Questions on Accaram Anushtanam

Can the Neeraajana Deepam for Lakshmi Nrisimha be lit in one half of a broken coconut?

Pray for answers to the list of queries related to Paduka Aradhanam:

I perform Paduka Aradhanam during every Dwadasi before paranai. On days when Acharya Thirunakshatram occurs, I have also been advised only to offer fruits or kalkaNDu (Rock Sugar). Kindly explain why must we not offer Kesari, Paaysam, etc. for Paduka.

My preceptor is the current 46th Srimad Azhagiya Singar; but I am performing aradhanam for the Paduka-s of the 45th Srimad Azhagiya Singar; should I also possess the Paduka-s of Prakrutam Srimad Azhagiya Singar?

I am using separate lamps, plates, and vessels for Paduka aradhanam which are not used for Perumal Tiruvaradhanam. (I possess only one divine bell which I use for both Perumal and Paduka Tiruvaradhanam-s. Is this correct? Or must I buy a second divine bell for Paduka aradhanam?).

Why do we sprinkle (prokshanam) of Paduka teertham before partaking? And why do we first partake Perumal teertham and sprinkle later?

I have been told to perform Paduka aradhanam at a distance from the Perumal sanctum; but when is it said that one’s Acharya is supreme than even Perumal, why is Paduka aradhanam not performed along with Perumal Tiruvaradhanam? And why must Tulasi not be offered to the Paduka-s?

A solar eclipse is set to occur in the Americas this October; will be performing Perumal Tiruvaradhanam during the solar eclipse (along with chanting of Sri Vishnu Sahasranam, performance of tharpanam). Should the Paduka thirumanjanam be performed during the eclipse or after the eclipse?

Should we partake in tiffin in the evenings if we perform Devarishi, and Kandarishi tharpanam every day like we do during upakarma?

While we consider Goddess Mahalakshmi as our mother, then why do we followers of the Vadakalai tradition not celebrate the Varalakshmi vratam festival?

Should we render a prayaschitta prapatti through an Acarya like moksha prapatti or can it be performed before Perumal sanctum at home? If so, please clarify how to atone for the countless Bhagavad and Bhagavata apacarams that we commit both in the mind and through words. Should we seek forgiveness from those we err?

Is the Narayanopanisha starting with “atha puruSO ha vai nArAyaNO” considered a prashnam on its own or is it part of a part of a prashnam of the Vedas?

While saint Vyasa had categorized the Vedas for our ease of learning, then why do we have different dates in performing upakarma for each different Veda? Is utsarjanam on the same date for all or do the days differ?

Since the silk saris are made from silkworms, is it accepted by scriptures to wear silk saris for purity (maDi) purposes?

During Avani Avittam, should we perform upakarma first and then apply urdhvapundram and proceed with Perumal Tiruvaradhanam? Please explain the proper method

Adiyen’s elder brother-in-law (Paternal cousin brother, Chittappa’s son, of my husband) attained Acharyan Tiruvadi two days ago. Could not perform Avani Avittam due to asaucham. Can it be performed after the asaucham period? Please clarify.

When should the followers of Munitrayam and Gopalarya Desika tradition observe paranai after Sri Jayanthi?

Can shaving be done on Sundays/Mondays/Wednesdays/Thursdays when Ekadasi or Dvadasi do not fall on these days?

How to identify the difference between Piccam Ekadasi (of our Srivaishnava Ekadasi) and Harivasaram (the time before the occurrence of Dvadasi)?

Should we observe vriddhi theetu (taint on account of a birth) like taint due to death or can it be observed leniently like visiting relatives to celebrate the birth, eating sweets, applying vermillion, and accepting betel nuts?

Yagyam swami had mentioned these in his Veda Vaibhavam series:

Veda parayanam should be done without referring to books

Having learnt Vedam, without chanting them every day and reciting other similar stotras instead is considered a sin.

Please advise the relevant source for these.

Should the disciples of Ahobila Mutt perform Paduka Aradhanam every day or only during Dvadasi? Asking because I have heard that Mutt performs Paduka Aradhanam during Dvadasi.

Should only those who perform tharpanam during Amavasai partake tiffin at night? Is this applicable to others in the family or are they allowed partake tiffin or cooked rice at night?

Adiyen’s father observed ten days theetu for the demise of clansmen (paternal uncle’s wife) can he celebrate the forthcoming festivals?

On which days Tulasi should not be plucked in a year?

During the eclipse, some atonements/remedies are done for those who are born under certain stars and who are affected by the eclipse. What are the practices of our elders in this matter?

When younger ones attain Paramapadam, the elders do not accept the pitru sesham. Why differentiate the souls in terms of young or old? I have asked this question put forth to me.

Can we use millet (of different varieties) instead of rice during Ekadasi, Dwadasi, and Ammavasyai? If so, what are the millets that can be used on Ekadasi, and how to break them finely?

Should we do Achamanam during tharpanam performed during the eclipse?

Why should we do tharpanam during an eclipse? What is the significance?

Can shaving be done after punya kalam during the eclipse by both those who perform tharpanam and those who do not perform tharpanam? Should we partake tiffin at night after performing tharpanam? For example, the recent moon eclipse.

Adiyen is a 43-year-old brahamachari who has undergone samashrayanam and is yet to perform bharanyasam. I do not have kith or kin to perform my last rites when I attain Paramapadam. Can I perform shraddha for myself? If so can I do it once or should I do it until the end of my life?

What is Perumal tirtham that is offered after performing Tiruvaradhanam?

Is it the prayigraha patram that is offered for the respective asanam (That is, arghyam, paadyam, etc.), the snanaasana tirtham offered to Perumal? Or is it the snanaasana which is not the thirumanjanam tirtham? What should we do with this tirtham?

If we perform thirumanjanam with milk for Perumal, what should we do with the milk?

In our house as the children have to leave for school and college, the thaligai is prepared quite early. As a result, we prepare separate food for offering during Tiruvaradhanam. Kindly advise how to offer the thaligai during bhojyaasanam.

Upanayanam has been performed for adiyen’s son recently. I have taught him sandhyavandanam. Are there any books on sandhyavandanam mantras that can be used for reference and guidelines on how to do it? We are disciples of Srisannidhi.

Adiyen’s husband attained Paramapadam recently. All the karmas till the varushabdikam (First anniversary ceremonies) are being performed by the son of my brother-in-law (Husband’s brother). Who must perform the shraddha that comes after this? For Adiyen’s question on this, you had asked whether I have a grandson. I have two daughters. I have a grandson through my younger daughter. He is 12 years old and has undergone upanayanam.

Can we use agarbathi (Incense sticks) for our Perumal at home?

Can we draw kolam during Ammavasyai?

Can we do samashrayanam and bharanyasam under different preceptors? If so whom should we consider our Acarya? Whose custom should be followed during festival times?

How many lamps can be lit for Perumal at our home, should it be one or even two lamps?

Can we keep our ancestors’ photos in Perumal’s sanctum?

Should we light two lamps and keep them outside during the entire month of Karitigai?

Should we light up additional lamps apart from regular two lamps lit before the first day before Pancharathra deepam? Is this appropriate as per the scriptures? Annamalai deepam also occurs on the same day. Should we light up many lamps the next day of Kartigai deepam?

In Srivaishnava doctrine, one who has not undergone panchasamskaram is unfit to perform Tiruvaradhanam. Given this, how can one perform Perumal aradhanam without committing any offence until one undergoes panchasamskaram?

What is the method to conduct Sudarshana puja at homes? Happened to know through a discourse that it is beneficial to have a Sudarshana Yantram at home. If so, what metal must it be made of? What is the prescribed method to consecrate the Yantram?

What is the mantra to chant for Chakkarattazhvar? If Sudarshana Yantram is consecrated at home, are there any additional strictures that must be adhered to?

This is a query related to prasadam from a nearby temple at Chromepet. Adiyen hears to upanyasam-s and participating in Kalakshepam-s (Specifically those delivered by Sri Vasudevachar Svami) conducted by GSPK. As a result, has benefited immensely. Adiyen goes to the temple both in the mornings and evenings. The temple has the practice of leaving leftover prasadam (mostly rice-based preparations) outside the temple in the vessels that were used during the offering. The cows of the neighborhood eat directly from these vessels. Is this an appropriate practice? There is a possibility that stray dogs could also make contact with these vessels. Is this an appropriate conduct? It is of no avail even after I have taken this up issue with temple authorities. I am confused about whether to accept that prasadam; adiyen is afraid that accepting the prasadam might be improper conduct and not accepting temple prasadam is sinful. Kindly clarify.

The wife of my grandfather’s younger brother’s grandson has attained Paramapadam. How many days of asaucam for me? Should I perform kuzhi tarpanam? As it is about 20 years since I last met the deceased, kindly advise on the asaucam.

Can a male from Vishvamitra gothram marry a lady from Kausika gothram?

I have heard that on the day of Kartikai deepam, one has to light a smaller version of sokkappanai at home before lighting up other lamps. For the sokkappanai can we use an earthen pot (Agal Vilakku) lamp with oil and use a wick made of thick strands (Gaadaathuni)?

My son’s mother-in-law attained Acharyan Tiruvadi 4 days ago. Can my son sit in the swami sthana during the sapindeekaranam?

Can one go abroad after bharanyasam?

We do not know the ancestral place of my husband. Nor do we know the ancestors’ family Perumal. Is there a means to worship our Kuladeivam? (Due to the grace of Acharya, adiyen has undergone bharanyasam).

Is it right to prostrate on the ground, or pay respects with folded hands to the body of a dead person? Or is it wrong? How to pay respects to a departed person?

It is said that the Owl is the vehicle of Thayar. Is there any basis (Pramanam) for this?

Must we leave all the Tulasi offered to Perumal during Tiruvaradhanam in the Kovil Azhvar? Or can we retain some for distributing as a prasadam for us and our family?

How to dispose of torn and worn Perumal vastram, torn and broken Perumal pictures and idols, and calendars with Perumal photos? I am reluctant to discard them in the garbage bin.

How to dispose of the darbha/kUrcha after amavasyai tarpanam?

Why do the eyes of Utsava murti-s of thayar and Perumal appear as “closed”?

Why is tilakam adorned to the utsava murti of Perumal (Examples – Namperumal, Varadar, Sarangapani, Parthasarathy) instead of Thiruman?

In the processional palanquin of the utsava murti of Perumal and Thayar, what is the rationale behind the figure that looks like a bhootam?

How to consecrate (PratiSTha) Srichurnam and Tulasi garland?

Adiyen has few Srivaishnava friends, and they have the practice of worshipping Vinayaka and celebrating Vinayaka Chaturthi. They do not worship Vinayaka as Vishvaksenar. Is it appropriate to worship Vinayaka, son of Gauri, in our tradition?

A prapanna having undergone bharanyasam, when should that person perform Prayaschitta (atonement) bharanyasam, and how? Is this a must?

Must Kanuppidi be performed only after taking a bath and also in svarupam? In some places, they observe this without taking a bath. Kindly clarify.

While adiyen is in foreign countries, on different occasions, there is a need to perform masa pravesha tharpanam or amavasyai tharpanam. Which place should be (desham) included in the sankalpam-s?

Kindly explain the rationale followed for Kanuppidi. My father-in-law asks my husband to send money to his (father-in-law’s) sisters during Kanuppidi. Must we follow this practice?

Partaking Panchagavyam, cleanses the physical body. If there are any other scientific reasons, kindly explain.

It is said that it is futile to perform any rituals if one does not perform sandhayavandanam and before any ritual, one must perform sandhyavandanam. Given this, how is it possible to perform sandhyavandanam before rituals that are performed at Brahma muhurtham or in the dawn, such Grihapravesham (housewarming)?

Kindly request to provide answers for adiyen’s queries below related to aradhanam, tharpanam, etc.

One of the divine names in the Sri Mahalakshmi Ashtohra Namavali is ‘sri bilva nilayAya namaH’. Vilvam (Bilvam) the sacred tree is associated with Thayar. This being so, why is Vilvam usually offered to Shivaperuman? Why is not offered to Perumal? It is also said that Vilva leaves are offered to Srinivasa Perumal at Thirumala during Dhanur maasam. Why is it offered only during Dhanur maasam?

According to the English calendar, the next day (a day) starts at midnight. Given this, during a Dhanur masa aradhanam that is done before sunrise, what day (E.g. bhAnu vAsara) must be mentioned during sankalpam? Is it based on the day as per the English calendar or the previous day? As the taligai is offered before sunrise, must we recite ‘satyam tvadartEna parishinchAmi’ or ‘rutam tvA satyEna parishinchAmi’?

Which star (nakshatram) is associated with Dhanvantari Perumal? In which tithi or star must we perform aradhanam for Dhanvantari Perumal?

vyatIpAta yogam, one of the 27 yogas, is said to be malefic and is suitable only to perform karmas related to Devas and Pitru-s. As a result, during vyatIpAta yogam period, must any specific Perumal aradhanam/Japam/Dhanam be done?

As per the shloka below, what is the relation between the vyatIpAta yoga kalam and ‘cakra svarUpAya’?

vyatIpAta mahAsatva

sarvapApapraNAshana

sahasrabAhO vishvAtman

gruhANArkyam namOstu tE |

vyatIpAta namstEstu namaste

vishvamangala

vishNucakrasvarUpAya namaste

divyathEjasE ||

In America, this year Makara Ravi came into being at 4.15 PM. Adiyen could not fast until 4.15 PM to perform tharpanam. As a result, performed the tharpanam the morning of the next day before partaking food. In such instances where Makara Ravi’s advent is in the evenings, can one partake food before tharpanam, or must one perform tharpanam before partaking food?

Adiyen is not a Brahmin. Am a disciple of the present Srimad Azhagiya Shingar. Have undergone both samashrayanam and bharanyasam. I live alone. To the best of my abilities, have been observing AchAram and following anusthAnam, perform japam, Perumal aradhanam, etc. for the pleasure of the divine heart of Acharyan and Perumal. While undergoing bharanyasam, Acharyan has assured that at the end of this life that adiyen will attain moksha. I have absolute faith in that. Have a deeper understanding of the importance of the last rites (Charam kainkaryam) from the lives of Maraneri Nambi and Periya Nambi and as a result continue to perform tharpanam, etc. I don’t have children, and my family does not have faith in the shastras. This means that there is no possibility of charama kainkaryam for me. Though I have absolute faith that attainment of Vaikuntham and Divine Feet of Emperuman is assured due to the munificence of Acharya, are there any atonements or AchAra/anusthAnam that need to be performed as an alternative to the charama kainkaryam? Adiyen asks this not to fulfill a shortcoming, asking instead solely to please Perumal and Acharya.

Can Tiruvaradhanam be performed with two Salagrama-s? (That is, by placing each Salagrama in two separate boxes and performing all the Asana-s and performing snAsanam for both individually).

Can Tiruvaradhanam be performed without Sanskrit shloka-s but only with appropriate Azhvar and Desika Prabandham during the respective Asana-s?

Can tirtham from either sarvArtha thOya or arghya vattil be used for grinding sandal wood paste?

When one undergoes samashrayanam under Munitraya tradition and performs bharanyasam under Sri Matam tradition, which tradition that one must follow to celebrate festivals such as Sri Jayanthi, Karthikai Deepam, etc.?

If Dwadasi ends before sunrise, when must paranai be done? It is before sunrise or like the usual Dwadasi paranai?

Can we adorn the utsava murtis (Idols) of Azhvar-s and Acharya-s with colored clothes?

When thirumanjanam is performed at temples, the priest directly pours the tender coconut water from the coconut on Perumal’s tirumeni without transferring the water first to another ceremonial vessel. Is there any reason for this?

Is it mentioned in the Agama shastra that Perumal must be adorned with only one yellow or white cloth during the thirumanjanam?

If the functions and rituals are conducted at home if the priest who conducts the rituals and functions happens to be younger than the kartA, can the kartA prostrate before the priest while offering sambhavana?

Can Kunkumum be offered along with sandal wood paste to Salagrama Perumal during Tiruvaradhanam?

Is recitation of Azhvar-s pasuram-s such as Tiruppavai, Tiruppallandu, etc. (Tiruvaradhana sevakalam), part of Vadakalai tradition?

In the compound/perimeter walls of temples at Tirumala and Tirucchanur, are there any figurines of lions individually or along with Garuda.

What is the difference between the antaryami Perumal and the avesha avatara Perumal? Where and how does Perumal’s avesha avatara take place?

When must a son begin to perform amavasyai and masa pirappu tharpanam-s after ascension to Paramapadam of that person’s father?

A famous upanyasakar says that for those who have only daughters as their offspring (people with no sons), rituals such as masikam and shraddha need not be performed; kindly clarify.

During pitru tharpanam, is taking sesame seeds in the palm first before adding tirtham to it for offering a proper procedure? Or is offering the tirtham already mixed with sesame seeds to bhugnam is the correct procedure?

Balaji is a name for Tiruvenkatamudaiyan Srinivasa Perumal. What is the meaning of that name and what is the reason for that name? Because of this name, a few still say that it is Murugan and Shakti, which is agonizing.

After doing bharasamarpanam, for the benefit of the family can atonements such as griha shanti, sarpa shanti, etc. be performed?

