Whole Dude – Whole Concept – Page 11 – Whole Dude

Whole Dude – Whole Worship

Lord Venkateswara - The Tradition of Feet Worship — **Whole Dude – Whole Worship: Defining Indian Identity – The Worship of Feet.**

Excerpt: The worship of feet, or ‘Pada Sevanam’, is an integral part of Indian identity and the culture’s philosophy of total submission and surrender to a higher divine power. In the Hindu religion, this act signifies humility, protection, and reverence. This practice is deeply rooted in Indian epics like Ramayana, where feet touching was a significant gesture. In modern times, this tradition continues, seen in ordinary life situations, such as people paying respect to elders by touching their feet. Thus, the act of worshipping feet is a unique cultural hallmark that helps define the Indian identity.

**Whole Dude – Whole Worship: Defining Indian Identity – The Worship of Feet.**

“viṣṇōḥ padē parama” ityudita praśaṃsau
yau “madhva utsa” iti bhōgya tayā’pyupāttau ।
bhūyastathēti tava pāṇitala pradiṣṭau
śrīvēṅkaṭēśa charaṇau śaraṇaṃ prapadyē ॥ 10 ॥

I seek refuge of Sri Venkateswara’s feet,
which are extolled (in the Rg Veda)
as “Visnoh parame pade” (in the most exalted abode of Vishnu),
which are, (again) extolled therein
as “madhva utsa” (meaning the fountain the honey)
as extremely enjoyable
and which are indicated as such by
the show of the palm of Thy hand.

Pada Vandanam, Pada Namaskaram, Pada Archanam, Pada Sevanam, Pada Puja or Worship of Feet:

The land of India is a very unique place on this planet where people are culturally endowed with an ardent desire to worship feet.No other society or social community has openly exhibited this behavioral trait and feet worship could be described as the hall-mark of Indian Identity.This tradition and literal practice of feet worship was well established by the time the epic poem of Ramayana was composed. In AYODHYA KANDA,we read the very moving account of Rama touching the feet of His father Dasaratha and queen mother Kaikeyi after having received the orders for his banishment to live in the forest for fourteen years. Later in ARANYA KANDA, we read about the younger brother Bharata who literally clung to the feet of Rama seeking His refuge. Eventually,Bharata carried Rama’s sandals keeping them on his head and installs them on the throne (PADUKA PATTABHISHEKAM) and served them with great devotion for fourteen long years during Rama’s exile.

India is the land where you witness people touching the feet of living persons as an act of worship.This is a fairly common event and sometimes the remembrance of such worship lingers in your mind.I would like to narrate one such event that I had witnessed in the past and my act of remembrance may add-on to the blessings these feet worshipers may be receiving even today.

I was traveling by train from Rajahmundry to Lucknow City to serve in the Indian Army Medical Corps. I was motivated by a desire to see the land of India with my own eyes and know its people. For the first time, I was traveling in a first class compartment and was the sole occupant. Later in the night, a lady entered the compartment and was apparently traveling alone. She was elegantly attired, looked modest and the picture of an upper middle class house wife. Early morning, when the train halted at a station, I did not realize that she had reached her destination. She was quietly seated, was not gathering her belongings and was not even looking outside to check if some one had arrived to receive her. After a little while, I had noticed three young men, well- dressed and well-groomed, all of them little older than me, checking the list of passenger names on the door of the train compartment and entered the compartment. They did not pay any attention to my presence. One after the other, they went forward to bend and touch her feet and paid their respects. The behavior of the young men that I was keenly observing was natural, spontaneous and unpretentious. That early morning hour, they were not putting up an act in a public place to impress any one. They acted in a deliberate, purposeful and reverential manner and I am very sure that they grew up in that manner and clearly they were not inhibited in displaying their respect in front of strangers. I was a silent spectator of this scene wherein an unassuming woman suddenly got transformed into a living deity. I can assure you that you would witness such a scene only in the Land of India. Hence, I would claim that the desire to worship the feet of a living person would define Indian Identity.

Every deity that Indians seek to worship are better pleased when we worship their feet. PRAHLADA describes “PADA SEVANAM” as one of the nine ways to worship VISHNU.

Lord Rama and the Tradidtion of 'Feet Worship' — Whole Dude – Whole Worship: Ramayana gives detailed accounts of the Tradition of Feet Worship.Rama worshipped the feet of His father, mother, stepmothers and His Gurus. Bharata, the younger brother of Rama had installed the sandals (Padukas) worn by Rama upon the throne had worshipped them for fourteen years.

Indians worship feet not only as a sign of humility but also as a mark of submission, total surrender to the will of God. They touch feet as a plea for protection. This is not a mere religious rite or ritual and it actually shapes the attitudes and behavior of people. The final resting place for the individual souls (JEEVATMA)has been described as the Lotus Feet of the Lord. This is described as ‘CHARANAM’ (Feet of the Lord) ‘SHARANAM’ (Ultimate Refugee).

Whole Dude – Whole Journey

**Whole Dude – Whole Samsara: The Rudi-Grant Connection faces the Fear of Samsara.**

Excerpt: The article looks into the concept of ‘Samsara,’ which is seen in Indian traditions as a representation of life’s journey – a challenging swim across an unknown and treacherous ocean. This journey incites a fear called ‘Fear of Samsara,’ contributing to feelings of apprehension and the intense fear of the human condition. This fear is considered unique to Indian cultural traditions, differentiating them from other global traditions like Christianity, Islam, and Judaism whose followers primarily fear the Lord. However, despite this anxiety, individuals rely on chants and signs such as ‘Abhaya Mudra’ (a sign of fearlessness) from deities for support and guidance during this strenuous journey.

Lord Hanuman - The Fear of Samsara — Whole Dude – Whole Samsara: Defining Indian Identity – The Fear of Samsara. Samsara portrays the picture of life’s journey as a tedious,difficult and challenging swim across an unknown,uncharted and treacherous ocean.

The cultural traditions that originated in India motivate people to seek refuge or shelter at the Feet of the Lord by evoking a sense of fear and this fear is described as the fear of ” SAMSARA.” Samsara or Bhava describes the viewpoint about the human condition and deals with the problems of human existence. It contributes to a sense of apprehension and anxiety and the attitude it generates is one of intense fear and helplessness.

Ullanghya sindho salilam saleelam
Yaha shoka wanheen Janakaatma jaayaaha
Aadaaya tenaiwa dadaaha Lankaa
Namaami tam praanjali raanjaneyam

Whole Dude – Whole Samsara: Defining Indian Identity-The Fear of Samsara. Samsara portrays the picture of life’s journey as a tedious,difficult and challenging swim across an unknown,uncharted and treacherous ocean.

In one great leap of faith, Lord Hanuman jumps over the sea with utmost ease, whereas crossing the sea evokes only a sense of fear in my heart. I derive some hope from the legend about the land bridge (SETU) built by the army of monkeys.The Sea God promised them that the rocks and boulders used for the construction of the bridge will be held in place and stay afloat. He did that to please Lord Rama. During my perilous journey across the ocean of SAMSARA, I use the name “RAMA” and stay afloat.

LORD RAMA - THE MEDICINE FOR A DISEASE KNOWN AS 'SAMSARA' — Whole Dude – Whole Samsara: Samsara portrays the picture of life’s journey as a tedious,difficult and challenging swim across an unknown,uncharted and treacherous ocean. In the fearful journey described as ‘SAMSARA’, I use Lord Rama’s name as a ‘Life Jacket’ and also the name serves like a Beacon of Hope and provides a sense of direction while journeying across an uncharted, treacherous sea.

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom” says the Holy Bible, The Book of Proverbs, Chapter1, verse 7.

Whole Dude – Whole Samsara: Defining Indian Identity – The Fear of Samsara. Samsara portrays the picture of life’s journey as a tedious,difficult and challenging swim across an unknown,uncharted and treacherous ocean.

For the religious traditions that originated outside of India such as Judaism, Christianity and Islam, the fear of the Lord could be a primary motivating factor to seek the worship of the Lord. On the contrary, the religious traditions that originated in the Land of India, do not encourage their adherents to entertain any such fear of the Lord. In the Indian traditions, the Lord or the Deity that Indians choose to worship would receive them with a sign that proclaims ” Be Fearless.” The Lord reassures them with a sign that is popularly described as ABHAYA HASTA or ABHAYA MUDRA. In Indian literature, countless number of images, idols, paintings and drawings, there are invariable references to a consistent message of ABHAYA and naturally Indians are less concerned with ” The Fear of the Lord.”

**Whole Dude – Whole Samsara – Whole Journey. Abhaya Mudra and Abhaya Hasta describe the positioning of hand to indicate as a sign that overcomes the sense of fear.**

Samsara portrays the picture of life’s journey as a tedious,difficult and challenging swim across an unknown,uncharted and treacherous ocean.

