नमोनमः, क्रोधिसंवत्सरस्य शुभाशयाः सर्वेभ्यः। अयं नवसंवत्सरः दीर्घायुरारोग्यैश्वर्यादीनि अस्मभ्यं देयादिति श्रिया जुष्टं भद्रं प्रार्थये।

Today’s article will be primarily in English, as the verse is simple enough for even a beginner to understand. Let us focus on the meaning it imparts.

My favorite pastime is reading verses in Sanskrit, which brings me immense joy. There are moments when I find myself completely absorbed in the world of Sanskrit, only to be jolted back to the stark reality of our times. During one such deep dive, I stumbled upon a verse that imparts wisdom very much needed in today’s day and age.

I sometimes feel that our ancestors lived more fulfilling lives because they studied these verses and acted upon their wisdom. However, we, shaped by a colonial education system, often lack even the basic empathy and wisdom. Anyway, here is the verse, the source of which, I must admit, remains unknown to me.

आशा नाम मनुष्याणां काचिदाश्चर्यशृङ्खला। तया बद्धाः प्रधावन्ति मुक्तास्तिष्ठन्त्यचञ्चलाः।।

The poet elucidates that Desire is akin to a peculiar kind of noose. Typically, a noose holds a person in one spot. Conversely, a person freed from it is expected to roam freely. Yet, this noose named Desire operates in reverse: those bound by desire tend to wander aimlessly, while those released from the bonds of Desire remain steady, unswayed by the whims of the world.

Does this mean we should live the life of a saint? Of course not! Enjoy life, spend on yourselves, buy things that you like, but make decisions based on your affordability and income. Don’t chase after money, as one day you’ll realize that life has passed you by while you were pursuing wealth! Moderation in all things works wonders.

Anyway, let me conclude my musings (and gyan) here and wish you all a very happy weekend! and a very happy and prosperous Tamil New Year! May this New Year be filled with abundance and Success!