Significance of Dusshera, Reality of Ravan as a Maha Pandit, And Vedic Astrology Rituals

Celebrated Medical Astrologer, Mr. Prashant Kapoor, a follower of Ravana’s wisdom and knowledge as a Maha Pandit, believes Ravana’s wisdom is hidden within the realms of his perceived evilness. Thus, we should spread his knowledge and wisdom for the health, prosperity, and well-being of all.

What better occassion than Dussehra to spread the teachings of Ravana, the brilliant scholar whose knowledge in Ayurveda, astrology, and spiritual practices is relevant to this day.

Dussehra is usually celebrated for the victory of goodness over evil. On this day, Lord Ram killed Ravana and saved his wife Maa Sita from the captivity. For eons, we have considered Ravana to be an evil man who kidnapped Devi Sita, and it was a good riddance when he was killed.

However, in this narrative of Evil Ravana, we have forgotten or failed to acknowledge the great scholar Ravana was. And how his teachings could be beneficial in today’s world. He was a Maha Pandit who introduced the world to medical astrology. Medical astrology creates a connection between human body parts, diseases and treatments and specific planetary positions. Mr .Prashant Kapoor, India’s first Medical Astrologer has studied in detail the teachings of Ravana’s knowledge in his book, Ravan Samhita.

Let us explore the unexplored part of Ravana.

Ayurveda

Ravana observed that Ayurveda establishes an equilibrium between mind, body, and environment. He wrote in Arka Prakasham, how the arka (calotropis) plant can treat skin diseases, digestive issues, high fevers, etc. He also emphasised how this plant creates an equilibrium in the body’s energies. His herbal treatments for vitality and detoxification also contribute to his vast knowledge about Ayurveda.

Medical Astrology

Your health isn’t dependent on an imbalance in the body, but also on planetary influences. Ravana believed in how a body can be treated using astrological insights. Ravana recommended wearing gemstones that could lead to better health. For example, wearing a blue sapphire could protect one against certain chronic diseases, and red coral could improve vitality and build physical resilience. Also, when one studies the planetary movements, one could undergo preventative measures against certain diseases.

Prosperity and Success

Ravana was a huge Shiv Bhakt who believed in the power of Shiva Tandav Stotram. Chanting this Stotram could bring prosperity and protect oneself from adverse conditions. Chanting this Stotram would lead to abundance in material wealth, more happiness, and spiritual growth.

Spiritual Well-being

Ravana believed in the power of meditation. Meditation improves clarity of mind and also leads to inner peace. Meditation helps to connect with the inner workings of oneself and overcome the mind’s obstacles: anger, desire, and greed, which lead to a more balanced and fulfilled life.

After understanding the lesser-known facts of Ravana, let’s return to the pious festival of Dussehra. This year, we will celebrate Dusshera on 2nd October. It is usually celebrated on the 10^th day of the lunar month of Ashwin. The following rituals should be done by each of us to celebrate Dussehra:

• As per Hindu traditions, devotees should perform puja of the Shami tree and exchange Apta leaves, marking a gesture of goodwill and prosperity.
• In some families, children are encouraged to write Om on rice, which symbolises an initiation to their education.
• Devotees should perform puja at home to bring wealth, prosperity, and happiness to their families.
• Devotees should donate food and clothing to the needy.
• As per Hindu Vedic culture, devotees should also recite Ramayana.

Thus, one should celebrate Dussehra with all fervour and good thoughts in mind. But one should also not forget the contribution of Ravana with regard to knowledge and wisdom.