8th August, 2013, Thursday.
Bangalore, Karnataka.
Time: 16:30hrs
I started from my Wipro office and headed towards Majestic or the Bangalore Railway station. I was to board Bangalore-Mumbai Udyan Express to Pune. August 8th, 2013 is the date for which I had been waiting for quite some time. The reason being the fact that I was to travel to a place near Pune, to meet a wise and just person. Considering the way, the world is moving, it is rare to find wise and just people. But this man near Pune has stubbornly stood wise and just, adhering to His principles. He likes crows. But people who come to meet him come in Fortuners, Honda City, Dusters, Etios etc etc. He is a good person. A good brother to his brothers and sisters, a loyal husband to his wife, a good son, a good disciple to his teacher and a good friend to those who are good in character.
About His birth:
As per stories coming from His village, His mother prayed intensely when He was in her womb. She use to fast regularly praying to Lord Shiva. Hence he was born powerful, wise and just. His father was also a learned person. But during a quarrel, He found his father unjust. Even as a young boy, he couldn't tolerate indiscipline. He felt his father was behaving unjust by quarrelling with his mother. He threw his powerful glance on his own father and he suffered.
Now it's pretty obvious. The wise and just person near Pune was none other than Shani Dev, otherwise known as Shaneeswaran. Shaneeswaran is the son of Sun God (Surya) and Goddess Chaya Devi. His brother is Yamaraj and his sister's name is Yamuna. Since birth, till date He has been wise and just. Shani admires hardwork, discipline, maturity, respect for elders, respect for women and children, honesty, sincerity and loyalty. Shani hates disrespect of women, disrespect of elders, laziness, deceit etc. Shani is the significator of huge iron equipments and iron vehicles. He rules over oil, minerals, metals, transportation and goverment related aspects of life.
Lord Shiva & Shani Dev:
Shani Dev - known as celestial task master of the universe is a stern teacher. A school teacher teaches lessons and keeps test. While Shani Dev keeps test and after testing is over, He teaches the lessons. He is impartial. As law-maker, He is free of emotions. He doesn't shows compassion towards anyone. He doesn't knows the meaning of nepotism. Once Shani Dev, informed Lord Shiva that He would be passing over His moon sign. Shiv Jee replied,"I am your Guru. You intend to test me as well ?". Shani Dev patiently replied,"It is my duty. You have given me this task. You have told me to make people realize their shortcomings in life. I am doing only my duty". Lord Shiva agreed. Shani Dev replied,"I would be moving above your zodiac sign in some time. Please do be prepared".
Shiv Ji travelled to earth and transformed himself to an elephant and hid in a jungle to escape from Shani's effect. For the entire duration of Shani's period, He hid in a jungle as an elephant to escape from Shani. After Shani's period was over, Lord Shiva returned to Mount Kailash. Shani Dev was already waiting there to meet him. Shiva asked,"Shani, you are here ? Weren't you suppose to cast your glance on me ? But you are searching for me here. The entire duration of your period seems to be over, but you haven't impacted me. Did you realize that I am your Guru, so you decided to spare me ?".
Shani Dev replied,"My Guru, where have you been ?".
Shiv Ji replied,"I was in a jungle. Hiding in the form of elephant."
Shani Dev, "You were hiding, just to escape from my inauspicious glance ?".
Shiv Ji,"Yes."
Shani Dev, "Then how do you say that you have escaped from my effect. You have already felt my effect. You have left your heavenly abode Kailash and hid in earth, like an ordinary human being."
Shiv Ji realizing the truth smiled and asked,"But Shani, why did you do this to me ? I am your Guru, but you didn't spare me also ?".
Shani Dev gives his reply as follows, a reply every human being should know,"Shiv Maharaj, you are my Guru. You are my Teacher. You are my creator. You gave me the task of making people realize their shortcomings. That is exactly what I did. But remember my Lord, what you did in Daksha's Yaga several years ago? Your father-in-law Daksha didn't have great opinions about you as you were a simple person living a modest life and he was a king. He wasn't happy to give his daughter Sati to you. But Sati liked you a lot and was deeply devouted to you. Hence she became your consort. Daksha conducted a pooja/Yaga, but purposefully didn't invite you and his daughter. He wanted to insult you. But your daughter still travelled to the yaga as an uninvited guest. Daksha insulted your daughter and her marriage to you. She couldn't tolerate it and she committed suicide by jumping into the holy fire. While it is understandable that bearing an insult is always a tough task for anyone. But what you did ? You have staged a destruction there. You have sent your 'booth ganas' (army) and destroyed his place. You beheaded Daksha and fixed the head of a goat to make him pay for his arrogance. But being the Lord of Universe, you have forgotten yourself and your principles. You have also fallen a victim to anger, ruthlessness, revenge which are actually characteristics of ordinary human being. It was extremely disheartening for me to cast my glance on you, but my duty was to make you realize this. I never enter anyone's life on my own. It is one's own actions that invites me into their life".
