Monthly Newsletter and News updates from Srirangam Srimath Andavan Ashramam

28th July 2003

Report on Chaturmasya Sankalpam of Srimath Andavan Swamigal

A  Brief report on Chaturmasya Sankalpam  celebrations at Alwarthirunagari of Srimath Andavan Swamigal. 18th July 2003 was a great day in the history of Srirangam Srimath Andavan Ashramam at Alwarthirunagari, the sacred place of Sri Nammalwar, our Ashramam has its own residential property.  A couple of old houses on the outer street of Sri Aadhinaathar Temple were bought and with the support of TVS family, a fully renovated building has been consecrated by  His Holiness to accommodate both Srimath Andavan Ashramam and Sri Ranganatha Paduka Vidyalaya. Devotees from all over India, including a large contingent from Mumbai, started arriving one day before itself to witness the commencement of Chatumasya Sankalpam of His Holiness on 18th July.  The renovated buildings with all the facilities have come out very nicely, thanks to the coordination efforts done by our NEC Chairman Sri R Rajagopal and the efforts of a dedicated team workers deputed by T.V.S., who worked day and night for the last 2 months to complete the facility to be ready for occupation well before the commencement of Sankalpam. Opposite to our Ashramam is the famous  Sri Aadhinaathar Temple, within which lies the famous "Urangaapuli" tamarind tree, which was the abode of Sri Nammalwar and from where the famous Thiruvoimozhi paasurams originated.  This tree continues to exist even today from the time Nammalvar around 5000 years ago.

Behind our Ashramam is Tambirabarani River, which is the lifeline of the entire Tirunelveli District. In these pleasant surroundings our Ashramam started functioning at Alwarthirunagari, which is central to the famous Nava Thirupathi Divyadesams.

From the early morning itself on the 18th July, hundreds of devotees started assembling at Ashramam.  Sri Karyam Swamy, Sri Narasimharaghavachariar,  Sri R.Rajagopal,.Sri Vaduvoor Srinivasa Desikachariar, Sri Kalyanapuram Aravamudachariar, Sri Villoor Karunakarachariar were all in the center stage in organizing all matters connected to the event.From Sri Paduka Charities,Sri S.Vasudevan, Secretary, Sri Sarangarajan,Sri Kasturirangan, Sri Krishnan,Sri Parthasarathi,R.Srinivasan and Sri V.Srinivasan were in attenadance. (Sri Narayanan of Srimath Andavan Trust, a native of adjacent Keezhnaththam,was also present.

After the usual mornings anushtanam,  Srimath Andavan performed Perumal and Paduka Aaradanams.  Sri Venugopalan araadanam was performed by aaraadakar Sri Calcutta Krishnamurthy swamy.  After this it was theertha ghoshti for the devotees.

Next event was Mrithsankramanam, the collection of earth by Srimath Andavan, Sri Vaduvoor Desikahariar swamy did the sankalpam ceremony for HH.  All the devotees attentively participated in this even and considered the same as a great blessings in their lifetime.

On completion of this, H.H, went for "Thirumudivilakkam" on the banks of river Tambirabarani.  After taking bath at the river and  "Thirumankappu" .  H.H. returned back to Ashramam in a procession and at the entrance H.H., was received with Mangala Aarathi by the ladies present there.

During this period, several vidwans present in the Hall, gave discourses for the devotees.  Several other devotees went to the nearby Divyadesa Temple of Sri Adinathar and the sannathi of Sri Nammalwar.

All these events were followed by Pancha Santhi by vedic scholars and Divyadesa mariyaadais for H.H., Among them were Srivilliputhur, Kancheepuram, Thirukkudanthai, Uppiliappan Koil, Thiruvananthapuram, all the nine divyadesams of Nava Thiruppathi, Vanamaamalai dand Thirukkurungudi etc.,  Srikaryam Sri Narasimha Raghavachariar Swamy presented all these temple honours to H.H

After this H.H. delivered His anugrahabashanam. At the end of these,  a grand Thadeeyaaraadanam was arranged for all the vedic scholars and devotees. On conclusion of all these events, H.H., gave manthratchadai to all the devotees and blessed them.

Thus concluded the first day of Chaturmasya Sankalpam. The devotees who attended this function, had a great opportunity to visit all the 9 divyadesams of Nava Thirupathi and the adjacent Vaanamaamalai and Thirukkurungudi. 

The devotees had the opportunity of visiting Nava Thirupathi.  The credit of renovation and excellent maintenance of all of them goes to the big three letter word T.V.S., and particularly under the giant Industrialist and grand son of TVS, Sri Venu Srinivasan.  Every one in those villages speaks very high of TVS.  It is a great sight to see the new vibrant Nava Thirupathees now.  Every where spic and span, discipline and right as per time schedule. Those who have not visited these kshetras and may now take this great opportunity provided by H.H., who is now camping there for two months.  You can get blessings of Srimath Andavan Swamigal, as well as visit the Divyadesams.  No worry about food, there is Andavan Ashramam for you there.  Nearer to this there are 2 other divyadesams of Thirukkurungudi and Vaanamaamalai.  At Thirukkurungudi apart from the well known five Nambi temples, please do visit Parivattapparai of Sri Ramanuja and Brindavanam of Sri Thirumangai Azhwar.

You can take this opportunity to pay respects  Srimath Vaanamaamalai Jeer Swamy and Srimath Thirukkurungudi Jeer Swamy also.  In short, three Vaishnavaite Yatheewaras are observing their Chaturmasya Sankalpam on the banks of river Tambirabarani and it will be our bhaagyam to get their blessings.

Nearer to Srivaikuntam there is a famous Sri Venkateswara  Temple atop a small hill, in a place called Karungulam,visited as a prarthanai sthalam by many devotees.

Reported by

Daasan,

R.Srinivasan

19th May 2003

Sri

Srimathe Sri Ranga Ramanuja Mahadesikaya Namaha

SRI RANGARAMANUJA MAHADESIKAN

(SRIMUSHNAM)

69^th THIRUNAKSHATRA PATHRIKA

By the benign grace of Srirangam Divya Dampathis and the Padukas of Poorvacharyas, the 69^th Thirunakshathra Mahothsavam of Srirangam Srimath Andavan Sri Ranga Ramanuja Mahadesikan (Srimushnam Andavan) will be celebrated in Vaikasi Thiruvadhirai Thirunakshathram on Monday the 2^nd June 2003 at Srirangam Srimath Andavan Asramam, 21, Sir Desikachari Road, Alwarpet, Mylapore, Chennai 600 004 and our Ashramams elsewhere.

Sri Padukavihara Vidwat Sadas, the Parayanams of Vedas, Srimath Ramayanam, ri Paduka Sahasram will be from 29-05-2003 to 02-06-2003.

All the disciples, devotees and well-wishers of our Asramam are requested to participate in the celebrations and receive the blessings of Srimath Andavan.

Chennai : 9-4-2003                                       By order of H.H.Srimath Andavan

S NARASIMHA RAGHAVAN

Srikaryam

4th May 2003

Srirangam Srimath Andavan Ashramam has created a new Yahoo groups mailing list. In future to get the latest news about ashramam ,please send a request to join yahoo groups , with a brief introduction about yourself. Some messages will also appear in the web site,as and when found useful to readers.

Srimathe Rangaramanujaya Namaha. 

