)Once rain failed in the world and creatures became miserable. At >>>>> that time Vasiṣṭha fed the creatures. (Mahābhārata Anuśāsana Parva, >>>>> Chapter >>>>> 137). >>>>> >>>>> (xx) Once Indra lost the Devaloka (the world of the Devas) and he >>>>> became gloomy and miserable. Vasiṣṭha went to him and consoled him. >>>>> (Mahābhārata Śānti Parva, Chapter 291, Stanza 91). >>>>> >>>>> (xxi) Vasiṣṭha was one of the hermits who were Brahmin tribal workers. >>>>> (Mahābhārata Śānti Parva, Chapter 296, Stanza 17). >>>>> >>>>> (xxii) Once Vasiṣṭha imparted knowledge to King Janaka. This >>>>> exhortation is given in Mahābhārata, (Śāntī Parva, six chapters from 302). >>>>> >>>>> (xxiii) Vasiṣṭha was one of the twentyone Prajāpatis. (Mahābhārata >>>>> Śānti Parva, Chapter 334, Stanza 36). >>>>> >>>>> (xxiv) Vasiṣṭha is considered to be one of the Citraśikhaṇḍīs >>>>> (Saptarṣis—seven hermits) (See under Citraśikhaṇḍīs). >>>>> >>>>> (xxv) Once Vasiṣṭha talked about Puruṣārthas (the objects of life) to >>>>> Brahmā. (Mahābhārata Anuśāsana Parva, Chapter 6). >>>>> >>>>> (xxvi) Vasiṣṭha talked to Saudāsa about giving cows as alms. >>>>> (Mahābhārata Anuśāsana Parva, Chapter 78, Stanza 5). >>>>> >>>>> (xxvii) On another occasion Vasiṣṭha gave advice to Paraśurāma and >>>>> talked about the origin of Gold. (Mahābhārata Anuśāsana Parva, Chapter 84, >>>>> Stanza 44). >>>>> >>>>> (xxviii) Vasiṣṭha once told Arundhatī how weakness was caused. >>>>> (Mahābhārata Anuśāsana Parva, Chapter 93, Stanza 31). >>>>> >>>>> (xxix) Vasiṣṭha avowed that he was not one of them who had stolen the >>>>> lotus flowers of Agastya. (Anuśāsana Parva, Chapter 23, Stanza 114). >>>>> >>>>> (xxx) Āpava, Arundhatīpati, Brahmarṣi, Devarṣi, Hairaṇyagarbha, >>>>> Maitrāvaruṇi, Vāruṇi, and such other words are used as synonyms of >>>>> Vasiṣṭha, in the Mahābhārata. >>>>> >>>>> K RAJARAM IRS 20226 >>>>> >>>>> On Fri, 20 Feb 2026 at 10:32, 'gopala krishnan' via Thatha_Patty < >>>>> [email protected]> wrote: >>>>> >>>>>> *SAGE VASISTHA-Part 5** –Final part* >>>>>> >>>>>> Dear friends, >>>>>> >>>>>> This posting about sage VASISTHA is compiled from Google search by >>>>>> asking many questions curious to me and posted in my style which is >>>>>> desired >>>>>> by a few members *than as QA posting.* Information relevant from >>>>>> Wikipedia is also included. >>>>>> >>>>>> *This posting is least intended to all knowing and criticizing and >>>>>> fault finding members.* >>>>>> >>>>>> Hope the postings will be interesting and informative to many of my >>>>>> friends. Since the information is more it is posted in parts. >>>>>> >>>>>> I have covered most of the incidents related to sage Vasistha, except >>>>>> about his 100 sons death, failing of his attempts to commit suicide, his >>>>>> lineage, his immortality and some smaller points. >>>>>> >>>>>> *This is FIFTH AND final part of the posting about Sage >>>>>> Vasistha. * >>>>>> >>>>>> Gopalakrishnan 20-02-2026 >>>>>> >>>>>> Death of sons >>>>>> >>>>>> According to Hindu mythology, specifically in the Mahabharata and >>>>>> Purāṇas, Sage Vasishta attempted suicide due to overwhelming, unbearable >>>>>> grief after all his sons were killed by King *Kalmashapada,* who was >>>>>> *under >>>>>> the influence of a demon instigated by Sage Vishwamitra. * >>>>>> >>>>>> Even as a great sage who had mastered his senses, the utter >>>>>> destruction of his entire lineage left him feeling that his life had lost >>>>>> all purpose, driving him to despair. >>>>>> >>>>>> Key Reasons for the Suicide Attempt: >>>>>> >>>>>> Destruction of His Sons: Vishwamitra, in his extreme jealousy, >>>>>> instigated a demon to possess King Kalmashapada, *causing him to >>>>>> kill and devour all one hundred of Vasishta's sons, including his eldest >>>>>> son, Shakti.