Shani Dev continued,"I am extremely sorry for causing misery. But that's my property. You have bestowed this task on me".
Lord Shiva: "I realize my mistake. What you say is right, I behaved like a ordinary human being. But no human being is free of good and bad deeds".
Shani Dev: "True. But I will help them. I will help them realize their shortcomings, strength and weakness and prepare them for their journey towards The Supreme God. Any human being's existence in world is to realize the glory of Almighty Supreme and once he realizes it, his journey towards Supreme begins. I will perform this task".
Shiv Ji admired Shani's humility, simplicity, wise and just character. He has been a good son to his parents, loyal husband to his wife, a good disciple to Him and a good brother to his siblings. Shiv Ji replied, "Shani, you have impressed me a lot. You have stood firm in your duty. You didn't ask for anything extra, fame or recognition. I bless you. You will be forever remembered for your wise and just nature. Wherever you are present, you will protect. Wherever you look, you will bring in your own qualities of maturity and discipline. In horoscope, whichever houses you transit, you will add your touch. Wherever you touch, you will add maturity. People address me as Easwar (Lord of Universe). But you deserve this title. You will also be addressed as 'Shaneeswar'. You will serve as role-model to all".
After accepting the honor title, Shani Maharaj left Mt. Kailash. He wasn't rich or affluent, neither owns a Honda City or a Duster, neither wears precious ornaments nor He is trendy in Jeans and round neck doing the yo-yo in shopping malls, neither He is a cool dude or a model, but He managed to bag the title through His wise and just nature.
Far away, millions of miles away, his father the Sun God admired his own son. He was proud that his son managed to bag the precious title of being addressed as God, something which He himself or any other planet hasn't got. But he was sad. His son is still far away from him, as his own relationship with his son was strained. (Saturn is the 6th planet from Sun). But Shani still made his father feel proud one way or another, as a son's success is often attributed to his parents. Interestingly, though Shani's relationship with his father is not good, He is still a good son as he goes around his father just like other planets acknowledging him as chief deity.
Back to 2013 ......
Time: 20:00 hrs, Bangalore, Karnataka.
Udyan Express was to start at 20:00hrs. Unfortunately, it departed only at 20:30hrs ! I was excited about the fact that I was travelling to Shani Shingnapur. I have heard about the town. Doorless houses, cupboards without locks, peace, happiness and a strong belief that Shani Bhagwan protects the entire village. I have travelled to quite a few places which had interesting background similar to this. But this trip was special. The reason being the fact the character of the deity Shani-wise and just. That's why I always address him as wise and just guy.
As a railfan/travel lover, it is my habit to walk to the front and see what locomotive is the power for the train. But this time, my mind was full of Shingnapur, so I didn't move out of my coach.
The journey was a bit slow. The train reached Dharmavaram only at 01:10hrs, but actual scheduled arrival time was around 00:10hrs. I was more focussed on staying awake for the day journey and enjoy the sceneries of Northern Karnataka and Solapur belt of Maharashtra-so I slept. I was feeling comfortable as it was 2A class, side lower berth. Any railfan or travel lover would love to get a side-lower berth.
0635hrs - My train reached Raichur-late by roughly one hour.
0740hrs - My train reached Yadgir-again late by an hour. But the run was good.
0945hrs - My train reached Gulbarga. I observed the climate as the train went through Shahabad, Martur. It was excellent. Bullock carts on muddy roads, peaceful villages, small towns and a cloudy weather.
The greatest injustice one could do to his life is to visit Maharashtra and come back without tasting vadapav. As my train was entering Solapur for a halt, I yelled out at one of the platform vendors, "Kaakka, ek vadapav". Got one with chillies. I speak limited Hindi and even that limited Hindi has majority of Bengali words and my pronunciation/accent is all influenced by Bengali, though I left Kolkata in 2010. Not content with one vadapav, I went for another one. Whenever, I cross Solapur, I make it a point to have atleast one vadapav.
The train had a long halt at Solapur. So I went and sat in one of the benches in the station - just opposite to my coach. I happen to notice quite a lot of engine movements (read engine as locomotives, but I like calling them engine). Solapur is quite a big happening place! Near to me I observed a couple of elderly people - in their mid 50's. A bit away from them I noticed quite a few school children in their uniforms. I assume that the kids were travelling with their teachers somewhere. Every time the kids were a bit mischievious, noisy; the teachers patiently asked them to keep quiet. They got excited every time an engine rolled past us. Every time they moved a bit far, the teacher would get up and run behind them to bring them back. This indicates the benevolent nature of the teachers.
