Millions of Hindus take a holy dip the famous Brahma Sarovar at Kurukshetra in Haryana on the Surya Grahan or solar eclipse day. The Brahma Sarovar located here is a highly sacred ‘Tirth’ and it is believed that Lord Brahma began the creation process from here. Lord Krishna discussed the Bhagavad Gita with Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra and the greatest battle in epic Mahabharata also took place here. It is widely believed that to bath in the in Brahma Sarovar in Kurukshetra is equal to performing the famous Ashwamedha Yajna or Yagam mentioned in several Hindu scriptures. During the Surya Grahan period it is a mela like atmosphere in Kurukshetra. It is also said that all the holy waters in the rivers mentioned in the Hindu scriptures flow to the Brahma Sarovar Tirth during solar eclipse. It must be also noted that during the famous 18-day Kurukshetra battle fought in the Mahabharata, on the fourteenth day of the battle a total solar eclipse takes place, which helps ...

Divorce is a significant life event, and dealing with it can be challenging, both emotionally and practically. In Hinduism, divorce is often seen through the lenses of cultural, religious, and social norms. While Hindu scripture and traditional beliefs value the sanctity of marriage, modern Hindu society recognizes that sometimes, separation is the best path forward. Here are some ways to deal with divorce from a Hindu perspective: Spiritual and Emotional Guidance: Seek Inner Peace and Clarity : Meditation and Yoga : Engaging in regular meditation and yoga can help calm the mind and provide clarity during difficult times. Practices like Bhakti Yoga (devotion) or Jnana Yoga (knowledge) can guide you towards inner peace and self-understanding. Prayer and Mantras : Reciting prayers or mantras such as the Gayatri Mantra or Mahamrityunjaya Mantra can offer solace and strength. Visiting temples or having a dedicated space for worship at home can also be comforting. Counseling and Support...

Managing emotions is a fundamental aspect of human experience, and Hinduism offers a rich tapestry of teachings and practices to help individuals navigate their emotional landscapes. Here are several insights and methods from Hindu philosophy, scriptures, and practices that guide emotional management: 1. Understanding the Mind and Emotions The Three Gunas (Qualities) : According to the Bhagavad Gita, the mind is influenced by three gunas—Sattva (purity, harmony), Rajas (activity, passion), and Tamas (inertia, darkness). Emotions can be managed by cultivating Sattva, which brings clarity and balance. The Nature of the Self : Hindu philosophy teaches that our true self (Atman) is distinct from the mind and emotions. Understanding this helps in not identifying too closely with transient emotional states. 2. Mindfulness and Meditation Meditation (Dhyana) : Regular meditation calms the mind and provides insight into the nature of emotions, reducing their impact. Techniques like observing th...

The sweet Panchamirtham prasadam of the famous Lord Muruga Temple in Tamil Nadu will soon be produced by automated machines. At present, it is being prepared by hands and only the crushing and mixing of fruits is partly automated. Panchamirtham, considered to be the oldest form of jam, is made from bananas, dates, raisins, sugar, ghee, cardamom and sugar candy. There is an ever increasing demand for this sweet prasadam of Lord Muruga. Palani Muruga Temple is visited by more than 200,000 in a month and the numbers double during festival seasons. The temple administration cites following reason to shift from handmade to machinery Hygiene. Increase the production to meet the high demand. To give a constant taste to Panchamirtham Prasadam – it used vary when it was prepared manually. Hindustan Times reports The automated units have a chain of crushing, mixing filling and packing machines and the production was expected to commence in the first week of Augu...

Ennui, often described as a profound sense of boredom, disillusionment, or existential crisis, can be deeply unsettling. The Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata, provides profound insights into dealing with such states of mind. Here are some key teachings from the Bhagavad Gita that can help address ennui: 1. Dharma (Duty and Purpose) Verses: Bhagavad Gita 2.47, 3.8 Concept: The Gita emphasizes the importance of following one’s dharma or duty. This involves understanding and committing to one’s role in life, whether it is personal, professional, or spiritual. Application: Reflect on your responsibilities and roles. What are you uniquely positioned to contribute? Engage in activities that align with your strengths and interests. Focus on performing your duties without being attached to the results. This can give a sense of purpose and reduce feelings of disillusionment. 2. Detachment and Equanimity Verses: Bhagavad Gita 2.47, 2.48 Co...