Srimath Andavan is presently camping in Jayanagar Ashramam in Bangalore.Everyday hundreds of devotees attend Perumal and Paduka Aaraadanams there.In connection with the forthcoming Sri Ramanuja Jayanti and Srimath Saatchath Swamy Thirunakshtram, both of which falls on Chiththirai Thiruvadirai, Veda and Prabantha Paaraayanams are being held by a group of devotees.Sri Ramanuja Jayanthi will be celebrated on 6th May and it is planned to hold the same at Sri Venugopalan Sannathi at Thulasi Madam in the city and H.H. is likely to grace the occasion. H.H. willbe camping in Jayanagar Ashramam till 8th of May. Thereafter leaves for Chittoor,then Ranipet and to Kanchipuram.H.H, will be in Kanchipuram on 10th evening and after aaraadanams 11th morning,arrives in Chennai Ashramam on the evening of 11th May. 

Sri Nrisimha Jayanti will be celebrated in Ashramam on 15th May 

Sri Mysore Andavan Kainkaryam on17th May 

Vaikasi Tiruvadirai,being the Thirunakshatram of Varthamana Srimath Andavan,this will be celebrated in a grand manner at Chennai Ashramam,on 2nd June. Sri Paduka Charities, Under the able guidance of Sri R.Rajagopalan(RR), is making elaborate arrangements for this memorable function. It may be noted that this years Sri Paduka Vidwat Sadas is going to be held to coincide with this function. Many eminent vidwans are expected to participate from all over India. There will be a 5 day programme with Veda ,Prabanta parayanams. All these days Thadheeyaaraadanams to hundreds of those Vidwans as well as devotees from many places, are being arranged.It will be great opportunity for all of us to participate and enjoy the events. If the situation permits please make sure to attend the same. This celebration will be held in all branches of Ashramam and you may choose to attend at the places nearer to you.This function will also be held under the auspicious of Sri Ramanuja Mission in USA and they will be sending out a circular on this to all the Sri Ramanuja Mission yahoo groups members shortly. 

All the expenses for this celebrations are meted out by contributions received from devotees and other well wishers.It will be a great opportunity for all of us also to contribute our mite for the function. You may send the cheques or drafts addressed Srirangam Srimath Andavan Ashramam,No. 21 Desikachari Road, Mylapore, Chennai 600004, India.In case you need tax benefits,you may address the payments to Sri Paduka Charities,No. 21, Desikachari Road, Mylapore, Chennai 600004, India. Receipts along with Manthradchadai from Ashramam will be posted to all of them. While sending payment, please send e mail to the undersigned so that I will make sure that you get the rceipts and Manthratchadai is sent to you without fail.This will be a great opportunity , once in a year and please make use of the same. May Srimath Andavan's blessings will be with you and for your family. 

Srimath Andavan Tiruvadi Daasan, R.Srinivasan.

31st Mar. 2003

NOTES TO THE HONOURABLE MEMBERS OF THE NEC  

I have the privilege of submitting the following report to the Honourable Members since my previous report sent a few months ago.

 14th CHATUR MAASYA SANKALPAM OF H.H. SRIMAD ANDAVAN 

As already reported this was observed by H.H. Srimad Andavan at our Sripuram Asramam from July 24th onwards. H.H. had a well-earned rest for nearly eight weeks due to the restrictions on His movements during the Sankalpam period. As usual H.H. immersed Himself in His books, (existing stocks and newly procured!) had Chintana with great Scholars on certain core issues of our Sampradayam.

The Trustees/ Staff/ Committee Members of our Sripuram Asramam had made excellent arrangements for the Sankalpam, so H.H. had a very comfortable stay for these eight weeks, many Sishyas and Abhimanis had the Bhagyam of His Darshan; many Sishyas had Pancha Samskaram and Atma Samarpanam (Saranagathi) during this period. There were Tele Upanyasams on the series “Sthothra Rathnam” of Srimad YAmunamuni to our overseas audience. 

H.H. celebrated the Thirunakshatrams of His Poorvacharyas, their Holinesses Srimad Vazhuthoor Andavan, Srimad Therazhundur Andavan, Srimad Akkur Andavan, Srimad Thenbirai Andavan and Srimad Mysore Andavan at the Sripuram Asramam with Veda/ Prabandha/ Grantha Parayanams. On 16/09/2002, H.H. inaugurated and blessed the project at Jayanagar Asramam for the boys’ hostel therein. The same day the Maha Samprokshanam of the Rajagopuram of Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple at Rajaji Nagar was performed in the immediate presence of H.H. Srimad Andavan. On the 21st September H.H. performed Mangalasasanam at Sri Lakshmi Narasimhan Sannathi at the Ahobila Mutt at Prakash Nagar.  

The Sripuram Asramam gave an unprecedented & very well deserved Sambavanai to all the Kainkaryaparas of H.H. at the end of the Sankalpam. This was a matter of extreme satisfaction to the Staff and the National Committee. It is hoped that the other Centres match or better this in the years to come. These Kainkaryaparas are our unsung warriors, there is a wrong impression due to their noise levels and they are sometimes difficult to handle. But the job requirements are very strenuous, suitable hands are difficult to recruit, most people go for Upadhyayam or for Cooking in marriages/ other functions where there is very good money to be earned. Under the circumstances, (taking an overall view and leaving out a couple of black sheep who have been sacked anyway) the their sincere services rendered are to be appreciated and well rewarded. I am very happy that the Sripuram Asramam Committee has done so and would like to record my appreciation thereof. I appeal to all centres to replicate this whenever H.H. Srimad Andavan camps at their centres.

H.H. performed His Uthanam on 22nd September at Sri S. Ravi Narayanan’s residence at Jayanagar. The two brothers Badri and Ravi are rendering yeoman services while maintaining a very low profile. Just one word from H.H. is the veritable Geetha Baashyam for them both. I am happy to note their commitment and interest, which will guarantee the future welfare of the Institution, as they are young in their early forties. 

Thereafter H.H. proceeded on Yatra via Hosur, Chittoor and Kanchipuram and reached Annanagar on the 5th October 2002. Special mention must be made about Sri S. Vasudevan (Nutrine Vasu) who looks after H.H. and His entourage so well every time they pass thro’ (to & fro) Chittoor. H.H. thereafter reached Chennai Asramam on the 6th October after performing the Perumal & Paduka Aradhanams at Paduka Vihara Bhavanam at Anna Nagar on that Sunday morning. 

Sri R. Srinivasan, Trustee, has converted the said Bhavanam (his Thirumaligai) into a virtual Asramam branch in Anna Nagar. H.H. has performed the Aradhanams, Upanyasamams etc., on several occasions in the past and the Bhavanam has become a centre for spreading the philosophy of Sri Vaishnavism. Many SriVaishnavaite Yathis have visited and performed Aradhanams here and at least 3 series’ of Upanyasams of Vidwans approved by our H.H. are held every year. We pray that the Anugrahams of the Poorvacharyas and H.H. continue to guide RS in his endeavours.