* >>>>>> >>>>>> Intense Personal Grief: The profound emotional pain caused by the >>>>>> loss of his family pushed the saint beyond his limit of endurance. >>>>>> >>>>>> Refusal to Use Powers for Revenge: While Vasishta had the immense >>>>>> spiritual power (Brahmatejas) *to kill Vishwamitra or the king, he >>>>>> had taken a vow of non-violence (Ahimsa) and non-retaliation*, >>>>>> leaving him with no way to channel his anger, which turned inward as >>>>>> despair. >>>>>> >>>>>> *Why He Failed (The Turning Point):* >>>>>> >>>>>> Vasishta tried to end his life by throwing himself into a fire, >>>>>> jumping off a cliff, and tying himself with heavy rocks to drown in the >>>>>> river (later known as the Beas or Vipasha). However, nature protected >>>>>> him: >>>>>> >>>>>> The fire would not burn him.The river recognized his holiness and >>>>>> broke into hundreds of shallow channels to avoid drowning him. >>>>>> >>>>>> *He finally stopped his attempts when he heard the voice of his >>>>>> daughter-in-law, Adrisyanti, reciting the Vedas.* >>>>>> >>>>>> He learned she was pregnant with his grandson, *Parashara*, who was >>>>>> reciting the Vedas from the womb. Realizing there was still a descendant >>>>>> to >>>>>> carry on his line, he found the strength to live again. >>>>>> >>>>>> Sage Vasistha immortal >>>>>> >>>>>> Here is how and when the key, often-cited death experiences of Sage >>>>>> Vasistha occurred: >>>>>> >>>>>> 1. The Episode of Suicide Attempts (Post-Death of His Children) >>>>>> >>>>>> The most commonly cited "death" story involves profound grief when >>>>>> Sage Vishwamitra, out of jealousy, caused a demon to kill all 100 of >>>>>> Vasistha’s sons. >>>>>> >>>>>> How: Overcome by grief, Vasistha tried to commit suicide multiple >>>>>> times: >>>>>> >>>>>> He jumped from a high mountain peak, but the rocks became as soft as >>>>>> cotton. >>>>>> >>>>>> He threw himself into a raging river (identified as the River >>>>>> Vipasha/Beas), but the river refused to drown him and instead washed him >>>>>> ashore, untying the ropes with which he had bound himself. >>>>>> >>>>>> Result: All his attempts to kill himself were unsuccessful, and he >>>>>> eventually accepted his sorrow and continued his life as a sage. >>>>>> >>>>>> 2. Death by Curse Exchange with King Nimi >>>>>> >>>>>> In another account, Vasistha died due to a mutual curse between him >>>>>> and his disciple, King Nimi. >>>>>> >>>>>> How: Vasistha went to perform a sacrifice for King Indra, causing a >>>>>> delay in his duty to King Nimi. *Nimi appointed another priest.* >>>>>> Enraged, Vasistha cursed Nimi to lose his body (die). Nimi, in turn, >>>>>> cursed >>>>>> Vasistha with the same fate. >>>>>> >>>>>> Result: Vasistha’s soul departed his body and merged into the >>>>>> elements (Varuna and Mitra). He was later reborn from them when they saw >>>>>> the apsara Urvashi. >>>>>> >>>>>> *End of the First Manvantara* >>>>>> >>>>>> The Puranas state that at the end of the first Manvantara >>>>>> (Swayambhava Manvantara), Vasistha, along with other Saptarishis (Atri, >>>>>> Pulastya, etc.), passed away and was transported to a higher realm >>>>>> (Janaloka). >>>>>> >>>>>> *Key Context on Vasistha’s "Death"* >>>>>> >>>>>> Immortal Status: Despite these incidents, Vasistha is considered a >>>>>> Saptarishi (one of the seven great sages) and *an immortal who >>>>>> appears in different eras, including the Ramayana and Mahabharata.