In Hindu philosophy, the concept of the world as a dream in the mind of God is a profound and poetic metaphor often used to describe the nature of reality. This idea is deeply rooted in various Hindu scriptures and philosophical traditions, particularly in the Advaita Vedanta school. Here's a detailed exploration of this concept: The World as Maya Maya (Illusion): In Hinduism, the term "Maya" is used to describe the illusory nature of the world. According to this concept, the world we perceive with our senses is not the ultimate reality but an illusion created by our minds. Maya suggests that our experiences and perceptions are like a dream, transient and deceptive, masking the true nature of reality. Brahman and the Dream Brahman (The Ultimate Reality): Brahman is the supreme, unchanging reality, amidst and beyond the world, which cannot be exactly defined. Brahman is often described as infinite, eternal, and beyond all forms. The material world, in this view, is a manif...

The phrase "All your heavens are part of your ignorance" can be interpreted through the lens of Hindu philosophy and teachings. It reflects a deeper understanding of the nature of reality, enlightenment, and the human perception of the divine. Context and Interpretation Concept of Maya (Illusion) : In Hinduism, Maya refers to the illusion or the appearance of the phenomenal world. It is the veil that obscures the true reality, which is Brahman (the ultimate, unchanging reality). The heavens, or celestial realms, are often considered part of Maya. They are still within the realm of illusion because they are not the ultimate truth but rather stages or levels of existence. Pursuit of Moksha (Liberation) : The ultimate goal in Hinduism is to attain Moksha, liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara), and to realize one's unity with Brahman. Seeking heavens or celestial pleasures can be seen as distractions or lesser goals. They are temporary and still within the cy...

(It must be noted that Bhagavad Gita is also referred as Hindu Bible in the West but this is topic is on a different subject) The wholesale dealers of Christianity cannot tolerate and respect other cultures and religions. They have destroyed nearly 90% of the cultures around the world. Due to the crude business tactics and cunning methods employed by the wholesale dealers, Christianity failed in India and in Muslim countries miserably but that has not stopped the Vatican and missionaries from perusing its hidden agenda of conversion. Timesonline in an article titled ‘Vatican hopes Indian Bible will translate into surge of converts’ discuss this yet another attempt by Christianity to harvest souls in India . ‘The calculation is that India is the last great missionary front on Earth,’ John L. Allen Jr, a Vatican expert based in Rome . The tactic to conquer the last great missionary front is to use the secular culture of Hindus to attack them. It might sound strange but Vati...

In the context of Hindu wisdom, the statement "In Self Realization, The God You Were Seeking Disappears Because The God Was Created By You" encapsulates profound spiritual insights about the nature of divinity and self-awareness. 1. The Concept of Self Realization Self Realization in Hindu philosophy, particularly in Advaita Vedanta, is the understanding and experience of one's true self, which is identical with Brahman, the ultimate reality. It transcends the individual ego and the illusion of separation from the divine. 2. The Illusion of a Created God The idea that "The God You Were Seeking Disappears" refers to the realization that the conceptual image or idea of God that one holds is often a mental construct. This constructed deity is shaped by cultural, religious, and personal influences and is limited by the human mind's capacity to understand the infinite. 3. The Role of Maya Maya, in Hindu philosophy, is the illusion or ignorance that veils the true...

Once upon a time, in the celestial realms, there lived a Gandharva named Shatrudhanu. Gandharvas, known for their musical prowess and enchanting dances, often performed in the divine courts of the gods. Shatrudhanu was among the most talented, singing and dancing gracefully in the presence of Lord Vishnu. The Arrival of Sage Ashtavakra One auspicious day, Sage Ashtavakra, a revered sage known for his wisdom and spiritual power, came to visit Lord Vishnu. Ashtavakra's body was uniquely contorted, with eight bends, which gave him his name (Ashta means eight, and vakra means bent or crooked). Despite his physical appearance, he was highly respected for his immense knowledge and spiritual accomplishments. Shatrudhanu's Laughter and the Curse As Shatrudhanu was performing, his eyes fell upon the sage's unusual form. Unable to control himself, he burst into laughter and momentarily lost the rhythm of his song. This act of mockery, though not intended with malice, deeply offended ...