With the Divya Niyamanam of our Acharya, a delegation comprising the Srikaryam, the Trustees and the writer called on Dr. Ms J. Jayalalithaa, the Honourable Chief Minister of Tamizhnadu at the Secretariat at Chennai on the 22nd October 2002. They conveyed to her i) the bountiful blessings of H.H. Srimad Andavan, ii) the strong support of H.H. and His Sishyas for the then Anti Conversion Ordinance (it is now enacted into a Statute), iii) the commendations of H.H. Srimad Andavan for the Annadanam Scheme launched by the C.M. in all the Temples in Tamizhnadu and being implemented by her in the face of strong and often unprincipled opposition from many quarters and iv) the advice of H.H. to similarly implement a Go-Rakshanam scheme in all Temples. As directed by and on behalf on H.H. Srimad Andavan, the writer handed over a Cheque for Rs. 2.50 lakhs to the C.M. as the contribution of our Asramam for their Annadanam Scheme. A detailed report on our meeting with the Honourable Chief Minister has been published in the November issue of the Paduka.

Sri Andal Thiruppavai Mahotsava Sabha celebrated the 303rd Thirunakshatram of the Spiritual Founder of the Asramam, Sri Gopalarya Mahadesikan, at the Sannathi built by H.H. for the Poorvacharya at Royampettai on 13-10-2002 at the directions of H.H. Srimad Andavan. Adhikaris from Srirangam, Thirukkudanthai, Thanjavur, and Kalyanapuram, performed special Thirumanjanam. There were Veda/ Prabandha/ Grantha Parayanams as usual and Upanyasams by our Asramam Vidwans, M/s Kalyanapuram Aravamudhachariar, Vaduvur R. Veeraragahavachariar and Sanskrit Patasala Principal G. Krishnamachariar.

The Hari Katha course (for our Sanskrit Patasala at Srirangam) was formally inaugurated in the benign presence of H.H. on 14-10-2002.  Justice K.S. Bhaktavatsalam presided over the function. The actual commencement of the Hari Katha classes was taken up at Srirangam on the 19th Oct. 2002 after a solemn function presided over by the Mayor of Tiruchirappalli, Smt. Charubala Thondaman in the presence of the Srikaryam swami, the Trustees and the writer.

H.H. participated in the meetings organised by the Dharma Rakshana Samithi and the T.N. Brahmin Association at the Narada Gana Sabha Auditorium at Chennai on the 6th and on the 9th Nov. 2002. In the first meeting, H.H. delivered a strong Anugraha Bashanam supporting the Anti Conversion Ordinance promulgated by the State Govt. This was well received by the audience of over 2000 with repeated applause. We wanted to stop this “applause” affair during the Anugraha Bashanam of H.H. as this was not a political meeting but the audience got emotionally involved with the H.H. and there was standing ovation at the completion of the Bashanam.

On the 9th November meeting, H.H.’s Anugraha Bashanam was unusually long and informative. He detailed the achievements of the Brahmin Community over the several millennia, He proved that even the old Tamizh Magnum Corpus, the Tholkappiam, must have been compiled and composed by a Brahmin of those days, He enumerated on the qualities of Brahmins even thousands of years ago as immortalized in Thirukkural “Paarpan Piroppozhukkam Kundra Kedum”. There were many such anecdotes that thrilled the huge audience. H.H. Sri Jayendra Saraswathi, the Pontiff of Kanchi Kamakoti Mutt, (who also attended and delivered His Anugraha Bashanam) frankly and graciously admitted that only our H.H. could deliver such a Bashanam in Tamizh (He called it wondrously as the Sanga Tamizh!).

Between the 10 th and the 15 th November 2002, H.H. was on Yatra to Pazhaiya Seevaram and at SriPerumpudur to be present for the Maha Samprokshanams of the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Perumal Sannathi and Sri Vedantha Desikan Sannathi. H.H. also performed Mangalasasanam at Sriperumpudur Sri Bashyakarar Sannathi on 14-11-2002. H.H. also delivered another scintillating Anugraha Bashanam at the Yoga Kshema Trust on the 20th November 2002, on the origin and meaning of the term “Hindu”, who is a Hindu, how this term got coined and its Veda Pramanam etc., in response to the “brilliant” and misleading expositions of some “scholars” who, with a personal agenda against the Acharya of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam, were dishing out their special theories on the subject of “Hinduism” & “Hindus” etc.,

Between the 21st and 23rd November 2002, H.H. was on Yatra to Pon Padar and Pon Vilainda Kalathur and performed Mangalasasanams at the Perumal Sannathis in those Abhimana Kshetrams. On the 6th December 2002, H.H. graced the Founder’s day celebrations at the Ahobila Mutt Oriental School, West Mambalam, Chennai.

H.H. performed Dhanur Maasya Aradhanam at our Chennai Asramam, the 14th after His Sanyasa Asrama Sweekaram. H.H. also rendered the Thiruppavai UpanyAsam every evening from 6.45 p.m. attended by a large group of devotees and admirers as usual. This year many Sangeetha Sabhas requested H.H. to inaugurate their annual Maargazhi Music festivals, deliver His Anugraha Bashanam and to honour a few outstanding artistes chosen by them. These were Sri Kapali Fine Arts, Sri Parthasarathy Swami Sabha, The Academy of Indian Music & Arts etc., The Artistes honoured were Sri Balamurali Krishna (Sangeetha Kala Sarathi), Sri Kunnakudi Vaidyanathan (Nadha Kala Jothi) and Sri Kalyanapuram Aravamudhachariar as Sri Hari Katha Sagaram.

On the 30 th December 2002, a compact function was held at our Chennai Asramam in the benign presence of H.H. Srimad Andavan to sign a M.O.U with Clemson University, South Carolina, U.S.A for a collaborative exchange program with Srimad Andavan Arts and Science College as part of Sri Ranganatha Paduka Vidyalaya Trust.  The faculty of the Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University offers expertise in the field of neuro, cardiovascular and orthopedic bioengineering.  Several ongoing collaborative research projects within the department involve cardiovascular disease understanding and device development for its management.  

The Agreement under the present M.O.U. is meant to develop exchanges of Students, Researchers, Faculty members from the Department of Bio Engineering at Clemson University and Srimad Andavan Arts & Science College – Sri Ranganatha Paduka Vidyalaya Trust in India. It also involves joint publication of articles, joint research projects or any other activity, which could improve the relations between both institutions. Dr. H. Devraj, Professor in the Department of Zoology, Madras University now on lean to Clemson is the Coordinator for this M.O.U.

The agreement and the M.O.U were signed in the presence of the Union Minister of Human Resource Development, Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi and the Vice Chancellor of the Bharathi Dasan University, Dr. Muthaiah Mariappan in a function attended by the cream of the Bio Sciences Faculties in City and the Directors of I.I.T and the C.L.R.I. The first steps in implementing the M.O.U. have been taken, a herbal garden has been started in our College premises; Dr. Bhima Rao, a Senior Scientist who is a master in the fields of Ayurvedic medicines has been engaged as an Adviser; a full time research scientist has been appointed and work on the organic/ surface chemistry of a few Ayurvedic herbs has been taken up. 

Prof. V. Badrinath, Principal of Srimad Andavan Arts & Science College, has given a detailed report on this and on the Science Expo held in our College on the 31st Jan. and 1st Feb. 2003 in the Feb. 2003 of the Paduka. The Expo was inaugurated by H.H. in a function presided over by the Mayor of Tiruchirappalli Corporation and Dr. S. Yoganarasimhar, Head of Plant Research, R.R. Laboratory, Bangalore, was organised entirely by the Faculty and the Students and attracted more than 10,000 visitors on these two days. The Tamizhnadu Minister for Information and Publicity, Sri K.K. Balasubramaniam and the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Mariappan graced the valedictory function. 

