Dear Parents,
After the Deepavali break, it was refreshing to hear the children talk of their celebrations at home. Our schedule was as follows:
Opening Prayers:
* Om Sahanā vavatu śloka
* Om Sree Ganeśaya Namaha, Sree Saraswatyai Namaha, Sree Sat Gurubhyo Namaha.
* Daily prayers (as given in the 'My Prayers' book)
Ślokās: We finished the last 3 verses (phalaśruti) of the Mahālakshmyāśtakam. We hope they practice all 11 verses regularly at home.
Mahabharata: Having given much importance to the story and characters, we thought it would be a good idea to introduce some discussion. Our discussion this week was an in-depth look in to Karna's and Krishna's lives. The circumstances surrounding their birth, their childhood trials and tribulations, the highs and lows and everything that brought them to their present selves. Karna, known for his generosity, was an abandoned child, brought up by parents of lowly birth, earning him the nickname Sutaputra.
The rejection from Drona(to take him on as a student), to the curse he received from Sage Bhargava(for having lied about being a Brahmin) to the curse he received from the Brahmin (for having accidentally killed his cow), Karna stewed in self pity and anger against the society that treated him unfairly. On the other hand, Krishna, also having separated from his parents at birth, his subsequent childhood among cowherds and a late education with Rishi Sandeepany, never once whined or complained about his plight.
While Karna decided to side with his friend Duryodhana, Krishna did not choose sides in the war. He gave the choice to the Pandavas and the Kauravas. While the Kauravas were happy to have Krishna's mighty army, the Pandavas chose their dearest cousin to be their guide. What good is a mighty army without its fearless leader to guide them? Just as we understand that a strong body is useless without a sound mind.
Knowing fully well that Duryodhana used underhanded tricks on the Pandavas, Karna stood by his friend. While the loyalty can be commended, using skill for unjust reasons only negates the accrued good. Krishna, having altered many a situation to suit him, never swerved in his Dharma.
The topic of Shreyas and Preyas will be discussed in the next class.
Bhagavad Gita: Chanted verses 7 & 8 with Swamiji's guidance through recording.
Please have the children do their daily prayers regularly and also practice the ślokas and Gita chanting.
Wish you all a safe, and happy Thanksgiving!!
See you all on Friday Dec 4th.
Pranāms,
Viji Lakshmi and Nivedita
Friday Grade 6 sevikas