Once Hanuman went in search of Rama and Lakshmana in the netherworld, he faced numerous challenges and obstacles. Using his immense strength and divine powers, he fought his way through until he reached the palace of Mahiravana, the powerful demon king who had captured Rama and Lakshmana with the intention of sacrificing them. Upon entering the palace, Hanuman found Rama and Lakshmana bound and guarded heavily. Despite the urgency of the situation, Hanuman knew he needed a precise plan to rescue them and defeat Mahiravana. He decided to seek guidance from the wise and powerful Goddess Mahamaya, who was revered in the netherworld for her wisdom and divine insight. Transforming himself into a tiny bee, Hanuman discreetly flew to the temple where Goddess Mahamaya resided. As he buzzed around the temple, he found the Goddess in deep meditation. With great respect and humility, he addressed her, "O Divine Mother, Mahiravana has captured Rama and Lakshmana and intends to sacrifice t...

‘Jai Shri Krishna’ serial on Colors Viacom 18 Television Channel is yet another mythological series based on Hindu religion that explores the childhood adventures of Lord Krishna. Update: The little kid who plays the role of Child Krishna is hugely popular with television audiences around the world and the adorable and cute child is making the serial hugely popular. About ‘Jai Shri Krishna’ serial from the makers A multi-layered, magnificent epic tale of this universal God will trace Natkhat Gopal’s journey from his birth under dire circumstances to being taken to Gokul and being nurtured by his surrogate mother Yashoda. The story of Murli Manohar transcends across all age groups with his mischievous yet, sweet and playful actions compelling the Gopis of Gokul to designate him as ‘Makhan Chor’. Jai Shri Krishna serial chronicles the growing up years of the Krishna in Gokul and then moves to Mathura wherein Krishna takes on his evil uncle Kans and frees his parents an...

Yet another book on Hinduism titled ‘The Strides of Vishnu – Hindu Culture in Historical Perspective’ by Ariel Glucklich, Professor of Theology at Georgetown University , provides a rich and compelling introduction to Hindu culture. The book, published by Oxford University Press, uses historical material to explore important religious, scientific, aesthetic and philosophical ideas of the Hindu world. Each important and engaging viewpoint in the book is supported by substantial quotations from scriptures and other Hindu texts. Another highlight of the book is its focus on historical, cultural and archaeological aspects. Apart from an engaging introduction, the book has twelve chapters: 1. The Dig and the Temple 2. Sacred Knowledge and Indian Origins 3. A City Where the Rivers Meet 4. King Janaka's Contest 5. Vedic Science: The Grammar of Reality 6. Kanishka and Krishna 7. Performing Arts and Sacred Models 8. The Second Rationality 9. Maps and Myths in the Matsya Purana...

Hanuman, in his relentless quest to rescue Lakshmana and Rama, discovered that they had been abducted by the demon king Mahiravana and taken to the netherworld via a secret tunnel. Determined to save them, Hanuman entered the tunnel and emerged in an extraordinary world. The sun shone brightly, casting a golden glow over everything. The sacred river Ganga flowed there in a mystical form known as Bhogavati, enhancing the surreal beauty of the place. Hanuman also encountered many revered sages, including the venerable sage Kapila. As Hanuman ventured deeper, he spotted the magnificent palace of Mahiravana. Concealing his true form, he stealthily infiltrated the palace, his eyes scanning for any signs of Rama and Lakshmana. The palace was a sight to behold, filled with people of exceptional beauty and houses constructed from pure gold. Amidst his search, Hanuman climbed a tall tree situated by a serene lake, choosing this vantage point to observe his surroundings. From his perch, Hanuman ...

The Bhagavad Purana is one of the most important Puranas that narrates about the divine actions of Lord Vishnu. It is one of the Mahapuranas and is also noted for its philosophical discussions. Karnataka Bhagawatha is a 16th century translation of the Bhagavad Purana by Nityatma Sukhayogi in Kannada. It was written on palm-leaf manuscripts by Ramannaiah. Now the entire Karnataka Bhagawatha composed in 11,682 poems on 232 palm leaves has been published in book form by Holalkere R Chandrasekhar. Ramannaiah was one of the forefathers of H R Chandrasekhar. Holalkere R Chandrasekhar is a professor of Physics in the University of Missouri in Columbia and transcribing, translating and editing the mammoth book took more than a decade. The original palm leaf manuscript had to be microfilmed then transferred to computer and then edited into print format. Karnataka Bhagawatha is in two volumes and each volume contains more than 700 pages along with illustrations and color plates. It ...