H.H. completed the Thiruppavai UpanyAsam on the 14th January 2003 with “Andal Kalyanam”; graced the completion of Srikaryam Swami’s Thiruppavai UpanyAsam and Andal Kalyanam at the Paduka Vihara Bhavanam on the 15th Jan. 2003. H.H. delivered His usual scintillating inaugural Anugraha Bashanam of the Vedic Sangeetha Foundation at Venus Colony in a function attended by H.H. Sri Sankara Vijayendra Swamigal, Sri T.N. Seshan, Sri Mohan Parasaran and others. 

Between the 25th Jan. 2003 and the 11th Feb. 2003, H.H. was on Yatra visiting Akkur (Samprokshanam of Sri Lakshmi Narayana Perumal Temple), Kurugai Kavalappan Koil, Udayarpalayam, Srirangam, Kalyanapuram, Thirukkandiyur (Mangalasasanam of Sri Harasabha Vimosana Perumal Sannathi and fixing a date for the Maha Samprokshanam thereof), Royampettai, Vallam (Sri Ponnaiah Ramajayam’s Engineering College back to Srirangam and Chennai via Thiruvahindrapuram (Mangalasasanam of Sri Devanatha Perumal, Sri Hayagreeva Sannathi) etc., H.H. eventually returned to Chennai on the evening of 11th Feb.

The annual Samashti Upanayanam, started in 1987 as per the directions of H.H. Srimad Thirukkudanthai Andavan, was conducted this year in the benign presence of H.H. & 28 boys were benefited. Normally this is conducted on or about the Maasi Pushyam day in honour of the late H.H. Srimad PeriAndavan. This year, there were two Pushyams in the month of Maasi; we celebrated this during the first Pushyam as H.H. was scheduled to proceed on Yatra to the Twin cities for their Silver Jubilee on the second Maasi Pushyam! The total upanayanams performed till date are 461. 

H.H. Srimad Andavan left on 3rd March 2003 on an Anu Yatra for the Twin cities via Thiruchanoor, Thirupathi, Nellore and Vijayawada. He performed Mangalasasanams for Sri Padmavathi Thayaru, Sri Govindaraja Perumal (& His Divine Consorts) and Sri Srinivasa Perumal at Thiruchanoor, Thirupathi and Thirumala on the 3rd and 4th March 2003. H.H. reached our Secunderabad Asramam on the evening of Friday the 7th March 2003. He will camp there till the middle of April 2003 and will return to Chennai by end April via Bangalore, Chittoor etc.,  

MAASI PUSHYAM 2003 – SECUNDERABAD ASRAMAM SILVER JUBILEE

Our Secunderabad Asramam was established in the year 1978 by our Poorvacharya, the late H.H. Srimad Thirukkudanthai Andavan who consecrated the Sannathi for Maha Lakshmi Thayar and Sri Lakshmi Narayana Perumal to cater to the Sevarthis in the Twin cities. This Asramam has been making spectacular progress over the past 25 years with the addition of Kalyana Mandapam and due to the flocking of large number of Sevarthis without differentiation of caste and creed. The Aradhanams and the daily rituals, the Utsavams are conducted with total religious fervour and commitment by the Aradhakar duly supported by the Committee members from the beginning. As per the Niyamanam of H.H. Srimad Andavan, the Committee has been converted into a Trust last year. The Trust Board is headed by Sri K. Saranyan, I.P.S. (Retd.). The other Trustees are M/S A.R. Rangachari (Vice President), Chithra R. Rajagopalan (Secretary), C.R. Sridhar, S. Venugopalan and Krishnam Raju.

The Trustees requested that the Silver Jubilee celebrations be conducted in a simple and austere manner with appropriate Homams being performed in the benign presence of H.H. Srimad Andavan. Accordingly H.H’s Yatra program was fixed up and He reached the Twin cities in time for the celebrations. Our Asthana Ganapati Sri Veeravalli Srinivasa Desikachariar and his (Super band of Adhikaris) assistants then performed Purusha Sookta/ Sree Sookta/ Sudarsana/ Sri Lakshmi Narasimha/ Dhanvanthri/ Sammanana/ Sada Rudriya Vasordhara Homams on the 12th and 13th March 2003. It was a super sublime experience for those of us fortunate enough to see the Homams being performed with tremendous care, professionalism and reverence. Hundreds of Sevarthis sat through and watched the virtuoso performance on these two days by a Master who is revered in the World of Vedas as an Ultimate Authority, in the presence of our Acharya SArvabhouma. 

There were Veda/ Prabandha/ Grantha Parayanams from the 11th March for the 203rd Thirunakshatram celebrations of our Poorvacharya, H.H. Srimad PeriAndavan. On the 14th March, the Thirunakshatram day, there were hundreds of Sevarthis (it was a week day!), they sat through patiently for the Perumal/ Paduka Aradhanams/ the concluding part of the Parayanams, Peria Sathumarai, the very short public function, the Anugraha Bashanam of H.H. Srimad Andavan. The celebrations concluded with an appropriate mix of Thadheearadhanam befitting an Ekadasi! 

We must record and convey our heartfelt gratitude for the families of Sri Venugopalan and Sri Ramakrishnan, (Sishyas of our Asramam) who made mountainous quantities of well water available to H.H. and our Asramam for our Aradhanams/ Thaligai etc., at considerable inconvenience to themselves during the past 21 days and will do so again during the Panguni Pushyam - 97th Thirunakshatram of H.H. Srimad Thirukkudanthai Andavan also being celebrated at Secunderabad.

ASRAMAM PROJECTS – ACTION TAKEN REPORT

Four separate reports namely, i) Application of Funds of Srimad Andavan Arts & Science College, Srirangam, ii) SRI RANGANATHA PADUKA VIDYALAYA TRUST – A BRIEF REPORT, iii) SRI RANGANATHA PADUKA VIDYALAYA TRUST, SRIRANGAM STRATEGIC VISION 2002/07 and iv) Sanskrit Veda & Prabandham Patasalas – A Strategic Vision have been widely circulated by the writer during Nov/ Dec. 2002 to all committee members, Trustees and other Abhimanis/ Donors – past & potential. The subsequent developments in our College and the Sanskrit Patasalas will be discussed here and during the meetings of the NEC & SRPV Trust scheduled to be held on the 10th April 2003 at Secunderabad. 

KANCHIPURAM VEDA PATASALA

Our Ganapati Swami, Sri Veeravalli Srinivasa Desikachariar Swami, in the presence of the Trustees, the local committee members and the writer, inaugurated this Patasala on the 18th August 2002. 7 Vidyarthis have joined and they are also being given basic lessons in English etc., by our Manager Sri Thathachariar swami. There are some ticklish issues here and we have to pass them by before this Patasala can increase its strength. A devotee of H.H. (wishing to remain behind the scenes) is fully contributing, by Cheque, towards the running expenses of appr. Rs. 12,000/- per month.

THIRUCHANOOR VEDA PATASALA

This was inaugurated by (again) by our Ganapati Swami, Sri Srinivasa Desikachariar Swami in the presence of the Trustees, Sri K.S. Acharya and Sri Srinivasan of Navajeevan Trust and the writer on Sunday the 26th October 2002 with 18 Vidyarthis and 3 Adhikaris. The Patasala was started in two rented houses in Thiruchanoor and will move into our own Asramam – Veda Patasala building scheduled to be opened on the 28th April 2003 measuring 2600 Sq.Ft each in Ground and First floor. The construction is nearing completion; was graced and blessed by H.H. during His visit to Thiruchanoor on the 3rd March 2003. 

