A Once-in-a-Lifetime Ritual for Royce, Drayush & Yajna 🙏

Dear Friends and Well-Wishers,

We would like to take a moment to share a very special milestone in our children’s lives – a sacred journey that recently took place in our family. ❤️

Royce and Drayush recently underwent their Upanayan Sanskar, the Janeu or sacred thread ceremony, an ancient rite of passage in Hindu Dharma that signifies the formal beginning of a child’s journey into knowledge, self-discipline, and righteous living. As described in our Vedas and Shastras, this ritual marks the start of Brahmacharya Ashram – the phase of life focused on learning and personal growth. It is not just a cultural tradition but a spiritual awakening and a lifelong foundation for character building.

The celebrations began with the beautiful and vibrant Kasar Batne ceremony. Surrounded by close family members, we blessed Royce, Yajna and Drayush with love and laughter while singing traditional songs, dancing with joy, and making the symbolic kasar laddoos. This joyful prelude set the tone for what would become one of the most unforgettable events of our lives.

Later that evening, we held the traditional Haldi ceremony, where turmeric paste was applied to the children with prayers for purity, health, and protection. The house echoed with music and dance late into the night, bringing everyone – young and old – together in celebration.

The next day was the main Upanayan ritual, led by our family priest. It was a long but powerful day, stretching from early morning to late evening. Despite the exhaustion, all Royce, Drayush and Yajna (who also underwent her Gunyo Cholo ceremony) stayed calm, respectful, and engaged throughout. Their grace and composure in such a spiritually intense event showed us that the first lesson of this ritual — to control one’s anger, ego, and frustration and to adapt with humility — had already begun to take root. 🙏

This entire ceremony was made possible with the immense support and dedication of Royce’s and Yajna's mama (maternal uncle) and extended family. Without their love and effort, we could never have imagined celebrating with such warmth and scale. Over 700 relatives, villagers, and well-wishers gathered to bless our children — truly a humbling and unforgettable experience.
With love,
Yubaraj & Rita Sedai
(Parents of Royce & Yajna)

#UpanayanSanskar #GunyoCholo #SanatanDharma #TraditionAndValues #RoyceSedai #YajnaSedai #DrayushBhetwal #FamilyBlessings #CulturalRoots #ProudParents

How Low Can You Go? The Uddhav Thackeray Chronicles of Power Games

In a world where politicians often outdo each other in their desperate quests for power, Uddhav Thackeray’s recent act has redefined the phrase "falling from grace." The former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, who once waved the Hindutva flag as if it were his personal mantra, has now donned the garb of repentance, apologizing for the Shiv Sena’s involvement in the 1992 riots. Oh, how the mighty have grovelled!

Uddhav, who once roared like a lion for Hindutva, has suddenly found himself in the midst of Muslim community leaders, asking for forgiveness and proclaiming, “It was a mistake, forgive me.” Forgive? Yes, of course! After all, why hold grudges when there’s an election to win? The timing of this act of atonement is so hilariously coincidental that even Bollywood scriptwriters would blush at its predictability.

Let’s take a moment to marvel at the irony. The same Uddhav Thackeray who built his political empire on Shiv Sena’s aggressive Hindutva ideology is now in the company of community leaders who once bore the brunt of his party's rhetoric. With folded hands and words dripping with contrition, he seems to say, "The past is the past. Let’s forget it, shall we?" Bravo, Mr. Thackeray! If power were a circus, you’d be the ringmaster.

But wait, there’s more! This isn’t just any apology. It’s an apology tailored to woo voters who might have turned their backs on his party after his ideological flip-flop. From the staunch Hindutva leader to a secular messiah, Uddhav’s transformation is a masterclass in political shape-shifting. Who needs principles when you have the power to gain?

