Triguna

Happy Friday!

Welcome to the edition of “Triguna.” (#243)

This year, the auspicious celebration of Navaratri began on October 3rd and culminates with the festival of Dasara on October 12th. Over these ten days, Hindu devotees offer prayers and revere Goddess Durga in a different form each day. There is a profound spiritual significance behind this tradition, which I’d like to share with you.

The Original Story of Dasara: A demon king named Mahishasura, who was half man and half buffalo, performed rigorous penance to please God Brahma. Pleased with his devotion, Brahma granted him a boon that he would never lose a battle against any man. Empowered by this boon, Mahishasura wreaked havoc and chaos, casting a shadow of fear across the world. He could not be defeated until Goddess Durga fought him in a battle that lasted nine days and ultimately killed him on the tenth day. Mahishasura represents the character trait known as Tamas (Tamo Guna).

Alternate Story: A great scholar and king named Ravana ruled the kingdom of Lanka. He was highly knowledgeable in subjects like astrology, Ayurveda, and political science, and possessed exceptional talent in warfare. However, his pride and ego led him to abduct Sita, the wife of another king, Rama, which eventually resulted in a war where Ravana was killed. The victory of Rama over Ravana is celebrated as Dasara in some parts of India. Ravana symbolizes the character trait known as Rajas (Rajo Guna).

Parallels in the Stories: Both stories reveal an interesting parallel. When news of Goddess Durga’s arrival spread, Mahishasura intended to marry her and sent his men to propose. One of his close advisors, Tamra, warned him, advocating for a peace deal instead. Similarly, Ravana’s brother, Vibhishana, advised him against abducting Sita and pleaded for her return to Rama, to prevent harm to their nation. Both Mahishasura and Ravana ignored the counsel and ultimately perished. Tamra and Vibhishana represent the character trait known as Satva (Satva Guna).?

Symbolically, Goddess Durga is depicted in different forms over the nine days, representing the three characteristic traits, or Triguna: Tamo Guna, Rajo Guna, and Satva Guna. This symbolizes that every human inherently possesses these traits, and the key message is to practice and attain balance.?

In practical terms, we all experience emotions that reflect the traits of Tamas and Rajas. The goal is to reduce Tamas as much as possible and moderate Rajas, understanding that while they are necessary, they should be limited. Unlike the stories where external entities restore balance, it is our inner consciousness that keeps us in check, provided we listen to it.

During this auspicious time, I wish and hope that each of you embraces the spirit of this festival and consciously practices the Satva Guna in your lives.

Stay safe, Stay healthy and Stay blessed.?Thank you and have a safe weekend.