Similar to the kunkuma archana performed for Thayar, can Sahasranama archana for Perumal be done with kunkumam (what else can be used instead of flowers)?

We tear up while reciting Divya Prabandham or Desika Stotram during Tiruvaradhanam or while worshipping Perumal at temples. More specifically, is it right for us to tear up during Tiruvaradhanam? While reciting shloka, words are choked while tears run down. Are we committing any offense?

If dashasu happens to be on the day of Ekadasi, can we partake uppuma first, witness Bali, and partake sojji?

Adiyen’s periyamma has attained Acharya Tiruvadi. On sapindeekaranam, can her brothers, sisters, and those who are from the next generation partake at the place of ceremony?

What are Ashtaka and Anvashtaka? Why do we perform tarpanam on these days?

To move into a rental house, can we observe the milk boiling ritual on an auspicious day in the month of Panguni?

Why must one not partake any food items associated with Bananas, Plantain fruit, etc. on Dwadasi?

Adiyen performs maasa pirappu and amavasyai tarpanam-s along with the annual shraddha of my father without fail. I also perform Ashtaka and Anvashtaka. But I failed to perform Ashtaka and Anvashtaka during the Shobhakrut Maci maasam. What should I do?

Why is Perumal not worshipped with akshatai? Is this prohibited only for Salagrama worship or is it also applicable for worship of idols and Dwaraka Shila?

The incarnation of Narasimha happened in the evening on a Chaturdasi day. Mahapradosham is evening period of Trayodasi. Why then do we specifically worship Lakshmi Narasimhan during Mahapradosham period? Why do some say that during Mahaprodasham except SriNarasimha and SriRama, other Perumal-s such as Ranganathan must not be worshipped?

What is the relation between SriRama and Mahapradosham period?

Why do we offer Panagam for SriNarasimha?

What is the reason to worship Perumal as Sri Varahanarasimhan only at Ahobilam and Simhachalam?

Can we carry our Salagrama Perumal by train along with us? If yes, what is the procedure? What precautions must be taken?

How to practice religious penances such as Chatrayam, Prajapatyam, etc, which are prescribed by the dharma shastras? Are the practical possibilities for present times?

As Tantondrimalai Perumal is our family deity, can adiyen go to Tirumalai?

As per the panchangam, at times for a given day, a nakshatra or tithi exists only for a new nazhigai-s; (Example – Swati 28.01 or Dwadasi 15.00). Can we consider, that nakshatra or tithi is for the same duration (nazhigai-s) from sunrise, at all locations? For instance, at location A, sunrise is at 6.30 AM and at location B it is at 7 AM; if Dwadasi is for 10 nazhigai-s, can we consider that Dwadasi exists till 10.30 AM at location A, and it exists till 11 AM at location B?

As per the panchangam, Ekadasi tithi does not exist on March 21st. On that day, though Dwadasi exists for 60 nazhigai-s, why then did we observe Ekadasi on 21st instead of the previous day?

When one renders services at the temple, are there any allowances for us to practice our daily anushtanam-s beyond the stipulated time or for a shorter duration, as per our scriptures? For example, offering kAlAtIta arghyam or performing upasthanam before the stipulated time.

If a prapanna does not perform nitya (daily) and naimittika (occasional) karma-s after prapatti, will moksha be denied?

If my mother-in-law shraddha happens to fall on Dwadasi, can we do paranai? Paranai time is in the morning and the time for shraddha is after 11 AM; how to observe paranai?

Can one move to another rental house during the month of Chittirai?

Can we go to worship Perumal at a Divya Desam on the hill within one year of a family member attaining Paramapadam? Adiyen’ s paternal grandparents (both 90+ years old) have attained Paramapadam and is less than a year since their departure. Since adiyen needs to travel overseas, can adiyen worship Athigiri Varadan?

Adiyen is 57 years old and adiyen’ s husband is 60 years old. Both of them have undergone samashrayanam and will be undergoing bharanyasam. We have one daughter. She married one from the Vishvakarma clan and they have a son. Who will perform the last rites of parents like us whose only daughter married into a different caste? What are the rules regarding this?

Is Vaishvadeva aradhanam performed at temples when thaliagi is offered to Perumal?

In the goshtis that take place inside and outside temples, can all Srivaishnava-s participate? Who all are allowed to participate in such goshtis?

As per the Jyotisha Shastram, the day on which Rohini nakshatra is associated with Krishna paksha Ashtrami is called Jayanthi day. Hence, Jayanthi means it refers to Sri Jayanthi only. If so, are there any specific names for the days on which Perumal incarnated as Varaha, Narasimha, etc.? Why do we call even those days Jayanthi?

I heard in a discourse that we must not sleep on earth to ensure that our yagyopaveetam (sacred thread) does not touch the floor; but when we prostrated to worship Perumal or before our elders, yagyopaveetam comes into contact with the floor; what should we do?

Can we teach the sandhyavandanam mantras with intonations (Svaram) to young boys who have not yet undergone upanayanam? Is there any sankalpam for performing sandhyavandanam?

Can women cleaners clean the Baliharanam in temples after the offering of bali?

At temples, during Brahmotsavam, before the Utsava Perumal goes out in procession, can women offer harathi outside the sanctum?

Followed by a Gaya sraddham, having renounced Kothavarangai at Akshaya Vatam, can we partake any Kadamba prasadam at Mutt or Ashramam that includes Kothavaranga? What must we do if we partake this not knowing of its inclusion?

Adiyen performed Bharasamarpanam two years ago, but till now could not avoid partaking prohibited food items and does not perform daily sandhyavandhanam as ordained. Are there any atonements to rectify these follies that are committed knowingly? Will this hinder the attainment of my salvation?

While sharanagati shall fructify and it can be done for any want; what if a sharanagati done by an Akincanyan for worldly benefits with absolute faith does not bear results? Is it because of one’s karma? Kindly clarify.

When one’s uncle from his paternal side ascends to parama-padam, should we avoid drawing kolams and celebrating festivals for a year?

What is Pathu? What are all-inclusive in Pathu? What about savories, pickles, and pulikachal?

What is the purport behind kaDavan, muDavan muzhukku, is there a story associated with it?

Can one who is invited (Nimantrana) for a maasyam or shraddham accept Perumal and Paduka tirtha in the morning after Tiruvaradhanam at their house or in a nearby temple?

What is the difference between kandarulapannudal and amsai during bhojyasanam? What is the procedure for doing it?

One of our relatives chants the Gayatri mantra while doing regular walks, is this acceptable?

My husband attained Parama padam recently; during his first annual rites can my sister-in-law’s husband who is elder to him accept pitru sesham and can my elder brother and his wife who are elder to him partake food? What are the rules regarding this?

Adiyen has two daughters aged seven and four, Are they allowed to perform Salagrama worship?

If a Shraddha falls on amavasyai, should tharpanam precede shraddha or after shraddha?

Should one do parehani tharpanam the next day before sunrise? Many perform it after shraddha, which is the correct way?

If Seemanthonnayanam is an important ritual, then why is it done only for the first pregnancy?

Few doubts about lighting lamps to Emperuman:

It is traditional to light up lamps for Thirumalaiappan during Purattasi Saturdays; can it be done for my favorite Emperuman Sriranganathan? Or must we light a lamp for Him during Panguni Revati or Vaikuntha Ekadasi? Can we light flour lamps for Thayar on Adi Fridays?

What is the greatness of lighting Kumbha/Gata lamps? Can we light lamps by filling the Kumbha with water on special days instead of agal lamps?

After offering layered lamps by the men folk, can we extinguish the flame to prevent the blackening of lamps?

Do we have the tradition of lighting Akanda Deepam on special days like it is done in North India? If so, what is the procedure?

Had learned through previous Sudarsanam issues that Sharanagati means surrendering oneself to Emperuman and one need not worry about any burdens from then. If one continues to worry even after sharanagati, does it imply

One has not surrendered the soul properly? Should he surrender again?

Even if we have not surrendered our burdens properly, it is only our Acharya who surrenders on our behalf appropriately; and by implication, there are no shortcomings in our Sharanagati; How do we understand this?

When one who has rendered prapatti (a prapanna) commits sinful acts such as stealing, cheating, treachery, etc., will that person be affected by the aftereffects of those sinful acts? Will that person’s sharanagati fructify?

Please clarify Srivaishnavam’s views or perspectives on organ donations.

What are the rules and regulations to select flowers for Perumal Tiruvaradhanam? If fragrance is an important requirement, the Kanakambaram flower has no fragrance; can we offer Kanakambaram for Emperuman?

During the thirumanjanam for a temple Perumal, are only the Sikshavalli, Anandavalli and Bhriguvalli recited? Can Narayana valli also be recited? Kindly clarify.

Usually what is the count of japam mantra one must chant? For teertha japam-s, what is the count?

After the ascension of the father-in-law to Paramapadam, during the first one-year period, can the wife or daughter-in-law take an oil bath? Is it appropriate to offer Sumangali women Thambulam on the evening of the father-in-law’s maasikam? Is this a practice?

Will a young girl/maiden attain salvation as she has performed sharanagati unto the divine feet of an Acharya and will a Vaishnava woman who has done prappatti attain moksham even if she gets married into a Shaiva family?

Please explain in detail why are sthalibhagam, sesha homam performed during vivaham (weddings)?

Svami, by birth I am a saivaite. At present I am practicing Srivaishnava tradition. Recently at the ISKCON temple in the city I reside at, I bought the 1st skandam of Srimad Bhagavatam. When I enquired a few young Srivaishnava-s, they said that in the ISKCON version of Bhagavatam erroneous translations and explanations are found and they said that a Srivaishnava must not read their texts. As ISKCON follows Vaishnava tradition, can Srivaishnava-s read their books? I currently living in a foreign country and books on Sri Ramanuja philosophy is not available. So, kindly clarify whether is it wrong to read books based on ISKCON tradition though they differ slightly from our tradition.

Can we make an impression of Vadakalai Thiruman Srichurnam in U shape?

I am currently wearing Thiruman along with orange-colored Srichurnam. Is it ok to wear orange-colored Srichurnam or must I wear yellow or red colored Srichurnam?

Kindly explain the difference between Thiruman and Gopichandanam.

A Few Srivaishnava upanyasaka-s say one must wear only the Thiruman that is obtained from divine places of Vishnu such as Srirangam, Melkote, etc. But I don’t know from the Thiruman that I wear comes from. Is it ok to wear the Urdhva Pundram without being aware of its origin? If its origin is not Srirangam or Melkote, must I stop or continue?

What type of coin should devotees collect that was offered in Sudarshana homam as per our tradition? (We are collecting rupee coins now)

Few doubts

Will the prapatti fructify if a prapanna has an association with demi-gods until the last breath?

If a prappanna surrenders to Emperuman during the last stage by dissociating from demi-gods, will Emperuman accept and grant moksham even when prayachista prapatti is not performed? Or will Perumal make the prappanna undergo the relevant punishment and then grant moksham?

How many times can one do atonement prapatti (Prayaschitta prapatti)? Should it be done only once like prapatti? Does it contain the Dwaya mantra?

Adiyen always has this thought that adiyen’s prapatti will not bear fruits if adiyen were to commit transgressions. Have heard several great wise and noble men saying that it is not so and prapatti will certainly yield fruits. Kindly clarify whether adiyen’s understanding is correct. Aidyen has the constant fear that aidyen’s prapatti will not fructify should adiyen commit offenses – even though aidyen is aware that unintentional sins do not count towards a prapanna’s sins; and performance of prayashcitta prapatti will remove intentional offenses or that adiyen would require a mild form punishment before moksham is granted. Is this fear of adiyen due to the prArabdha karmA? Kindly advise what needs to be done to remove such fears.

In the Ani Sudarshana issue it was mentioned that a disciple will have one day theetu if the Acharyan ascends to Paramapadam; is this applicable to the Acarya-s who impart shloka-s and Prabandham-s?

Can Brahmacaris conduct Ayushya homam (for self), homam-s in shraddha or for samashrayanam?

Adiyen’s father attained Acharyan Tiruvadi on 13.08.2011 on shukla paksha tithi; please clarify on which date should we conduct the annual oblation this year.

When we say scriptures, do we follow the scriptural rules based on Manu Smruti or Apastambasutram?

Can we add honey during Salagrama aradhanam; can we partake in the madhuparka?

If we could not perform Avani Avittam on the prescribed day due to circumstances, can it be performed on another day?

Can Srivaishnava-s wear rings (on hands) studded/decorated with gemstones?

Adiyen is a Telugu Brahmin. Only recently have started traveling on the path of Bhagavad Ramanujacharya sampradayam. Adiyen desires to live as a Srivaishnava. To the best of adiyen’s abilities, follow Sirvaishnava Ahara Niyamam (dietary stipulations followed by Srivaishnavas). But in the days to come, have to undertake frequent travel to other countries. Vegetarian food is available in those countries, but do not know whether vegetarian food does not include prohibited substances such as onions and garlic. Kindly advise what to do in such instances.

Adiyen lives in the US and always adorns Thirumannkappu even while going out; some ask what Thirumannkappu is; how do I explain it to them?

Some ask whether I belong to ISKCON looking at my Thirumannkappu; how to explain that adiyen is a Srivaishnava and the difference between us and them?

Should the followers of Munitraya sampradayam observe fast during Srijayanthi, Sriramanavami, Sri Narasimha jayanthi and partake food the next day like dwadasi paranai that is cooking food without tamarind and partaking agathi keerai, nellikai and sunadakkai?

Can we make millets upma instead of rice upma during Ekadasi?

How many days does a disciple observe theetu when an Acharya attains Paramapadam?

Few doubts

Having consulted the family priest, the eldest son-in-law performed final rites as the deceased does not have a son on their own, though they have a grandson; yet he could not perform the rites as he is at school.

Will there be an annual ceremony for parents who have only daughters? After my father’s demise, we accept kaipul (darbha grass) from my mother and perform the annual ceremony; what is the procedure after the demise of my mother?

It is said that the sins and virtues of a grandfather pass on to the next generation; but how can the grandfather be punished for his wrongs when he is not alive? It is hard for the sons and grandsons to undergo punishments for wrongdoings.

It is fate that one has to be born to a particular parent; similarly is it fate that one gets married to a particular person or is it a relation that continues from the past?

How can we explain panchasamaskaram in simple terms? Can we say it is a ritual of Srivaishnava-s?

Adiyen’s sambandhi belongs to Thenkalai sect and they are svayamacharya-s; but, they have not performed panchasamskaram; adiyen’s daughter, son in law and grandchildren are desirous of performing it but the elders of their household prohibit them. How to make them understand?

Is it appropriate to prevent others from becoming a Srivaishnava?

They refuse to acknowledge that Prapatti is the means to attain Emperuman; can adiyen request my preceptor to make them perform prapatti without undergoing panchasamskaram?

In the Thenkalai tradition, do they perform also prapatti along with panchasamaskaram?

Please explain what to follow if a shraddha occurs during Dwadasi?

Can we cook vegetables that were cut the previous day or before taking a bath ad offer it to Emperuman?

Normally it is stated after eating, a bit of food should be left on the leaf; should we who are not bhogtas leave some food even on shraddha day?

What are the rules and sankalpam to be observed while taking bath? Does taking bath include head bath also?

During Amavasyai, if the food is not ready for Perumal Tiruvaradhanam, can we perform Pitru tharpanam and then proceed to do Tiruvaradhanam?

Can we place the Sudarshana yantram given by the temple at home’s sanctum of Perumal?

Are men considered impure (theetu/vizhuppu) until they take a bath and do pratha sandhya?

Can we adorn Thirumankappu on the forehead while observing ten day theetu for the deceased?

Can we do Gayathri and Sandhyavandhanam during that time?

Why should we not touch ulpathiram (vessels used for Perumal) and clothes during that period?

It is mandated that a brahmachari must start learning the Vedas as soon as his upanayanam is performed. Kindly explain the importance of why a brahmachari must learn Nyaayam, Meemaamsaa, Vyaakaranam, Vishishtadvaita principles, etc. Kindly also explain why one must learn the scriptures. In our sampradayam, can a girl child learn scriptures?

Swami Desikan is said to be the incarnation of Gantai, the divine bell. Can we use the divine bell during padhukaradhanam of successive Acharyas (after Swami Desikan)?

Have heard that the disciples of Sri Sannidhi will not chant Gayatri avahana mantra (mantra to invoke Gayatri Devi) during sandhyavandanam. Is there any specific reason for this?

Can prapanna-s recite Srirama Charitamaanas?

Adiyen, there are red and yellow coloured Srichoornams. Can men adorn red Srichoornam after undergoing Bharanyasam?

What type of flowers can be offered to Perumal? Are there any specific details on this?

Can lamps be lit using Kapok cotton wick (Ilavam panju)?

During Amavasai (new moon) and masa pirappu (beginning of a new month), is tharpanam performed before or after Tiruaradhanam?

Can one perform sandhyavandanam during asauca (inauspicious) periods?

Adiyen had already undergone Bharanyasam at a younger age. Can adiyen perform it again?

Should we wash hands after partaking Perumal teertham and Sripadha teertham as the hand could be considered tainted?

What is Acaram and what is Anushtanam? Kindly clarify them.