* >>>>>> >>>>>> The Yoga Vasistha: The text Yoga Vasistha portrays him as an >>>>>> enlightened master who guides Lord Rama, often speaking on the transient >>>>>> nature of life, death, and the body. >>>>>> >>>>>> Based on the narratives in the Mahabharata and Ramayana, the >>>>>> statement that Vasistha’s sons were not up to his expectations is >>>>>> generally considered incorrect in terms of their character or ability. >>>>>> Instead, they were considered noble, virtuous, and capable—often >>>>>> described >>>>>> as equal to Vasistha himself in energy. >>>>>> >>>>>> However, the misconception may arise from the tragic circumstances >>>>>> surrounding their death, where they succumbed to anger, leading to >>>>>> their demise. >>>>>> >>>>>> Key Aspects of Vasistha’s Sons >>>>>> >>>>>> Virtuous and Capable: Vasistha took great pride in his sons, >>>>>> considering them capable, wise, and helpful in his duties. >>>>>> >>>>>> Their Death: The hundred sons of Vasistha (with Shakti being the >>>>>> eldest) did not die because they failed to meet his moral or intellectual >>>>>> standards. They were killed as a result of a deep, bitter rivalry >>>>>> between Sage Vasistha and Sage Vishwamitra. >>>>>> >>>>>> The Incident: Vishwamitra, seeking to humiliate Vasistha, instigated >>>>>> a demon to enter the body of King Kalmashapada. In this state, the >>>>>> king killed and ate all of Vasistha's sons. >>>>>> >>>>>> The Role of Anger: While noble, they were not immune to human >>>>>> emotions. The eldest son, Shakti, became furious with King >>>>>> Kalmashapada for obstructing his path and cursed the king to become a >>>>>> demon, which ultimately led to the destruction of all his brothers and >>>>>> himself. >>>>>> >>>>>> The Lineage Continues >>>>>> >>>>>> Despite the destruction of his sons, Vasistha’s lineage did not end. >>>>>> *Vasistha’s >>>>>> daughter-in-law, Adrisyanti (widow of Shakti), was pregnant with >>>>>> Parashara*, >>>>>> who went on to become a great sage and eventually the father of Veda >>>>>> Vyasa. >>>>>> >>>>>> In summary, Vasistha's sons were highly regarded, but they were >>>>>> victims of a tragic, intense conflict between two great sages, rather >>>>>> than >>>>>> being failures in their father's eye >>>>>> >>>>>> Who was sage Parasara? >>>>>> >>>>>> *Sage Parasara was the grand son of sage Vasistha, through his son >>>>>> Sakthi.* >>>>>> >>>>>> *Sage Veda Vyasa* >>>>>> >>>>>> *Sage Veda Vysa was his great grandson of sage Vasistha.* >>>>>> >>>>>> *Vasistha and Arundhati elevated as stars* >>>>>> >>>>>> Based on Hindu mythology and scriptures, Vashisht and Arundhati are >>>>>> considered immortal in spirit and were *elevated to the status of >>>>>> stars in the nigh*t sky. >>>>>> >>>>>> They are not merely considered dead, but are believed to have >>>>>> attained a celestial, eternal status due to their immense virtue and >>>>>> devotion. >>>>>> >>>>>> *Key details regarding their status:* >>>>>> >>>>>> Star Identification: In Indian astronomy and mythology, Sage >>>>>> Vashisht is identified with the star Mizar and his wife Arundhati with >>>>>> the >>>>>> star Alcor, located in the Saptarishi constellation (Ursa Major/Big >>>>>> Dipper). >>>>>> >>>>>> Divine Immortality: >>>>>> >>>>>> Due to Arundhati's exceptional loyalty and purity, the gods blessed >>>>>> them with immortality. Unlike other sages who might only be recognized >>>>>> by a >>>>>> single star, Arundhati is specially accorded the status of being a >>>>>> star alongside her husband, often viewed together by newlyweds to >>>>>> symbolize >>>>>> marital harmony. >>>>>> >>>>>> Symbolism in Marriage: >>>>>> >>>>>> They are considered the "ideal couple" in Hindu tradition, and >>>>>> observing the Arundhati-Vashisht star pair during weddings is a ritual >>>>>> meant to bring fidelity and trust to the new marriage. >>>>>> >>>>>> Inseparable Nature: >>>>>> >>>>>> According to some interpretations, when other, less devoted