October is an auspicious month for most of the Hindus because of Durga Devi’s arrival during which Aruna was born. So, it has a special significance in the hearts of her relatives and friends.

I have been trying to learn Sanskrit from my childhood and specially studying Srimad Bhagwat Mahapuran and MahaBhagwat Geeta but was not conversant with another Mahapuran called “Saptasati Chandi written by Maharshi Markandeya”.

A few years ago, Aruna explained me the significance of Durga Puja through this Mahapuran. I was amazed to learn her depth of knowledge that she acquired thorough her studies of this Mahapuran (that probably still exists in her personal collection in Ranchi). On her Birthday and on arrival of October every year I owe her a tribute for imparting this knowledge (Brahmavidya) to a friend.

I will conclude with a verse from Adi Guru Bhagawan Shankaracharya:

आदि गुरू भगवान शंकराचार्य ने कहा:

“ क्षणमपि सज्जन संगति रेका।
भवति भवार्णव तरने नौका ।।
भज गोविंदम्, भज गोविन्दम्, गोविन्दम् भज मूठमते ।।”

अगर आप (क्षणम् अपि) क्षणभर के लिए भी कोई सज्जन (पवित्र और भगवान भक्त) के (संगति रेका) समीप वार्तालाप करेंगे तो वही क्षणभर की पुण्य आपको (भवार्णव) भवसागर को पार कराने की
(नौका) नाव वन जाएगा ।

I feel blessed that I had the good fortune of spending a few invaluable moments learning from her.

I wish I had the right words to express my gratitude and respect … just know we care. I feel specially blessed to have you as a friend and cherish all the learnings and guidance I received. I know you are watching over us from Heaven. I wish I could be a bit of what you are.

Happy Birth from Heaven!!

Mummy,

Missing you on this very special day. Presenting you a beautiful lotus that bloomed in your garden when I was there this summer. You have left us so much beauty ❤️ I am so grateful to be your daughter. I hope I can be a little of what you are.

Love you!

Vani

Mummy was delighted to see Nagchampa blossoms and spoke about how graceful and beautiful they are. They grow in clusters in Victoria Memorial, worth a look..
She noticed that the yellow butterflies had returned and could be seen flitting in her garden. Is this because of lower air and noise pollution? she pondered.
And, how satisfying it was to see the birds taking a bath, she added.
Truly a person, one with nature, so pure and beautiful!