Grahanam: The Science and Spirituality of Eclipses in Hindu Tradition
The Adiveda Weekly #142
Hari Aum Sadhakas,
Eclipse, or Grahanam in Sanskrit, have long been regarded as both astronomical events and powerful spiritual phenomena in Hindu tradition. While Aryabhatta provided a scientific explanation for eclipses as early as the 5th century, ancient sages embedded their knowledge within mythological narratives to make it accessible to the masses. The Vedas, particularly the Rig Veda, document eclipses with remarkable accuracy, detailing their effects on nature, human health, and cosmic energy. Far from mere superstition, traditional Hindu practices during eclipses such as fasting, mantra chanting, and purification rituals, are now being validated by modern science, which recognizes changes in atmospheric conditions, microbial activity, and human psychology during these celestial events.
As we approach the upcoming solar eclipse on March 29, 2025, let us delve into the wisdom of our ancients, uncovering the hidden scientific truths behind Hindu eclipse traditions.
-Adiveda Team
Newsletter Contents - This newsletter contains the following sections in given order:
1 - Weekly Blog 6 - Important Dates of the week 11 - Weekly Astro Guide
2 - Question of the Week 7 - Books by Vanamali Mataji 12 - Ayurvedic Tips
3 - The Hindu way of Life 8 - Satsang by Vanamali Mataji 13 - Yogic Living
4 - Reflection of the Week 9 - Understanding with Mataji 14 - Prenatal Yoga
5 - Mantra of the Week 10 - Learning with Mataji 15 - Contacts
Weekly Blog
Question Of The Week
Q - How do Karma and Reincarnation influence ethical living in Sanatana Dharma?
A - In Sanatana Dharma, Karma teaches that every action has consequences, shaping future experiences, while Reincarnation ensures the soul is reborn based on past deeds. This understanding fosters ethical living by encouraging Dharma (righteousness), Ahimsa (non-violence), and Satya (truthfulness) to create positive karma. People act selflessly, knowing their deeds influence their next birth and spiritual evolution. The ultimate goal is Moksha (liberation), breaking free from the cycle of birth and rebirth through righteous living, self-discipline, and devotion.
Do send us your questions via the comment section or through live interaction with Vanamali Mataji on Instagram.
The Hindu Way of Life
Tat Tvam Asi (เคคเคคเฅ เคคเฅเคตเคฎเฅ เค เคธเคฟ) โ "You Are That" (Chandogya Upanishad)
The Sanatana way of life based on this principle teaches that the divine essence (Brahman) exists within all beings, fostering unity, compassion, and self-realization. By seeing oneself in others, one naturally practices Ahimsa (non-violence), truthfulness, and selfless service. True fulfillment comes not from external pursuits but through inner wisdom, meditation, and living in harmony with the universe.
Reflection of the Week
True positive thinking is not just about seeking the best but embracing whatever comes as the best for our growth. It stems from the wisdom that every experience, whether pleasant or challenging, is a result of our Karma and carries a hidden lesson. Instead of resisting lifeโs flow, accepting each moment with gratitude and inner strength transforms obstacles into opportunities. This mindset leads to peace, resilience, and spiritual evolution.
Mantra of the Week
เฅ เค เคธเคคเฅ เคฎเคพ เคธเคฆเฅเคเคฎเคฏเฅค เคคเคฎเคธเฅ เคฎเคพ เคเฅเคฏเฅเคคเคฟเคฐเฅเคเคฎเคฏ เฅค เคฎเฅเคคเฅเคฏเฅเคฐเฅเคฎเคพเคฎเฅเคคเค เคเคฎเคฏ เฅฅ
Om Asato Maa Sad-Gamaya |
Tamaso Maa Jyotir-Gamaya |
Mrtyor-Maa Amrtam Gamaya |
Lead me From the unreal to the real. From darkness to light and from death to immortality.
Important Dates This Week
โ Paapmochani Ekadashi - Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
โ Surya Grahan - Saturday Mar 29, 2025
Books by Vanamali Mataji:
The Rishis
This book explores the lives and teachings of the revered sages or Rishis who have given us the incredible โDharmaโ known as โSanatana Dharmaโ. It further celebrates their diverse philosophies, offering readers a rich tapestry of wisdom that continues to inspire seekers today. Also available as audio book.