Samsara is also depicted as a serious disease entity afflicting a person’s health and is referred to as “Bhava Roga.” Others view Samsara as existence in a bottomless deep pit (“Aghada”)or that of being trapped in a deep well from where an escape would not be easy. The fear of Samsara/Bhava, the fear of the human condition, has nothing to do with physical courage. The powerful idea of Samsara inspires a sense of fear in the hearts of even the most courageous of all people. Cultural traditions that have their roots in the other parts of this planet may not be aware of this kind of fear and hence the fear of Samsara could be viewed as a feature that defines and molds the Indian Identity. Indians chant the Lord’s name as a medicine to cure this terrible disease and they seek Lord’s protection to reach the shore and complete the journey across the ocean.There are numerous references in the Indian literature.

**Whole Dude – Whole Samsara – Whole Journey. My Life Journey started in Mylapore, Madras (Chennai City) on Kutchery Street near the Marina Beach.**

Human existence is beset with countless uncertainties and difficulties which may arrive without any prior warning from different directions in an unpredictable manner. It is rational to approach life with a sense of apprehension and seek the help of the Lord who graciously held His right hand in a show of compassion and receives with a greeting of “Abhaya” and is willing to banish the fear of Samsara.

Whole Dude – Whole Samsara: Defining Indian Identity-The Fear of Samsara. The LORD is Male and Female at one and the same time. The right hand is held in the pose of Abhaya Mudra. Samsara portrays the picture of life’s journey as a tedious,difficult and challenging swim across an unknown,uncharted and treacherous ocean.

**Whole Dude – Whole Samsara – Whole Journey**

**Whole Dude – Whole Samsara: The Rudi-Grant Connection presents the post, The Fear of the Lord vs The Fear of Samsara**

Whole Dude – Whole Listening

Excerpt: In 1970, Dr. R. Rudra Narasimham, while serving in the Military Hospital, Ambala Cantt, used an unconventional method to find a patient’s missing watch, leveraging the deep-seated Indian regard for truth. He listened to all the patients’ heartbeats, insinuating that he could identify the wrongdoer through this procedure. Ultimately, the missing watch was returned, saving the culprit public humiliation. This incident reflects the strong Indian sense of truth and the belief that it cannot remain concealed when one searches his own heart. Narasimham’s tale is a spiritual illustration that truth, represented by Lord Rama, and the essence of existence, is ultimately compassionate.

**Defining Indian Identity -Finding Truth – Listening to the Heart. The Divine Mother is fondly remembered by invoking the numerous endearing names such as Amba, Durga, Parvati, and others.**

**Whole Dude – Whole Listening: I served in Military Hospital, Ambala from September 1970 to September 1971. A view of the Medical Division at MH Ambala**

While I was posted as an Intern at Military Hospital, Ambala, a patient of my Surgical Ward reported the problem of his missing watch.

To investigate the problem, I asked all the patients to come to my office and I carefully listened to their heartbeats. It was my impression that the missing watch was in the possession of one of the patients who was not its rightful owner.

I listened to their heart beats after I announced to them that I could discover the wrongful owner of the watch as the truth could be found in his heart. At the end of this listening session, I announced that I discovered the truth and asked the unspecified wrongful owner to return the watch to the place from where it was picked up, for that would give him a chance to avoid public exposure of his mischief. As expected by me, the missing watch found its way back to the bathroom from where it was picked up. The watch was returned to its rightful owner.

I listened to the hearts of my patients under the assumption that Indians have a deep sense of concern for truth and this concern about truth is a defining characteristic of Indian Identity. I would not suggest that my patients were gullible enough to trust my words about finding the culprit by listening to the heart sounds. They indeed have a true concern about the nature of truth and their inability to conceal truth from being revealed when man looks into his own heart in search of truth.

Dr. R. Rudra Narasimham, B.Sc., M.B.B.S.,

Personal Number – MS-8466 Rank Lieutenant/Captain Intern/Medical Officer ( 1970-71),

Military Hospital, Ambala, Haryana, India.

SPIRITUALITY SCIENCE – ESSENCE AND EXISTENCE – CHIDAMBARA RAHASYAM: LORD GOD IS JUST ONE AND THE SAME AND YET MAN KNOWS HIM BY DIFFERENT NAMES. IN THE INDIAN TRADITION, THE NAME RAMA IS THE PERSONIFICATION OF THE ABSOLUTE TRUTH OR THE ULTIMATE REALITY. LORD RAMA IS THE SOURCE OF KRUPA OR COMPASSION FOR HE HAS THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFE JOURNEY IN HIS PHYSICAL MANIFESTATION AS A HUMAN BEING.

Whole Dude – Whole Sermon

Operation Eagle 1971 - A Sermon in Kaptai Bangladesh — **Operation Eagle 1971-72. A Sermon in Kaptai, Bangladesh**

GLORIOUS QURAN – SURAH VIII – SPOILS OF WAR, VERSE 61: “AND IF THEY INCLINE TO PEACE, INCLINE THOU ALSO TO IT, AND TRUST IN ALLAH. LO! HE IS THE HEARER, THE KNOWER.”

Excerpt: The article details Operation Eagle 1971-72, a military operation conceived by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi with the goal of bringing peace to Bangladesh, then seeking independence from Pakistan. The summary emphasizes Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan’s role as both an Islamic Scholar and a military leader serving in Operation Eagle. Narayan’s deep understanding of Islamic tradition and culture, as well as his efforts to foster peace, are highlighted through his leadership and actions, such as his execution of Friday Prayer Services for local Bangla Muslims. The author also asks the Indian Government to acknowledge the bravery showcased during the operation.

**Operation Eagle 1971-72. A Sermon in Kaptai, Bangladesh.**

THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO SAINT MATTHEW, CHAPTER 5, VERSE 9: “BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS, FOR THEY WILL BE CALLED SONS OF GOD “

**The military operation – Operation Eagle 1971 in the Chittagong Hill Tracts was inclined towards PEACE.**

**OPERATION EAGLE 1971 IN THE CHITTAGONG HILL TRACTS IS INCLINED TOWARDS PEACE. WE DELIVERED PEACE TO PEOPLE OF BANGLADESH.**

Operation Eagle 1971 was conceived by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to deliver peace to the people of Bangladesh who had earlier declared their independence from Pakistan. I had the good fortune to serve under the Command of an Islamic Scholar who had performed Hajj and who had retained the entire book of Holy Quran in his memory and a true master of Islamic religious tradition and rituals of worship. Peace is the greeting of the Righteous. The Righteous while engaged in war are inclined towards Peace. My South Column Infantry Unit Commander of Operation Eagle, Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan belonged to the Regiment of Artillery and during the time I spent with him I learned about the peace traditions of Righteous Muslims. Kindly read my personal tribute to this Islamic Scholar who had served Indian Army in its Olive Green Uniform.

I knew Colonel Narayan’s great admiration for Arab people. He always described them as peace-loving people. He knew this as a fact and it was based upon his understanding of Islamic Culture and traditions. I would describe Colonel Narayan as God’s humble servant. It is important to remember and pay tribute to such “peacemakers” as we can achieve true peace through reflecting and understanding the revelations from the Holy Scriptures of all people. The Regiment of Artillery of Indian Army must record this historical contribution made by a Gunner officer who served as an Infantry Commander during the Bangladesh Ops of 1971-72.

Dr. R. Rudra Narasimham, B.Sc., M.B.B.S.,

Personal Number: MS-8466; Rank: Captain; Branch: AMC/SSC

Medical Officer, South Column, Operation Eagle

Headquarters Establishment No. 22 C/O 56 APO

Special Frontier Force – Establishment Number. 22 – Operation Eagle – Liberation War of Bangladesh 1971:

Indira Gandhi, Prime Minister of India had initiated Liberation of Bangladesh during 1971 with military action in Chittagong Hill Tracts. The battle plan of this military action is known as Operation Eagle. She had conceived this battle plan to bring peace in that region. She was inclined towards peace. She wanted to deliver peace to people of Bangladesh who had earlier declared their independence from Pakistan. During Operation Eagle 1971, I had served in South Column, an Infantry Unit Commanded by Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan. He was a great Islamic Scholar. He had explained to me that PEACE is the greeting of Righteous people.

OPERATION EAGLE 1971:The Flag of The Regiment of Artillery of Indian Army. This is a story about a Gunner, an Officer of The Regiment of Artillery who had commanded an Infantry Unit during India-Pakistan War of 1971 and had planned and executed Infantry Assaults on Enemy Posts to Liberate Bangladesh. His Unit was the first to receive the Gallantry Awards of Vir Chakra during the Liberation War of Bangladesh.

The Military Operation in Chittagong Hill Tracts during Indo-Pak War of 1971 aimed at restoring Peace and to help Bangla Muslims to live in Dignity. My Unit had captured Kaptai and this Dam was not targeted for inflicting any kind of damage. — OPERATION EAGLE 1971:The Military Operation in Chittagong Hill Tracts during India-Pakistan War of 1971 aimed at restoring Peace and to deliver Peace to Bangladesh Muslims to help them live in Dignity. My Unit had captured Kaptai and this Dam was not targeted for inflicting any kind of damage.

**OPERATION EAGLE 1971:My Unit never discussed any Battle Plan that required blowing up the Dam over Karnaphuli River at Kaptai.**

A personal tribute to Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan, an Islamic Scholar who served in Olive Green Uniform. The Imam of Friday Prayer in Kaptai on December 17, 1971

A Sermon in Kaptai, Bangladesh Ops 1971-72. A personal tribute to Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan, The Regiment of Artillery. An Islamic Scholar who served in Olive Green Uniform. The Imam of Friday Prayer on December 17, 1971.