Underwater search for Lord Krishna’s Dwarka on Gujarat coast on the west coast of India is an ongoing process and occasionally Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) comes with vital clues regarding the existence of an ancient city , which was swallowed by sea. A new book titled ‘Underwater Archaeology of Dwarka and Somnath’ by National Institute of Oceanography, Goa, India, details the scientific analysis of systematic explorations carried out in Dwarka and Somnath. The book is writeen by A.S.Gaur, Sundaresh and K.H.Vora and they have published several other research papers on the same topic. Epic Mahabharata mentions about the phenomenon of sea level rising and the total destruction of Dwarka as predicted by Lord Krishna. Many people scoffed it as wild imagination and fiction. But today sea level rising and swallowing land is a common phenomenon and it is happening around the world. Once oceanography accepted sea level rising as a fact, large-scale excavations have been taking pl...

The story of Mahiravana and boon given to him by Goddess Mahamaya is an intriguing tale from the Indian epic, the Ramayana. It highlights themes of devotion, boons, and the triumph of good over evil. Background Mahiravana, a powerful sorcerer and king of Patala (the netherworld), was the son of Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. Known for his immense power and mastery of dark magic, Mahiravana sought to be invincible and prayed to Goddess Mahamaya, a powerful deity, to grant him immortality. The Boon Mahiravana’s devotion and severe penance impressed Goddess Mahamaya. When he asked for the boon of immortality, the Goddess, in her wisdom, refused to grant it. Instead, she offered him a different boon. She decreed that Mahiravana would be invincible in battle, except when confronted by humans (nara) and vanaras (monkey-like beings). This boon gave him immense power and confidence, as he believed that humans and vanaras posed no significant threat to his might. The Abduction of Rama and Lak...

Ekta Kappor’s New Mahabharat Serial titled ‘Kahaani humaaray Mahabharat ki’ now being aired on 9X channels is different in all aspects. It is too different that there is no Mahabharata instead what we have is a potboiler which uses the story of Mahabharat to display flashy costumes – reminding one of Hollywood mythical movies – and weapons straight out of videogames. Everything is trendy and different but without soul and no Mahabharata culture. Total disrespect to ancient Indian culture and lack of proper research is evident in all aspects of the serial. Don’t even think about comparing Ekta’s New Mahabharat Serial with BR Chopra’s Mahabharat. The Mahabharata of 90s even though unsophisticated was full of innocence but what it lacked in technology it made up with immortal songs and dialogues and performances by the lead actors. This new version Mahabharata deliberately tries to be different and wants to present something which is fresh and something that the Indians have ne...

Thiruvakkarai Vakrakaliamman Temple, located in Tamil Nadu, holds significant spiritual importance due to its unique and powerful rituals. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, known for her fierce and protective nature. Among the many rituals and offerings at this temple, the special pujas performed on Pournami (full moon) and Amavasya (new moon) days stand out for their unique timing and profound spiritual impact. Pournami (Full Moon) Puja On Pournami, the full moon day, the temple comes alive with devotees who seek the blessings of Goddess Kali. The special puja, known as the Goddess Kali Jyoti darshanam, is conducted precisely at 12:00 AM midnight. This timing is believed to be highly auspicious, as the energies of the full moon are said to amplify the power of the prayers and rituals performed. The midnight puja is a serene yet powerful event, where the divine energy of Goddess Kali is invoked to bless the devotees. It is a common belief that participating in this puja helps i...