The sins we beget during morning and night get destroyed during the morning and evening sandhyavandanams, respectively. Swami Desikan had stated in Aparadha Parihaara adhikaaram of Srimad Rahasyatrayasaaram that atonements are for the sins that we commit intentionally. Please explain this.

Any action is done only by the grace of Bhagavan. Is Bhagavan a hidden reason for all our virtuous and sinful deeds? Please clarify.

It is stated that balance virtues and sins of a Prapanna are distributed to others by Perumal before one crosses the holy Viraja. In that case, how do the sins done unintentionally get removed? If another sentient being accrued the virtues of a Prapanna, will this cause delay in attaining Perumal?

If everything happens due to fate or karma, is intelligence required?

How do we differentiate between being egoistic and having self-respect?

Adiyen, Sriman Narayana! Does our custom consider other demigods like Iyappan, Thukkachi as family deities (Kula Daivam)?

What is the difference between Goloka and Sri Vaikuntham?

Can we celebrate festivals like Deepavali and prepare festive food if it occurs during Sankramanam (chitra and vishu) and Amavasai (new moon) periods? Requesting clarification from tharpanam and family perspectives.

Can Srivaishnavas recite Narayaneeyam?

How to compare our anushtanam with science? For example, as per scriptures, food should not be consumed during an eclipse while westerners do not follow any such practices. As we are unable to provide logical reasons, we fear that children would move away from our tradition.

Please explain what Koil Thiruaradhanam is

How to continue Nitya-Aradhana for Salagrama deity when one travels overseas? Can we carry the deities while travelling abroad?

Please clarify the basics of Visishtadwaita philosophy.

Swami adiyen is not a Brahmin, what are the Acaram and Anushtanam that adiyen must follow?

What is the meaning and importance of this tradition?

In 106 Divyadesam can we see the Thirupiridhy? Where is it located? I think Joshi mutt and Thirupiridhy are different. Can you explain?

When a soul attains the lowest forms of birth such as an animal, plant, etc. as a result of sinful deeds in the past, how can that soul uplift itself through virtuous deeds? If we consider the act of a plant giving itself to be eaten as a virtuous deed, what virtuous deeds can be attributed to animals?

Bharatam is known as Karma Bhumi. To eradicate the effects of karma, people visit holy places, taking a dip in the sacred rivers, provide offerings and perform penance. What about America and Europe as they are known as Bhoga Bhumi (place of enjoyment)?

What are the daily ritualistic duties (nitya karmaanusthaanam) in Sri Vaishnava tradition? And what are they?

My father passed away due to Corona, as adiyen was also suffering from Corona, could not perform any last rites. My elder brother did all the thirteen-day rites. After a month, under the guidance of our spiritual advisor performed tharpanam for ten days but it still worries me that I did not perform the final rites. Are there any atonements for this?

Apart from oblation day, new moon, and days on which tharpanam is performed, do we need to feed cooked rice to crows?

Ahobila Mutt’s book on Thiruaradhanam mentions that only after performing Sandhyavandanam, one should proceed to do Thiruaradhanam. Does this include the dawn (prAta) and noon (mAdhyAnika) sandhyavandanams or only prAta sandhyavandanam?

What is the meaning behind being in Svarupam at least during Thiruaradhanam and Kalakshepam? Please state its importance.

Tharpanam is usually performed for two groups of ancestors. My doubt is related to when a sumangali attains AcAryan Tiruvadi – in such case, her son performs pratyAptika shrAddham only and does not perform tharpanam on other occasions amavasai, etc. as the husband/father is still alive. The husband/father performs tharpanam only for his pitru and mAtru vargams (groups). The departed soul of the sumangali, though it has joined her varga during sabindikarana, is that soul left out while performing tharpana? What is its situation until the time the husband attains the ParamaPadam? Pray to the elders to clarify this.

During Thiruaradhanam can we perfrom Thirumanjanam to the silver satari along with Salagrama Perumal?

What are the Acara Anushtanams that are to be followed specifically by Sri Vaishnavas?

Should Parehanee tharpanam be performed the next day after performing a shrAddham? If so, is it done before or after a bath? Must one avoid partaking rice the night of parehanee tharpanam? Pray clarify what other restrictions must be observed.

What are the compulsory daily rituals that our ancient preceptors had insisted on?

Are there any slokas to control emotions and remove fear?

Describe the greatness of Sravana Vratam? How to observe the vratam?

It is said that an oil bath is taken only during sunrise. Is this applicable to women also?

If Dwadasi occurs on Fridays, can one eat gooseberry? Are there any regulations that stipulate when gooseberries can be consumed?

I heard during a discourse that Sita performed sandhyavandanam and learned the Vedas. If women were allowed to do this in the other yuga-s, why did it not continue in the Kaliyuga? Pray clarify what put stop to this practice?

Why is there a difference of opinion between vadakalai and thenkalai sects of Sri Vaishnavam? Did these exist from the times of Jagadacharya Sri Ramanuja?

What is Hiranya Srardham? What is the meaning of Hiranyam?

What is the greatness of charity that is done while conducting pitru karyam? What is the difference between this charity and other charities?

What are the rituals to be done during an eclipse?

How to lead a balanced life that conforms to the ordains of the scriptures and also that overcomes the pressures from family, colleagues, etc., with today’s materialistic lifestyle?

Is Sudarsanam an online class? What does it clarify?

Why do we offer betel leaf (Vetrilai) garland to Lord Hanuman? Are there any references about this in Valmiki or Kamba Ramanyams, or Azhvar pasurams?

What and who are Srivaishanavas?

What is Narasimha Avarana pooja?

Does our sampradayam accept offering food to crow after performing Thiruaradhanam and before we partake food?

What are vegetables and fruits that are to be avoided in sattvic food?

A girl’s father has performed upanayanam for his grandchild by considering him as his son. When his sons could not perform pitru karyam for him, can the daughter or his grandson perform the obsequies?

Should the slokas be recited aloud or mentally in silence during Perumal Thiruaradhanam?

Both Vadakalai and Thenkalai are followers of Visishtadvaitam and what could be the major difference between them? What sub sect did Swami Ramanujar follow?

Did the first Jeeyar Sri Adivansatagopa Yatindra Maha Desikan of Ahobila Mutt follow Sri Vedanta Desikan Sampradayam during His ascetic tenure? If so, did he follow the same in his purvashrama? Please forgive if it is an inappropriate question.

Some preceptors of Ahobila Mutt are reverentially addressed as ‘Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Divya Paduka Sevaka’. But some of our Acarya-s in the lineage are addressed as Srimate, Sriman, and Sri. Please explain the significance.

Adiyen’s grandmother’s shraddha day falls on Ekadasi. As adiyen observes Ekadasi fasting, should adiyen partake shraddha prasadham or observe fasting? Kindly clarify.

Can we worship Mahans’ photos along with their respective spouses or should we worship them separately?

How to partake Perumal Tirtham after performing Thiruaradhanam at home? Are there any specific rules?

Which dal should be used during masa pirappu and tharpanam days? Is it toor dal or moong dal?

Adiyen had received Mahalakshmi, Santhana Krishna, Nagar deities made of silver as a bridal gift; adiyen’s husband offers flowers and food to the deities during weekdays and on weekends he does Thiruaradhanam. Is this right or are we committing any offence? Moreover, can adiyen clean silver figurines as per the prescribed anushtanam for ladies?

Absolute faith is prescribed as one of the components of Sarangathi. In that case can one perform saranagathi by holding absolute faith on Perumal’s causeless mercy alone and forgo the rest?

Can we partake turkey berry and goose berry (sundaikai and nellikai) if Dwadashi occurs on Tuesdays or Fridays?

Facing which direction should one perform tharpanam? Is it East or South? Some books have stated it to be south. Please clarify.

Can we consecrate Sudarshana yantra at home or at temples? If so, what are the procedures?

I humbly request for a detailed video presentation on Anushtanam.

Is sandhavandanam a part of daily rituals for Srivaishnavas? Apart from kalakshepam and upanyasam what are the other strotra patam and books that we should know to learn about our tradition?

If one gives birth to a baby girl, who should observe 3 days and 10 days taint (theetu) respectively? Can that person light lamp in that household

Can we celebrate festivals as adiyen’s father in law’s cousin brother had passed away?

When must one perform tharpanam during sankramana punya kalam? Must this be done during afternoon (aparAhNa) like amavasai? Or must this be done when Sun enters a particular rAsi?

For example: In this year’s Srirangam Vakhya panchangam, Dakshinayana punya kalam is said to occur at kata ravi 45-13 nazhiagais. If so, this means the time is 17 July 12 AM.

Can a prapanna worship Pancamuka Anjaneya and partake his prasadham? Is Anjaneya the next Brahma as per Srimad Bhagavatam? Please clarify.

How did Sudarshana chakra appear in Emperuman’s divine hand?

Swami Desikan has mentioned about Puri Kshetram in Hamsa Sandesham. Is Puri an abhimana sthalam? Is there any connection between our sampradayam and Puri kshetra?

Andal has sung ‘sendru nam sevithal’. But due to the current situation, the parayanam in our temple has been halted. Will doing parayanam and aradhanam at home acquire the fruits of rendering kainkaryam at the temple?

Some of my relatives are not interested to know about panca-samaskaram, bharanayasam and its greatness. Can adiyen pray mentally for them to Acaryan?

Has Bhagavad Ramanujar mentioned about Bharanyasam? Is Bhara samarpanam only for those who are from Vadakalai sampradayam?

Can the followers of Vadakalai sampradayam recite 3000 Padi Guruparampara prabavam of Brahmatantra Jeeyar? What is the difference between this and 6000 Padi Guruparampara prabhavam?

Prapannas having surrendered unto Perumal for moksham, are not supposed to worship demi-gods for remedy from pitru dosham, stree sapam (curse) and naga dosham. Are there any Vedanta Desika slokas that can be recited as a remedy from such doshams? Adiyen had listened to Daya Shatakam upanyasam for pitru dosham.

It is very difficult to explain about prescribed and proper conducts (Acaram) to the young generation of today as they question each and every aspect of the tradition, unlike those of us who followed the ordains of elders. How to make the youngsters follow the Acara-anushtanam and make them follow our tradition?

Adiyen’s son a Prappana, attained Acarya’s divine feet two years ago while diving in Thirumala waterfalls. I spend most of my day in spiritual matters but still not able to bear the loss of my son. Elders are advising that my thoughts would trouble the liberated soul. Whenever I listen to Dayashatakam upanyasam and about the waterfalls I could not control my feelings. Please clarify whether the liberated soul would be affected because of my feelings.

During this pandemic time, for shraddham we are forced to call upon our relatives to participate rituals related to pitru sthanam (This is largely done to avoid inviting strangers). For such relatives who are invited to take various roles/place (in place of the ptirus), how many Gayatri mantra japam must be done for the respective sthanam?

Should we change the lamp wick every day in the morning? Can we use the same wick in the evening that was used in the morning?

Kalakshepams and sandhai classes are not conducted mostly during new moon and the next day of new moon. During such days what kind of pooja can be done at home? What are the slokams to be chanted?

As our children have settled abroad, we are compelled to travel overseas. When we return home, we atone by bathing in holy rivers and partake panchagavyam. While we do atonement many times, will such atonements remove our sins as we have transgressed against the ordain of scriptures? Why travelling overseas is wrong fundamentally? Please clarify.

Can a Prapanna recite Swami Desikan’s slokams for achieving material benefits like jobs, marriage etc.?

Adiyen, how many Salagrama Perumal can be arranged in a box? Should it be in odd or even numbers?

Can we use single wick for lighting lamp?

What is Vaishvadevam? What is Anuyagam? Who should perform them and what are their importance?

What is the food that are to be totally avoided?

If bachelors (Brahmachari) are not impacted by any asaucam (taint), can they perform Perumal Aradhanam?

What is the difference between Bodhayna Amavasai and Amavasai? Whys is amavasai tharpanam not performed on the day of Bodhayana amavasai? Kindly clarify why this differs during certain months.

Can a lonely widow whose son is abroad, can donate a cow (Godhanam) on her own? What do the scriptures say?

Adiyen belongs to Vadakalai tradition and has been adorning red-colored Sirchoornam from a young age, based on the practice of my father. My father changed to yellow Srichoornam for some time now. My father said only the Vaidikas wear yellow Srichoornam. Kindly advise the reason why the elders adorn red and yellow colored Sirchoornam. Have noticed the Srichoornam that adorns Vedanta Deskian in the picture is red-colored. Can red Srichoornam be used while adoring twelve Thiruman?

Adiyen is 36 years old and trying to follow Ahara niyamam. Work from the home situation has helped to avoid eating out. Due to the grace of Acharayan, it appears that adiyen is gradually gaining knowledge. Due to adiyen’s limited knowledge, unable to comprehend Ahara Niyama, but aidyen is trying. It will be a great help if elders could advise which vegetables can be partaken. Listing the vegetables that adiyen is aware of:

Green leaves (except drumstick leaves and siru keerai).

Okra (Ladies’ Fingers)

Chayote (Chow Chow)

Elephant Yam (Karunai)

Yam (Senai)

Colocasia root (Seppankizhangu)

Plantain

Pumpkin

Yellow Pumpkin

Cucumber

Tomato

If there are any discourses on Ahara Niyama, kindly advise. Pray to forgive aidyen’s ignorance and if aidyen said anything improper.

As a continuation of the previous query, rice cooked from parboiled rice must not be offered to Perumal. Is it proper to use parboiled rice for Idlies?

Though adiyen got married into a Smartha family, due to Perumal’s grace adiyen and my daughters were blessed to do Bharanyasam. What is the tradition (the type of attire etc.) that one should adhere to during Shraddham and Amavasai? (this kind of question was raised previously as well)

Kindly explain about Prayascitta Prapatti and how to perform it?

Can we use milk and water for Salagrama thirumanjanam or can we just use pure water alone? Please advise.

How should the food be offered to Salagrama deities during aradhanam? Should the deities be ceremonially brought to the kitchen for offering food as the kitchen and Perumal sanctum are separate?

Some say that during amavasai tharpanam, if the mother is still alive, it is enough to perform tharpanam for great grandmother and grandmother on the mother side. Is this appropriate? Please clarify.

How to observe Ekadasi vratam and how to complete the vratam during Dwadasi?

If the men of the household are not interested in performing Aradhana for Perumal and Salagrama deities, what kind of worship can women do? Are they allowed to perform Aradhana and Harathi for Perumal? Adiyen is only now interested to know more about Srivaishanava tradition.

(This question is raised by one of my relative, a disciple of Parakala Mutt)

In our house when we light up lamp in the evening, we close the back door and open the entrance door. Which door should be opened first during mornings? Should the entrance door be kept open during Thiruvaradhanam? Can one perform Prathasandhya without bathing? Please clarify.

When elderly relatives attain Paramapadam and while we get to see their physical body, shall we chant Prabandham or Ramanama kirtans and when shall we do so?

What is the equivalent Srivaishnava term for spluttering (Thalitthal)?

Can lamps be lit at the entrance every day or should it be lit only during the months like Karthigai, Margazhi?

During the Brahmamuhurta period can lamps be lit at Perumal sanctum and Thulasi maadam?

Our elders assert that salvation is assured for those who perform Prapatti; they have also advised that children are also Bhagavatas (devotees) and they should not be hurt with deeds or words. Instead of being virtuous and obeying Acarya’s words, few of them behave otherwise by belittling the younger generation and taunting them with harsh words. Will they still get salvation? Such behavior causes slight disbelief in Prapatti. Kindly show the right way.

Adiyen’s husband attained Acaryan thiruvadi three months ago, should adiyen’s sons perform Ammavasai tharpanam from now or after one year?

Can one learn Thiruvaimohzi through Sandhai? Are Samasrayanam and Bharanyasam a must to learn them? Can it be taught to children? Are there any rules for this?

Salutations Swami. Can one wear a new dress during Vrata, Pitrukarya, Amavasai, and Masa pirappu days?

Can one half of the coconut be used for preparing the offerings for Perumal on one and can the other half of the coconut be used subsequently in cooking the next day and can it be offered to Perumal?

Sri Vangipuratthu Nambi in his Virodhi Pariharam Grantham says that when one thinks that “Piratti’s Saraveshvaratvam” and “Brahmikka lakshanamana karanatvam” , that thought itself will act as an obstacle for moksham. If so, are Vishnu and Piratti are different souls (Atamas)? Or are they two forms/incarnations of a single Atama? Similarly, are Sridevi, Bhumidevi and Neeladevi are three different souls or incarnations of a single atma? Pray kindly explain, adiyen Ramanuja dasan. [Here is Vangipurathu Nambi’s Virodhi Pariharangal in Telugu script: https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.396199 And here is the specific page: https://imgur.com/a/c0NUyY1″]

As Srivaishnavas must not worship other demi-gods, why do we worship Hanuman? Is he a Prapanna or Bhakti yogi or a Mumukshu?

In which text is the Narasimha Charama slokam “sathyam bravi:mi manuja:ha svayamu:rdhva bahuhu yo: ma:m muku:nda narasimha jana:rdane:thi | ji:van japathynu dinam marane: runi:va pa:sha:na ka:shta sadru:sa:ya dada:mi mukthim” is included?