I was in college from 1962 to 1965 and obtained the Bachelor of Science degree from Osmania University, Hyderabad. I remember this period as the Golden Age of immortal Mohd. Rafi whose melodies still fill my ears. I grew up in this cradle of Urdu language Culture and had acquired my love for ghazals and qawwalis. I spent time in Lucknow, a crown jewel in the Urdu speaking world, where you meet in the market place, ordinary folks who speak in tones that have made the language famous for its sweetness. Much later, I had served in the Royal Oman Army and took my first lesson in Arabic language. My love for Urdu and my Knowledge of Arabic language pales when I write about this Islamic Scholar and Arabic language expert whom I met in India during 1971. He passed away on Sunday, May 2, 2004, in Bahrain where he worked for over 20 years as the Head of the Translation Department at the Bahrain Archives. This is not a tribute about his academic accomplishments, the books that he had published, his military career or about his famous friendly relationship with President Gamal Abdel Nasser and President Anwar Sadat of Egypt. I am writing this tribute to recognize his personal qualities and the values that he had promoted. I am writing this tribute to recognize him as a “peacemaker.” He represents a symbol of hope and the light that he had shown may lead us on to a path of peaceful co-existence.

**A personal tribute to Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan, an Islamic Scholar who served in Olive Green Uniform. The Imam of Friday Prayer in Kaptai on December 17, 1971**: ” (This is) a Scripture that We have revealed unto thee, full of blessing, that they may ponder its revelations, and that men of understanding may reflect “.(Holy Book of Quran, Surah XXXVIII, “SAAD” verse 29)

I met Lieutenant Colonel.B K Narayan in Demagiri, Mizoram in October 1971. He hails from Karnataka, and he grew up as a Hindu. We gathered in Demagiri to make preparations to launch Operation Eagle in support of Bangla Muslims seeking freedom from military dictatorship imposed by Pakistan. In Demagiri, I reported to him to serve as his Medical Officer of the South Column Unit. He had the unique distinction of commanding an Infantry Unit in the conduct of War while he belonged to The Regiment of Artillery. I have not known a ‘GUNNER’ who could plan and execute Infantry Attacks on Enemy posts. Colonel Iqbal Singh, the Chief of Staff at the Force Headquarters also belonged to The Regiment of Artillery. But, the role played by Colonel Narayan as an Infantry Commander during War is exceptional and has no comparisons that I am aware of. I had the opportunity to converse with him for extended periods of time and came to know his admirable personality. It is not the knowledge of Arabic language that has made him unique and sets him apart from all other language experts. He is special because of his love for Islamic Culture and his ability to project the deep understanding of that Culture when he speaks to others. He performed the holy pilgrimage of Hajj and had observed all the rituals of that spiritual journey like a true and devout Muslim. When he narrated his Hajj experience, I could know the sense of joy and the purity of his intentions. His observance of Hajj, a ritual performed by all devout Muslims, was genuine, real to its core.

A Sermon in Kaptai, Bangladesh Ops 1971-72. A personal tribute to Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan, an Islamic Scholar who served in Olive Green Uniform. On Friday, December 10, 1971, the South Column Unit under his Command fought a furious battle with Pakistan’s Security Forces just east of Barkal and forced them into a retreat On Friday, December 17, 1971, Colonel Narayan conducted the Friday Worship Service in Kaptai acting as the Imam of Friday Prayer.

From Tlabung, Demagiri, South Column marched to Borunasury and then we marched towards Barkal after neutralizing the enemy post at Jalanpara and had encounters with aggressive enemy patrolling to resist our advance at two other locations. Finally, on Friday, December 10, 1971, the enemy fought a very decisive battle on the east side of Karnaphuli River to stop our advance towards Barkal. After losing the battle, the enemy promptly beat a retreat and withdrew from Barkal, Rangamati, Kaptai, and further moved out of Chittagong without putting up a fight. Col Narayan was able to quote the Quran from his memory and would convey his understanding of the verses with great clarity. I personally witnessed his amazing performance in a little town called KAPTAI, on the banks of Karnaphuli Lake, Rangamati Division of Bangladesh. He conducted the Friday Worship Service for the local Bangla Muslims and delivered a sermon which was received with great appreciation by the worshipers. His job in Uniform did not impose any obligation to organize such an event. He held that prayer meeting entirely on his own initiative and it was purely an expression of his love to worship in the Islamic tradition and it also affirms his faith that the worship of God is not limited by one single tradition.

A personal tribute to Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan, an Islamic Scholar who served in Olive Green Uniform. The Imam of Friday Prayer in Kaptai on December 17, 1971:”And if they incline to peace, incline thou also to it, and trust in Allah. Lo! He is the Hearer, the Knower.”

The Friday Prayer Service was held at the State Guest House in Kaptai where I stayed after my Unit had captured Kaptai. It had a large Conference Room. Col Narayan contacted the Muslim Clerics of the local Masjid and they were absolutely delighted when they met him. His Scholarship and devotion to Islam had captivated them and they immediately agreed to convene the local congregation at the Guest House and organize the Friday Prayer Service. The Conference Hall got totally packed with worshipers. I could watch the proceedings directly from my room in the State Guest House. The Bangla Muslim Community of Kaptai were truly appreciative of Colonel Narayan and his military campaign for bringing Peace and Joy to their Community.

OPERATION EAGLE 1971:Major General Sujan Singh Uban, Inspector General of Special Frontier Force, was my Commander during Operation Eagle 1971 but he made no mention about ‘The Sermon in Kaptai’ in his book.

OPERATION EAGLE 1971:THE SERMON IN KAPTAI, BANGLADESH. We had helped the Bangladesh Muslims to regain their freedom and dignity.The India-Pakistan War of 1971 and the Birth of Bangladesh are very significant achievements of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. As I was then serving in an Establishment under the Cabinet Secretariat, I had direct and personal understanding of her Foreign Policy Initiatives. She had personally approved our military Operation in Chittagong Hill Tracts. In the conduct of this War, we had faced a very critical moment and it needed her personal intervention and a decision that she alone could make. I rendered my services and had overcome the challenge posed by that critical situation. The importance of this situation could be understood as it needed an intervention from the Prime Minister. I am now asking the Government of India to recognize my GALLANT response in enemy’s territory without any concern for my personal safety.

OPERATION EAGLE 1971:Electricity generated at Kaptai helps to operate Chandraghona Paper Mills near Kaptai.An engineer who had worked in the Paper Mills at Chandraghona, a Bangla Muslim had helped my Unit during our military operation in Chittagong Hill Tracts.When our Unit reached Kaptai, the engineer happily returned to his home. I went and visited the Paper and Rayon Fiber Mill at Chandraghona.

Lieutenant Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands(December 1985 to December 1989) – Lieutenant General(Retd) TS Oberoi, PVSM, VrC., former General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Headquarters Southern Command, Pune, former Inspector General, Special Frontier Force, former Commandant, Headquarters Establishment No. 22, Commander Operation Eagle 1971. He is the tall person in this photo wearing dark brown turban. I knew him since 1971. Under his able leadership, the Liberation of Bangladesh had commenced in the year 1971 during the Indo-Pak War.Apart from his military wisdom, he took a good care of all men under his Command. While I was proceeding to Chittagong Hill Tracts, he had individually greeted all the members of my team and had delayed the departure of aircraft to ensure that a hot breakfast was served to all the men boarding the aircraft. He paid personal attention to all the aspects of the military mission to ensure the wellbeing of men apart from achieving success in accomplishing the military task. The sense of warmth he radiated is easily felt when we meet him in person. His grandson provided me the link to this photo. Photo Credit – Trishna-Ajay-Picasa Web Album.

Whole Dude – Whole Fear

Indian Identity is characterized by a “FEAR”. This is unlike the “FEAR OF THE LORD” described in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In the Land of Bharat, human existence is described as ‘SAMSARA’ or ‘BHAVA’. It is a fearful journey. It is a disease entity.

The cultural traditions that originated in India motivate people to seek refuge or shelter at the Feet of the Lord by evoking a sense of fear and this fear is described as the fear of ” Samsara.” Samsara or Bhava describes the viewpoint about the human condition and deals with the problems of human existence. It contributes to a sense of apprehension and anxiety and the attitude it generates is one of intense fear and helplessness.

Ullanghya sindho salilam saleelam
Yaha shoka wanheen Janakaatma jaayaaha
Aadaaya tenaiwa dadaaha Lankaa
Namaami tam praanjali raanjaneyam

Whole Dude – Whole Fear: The Fear of Samsara. Samsara portrays the picture of life’s journey as a tedious,difficult and challenging swim across an unknown,uncharted and treacherous ocean.

In one great leap of faith, Lord Hanuman jumps over the sea with utmost ease, whereas crossing the sea evokes only a sense of fear in my heart. I derive some hope from the legend about the land bridge (Setu) built by the army of monkeys.The Sea God promised them that the rocks and boulders used for the construction of the bridge will be held in place and stay afloat. He did that to please Lord Rama. During my perilous journey across the ocean of Samsara, I use the name “RaMa” to stay afloat just like the stones used in the construction of the land bridge.

