How Obstacles Can Become the Path Forward According to Stoic Philosophy

As day gives way to dusk, the atmosphere of Ayodhya's streets gradually shifts from daytime hustle to evening tranquility along the Sarayu River. However, as soon as the sun sets below the horizon, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple appears in a completely new guise. This view makes one realize that lighting can not only dispel darkness but also emphasize historical significance.

Until now, visitors could admire the grandeur of the Ram Mandir in daylight, when sun rays brought life to the carving on the temple's pink sandstone. But the temple now has its own nighttime story, connected with the installation of new permanent architectural lighting. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirath Kesh Trust first shared photos and videos demonstrating the temple's nocturnal majesty.

In these pictures, the Ram Mandir looks not just like a building, but like a divine creation made of light. Every pillar of the temple tells its own story, and every carving reflects centuries of Indian artisanal work. If it is impressive during the day, at night, when golden light falls on these forms, it seems as if the stones themselves begin to speak.

The top of the temple shines noticeably from afar. The entire complex, including the fence, mandapas, columns, steps, and grounds, is enveloped in a light that does not blind but encourages one to stop and examine the details. The main feature of this lighting system is not simply to illuminate the temple, but to highlight its architectural features, allowing every carving, every line, and every element to manifest in all its majesty.

Pilgrims arriving at the temple premises at night are often amazed by what they see. Before them is the very Ram Mandir they saw in photographs, but the lighting gives it an entirely different dimension. Some take out their phones to take pictures, others take selfies with family, and many simply stand, contemplating the temple in silence. There are also those who prefer to leave their cameras in their pockets, believing that some sights are meant only for perception by the eyes and the heart.

Besides pilgrims from various states across the country, this sight also attracts international tourists who capture this scene on their cameras. These photos and videos are gaining popularity on social media. The temple trust designed this permanent architectural lighting so that every element of the temple is clearly visible, without creating a sense of artificial glare, fully revealing the architectural grandeur.

Since the construction of the Ram Mandir, the appearance of Ayodhya has been constantly transforming: new roads, jetties, railway stations, airports, and pilgrim amenities have appeared, and now, nighttime lighting. Thanks to this new system, the nightscape of Ayodhya has also changed. This new nocturnal beauty of the Ram Mandir acquires its own uniqueness. Here, before reverence manifests, there is respect; even if someone has a mobile phone in hand, their gaze is fixed on the temple. Some record videos, but the sound on their lips is 'Jai Shri Ram'. This combination of modern technology and eternal faith may make Ayodhya even more special.

Visitors to Ayodhya are now advised: if you want to see the Ram Mandir, do not limit yourself to only the day—be sure to wait for nightfall. Because after sunset, not only light but also faith ignites here, shining in new colors.

Our Puranas describe what a ruler should be like to care for their people. The ruler must ensure the population is protected from corruption and rising prices. This article examines the principles that the head of state should follow and the system he should establish. A ruler who follows the rules laid out in the Matsya Purana makes his country prosperous and strong.

According to the Matsya Purana, the concepts of Rajadharma (the duty of the ruler) and Rajkarta (governmental responsibilities) are considered extremely important in the system of governance. These principles cover not only caring for subjects and charity but also contain practical knowledge about state management. Although the modern era is scientific, and warfare methods have changed, giving way to missiles, fighters, and ballistic rockets, some ancient theories remain relevant.

In ancient times, the existence of the state depended entirely on the monarch; any threat to the ruler could lead to the collapse of the entire system. Therefore, the ruler must always maintain vigilance regarding his own safety.

Physical Security

The Matsya Purana instructs the ruler to behave constantly cautiously and suspiciously, like a crow. Before using anything—food, clothing, jewelry, or anything else—it should be thoroughly checked. It is also recommended to avoid crowded places and not stop or bathe in unfamiliar locations. Any items or places must be inspected through trusted individuals.

The ruler should not use unfamiliar elephants, horses, or any unknown means of transportation of the modern age. Furthermore, the importance of distancing oneself from strangers, especially suspicious contacts, is emphasized. Before trusting any information, it should be verified through multiple sources.

History has examples where rulers attached people resembling themselves for personal security. For instance, the German dictator Hitler also used such a measure. In Indian history, during the Battle of Haldighat, heroes resembling Maharaja Pratap, such as Jalkari or Jala Man Singh, sacrificed themselves to protect his life.

Military Security

In ancient times, forts and fortifications were built to protect the state. Today, these functions are performed by residential complexes with high-tech protection, equipped with secret passages, helicopter pads, and situation centers. Previously, soldier selection was based on their intelligence, bravery, and loyalty. They received complex training, which continues in modern form. Today, all three branches of the military—land, air, and naval—undergo specialized training.

Medical Care and Security System

In ancient times, Vaidyas (doctors) were appointed for soldiers, who treated them with herbs. Today, modern hospitals, medicines, and medical services are available. Where shields and armor were once used, bulletproof vests and advanced equipment are now employed.

The Matsya Purana insists on the critical importance of having a strong intelligence network. Spies must be loyal and competent. Ancient texts also mentioned Vishiknyas (female assassins) who secretly eliminated enemies. Even today, every country relies on its intelligence services to ensure security.

Selection of Ministers and Staff

According to the Matsya Purana, the ruler must select his ministers based on their knowledge and abilities. It concludes that if the ruler entrusts duties to capable people and governs according to Dharma, the state becomes prosperous and safe. Thus, the message of the Matsya Purana is that a successful ruler is one who gives the people not fear, but security; not plunder, but justice. He must consider service his duty, not power. It is this kind of leadership that makes a state truly prosperous and oriented towards public welfare.

The sacred month of Shravan has begun and will last until August 28th. According to religious beliefs, this entire period is considered the most auspicious time for worship and asceticism in honor of Lord Shiva. Astrologer Shailendra Pandey notes that it was during this month that Shiva drank the poisonous Halahala poison, which appeared during the churning of the ocean. To calm the heat of the poison, the gods offered him water, and since then, the tradition of bathing the Shiva Lingam with water during Shravan has been established.

Although many other divine items are offered to the Shiva Lingam during this holy month, using some of them is believed to bring prosperity and improve a person's destiny. It is recommended to observe a fast every Monday of Shravan; if this is not possible, one should visit the temple of Lord Shiva and be sure to offer a pot of water and Belatra leaves to the Shiva Lingam.

There is a belief that daily bathing of the Shiva Lingam with water and Belatra leads to achieving desired results. Milk can be used instead of water, but when offering milk, brass pots or vessels should be avoided. After bathing the Shiva Lingam with water or milk and offering Belatra, one must recite the Shiva Panchakshara Stotra.

Furthermore, during Shravan, rituals of bathing Shiva using sandalwood, honey, yogurt, ghee, and Panchamrita can be performed. Lord Shiva also likes melon, bhang, ak flowers, and ash, and one should not forget to adorn the Shiva Lingam with these items.

Astrologers believe that the month of Shravan falls within the Chaturmas period, during which Lord Shiva governs the world. Therefore, every inhabitant of Earth should worship Lord Shiva. Special attention to worship should be paid by people who have health or life expectancy problems indicated in their natal charts, as well as those planning marriage. Methods for appeasing Shani and eliminating various planetary defects are also considered particularly auspicious during Shravan.

It is also advised to exercise special caution regarding diet during Shravan. It is recommended to avoid leafy greens, i.e., saga. It is also advised to consume fewer raw fruits and vegetables. One should eat well-cooked food and regularly drink warm water to protect against health problems caused by weather conditions.