CHARAIVETI, CHARAIVETI: Life’s motto from Aitareya Upanishad

In the 100th episode of "Mann Ki Baat", Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to a mantra from the Upanishads that has been a source of inspiration for collective thinking in India for centuries. The mantra in question is "Charaiveti ,Charaiveti, Charaiveti", which embodies the life force that has been instrumental in strengthening the social fabric of India. Through this reference, Modi sought to highlight the enduring importance of the Upanishads and their continued relevance to the Indian way of life.

As we journey through life, we inevitably face a multitude of challenges that put our resolve and strength of spirit to the test. These challenges come in various forms, such as the demands of a challenging job, a health crisis, or the loss of a loved one. In such moments, it can be all too easy to become disheartened, lose faith, and feel overwhelmed by negative emotions.

However, it is vital to maintain the right spirit by holding onto courage, faith, patience, and peace. These qualities enable us to remain steadfast in the face of adversity, to endure the hardships of life, and to emerge stronger on the other side. A powerful mantra that encapsulates this spirit of resilience is "Charaiveti Charaiveti Charaiveti", which reminds us to keep moving forward with the life force that sustains us. By cultivating this mantra in our hearts and minds, we can draw upon the wellspring of strength that lies within us and navigate life's challenges with grace and resilience.

"If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward." - Martin Luther King Jr.

The Aitareya-Upanishad reminds us that our true nature is to keep moving and serve the universe selflessly, even in times of difficulty. By maintaining a strong sense of aspiration and focusing on cultivating a positive mindset, we can sustain the right spirit and overcome any obstacle that comes our way. Ultimately, it is through our perseverance and resilience that we can fulfil our destiny and achieve true success in life.

“Honeybees move constantly to give honey; birds keep flying and the sun is perpetually emitting light. (So,) CHARAIVETI, CHARAIVETI (Keep Moving, Keep moving).”- Aitareya-Upanishad

CHARAIVETI, CHARAIVETI,

Keep moving, keep moving,

For life's journey is a marathon,

Not a race for the sprinting.

When the path is rocky and steep,

And the end seems far away,

Just remember to keep the faith,

And let hope light your way.

In moments of doubt and despair,

When the world seems dark and grim,

Find courage deep within your soul,

And let your spirit win.

Though the road may be long and tough,

 And doubts may fill your mind,

Stay calm and steady, don't give up,

For in motion, hope you'll find.

With trust in fate and destiny,

And a heart that's full of love,

You'll weather any storm that comes,

And rise to heights above.

So let us keep our spirits high,

And keep moving with all our might,

For in motion lies the secret,

To a life that's truly bright.

Like the bees that buzz around,

And birds that fly so free,

Let's follow nature's lead,

And keep moving with energy.

CHARAIVETI, CHARAIVETI,

 Keep moving, keep moving,

For in motion lies the key to life,

And the strength to keep improving.

As members of the universe, it is both our best option and obligation to keep moving forward and serving the universe. This principle, known as CHARAIVETI, reminds us to continue striving towards our goals and purpose in life, even in difficult situations. While we may not always be able to take the lead, we can still follow those who are selflessly working towards serving the universe. This concept of serving the universe can apply to various levels, including our planet, country, or even our local community. Ultimately, by maintaining a sense of purpose and focusing on serving others, we can contribute to the greater good and make a positive impact on the world with the right spirit.

To maintain the right spirit, it is essential to cultivate a calm and steady mind, even in the midst of chaos. The Gita emphasizes the importance of tolerating the temporary appearance of happiness and distress without being disturbed. We must strive to remain equanimous and not fall into the trap of negativity, worry, and despair. The Upanishads remind us that our deep, driving desire determines our will, deeds, and destiny. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a strong sense of aspiration and keep our deepest desires and goals in sight, even in the face of adversity.

Cultivating a positive mindset, seeking support from loved ones and spiritual communities, and engaging in practices that promote peace and clarity of mind, such as meditation, prayer, or yoga, are crucial in sustaining the right spirit of CHARAIVETI. Every difficulty we face is an opportunity for growth and transformation. The Gita emphasizes that the soul is eternal and unbreakable, and we have the strength and resilience to overcome any challenge in life.

"Life is like riding a bicycle, to keep your balance, you must keep moving." - Albert Einstein

In conclusion, sustaining the right spirit is essential in life. It means holding onto courage, faith, patience, and peace, even in the face of adversity. By cultivating a positive mindset, seeking out support, and engaging in spiritual practices, we can maintain our equanimity and navigate life's challenges with grace and strength.