This is evident in our Vedic Astrology. Brihaspati also known as Jupiter, Shukra also known as Venus are considered as 'teachers'. 100% jovial planets! They are benefic and they always try their best to give the best they can to an individual without expecting anything in return. It is to be noted that Venus or otherwise known as Shukracharya went to the extent of sacrificing his own eyes - to protect the dynasty, wealth and the race of his disciple Maha Bali. Teachers or Guru are the true well-wishers of any human being. That's one of the reasons why Jupiter transits are most sought after, as Jupiter is benevolent. However, those who don't learn their lessons under benevolent Jupiter, will learn lessons through Saturn - who is very uncompromising. This is one of the reasons why people who gained wealth during Jupiter transit, had a tough time during Saturn's period as the celestial task master wanted alignment with His principles. Jupiter can be considered as a school teacher, while Saturn is more like a college HOD or manager at workplace - very uncompromising when it comes to discipline and maturity, his intentions are not to harm anyone; the problem persists only when an individual clings to his own interests still, without aligning to Saturn's principles.
Back to Solapur ....
My journey towards Pune started after a brief halt. During the course of journey between Solapur and Pune - I got the friendship of one Mr. Sahastrabudhe - a person working with Oracle Corporation. It was a great experience interacting with him. It was a learning experience. I personally attribute this friendship to Shani Dev and his kripa. Friends are god sent. Later, I added him as my Facebook friend.
My train reached Pune bang on time! Pune wasn't that new to me, but certainly I don't know much about it. But I still felt like being in my father-in-law's territory! Walked straight into Gulmohar Hotel, just near the railway station and booked my accomodation. It was a bit expensive, as I was staying alone - but managed to negotiate the rates to a reasonable extent.
10th August, 2013.
At around 5:15AM, my journey towards Shingnapur started. I was thrilled and a bit happy. I felt happy as I got a chance to get darshan of the most wise and just guy in the universe. Even the journey was good. The section between Pune-Ahmednagar was scenic. It was my lucky day. It had rained a bit the day earlier, so the entire road stretch and surroundings were lush green. The journey was extremely good. Took a brief halt at a wayside hotel. Delicious Vadapav and Butter Masala Dosa was my breakfast.
At around 8:10 or 8:15AM, I reached Shingnapur. It was an excellent journey. As I travelled through the village, I saw that houses were without locks. I was a bit excited. I knew about this town and heard of it. But this was the first time, I was seeing it with my own eyes. People didn't lock their vehicles as well. Neither they were afraid to leave their houses unlocked. The lady folks were busy with their daily work, kids playing around, potters making clay pot, men leaving for work to work in farm, elders sitting in benches and possibly talking about glory of Shani Bhagwan. How else will the town be ? The town was filled with happiness, maturity, security, stability and joy. I could observe it in their faces. There was no sense of competition, jealousy and evil. I requested my driver Sailesh that I wish to take photograph of the doorless houses. I felt it would be improper to take photograph without permission, so I requested him to speak to the owner in Marathi and get permission for me.
Sailesh addressed the elderly person as "Kaakka" and spoke a few lines in Marathi. The person was more than happy and welcomed me to photograph his house. I went near the house and saw that there was a board written in Hindi, "Shani Kripa". It wasn't a board, but actually engraved in their house roof. I could observe that rice/wheat bags were lying all around outside under a shelter- it was unprotected. The cows were tethered and they were happy muching something. I was a bit stunned at the welcoming nature of the people. I never let anyone into my house that easily.
I was in for more shock when I entered into the house. I observed a few jewels kept in shelf - lying unprotected. Observed cash, notes as well. I remember that few years back, when my cousin brother working in Tesco UK, gifted me an expensive watch - I kept it in cupboard and locked it fearing that such an expensive thing in my hand could only bring me trouble. But here people were happy and living without fear. As I came out, the young girls of the house put their cloth on top of head-possibly a sign of respect as I am atleast a decade elder to them. I politely offered my thanks to the elders and proceeded towards the temple.
The temple was well maintained. The presiding deity is Shani Bhagwan - it's a rock statue. He is present without any shelter or roof. It is believed that even if anyone attempted to build a roof, they were unsuccessful. There was a tree nearby which grew and created a shade. As the branch grew over the shrine/statue, it automatically fell off - Shani Bhagwan gave vision in a dream to the village people, stating that he doesn't wishes to live under anyone's sign of royalty and He doesn't wants any roof to cover him. This shows his tamas, uncompromising and impartial nature. He stands without any roof, facing heat, rain - standing strong holding on to His principles of truth and justice.
There were lot of people taking pics in camera mobile, though officially photography is prohibited. Even I was a bit tempted to take pics and proudly show off in Facebook that I have visited Shingnapur, but I didn't want to project Him as a celebrity icon circulating his pics all over Facebook. I felt that I would rather show the existing pics in Internet to my parents. There were prayer halls, meditation halls and the place was well maintained.
After spending some 6-7 hours at the temple, I started my return journey. I observed that there were no astrologers around the temple complex. Probably, they themselves feared the wise and just guy and they don't want to predict anything wrong - and face his wrath!