Whole Dude – Whole Fear: The Fear of Samsara. ***Samsara portrays the picture of life’s journey as a tedious,difficult and challenging swim across an unknown,uncharted and treacherous ocean.***

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom” says the Holy Bible, The Book of Proverbs, Chapter1, verse 7.

For the religious traditions that originated outside of India such as Judaism, Christianity and Islam, the fear of the Lord could be a primary motivating factor to seek the worship of the Lord. On the contrary, the religious traditions that originated in the Land of India, do not encourage their adherents to entertain any such fear of the Lord. In the Indian traditions, the Lord or the Deity that Indians choose to worship would receive them with a sign that proclaims ” Be Fearless.” The Lord reassures them with a sign that is popularly described as Abhaya Hasta or Abhaya Mudra . In Indian literature, countless number of images, idols, paintings and drawings, there are invariable references to a consistent message of Abhaya and naturally Indians are less concerned with ” The Fear of the Lord.”

Samsara portrays the picture of life’s journey as a tedious,difficult and challenging swim across an unknown,uncharted and treacherous ocean.

Samsara is also depicted as a serious disease entity afflicting a person’s health and is referred to as ” Bhava Roga.” Others view Samsara as existence in a bottomless deep pit (“Aghada”)or that of being trapped in a deep well from where an escape would not be easy. The fear of Samsara/Bhava, the fear of the human condition, has nothing to do with physical courage. The powerful idea of Samsara inspires a sense of fear in the hearts of even the most courageous of all people. Cultural traditions that have their roots in the other parts of this planet may not be aware of this kind of fear and hence the fear of Samsara could be viewed as a feature that defines and molds the Indian Identity. Indians chant the Lord’s name as a medicine to cure this terrible disease and they seek Lord’s protection to reach the shore and complete the journey across the ocean.There are numerous references in the Indian literature.

Whole Dude – Whole Fear: The Fear of Samsara. The LORD is Male and Female at one and the same time. The right hand is held in the pose of Abhaya Mudra. *Samsara portrays the picture of life’s journey as a tedious,difficult and challenging swim across an unknown,uncharted and treacherous ocean.*

Whole Dude – Whole Surrender

Excerpt: The Land of Bharat is a very unique place on this planet where people are culturally endowed with an ardent desire to worship feet.

**Whole Dude – Whole Surrender: The Worship of Feet describes the process of total surrender.**

Pada Vandanam, Pada Namaskaram, Pada Archanam, Pada Sevanam, Pada Puja or the Worship of Feet:

The land of India is a very unique place on this planet where people are culturally endowed with an ardent desire to worship feet.No other society or social community has openly exhibited this behavioral trait and feet worship could be described as the hall-mark of Indian Identity.This tradition and literal practice of feet worship was well established by the time the epic poem of Ramayana was composed. In Ayodhya Kanda,we read the very moving account of Rama touching the feet of His father Dasaratha and queen mother Kaikeyi after having received the orders for his banishment to live in the forest for fourteen years. Later in Aranya Kanda, we read about the younger brother Bharata who literally clung to the feet of Rama seeking His refuge. Eventually,Bharata carried Rama’s sandals keeping them on his head and installs them on the throne (Paduka Pattabhishekam) and served them with great devotion for fourteen long years during Rama’s exile.

**Whole Dude – Whole Surrender: The Worship of Feet describes the process called total surrender.**

Every deity that Indians seek to worship are better pleased when we worship their feet. Prince Prahlada describes “Pada Sevanam” as one of the nine ways to worship Lord Vishnua.

Indians worship feet not only as a sign of humility but also as a mark of submission, total surrender to the will of God. They touch feet as a plea for protection. This is not a mere religious rite or ritual and it actually shapes the attitudes and behavior of people. The final resting place for the individual souls (Jeevatma)has been described as the Lotus Feet of the Lord. This is described as ‘Charanam’ (Feet of the Lord) ‘Sharanam’ (Ultimate Refuge).

**Whole Dude – Whole Surrender: Man seeks the protection by the Worship of Feet to which he totally surrenders.**

Whole Dude – Whole Individualism

Whole Dude – Whole Individualism: IN SHANKARA’S ANALYSIS, MAN IS NOT SAVED BY ACQUIRED KNOWLEDGE. MAN CANNOT DIRECTLY RULE OR GOVERN HIS OWN BODY FOR CELLS ARE INDEPENDENT AND ENJOY CELLULAR AUTONOMY.

ManO bhudhyahamkaara Chittaani na aHam,

Na Karnam, na Jihvaa, na cha Ghraana Netram,

Na cha Vyoma Bhumir na Tejo na VaayuH,

Chidaananda RuupaH ShivO aHam, ShivO aHam.

What is Individualism?

The word individual is derived from Latin, ‘Individualis’-that which is not divided-an individual. Individualism can be defined as follows:1. a belief that stresses the primary importance and worth of each person and in the virtues of self-reliance and personal independence, 2. the principle or practice of maintaining individuality or independence of the individual, 3. the principle or habit of or belief in independent thought or action, 4. the conception that all values, rights and duties originate in individuals, 5. a doctrine that the interests of the individual are or ought to be ethically paramount, and 6. the pursuit of individual rather than common or collective interests. The doctrine of Individualism may support a view that the interests of the individual should take precedence over the interests of the State or Social Group.

Indian Culture views human existence in absolute individualistic terms and the legacy of Indian Culture could be described as ‘Individualism’.

The Foundation for Individualism:

Bhagavad Gita - Individualism — **Whole Dude – Whole Individualism: The Doctrine of Individualism.**

The Bhagavad Gita, Chapter II, Sankhya Yoga, verse 39, claims that the analytical knowledge derived from Samkhya philosophy gives the description of the nature of individual and individuality.

Chapter II, of the Bhagavad Gita explains this philosophy in several verses.Verse 11 claims that those who are wise lament neither for the living nor the dead.

In verse 12, Lord Krishna states that there was never a time when He did not exist, nor Arjuna, nor all others in the battle field, and in the future there will never be a time when any of them cease to exist. Lord Krishna (The Supreme Individual Person) and also all other individuals are eternal persons.They existed as individuals in the past and they will continue to exist as individuals in the future.Their individuality existed in the past and their individuality will continue in the future without interruption. Lord Krishna clearly states that the individuality of all others will continue eternally. Hence, Indians do not accept the bodily conception of the living entities. Living entity is an individual soul and even though the body changes every moment, the soul does not undergo any change.

Verse 13, claims that the embodied soul continually passes, in this body, from boyhood to youth, and then to old age; similarly, the soul also passes into another body at death. By nature the human body is ever changing, and the soul is eternal.

Verse 24 states that this individual soul is unbreakable and insoluble. He is everlasting, unchangeable, immovable, and eternally the same.

Finally, verse 27 establishes the foundation for ‘Individualism’ by stressing that ” For one who has taken his birth,death is certain; and for one who is dead, birth is certain.”

The Supremacy of Individual:

**Whole Dude – Whole Individualism: The Primary importance of the Individual.**

The primary importance of the individual is established by the Vedic statement “AHAM BRAHMASMI” which describes the True Identity of the Individual as that of Ultimate Reality known as Brahman. The following verse supports the idea that the Individual is a Whole entity as the Whole is derived from the Whole, perfect, Supreme Being:

**Whole Dude – Whole Individualism: The Supremacy of Individual.**

Om, purna mada, purna midam, purnaat purna mudachyate

Purnasya purna maadaya, purna meva vasishtyate.

“That” (is an indefinite term to designate the Invisible Absolute) is Whole (Perfect Substance with Perfect Nature and Quality); “This” (the visible, the phenomenal embodied Soul) is Whole, from the (invisible) Whole comes forth the (visible) Whole. Though the visible Whole is derived or deducted from that invisible Whole, yet the Whole remains unaltered and both retain their Perfect Condition called Whole. The human entity is virtually trapped in a repeated cycle of birth, death and rebirth.The ultimate purpose of human existence is to achieve Moksha (Liberation) or Mukti (Release) from this Cycle that is referred to as ‘Samsara’.

The Practice of Individualism:

Individualism is built upon the value attached to knowing oneself. We are encouraged to look inwards and to reflect upon the nature of ‘SELF’. Self-Knowledge is considered to be more valuable than gaining knowledge of the material world.The following prayer which is known as Gayatri Mantra is one such example of motivating Individuals to look inwards. Similarly, Socrates suggests, “Know thyself, and you will know the universe and the gods.”

Om Bhur Bhuva Suvah, Om tatsa vitur vareynyam

Bhargo Devasya dhee mahi dheeyo yo nah prachodayaat.

The Individual while firmly establishing his Individuality also takes complete responsibility for his actions.The Individual bears the burden for his own actions.

The Journey to Ultimate Individualism:

The Individual strives for self-reliance, learns to minimize the importance of all external relationships and concentrates upon developing an intimate relationship with his personal God.The following prayer is one such example of an Individual’s journey on the path of devotion (Bhakti).