The most significant fact is that our Ganapati swami has now officiated in the inauguration of all our Veda Patasalas, the first at Kanchipuram in 1967/68 (later shifted to Srirangam), Vaduvur in 2001, Kanchipuram in Aug. 2002 and Thiruchanoor in Oct. 2002. The Thiruchanoor Patasala now has 36 boys & three Adhikaris; most importantly there are 8 Vidyarthis in Rig Veda & a senior Rig Veda Vidyarthi doing Kramantha Adhyayanam doubles as an Adhikari for the new Rig Veda Vidyarthis! One more Rig Veda Vidyarthi is expected to join for Jata Parayana Adhyayanam shortly. The progress is very satisfactory. Depending upon the progress of the Vidyarthis, it is planned to admit the second batch of Vidyarthis in Oct. 2004. Once we are in our own premises, it is also planned to start Prabandham classes – part time or full time depending upon the response. Sri Ranganatha Paduka Vidyalaya Trust currently meets the Patasala’s running expenses of appr. Rs. 60,000/- per month.

However I would like to caution the Honourable Members that the drop out ratio is likely to be high as many parents and the Vidyarthis are yet to realise the significance of the traditional education and are attracted more towards the “modern” education hoping that this would give them “instant” employment. This problem will continue to haunt us in the years to come; it is our job to package and market these courses in an attractive manner and assemble reasonably bright Vidyarthis but 12-15% dropouts are to be taken for granted.

As per the directions of H.H. Srimad Andavan, the writer published the report  “Sanskrit Patasalas – A Long Term Vision” in the Dec. 2002 issue of the Paduka. Members are welcome to add their invaluable advice and comments to help us convert this vision into a long term active plan.

THIRUCHANOOR CONSTRUCTIONS – ASRAMAM & KALYANA MANDAPAM

As already reported, H.H. purchased a plot measuring 6.00 grounds – 180’*80’ land spread. Tenders were invited from leading A class contractors, seven parties submitted their bids which were opened at Thirumala in the presence of the Trustees and the writer, the lowest tendered bid was accepted after ensuring that his bid conformed in full with the tender specifications & the contract finalized with Sri Lakshmi Narayana Reddy, the contractor who submitted the lowest tender. 

Work was taken up in Nov./ Dec. 2002; the project involved putting up a Kalyana Mandapam of 9250 Sq.Ft and 2600 Sq.Ft of Asramam/ Veda Patasala. The strong influx of the Vidyarthis very soon after the Veda Patasala was inaugurated made us to realise that the single floor accommodation of 2600 Sq.Ft. was inadequate. The writer thereafter secured the permission of H.H. to put up the first floor also of 2600 Sq.Ft. straightaway. The soil was pure sand being in the vicinity of a river; so we had to put up a heavy full width R.C.C. Strip foundation for the entire length of the excavated trenches all-round and across.  This came in handy when we decided to put up the first floor straight away as the heavy foundation, mandated due to technical reasons, was adequate even for two more floors (Ground Plus Three floors!).

The total cost of the project is estimated @ Rs. 80.00/ 85.00 lakhs. We have so far spent Rs. 30.00 lakhs from our own funds; After obtaining the permission of H.H. we are taking a loan of Rs. 50.00 lakhs @ 9.75% interest p.a. to be repaid in say 65/70 installments of Rs. 1.00 lakh per month. The assistance of Sri N.S. VaradAchAri, Advocate (& our Sishya and Trustee Sri Kasturi Rangan) is to be appreciated in this regard. This will be repaid from out of the incomes of the Thirumala Asramam and the new Kalyana Mandapam, which will generate an income of approx. Rs. 1.00/ 1.25 lakh per month.

The scheduled completion of the Asramam/ Veda Patasala building is mid April 2003; we are having the Griha Pravesam on Monday the 28th April 2003 between 04 30 and 05 30 hours; all are invited to attend and grace the occasion. The Kalyana Mandapam will be completed by Mid August 2003 and will be open to the members of the public without any differentiation of caste or creed – but strictly for Vegetarian cooking only. Members will be kept advised of the progress from time to time.

VADUVUR VEDA PATASALA – FURTHER CONSTRUCTION

The writer has dealt with the Vaduvur Patasala in detail in a report published in the Paduka of Dec. 2002. It is planned to start the second batch in Nov./ Dec. 2003 and admit a further 24/30 Vidyarthis. We have gratefully acknowledged the gesture of the family of our H.H’s disciples who had offered their ancestral family property for putting up the accommodation for the next batch of Vidyarthis. It is now planned to take up the construction of appr. 1800 Sq.Ft. in the ground floor and 600 Sq.Ft in the first floor (for accommodating the family of the Donors when they visit Vaduvur). ARR of Secunderabad Asramam is preparing the building plans (he is a Civil Engineering Consultant). This is expected to cost Rs. 8.00 lakhs of which a philanthropist has offered to contribute Rs. 6.00 lakhs. We have to find the balance Rs. 2.00 lakhs only. The construction will be completed by Nov. 2003.  Our Ganapati Swami has decided to do the construction on his own departmentally as he is not happy in incurring the cost of the Contractor’s profit and thus we should complete the works @ Rs. 325/ 350 per Sq.Ft.! He will procure the construction materials and engage the labour direct.

AZHWAR THIRUNAGARI ASRAMAM

This long-standing wish of H.H. Srimad Andavan was fulfilled during this year, H.H. was planning to buy an existing built area for quite some time but the owners were not coming through as there was some hitch. Due to the efforts of an Asramam Kainkaryaparar their internal problem was sorted out and they sold and settled the property in favour of the Asramam. We were originally planning to renovate the building and run an Asramam and Veda Patasala here.

But one of H.H’s most ardent and committed Sishyas (who has given munificent donations so far) took over at this stage and is now rebuilding the whole structure – an entirely new Asramam – Veda Patasala is coming up. H.H. Srimad Andavan is planning to observe His 15th Chatur Maasya Sankalpam in Azhwar Thirunagari. Thereafter we are planning to set up yet another Veda Patasala here as per the Divya Niyamanam of H.H. and Sri Kasturi Rangan, Trustee, Sri Paduka Charities will be in charge – he is already looking after Kanchipuram, Vaduvur and Thiruchanoor.

ASRAMAM AT MATTAPALLI (A.P)

The Trustees of Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swami Devasthanam in Mattapalli (A.P.) had offered a plot of land to H.H. when He performed Mangalasasanam in June 2000. The writer had followed it up during his visit in 2001 and coincidentally a Trustee in our Asramam at Sec’bad, Sri C.R. Sridhar also happens to be a Board Member at Mattapalli. These Trustees had visited our Asramam on 13th March 2003, paid their reverential respects to H.H. and offered 2000 Sq. Yards of land. H.H. has accepted this offer and it is planned to put up an Asramam building of appr. 2400 Sq.Ft. costing appr. Rs. 9.00 Lakhs, within the next 12/15 months. Mattapalli is a SwayamVaktha Kshetram of Sri Lakshmi Nrsimha, the Archa Moorthi having descended on that Kshetram many thousands of years ago.