I am not surprised that people of Shingnapur are wise and just. They are happy. This is not strange. Wherever Shani Bhagwan is present, then there is safety, security and happiness. He is a stern teacher and indeed a bit tough to handle, but he is also the wise, reliable and just planet. If a human being is willing to align Himself with his principles, then there is nothing to worry. There has been many stories about Shingnapur. It is believed that robbers and thief who did looting, returned back and handed over the looted items or they sent it back by courier. Also those who mis-behaved, committed atrocities, looted wealth experienced mental imbalance, lost their physical health and regretted for their misdeeds.
To read about Shingnapur in Wikipedia, please use below mentioned link:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shani_Shingnapur
To watch the movie on Shani Maharaj, please use below mentioned video link:
The movie name is Suryaputra Shani Dev.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-u_OX7aUhE
Story of the stone statue:
The statue is swayambhu in nature. Meaning it was not created, but existed on its own and appeared by itself. Hence it is very sacred, as it was not created by humans. A group of kids were playing near this statue. The kids touched the statue with their rod and it started bleeding. The villages came and were surprised to see this miracle. They tried moving the rock but weren't able to. It was already dark, so they left for the day, thinking next day morning something could be done. That night Shani Bhagwan appeared in the dream of the Village Head and instructed that two people having uncle-nephew relation only can move the rock. He adviced that he has come down to earth to bless and protect his devotees. The next day two villagers having similar relation were able to move the rock and they placed it comfortably at the temple. Since then, He is being worshipped with great reverence.
Source: Wikipedia content.
As per wikipedia, in January 2011, the United Commercial (UCO) Bank opened a 'lockless' branch in the village, the first of its kind in the country, taking note of the near-zero crime rate in the region. The local police were reported to be unhappy over this development and that it amounted to a breach of conditions because the Central Government of India has made it mandatory for all banks to have high security. The bank has doors, but they will always remain open. However, it was reported by the local legislator and the bank officials that adequate precautions were being taken for the safety of lockers and important documents.
List of famous personalities, movie actors, politicians, foreign dignatories who have visited Shani Shingnapur:
1. H.D. Deve Gowda-Former Prime Minister of India.
2. Vilas Rao Deshmukh-Chief Minister of Maharashtra
3. T.N.Seshan-Former Election Commissioner of India
4. Sharad Pawar
5. Manohar Joshi
6. Laloo Prasad Yadav
7. Swami Shankaracharya
8. Anna Hazare
9. Pranav Mukharji
10. Phulan Devi
11. Jayesh Shah of Zimbabwe
12. Shilpa Shetty
13. Sunil Shetty
14. Sanjay Datt
and many more......
......
On my way back to return journey, there was a bit of rain in the air. But I was able to reach Pune safely before 6PM. I had dinner at Hotel Sagar near railway station. A heavy one infact! Kulcha+Palak Soup+Paneer Butter Masala! After having a good dinner, I decided to move to railway station for some night 'railfanning' - watching trains - a hobby which I have since childhood. From 9PM till 1AM I was at railway station, watching trains.
The next day at 11AM, I took an Indigo flight and returned back to Bangalore. As I entered into my house, I was a changed man.........
Shani's purpose and existence is to thwart's one ego and make him/her turn towards God. Even people who didn't do any harm face the wrath of Shani as they haven't yet understood his lessons/principles fully. Glamour, excessive pride, wealth doesn't leads one to God. A soul's purpose of birth is to realize God. Shani helps in this aspect along with Ketu. One goes through a phase of learning where one realizes that all wealth, glamour, pride didn't give them permanent happiness, only turning towards God gives complete happiness. Once Shani is done with his teachings, Ketu takes over and bestows a rare ability to a individual to see God in a different perspective. To feel God without any barriers or limitations. Considered entirely a spiritual planet, Ketu is considered as the planet very close to God. Ketu is feared by many as ruthless, fierce energy. There is nothing to worry about him. Ketu is the only planet that can grant moksha and help a soul merge with God - The Supreme. Ketu shows in a non-materialistic way that one's life can be complete even without fame, recognition and wealth. Everything zeroes down towards one final goal. Experiencing that zeroness! Life is all about realizing God. That there is God and realizing his virtues, character through one's actions. Every soul will take birth again and again till the realization happens-the sole responsibility of the soul is to realize God through his actions. Realizing God, gradually creates the path to Moksha.
A baby is born, it grows into a disciplined boy, learns to respect elders/teachers, plays, matures into an adult, creates a family, runs a family, experiences emotions both sad and happiness, remembers elders with grattitude, treats siblings with love, worships God and leaves earth. If every phase is fine and aligned as per principles of God, then the soul is relieved from birth/death cycle. All above phases are different phases in life, though which one realizes God.
Wishing everyone the best life has to offer! Happy realizing God :-)
Thanks for the patient reading. Till I travel again, I bid adieu!
Regards,
Krishna Kumar Subramanian
IRFCA-SBC
www.irfca.org
Bangalore, Karnataka.