Tva meva maata cha pitaa tva meva, Tva meva bandhu cha sakha tva meva,

Tva meva vidya, dravinam tva meva, Tva meva sarvam mama Deva Deva.

Devotion to God practically takes over, replaces and consumes the need for any other kind of external relationship such as man’s relationship to his mother, father, relatives, friends, and educational and material status.

The Goal of Absolute Individualism:

For the individual to win the battle of ‘Samsara’, to gain freedom from the cycle of birth and death, to declare victory over death and to finally reach the shore and complete the long and tiresome swim across the uncharted ocean, he is required to disentangle himself from the cobweb of relationships and set himself free. The following prayer known as Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra illustrates the point:

Om,Triyambakam,Yajamahe sugandhim pushti vardhanam,

Urvaaru kamiva bhandha naat mrutyor muksheeya amrutaat.

Such liberated Individual who had freed himself from all external relationships would be able to proclaim his True Identity and the following verse written by Shri Shankaracharya is an example of an Individual who had reached the Goal Of Absolute Individualism:

Na Mrityur, na Shankaa, na me Jaati bheydaH,

Pitaa naiva, me naiva Maataa, na Janma,

Na Bandhur,na Mitram, Gurur naiva SishyaH,

Chidaananda RupaH ShivO aHam, ShivO aHam.

Thus Indian Identity is none other than the identity of “SHIVA” whose Individualistic Identity is described as Sat+Chit+Ananda.

lord-rama-with-seetha-lakshmana-and-hanuman — **Whole Dude – Whole Individualism: The Doctrine of Individualism. In the epic poem of Ramayana, the concept of Individualism is vividly portrayed.**

In the Epic Poem of Ramayana, the concept of Individualism is vividly portrayed. Rama alone was required to live in the forest. He could have just refused to do so. No force upon earth could have moved Him but He made His own choice. Lakshmana made His own choice and accompanied His brother for a life in the forest. Rama made no decision about Seeta. He did not want her to accompany Him into the forest. Seeta made Her own decision. All of them express their own personal independence in unique manners.

**Whole Dude – Whole Individualism: The Doctrine of Individualism. The Man has no choice other than that of existing as an Individual with Individuality. His genome is unique and one of its own kind.**

Whole Dude – Whole Invention

The Indian Tradition recognizes ‘Light’ as the manifestation of Ultimate Reality known as Param Brahma and Indians worship all sources of light including that of a light bulb.

Whole Dude – Whole Invention:The Light Bulb Connection to the Reality of Existence. Deepam Jyoti Param Brahma – Light and Ultimate Reality. The Indian Tradition recognizes ‘Light’ as the manifestation of Ultimate Reality known as Param Brahma and Indians worship all sources of light including that of a light bulb.

JYOTI -Defining Indian Identity-The Light Bulb — Whole Dude – Whole Invention: The Light Bulb Connection to the Reality of existence. Indians celebrate the festival of “KARTHIGAI DEEPAM” . “KARTHIKAI DEEPAM” OR ‘KARTIKA DEEPAM’. Should man search inwards or search outwards to find God? I can search if and only if my existence is supported. For my existence, I depend upon the ability of plants called photo-reception.

Deepam Jyoti Parabrahma
Deepam Sarva tamopaham

Deepena Saadhyathe Sarvam
Sandhya Deepam Namostute

Thomas Alva Edison - 'The Light Bulb' Connection to Indian Identity — **Whole Dude – Whole Invention: The Light Bulb Connection. Thomas Alva Edison – A Great Inventor of Modern Times. His invention has connected me to my Indian Identity.**

Firstly,I want to give my thanks to Mr.Thomas Alva Edison,the great American inventor. He is most famous for his development of the first commercially practical incandescent lamp (1879). Perhaps his greatest contribution, however, was the development of the world’s first central-electric-light-power station.We owe him thanks for making the human existence pleasant and comfortable. I also give my thanks to Nikola Tesla who is indeed the Genius Who Lit the World.

**Whole Dude – Whole Invention:The Light Bulb Connection. While speaking about Light and Electricity, I also pay my homage to Nikola Tesla, The Genius Who Lit the World.**

What is this Light Bulb connection that may define the Indian Identity?

Whole Dude – Whole Invention: The Light Bulb Connection. Indian Tradition recognizes ‘Light’ as the manifestation of Ultimate Reality known as Param Brahma and Indians worship all sources of light including that of a Light Bulb. This Light Bulb appears lit. What is the source of its energy?

I grew up in India. People visit a variety of temples to worship and to seek the presence of God.They do that at homes as well.When I was a boy, one of my early observations was that, in the evening hours as it gets dark after the sunset, when I flip the switch to turn the light on, my mother would pay respects to the light bulb. It is almost like a reflex behavior. I asked my mother about it.The instant the light bulb comes to life, it becomes a source of light and being a source of light, it would represent God. My mother told me that she would be reminded of God’s presence when the light bulb is switched on. My grandmother had also done the same thing.

We worship the light bulb as it gives us the awareness and makes us conscious of the reality of God.

LIGHT AND CONSCIOUSNESS:

**Whole Dude – Whole Invention: Light is God, God is Light, the Light Bulb Connection to the Reality of Existence.**

Light or JYOTI in the Sanskrit language represents the Eternal Reality. Jyoti is our conscious, its our awareness and it connects us to the Creator. This consciousness permeates all entities that are created and it includes all the Five Elements of Mother Nature.

Consciousness is a function which enables a living organism to be aware of its own state of existence and to maintain that state of existence. Living organisms are aware of their need for an external source of energy to sustain their state of existence. Living organisms exist as ‘Energy Seekers’ and to exist they need connection with a ‘Energy Provider’. Consciousness is a biological function which establishes the connection between ‘Energy Seeker’ and ‘Energy Provider’. Because of this awareness, all entities would recognize and respond to their Creator, the Prime Source of Energy and the Controller of Energy. In the Old Testament Book of Exodus, Chapter 14 narrates the story of Moses leading the children of Israel on dry ground in the midst of Red Sea.

Whole Dude – Whole Invention: The Old Testament Book of Exodus, Chapter 14, verse 16 :”But lift up your rod, and stretch your hand over the Sea and divide it. And the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the midst of the Sea.”

Water one of the five elements of Nature has ‘awareness’, or ‘conscious’ of its Creator. Otherwise, how could Moses lead his people to ‘The Promised Land’ across the Sea? It is not just humans who possess the awareness of God. In India, in the State of Andhra Pradesh, there is a beautiful town known as SRI KALA HASTI. According to legend, at this place, a spider, a snake, an elephant, and a man worshiped Lord Shiva with an excellent sense of devotion.

Sri Kalahasti Temple at Sri Kalahasti, Andhra Pradesh, India. — Whole Dude – Whole Invention: The Light Bulb Connection. Sri Kalahasti temple, India. All living entities are ‘CONSCIOUS’ and are aware of their existence and their living environment. Living Entities are also ‘CONSCIOUS’ of the Creator. The legend at Sri Kalahasti establishes the awareness of creatures like a spider, a snake, and an elephant and their desire to seek the LORD.

Light is God, God is Light, the Light Bulb Connection to the Reality of Existence

Indians light up a lamp as a ritual to worship a deity of their choice. In several parts of the world and in various cultural traditions, the use of light is prevalent and is a part of ritualistic worship. In the Land of India, light is not only used as part of a ritual but also is directly worshiped with the belief that light represents God. Light is also worshiped in a personal form known as JYOTI, the sister of SKANDA and the daughter of Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati.

Goddess Jyothi, daughter of Parvati — Whole Dude – Whole Invention: Defining Indian Identity – The Light Bulb Connection. Deepam, Jyoti, or Light represents God. The personification of light is Goddess Jyoti, daughter of Parvati, the Divine Mother.

**Whole Dude – Whole Invention: Defining Indian Identity – The Light Bulb Connection**

Asato ma Sadgamaya

Tamaso ma Jyotirgamaya

Mrutyor ma Amrutamgamaya

Om, Shanti,Shanti,ShantiH.

Whole Dude – Whole Invention: Defining Indian Identity – The Light Bulb Connection

The above is a prayer to lead us towards Right Conduct, to lead us from darkness towards LIGHT (ETERNAL REALITY) and to lead us from death towards Eternal Life.

It is easy and simple to know the Indian Identity. Flip that light switch and let the ‘Light Bulb’ connect you to the Reality. The First Book of Moses called GENESIS, Chapter 1, verses 2, and 3 describe the creation of Light: Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light.

If light was not created, the physical matter could have simply existed as dark matter. I describe luminosity, the quality of giving off light as an event of creation.

Essence and Existence:

Man, the multicellular human organism exists as a physical, mental, social, moral, and spiritual being. Man’s existence is conditioned by the subjective reality called alternating periods of light and darkness known as day and night, and the unconditioned reality is that of Sun who shines with the same brightness all the time while man experiences Sunrise and Sunset.

**Whole Dude – Whole Invention: Defining Indian Identity – The Light Bulb Connection to the Reality of Existence.**

Whole Dude – Whole Invention: Defining Indian Identity – The Light Bulb Connection to the Reality of Existence. Indian Tradition recognizes ‘Light’ as the manifestation of Ultimate Reality known as Param Brahma and Indians worship all sources of light including that of a Light Bulb. This Light Bulb appears lit. What is the source of its energy?