The timing couldn’t be more suspicious. With elections around the corner, it’s clear that the apology is less about genuine remorse and more about making political gains. Thackeray’s Shiv Sena splintered after his fallout with the BJP, and now he’s scrambling to find footing in a landscape where his loyalists seem to be dwindling. What better way to expand your voter base than to eat humble pie in public? Forget convictions; survival is the new creed.

Uddhav’s father, Bal Thackeray, the founder of the Shiv Sena, must be metaphorically shaking his head from beyond. The late Balasaheb, known for his unapologetic rhetoric and steadfast commitment to Hindutva, would likely be aghast at his son’s volte-face. Where is the fire? Where is the unapologetic confidence? Instead, we have a politician bending over backwards to appease, placate, and beg.

As for the voters, one wonders what they make of this newfound humility. Is it sincere? Is it desperation? Or is it simply a calculated move by a politician who has realized that power is more important than principles? The answer lies in the ballot boxes. Will voters forgive and forget? Or will they see through the façade?

One thing is certain: Uddhav Thackeray’s apology has cemented his place in the annals of political opportunism. It’s a stark reminder that in the game of power, there are no permanent friends, enemies, or even ideologies—just opportunities. How low can one fall? Apparently, as low as necessary to grab a slice of the pie.

In the end, Uddhav’s apology may win him votes or cost him dearly. But one thing it has already won him is a spot in the gallery of political theatrics. So, take a bow, Mr. Thackeray. The stage is yours—for now.

Farewell to Ratan Tata: The Beacon of Indian Industry and Compassion Passes at 86

India bids a tearful farewell to Ratan Tata, the philanthropist and visionary who shaped an era, passing away peacefully at the age of 86. Born into the esteemed Tata family, Ratan's journey from a young boy with dreams to the helm of one of India's largest conglomerates was nothing short of remarkable.

As a child, Ratan faced personal challenges, yet grew with a deep sense of purpose and responsibility instilled by his upbringing. Educated at Cornell and Harvard, his return to India marked the beginning of a transformative era for the Tata Group. Under his leadership as Chairperson, Tata saw the acquisition of global brands like Jaguar Land Rover and Tetley, bringing India's industrial prowess to the world stage.

But beyond business success, Ratan Tata's legacy will forever shine brightest for his unwavering compassion. His philanthropic efforts through the Tata Trusts touched millions of lives—be it through healthcare, education, rural development, or disaster relief.

A man of few words but profound actions, Ratan Tata always stood by the ethos of ethical business and human dignity. His humility, integrity, and commitment to the betterment of society will remain etched in India's heart.

As we honour his journey, we pray for his soul's continued passage into new realms, seeking even greater peace and fulfilment.
#Tata

To all my young friends-

I impart to you the lessons I wish I had learned at your age.

1.Always remember how Mahadev has guided your parents thus far, and He will lead you too as you choose to honor and serve Him.

2. The most valuable treasures in life cannot be purchased with money; they are family, friends, dharma, and health. Pursue them relentlessly.

3. Financial security does not come from a higher income but from living below your means.

4. Not everyone will like or approve of you, and that's okay. What truly matters is that you respect yourself.

5. Your character and who you are as a person hold greater importance than your achievements.

6. Strive for excellence rather than perfection. Don't settle for simply doing your job; give it your very best.

7. Don't take yourself too seriously; make a conscious effort to laugh and have fun.

8. No matter what you achieve outside your home, it is meaningless if you haven't succeeded within it.

9. Embrace the discomfort of taking risks. Every time you feel uneasy, you open yourself up to growth.

10. Choose kindness over popularity.

11. Define success on your own terms, not based on someone else's expectations.

12. Be comfortable acknowledging your mistakes. It demonstrates authenticity and vulnerability.

13.Without humility, your hard work loses its value.

14. Make a habit of reading at least 10 pages of a good book daily, listening to an inspiring podcast once a week, and jotting down your thoughts.

15. Be generous with compliments and sparing with criticism.

16.Respect and treat women with utmost care, especially the woman you love.