Does Ahobila Mutt alone have the tradition of preaching Srimantra mantropadesam during Pancasamaskaram? Or is it practiced by other mutts of Vadakalai tradition?

Apart from Kshatrabhandu, Muchukundan, Vibhishana, Katvanga, are there others who have performed Prapatti on their own volition (svanishtai)? Is there any reference on this in Ithihasas and Puranas?

If the Vedas are said to be of divine origin (did not come from any ordinary being), why does the Rig Veda say this “asmA idu stomaM saM hinomi rathaM na taSTeva” – “Similar to how a carpenter constructs a chariot, so have I created this for him”? How to interpret this?

Is America Jambudvipa or Kraunchadvipa? What dvipa to use during sankalpam?

Adiyen has undergone both Samasrayanam and Bharanyasam; should adiyen also apply twelve thiruman like men?

There is Pillaiyar temple near adiyen’s home which adiyen use to frequent, we also celebrate pillaiyar Chaturthi; should adiyen not visit that temple after Bharanayasam? Please clarify

It was stated in the previous issue of Sudarshanam that women should not chant Vishnu Sahasranama, are there any scriptural proof or any reference by our ancient preceptors?

Adiyen a Srivaishnava who does not belong to the Brahmin community; our family deity is Thiruvallur Veeragahava Perumal. My grandfather did his embossing of mudras at Sriperumbudur and he lived a life of a Srivaishanava in his village. The tradition stopped with him. We only visit the temple during festival time and became unaware of our tradition. Adiyen desires to lead a life of a Srivaishnava like my grandfather, but we do not know who our Acharyan is and how to proceed in following the Srivaishnava way of life. Should adiyen also do sandhyavandanam and other rituals as well?

Though the likes of Indran and Ahalya have committed unpardonable transgressions, why does Perumal favours Indra by having him in the position of Devendra?

What are the topics under Grantha Chatustya kalakshepam that women are allowed to attend?

Can women pluck Thulasi? During Nammazhvar moksha utsavam in our temple, Andal goshti plucks Thulasi. Is this appropriate?

Can one do tharpanam during full moon (Purnima)? During pitru paksham should one do tharpanam first or should one do thiruvaradhanam first?

What is the connection between rice and Ekadasi? Why should we avoid whole rice and if need be, consume items made of broken rice?

Adiyen first submit adiyen’s gratitude for responding to adiyen’s query (related to tharpanam and a Jeevan that has attained Paramapadam as a Sumangali) in the previous issue of Sudarshanam. Still, aidyen is not able to comprehend. While performing the karmas, we do it to satisfy Bhavagan (Bhagavad preethyartham) and have no doubt the benefits of the karmas are offered to him. During tharpanam we mention the names of mother, mother’s father, mother’s paternal grandfather and great-grandfather (mAtA, mAtAmaha, mAtru pitAmaha, matru prapitAmaha) and offer arghyam (offering of ceremonial water). But, until the son of the soul that had attained Parampadam s a Sumangali is qualified to perform tharpanam, what is the status of the soul that has attained Paramapadam?

When should we chant the Ashtakshara mantra?

What is an omen?

Should we not light lamps made up of rice flour(mavilakku) during Purattasi Brahmotsvam at Thirumala until the Dwajarohanam?

Can one, who has performed Bharanyasam, offer milk to termite mounds (where snakes live) on Adi and Thai Fridays at any Perumal temple or Tiruvahindirapuram Sesha kinaru (well)?

It is said that after one has performed Prapatti, one must not perform archana at temples in one’s name, lineage (gothram) and star (nakshatram); kindly clarify.

Can women go to temple in the morning on the day of their parents’ shraddham?

Can women partake milk, curd and butter during Ekadasi?

Approximately 150 years ago, my ancestors migrated from Kanchipuram to Salem. My great-grandfather is Kotikannikadhanam Thathacaryar. As my grandfather and father were not made aware of who our kula daivam was, pray clarify.

Adiyen has two Salagrama deities at my home in America donated by my father and father-in-law. It is considered inauspicious to have two deities as one, four or more deities are to be worshipped. I shall try to obtain the required set of deities. But my question is will Perumal harm his devotees for this?

What is the state of Prasadam that is offered to Bhagavan while there are no such things as hunger or thirst in Paramapadam?

What are the vegetables that can be cooked during Dvadasi?

Can adiyen repeat in thiruvai at 10pm the stotra patam that adiyen had learnt through GSPK? Are there any specific timings for learning stotra patam?

Can we accept the prasadam from non Srivaishnava devotees who had performed Saranagathi? Will we be committing any offence against a bhagavata if we do not accept it?

There was a topic on misdeeds and atonements in the previous Sudarshanam issue. Due to time, place and the current pandemic outbreak we could not perform certain rituals; how to atone for such misdeeds? Please clarify.

As I am desirous to become a Sri Vaishanava, what are the practises that I should follow?

At the outset, adiyen would like to ask for forgiveness if adiyen’s query is meaningless. We are followers of principles of Vishisthadvaitam; for emancipation, we perform Prapatti and the liberated souls are blessed with eternal servitude to Permual in his eternal abode; we are fortunate to be part of such a sublime tradition. But what is the need for Perumal to reveal himself? Why did he incarnate and why did he create this world? While there is no bondage because of the karmas for him, why does He strive to elevate us from the bondages of this material life? Why does he exist and why did He create this universe?

We have witnessed that Azhagar bringing bridal gifts during the wedding of Meenakshi; why then Sri Vaishnavas do not worship Ambal? Why do we not celebrate Varalakshmi Vratam?

How to celebrate Deepavali traditionally? As adiyen had felt for a long time that bursting of crackers are latest additions over a passage of time. Please let us know how our elders celebrated Deepavali.

What is the purpose of Navarathri? Our temples have a festival of launching arrows (ambu podudhal) during Navarathri; does this signify slaying of Ravana? Are there any special stotrams that women can chant during this period?

Has Swami Desikan mentioned about Deepavali in any of his works? Kindly clarify

What is Swami Desikan’s instructions on how to eat?

During a period of asaucam (impurity), can men and women recite stotra patam? Can men chant Vedas and participate in sandhai? Is this applicable to impurity associated with agnates and relations that cause 3 or 1.5 days asaucam? Adiyen dhanyosmi.

According to the scriptures, is the importance given to one’s position or one’s age? For example, can one prostrate in front of one’s sister-in-law (Elder brother’s wife) if that sister-in-law is younger? In this context, is the importance given to age? Similarly, can a lady and her husband prostrate before the lady’s sister-in-law (Lady’s Elder brother’s wife) even when both of them are older than the sister-in-law? Pray to clarify. Moreover, these days, not many accords respect to strata of relationships such as elder brother, elder sister, etc who are not addressed respectfully. Is it an effect of Kaliyuga?

How long should a disciple observe a period of impurity (asaucam) when the preceptor is not an ascetic but one who had administered samasrayanam, bharanyasam, and kalakshepam?

In the shraddhams, 1. why should the bachelors (Brahmachari) not be invited to act as manes to accept the offering? 2. What are the deterministic rules related to the gotram of a Swami who is invited to participate in shraddhams?

What type of kainkaryam (service) can we render at Paramapdam?

When one has to observe a period of impurity (asaucam) due to birth of a child, what are the daily austerity that one has to follow and what should be avoided?

A few, right after the conclusion of shraddham, proceed to perform Parehanee tharppanam. Is this the right procedure? If not, for those who have done so, is there any atonement?

If amvasyai (new moon day) occurs after 9 am on Deepavali, can one take an oil bath? Should one take bath again and perform tharppanam?

Who is referred to as Bhagavatas? Please explain who are Bhagavatas.

What oil should be used for lighting lamps?

How to develop sattvic traits over the dominance of the rajasic and tamasic qualities? Because at times, it is not possible to control emotions.

After Saranagati, all the services we render, such as stringing garlands of flowers, going to temples, celebrating Azhwars’ Tirunakshatram, participating in the temple festivals, etc. should be done without expecting any benefits, or should we simply worship the Perumal at home and render kainkaryam at home? Which is better?

On occasions such as Upanayanam (sacred thread investiture ceremony), Seemantam (ceremony performed at an appropriate time of the first pregnancy), Sashtiabda poorthi (ceremony to celebrate sixtieth birthday), Udakashanthi (sprinkling of ceremonial water) is performed. Is this done in the mornings or evenings? Which time is appropriate?

If Ekadasi occurs during a festival, which should be given importance, and what kind of food can be prepared on that day?

Why should you perform Sharanagathi immediately and how to overcome obstacles?

What is Shastram and Sampradayam? What’s the difference and why are they important?

When good fortunes happen to us, we say it is due to the grace of God and blessings of elders, but when misfortunes happen, we say it is our karma. Can you please explain for a better understanding of the next generation?

If harming another life is considered a sin, is it appropriate to wear silk sarees though silk is considered pure? The younger generation wants to be clarified as adiyen could not clear their doubts.

If a shraddha tithi falls on an Ekadasi day

Will serving rice during the ceremony accrue sin?

Can the kartha, kartha’s mother and brothers partake rice?

Can a widow partake the offerings during shraddha of her mother or father?

This is regarding shrarddam, if there are four brothers and the eldest brother could not perform the ceremony due to illness or any other reason, can any one of the other brothers do in lieu of the eldest?

Can one recite Divya Prabanda pasuram-s during Ammavasyai and Prathamai?

What type of food should be prepared on Adi and Thai Amavasyai-s, and on the masa pirappu days of Adi, Thai, Cittirai and Tula? Kindly clarify.

If the cut off time for morning Sandyavandhanam has exceeded, can one do it without taking bath or should one take bath and do Sandyavandhanam along with prayaschitta mantram?

Can we listen to bhajans of Smartha-s post prapatti? Is one allowed to listen to only songs about Srimannarayana? Can our artistes sing about other gods during concerts?

Can we listen to the discourse of Ramayana and Bhagavatam rendered by Smartha-s? Can we donate to their organization? Will it be considered as form of service?

Kindly explain rules of consecration of Sudarshana Yantra?

For tiruvaradhanam of household Perumal, during tirumanjanam (ceremonial bath), must Suktam be chanted? Or, are we allowed recite tirmanjana kattiyam followed by Sikshavalli, Andandavalli, Bhriguvalli, etc.?

Can we perform detailed tiruvaradhanam only on days such as amavasyai, ekadasi, etc. and restrict to performing manaseeka aradhanam on other days?

Due to my laziness, I find it laborious to prepare pure clothes ready everyday for rituals. I perform daily tiruvaradhanam for Shalagrama and other deities by following all the customary requirements. I am asking this as I am very much inclined towards materialistic lifestyle and find these difficult.

Those who do Amavasyai tharpanam, prepare food using moong dal and sundakai kuzhambu for thiruaradhanam. On certain Amavasyai days such as during Aippasi and Thai months, some prepare food using toor dal or mor kuzhambu. Or there any other months that one should prepare similar food during Amavasyai?

When was the 108 Divya Desam list compiled? While there are separate pasurams for places like Brindavanam, Vennattrankarai why are they not considered as Divya Desam?

Why should married men and women wear kacham/madisar type attire? Is there any reason that only they should wear this type of attire?

What is known as Soonya tithi? What tithi must be considered for that day? What to do when that day happens to be an Ekadasi day?

What is atithi? What is considered tithi for that day?

Can we add limestone (“sunnambhu”, which is referred to as “the third substance”) to the turmeric water used for harathi when Perumal is brought to our home or during a wedding?

What are the festivals that one can celebrate during an asauca period? Our priest had told us we can celebrate the festivals that are meant for God and avoid all festivals that are celebrated for us; can we celebrate Thiruvadipooram with offerings for Thayar or should we not celebrate any festival at all?

Kindly clarify should one perform Acarya Paduka thirumanjanam first followed by Perumal tiruvaradhanam on a Dwadasi?

What is the importance of Sripada tirtham? How should it be accepted? Who should accept it and who should not? At what times can this partaken?

Within what time should one commence paranai on Dwadasi? If Dwadasi is present for longer duration, before what time must one complete the paranai?

I am learning about sandyavandhanam, Samhita dhanam, etc. from Vidwans through several online classes. When one performs these ritualistic austerities, one becomes a Brahmana. In these rituals, there are mantras through which one can pray for one’s improved health, increased tejas, etc. In what capacity are the Brahmanas are needed for this society? What benefits does a society gain through them?

Swami, if a Brahmin realizes this, him and the society will get to know the various benefits that accrue to them. Plus, the Brahmanas will perform their duties with dedication. A better understanding might lead to avoidance of unreasonable arguments when people other than the Brahmins clamoring to perform such ritualistic duties.

If water is insentient, how can it purify when one takes head bath? Why are turmeric and vermilion powder considered auspicious? What makes them auspicious?

Why should we not visit temple during Pradosham?

Is it enough to recite every day the invocatory verse (thaniyan) of a Samasraya Acarya or should we recite that Acaryan’s Acarya thaniyan as well?

Can the disciples and devotees accept their preceptors and their consorts’ tiruvadhyayana prasadam?

What are fruits and vegetables that one can consume to nurture the sattvic trait as per the Aharaniyamam? It will be better if it is uploaded as a video.

Under what basis were the last rites that was performed by Peria Nambi to Maraneri Nambi accepted? Does this not violate the concerned varnashrama dharma (caste-based ethics)?

What is Harivasaram?

Can people who live abroad perform pancha samaskaram and bharanyasam? Are there any restrictions? Can they continue to live abroad after performing bharanyasam?

What is the significance of Ekadasi fasting and how to observe it as per the tradition?

What is the difference among Sarva Ekadasi, Smartha Ekadasi and Sri Vaishnava Ekadasi?

Why do we not accept Thulasi on Ekadasi day?

It was mentioned in Ani issue of Sudarsanam, that there is a remedial slokas for ancestral afflictions (Pitru dosham) and afflictions caused by serpents (Naga dosham). Is there any Desika sloka to mitigate the evil eye of relatives. Moreover, for generations we are affected by sarpa dosham (affliction due to serpents), how to safeguard our children from being affected from the afflictions? Shall we recite GarudaDandakam and GarudaPancashath or should the children recite them?

As adiyen is not aware about samskaram, requesting for clarification.

Can those of us who reside abroad perform samasrayanam and bharanayasam and continue to stay abroad due to circumstances or is it a must that they should return to India?

What is aparaahnam? It is said that tharppanam must be performed only during aparaahnam. Adiyen usually does the tharppanam after 1 PM. Kindly clarify whether this is appropriate.

Can the balance Perumal tirtham after distributing to others and Tirukkaaveri tirtham used for Tiruvaradhanam be reused for cooking purposes? What to do with the balance tirtham?

If a Srivaishnava Groom marries a non-Srivaishanava Bride, is he qualified to perform pitru kaaryam (rites performed for ancestors)? For the Bride qualify to perform our traditional rituals and practices, can she undergo Samashrayanam?

What are the general rules to observe Shravana vratam? What rules that married ladies should follow to observe Shravana vratam for Thiruvenkatamudaiyan or Oppiliappan?

Which Desika stotras can be recited to cure skin diseases?

What is the rationale behind offering the first tonsured hair of a child to God?

Adiyen had undergone Samashrayanam and Bharanyasam from a Acarya. Adiyen is not willing to celebrate Vinayaka caturthi; but my family who had done Samashrayanam and Bharanayasam celebrate it by preparing modagam and insist that adiyen should also celebrate. How to make them understand?

My daughter and son-in-law happened to go for two years higher study to France. Are there any atonements for crossing the sea to go abroad?

My aunt had performed pancha-samaskaram about 45 years ago from a head of a mutt in a village, but she does not remember any of the mantras. Can she perform pancha-samaskaram again by approaching another preceptor?

Can we the Srivaishnavas accept the prasadam prepared by a non Srivaishnava Brahmin in a temple?

Can a prappana partake food in a Srivaishnava house who has not undergone pancha-samaskaram?

As adiyen has to travel to Auckland for 6 months, how to carry Salagrama deities there and what are Acara Anushtanas that are to be followed?

During Pitru paksha period, should the tharpanam be done before tiruvaradhanam? During this period can one render kainkaryam at temples or mutts by participating in recitations?

Adiyen’s mother had attained the eternal abode in a car accident while returning after worshipping Thirumogur Azhagar koil and Periazhwar thiruvarasu koil; aidyen’s brother does all the rituals and as her daughter what are the anushtanams should adiyen follow and what stotras can adiyen recite?

We perform Pancha-samaskaram without knowing it’s meaning and greatness. Would Perumal still grant salvation for us as we do the Bharanyasam and Samashrayanam through an Acharya ritualistically alone without any knowledge? Adiyen apologises if it is an improper query.

My elder sister Smt Saroja’s first annual ceremony will be this coming Karthikai month, sukla paksha trayodasi day. So far, all monthly and periodical ceremonies such as maasiyam and unam have been taking place properly. But, Karthika month sukla paksha trayodasi is not in the panchangam. Given this, how to conduct varushapthikam, unaaptikam, etc.? On which days must these be performed? We are clueless. Kindly clarify

On my husband’s side, the agnates (kinsmen – my father-in-law’s 4 brothers and their children) are alive. Most of us live either live in India or at the USA. Recently my father-in-law’s elder brother and his son attained the eternal abode. Even though we observed 10 days of asaucam, I have doubts about the rules and rituals to follow when an agnate attains eternal abode and I pray to the Vidwans that these doubts be clarified so that it is valuable for us and the generations to come.