Earthly Existence is synchronized by the creation of Day and Night

The Man’s Experience of Life in the Natural World

What it is to be a Substance? and What it is to Exist? We need to establish knowledge about the man on a firm basis and the information it provides must be tested for its accuracy and consistency with an external reality. We have to make the fundamental distinction between the living and the non-living matter. The scientific advances of the 19th and 20th centuries reinforced the materialistic position concerning the basic similarity of organic living and inorganic physical matter. The man is viewed as a product of natural evolution and is thought to be subject to the same laws of Physics and Chemistry or mechanistic principles.

We need a methodology to study philosophy and to understand philosophical statements. Logical Positivism, also known as Scientific Empiricism aims to clarify concepts in both everyday and scientific language. It describes analysis of language as the function of philosophy. This analysis of language and of concepts is important to understand questions of belief and ideology which affect what we think we ought to do individually and socially. I would use this method of ‘Applied Philosophy’ to analyze the concept of Spiritual Optics, the Spiritual dimension of the Man’s experience of Life in the Natural World.

The Beginning. The Story of Creation

**Whole Dude – Whole Invention: Earthly Existence is Synchronized by the Creation of Day and Night.**

The Holy Bible, The Old Testament, Book of Genesis, Chapter 1 (verses 1,3,4,5,14 and 15) describes the creation of day and night.

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light.

God saw that the light was good, and He separated the light from the darkness.

God called the light “day,” and the darkness He called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning – the first day.

And God said, “Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and years, and let them be lights in the expanse of the sky to give light on the earth.”

Whole Dude – Whole Invention: Earthly Existence is Synchronized by the Creation of Day and Night. .Are We Living in a Designer Universe? The Geocentric Model describes the Design Effect. Video Credit: NASA, Animation: James O’Donoghue (JAXA)

Explanation: How does your favorite planet spin? Does it spin rapidly around a nearly vertical axis, or horizontally, or backwards? The featured video animates NASA images of all eight planets in our Solar System to show them spinning side-by-side for an easy comparison. In the time-lapse video, a day on Earth — one Earth rotation — takes just a few seconds. Jupiter rotates the fastest, while Venus spins not only the slowest (can you see it?), but backwards. The inner rocky planets, across the top, most certainly underwent dramatic spin-altering collisions during the early days of the Solar System. The reasons why planets spin and tilt as they do remains a topic of research with much insight gained from modern computer modeling and the recent discovery and analysis of hundreds of exoplanets: planets orbiting other stars.

Whole Dude – Whole Invention: Earthly Existence is Synchronized by the Creation of Day and Night. The First Book of Moses called GENESIS, Chapter 1, verse 4 :”And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness.”

Different planets have different rates of rotation. We use Earth’s spin to define coordinate systems for locating objects both on the ground and the sky. The timekeeping system that we use is related to the rotation of the Earth. My human existence in this Universe is synchronized with the rotational spin of the Earth. The spin gives me alternating periods of light and darkness known as Day and Night while the Sun is shining all the time.

Synchronization of the External and Internal Environment of the Living Things

The Biological Clock – Every living system studied behaves as if it contains a highly dependable clock. The specialized properties of this clock suggest that it involves some unique biological mechanism indissociable from life itself.

**Whole Dude – Whole Invention:** Biological Clock is an internal-timing mechanism to synchronize biological functions.

The Biological Clock is a self-sustained internal timing mechanism that controls cyclic patterns, or rhythms, of a living organism. All organisms have this ability to synchronize their existence to events in both their internal or external environment. Because of this internal timing, certain physiological and behavioural events vary in intensity. Such time-dependent variability is expressed as a rhythm, or oscillation, with a frequency equal to that of the underlying biological clock. Biological clocks time the Solar day, the period of the Earth’s rotation relative to the Sun.

Whole Dude – Whole Invention: Earthly Existence is Synchronized by the Creation of Day and Night. THE ETERNAL LAW OF AGING: THE EPIGENETIC CLOCK, HORVATH’S CLOCK IS A BIOLOGICAL CLOCK TO MEASURE THE AGE OF MOST HUMAN TISSUES, CELL TYPES, AND ORGANS IN THE SAME INDIVIDUAL WHICH CAN HELP IN PREDICTING THE AGING PROCESS.

The Biological Rhythm – Biological Rhythms represent the periodic biological fluctuation in an organism that corresponds to and is in response to periodic environmental change. The most important example of such environmental change is that of the cyclical variations in the relative position of the Earth to the Sun and the immediate effect of this variation is that of night alternating with day or the change from darkness to light. Biological Rhythms that occur once a day are called Circadian (Latin circa:”about,” di: “day,”), Solar day, diel, daily, diurnal (day-active), or nycthemeral rhythm. Circadian rhythms are the most pervasive rhythms regulating many events for every day in the lives of most living organisms. Circadian rhythms are synchronized to an external time-giving stimulus. The external stimulus that is important for most living organisms is that of Sunrise and Sunset, the daily light-dark cycle determined by Earth’s rotation.

The Day Active or Diurnal Rhythm Regulating the Man

Whole Dude – Whole Invention: Earthly Existence is Synchronized by the Creation of Day and Night: THE HUMAN ORGANISM RUNS ITS LIVING FUNCTIONS AS IF OPERATED BY A PRECISE TIMEKEEPING DEVICE OR BIOLOGICAL CLOCK. MAN’S EXPERIENCE OF TIME IS RELATED TO SUN’S APPARENT MOTIONS IN THE SKY. MAN KNOWS THE REALITY OF TIME BECAUSE OF AN ILLUSION THAT CAUSES DAY AND NIGHT GIVING MAN THE PERCEPTION OF SUN’S APPARENT MOTION WHILE CONCEALING THE REALITY OF SUN’S MOTION IN THE MILKY WAY GALAXY.

Within the 24-hour cycle (circadian), a person usually sleeps approximately 8 hours and is awake 16 hours. In man, the daily alteration of sleep and wakefulness is accompanied by many changes, including activities of the nervous and endocrine systems and the liver and kidneys. Daily variations occur in body temperature, in heart and respiratory rates, and in blood pressure and composition of the blood.There are daily variations in chemical syntheses and in cell divisions.

Whole Dude – Whole Invention: Earthly Existence is Synchronized by the Creation of Day and Night: There are two kinds of biological responses or rhythms. 1. The activities like Sleep and Wakefulness are related to the fluctuations of physical environment such as darkness, and light, or night and day variation, and 2. The rhythms such as heartbeat, and respiratory rate occur without external geophysical correlates as a consequence of the movements of the Earth.

During the wakeful hours, mental and physical functions are most active and tissue-cell growth increases. During sleep, voluntary muscle activities nearly disappear and there is a decrease in metabolic rate, respiration, heart rate, and blood pressure. The activity of digestive system increases during the resting period, but that of the urinary system decreases. Hormones secreted by the body, such as the stimulant epinephrine (adrenaline) are released in maximal amounts about two hours before awakening so that the body is prepared for activity.

Whole Dude – Whole Invention: Earthly Existence is Synchronized by the Creation of Day and Night. The Eternal Law of Aging: HUMAN EXISTENCE IS SYNCHRONIZED WITH DAILY CHANGES IN THE EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENT IN RESPONSE TO DAYLIGHT OR DARK.

If a person tries to break the circadian rhythm by ignoring sleep for a number of days, psychological disorders begin to arise.

The Laws of Nature

Whole Dude – Whole Invention: Earthly Existence is Synchronized by the Creation of Day and Night. THE ETERNAL LAW OF AGING: THERE ARE SEVERAL THEORIES ABOUT SENESCENCE. APART FROM THE MEASUREMENT OF CHRONOLOGICAL AGE, IT WOULD BE VERY USEFUL TO ASSESS AND MEASURE THE BIOLOGICAL AGE OF THE HUMAN ORGANISM AS THAT WOULD HELP TO PREDICT AGE-RELATED CHANGES IN THE STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION AND INVENT INTERVENTION MECHANISMS TO REDIRECT OR REGULATE THE AGING PROCESS.

Diverse aspects of human physiology and behaviour show that human existence is synchronized with the Laws of Nature. When we live in accordance with the law, we get a chance to know the provider of the law.

Simon Cyrene

**Whole Dude – Whole Invention: Earthly Existence id Synchronized by the Creation of Day and Night. MAN’S EXISTENCE IS SHAPED BY FLAT EARTH WITH ARCHED DOME EXPERIENCE.**

Whole Dude – Whole Hospitality

The War Memorial at Walong, Arunachal Pradesh. — **Whole Dude – Whole Hospitality: Defining Indian Identity – The Tradition of Hospitality. Honoring our fallen soldiers. The War Memorial in Walong, Arunachal Pradesh**

Whole Dude – Whole Hospitality: I had the wonderful opportunity to serve in the North East Frontier Agency (NEFA), Arunachal Pradesh during 1972-73, after Indian Army’s victory in Bangladesh. I camped at Walong visiting troops.