Time: 16:30hrs
I started from my Wipro office and headed towards Majestic or the Bangalore Railway station. I was to board Bangalore-Mumbai Udyan Express to Pune. August 8th, 2013 is the date for which I had been waiting for quite some time. The reason being the fact that I was to travel to a place near Pune, to meet a wise and just person. Considering the way, the world is moving, it is rare to find wise and just people. But this man near Pune has stubbornly stood wise and just, adhering to His principles. He likes crows. But people who come to meet him come in Fortuners, Honda City, Dusters, Etios etc etc. He is a good person. A good brother to his brothers and sisters, a loyal husband to his wife, a good son, a good disciple to his teacher and a good friend to those who are good in character.
About His birth:
As per stories coming from His village, His mother prayed intensely when He was in her womb. She use to fast regularly praying to Lord Shiva. Hence he was born powerful, wise and just. His father was also a learned person. But during a quarrel, He found his father unjust. Even as a young boy, he couldn't tolerate indiscipline. He felt his father was behaving unjust by quarrelling with his mother. He threw his powerful glance on his own father and he suffered.
Now it's pretty obvious. The wise and just person near Pune was none other than Shani Dev, otherwise known as Shaneeswaran. Shaneeswaran is the son of Sun God (Surya) and Goddess Chaya Devi. His brother is Yamaraj and his sister's name is Yamuna. Since birth, till date He has been wise and just. Shani admires hardwork, discipline, maturity, respect for elders, respect for women and children, honesty, sincerity and loyalty. Shani hates disrespect of women, disrespect of elders, laziness, deceit etc. Shani is the significator of huge iron equipments and iron vehicles. He rules over oil, minerals, metals, transportation and goverment related aspects of life.
Lord Shiva & Shani Dev:
Shani Dev - known as celestial task master of the universe is a stern teacher. A school teacher teaches lessons and keeps test. While Shani Dev keeps test and after testing is over, He teaches the lessons. He is impartial. As law-maker, He is free of emotions. He doesn't shows compassion towards anyone. He doesn't knows the meaning of nepotism. Once Shani Dev, informed Lord Shiva that He would be passing over His moon sign. Shiv Jee replied,"I am your Guru. You intend to test me as well ?". Shani Dev patiently replied,"It is my duty. You have given me this task. You have told me to make people realize their shortcomings in life. I am doing only my duty". Lord Shiva agreed. Shani Dev replied,"I would be moving above your zodiac sign in some time. Please do be prepared".
Shiv Ji travelled to earth and transformed himself to an elephant and hid in a jungle to escape from Shani's effect. For the entire duration of Shani's period, He hid in a jungle as an elephant to escape from Shani. After Shani's period was over, Lord Shiva returned to Mount Kailash. Shani Dev was already waiting there to meet him. Shiva asked,"Shani, you are here ? Weren't you suppose to cast your glance on me ? But you are searching for me here. The entire duration of your period seems to be over, but you haven't impacted me. Did you realize that I am your Guru, so you decided to spare me ?".
Shani Dev replied,"My Guru, where have you been ?".
Shiv Ji replied,"I was in a jungle. Hiding in the form of elephant."
Shani Dev, "You were hiding, just to escape from my inauspicious glance ?".
Shiv Ji,"Yes."
Shani Dev, "Then how do you say that you have escaped from my effect. You have already felt my effect. You have left your heavenly abode Kailash and hid in earth, like an ordinary human being."
Shiv Ji realizing the truth smiled and asked,"But Shani, why did you do this to me ? I am your Guru, but you didn't spare me also ?".
Shani Dev gives his reply as follows, a reply every human being should know,"Shiv Maharaj, you are my Guru. You are my Teacher. You are my creator. You gave me the task of making people realize their shortcomings. That is exactly what I did. But remember my Lord, what you did in Daksha's Yaga several years ago? Your father-in-law Daksha didn't have great opinions about you as you were a simple person living a modest life and he was a king. He wasn't happy to give his daughter Sati to you. But Sati liked you a lot and was deeply devouted to you. Hence she became your consort. Daksha conducted a pooja/Yaga, but purposefully didn't invite you and his daughter. He wanted to insult you. But your daughter still travelled to the yaga as an uninvited guest. Daksha insulted your daughter and her marriage to you. She couldn't tolerate it and she committed suicide by jumping into the holy fire. While it is understandable that bearing an insult is always a tough task for anyone. But what you did ? You have staged a destruction there. You have sent your 'booth ganas' (army) and destroyed his place. You beheaded Daksha and fixed the head of a goat to make him pay for his arrogance. But being the Lord of Universe, you have forgotten yourself and your principles. You have also fallen a victim to anger, ruthlessness, revenge which are actually characteristics of ordinary human being. It was extremely disheartening for me to cast my glance on you, but my duty was to make you realize this. I never enter anyone's life on my own. It is one's own actions that invites me into their life".