My father-in-law is alive – given this, must my husband perform kuzhi tharpanam on the 10th day wherever he is at?

Can we render services at Perumal temples?

Can Perumal be brought in procession to our residence as part of Dolotsavam?

Can we light maavilakku during the month of Purattasi and are we allowed to celebrate the Tirunakshatrams of Perumal and Acaryas?

Can we celebrate other festivals such as Varusha Pirappu, Navarathri, Deepavali, Karthikai, Kanu, etc.?

Kindly forgive me for a lengthy query.

Adiyen’s eldest brother-in law performs tharpanam at Mahalaya tithi for my father-in-law; but my daughter’s birth star coincides on that day. Is there anything wrong in doing it on that day?

Can we draw kolam at Perumal sannidhi coinciding with that particular day?

Adiyen had done Samashrayanam; after listening to many upanyasams, adiyen desires to do Prapatti. But the elders at home worship other gods along with Perumal and celebrate their festivals too. In this situation can adiyen undergo Prapatti and what are the post prapatti requirements?

Adiyen has asaucam for ten days and before this was over, another ten-day asaucam happened. How to observe asaucam period? How to perform kuzhi tharpanam?

Adiyen has performed Samashrayanam and Bharanayasam; can I celebrate Saraswathi pooja as before or should I worship Hayagriva Perumal now?

Can we bath in the holy rivers like Ganga, Cauvery while we observe one-year theetu, as adiyen’s husband is the kartha and is performing masyam?

Can we accept thamboolam (betel leaves and nut) during tharpanam and sraddha days?

Can we apply sandal paste to Saligrama deities after Thirumanjanam at the temple and at home (we have a lot of saligrama deities) and we also offer Tulasi.

Can we use the same Pavitram for a few days repeatedly at temples?

Adiyen has one Salagrama deity and one Dwaraka Lakshmi individually at the house. Can adiyen’s husband perform thriumanjanam to the deities together?

Adiyen does not know Sanskrit, but adiyen recites Desika slokas, Paduka Sahasram and Sahasranama every day. As adiyen does not know its correct pronunciation and as adiyen is over sixty years in age, memorization becomes difficult. Is there atonement for mispronunciation as adiyen wants to recite many slokas?

I am asking this on my son-in-law’s behalf. Recently my son-in-law’s father attained acaryan tiruvadi. As he performs maasyam, must also perform amavasyai tarppanam? Some priests say that because he performs maasyam, there is no need to perform amavasyai tarppanam. Kindly clarify his doubts.

We have 3 Hiranyagarbha Salagrama-s at our house for which my husband performs thirumanjanam daily with milk, tirtham, etc.; in the previous issue of Sudarshanam, it was mentioned Salagrama deities should be in numbers of one, four, and so on. Please clarify.

After retirement adiyen learnt Bhagavatam, Bhagavat Gita, Sundara Kandam, and recite Sri Vishnu Sahasranama every day. The previous Sudarshanam issue explained that women should not recite Sahasranama. I recite Sahasranama out of devotion and not for any benefit and I omit the Sankalpa and palasruti parts. Can women recite Bhagavat Gita, Bhagavatam, and Sundara Kandam out of devotion?

While offering food to Perumal, must we add Thiruthuzai to all the salted cooked items or should it be added only on cooked rice?

What are the rules for observance during Mahapradosham and can we recite stotras during that time?

When does a Prappana reach Sri Vaikuntam after leaving his mortals? Is there a reference on this by Azhwars and Acarya-s?

By the grace of Acarya, adiyen has performed prappati. Those who performed prapatti should not commit Bhagavata Apacaram (offending other devotees). Have the scriptures specifically pinpointed what is a Bhagavata apacaram and who are Bhagavatas as per our Sampradayam? Are they only devotees of Vishnu or those who worship all Gods including Perumal?

Is it a must to wear new poonal after every haircut? Adiyen does Thiruvaradhanam every day hence, the doubt.

How to join this group?

Why do we prostrate 4 times?

While performing japam, how do we keep count? I used to mark 3 counts for each finger; have heard elsewhere that one must count twice for each finger. Which is correct?

We were fortunate to be gifted with 10 salagrama deities and two dwaraka deities recently. Please provide details on how to serve them.

Can we have deities of Alillai Krishna (Krishna reclining on a Banyan tree leaf) and Krishn playing flute at the sanctums in our homes?

Shall we prostrate when someone is standing in a goshti (religious gathering)?

Why must Sri Vaishnavas not worship other demi-gods? Is it true that visiting their temples cause dosha?

How should we recite Ashtakshram, Dvayam, Carama slokam, and Dhayana sloka as per Sri Sannidhi tradition?

In Vadakalai Yajur Veda tradition, during amavasyai tarppanam, how many darbha grass must be placed on hand and seat? In the thaambaalam (bigger-sized salver/tray), how many darbha grasses must be placed East to West in parallel?

What are the practises that one should observe while offering clothes to a Divya Desa Perumal, Nacchiar, and Ubaya Nacchiar?

Kindly explain about Adhyayana and Anadhyayana periods?

In a Sandhyavandanam at what juncture does turiiya arghyam occur? Does it occur before or after the respective Sandhyavandanam periods (Sunrise and Sunset)? Is there any stipulation that Sandhyavandanam is to be performed only with a certain time window before or after Sunrise and Sunset? For example, can the morning Sandhyavandanam can be performed either at 4 AM or 11 AM?

Can Madhyanikam be done after Dwadasi thiruvaradhanam and paranai?

Is the rule that one must partake food only once a day during Mahalaya paksham applicable from commencement of Mahalaya paksham only until the day when one performs Mahalaya paksha tarppanam? Or is it applicable throughout the Mahalaya paksham period?

What is the method to thread Yagnyopavitam and what are its related austerities?

Kindly explain what Mantrasalagatta Prayogam.

My grandson has completed 9 years and in the 10th year. Like to know what the appropriate age for Upanayanam is. Should this be performed in the odd or even numbered age? Which age – the completed years or the running age, should be considered? Some say that Upanayanam must be performed only during even numbered age and not in odd numbered age; is this correct? Pray clarify.

What are important festivals of Ayyangars?

Some households perform Lakshmi puja on days such as Deepavali, Amavasyai, etc. Because elders perform tarppanam on those days, festivals are not celebrated.

Kindly list and provide a brief explanation on the festivals celebrated by our elders.

Because of diabetes, to control sugar level, adiyen uses brown rice only. Can we use brown rice to prepare offerings to Perumal during Tiruvaradhanam?

What is the link to access the back issues of Sudarshanam?

Can we listen to upanyasams uploaded in internet (youtube) during Asauca period? What can and cannot be done during Asauca period?

Adiyen wants to perform Samashrayanam and Bharanyasam; can adiyen do this on my own or should it be done along with my husband?

Why do we omit Abhivadanam while prostrating a Sanyasi?

It is stated that only after performing Madhyanikam, Thiruvaradhanam can be done; as our children had to go to office, food is prepared before 8am and Madhayanikam is done before 7.30am and food is offered to Perumal after Thiruvaradhanam. Please clarify whether after performing Thiruvaradhanam, can adiyen do Madhyanikam at the stipulated time?

When an own brother-in law attains Paramapadam, can we celebrate annual festivals, or should we observe theetu for a year?

Are sprinkling milk on snake pit during Adi and Thai Fridays and setting up Golu after Bharasamarpanam considered having association with other Devatantaram (Demi-gods)?

Can we mentally chant Rama Nama during a period of asaucam?

What is the meaning of Kalakshepam and what is the eligibility for Kalakshepam?

Should we observe theetu for ten days and one year if asaucam occurred in the sibling’s family of my father-in law with whom we are not in touch for more than ten years?

Adiyen’s father left us more than 20 years ago. When we go to know in 2018 that he has passed away, my mother did not agree for performance of any karmas. But recent difficult situations at home make us wonder if these are due to pitru dosham. I have spoken to my father 6 years ago. Without knowing the tithi on which he attained paramapadam, how to perform the karmas?

Is it appropriate to go to temples or undergoing samashrayanm under this situation?

Note: During the annual ceremony for my maternal uncle this Aippasi, I had sat for the Nimittika sthanam.

Adiyen, Lord Oppilliappan is our kuladeivam; at home should we cook food without salt and offer it to Perumal?

What are the important differences between Pancharathram and Vaikanasam?

What is the method to practise Astakshara japa? Can it be chanted along with Dvayam and Carama slokam? Should we sit or stand while reciting and how many times a given day should this be recited?

Should we feed crows daily?

What are Anushtanams? Can you please explain it through a video?

After Bharanyasam adiyen could not worship Acarya thaniyan-s due to physical debility. Is this an offence committed against the Acaryan?

From what age one must observe Ekadasi Vratam?

Should Sumagali-s partake tiffin during tharpanam like men?

During Ekadasi, if we have the fortune of receiving aravanai/Ksheeraanna prasadam of Periya Perumal, can we partake it during the next day, on Dwadasi?

On 13/01/22, both Bhogi and Vaikunta ekadasi occurred simultaneously; during such occurrences should we observe Vratam or offer festive food for Perumal and partake them?

Can women celebrate Kanu festival for their brothers after performing Sarangati? Can a woman participate in kanupidi during periods?

If a masikam could not be performed during a month, can it be done along with the subsequent month’s masikam? What are the prescribed rules?

Can marriage be done between boy and girl of the same gothra as per our sampradayam?

Generally, in society widows are not allowed to participate in auspicious functions. Why are they being avoided? Are these new rules brought in by us or are these scriptural ordains? Are these accepted by our preceptors? Is this applicable for Srivaishnava women who had done Prapatti? If those who have done Prapatti are Nityasumangalis, then what is the harm in inviting them for auspicious functions? Please pardon this query if it is inappropriate.

Can a Srivaishnava household have conch (Shankam)? If so, what is the procedure for aradhanam? If not allowed, how should the conch be utilized?

Both our parents have attained Paramapadam. Our elder brother was performing their rites. As he has attained Paramapadam, can we sisters perform annual shraddham for our parents? As our late elder brother was a bachelor, as his siblings, are we allowed to perform his shraddham? For a spinster/unmarried woman who does not have parents, who are allowed to perform her last rites?

Adiyen belongs to the Sama Veda branch. Based on Yajur Vedic method have learned Acchidram and Kaatakam. Currently learning Arunam. Have also started learning Sama Veda. As I am 62 years old, find it difficult to learn Sama Veda. Can adiyen continue to learn Yajur Veda? Can adiyen recite Yajur Veda?

Should the males perform achamanam after taking bath, wearing the appropriate dress, and adorning Thiruman? Or must achanaman be performed after wearing the dress and before adoring Thiruman?

Can Tulasi plant be watered on Ekadasi? One of adiyen’s friends said as Tulasi also fasts on Ekadasi, we must not water Tulasi on Ekadasi. kindly clarify this.

In a given year, during which months and days of week one must not shave? At present based on adiyen’s limited knowledge, adiyen does not shave on Tuesdays and Fridays along with Amavasyai, Paurnami, Ekadasi, Dwadasi days; adiyen also does not shave during the entire paksham (half of the month) on which adiyen’s parents shraddham occurs.

Traditionally we do not use plantain-related products during dwadasi; but if tarpanam due to a new month (masa pravesam) or new moon (amavasyai) occurs during dwadasi, can we then use raw banana (Vaazhai kaai)? Kindly clarify.

How should males do Acamana? What are the rules that are to be followed while doing Acamana?

Can a Prappanna pray to Emperuman for benefits on behalf of someone who had not rendered Prapatti?

What is Gothram? Does it apply to all varanasrama? Can we find out the varnasrama through gothram?

Can we get the English version of the book on Asaucha published by you?

In what order should the following Prabandha and sloka-s listed below are recited during Thiruvaradhanam?

Thiruppallandu, Thiruppalliezhuchi, Thiruppavai, Amalanadipiran, Kanninunchiruthambu, irAmAnusa nuTTrandAdhi, Nyasa Dashakam, Adaikkalpatthu, PillaiandAdhi, Acarya thanians.

I have padhukas graced by my divine Acharya. Kindly explain details of daily aradhanam them. Should I carry them while I am traveling?

Can Sri Vaishnavas perform Bhishma tharpanam during Bhishmashtami as some of the siblings of my father-in-law follow that practice?

Adiyen has a doubt with regards to asaucam related to births and deaths. Dasharathri jnathas are those from a current-generation plus 6 generations before (for a total of 7 generations); Trirathri jnathas are those from 7 generations after the current generation. For dasharathri jnathas the asaucam period is 10 days and for trirathri janathas it is 3 days. Is this correct? Kindly clarify.

Can we perform Perumal thiruvaradhanam with the help of a book or should we learn them through Acarya or relevant learned people?

What is the proper time to do thiruvaradhanam in the mornings? If we could not do it in the morning, can it be done in the evening?

Can prapannas partake the laddu prasadham that is offered at the counters of Thirumala Thirupathi?

While one wants to do prapatti, should that person need to follow proper conduct like maintaining purity (madi and acaram)? As adiyen is aware that prapatti can be done at any time or place; Draupadi was in a different position when she rendered prapatti; so does that mean prapatti does not require complete acaram?

Which dal can be used during dwadasi, is it toor dal or moong dal?

During what occasions should we change the sacred thread and during which theetu should one change the sacred thread?

What is the importance of wearing madi vastram and urdhva pundram while performing religious austerity like thiruvaradhanam?

If samashrayanam is performed through one Acarya and bharanyasam through another Acarya of the same mutt, then whom should we consider as our Acarya? Please clarify.

Adiyen’s parents attained paramapadam one after the other in the same year. My elder brother had undergone an operation for heart disease which resulted in mental stress; his behavior had turned out for the worst which has caused distress to my sister-in-law. Is there a remedy for this? What sloka can we chant as an atonement to mitigate miseries?

Adiyen had performed samashrayanam and bharanyasam under 45th Azhagiyasingar. Adiyen is yet to get an opportunity to do Rahasyatrayasaram kalakshepam properly. Is this an obstacle? As I have to travel to the United States frequently to take care of my grandson, due to the time difference I could not participate through the internet; but I perform the daily and regular (nitya and naimittika karmas) rituals without fail and recite slokas to my ability. Is attending kalakshepam a must?

One who after upanayanam, having undergone samashrayanam, if they do not perform trikaala sandhyavandanam, will one get the benefit of having done prapatti through an Acarya? Is trikaala sandhyavandanam a must for prapatti? It is said that one who does not perform sandhyavandanam is not qualified to perform rituals ordained by the Vedas. Is the rule applicable for prappatti?

Can we offer (vermicelli) semiya thirukannamadhu to Perumal?

Can adiyen do Perumal thiruvaradhanam after returning home from the temple? Or should adiyen do so only after taking a bath? Or should thiruvaradhanam be done before going to the temple?

Can we chant Acarya thanian and dwayam mentally during asauca period?

Adiyen had come to know that when a brahmin boy weds a girl of another caste the boy loses his status as a brahmin to the extent that he becomes unfit to perform sandhyavandanam; but in the previous Sudarshanam issue it has been said that the girl can do bharanyasam; so does this mean the boy still has the right to do rituals ordained by sastram?

Can we recite the stotram in a fast pace? Can we recite the phalasruthi alone? Is it appropriate to recite the first stanza aloud and the second stanza of a stotram mentally like how we recite in a group? Is it not wrong to recite the first part of a long storam aloud and recite the second half mentally? Does this accrue the required fruits?

What should be done with the balance sesame seeds after tharpanam? Can we store and reuse it again? Some say the balance seed should not be used and it should be added to the bhugnam.

What practices must one follow on the day of one’s Acaryan’s tiruvadhyayana day? Kindly clarify whether there are any precepts to follow like those that one follows for Acaryan’s Tirunakshatram.

How to join GSPK?

Why are Rudram and Chamakam recited before Brahmotsavam Teerthavaari?

It is a common practice that ladies undergo samashrayanam after marriage. But, if a lady desires to perform bharanyasam before marriage, is it allowed? If the AcArya of her bharanyasam before marriage and the Acarya of the household of her future husband is different, will bharanyasam performed before marriage yield fruits? And will it be accepted?

It is understood that we perform Prapatti to attain Emperuman as following Bhaktiyogam as a means is impossible in this Kaliyugam. Swami Desikan has mentioned about Agnyaa and Anugnyaa kainkaryam at many instances. Is it a must for a Prappanna to perform Agnyaa kainkaryam as prescribed in the Sruti-Smritis? Moreover, as per Gita that whatever Bhagavan has uttered as karmayoga and Agnyaa kainkaryam are they both one and the same (sathyam vada, speak the truth)? Or are they different?

Adiyen lives in a new multi-storey flat where the residents have decided to construct a Vinayakar temple in the premises and all the flat owners had to help. All in our family have performed Bharnyasam and we do not visit other temples but we cannot refuse to participate in this work. There is no need to do anything after the temple construction so please advise.

Adiyen is non-brahmin Srivaishnava; adiyen came to know that performing Sandhya-vandanam will remove all our sins; how to alleviate the sins that I do unknowingly as adiyen is not qualified do sandhyavandanam?