The Late Sri Mukkur Lakshmi Narasimhachariar Swami and his 108 yagnas had generated very good publicity for this Kshetram. Though this Kshetram is well known, there is a need to provide facilities for the Sevarthis. The nearest Railway points are Vijayawada or Secunderabad; by road it is 220 kms and 115 kms respectively from Secunderabad & Vijayawada. Even so there is no lodging facility of a standard that most of us expect; there is a “Brahmin (?) Mess” but really the Sevarthis will find it very convenient when we put up our Asramam, offer good Thadheearadhanam and decent accommodation say of our Oppiliappan Koil Asramam level. This will increase the traffic and create good mileage for the Asramam when we provide these facilities.

TWIN CITIES – THE SECOND ASRAMAM

Very soon, with the Divya Niyamanam of H.H., we shall be acquiring another plot to build a second Asramam in the Twin cities. The Asramam in West Marredpally is ideally and centrally located but reels under a severe (well) water shortage! Asramam has this unbending policy of conducting the Aradhanams/ Thirumanjanam/ Thaligai etc., with well water (& drawn by hand) only!! It is a classic case of the irresistible force and the immovable object – something has got to give! 

At the same time, the devotion of the all classes of Sishyas and Abhimanis in the Twin cities is so sublime that we cannot deprive them of the Bhagyam of the visits and blessings of the Acharya just because of the well water problem. Thus we have to solve the problem by moving out to a location where we can get well water, build another Asramam, ensure that H.H. visits the Twin cities regularly and enable the Sevarthis therein to receive the boundless Blessings of H.H. Srimad Andavan. 

This project will be taken up on priority. With the Poorvacharyas’ Blessings, we hope that the next visit of H.H. will be to the new Asramam. If, due to the Grace of the Lord of the Universe, the well water position at our existing Asramam improves, well & good, so be it, H.H. will stay in both the Asramams during His visit. This is also an important element in the plans of H.H. to expand the Asramam Network in other States. There has been a long-standing grievance (partly justified) that we have been expanding only within Tamizhnadu. The construction of three Asramams in A.P. will be an appropriate response and will also increase the numbers of Sevarthis frequenting the Asramams. In fact our long-term vision for the Asramam includes a centre at the Temple Town of Bhadrachalam also. 

The Secunderabad Asramam has a plan to start an exclusive Women’s College and that will be the next stage of the Asramam’s strategic plans. The experience gained by running Srimad Andavan Arts & Science College at Srirangam will be very useful in running an educational institution in the Twin cities also.

SRIMAD ANDAVAN ARTS & SCIENCE COLLEGE

The College has made tremendous strides in the recent past under the guidance of the Poorvacharyas and H.H. Srimad Andavan. Infrastructure worth over Rs. 6.00 crores has been built due to the most magnificent support and contributions from the Sishyas and Abhimanis of H.H. Srimad Andavan. The quality of education and the results in the final semester examinations are improving continuously. Sri V.S. Narasimhan, Secretary, has toiled hard over the past several months to streamline the administration, build an Institution of Excellence befitting the stature of the Asramam and to implement the action plan under the M.O.U. with Clemson University, U.S.A.

He will present a detailed report on the steps taken so far in this regard. We have already circulated a Long Term Vision for the College. We will have a detailed discussion on these and on the other matters at the Board Meeting of Sri Ranganatha Paduka Vidyalaya Trust scheduled to be held at around 11.30 A.M. on the same day (immediately after the NEC meeting). Kindly stay on for that meeting also and let us have the pleasure of your valuable advice and support.

CHAIRMAN

Signed at Chennai; Friday the 28th March 2003

25th Feb. 2003

Srimath Andavan will be leaving Chennai by the end of this week.On 3rd. Mar.Morning H.H. will be performing Mangalasaasanam  of Sri Alarmelmangapuram Temple at Tiruchanoor. The same afternoon H.H. will be at Sri Govindaraja Perumal Sannathi at Tirupathi.

On the morning of 4th March,H.H. will be performing Mangalaasaasanam at Sri Tiruvenkatamudayaan Sannathi at Tirumalai. 

From Tirumalai H.H. proceeds on a tour of Andhra Pradesh for a couple of months. The exact tour details will be available shortly.

9th Feb.2003

A week of hectic activity for Srimath Andavan.

On 30th Jan.in the presence of H.H. there was a special Homam,arranged in the Andavan Arts & Science College at Srirangam.Then the following 2 days there was a big Science Exhibition for the students, in which several dignitaries participated.They include the Mayor of the Tiruchi Municipal Corporation, Vice Chancellor of the Bharatidasan University,Ministers of the State Govt.and a few others.H.H. took keen interest in the events and presided over the functions.

On 7th Feb.there was a big event for Hindu cultural awareness particularly for the youth. This function was presided by H.H.,in which several other Madathipathees ,including Sri Kanchi Sankarachariar Swamy also addressed.The whole event was organised by Visva Hindu Parishad,under the charmanship of Sri Ashok Singhal.Many thousands listened to Srimath Andavan's speech which lasted over 20 minutes

H.H. has left Srirangam after a short stay and left for Tiruvaheendipuram and will be performing Mangalasaasanam of Sri Devanathan Sannathi on 10th monday morning.

H.H. will be back in Chennai Ashramam on the evening of 10th Feb.

H.H.will be in Tirumalai on 2nd and 3rd Feb and willbe performing Mangalasaasanam on there on 3rd Feb.From there H.H. will be proceeding to Hyderbad.Maasi Pushyam, Sri Periandavan Thirunakshatram and Panguni Pushyam, Sri Tirukkudanthai Andavan's Tirunakshatram will be celebrated in Hyderbad.This will coincide with the Silver Jubily celebration of the founding of Srimath Andavan Ashramam at Hyderabad.    

28^th  Jan. 2003

Srimath Andavan’s short tour programme

28^th Jan.  Kanchipuram Ashramam

29^th Jan.  Kurugai Kaavalappan Temple

30^th Jan to 2^nd   Feb.  Srirangam Ashramam

3^rd   Feb. to 4^th   Feb.   Kalyanapuram

5^th   Feb. to 10^th Feb.   Srirangam Ashramam

10^th Feb.  7 P.M.  Arrival at Chennai Ashramam 

Sri Paduka Charities is organizing “Samashti Upanayanam” at Chennai Andavan Ashramam, on Maasi Pushyam Day,14^th Feb.2003.

The entire expenses is bourne by the Charities, for the benefit poor Brahmin boys of all the 3 sects, Vaishnava, smartha and maadva.

Srimath Andavan Ashramam is providing a golden opportunity to eligible vidyarthees to learn Saama Vedam.Sri Saamam Devanathachariar is presently staying in the ashramam itself.The classes will be handled by him under the direct supervision of His Holiness.Vidyarthees will be paid stipend for the studies.

26th Jan.2003

Srimath Andavan is on a short sanchaaram. Yesterday H.H. left for a village near Kanchipuram called Aakkoor. Tomorrow morning the Maha Samprokshanam of Sri Ambujavalli Naayikaa Sametha Sri Lakshminarayana Perumal temple at that place will be held in the presence of Srimath Andavan Swamigal.More on this will follow along with other tour programme of H.H.

At the end of this short sanchaaram H.H. will be returning to Chennai Ashramam on 10thFeb 2003

20th Jan.2003

Photogallery is updated with some recent events connected with Ashramam

15 December 2002 News Update

His Holiness Srimath Andavan is continuing his camp in Chennai.The last one month had a busy schedule for H.H. Maha Samprokshanams of Sri Lakshmi Narasimhar Swamy Temple at Palaya Seevaram, near Kanchipuram on 11-Nov and also of Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple in Sriperumbuthur were held in the immediate presence of Srimath Andavan Swamigal. This temple is near the Sriperambudhur temple tank. This temple has Swami Desikan, Chakrath azwaar, Nam azwaar, Thirumalai Nambigal and Sri.Bhashyakaarar installed and maha samprokshanam was held in the presence of Srimath Anandvan. 

