Article by – Sathya Shivakumar, Global Member – HSTD
Edited by – Shivakumar Chandrasekaran, Editorial Lead, HSTD
As I contemplate on the theme of “success” presented by the Awakening Times, it strikes me that it has many forms. Success, to someone deprived of love, manifests as being loved. For refugees of war, finding peace is the pinnacle of success. To a person on the verge of death, merely living becomes the ultimate triumph. The myriad facets of success keep us in constant motion, its realization often feeling like a distant prospect until what is sought is achieved. Once a particular desire has been satiated, the next one takes over and so the wheel of life is in constant motion.
While one may achieve success in a particular realm, the crucial inquiry revolves around whether such triumphs bring lasting contentment and satisfaction. History illustrates that many kings conquered vast lands, yet in the end, death claimed them all. True success transcends time and is rooted in expressing divinity and holding on to eternal truths.
In those moments when success feels elusive, it becomes apparent that true success lies in transcending the fluctuations of the mind. The individual who stands beyond the sway of desires, needing nothing, emerges as the epitome of success. In mastering the mind, one discovers the essence of what they truly are – the eternal bliss of Sat Chit Ananda.
Success thus extends beyond personal achievements; it encompasses the profound connection with a soul who has attained such a state. Even if one hasn’t arrived yet , the ability to connect with such a spiritually evolved person is a genuine success in itself. It’s an invitation to share in the wisdom and tranquility of a mind liberated from worldly pulls.
To walk alongside a Master is a profound privilege. It signifies not only a physical journey but a spiritual odyssey, where the seeker aligns with the profound teachings and presence of someone who has transcended the ordinary struggles of the mind, embodying the true essence of success. To be steadfast in following the footsteps of our Guru becomes a path akin to Bharatha carrying the symbolic Padukas of Rama—a powerful representation of complete surrender.
Delving into the immortal characters of the Ramayana reveals invaluable gems of wisdom. Success, much like Ravana’s ten heads, manifests in various forms, often accompanied by the rise of the ego. Ravana, unparalleled in his sadhana and devotion to Lord Shiva, exemplifies the rajasic nature of such success. Yet, despite being acknowledged with the title “Ravaneshwara” by Shiva, Ravana’s downfall lay in his inability to surrender his ego at the feet of the Lord.
In contrast, Bharatha, destined for kingship, recognized the divine avatar in the form of Ram. His surrender was marked by deep devotion and reverence, illustrating that true success isn’t merely in the attainment of power but in recognizing and wholeheartedly holding onto higher principles at all times.
Hanuman emerges as a guiding light for true devotion. As all of Rama’s closest family merged back with Rama’s ascent back to Vaikunta, Hanuman declared his eternal presence wherever Rama’s name is recited and vowed to remain in the land marked by Rama’s footprints. His unwavering devotion paints a vivid picture of selfless commitment, emphasizing that true success lies in a perpetual connection with the divine.
What can be said about the devotion of Sita Mata? She relinquished all luxury to be with her beloved Rama during the 14 years of exile even though she wasn’t required to. Enduring hardships and constant challenges, she remained with Ram. Destiny intervened and separated them, but who, having taken human birth, is free of trials? The stories of Jatayu, who stood by dharma, fought Ravana, and sacrificed himself for Sita’s rescue, the eternal wait of Sabari, a tribal lady, who having heard only the name of Ram from her master, patiently awaited his arrival and of Guha, a boat man who ferried Ram across unconditionally in divine friendship all make us contemplate the various hues of success. They all felt deeply gratified when they knew it was all done with the sole intention of realizing Him.
Last but not least, the squirrels that were part of the grand mission of Rama serve as a reminder that no matter how small or insignificant one may feel, in the grand scheme of things and in the eyes of the beloved master every little drop is valued.
The joyous occasion of Mohanji’s birthday is around the corner. At HSTD, it has become our tradition to make a heartfelt offering through dance during the birthday celebrations, in the presence of our beloved Master, who is the source behind its success. Four years ago, Radha and I had spontaneously sung a Malayalam song during a visit to his place around Mohanji’s birthday. It inspired the idea of presenting the same as a Bharatanatyam portrayal. In 2022, this desire came to life as we performed “Guruvayurappa ninne Kani kanenam” on Mohanji’s special day. It also marked the beginning of a journey as the Himalayan School of Traditional Dance evolved and grew, embracing diverse themes for workshops, programs, and engaging blogs.
The celebration at Puri in 2023 was truly magical. The team passionately presented the Jayadeva Ashtapadis “Pralaya Payodhi Jale” and “Sakhi Hey”. Jayadeva, a poet saint from Odisha, provided the perfect backdrop to express the eternal love between Shri Krishna and Radha. The students delved into the poetic verses that eloquently describe the myriad avatars of Vishnu.
This year, our offering for Mohanji’s birthday will be a new creatively choreographed dance recital extolling the life of Sri Rama set to the theme – “Samasthalokoddharaka Ram, Sakala Jeeva Samrakshaka Ram.” The significance of this year’s offering aligning with an epochal event – the “Prana Pratishta” of Ram Lalla at Ayodhya, feels like a divine plan coming together.
It also is a reflection of our beloved Master Mohanji’s persona who, akin to Lord Ram, tirelessly works to elevate the vibrations of the universe. Just like Sri Ram, Mohanji’s heart beats with compassion for all living beings. We eagerly look forward to this year’s celebration, weaving together our collective love and devotion into a tapestry of dance and spirituality. We feel honored to be part of Mohanji’s grand mission. We look forward to his eternal grace and empowerment in marching forward and attribute all our successes to his boundless grace!