The Vakra Shivlingam, housed in the renowned Thiruvakkarai Vakrakaliamman Temple (also known as the Chandramouleeswarar Temple) in Tamil Nadu, India, is a mystical and revered object of worship. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and his fierce consort, Goddess Kali, attracts numerous devotees and tourists, particularly due to the unique phenomena associated with the Shivlingam. The Thiruvakkarai Vakrakaliamman Temple Located in the village of Thiruvakkarai in the Viluppuram district of Tamil Nadu, the Vakrakaliamman Temple is steeped in mythological significance. The temple is known for its rich history, intricate architecture, and the powerful presence of Goddess Kali. Apart from Shiva and Vakrakaliamman, the temple also has a shrine dedicated to Varadaraja Perumal The Enigmatic Vakra Shivlingam At the heart of this temple lies the Vakra Shivlingam, a unique representation of Lord Shiva. The term "Vakra" means "curved" or "twisted," signifying ...

In Hinduism, Goddess Kali is revered as a powerful deity who can help devotees overcome difficulties associated with Rahu and Ketu doshas, which are astrological conditions believed to cause various problems in one's life. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to worship Goddess Kali to seek her blessings and alleviate the negative effects of these doshas: 1. Preparation for Worship Cleanse Yourself and the Area : Take a bath and wear clean clothes. Ensure that the worship area is clean and free from any disturbances. Set Up an Altar : Place an image or idol of Goddess Kali on a clean altar. Decorate the altar with flowers, incense, and other offerings. Gather Offerings : Red color flowers, such as hibiscus or roses, are particularly significant for Goddess Kali. Additionally, you can offer fruits, sweets, and other items she is believed to favor. 2. Invocation and Prayer Light a Lamp : Light a ghee lamp or an oil lamp in front of the deity. Chant Mantras : Recite Kali mantras to inv...

Ashada Jatara Bonalu Festival is an important annual ritual held at the famous Sri Ujjaini Maha Mahakali Kali Temple at Secunderabad in Telangana in the Telugu Month of Ashada. In 2025, Ashada Jatara Bonalu Festival at Sri Ujjaini  Mahakali Temple is on July 13. Rangam festival will be observed on July 14. Bonalu is an important Hindu festival dedicated to Mother Goddess in the Telangana region and is a major event in Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Sri Ujjaini Mahakali Temple is an important sacred place dedicated to Shakti worship in Andhra Pradesh. The deity was installed here in the beginning of 19th century by some devotees from Ujjaini. The devotees were part of an army contingent and when they arrived at Secunderabad, the place was hit by a major cholera outbreak in which thousands of people died. Some of the soldiers in the army contingent returned to Mahakali Devasthanam at Ujjaini and prayed to the Goddess to save Telangana region from the grip of...

Sage Mrikandu, a revered sage in Hindu mythology, longed to witness the divine Vishwaroopam (universal form) of Lord Vishnu. To fulfill this desire, he sought guidance from Lord Brahma, the creator. Brahma, impressed by Mrikandu's devotion, advised him to perform penance on the banks of the Krishna Bhadra river, which is now known as the 'Thenpennai River' in Tamil Nadu. With unwavering faith, Sage Mrikandu, accompanied by his devout wife Mitravati, journeyed to the riverbank. They settled there and commenced their rigorous penance. The couple dedicated themselves to their spiritual practices and also engaged in acts of charity, feeding the hungry and helping those in need, embodying the true spirit of Dharma. One day, to test the depth of Mrikandu's devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared before them in the guise of an old Brahmin. The Brahmin, looking weary and hungry, approached the sage's hermitage and requested food. Despite the late hour and the lack of prepared food, ...

In the celestial realms, Sankakannan, one of Shiva's devoted ganas (attendants), faced a grave predicament. He had failed in his duty to guard Parvati, Shiva's consort. This lapse in duty angered Shiva, leading to Sankakannan being cursed to be born on earth as a mortal. Thus, Sankakannan was reborn as Balasiddha in the tranquil village of Bommapalayam in Tamil Nadu. As Balasiddha grew up, he was deeply inspired by the tales of Murugan, the valiant son of Shiva and Parvati, particularly the story of Murugan's epic battle with the demon Soorapadman. Convinced that only Murugan could absolve him of his curse, Balasiddha devoted himself to worshipping the deity with unwavering faith and dedication. Despite Balasiddha's fervent prayers, Murugan, respecting the divine order established by his father Shiva, initially refused to lift the curse. Even the heartfelt pleas of his consorts, Valli and Devasena, couldn't sway his decision. This steadfastness led to an unexpected ...

