Udaipur, September 23: The spiritual programme ‘Apnon Se Apni Baat’, being broadcast on Aastha Channel from the World of Humanity under the guidance of Narayan Seva Sansthan President Prashant Agrawal, concluded on Wednesday with inspiring stories related to Anant Chaturdashi, Pitru Paksha and Nala-Damayanti.
Story of Anant Sutra
During the programme, Agrawal narrated the story of Sushila, daughter of Sumanth Brahmin, and Sage Kaundinya.
Sushila observed the Anant vrat and wore an Anant Sutra with 14 knots. Prosperity began to enter her household after she started observing the vrat. Kaundinya, however, believed that their prosperity was the result of his own hard work. He broke the sacred thread and threw it into the fire.
After this, his prosperity gradually disappeared. Realising his mistake, Kaundinya set out in search of Lord Anant. On the way, he encountered a mango tree, a cow, a bull and two ponds. The Lord explained the connection of these forms with their deeds in previous lives and instructed Kaundinya to observe the Anant vrat for 14 years.
Faith More Important Than Material Wealth
The Pitru Paksha episode conveyed the message that sincerity and devotion are more important than outward wealth while performing Shradh.
The story described a poor Brahmin woman who had no means to perform Shradh for her ancestors. She raised both her hands and sincerely prayed to her ancestors. Accepting her pure devotion, the ancestors expressed that they were satisfied.
The episode highlighted that true faith and sincerity are the greatest offerings to one’s ancestors.
Nala-Damayanti Story
The programme then featured the story of King Nala and Damayanti. After Nala broke the Anant Sutra, he lost his kingdom in gambling under the influence of Kali.
During their exile, circumstances became so difficult that Nala left Damayanti alone. Damayanti began observing the Anant vrat.
Meanwhile, under the influence of the serpent Karkotak, Nala reached Ayodhya in the form of Bahuka. Later, Damayanti used her wisdom to identify Nala, leading to their reunion. Nala subsequently defeated Pushkar again and regained his kingdom.
Agrawal said stories from Indian culture are not merely a remembrance of the past but also provide guidance on conduct and sensitivity in present-day life.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.