17. Show faithfulness in the small things.

18. Stand by your word no matter what it takes.

19. Explore the world through travel and create memories that will endure beyond your lifetime.

20. Invest in your health by playing a sport, regularly going to the gym, or taking a daily walk.

21. Strength is forged in the midst of struggles; make the best of difficult situations.

22. Remember, it is perfectly acceptable for a man to shed tears.

23. Always seek the silver lining in every situation.

24. Engage in activities that nourish your mind, strengthen your spirit, and exercise your body every day.

25. Choose your friends wisely. Surround yourself with those who uplift, challenge, and hold you accountable.

एक उड़ते हुए गुब्बारे पर लिखा था

वो जो बाहर है, वह नहीं...
जो भीतर है, वही आपको ऊपर ले जाता है!

Worshiping the same deity as the favorite deity helps in mental unity. Although this is a good thing, other deities should never be looked down upon. We should also be clear that the same God exists in many forms.

Not harming anyone is the way to get rid of suffering in previous births and in this life.

Donating is a very good thing. But it is very necessary to sacrifice the idea that I have given charity to the poor.

Extravagance and dowry in marriages are against our Shastra traditions. We should realize that even if we ask for dowry or give it to the woman's family, it is like stolen property.

Eating vegetarian food also gives us a sense of humility and it is also a significant feature that we do not harm other living beings.
- Jagadguru Kanji Kamakodi Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswati Shankaracharya Swami
Sarvam Sri Krishnarpanam

Grant from Lord Shiva, tranquility's embrace,
Enough to navigate life's race.

Bestow just what's needed, no more, no less,
So others' paths may find success.

Depth in connections, let hearts entwine,
With love's grace, let relationships shine.

Let eyes hold humility's glow,
Honoring elders as they bestow.

In life's breath, make space to strive,
For deeds of goodness to thrive.

Take what's due in life's span,
May it lift, not burden, fellow man.

Serving, blessing, helping, uplifting, all are natural expression of a spiritually powerful being. Giving is our nature and when we follow our true nature, we become more full. #brahmakumaris #dadiprakashmani #giver #love #blessings #kindness #humility

Today we commemorate a leader who was humble, powerful, and pure-hearted. She won the hearts of many by winning the heart of one - God.
Dadi Prakashmani, whose name means a jewel of light, lived up to her name by her life. She led the Brahma Kumaris from 1969 to August 2007 with grace and wisdom.
On 25th August 2007, she bid farewell to this world, but her life still stands as a luminous example of humility and motherly love for us. #brahmakumaris #dadiprakashmanismritidivas #dadiprakashmani #humble #leader #blessings #motherlylove #shivshakti #remembranceday #inspiration #motivation

Beautiful Thought

Brahmakumaris
🌹Om Shanti 🌹

May your words be so full of love, humility, gentleness, greatness and truth that, in your presence, all feel welcomed, accepted and inspired to grow. Make it your practice to live in this way - the challenge is worth the effort.
❤️✌️😊❤️✌️😊❤️✌️😊

Bhagavad Gita holds the key to unlocking answers to every query and challenges.

The Young, can turn guidance on how to live life.
The Old, can seek wisdom on how to know how to die.
The Ignorant, can find enlightenment and become wise.
The Learned, can cultivate humility.
The Rich, can learn compassion.
The Dreamer, can find enchantment.
The Practical, can gain counsel.
The Weak, can find strength.
The Strength, can receive direction.
The Humble, can find exaltation.
The Weary, can find rest.
The Troubled, can find peace.
The Doubting, can receive assurance.
The Sinner, can find salvation.
The Seeker, can achieve Moksha.
The Human, can find guidance.
https://www.gitagpt.in/

His humility and self acceptance is phenomenal! 😇

A healthy relationship comes with a healthy balance of honesty & humility. Rather than suppressing, it is always good to be transparent and honest about our feelings. At the same time it is best to be open & humble to understand other's feelings. #brahmakumaris