Shani Dev continued,"I am extremely sorry for causing misery. But that's my property. You have bestowed this task on me".
Lord Shiva: "I realize my mistake. What you say is right, I behaved like a ordinary human being. But no human being is free of good and bad deeds".
Shani Dev: "True. But I will help them. I will help them realize their shortcomings, strength and weakness and prepare them for their journey towards The Supreme God. Any human being's existence in world is to realize the glory of Almighty Supreme and once he realizes it, his journey towards Supreme begins. I will perform this task".
Shiv Ji admired Shani's humility, simplicity, wise and just character. He has been a good son to his parents, loyal husband to his wife, a good disciple to Him and a good brother to his siblings. Shiv Ji replied, "Shani, you have impressed me a lot. You have stood firm in your duty. You didn't ask for anything extra, fame or recognition. I bless you. You will be forever remembered for your wise and just nature. Wherever you are present, you will protect. Wherever you look, you will bring in your own qualities of maturity and discipline. In horoscope, whichever houses you transit, you will add your touch. Wherever you touch, you will add maturity. People address me as Easwar (Lord of Universe). But you deserve this title. You will also be addressed as 'Shaneeswar'. You will serve as role-model to all".
After accepting the honor title, Shani Maharaj left Mt. Kailash. He wasn't rich or affluent, neither owns a Honda City or a Duster, neither wears precious ornaments nor He is trendy in Jeans and round neck doing the yo-yo in shopping malls, neither He is a cool dude or a model, but He managed to bag the title through His wise and just nature.
Far away, millions of miles away, his father the Sun God admired his own son. He was proud that his son managed to bag the precious title of being addressed as God, something which He himself or any other planet hasn't got. But he was sad. His son is still far away from him, as his own relationship with his son was strained. (Saturn is the 6th planet from Sun). But Shani still made his father feel proud one way or another, as a son's success is often attributed to his parents. Interestingly, though Shani's relationship with his father is not good, He is still a good son as he goes around his father just like other planets acknowledging him as chief deity.
Back to 2013 ......
Time: 20:00 hrs, Bangalore, Karnataka.
Udyan Express was to start at 20:00hrs. Unfortunately, it departed only at 20:30hrs ! I was excited about the fact that I was travelling to Shani Shingnapur. I have heard about the town. Doorless houses, cupboards without locks, peace, happiness and a strong belief that Shani Bhagwan protects the entire village. I have travelled to quite a few places which had interesting background similar to this. But this trip was special. The reason being the fact the character of the deity Shani-wise and just. That's why I always address him as wise and just guy.
As a railfan/travel lover, it is my habit to walk to the front and see what locomotive is the power for the train. But this time, my mind was full of Shingnapur, so I didn't move out of my coach.
The journey was a bit slow. The train reached Dharmavaram only at 01:10hrs, but actual scheduled arrival time was around 00:10hrs. I was more focussed on staying awake for the day journey and enjoy the sceneries of Northern Karnataka and Solapur belt of Maharashtra-so I slept. I was feeling comfortable as it was 2A class, side lower berth. Any railfan or travel lover would love to get a side-lower berth.
0635hrs - My train reached Raichur-late by roughly one hour.
0740hrs - My train reached Yadgir-again late by an hour. But the run was good.
0945hrs - My train reached Gulbarga. I observed the climate as the train went through Shahabad, Martur. It was excellent. Bullock carts on muddy roads, peaceful villages, small towns and a cloudy weather.
The greatest injustice one could do to his life is to visit Maharashtra and come back without tasting vadapav. As my train was entering Solapur for a halt, I yelled out at one of the platform vendors, "Kaakka, ek vadapav". Got one with chillies. I speak limited Hindi and even that limited Hindi has majority of Bengali words and my pronunciation/accent is all influenced by Bengali, though I left Kolkata in 2010. Not content with one vadapav, I went for another one. Whenever, I cross Solapur, I make it a point to have atleast one vadapav.
The train had a long halt at Solapur. So I went and sat in one of the benches in the station - just opposite to my coach. I happen to notice quite a lot of engine movements (read engine as locomotives, but I like calling them engine). Solapur is quite a big happening place! Near to me I observed a couple of elderly people - in their mid 50's. A bit away from them I noticed quite a few school children in their uniforms. I assume that the kids were travelling with their teachers somewhere. Every time the kids were a bit mischievious, noisy; the teachers patiently asked them to keep quiet. They got excited every time an engine rolled past us. Every time they moved a bit far, the teacher would get up and run behind them to bring them back. This indicates the benevolent nature of the teachers.
