I remember many many
years back, my husband came home after participating in group Upakarma and
shared a delightful tale the Vaadhyaar had shared. Long long ago, far far away,
in the times of Maharishi Ved Vyasa, who travelled the length and breadth of
the region, (mainly travelled along the Ganges) and taught many students in the
settlements all along the river. Much like a visiting Professor, he would
travel each year, impart the wisdom and meet all his students. Then one year, he
decided to have all of them congregate in one location on the Full moon day in
the month of Shravan and conducted a grand ceremony for all his students to
mark their graduation in Vedic studies. They all performed the Upakarma together,
renewed their vow and thus began the tradition of holding an annual Convocation of sorts, which is practiced to
this day.
I remember Swamy came
home feeling very proud to be following a practice that was established by
Maharishi Ved Vyasa Himself.
Isnt it amazing that
our practices are so ancient and such little stories shared on occasions like
these can kindle so much wonder and amazement in our minds, particularly young
children who may take to further reading on this subject. The little story per
se may have different versions, but does its job of keeping the traditions
alive.