stars >>>>>> were absorbed, Arundhati remained, symbolizing that she and Vashisht >>>>>> do not get extinguished during the cyclical destruction of the world. >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> *Sage vasistha in Mahabharatha* >>>>>> >>>>>> Philosophical Teachings: >>>>>> >>>>>> Vashistha's teachings on morality, dharma, and the futility of anger >>>>>> are, at times, referred to in the text, *particularly in the >>>>>> Anushasana Parva. * >>>>>> >>>>>> * In the Context of Puranas (Multiple Births)* >>>>>> >>>>>> According to the Puranic Encyclopedia, Sage Vasistha died during the >>>>>> sacrifice of Daksha and was born again from the sacrificial fire of >>>>>> Brahma. >>>>>> His second earthly existence was later terminated due to a curse from >>>>>> King >>>>>> Nimi. >>>>>> >>>>>> Vasistha Ashram at Guwahati >>>>>> >>>>>> There is an Ashram dedicated to Vasishtha in Guwahati, India. This >>>>>> Ashram is situated close to Assam-Meghalaya border to the south of >>>>>> Guwahati >>>>>> city and is a major tourist attraction of Guwahati. >>>>>> >>>>>> Vasistha temple >>>>>> >>>>>> Vasishtha's Temple is situated in Vashisht village, Himachal Pradesh. >>>>>> >>>>>> Vasistha Cave >>>>>> >>>>>> Vashishtha Cave, a cave on the banks of Ganges at Shivpuri, 18 >>>>>> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/Shivpuri,%0D%0A18?entry=gmail&source=g> >>>>>> km from Rishikesh is also locally believed to be his winter abode and >>>>>> houses a Shiva temple, also nearby is Arundhati Cave. >>>>>> >>>>>> *End of posting about Sage Vasistha* >>>>>> >>>>>> -- >>>>>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google >>>>>> Groups "Thatha_Patty" group. >>>>>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, >>>>>> send an email to [email protected]. >>>>>> To view this discussion visit >>>>>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/thatha_patty/835024810.293532.1771563712907%40mail.yahoo.com >>>>>> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/thatha_patty/835024810.293532.1771563712907%40mail.yahoo.com?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >>>>>> . >>>>>> >>>>> -- >>> On Facebook, please join >>> https://www.facebook.com/groups/keralaiyerstrust >>> >>> We are now on Telegram Mobile App also, please join >>> >>> Pattars/Kerala Iyers Discussions: https://t.me/PattarsGroup >>> >>> Kerala Iyers Trust Decisions only posts : https://t.me/KeralaIyersTrust >>> >>> Kerala Iyers Trust Group for Discussions: >>> https://t.me/KeralaIyersTrustGroup >>> --- >>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google >>> Groups "KeralaIyers" group. >>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send >>> an email to [email protected]. >>> To view this discussion visit >>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/keralaiyers/CAL5XZop0DJA0KUott06hN9gx3Vua1s9wvwgZx2uPVGeGqN0DwQ%40mail.gmail.com >>> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/keralaiyers/CAL5XZop0DJA0KUott06hN9gx3Vua1s9wvwgZx2uPVGeGqN0DwQ%40mail.gmail.com?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >>> . >>> >> -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "Sanathana dharma and science" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to [email protected]. > To view this discussion visit > https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/sanathana-dharma-and-science/CAOCR2sp8KJkq7H7SADuN615aspXPbBqukC%2BniMmOhqTGTCg1jA%40mail.gmail.com > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/sanathana-dharma-and-science/CAOCR2sp8KJkq7H7SADuN615aspXPbBqukC%2BniMmOhqTGTCg1jA%40mail.gmail.com?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Thatha_Patty" group. 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