Karkidakam month (July – August) in Kerala is observed as Ramayana Masam in Kerala.  Below is the details reagarding Malayalam Ramayana MP3 - how to download. Each day in the month is dedicated to the reading of the epic Ramayan. The reading is scheduled in such a way that the entire Ramayanam is read by the last day of the Karkidakam month. The Ramayanam that is read during the month is the Malayalam version of Adhyatma Ramayanam by Thunchathu Ramanujan Ezhutthachan Now you can download the reading of the complete Adhyatma Ramayanam of Thunchathu Ramanujan Ezhutthassan at the website Guruvayoor.com. The audio book is around 22 hours in length and is in MP3 format and is rendered by Dr. A.P.Sukumar. The Ramayana reading is broken into small MP3 files of various sizes. There is also a jpeg format of the Ramayana text in Malayalam too on the website. You can also listen to Ramayanam reading online. You can download or listen online in this link Malayalam Ra...

‘Mahima Shani Dev Ki’ a new television serial based on Lord Shani will be aired on NDTV Imagine from July last week. Lord Shani Dev is one among the Navgrahas in Hinduism and Sani’s impact on astrological charts is popularly believed to be responsible for the bad times that one has to go through in life. Shani is the son of Surya (Sun God) and Chhaya and in Hindu religion there is lot of negativity and superstition attached to Shani Dev. The television serial is produced by Sagar Arts noted for the Ramayana serial currently being aired on NDTV and the popular Ramayan serial of 90s. The makers of the serial claim they will trying to alleviate some of these. Mahima Shani Dev Ki will have its premiere on NDTV Imagine Saturday, July 26, 2008 at 2000hrs Indian Standard Time. Saturday has been chosen deliberately as Lord Shani is the God of Saturday or Shanivar and special pujas are held on this day to get his blessings. Mahima Shani Dev Ki will be aired at 2000hrs Indian Sta...

The story of how the rooster and peacock came to be associated with Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya, is a significant part of Hindu mythology and devotion, particularly in Tamil Nadu. Murugan, revered as the god of war and victory, faced the formidable demon Soorapadman, who had been causing immense suffering and havoc. According to the legends, Soorapadman was blessed with immense strength and a boon that made him nearly invincible. The final battle between Murugan and Soorapadman was fierce and monumental. Soorapadman, desperate to evade defeat, transformed himself into a massive tree. Recognizing the demon's trickery, Murugan wielded his divine lance, the Vel, with great precision and might. With one powerful strike, he split the tree in two. As the tree split, Soorapadman realized the futility of his resistance and his many transgressions. Overcome with remorse, he begged Murugan for mercy and vowed to remain with the deity in service for all eternity. Murugan, known for ...

Aadi is the fourth month in the Tamil Calendar. Aadi Pirappu means ‘the first day’ or the beginning of the month Aadi’. The day and the month are of great significance as Dakshinayana Punyakalam begins on this day – sun changes its course. Next six months from Aadi to Margazhi is considered to be the nighttime of the Devas. In 2025, Aadi Pirappu is on July 17. Since it is the beginning of the nighttime of Devas people believe that the month is not auspicious and important ceremonies should be held during this month. But the month is also noted for numerous festivals and rituals therefore there is also an argument that the month is auspicious. The month is also considered highly auspicious for the worship of Goddess Amman. On the Aadi Pirappu day people visit nearby temples and pray for a hassle free month as the monsoon is at its peak. Related Is Aadi auspicious or inauspicious?

The concept that "Supreme Truth is not something which can be handed over to you – it is to be experienced" encapsulates a fundamental aspect of Hindu philosophy and spirituality. This idea emphasizes the experiential nature of spiritual wisdom and enlightenment, suggesting that true understanding cannot simply be transmitted through words or teachings alone but must be personally realized. Key Elements of the Teaching Personal Experience Over Doctrine: In Hinduism, the Supreme Truth, or Brahman, is considered the ultimate reality. It is beyond the grasp of ordinary intellectual understanding and cannot be fully conveyed through external teachings or scriptures alone. Personal experience, or anubhava, is crucial. This means that individuals must undergo their own spiritual journey and practices (sadhana) to directly perceive and realize the truth. Role of the Guru: While a guru (spiritual teacher) is essential in guiding and providing wisdom, the guru can only point the way. ...