This is evident in our Vedic Astrology. Brihaspati also known as Jupiter, Shukra also known as Venus are considered as 'teachers'. 100% jovial planets! They are benefic and they always try their best to give the best they can to an individual without expecting anything in return. It is to be noted that Venus or otherwise known as Shukracharya went to the extent of sacrificing his own eyes - to protect the dynasty, wealth and the race of his disciple Maha Bali. Teachers or Guru are the true well-wishers of any human being. That's one of the reasons why Jupiter transits are most sought after, as Jupiter is benevolent. However, those who don't learn their lessons under benevolent Jupiter, will learn lessons through Saturn - who is very uncompromising. This is one of the reasons why people who gained wealth during Jupiter transit, had a tough time during Saturn's period as the celestial task master wanted alignment with His principles. Jupiter can be considered as a school teacher, while Saturn is more like a college HOD or manager at workplace - very uncompromising when it comes to discipline and maturity, his intentions are not to harm anyone; the problem persists only when an individual clings to his own interests still, without aligning to Saturn's principles.
Back to Solapur ....
My journey towards Pune started after a brief halt. During the course of journey between Solapur and Pune - I got the friendship of one Mr. Sahastrabudhe - a person working with Oracle Corporation. It was a great experience interacting with him. It was a learning experience. I personally attribute this friendship to Shani Dev and his kripa. Friends are god sent. Later, I added him as my Facebook friend.
My train reached Pune bang on time! Pune wasn't that new to me, but certainly I don't know much about it. But I still felt like being in my father-in-law's territory! Walked straight into Gulmohar Hotel, just near the railway station and booked my accomodation. It was a bit expensive, as I was staying alone - but managed to negotiate the rates to a reasonable extent.
10th August, 2013.
At around 5:15AM, my journey towards Shingnapur started. I was thrilled and a bit happy. I felt happy as I got a chance to get darshan of the most wise and just guy in the universe. Even the journey was good. The section between Pune-Ahmednagar was scenic. It was my lucky day. It had rained a bit the day earlier, so the entire road stretch and surroundings were lush green. The journey was extremely good. Took a brief halt at a wayside hotel. Delicious Vadapav and Butter Masala Dosa was my breakfast.
At around 8:10 or 8:15AM, I reached Shingnapur. It was an excellent journey. As I travelled through the village, I saw that houses were without locks. I was a bit excited. I knew about this town and heard of it. But this was the first time, I was seeing it with my own eyes. People didn't lock their vehicles as well. Neither they were afraid to leave their houses unlocked. The lady folks were busy with their daily work, kids playing around, potters making clay pot, men leaving for work to work in farm, elders sitting in benches and possibly talking about glory of Shani Bhagwan. How else will the town be ? The town was filled with happiness, maturity, security, stability and joy. I could observe it in their faces. There was no sense of competition, jealousy and evil. I requested my driver Sailesh that I wish to take photograph of the doorless houses. I felt it would be improper to take photograph without permission, so I requested him to speak to the owner in Marathi and get permission for me.
Sailesh addressed the elderly person as "Kaakka" and spoke a few lines in Marathi. The person was more than happy and welcomed me to photograph his house. I went near the house and saw that there was a board written in Hindi, "Shani Kripa". It wasn't a board, but actually engraved in their house roof. I could observe that rice/wheat bags were lying all around outside under a shelter- it was unprotected. The cows were tethered and they were happy muching something. I was a bit stunned at the welcoming nature of the people. I never let anyone into my house that easily.
I was in for more shock when I entered into the house. I observed a few jewels kept in shelf - lying unprotected. Observed cash, notes as well. I remember that few years back, when my cousin brother working in Tesco UK, gifted me an expensive watch - I kept it in cupboard and locked it fearing that such an expensive thing in my hand could only bring me trouble. But here people were happy and living without fear. As I came out, the young girls of the house put their cloth on top of head-possibly a sign of respect as I am atleast a decade elder to them. I politely offered my thanks to the elders and proceeded towards the temple.
The temple was well maintained. The presiding deity is Shani Bhagwan - it's a rock statue. He is present without any shelter or roof. It is believed that even if anyone attempted to build a roof, they were unsuccessful. There was a tree nearby which grew and created a shade. As the branch grew over the shrine/statue, it automatically fell off - Shani Bhagwan gave vision in a dream to the village people, stating that he doesn't wishes to live under anyone's sign of royalty and He doesn't wants any roof to cover him. This shows his tamas, uncompromising and impartial nature. He stands without any roof, facing heat, rain - standing strong holding on to His principles of truth and justice.
There were lot of people taking pics in camera mobile, though officially photography is prohibited. Even I was a bit tempted to take pics and proudly show off in Facebook that I have visited Shingnapur, but I didn't want to project Him as a celebrity icon circulating his pics all over Facebook. I felt that I would rather show the existing pics in Internet to my parents. There were prayer halls, meditation halls and the place was well maintained.
After spending some 6-7 hours at the temple, I started my return journey. I observed that there were no astrologers around the temple complex. Probably, they themselves feared the wise and just guy and they don't want to predict anything wrong - and face his wrath!