On 6-Nov His Holiness participated in the meetings held in support of Prevention Forcible Religious conversion act of Tamil Nadu Govt,along with Sri Sankarachariar of Kanchi Mutt. 

On 9-Nov there was a function for release of a book on Eminent Tamil Brahmins Contributions to Society,in which H.H. participated, along with Sri Sankarachariar.

On 20-Nov Srimath Anadavan presided in veda sammelanam oraganized by Yogakshema trust at Triplicane. 

On 21-Nov Srimath Andavan visited Ponpathar koodam and performed Mangalasaasanam of Chaturbhuja Raman temple. He also inaugurated newly constructed marriage hall there. After this H.H visited Ponviliantha kalathur and did mangalasaasanam of Sri Lakshmi Narashimhan temple.

On 01-Dec there was another function in Narada Gana Sabha,for the release of Harikatha Cassette . of Sri Kalyanapuram Aravamudachariar on Sri Andal Tirukkalyanam.The release was done by H.H.The function was organized by the family members of Srivilliputhur Dr. Sankaranarayanan.A full report along with photograph on this appeared in The Hindu,dtd. 13th Dec. 

On 11-Dec H.H presided over the 31st anniversary and arts festival of kapali fine arts wherein the title of Nada Kalajyothi was conferred on the violinist Kunnadi Vaidyanathan. Srimath Anadavan in his address said music transcended the barriers of language at the same time, music shorne of bhakti could not have a transcending effect on people. 

On 16-Dec Srimath Andavan presided over the 102nd annual festival of Sri Parthaswamy Swami Sabha wherein he conferred the title of Sangeetha Kalasarathy on the famous vocalist Sri. M. Balamuralikrishna. In his address Srimath Andavan explained the significance and the nuances of the Sangeetha sampradhayam, sruthi and gnanam.

From 16-Dec H.H is performaing Dhanur maasa aaradhana at Mylapore ashramam. Everyday evening Srimath Andavan delivers the discourse on Thiruppavai and this will conclude on 15-Jan with Sri Andal Thirukalyanam.

At Sri Paduka Vihara Bhavanam, Anna Nagar, Chennai, this year’s Tiruppavai will be rendered by Srikaryam Swamy,Sri Narasimha Raghavachariar .This is held for the 11th consecutive year under the auspicious of Srimath Andavan Ashramam.

28 October 2002 News Update

The message received from Sri R.Rajagopal,National Committee Chairman,is repeated here. I am pleased to inform that, with the Blessings of the Poorvacharyas' Padukas & as per the mandate of H.H. Srimad Andavan, we have formally inagurated the "Srimad Andavan Veda Patasala" on Sunday the 27th October 2002 at Thiruchanur. During June 2002, we had purchased a plot measuring exactly 6 grounds to build i) an Asramam cum Veda Patasala & ii) a Kalyana Mandapam, a project estimated to cost Rs. 65.00 lakhs including the cost of land. Tenders had been floated for the construction from leading civil contractors in Thirupathi, a contractor was identified for this project in a transparent manner and the works have been taken up in right earnest.

It was however decided that we will not wait till the Veda Patasala building was completed to actually start the Patasala but take on lease a building and commence the classes a.s.a.p. The auspicious date was fixed by our Asthana Ganapati Swamin, the local Trustee Sri Chakravarthi & our Sama Veda Pundit Sri Soundararajan were entrusted with the job of organising the start up. They have done this admirably, have fixed up the Rikhwikhs for teaching the Vidhyarthis, have given wide publicity in many parts of Andhra Pradesh to recruit the Vidhyarthis, have taken a new house on lease for a very reasonable rent of Rs.2500/- p.m., have made all the arrangements for commencing the classes, the mobilisation of the Vidhyarthis started on the the Vijayadasami Day (15th October) and organised the inauguration very competently on the 27th October. The Srikaryam Swami, many Trustees, some parents and other members of the public attended this solemn inaugural session with the Ganapati Swamin leading the Vidyarthis through their initial lessons.

Three Rikhwikhs have been appointed, two for Yajurveda and one for Rigveda, so far 18 Vidhyarthis have joined, 8/10 more are expected to join before the end of October, a cook and an Administrative Assistant are on the job. This is the fourth Veda Patasala taking the total strength to over 110 vidyarthis, we are scheduled to start the fifth Patasala at Thiruvahindrapuram very soon, the Asramam building is not fully ready and this is scheduled during the month of Karthigai (before 15th December 2002).

The Patasala will incur a revenue expenditure of around Rs.50,000/- per month (to start with) inclusive of free boarding, overheads, the stipend of Rs.500/- per Vidyarthi per month, Salaries etc.

Eventually the children will also receive training in Spoken English, Mathematics, handling of Computer etc., The Vaduvur Patasala is going at full steam and may complete the initial Shakai course ahead of schedule by end November 2003 and the second batch of Vidyarthis will be recruited then. A family of committed Sishyas have offered their house free, on lease for an initial period 15 years (yes years NOT months!!) to accommodate the expected increase in the strength of the Vidyarthis.

25 October 2002 News Update

Courses on Ahama Sastra & Harikatha were inaugurated at Sri Ranaganatha Paduka Vidyalaya, Srirangam on 19th Oct. This function was held with the blessings of His Holiness , who was instrumental to give impetus to these fields of activity, for the benefit of future generations. These are in addition to the Veda patasalas, recently started functioning at Vaduvoor, Kanchipuram, Tiruchanoor.Another Patasala is coming up at Tiruvaheendipuram also. Srimath Andavan was also appreciative of the recent Tamilnadu State Govt.project on (free) anndaanam schemes at various temples for the benefit of poor pilgrims visiting those temples. On behalf of Srimath Andavan Ashramam a cash donation of Rs. 2.5 lakhs was donated . The payment was handed over to the Chief Minister Ms. J.Jayalalithaa, by Ashramam Srikaryam, Sri Narasimha Raghavachariar Swamy on 22nd Oct., in the presence of Sri Eyetex Rajagopal and Sri V.S.Narasimhan.

19 October 2002 News Update

H.H. Srimath Andavan Swamigal arrived at Sri Paduka Vihara Bhavanam, Anna Nagar, Chennai on the evening of 5th October was accorded traditional welcome. On the following day, coinciding with Mahalaya Amavasya, Perumal and Paduka Aaraadanams were conducted and more than 100 devotees received theertha prasadams and manthratchadai from His Holiness. Several of them stayed for Thadheeyaradanam, which followed subsequently. That evening after Acharayan and kainkaryaparars sambavanai, H.H. was given a warm send off that evening. From there H.H. proceeded to Mylapore Ashramam .

At the junction of Sri Desikachari Road,H.H. was accorded a rousing reception by hundreds of devotees, accompanied by Nathaswaram and temple umbrellas.Srikaryam Swamy presented the Poorna Kumbam.Thereafter at the entrance of Ashrmam several devotees awaited for His arrival, received Him with another Poorna Kumbam, Sri N. Rangachariar Swamy, senior most devotee of our Ashramam, and Mangala Aarathi.