**Whole Dude – Whole Hospitality: A view from a hill top near Walong, Arunachal Pradesh.**

**Whole Dude – Whole Hospitality: During the 1962 Chinese aggression Indian Army valiantly resisted the enemy’s attack in a historical battle at Namti Plains, near Walong, Arunachal Pradesh.**

**Whole Dude – Whole Hospitality: Suspension bridge across Lohit River near Chigwinti, Arunachal Pradesh.**

Whole Dude – Whole Hospitality: This is a picture taken at Headquarters ‘D’ Sector, prior to my visit to Chigwinti, and Walong. I am seen here along with Major Deedar Singh, the Unit Adjutant, and Captain Roop Singh an Assistant Company Commander standing in the middle.

This entry is dedicated to the memory of those brave men who gave their precious lives fighting the massive Chinese aggression in 1962. I experienced the traditional Indian hospitality at a forward Company location in Arunachal Pradesh (North East Frontier Agency) and my memories are fresh after a lapse of nearly 35 years and the reason is that I still feel the same passion to serve our men who fight for our country.

**Service Award presented by all Officers D Sector, Establishment 22**

**Whole Dude – Whole Hospitality: Defining Indian Identity – The Tradition of Hospitality. A view of Lohit River at Walong, Anjaw District.**

In 1962 while the Chinese attacked India, I was a first year student studying for a Bachelor of Science degree (3- Year Bachelor’s Degree Course) at Government Giriraj Arts College, Nizamabad, Andhra Pradesh. India was taken aback by this unprovoked and unexpected invasion across the Himalayan Frontier. There was a spontaneous reaction from people across our nation. Nizamabad was no exception and the Giriraj students took out a procession to condemn the enemy. I was not a student leader but I was the son of the Principal of the College. That placed me in the very first row of students who led the procession. At that time, I did not visualize myself that I would be wearing the Olive Green Indian Army Uniform.

**Whole Dude – Whole Hospitality: Special Frontier Force – Lohit River: “WALONG WILL NEVER FALL AGAIN.”**

By year 1972, I completed two years of service in Indian Army and the great moment in my life arrived when I stood before the War Memorial in WALONG. The following verses were inscribed on it:

The sentinel hills that round us stand

bear witness that we loved our land.

Amidst shattered rocks and flaming pine

We fought and died on Namti Plain.

O Lohit, gently by us glide

pale stars above us softly shine

as we sleep here in sun and rain.

**Whole Dude – Whole Hospitality: Defining Indian Identity – The Tradition of Hospitality.**

Let us keep our collective memory afresh and pay tribute to these loyal sons of our land.

The Tradition of Hospitality in India:

Hospitality is a fairly popular tradition for a variety of cultures across our globe. In India the tradition was well established a long time ago and we elevated it to a degree which may not be seen anywhere else in this world. The Vedic statement ” Athiti Devo Bhava ” is a thought that finds its expression only in our Land. The word ‘Athiti’ defines the guest as a person who could show up at your home without a prior notice or formal invitation and on a day and at a time of his own choice. Our literature is full of stories about this great tradition of hospitality and the episode described in the story of MAHA BHARATA shows the importance of preserving this tradition. Princess Draupadi was overwhelmed by the arrival of a large number of guests , while she and the Pandava Princes lost their kingdom and were living in the forest. She did not want to fail in her duty of being a good hostess. She was desperate and she met this challenge by earnestly praying to Lord Krishna. Upholding the principle of hospitality is very important to Lord Krishna and He gracefully provided the help Draupadi needed to serve her guests in accordance with our Dharma (Right Conduct). Her adherence to the tradition of hospitality truly defines the Indian Identity.

Most of you would have experienced some act of hospitality or the other and I want to narrate a simple act of hospitality that I experienced at CHINGAWANTY ( or CHIGWINTI ) in Arunachal Pradesh and would take this opportunity to speak of my memorable experience at this forward Company location and describe this as our Indian Identity.

The Tradition of Hospitality at Chingawanty (CHIGWINTI ):

The Company Commander Major.G B Valenkar was the recipient of VIR CHAKRA award for his role in Operation Eagle, the military action that initiated the Liberation of Bangladesh in 1971 with attacks on the enemy posts in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. During Operation Eagle, we had worked together in the South Column Unit under the Command of Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan.

Major Valenkar briefed me about the traditional hospitality of the men of his Company. Before the dinner was served, he told me that the men would continue to serve food till such time I announce that I am fully satiated and that I need no further servings. Then, they would bring one more final serving to ensure that I am truly satiated and well fed. I wanted to test the men and find out for myself their devotion to their hospitality tradition. After dinner was announced, I mentioned my preference for bread.

Instead of ‘chapatis’, I told the men hosting my dinner, that I would like to be served with poori (soft, fluffy, deep-fried Indian Bread) to go with my meal. The dishes were served piping hot and the fried poori were made one after the other and a fresh serving would arrive just before I would finish the previous serving. The food was delicious and the mountain weather was cool and refreshing and I was young and had a healthy appetite. I continued eating while having a pleasant conversation with Major.Valenkar and after several servings, the man stood before me respectfully and asked me to grant him some additional time before he could bring forth the next serving. He mentioned that the cook had run out of the dough he had prepared for the evening meal. I responded saying that I really need no further servings and asked him not to bother about preparing more dough. The man submitted that it would not be fair on my part to stop him at that juncture and stated that I could only stop him from serving only at a time when he is able to provide more servings. In the Indian Hospitality tradition, the guest is also expected to give his host a reasonable opportunity to fulfill his obligation and the host has also a right to derive a sense of satisfaction by observing the rules of hospitality. I had to concede and in a little while, he resumed his service. After eating to my heart’s content, I told him that I am really satiated. He agreed to bring in the final serving and he passed in the test and he did not give up until he made sure that I am fed till such time that I am fully fed.

I am speaking of this hearty meal to just give you a chance to taste the passion that keeps us united and we relish the opportunity to serve our Land and defend its traditions of Valor and Hospitality.

Annam Brahma raso Vishnu pakto Devo Maheshvarah

Evam samchintya bhumjaano, drushti dosho na lipyate.

**Whole Dude – Whole Hospitality: The Hospitality Tradition is based upon the concept of Whole Food or Annapurna, the Goddess of Food**

The above verse is asking us to consider both, the meal, and the person who is partaking the meal as God.

Whole Dude – Whole Tradition

Lord Krishna in Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 11, Visvarupa-Darsana Yoga, The Vision of the Universal Form, verse 55 proclaims “Advesham Sarva Bhuteshu”- Being devoid of enmity towards all living entities is a must and laid the foundational principle of Ahimsa. Krishna is most popularly known as Govinda, a provider of a great sense of Joy to cattle.

Defining Indian Identity-Ahimsa-Mahatma Gandhi — **Whole Dude – Whole Tradition: Defining Indian Identity. The Tradition of Ahimsa. Mahatma Gandhi was a staunch advocate of Cow Protection and Prevention of Animal Cruelty.**

Mahatma Gandhi applied the principles of ‘Ahimsa’ to fight for India’s Freedom.

“Cow protection to me is not mere protection of the cow. It means protection of all that lives and is helpless and weak in the world.” -Mahatma Gandhi.  

Defining Indian Identity-Ahimsa-Lord Gautama Buddha — **Whole Dude – Whole Tradition: Defining Indian Identity. The Tradition of Ahimsa. Lord Gautama Buddha preached Nonviolence and Kindness towards all living things.**

Siddhartha Gautama Buddha lived in India, c. 563 B.C. – c. 483 B.C. was the founder of Buddhism.

Lord Mahavira - The Tradition of Ahimsa — Whole Dude – Whole Tradition: Defining Indian Identity. The Tradition of Ahimsa. LORD MAHAVIRA – Jainism is founded in the 6th century B.C. emphasized the importance of reverence for all living things.

Lord Mahavira – Jainism is founded in the 6th century B.C. emphasized the importance of reverence for all living things.

In the ancient land of India, the tradition and practice of ‘Ahimsa'(noninjury) has been well established. This entry is not intended to speak about the greatness of Lord Mahavira, Lord Gautama Buddha or Mahatma Gandhi. Their contributions are well-known and well-respected by all. As a beneficiary of this great tradition, I want to claim that Ahimsa helps humans as much as it promotes the well-being of animals. Animals give us a chance to learn and practice the habit of showing compassion. Animals may not be able to speak and communicate their fears, pain, and suffering. But they provide us with the skills to listen and know the emotion of fear. Animals give us the ability to discern pain when we are not in a position to speak for ourselves. I want to describe as to how a person, experienced in preventing cruelty to animals, is well equipped to rescue humans.  

Child Abduction and the story of a miraculous rescue: 

Swami Karunyananda 1894 - 1997 - The Tradition of Ahimsa. — Whole Dude – Whole Tradition: Swami Karunyananda ( One who delights himself or experiences a sense of Joy by showing Karuna or Compassion. His birth name was Venkata Subbiah. His birthplace was Kammavarpalayam, a tiny village in Madras or Tamil Nadu State of India. He founded and established Sri Gowthami Jeevakarunya Sangham at Rajahmundry during 1940.