I am not surprised that people of Shingnapur are wise and just. They are happy. This is not strange. Wherever Shani Bhagwan is present, then there is safety, security and happiness. He is a stern teacher and indeed a bit tough to handle, but he is also the wise, reliable and just planet. If a human being is willing to align Himself with his principles, then there is nothing to worry. There has been many stories about Shingnapur. It is believed that robbers and thief who did looting, returned back and handed over the looted items or they sent it back by courier. Also those who mis-behaved, committed atrocities, looted wealth experienced mental imbalance, lost their physical health and regretted for their misdeeds.
To read about Shingnapur in Wikipedia, please use below mentioned link:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shani_Shingnapur
To watch the movie on Shani Maharaj, please use below mentioned video link:
The movie name is Suryaputra Shani Dev.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-u_OX7aUhE
Story of the stone statue:
The statue is swayambhu in nature. Meaning it was not created, but existed on its own and appeared by itself. Hence it is very sacred, as it was not created by humans. A group of kids were playing near this statue. The kids touched the statue with their rod and it started bleeding. The villages came and were surprised to see this miracle. They tried moving the rock but weren't able to. It was already dark, so they left for the day, thinking next day morning something could be done. That night Shani Bhagwan appeared in the dream of the Village Head and instructed that two people having uncle-nephew relation only can move the rock. He adviced that he has come down to earth to bless and protect his devotees. The next day two villagers having similar relation were able to move the rock and they placed it comfortably at the temple. Since then, He is being worshipped with great reverence.
Source: Wikipedia content.
As per wikipedia, in January 2011, the United Commercial (UCO) Bank opened a 'lockless' branch in the village, the first of its kind in the country, taking note of the near-zero crime rate in the region. The local police were reported to be unhappy over this development and that it amounted to a breach of conditions because the Central Government of India has made it mandatory for all banks to have high security. The bank has doors, but they will always remain open. However, it was reported by the local legislator and the bank officials that adequate precautions were being taken for the safety of lockers and important documents.
List of famous personalities, movie actors, politicians, foreign dignatories who have visited Shani Shingnapur:
1. H.D. Deve Gowda-Former Prime Minister of India.
2. Vilas Rao Deshmukh-Chief Minister of Maharashtra
3. T.N.Seshan-Former Election Commissioner of India
4. Sharad Pawar
5. Manohar Joshi
6. Laloo Prasad Yadav
7. Swami Shankaracharya
8. Anna Hazare
9. Pranav Mukharji
10. Phulan Devi
11. Jayesh Shah of Zimbabwe
12. Shilpa Shetty
13. Sunil Shetty
14. Sanjay Datt
and many more......
......
On my way back to return journey, there was a bit of rain in the air. But I was able to reach Pune safely before 6PM. I had dinner at Hotel Sagar near railway station. A heavy one infact! Kulcha+Palak Soup+Paneer Butter Masala! After having a good dinner, I decided to move to railway station for some night 'railfanning' - watching trains - a hobby which I have since childhood. From 9PM till 1AM I was at railway station, watching trains.
The next day at 11AM, I took an Indigo flight and returned back to Bangalore. As I entered into my house, I was a changed man.........
Shani's purpose and existence is to thwart's one ego and make him/her turn towards God. Even people who didn't do any harm face the wrath of Shani as they haven't yet understood his lessons/principles fully. Glamour, excessive pride, wealth doesn't leads one to God. A soul's purpose of birth is to realize God. Shani helps in this aspect along with Ketu. One goes through a phase of learning where one realizes that all wealth, glamour, pride didn't give them permanent happiness, only turning towards God gives complete happiness. Once Shani is done with his teachings, Ketu takes over and bestows a rare ability to a individual to see God in a different perspective. To feel God without any barriers or limitations. Considered entirely a spiritual planet, Ketu is considered as the planet very close to God. Ketu is feared by many as ruthless, fierce energy. There is nothing to worry about him. Ketu is the only planet that can grant moksha and help a soul merge with God - The Supreme. Ketu shows in a non-materialistic way that one's life can be complete even without fame, recognition and wealth. Everything zeroes down towards one final goal. Experiencing that zeroness! Life is all about realizing God. That there is God and realizing his virtues, character through one's actions. Every soul will take birth again and again till the realization happens-the sole responsibility of the soul is to realize God through his actions. Realizing God, gradually creates the path to Moksha.
A baby is born, it grows into a disciplined boy, learns to respect elders/teachers, plays, matures into an adult, creates a family, runs a family, experiences emotions both sad and happiness, remembers elders with grattitude, treats siblings with love, worships God and leaves earth. If every phase is fine and aligned as per principles of God, then the soul is relieved from birth/death cycle. All above phases are different phases in life, though which one realizes God.
Wishing everyone the best life has to offer! Happy realizing God :-)
Thanks for the patient reading. Till I travel again, I bid adieu!
Regards,
Krishna Kumar Subramanian
IRFCA-SBC
www.irfca.org
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