This book is available for purchase and can be delivered worldwide. If you are interested in purchasing copies of any of Vanamaliโs books, please contact vanamali2@gmail.com.
Also available as audio book are Sri Rama Lila and Sri Hanuman Lila. Narrated by Vanamali Mataji, listen to them on Spotify or JioSaavn.
Vanamali Mataji in Satsang
In Her Bhagavad Gita Discourse, Vanamali Mataji shares beautiful insights from every chapter. She allows our minds to understand this ever relevant guidebook and thus helps us to navigate our own daily battles. The introduction video is available in full on YouTube and gives the background information of Shri Bhagwad Gita.
The entire Discourse, shared chapter by chapter, was professionally recorded and is made available on a donation basis. For those interested in receiving the recordings on a weekly basis, please contact vanamalibhagavadgita@gmail.com.
To follow along the Discourse, Vanamali Mataji recommends reading Vanamaliโs โSrimad Bhagavad Gitaโ, as well as the commentary โNitya Yogaโ. If you would like to purchase a copy, please contact vanamali2@gmail.com. Books ship internationally.
Understanding with Vanamali Mataji
Vanamali Mataji has a series of talks on the Uddhava Gita . Lets uncover the secrets of Uddhava Gita which emphasizes the importance of detachment, devotion, and self-realization, guiding individuals on their spiritual journey towards enlightenment and ultimate union with the divine. These talks are available both on Instagram and Youtube.
Learning with Vanamali Mataji
Vanamali Mataji explains Shashtras
Weekly Astrology Guide
To receive your personal reading, contact Amit on WhatsApp - (+91) 954-841-1670 .
Ayurvedic Health Tip of the Week - Toxins in the Environment
The sad truth is much of our air, food, water, and belongings can contain various levels of toxicants these days, depending on the material they've been made from, the places they've been grown or sourced, etc. I have a theory that this is why certain neurogenerative conditions appear to be on the rise these days. So what can we do about this?
- Filter your drinking and cooking water
- Be extremely cautious around storing food in plastics. Never heat up food in plastics and avoid buying hot takeaway food as they will probably deliver the food to you in plastic-coated/styrofoam containers. Carry your own glass/steel/ceramic crockery into which you can take away food and store it at home. Stop cooking with plastic spatulas and non-stick cookware. Switch all of these out to steel, ceramic, iron, stone, mud or any natural materail.
Our trusted Naturopath is: Dr. Poorna Menon, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
Disclaimer: Please note this is not medical advice - please follow the advice of your practitioner before you make any changes that could impact your health.
Yogic Living - Sacred Breath Challenge!
Regular practice of Asana & Pranayama is a must for any sadhaka on the path of yoga. Even at the age of 85 Vanamali Mataji practices Surya Namaskar, Yoga Asanas & Pranayama everyday without fail. The "Surya Namaskar Challenge" is a 12 day introductory course offered by Hub of Yoga in which you will learn the sequence step by step, practice with correct breathing and invocation of mantras, and gradually build up to 12 full rounds by the final day. The Program started from Monday, 27th January 2025! and available to all yoga Sadhakas on donation basis, sign up here "Surya Namaskar Challenge"
Joining prenatal yoga classes is a wonderful way to enhance physical well-being, reduce stress, and prepare the body for childbirth. These classes offer emotional support, improve flexibility, and promote relaxation, fostering a stronger mind-body connection during pregnancy. Contact for more details - (+91) 832-796-6554
How to connect with Mataji & Trusted Contacts
Instagram: VANAMALIKRISHNA
EVERY Sunday at 11am IST Mataji will host a live Q&A on Her Instagram page!
YouTube: Vanamali Matajiโs Youtube
To purchase Vanamaliโs Books: vanamali2@gmail.com
For Adiveda Retreats & Classes: Adiveda Website | (+91) 816-991-5870
Learn Sanskrit from expert - Please contact Athul Shrirag - (+91) 906-165-3308 - athulshriragkr@gmail.com
For an authentic astrology reading with our Adiveda Vedic Astrologer Amit, please contact: (+91) 954-841-1670
At your service,
The Adiveda Team