Should one sit or stand to perform thiruvaradhanam for Perumal?

Adiyen is desirous of rendering Bharanyasam but people of my house are not co-operative and cite reasons to delay. I could not teach my twenty-year-old daughter about its significance because the elders and my husband feel that it is not an important ritual. As my Acaryan’s place is far away, they cite distance as a reason and dissuade me for going to worship. I wish that my daughter should adhere to this tradition. Is there a way for better prospects?

When should we recite Ashtakshara mantra? Should it be while reciting Acarya thanian or during sandhyavandanam? How many times should we chant? I have heard its glory and benefits through Vidwan-s but need clarification on how many times and when to chant it.

During dvadasi should we partake the salt less paranai without touching the teeth? I have heard vaguely in my younger age that one has to take three morsels of it, kindly clarify.

During Ekadasi, can we offer cooked rice to Perumal? Can we offer milk or fruits every day to Perumal?

During Ammavasyai, while doing tharpanam can we draw kolam after cleaning the kitchen counter and floor?

My father attained Paramapadam during June 2021. Coming June 1st is his varushaptikam (first annual ceremony). My mother lives with me

When should I perform Gaya shraddham? What is its importance?

What is Akshaya Vatam?

Must Rameshwaram Sethu snanam be completed along with Gaya shraddham?

Must we go on pilgrimage only after completing all of the above?

Due health reasons, my mother cannot travel to Gaya and other places. Is it alright for only adiyen and my wife to travel for Gaya shraddham and Sethu snanam?

Can we offer cooked food to Perumal in the Ever Silver vessel? In what kind of utensils should we offer food?

Can we offer payasam made of sugar to Perumal?

Is re-marriage appropriate? What do the scriptures say about re-marriage?

We live in multi storey apartment, if other saints visit near our place what should we do?

Should we treat Sri Rama Navami like Ekadasi, and Dwadasi thaligai the subsequent day to Perumal? What should we offer on Sri Rama Navami during Perumal Tiruvaradhanam?

My Periyappa’s wife (Periyamma) attained Acaryan thiruvadi on a Dasami; can adiyen observe Ekadasi vratam the next day? Adiyen has started observing nirjala upavasam (total fasting without water) for a few months now.

Adiyen’s husband’s sister passed away last week on Panchami tithi; she was a spinster. How many days I and my children should observe asaucam? Must we re-commence the light of Perumal lamp, Tiruvaradhanam, etc. only after asaucam ends? Adiyen’s husband had also passed away eleven months ago.

Can men apply Thayar’s Kumkum as Srichuranam?

Should one observe a strict code of madi and acaram while performing Thriumanjanam for Salagrama deities and Acarya Padukai-s? if a prappana could not follow such observance will it be an hindrance to attain moksham or will Perumal rectify our omissions through minor punishments? Adiyen could not follow the strict code of the prescribed observance and am striving to do my best, hence this question.

Do we have any mantra for purifying flowers that are bought from vendors as we are unsure of their acaram or can we purify the flowers by sprinkling waters and then offer them to Perumal?

Can the madi vastram hung out for dry be removed from the clothesline by wearing a plastic cover? Or must they be removed only with a wooden stick? Does removing them with a plastic cover make them tainted? Pardon my ignorance.

Adiyen’s father does amavasyai tharppanam. My mother says that I should not take a head bath on those days. Adiyen does laghu Paduka Tiruvaradhanam every day. On days such as amavasyai, I am at a loss on how to perform Tiruvaradhanam without taking a head bath; kindly clarify.

Through the previous issue of Sudarshanam, adiyen got clarification for one of my question on whether one should adhere to the requirements of madi while performing prapatti. Swami has also said that we should try to maintain the madi to the extent possible and try to avoid being impure if it can be avoided. Adiyen’s bharanyasam was performed by prakrutam Azhagiyashingar. Based on the clarification provided by the Vidwan, I understood that the vastram that adiyen wore on that day was tainted. This has caused mental anxiety; will this accrue any sin?

Adiyen’s bharanyasam Acaryan was Tirukkudantai Andavan. For a long time, the Pradosham puja at our village temple was sponsored by our household elders. We have relocated to Chennai. Can we continue to sponsor the kainkaryam at the village temple? Is it wrong just supporting financial from afar? Or must we go physically to the temple on Pradosham?

For those of us who reside abroad, we are unable to follow Srirangam panchangam, etc. We follow online-based panchangams on the internet. Hence, pray let us know when Sri Nrusimha Jayanthi occurs.

Is Sri Nrusimha Jayanthi on Vaikaci Shukla paksha Trayodasi or Caturdasi?

For Tiruvaradhanam of the incarnation period, should the tithi be based on sunrise or sunset?

It is stipulated that at least 6 nazhigai-s the tithi (whether based on sunrise or sunset) must exist. If not, for us to perform the Tiruvaradhanam the next day, which dosham must we consider?

We are trying to sell our flat. Is there any shloka for recitation to ensure the process goes through without any obstacles?

Adiyen is hearing impaired. To rectify this, what sholakam should I chant as a prayer to Emperuman?

Adiyen has to eat lunch at the office which contains Onion and Garlic. The travel to and from the office takes long hours to commute. Having eaten food with onion and garlic, can I recite Sahasranamam during the travel back home? Once back at home, is it enough to wash hands and legs and rinse mouth before doing sandhyavandanam?

Many thanks for responding to adiyen’s query (Q28CHIT21006) on shaving. I have a confusion: Initially, it was explained that shaving must not be done during the months of Adi, Margahzi, and Maci; but later it was said that shaving can be done during the first half of Adi and the second halves of Margazhi and Maci; further, there was no mention about Sundays. Kindly clarify my confusion.

While in the middle of Tiruvaradhanam, or tharppanam or sandhyavandanam, when there is a need to urinate, what must one do? Must one bathe again before continuing? Kindly clarify.

During Tiruvaradhanam, should the Ramayana and Bhagavatam slokas be recited during alankarasnanam or during paryankasnanam? Should we need to recite Bhagavatam moolam parayanam after Tiruvaradhanam? Kindly clarify.

As per the rules of anusthanams, before taking bath one must wear appropriate clothing (snanasaadi), perform sankalpam, etc. Considering the materialistic duties, it is not possible to do this elaborately due to lack of time. Hence, requesting to share a simpler way of following snana sankalpam. Which clothes (Snanasaadi) can be worn for bathing? As an example, can we use an angavastram of a torn dhoti?

Adiyen can understand the rule that like Gayatri japam, one must perform Ashtakshara japam thrice daily. Can we do japam for any number of counts like Gayatri japam? Disciples of Ahobila Mutt have a practice of reciting Acarya taniyans, Dvaya mantram, Carama sloka, and Ashtaksharam daily. Based on the response to a query in the previous issue of Sudarsanam, understood that it is enough to chant Ashtakshara mantram only during sandhyavandanam. Is my understanding correct? Should we not chant Ashtakshara mantra during other times? Many Acaryas and vidwans have spoken extensively about Ashtakshara mantram. Have read long ago in Nrusimha Priya that the 45th Srimad Azhagiya Shingar while at Badrinath, had performed Ashtakshara japam. Ladies are not qualified to perform sandhyavandanam. If Ashtakshara japam is allowed only during sandhyavandanam, how can the women do Ashtakshara japam? What other mantras would the saints of the past performed their japams on besides the Ashtakshara mantra?

What is the difference between the Kaivalyaarthis and the Mumukshus? Where will the Kaivalyaarthis go to? Kindly explain in detail.

Usually, the Salagrama stone is black in color. I do tirumanjanam daily. A few years ago my mother gave me a Salagrama stone that was white in color and which belonged to her mother. She told not to do tirumanjanam for that Salagrama (now my mother is not alive). I do not know much about this topic. Kindly explain.

For Upanayanams and Seemanthams, it is stipulated that one must not eat until the muhurtha kalam is over. What is the rationale behind this?

As per Ahara Niyamam, which vegetables and fruits must one avoid (Watermelon, Tomato, Moringa (drumstick), etc.)?

Can Garlic and others that must be avoided from the diet be used as medicines? (It is said that garlic milk is good to treat cough and cold).

Can a couple who have undergone sharanagati, celebrate Shasthiabdapoorthi? What will be a suitable method to perform Shasthiabdapoorthi? We live in a Divya Desam; as it is a village, temples for demi-gods exist here. We are asked to donate to fund these temples; can we contribute as a Bhagavad Aradhanam? Some do not understand this concept. We belong to the Vadakalai sect. The temple here follows the Thenkalai tradition and demi-gods are available in this temple. Can we go to such temples?

Based on adiyen’s understanding – after one who has undergone prapatti at an young age, commits several intentional and unintentional sinful deeds. The unintentional sins are ignored but for intentional sinful deeds only when one performs prayschitta (atonement) prapatti, there will not be any obstacles for attaining moksham. Is adiyen’s understanding correct? What will happen when one does not perform prayschitta prapatti?

I have heard that ghee must added twice to rice for pariseshanam. Is this correct?

In the pooja room at home, which direction the pictures and photos of Perumal must not be facing?

Which direction must the photos of ancestors in the lineages be facing?

The Thayars the utsava Perumals at Kanchipuram and Melkote are similar in appearance carrying a lotus flower in their right hand. But at other Divya Desam-s Sridevi Thayar holds a lotus flower in her right hand while Bhudevi Thayar holds it in her left hand. Is there a specific reason for the Thayars at Kanchipuram and Melkote to carry the lotus flower in their right hand?

All are allowed to witness the tirumanjanam of Emperuman; why do they screen off while Emperuman is offered the prasadams?

Can a bachelor who has undergone upanayanam wear 12 Thiruman?

My father’s sraddha tithi is Avani Saptami. In this year’s panchangam, Saptami is shown to occur on three days of Avani (Avani 2nd, 17th and 32nd days). From these days, on which days must the sraddham be performed? Usually my father’s tithi occur one day before Gokulashtami. Kindly clarify the confusion regarding the tithi.

Adiyen – if we have Salagrama and Perumal deities at home, can we perform Tiruvaradhanam twice a day? Or is Tiruvaradhanam restricted once a day?

Adiyen is desirous of performing Sharanagathi but has a physical ailment of nerves due to which adiyen could not prostrate Acaryan. Can adiyen have the fortune of performing Sharanagati?

Can we use urad dal during Ekadasi, can we use them while making idli, upma and serve them to elders?

How should one celebrate the day that we performed Bharanyasam? Should it be based on date or based on the day and star?

Our ancestors belong to a place called Keezhpattam at Thirunelveli, who migrated to Neduntheru and from there to Srirangam. We are not sure about our kula deivam. Once we use to worship Chakratazhwar as our kula deivam, present in a separate temple at Keezhpattam. Now that temple is no longer present, and the deity is also at another temple. A few days ago, we did thirumanjanam for Prasanna Rajagopalaswami of Neduntheru. Who should we accept as our kula deivam?

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How many times should one recite their Acarya thaniyan in a day? Is there a way to learn asmad deiska asmadiya slokam?

Can one use darbha mat instead of a wooden plank during the evening Sandhya-vandhanam and chant gayatri japam?

What will be the status of the jIvAtmA at Srivaikuntham after attaining moksham? How will be our body?

How will be our knowledge?

Will we be called by the name given to us by our parents on Earth?

In addition to Perumal, Thayar and Nityasuri-s, will we be able to worship Azhwars and Acharyas? Can we converse with them in Tamil?

How to learn in detail about orthodoxies (AcAram)? Kindly explain the basics of Vishistadwaitam philosophy.

Adiyen heard about this in discourse – even after performing prapatti if one is associated with other demi-gods during the rest of their lifetime, the person delivering the discourse said that it means that prapatti has not been performed properly. Is this correct?

Will a prapatti performed as Acharya nishtai (surrendering to an Acharya and letting him to present one as a prapanna) or Ukti nishtai (repeating the words of prapatti as instructed by an Acharya), fail? If it can, what the person delivering the discourse said might apply to those who have performed prapatti as Sva nishtai (attaining the necessary knowledge through one’s own efforts to perform prapatti) or if the said prapatti was initiated by an unqualified person. How to understand this?

What is Chandrashtamam? What are the Dos and Don’ts during Chandrashtamam? Can Srivaishnavas give importance to this? How to approach this?

While undertaking kainkaryam of Tirumanjanam at temples or during Sudarshana homam at homes, can the sankalpam by prapannas include “bhagavad prItyartham”? Or is it appropriate to do the sankalpam with one’s gotram, nakshatram, name, etc.?

When we embark on a journey to foreign countries or to other places, can these be done Amavasyai days? Can any auspicious tasks be started on Amavasyai days?

In the previous issue of Sudarshanam, Svami clarified adiyen’s query that even if it is a Perumal prasadam, a Srivaishnava must not accept that prasadam when offered by a non-Srivaishnava; it is considered a dosham. On that day, without being aware of this, aidyen had already partaken Opiliappan prasadam (sarkkarai pongal) and Tiruppati laddu prasadam. Would adiyen have accrued effects of sin because of this? If so, what is the atonement?

What must one do with the Pavitra malai gotten from temples? What must we do with older Pavitra malai-s?

In the last issue of Sudarshanam it was mentioned that Perumal tirtham can be distributed three times for the household members; is this applicable to all those who are in the house or only to those who have undergone samashrayanam?

Is there any stipulation that sandhyavandanam must be done within a particular time? For example, can it be done before 10 PM? At times, during travels, sandhyavandanam cannot be performed at the appropriate time. Are there any atonements to follow when performed untimely?

Due to my workload, I am unable to recite many slokas. What is a simple alternative?

Recently I heard that only those who have undergone samashrayanam or bharanyasam must recite Rahasya Trayam. I have neither performed samashrayanam nor undergone bharanyasam yet; but I am learning Vedas and Srimad Bhagavad Gita, through which learned about Ashtaksharam and Charama Sloka. Based on my understanding, Dvaya mantra is part of Srimad Ramayanam. I want to know whether one who has not performed samshrayanam or bharanyasam can recite Srimad Ramayanam, Srimad Bahgavad Gita, Upanisha,etc.

Can we reuse the cloth that was adorned on Perumal during tirthavari (Tirumanjanam) after drying it? Or should we dry clean and use it?

Adiyen has performed Ukti nishtai (repeating the words of prapatti as instructed by an Acharya) for bharanyasam. At times, out of fear and ignorance, have been rife with the thought whether my bharanyasam was conducted properly. Have realized now that for bharanyasam on must have absolute faith on Acharya and Perumal. I regret for having wrong impressions previously. Several times have asked forgiveness from Salagrama Perumal-s and Acharya Paduka-s at home; my fear made me do this. Are there any atonements for this?

When we travel abroad, is there a count on how many Salagrama murtis we can carry?

Is Periya Thirumalai Nambigal Thirunakshatram on Purattasi Anusham or is it on Vaikasi Svati? In a commentary, it is said that Srimad Panchamata Panjanam Taathadesikan incarnated during Thirumalai Nambigal Thirunakshatram. Have also heard that Thirumalai Nambigal Thirunakshatram is celebrated at Thirumalai Thirupati during Purattasi Anusham.

What is special about Thirumanjana Kattiyam recitation?

Scriptures have prohibited one from self-shaving and cutting one’s hair (self-cutting). Present-day life does not permit following this practice due to work and other reasons. Is there any atonement for this?

What must one do with Parivattam-s, the ceremonial head cloth, after Egal (13th day)?

To a possible extent, adiyen was contributing to Thanjavur, Raja Matam Santhana Rajagopala Svami temple`s kainkaryam. Recently adiyen got to know that a sanctum for Pillaiyar available at that temple after which adiyen stop contributing. I also learned that adiyen’s money was used for kainkaryam of that Pillaiyar. As result, will adiyen be considered to be tainted with the association of demi-gods?

Should the achamanam done during Brahma Yajnam be done without mantras?

At adiyen’s home, along with Salagrama Perumal-s, there are many other smaller idols of Emperuman-s. Along with them, there was another very small idol placed, and without knowing what the idol was, adiyen used to submit all offerings that were submitted to other Perumals. Only recently adiyen got to know that it was a small idol of Saraswati. Will adiyen be tainted with the association of demi-gods and is there any atonement?

What is the procedure to worship the Dwarapalaka-s and Anjaneya at temples?

What is the procedure to follow for performing Salagrama Tiruvaradhanam? Adiyen’s husband performs thirumanjanam only for Salagrama murthi-s with milk and curd. What is the proper method?

I have heard that during the days of ‘Vriddhi theetu’ (Vriddhi Asaucam, caused due to the birth of a child), one should not participate in kalakshepams? Can one listen to upanyasams on such days?

Here in the USA, the temples nearer our home follow Tenkalai sampradayam alone. During satrumura, can we recite the taniyans as per our sampradayam? Further, can we recite the Tenkalai Acharya (because they follow Sribhasya sampradayam) taniyan?

As we live in the USA, we are unable to go to Divya Desam-s such as Srirangam, Kanchi, etc. I am afraid that getting immersed in the divine Deity of Emperuman in our temple might provide an opportunity to worship Divya Desam Perumal. Is it correct to discriminate between the various Archa murthi-s of Emperuman? Will it beget sin?