At the meeting held subsequently,Srikaryam Swamy gave the welcome speech, followed by Sri R. Rajagopal, National Committee Chairman. This followed by Temple honours from Sri Srinivasa Perumal Sannathi, Mylapore and Sri Lakshmi Hayagreevar Sannathi,Nanganallur. Towards the end Srimath Andavan delivered Anugraha Bhashanam.

During the meeting it was announced that H.H. will be staying for nearly 4 months, in Chennai Ashramam. This year Thiruppavai discourse at the Ashramam during Dec./Jan will be given by H.H.

On 14th October , H.H. inaugurated a new course to be introduced in Sriranagam Patasala, that is "Harikatha" course. This is mainly to preserve the ancient art and H.H. is very keen to support this cause. This is also the brainchild of Srimath Andavan Ashramam's Aasthaana Vidwan Sri Kalyanapuram Aravamudachariar Swamy,one of the current day's authority in Harikatha. Today's inauguration function was presided by Sri Justice K.S.Bhaktavatsalam, former high court judge and chairman, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Chennai.The classes at the Srirangam vidyalaya will commence on 19th October.

21st September 2002 News Update

Today was the completion of 14th Chaturmasya Sankalpam of H.H.Sri Ranga Ramanuja Mahadesikan, atSripuram(Bangalore) Ashramam. From the morning there was a large gathering of devotees.After Perumal and Paduka aaraadanams "theertha prasadams" were distributed. This was followed by "thirumudi vilakkam" for H.H. On arrival back at Ashramam, H.H. was received with Mangala Aarathi at the entrance.

A farewell meeting was organised by the Ashramam Committee, headed by Sri Badri Narayanan. Sri Karyam Swamy in his speech stessed the strong bond which our Sampradayam has with Karnataka, as Sri Bhashyakarar,though born in Sriperumbuthur,in Tamil Nadu established 64 simhasanathipathees in Karnataka.Moreover, Thirukkudanthai Andavan also had strong roots in Karanataka, as H.H. made several "Adhikarees"in Azhwar's "Arulichcheyal", in Bangalore and other places in Karanataka.

Srimath Andavan later gave Anugraha Bhasahanam,and said that it is a great "bhagyam" to be a sishya of Sri Ramanuja. They will be "sudhdhargal", possess good "vridhdhi",and further they are like pearl necklaceadorning the mother earth. Then H.H. blessed everyone to be " SRi Ramanujeeyargal".

The function ended with Srimath Andavan honouring all the committee members, This was followed by,Acharya Sambavanai and also to all Kainkaryaparars.

It may be noted that everyday attendance by ladies outnumbered gents. Tomorrow, after Uththanam, Sri Akkoor Andavan's Thirunakshatram will be celebrated at Sri Ravi Narayanan's residence at Jaya Nagar.

20th September 2002 News Update

Srimath Andavan Swamigal is completing the 14 th Chaturmasya Sankalpam on this Saturday, 21st sept. at Sripuram ( Bangalore) Ashramam. The Ashramam Committee headed by Sri Badrinarayanan and supported ably by Sri K. T .Seshadri Iyengar has made elaborate arrangements on all the days in these 2 months for the successful conduct of the Sankalpam and Srimath Andavan is very pleased on this.Everyday many devotees had their Samasranam and Prapaththi.Several devotees had Dolothsavam in their houses of Sri Venugopalan in the newly made Dolai adorned with precious stones.

Uththanam of this Sankalpam will take place on 22nd and on that day Thirunakshatram function of Sri Aakoor Andavan will be held at the Jayanagar
residence of Sri Ravinarayanan.Thereafter will be camping in Jayanagar Ashramam for a week.

Last week at Jayanagar Ashramam, H.H. inaugurated a Hostel with free boarding and dining,meant for poor Brahmin boys, who are studying in various schools in Bangalore. Accomodation is for 108 students.The Ashramam committee headed by Sri Ramesh and ably supported by other members of the committee,will be mobilising funds themselves for supporting this activity.

Jayanagar committee is also starting free cosulting Dispensary with Doctors volunteering to do free service for poor people.

 18-09-2002 Update

News Update -15th Sept. 02

    Today at Sripuram Ashramam, Bangalore, Thirunakshathram function of Srimath Srinivasa Ramanuja Mahadesikan,was celebrated in a grand manner,in the presence of His Holiness. As usual large number of devotees attended and obtained Manthratchadai. Avani month was very important to our Ashramam as many as 5 previous Acharyas' Thirunakshtram functions were being celebrated in this month.
     
Srimath Vazhuththoor Andavan
Srimath Kaadanthethi Andavan
Srimath Therazhundur Andavan
Srimath Thenpirai Andavan
Srimath Mysore Andavan

It is also to be noted that Srimath Aakkoor Andavan, Sri Srinivasa Mahadesikan's  Thirunakshtram also will be celebrated in Bangalore on 22nd Sept.

Other useful informations from Ashramam

The 14th Chaturmaya sankalpam of His Holiness will be completed on 22nd Sept. After Uththanam on that day, H.H. will be camping in Bangalore Jayanagar Ashramam for a week before proceeding to Chennai, via Kanchipuram. H.H. will arrive in Kanchipuaram on 3rd Oct. and will be paying Managalasaasanam of Sri Devaperumal Temple on 4th Oct. After Aaraadanam  on 5th Oct. H.H. will be reaching Sri Paduka Vihara Bhavanam ,Anna Nagar, Chennai on the afternoon of 5th Oct.  Aaaraadanam will be performed on the morning of 6th Oct.,which incidentally is Mahalaya Amavasyai day. H.H. will be given a warm reception ,on His arraival at Chennai Ashramam at Alwarpet on the evening of 6th Oct. As per the information His Holiness is likely to be in Chennai till Feb. 2003. Thereafter H.H. is likely to proceed to Hyderabad .
 

17-06-2002 Update

Srimath Andavan's Vijaya Yathra 2002 Tour Plan

15th June Departure Chennai

16th June Thiruvahindrapruam

17th June Cuddalore

18th June Neiveli, Mannargudi

19th June Vaduvoor

20th to 23rd June Thirukkudanthai to H.H. inaugurates and attends Thiruppavai Mahotsavam and Sriman Nathamunigal Uthsavam being arranged by Sri Kalyanapuram Aravamudachariar.

24th June and 25th June Oppiliappankovil

26th and 27th June Vazhuthur

28th June to 10th July Srirangam Perisashramam

11th July Pudukkottai

12th and 13th July Thiruppullani

14th and 15th July Alwar Thirunagari

16th and 17th July Madurai

18th July Dindugul

19th July Srirangam Periashramam

20th and 21st July Salem

21st Evening - arrives Bangalore Sripuram Ashramam

22nd July to 21st Sep Bangalore Sripuram

Important Events:

21st June 2002 Sri Perialwar Thirunakshathram

23rd June 2002 Sriman Nathamunigal Thirunakshathram

24th July 2002 Chathurmasya Sankalpam

11th Aug 2002 Thiruvadipooram - Sri Andal Thirunakshathram

25th Aug 2002 Srimath Vazhuthur and Therazhundhur Andavan's Thirunakshathrams

27th Aug 2002 Srimath Thenpirai Andavan's Thirunakshathram

8th Sep 2002 Srimath Mysore Andavan's Thirunakshathram

14th Sep 2002 Srimad Kadanthethi Andavan Thirunakshathram
 

12-06-2002 Update

For previous newsletters and updates please look in the Archives