Swami Karunyananda, One who delights himself or experiences a sense of Joy by showing Karuna or Compassion. His birth name was Venkata Subbiah. His birthplace was Kammavarpalayam, a tiny village in Madras or Tamil Nadu State of India. He founded and established Sri Gowthami Jeevakarunya Sangham at Rajahmundry during 1940.

Image result for gowthami jeevakarunya sangam, rajahmundry — **Whole Dude – Whole Tradition: Defining Indian Identity – The Tradition of Ahimsa**

I am narrating my personal story to recall an event and express my gratitude to a person whose name is not known to me but whom I remember for his timely intervention to rescue me. Otherwise, my life’s journey would have proceeded on an altogether different track. This very simple, down to earth, the unassuming person acted in a manner that had made a lasting impression on my mind and I am able to recollect the incident without any effort.

In 1951, that is 56 years ago, I lived in the town of Rajahmundry, East Godavari district of the present State of Andhra Pradesh. The town is on the left bank of river Godavari which enters the town from the north and flows towards the south. I lived in a residential neighborhood known by the name Innispet and it is located next to the river bank.

Those days, many of the streets had no given names and the houses had no designated house numbers. The part of the street where I lived was later named as ‘KALABARGI VARI’ street. Our house was built by my grandfather (Late)Shri.R.Subbarao who had earlier worked as the District Public Prosecutor. I lived with my grandmother Smt. Lakshmi Narasamma, my parents and two elder brothers. My great-grandmother and my grandmother’s sister had also lived in this mansion. My younger brother and sister are not yet born. I may also mention that my father had chosen my personal name to be Rudra Narasimham and he had made this choice to please and honor my grandmother. For this reason, I had also enjoyed her affectionate treatment.

At the age of three and a half years, I was able to walk and move freely. My elder brothers had already joined schools. I whined about it and my father got me enrolled at King George Elementary School which was on the same street at a short distance from my home. The name King George reminds us of our colonial past. The School had a very modest structure. There was no kindergarten class and hence I joined the grade 1 class.

A little while after the monsoon season had finished, the School was temporarily closed because of a panic created by a string of child abduction incidents. My father was in the habit of going out for an evening walk. That day, the evening was cool and pleasant and the sky was clear. I insisted that I would accompany my father during his evening walk. He tried to talk me out of it and more so out of concern about the child lifting incidents. He left for his walk leaving me at home. I slipped out of the house and I thought I would be able to follow him from behind while he walked ahead of me.

I was walking south on the street and very soon lost sight of him. I kept walking, went past an intersection and at the next intersection, the street had ended. I made a right turn as I had noticed that a lot of people were walking in that direction towards the ‘Main Street’ of our town. The streets had no sidewalks and the pedestrians walk all over the street and there was not much of vehicular traffic.

Soon after I made the right turn, I was suddenly lifted up by a stranger and was handed over to a woman who accompanied him. I instantaneously recognized that I was in some big trouble. I started crying loudly but was not able to express my sense of fear in words. The pedestrian crowd around me paid no attention and my crying aroused no particular concern.

This terrible situation suddenly changed when a man wearing simple, white, hand-spun garments (‘KHADI’) came by riding on a bike. He spontaneously reacted to my crying. In my speechless voice, like any other dumb animal, I could communicate to him that I was very apprehensive and that I was gripped with a sense of fear and pain. He read my emotions correctly and he lost no time and decided to intervene.

He stopped the pair and started grilling them with questions and insisted that I was not their child. They initially argued that I was their child. My rescuer did not relent a bit and eventually, he demanded that the pair should accompany him to the Police Station to verify my identity. I remained a silent spectator and the sense of fear would not let me speak up the fact that I was not their child and that woman was not my mother.

As the heat of the argument built up, the pair decided to get away and the woman dropped me down leaving me with the man on the bike. I was at ease in the company of this unknown man and the sense of fear vanished and I stopped crying.

He placed me on the front bar of his bike. He inquired about my address. The only information that I could provide was that my house was located near a doctor’s clinic. Meantime, the evening had already turned into night. He decided to return me to my home. Before doing so, he took me to a street vendor selling sweets and snacks. He asked me to pick an item of my choice. He paid the merchant. After I finished eating my snack, I felt a lot more relaxed and was ready for the bike ride through the neighborhood.

After spending some time conversing with me, he began his search at the north end of the street where I lived. The street was fairly long and had several houses on either side. Those were the days when we had no television; before retiring for sleep, people were in the habit of relaxing in front of their homes after it gets dark. House after house, he was checking with people and was inquiring about any missing child.

Finally, we arrived at the intersection where my house stood on the street corner. At that point, to recognize my house was very easy for me. I saw my grandmother and my mother standing on the front porch with a very worried expression on their faces. The search was over and I simply jumped out from the bike and literally ran into my home. I was not around when my mother and grandmother thanked him for bringing me back home safely and they were shocked to know that I was briefly got abducted. Later, my mother tried to gently admonish me and asked if I would ever go out alone all by myself. By then, I had lost the fear that gripped my mind and I was happy with my experience of meeting this man who got me back home and very boldly I answered my mother that I am not afraid of going out on my own.  

This unknown man worked for a charitable organization by the name “Sri Gowthami Jeeva Karunya Sangham.” This organization provides animal shelters and a variety of humanitarian services. The employees patrol the streets on bikes to detect and to prevent cruelty to animals.

His belief in Ahimsa or Non-Injury, his personal experience in dealing with the pain and suffering of dumb animals had also given him the insight to recognize my plight when I was lifted up from the street. On a crowded street, while I was snatched, no one had paid attention to my cries, but for this person, the abduction would have proceeded unnoticed.

I describe that this person has the Indian Identity that I cherish and value. This Identity springs from our long-established Cultural tradition of Ahimsa. I would consider him to be a true practitioner of Ahimsa.

I have not personally known or seen Sri. Karunyananda (1894- 1997) who established Sri Gowthami Jeeva Karunya Sangham in Rajahmundry during the year 1940. Karunyananda was at Swami Sivananda’s Ashram at Rishikesh in northern India. Mahatma Gandhi visited Rishikesh and addressed the group of young ‘sanyasins’ at the Ashram. He encouraged them to render humanitarian service and serve others to practice the principle of ‘Ahimsa’ which involves treating all living entities with a sense of respect and dignity.

This concept of ‘Ahimsa’ reached me through the service rendered by a man who practiced the principle of ‘Ahimsa’ and gained the ability to recognize pain and suffering even when there is no verbal communication to express that condition.   

Dr. R. Rudra Narasimham, B.Sc., M.B.B.S.,  

Danavaipeta Municipal High School, Rajahmundry, East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh, India,  

S.S.L.C.,  Class  of March   1961.

Pada Vandanam, Pada Namaskaram, Pada Archanam, Pada Sevanam, Pada Puja or Worship of Feet:

Special Frontier Force – Establishment Number. 22 – Operation Eagle – Liberation War of Bangladesh 1971:

A personal tribute to Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan, an Islamic Scholar who served in Olive Green Uniform. The Imam of Friday Prayer in Kaptai on December 17, 1971

Pada Vandanam, Pada Namaskaram, Pada Archanam, Pada Sevanam, Pada Puja or the Worship of Feet:

What is Individualism?

The Foundation for Individualism:

The Supremacy of Individual:

The Practice of Individualism:

The Journey to Ultimate Individualism:

The Goal of Absolute Individualism:

Deepam Jyoti ParabrahmaDeepam Sarva tamopaham

Deepena Saadhyathe SarvamSandhya Deepam Namostute

What is this Light Bulb connection that may define the Indian Identity?

LIGHT AND CONSCIOUSNESS:

Light is God, God is Light, the Light Bulb Connection to the Reality of Existence

Essence and Existence:

Earthly Existence is synchronized by the creation of Day and Night

The Man’s Experience of Life in the Natural World

The Beginning. The Story of Creation

Synchronization of the External and Internal Environment of the Living Things

The Day Active or Diurnal Rhythm Regulating the Man

The Laws of Nature

Let us keep our collective memory afresh and pay tribute to these loyal sons of our land.

The Tradition of Hospitality in India:

The Tradition of Hospitality at Chingawanty (CHIGWINTI ):

Annam Brahma raso Vishnu pakto Devo Maheshvarah

Evam samchintya bhumjaano, drushti dosho na lipyate.

“Cow protection to me is not mere protection of the cow. It means protection of all that lives and is helpless and weak in the world.” -Mahatma Gandhi.

Child Abduction and the story of a miraculous rescue:

This concept of ‘Ahimsa’ reached me through the service rendered by a man who practiced the principle of ‘Ahimsa’ and gained the ability to recognize pain and suffering even when there is no verbal communication to express that condition.

Deepam Jyoti Parabrahma
Deepam Sarva tamopaham

Deepena Saadhyathe Sarvam
Sandhya Deepam Namostute

“Cow protection to me is not mere protection of the cow. It means protection of all that lives and is helpless and weak in the world.” -Mahatma Gandhi.  

Child Abduction and the story of a miraculous rescue: 

This concept of ‘Ahimsa’ reached me through the service rendered by a man who practiced the principle of ‘Ahimsa’ and gained the ability to recognize pain and suffering even when there is no verbal communication to express that condition.   