It is about the solar eclipse that will be happening in the days to come – during the eclipse, usually adiyen will purify and recite Sri Vishnu Sahasranam, chant Ashtakshra mantra japam and after eclipse, perform tharppanam.

Have heard that during this period, one can continue to perform the daily Tiruvaradhanam for the Salagrama murthi; is it correct?

Is there any special method to perform Tiruvaradhanam during the eclipse?

In the Tiruvaradhanam during the eclipse, can we restrict the offering for Perumal to milk, fruit and rock candy (Kalkandu)?

During daily Tiruvaradhanam, can we offer small chunks of Jack fruit, Pineapple, etc. instead of the whole fruit? Must only whole areca nut along with betel leaf be offered? Adiyen is offering broke areca nuts.

Adiyen belongs to vrAtya varnam (one who has renounced caste by not performing prescribed duties).

How do I reclaim my rights to perform upanayanam, recitation of the Vedas, etc.? Are there any atonements to claim them back?

Is bharanyasam a must to attain salvation (moksham)? The adherents of Tenkalai say it is not a must. But I desire to perform bharanyasam as per Vadakalai tradition. What must I do? And why is this difference in belief?

When a death occurs at a house, it said that for one year no kolam should be drawn. What is the Vedic justification for this?

Is it a Must for those who do not have theetu (asaucam) to change the sacred thread when they attend the 10th day ceremony (dasakham)?

When we perform a Gaya shraddham, must we also perform for our Acharyan who is a Vikunthavasi (one who has attained moksham)?

Adiyen has undergone bharanyasam and my school-going grandson lives in the same house. Can Vinakaya caturthi be celebrated?

34.

At my in-law’s place everyone are elderly people. As adiyongal are younger in age, we get opportunities to prostrate them. They have not performed prapatti and they have association with demi-gods. What must we do?

During Navarathri golu days, if those of other caste visits our home, can we offer them betel leaf and areca nuts (tAmbUlam)? Likewise can adiyen accept tAmbUlam from Iyer when I visit their house?

Can we visit houses of other castes for occasions of joy and sadness?

Can we conduct Sumangali prarthani for those who have performed prapatti?

Adiyen’s friend is of fourth caste (Kudiyanavan). But she has undergone samashrayanam and works as a clerk at a Perumal temple. I don’t know whether to maintain a relationship with that is in tune with our tradition.

35.a My father-in-law passed away on 5th August. My son’s upanayanam was conducted on 6th July. When is Avani Avittam for him? Should my husband perform Amavasyai tharppanam for one year?

Is Mahalaya paksham applicable for my husband?

Is the Mahapradosham kalam

Before or after sunset?

How many nazhigais is pradosha kalam (minimum nazhigais that must certainly exist) before or after sunset?

Is it appropriate to perform Vishnu aradhanam during Mahapradosham?

During Mahapradosham, while there is a stipulation for Sri Nrisimha aradhanam and avoidance of slokas,

Can Vishnu Sahasranamam be recited? Is this considered to be recited for Vishnu or Nrismhan? As per the commentary of Mukkur Lakshmi Narasimhachar Svami, it is Nrisimhan centric – can we recite Vishnu Sahasranamam?

During the pradosham aradhanam at Sri Nrishmhan sannidhi, can a section of the Vedas, other pasuram-s (Pradosha kala exception being Sri Nrisimhan slokas and pasuram-s) be chanted?

During Mahapradosham,

Can the monthly Shravana recitals be done during the evening?

What is the minimum time after sunset must one do paranai or tadheeyaradhanam?

Can milk be fermented to form curd in a glass vessel and offered to Perumal?

During the 10 days of annual Desika utsavam for Purattasi Shravanam, adiyen will serve prasadam for the participating devotees between 1.30 PM to 3.30 PM. And during this period, there will be morning and evening aradhanams at the temple. Adiyen is confused as adiyen will be missing the afternoon Kalakshepam, Stotra Patham and Divya Prabandham classes. What must adiyen do?

Adiyen – my son is in the USA. His daughter is 2 years old. They will be able to come to India only after 2 more years. That child still needs to undergo ear piercing and tonsuring ceremonies; adiyen feels it is not appropriate to do these after 5 years of age. To solve this dilemma, would it be right to remove a few strands of hair, preserve them in turmeric-smeared cloth, and offer it to our kula deivam, Sholingur Narasimhan, when they visit India next? It is our family practice to tonsure at both Tirupati and Tiruvallur temples. Kindly advise on the course of action to take.

Bad dreams occur now and then for adiyen; these are usually followed by undesirable incidents. What to do to avoid this?

How should one observe Shravana Dwadasi?

To overcome certain types of vitamin deficiencies, a few who are in the sampradayam end up partaking prohibited food such as mushrooms, garlic, etc. Are there any other ways to address vitamin deficiency without including food substances that are prohibited?

Followers of other traditions, invoke Ganapati before starting any homam or puja; in our tradition, who must we invoked for such rituals?

Determination of Shravana Vratam:

Is it possible for the day of occurrence of Shravana nakshatram and the day of fasting for Shravanam to be different? Is it sufficient for the existence of Shravana nakshatram for 12 nazhigai-s from sunrise?

If not, can we observe the fasting the previous day?

For Shravana Dwadasi vratam (Srisannidhi tradition),

Which nakshatram and tithi must be excluded?

Minimum how much nazhigai-s should the nakshtram and tithi association be?

On the day of Shravana Dwadasi:

Can those who do not observe Shravana vratam, do Dwadasi paranai?

Or if paranai is allowed only on Trayodasi, can vrata anushtanam consider Ekadasi as secondary and consider Dwadasi as the primary day?

Are Sri Hayagriva Jayanthi and Sri Vamana Jayanthi celebrated during Avani (Simha maasam) on Shravana nakshatra day?

Adiyen Svami, this is regarding the forthcoming solar eclipse. It is mentioned in the Panchangam that the grahana sparsam (start of eclipse) is at 5 PM and that one is not to partake of food on that day.

If so, should one not partake of food the entire day on the 25th or can one partake in the morning, and partake of food after sunrise the following day?

In the Perumal sannidhi at homes, can we allow the lit lamp to burn throughout the day?

I belong to Tenkalai sect. Are samashrayanam and bharanyasam applicable for us? If they are, can we approach an Acharyan closer to our place for samashrayanam? Or must we go to Srirangam?

During Tiruvaradhanam, how many blades of darbha grass should make the pavithram that we wear?

Can a prapanna (one who has rendered bharanyasam) prostrate those who have not undergone bharanyasam?

I used to indulge in entertainment such as watching Television programs. After bharanyasam, having understood the proper way of utilizing time, have completely renounced them. But the elders and relations at home only talk about entertainment. When they try to talk to me about entertainment, I avoid lying. Will this result in committing an offence against bhagavathas (bhagavatha apacharam)? How should I handle this, not offend them but at the same time avoid talks about entertainment? After completing duties at home, I desire to spend time listening to discourses on Emperuman, listening to 108 Divya Desam vaibhavam, kalakshepam, etc. But others at home do not like adiyen getting involved in such matters at a young age. How do I explain it to them? At times, their talk stresses me mentally.

Every now and then adiyen slips into bad manners. How to avoid this?

We belong Vadakali sect and have all undergone prapatti. The temple at the Divya Desam where we reside follows Tenkalai tradition. During the month of Aippasi in the festivities that take place for 10 days for Manavala Mamunigal Thirunakshatram (Aippasi Mulam), adiyen will participate and render a few services. Is this appropriate?

How does childless couples perform the Shastiabdapurthi (to celebrate 60 years of age)?

Can we offer white Sangupoo (Aparajita/White Butterfly Pea Flower) to Perumal?

At our home, we have Salagrama murthis and photos of Perumal from several Divya Desam-s; but some say that those who have undergone bharanyasam need to worship only Salagrama murthis and photos of acharyas and need not worship other Perumal photos. Is it so? Pray clarify our confusion.

Why must we not have pets such as dogs at homes?

Adiyen’s Acharyan is Srimad Azhagiyashingar. As the head of Mutt, many superior services are rendered unto him. People like adiyen unfortunately are unable to render any significant services for him. This makes us sad. What are different ways that commoners such as ourselves can serve the Acharyan which will please him?

Can the newly purchased cloth until it is washed for the first time be treated as a madi vastram?

Regarding Mahalya Paksham:

Must we prepare the mahalaya paksham shraddha diet during the entire period? Or can we follow the usual (non-Mahalya Paksha) preparations after Mahalya tharppanam (post Madhyashtami)?

Should the married couple take head bath on all the 15 days?

When the pre-cooked food is mixed with salt before being cooked in the lighted stove, is that considered tainted (Patthu)?

When the Sri Vaishnava-s who have performed pancha-samskaaram pray to Perumal to fulfil materialistic needs, can they be accepted as bhagavatas?

Namaskaram. At the place of work, how much ever adiyen is hardworking and sincere, it is not effective. Or adiyen loses job and is forced to hunt for another job. Adiyen is under financial difficulties until adiyen gets a job. Is there any means to follow for remedy?

Will it be an impediment to attain salvation (Moksham) when one commits bhagavata apacharam (offending a bhagavata)? Or will Perumal punish and grant salvation?

If the photos of Perumal and Thayar are separate, must the Thayar photo be placed to the left or right side of Perumal photo? Is there a mandatory requirement as to where Thayar photo should be placed?

Those who go out for work, when they return home after work, must they take a head bath before evening Sandhyavandanam, or will the prokshana mantras of Sandhyavandanam will purify them? Since Ashtakshara mantra is involved, had this doubt.

Can one light lamp at Puja room or go to temple after partaking old left-over food?

Can an Aiyangar boy who has done bharanyasam marry a north India girl of Kshatriya caste? If he does so, can he perform final rites of his father?

It is a continuation of question on Brahma yagyam from the previous issue. What is the speciality of the acamanam of the Brahma yagyam? Why is this done without chanting of mantras?

One can understand that Sandhyavandanam must be done within certain time, and it can be done even before taking a bath. What is the procedure or method to perform Sandhyavandanam without taking bath? What are the details that one must be aware of?

It is said that wearing Urdhva Pundram is equivalent to taking bath; what type of snanam is this? Kindly explain.

In the annual oblations (varshAptiakm), what are the stipulations for bhoktA and kartA?

Adiyen has few queries from GSPK’s series of discourses by Navalpakkam Sri U Ve Kannan Swamy on the greatness of the Vedas (Vedha Mahimai).

Can Srivaishnava-s learn Vedas from Vedic scholars of other tradition or Veda school (Pathasala)?

Must Srivaishnava-s prostrate before Vedic scholars of other traditions? Is it allowed to prostrate them as a Vedic scholar or because they are non-Srivaishnava-s, we just pay respects with an Anjali? What is the practice of our Azhvar-s and Acharya-s?

Which Acharyan must we meditate upon when we recite ‘asmad gurubhyo namaH, asmad parama gurubhy namaH’? Adiyen performed samashrayanam under Srimushnam Periyandavan and bharanyasam under the present Andavan Svami. Hence this query.

If one has offended a bhagavata (bhagavata apacAram), will the resultant sin be removed by atoning through prayschitta prapatti? Moreover, if the bhagavata who was offended has departed for the Eternal Abode (attained Acharya Tiruvadi), how to remove the sin due to an offense committed against that bhagavata?

Can one move house during the month of Purattasi (which involves auspicious activities such boiling of milk as offering prior to moving house)?

In matters related to rituals to ward off evil eyes, what must be the attitude of a Prapanna? Can a prapanna follow practices put in place by elders to ward off evil eyes?

Before rendering prapatti, we used to celebrate Sarasvati puja with Sarasvati idols. After prapatti, we only perform Hayagriva aradhanam alone. What to do with Sarasvati idols?

Though it is not a practice of our household, is it appropriate for women to feed crows?

We follow the practice of lighting maavilakku; but some say that it is sufficient for those who have performed prapatti to offer the dough mix as an offering instead of lighting up the maavilakku, which will be construed as a prayer for a want. Kindly clarify the confusion. It is also said that maavilakku must not be lighted on those Saturdays which fall during a Navarathri Golu period or fall during Mahalaya Paksham or that fall during the Bramhotsavam period at Thirumalai and instead can be lighted during Aippasi Shravanam. Kindly clarify.

Namaskaram; what must be mandatorily shunned after bharanyasam?

Namaskaram – what must be done to protect us and our family from the evil eyes and thoughts of others?

Adiyen resides in Pune. Adiyen underwent bharanyasam through prakrutam Azhagiya Shingar. Sant Gnaneshwar is popular in Pune and his Jiva Samadhi is located here; as he is a Vishnu devotee, can adiyen visit his Jiva Samadhi?

Will offending a bhagavata (bhagavata apacAram) be an obstacle to the attainment of moksham? Or will Emperuman punish suitably and grant moksham?

Adiyen recently witnessed that at a temple of Emperuman, a clan called Ramanuja Kulam reciting Divya Prabandham and one from the goshti chanting Vedas during Emperuman Thirumanjanam; will one’s varnashrama dharma (duties of caste and order) also change after Ramanuja Sambandham?

Have Brahma and Shiva been granted the status of Srivaishnava status in our Srivaishnava tradition?

It is known from the Itihasa-s and Purana-s that they serve Narayana through stotram-s and performing services; if so, why do we not worship them as a servant of a servant?

It looks like they have realized that Narayanan alone is the Supreme Being (Paramatma). Why then do they not make their devotees realize this truth?

On alpa Dwadasi days, must paranai be undertaken only after performing Madhyanikam? (Are there no time restrictions?)

Though in general the Vadakali sect are followers of Svami Desikan, what is the reason of existence Ahobila Mutt and Andavan Ashramam traditions?

Can Vedas be recited during an eclipse?

Can Perumal tirtham be partaken before tharppanam?

Certain questions on eclipse

Does the charity offered during eclipse malefic? Can we accept the offerings gifted by a bhagavata?

If thirumanjanam done during eclipse punya kalam is considered special, why then the temples are kept closed during the eclipse?

We believe the eclipse time to be auspicious (punya kalam); then why do we take bath after the eclipse (shuddhamandala snanam)? Why is eclipse period is considered tainted?

What are the austerities that we need to follow taking vimocana snanam?

Our brhaspati says we should not perform thirumanjanam during Tiruvaradhanam to Salagrama deities on sraddha day; is it appropriate?

What is pitru dosham? Would a prapanna who had performed sharanagati and who does daily rituals without fail need to worry about pitru dosham?

Can we recite pasuram, shlokas during vriddhi theetu (stipulated period after the birth of a child)? What can be done at home without going to the temple for worship? Or shall we just recite shlokas alone without Tiruvaradhanam during that period?

As per the practice of our household, a child is tonsured at Katumavadi Virannak Koil which is followed by offering hair at Tirumalai. As of now, all of us have performed bharanyasam under 46th Azhagiya Shingar. Is it enough that we offer only Tiruvenkatamudaiyan? The vidwan’s has already answered this query of adiyen. But the elders of our house for some reason hesitate to change the tradition followed. How to make them understand?

Adiyen had asked this question in the previous issue of Sudarshanam as well; if an Aiyyangar boy has married a North India Kshatriya bride, can he perform the funeral rites for his parents if they attain Acharyan Tiruvadi?

As adiyen is staying abroad, could not perform the annual sraddha as per the norms due to a lack of facilities. Can adiyen do their sraddha during any month on their shraddham tithi when I visit India or should adiyen perform it during the exact month on their shraddha tithi? Also, adiyen could not come to India on the tithi in which they departed.

What if a sixtieth birthday occurs for a prapanna during Kaisika Ekadasi? Adiyen’s sister-in-law’s grandsons are having upanayana ceremony during Kaisika Ekadasi. As a prapanna we cannot eat the festive food on a Ekadasi day even though we are maternal uncle and aunt. In some weddings, private cooking (maDi thaligai) is prepared for a few family members only, and the guests are served the general preparation which we are unable to avoid. Is there a solution for such situations?

This is a continuation of the query that adiyen had asked last month – The Vidwans said that panchangam is prime most and even when the moon is not visible, the grahana kala tharppanam must be performed accordingly. Is this also applicable to vimocana snanam when we are unable to view the moon due to cloudy skies? For example, on 28 July 2018, the lunar eclipse period was from 3.49 am to 6.21 am. But the moon was not visible in the morning. In case, can we perform vimocana snanam and continue with our daily rituals? Or must we wait until evening when the moon is visible to continue with our daily rituals?

Why does Vadakali sect not celebrate Manavalamamunigal’s Thirunakshatram? Likewise, why does the Tenkalai sect not celebrate Swami Desikan’s Thirunakshatram? Has Manavalamamunigal provided any reference to Swami Desikan in his books? Do we not celebrate Mamunigal as Swami Desikan being our prime preceptor? And is the reason why Tenkalai sect does not celebrate Swami Desikan as Mamunigal is their prime preceptor?

Is the act of dipping or submerging during the Theerthavari Utsavam, equivalent to taking a bath? Must this be performed with snAnashAtI (bathing clothes) and sankalpam?

What is AcAram? Kindly explain.

Adiyen so far has not performed Vaishvadevam as part of a householder duty; From whom should adiyen acquire the necessary knowledge?

