AUM
The most sacred symbol in Hindu dharma, Aum (OM) is the sound of the infinite. Symbolizing the Brahman or ultimate reality, AUM is the essence of all mantras and is said to be the primordial sound that was present at the creation of the universe. Om is also called Pranava, Omkara, and Ekakshara and is believed to be the infuser and controller of life. The Upanishads state that everything, existent (A-kara – form or shape like earth, trees, U-kāra – formless or shapeless like water, air or fire) and non- existent (Ma-kāra – neither shape nor shapeless like the energy content of the Universe), can be grasped by uttering or visualizing the sacred symbol of AUM.
A – Akaara- Creation – Brahma – Rig Veda – Earth & Netherworld
U – Ukaara- Preservation – Vishnu- Yajur Veda – Atmosphere
M – Makaara – Destruction – Shiva– Sama Veda – Heaven
All the sounds produced by the human vocal organ can be represented by AUM. A is produced by the throat, U & M by the lips. It also represents the right (Analytical action), left (emotional reaction) Sympathetic Nervous Systems and (M) Parasympathetic Nervous Systems. The psychotherapeutic efficacy of AUM satisfies every need and ultimately leads to liberation. This is why nearly all the prayers and recitals of sacred passages are prefixed by the utterance of AUM.
AUM Golu
AUM Meditation
During meditation, when we chant Om, we create within ourselves a vibration that attunes with the cosmic vibration. In the momentary silence between each chant the mind moves between the opposites of sound and silence until, at last, it ceases the sound. This silence or the state of trance is what merges the individual self with the Infinite Self.
AUM & Lord Ganesha
One can also see the various forms of AUM, OM Ganesh and OM chants at our golu. The importance of AUM meditation with its four stages along with scenes from Mandukya Upanishad is also presented.
While lord Muruga explains the meaning of OM to Lord Shiva, we also explore why Mothers are referred to as ma, amma or mother in every language tracing the etymology of the words.
Since I am still in the process of setting it up, I will conclude here and tell you a bit about what I did the last two years for Navaratri golu.
Golu themes from previous years
2010- Durga Mata – her nine forms, the various Navaratri legends and how people in different regions of India celebrate the festival.
2009 – how the Contemporary Indian Woman is an Incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi.
Update – Got a Special Prize from Dinamalar, Akkam Pakkam golu contest. Find here a link to my Golu feature on Chennailivenews
I hope you find it interesting
Cheers
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