We notice that discourses by non-Hindus and non-Brahmins about our tradition are available in YouTube. Is this appropriate? Can we listen to them?

How many counts of Gayatri mantram must be chanted as part of Sandhyavandanam during Pradosham? Is it 10 or 28 times?

It is said that each word in the Vedas have their unique musical note (svara) and at all instances where a said word occurs, the musical note is the same; but at times, for words such as svAhA, bhavati, etc. occurring in the same section or passage (anuvAka), their respective musical note differs; why so? If Vedas have been passed on by a single lineage, why then are there differences in recitations (as an example Andhra pATham, Dravida pATham, etc.)?

At homes, can we recite Tiruviruttham during daily recitations (daily sEvAkAlam) and during Prabandham recitation?

Can Paduka Sahasram be recited in the evenings or at night times? Can Paduka Aradhanam be performed at these times?

Must we do parishESanam for temple mixed rice prasadams such as Pulioyodharai, Pongal when partaking them for lunch or dinner?

Should Perumal Tiruvaradhanam be performed only after performing Madhyanikam?

Can Naalaayira Divya Prabandham be recited at Vishnu temples which does not have idols of Azhvars, Acharyas are not consecrated, or which do not offer shathari?

Are there any shlokas like Ahobila Mutt’s ‘yasyAbhavat…ahobilE’ for Andavan Ashrama disciples?

What are the anusthanam-s that one must follow in the mornings during the month of Margazhi? More specifically, kindly advise what should those who do not perform Perumal Tiruvaradhanam and those who stay in hostels.

What are the rules and yardstick for one to become an upanyasakar? Forgive for asking this – over the last few years, Christians, non-brahmins, women have become upanyasakars and preach the meaning of Rahasyam. It his right?

Can we recite Paduka Sahasram at the temples not run by the Brahmins or with no association with Sriramanuja tradition?

Can a prapanna recite shloka about Raghavendra? Can such a person go to worship at Mantralayam? Can Raghavendra be accepted as a Acharya?

What and how many grains are included in the sokkappAnai (bonfire with palmyra leaves) at houses?

If the Salagrama murthi at home is chipped or split into pieces, can we perform Tiruvaradhanam for that murthi? Or must we replace it with a new Salagrama? Kindly also explain how and where to procure Salagrama murthi.

Why is Upanishad recited during Perumal Thirumanjanam?

For the early morning Tiruvaradhanam during the month of Margazhi, at what time must we gather flowers, Tulasi, etc.? Can they be plucked before sunrise on the same day, or must they be gathered the previous day?

Are there any rules and regulations to recite Divya Prabandham like the Vedas? Sri U.Ve Kannan swami had mentioned the set of codes like being in svarupam, being mindful of anadhyayana kalam, sandhya kalam, asaucam period, etc. that has to be followed for reciting Vedas. Please explain.

How to celebrate Acharya’s Tiruvadhyayanam as per the tradition?

Can we adorn the jewels to Perumal that was worn by us after cleansing it with Tulasi water with intention of not using it again personally?

Certain questions with regards to Tulasi garland offered to Perumal

Can we wear the garland offered to him as his prasadam and perform japa, tharppanam and Tiruvaradhanam?

Should it be worn separately or along with lotus bead garland?

Can it be worn the entire day including alpa shankai time?

Can we wear it during asaucam?

We have bought a new wooden box for Perumal, what is the cleansing process before placing Perumal into it?

How do we conquer desires (greed) and anger (hatred) to constantly keep thinking of Emperuman?

Adiyen’s mother had undergone Bharasamarpanam at the feed of 44th Srimad Azhagiya Shingar. She attained Acharya Tiruvadi a few days ago. Adiyen has done Bharanyasam under the current Srimad Azhagiya Shingar. Adiyen’s regret is the query – what atonements must adiyen do for the sins committed at my mother knowingly and unknowingly? Kindly advise how they must be performed. Will certainly carry out all the required pitru karyams diligently.

How many days before one’s daughter’s marriage can one take part in sraddha ceremony as a participant?

Can we partake Pongal as a light refreshment/tiffin on tharpanam days?

Can we partake Thulasi on the day of Ekadasi fasting?

Who is referred to as kinsmen with 10 days asaucam (PangAlis), who are 3-day dAyAdis? Kindly elaborate.

Some households perform tharpanam for twelve months in addition to ashtaka-anvashtaka tharpanam; some households perform tharpanam only for four months of the year citing they follow the practice of their household elders; please clarify.

Except for Dhanur month, in which other months can we perform Tiruvaradhanam before sunrise? On occasions, if there is a need to visit a temple early in the morning or if there is a need to travel when to perform Tiruvaradhanam? Similarly, on such occasions, when to perform Sandhyavandanam?

Should we do sankalpam mentioning the tithi (date), vAra (day), and nakshatram (star) during Salagrama Tiruvaradhanam?

When should pratha-sandhya be performed before Dhanur month aradhanam?

It is mentioned that two types of fasting to be followed for Ekadasi; one is nirjala upavasam (fasting without partaking water) and the other one is jAgarana upavasam (fasting without sleeping). Does our tradition observe jAgarana fasting and what are the opinions of our Acharya-s and exponents of our tradition regarding this?

Why is it said that conch sound must not be heard in southern India temples? Are there any references in Agama texts regarding this?

One year has not yet been completed after the death of an unmarried person. That rituals such as masyam are performed by accepting kaippul from the mother of the deceased. Before the first year is up, can a Gaya shraddha be performed for that person? Mother is not going to Gaya; can the Gaya shraddha be performed through another relative who is travelling to Gaya?

As part of the performance of Gaya shraddha, we stop partaking certain vegetables, fruits, etc. If the vegetables and fruits that were renounced are included in prasadams given at temples or Mutt, can we partake that prasadam? Or must we not accept them? If we had unknowingly partaken such a prasadam, is there any atonement?

When is Hanumad Jayanthi celebrated? Are there any details on which date or day it is celebrated? Different places celebrate this on different days and months, which leads to confusion on what is the correct time.

While observing Thiruvona vratam, can we partake temple prasadam like salted curd rice and puliyodharai?

Kindly explain the stipulation that prohibits the recitation of Naalaayira Divya Prabandham during the months of Margazhi and Tai after Sri Nammazhvar has started from his place of birth:

Queries related to madi vastram:

Is a wet vastram considered a madi vastram? Or must it be dried completely? If the vastram has not dried completely, can we wear it after shaking the vastram 7 times?

Must the madi vastram be removed from the clothesline with a wooden or bamboo stick or can we remove it with bare hands? Can we hang the clothes dry on a plastic clothesline?

While removing the vastram with a stick if it falls accidentally, is it considered to be impure?

If a vastram that is hung out to dry in sun light over two days (hung out to dry during today’s day time and removed after next day’s sunrise), is it considered a madi vastram? Can we wear that to perform Tiruvaradhanam?

We perform morning sandhyavandanam and Tiruvaradhanam wearing a madi vastram; while going to work, we wear a different set of clothes; after we return home from work, can we wear the same madi vastram that was worn in the morning for evening sandhyavandanam after taking bath?

How the anga-vastram should be worn during partaking parasadam?

A few doubts regarding Madhyanika snanam:

Can the Madhyanika snanam be taken after returning from worshipping Perumal at a temple? (For instance, during Dhanur masa, one might need to go to temple to worship Perumal at dawn).

During the month of Margazhi, we perform the Capa masa Tiruvaradhanam at dawn. After performing this, can we take Madhyanika snanam, perform Iyaaradhanam and submit our offerings?

If a sankramana punya kala tharppanam needs to be performed early in the morning, can we perform Madhyanika snanam and Ijyaaradhanam in the afternoon?

According to the dharma shastras, Abhyanga snanam (oil bath) must be done only after morning bath. Given this, on the day of Deepavali, must we take head bath only after the performance of morning bath and morning sandhyavandanam at dawn?

Must tharppanam and Madhyanikam be performed only after Perumal Tiruvaradhanam?

For Perumal Tiruvaradhanam, must the offerings be available readily? If the offerings have not been prepared yet, kindly explain where in between the Tiruvaradhanam can be paused before continuing.

In the T20 segment of the Sangosthee 2022 program, Sri U Ve Lakshminarasimhacharyar (Balaji) Svami, mentioned that procedures to perform Tiruvaradhanam in 8 minutes has been published by Sri Kozhiyalam Svami; Kindly advise where we can get the said publication.

Can a prapannan contribute or sponsor (ubhaya) for annadhanam on an Ekadasi day?

Can a widow worship Perumal at Srirangam or other Divya Desam-s and participate in utsavams, before the first year oblations are performed for her departed husband? Can she worship and pay her respects to her Acharyan in person? Kindly clarify.

Must Sri Vaishnavas perform Sapta Argha snanam and Bhishma tharppanam on the day of Ratha Saptami? Can ladies touch darbha grass and sacred thread (poonool)?

I think this query is not associated with astrology (Jyotisham); are Naidhruva Kashyapa gothram and Kashyapa gothram the same branch or are they different? Can marriage be arranged for people belonging to these two?

During which months and days is one allowed and not allowed to shave? Kindly explain the types of karmas to be performed on the day when one shaves.

We offer deity of a temple the Thulasi which was purchased from shops near that temple; can the Thulasi that was offered to the temple Perumal be offered the Perumal at home? Can we do this especially on the days plucking of Thulasi is prohibited?

What must we do for Acharya Paduka-s on Dwadasi?

Is Bhagavata Apacharam (offending a devotee) applicable to saints who are not Sri Vaishnava-s?

What must we do with the balance food prepared for a devasham (Pitru Sesham)? Must they be offered to a cow? Or can we partake the following day?

Can we partake temple prasadam the day before shraddha?

Why do the Brahmins avoid including garlic and onions in the food?

We have collected a bagful of the mantra akshatai blessed by our Acharyan. Can we use such akshatai during occasions such as a wedding? Can we use it to prepare prasadam for Perumal?

One of our relatives happen to receive the Padukas of one of our purvacharyas, it could be Sri Ranganatha yati – Tembarai Andavan. Looks like they have not been using that for a long time. What to do with those Padukas?

Can a disciple of one mutt receive tirtha prasadam from pontiff of another mutt?

As shown by our purvacharya-s one can understand that it is very important for one follow and practice one’s prescribed duties. When a advaitin or a one from Madhva sampradayam gets associated with a Sri Vaishnava acharya, how should they go about doing their prescribed duties?

Why do we prostrate 4 times? Why do others prostrate only once?

Is it a sin to offer food to those who fast during Ekadasi? As an example, can we serve food to guests who do not observe fasting during Ekadasi and who visit us at that time?

In these days rituals like aupasana are done minimally; but during the conduct of functions like upanayanam and seemantham, aupasana is being performed at the beginning. Should we do any atonements for not doing aupasana so far?

Sri U Ve Kannan Swami in his Veda Vaibhavam upansyasam mentioned that if someone has travelled by public transport to attend a Veda goshti, they must take bath before participating; but these days one has to use public transport; in that case what can be done?

When did smartha and Vaishnava sampradayam originate? Did Adisankara classify these?

If all happenings are based on their karma, is marrying outside sampradayam also a result of one’s fate? If so, it is possible to change this?

Kindly advise on the sankalpam that one must recite before taking bath at homes. Likewise, kindly advise about the sankalpam that one must perform for taking bath in a pond or rivers such as Kaveri. If there are specific sankalpam for ladies, kindly advise.

Our elders at home have not performed Perumal Tiruvaradhanam for Salagramam; adiyen desires to perform Tiruvaradhanam; where do we get Salagrama Perumal and how to ceremonially invite the Salagrama Perumal at home?

Adiyen had performed samashrayanam immediately after marriage; it is not a practise at our homes to follow austerities but adiyen is desirous of performing bharanyasam and I heard Acharya will not preach mantra during that time. How to receive mantropadesam and what is the method to perform japam?

As adiyen has asaucam for 10 days, can I participate sandhai-s for Prabandham and other shlokas?

An elderly agnate has attained Paramapadam. If the 10th day falls on a Friday, is the sarvanga vapanam done on Thursday or Friday?

Why do we follow birthdays based on star and demise based on the tithi?

What is the importance of shoSanam, dAhanam and plAvanam done as part of Tiruvaradhanam?

Can we travel overseas after Prappatti?

Adiyen is hosting Sundara Kanda parayanam at home for acquiring benefits like job, marriage etc.; what is the sankalpam that one has to take for these benefits?

If brothers reside at different places, is it better to perform the shraddha together or is it alright to perform separately?

Can the brothers perform the shraddha separately or Hiranya shraddha form (for instance, we are overseas and could not come to India during Corona period) and perform together during the next shraddha?

Does our tradition allow angapradakshinam (circumambulation with wet clothes) at temples such as Thirumalai?

Svami Desikan’s Srisukti Sri Nyasa Vimishati talks loftily about sharanagati. In Tenkalai sampradaym, one samashrayanam is available, bharanyasam is not practiced. Why this difference? Are followers of Tenkalai tradition allowed to received bharanyasam? Kindly clarify adiyen’s doubts.

Can we shift house during the month of Panguni?

Why should a husband not shave while the wife is pregnant?

When an untoward incident happens to a distant relative or known people while we are away, on which days should we call upon them to convey our condolences as we are unable to visit them in person?

What do the scriptures state about wearing diamond jewelry? Can one wear diamond studded jewelry or is it considered ostentatious?

Are there any atonements to do when we have conveyed our condolence in person on a Monday?

Can the father-in-law perform Darsha/sankramana shraddha when a daughter-in-law is pregnant?

What is Garbhadhana samskaram and what is its significance?

A few Srivaishnava-s wear red Srichuranam and a few others wear yellow Srichuranam; which is the preferred one and what is the rationale behind this?

Can we accept Thulasi during Ekadasi will it breach the observance?

Can Prapannas visit Mantralayam to worship the jeeva samadhi?

Can rice flour lamps be lit during Malayapaksham?

As Adiyen’s father-in-law passed away, we have been told that we should not visit a temple with dwajastambham, please let me know the reason for this.

When a man of the household is not interested in following the tradition, can the woman of the house offer prasadam to Salagrama Perumal and what else can she do?

Adiyen’s father passed away in December, can adiyen take bath in the rivers?

During the oblation ceremony, if one happens to sit in the positions of Vishve Deva, Vishnu, and Pitru sthanam-s during sapindeekaranam, how many days of asaucam are ascribed for each sthanam? As an atonement, how many times the Gayatri mantram is chanted? Kindly clarify

Does Bhagavati refer to our Thayar or Parvathi Devi? This is related to the goddess Bhagavati in Kerala.

Must sumangali prarthanai be performed before the performance of upanayanam? We have not done this so far. Last year mother-in-law attained moksham as a sumangali, hence this doubt. If yes, what procedures must be followed by Srivaishnava households?

What are the prescribed austerities that are to be followed strictly before and after bharanyasam? As an example, what are the rules about food, travel, etc?

Can we touch the stove and cook during a vriddhi theetu (birth-related asaucam)?

Can a daughter-in-law take an oil bath before the first death anniversary of a father-in-law?

My paternal uncle (Father’s younger brother) had attained the divine feet of Acharya; what are the karmic duties that I have to follow? Am I allowed to worship at kshetrams and hilly Divya Desam? Can I celebrate festivals and render service to Perumal?

Why do we not use thulasi, neem, or lotus bead garlands during japam? What garland should women use during japam?

Is varnashrama due to birth or karma (karma in this birth)? If it is due to karma, can one not become a Brahmin simply by performing the duties of a Brahmin? Are there any statements or text as a basis for this? Kindly clarify.

Are there any stipulations for changing the sacred thread (Yagnopavitam)? For example, must it be worn before partaking food or before Madhyanikam?

Can we include a new Dwaraka Shila along with Salagrama Perumal-s to perform Tiruvaradhanam? Are there any stipulations to be followed like consecrating it, etc.?

At home on Dwadasi day, for Acharya Paduka aradhanam, can we use the same divine bell used during Perumal aradhanam? Or must we use a separate divine bell?

Can we use 2 different divine bells at home?

When an elder brother and a younger brother happen to perform the annual oblation ceremony of a father separately, in whose house must the mother be present? Kindly explain the method to follow.

While the mother is alive, can the Gaya shraddham be performed for the deceased father after the first death anniversary? Can the younger son perform Gaya shraddham before the elder son due to travel conveniences?

We are reconstructing the independent house that we live in as a flat; we have been told there is no need to do gruhapravesam again as it has been done for the house and it is enough that we just perform shanti homam and ritual boiling of milk at the reconstructed house; what is appropriate to follow?

Should we consume agathi keerai only on Dwadasi or shall we partake them on other days as well?

In Munitraya tradition, we observe fasting during occasions like Ekadasi, Shravana Dwadasi, Sri Rama Navami, Sri Narasimha Jayanthi, Srijayanthi and once on the days of eclipses, if the eclipse ends after sunset. The day after such days, should we cook food according to the paranai menu or as per the cooking on normal days?

Adiyen’s mother-in-law attained the divine feet of Perumal 15 days ago; what are the austerities that adiyen and adiyen’s husband should follow?

My daughter and future son-in-law have undergone pancha samskaram and bharanyasam; can we conduct the wedding at other religious halls like Jain Hall, etc.?