Chennai: We've been continuously exploring various spiritual and astrological topics. In this regard, renowned spiritual speaker and astrologer Sampath Subramani shared insightful and profound information in an exclusive interview with Aanmeegaglitz, covering Kuladeivam worship, the significance of the pooja room, and the true purpose of temples.
The History of the Pooja Room: A New Perspective! In his interview, Sampath Subramani Ayya highlighted that around 200 years ago, there was no concept of a dedicated pooja room in homes. During that era, every village had a ग्राम देवता (village deity) temple, where people gathered annually for festivals, and at home, they would light lamps in the maadam (niches) for worship. He explained that the festival is an event where the deity visits and gives darshan to devotees who have sought them throughout the year. The primary purpose of temples, he stated, was to unite the villagers, and events like "pulling the temple chariot" emphasize the philosophy that everyone should set aside differences and come together as one.
What is True Devotion? Sampath Subramani Ayya noted that today, the proliferation of pooja rooms in homes is often a manifestation of ego. He asserted that a pooja room is not just a physical space; its significance depends on the maturity of one's mind. True devotion, he explained, is not about wearing religious attire or performing rituals, but about the complete annihilation of the ego ("I"), and it manifests in changes in daily activities such as sleep, food, and speech. He used the analogy, "Just as wearing a uniform doesn't make one a driver without knowing how to drive," similarly, wearing spiritual attire doesn't make one a devotee without maturity and true devotion.
The Importance of Actions: The Law of Karma! Sampath Subramani Ayya strongly emphasized the law of karma: "Whatever actions you perform, you will surely reap their consequences." He quoted Thirumoolar, stating that causing no harm to others is far superior to building thousands of temples. He also recalled Satchidananda Swamy's words: "If your mind is free from deceit, your thoughts themselves are a Yajna Kunda (sacred fire pit)." He warned that performing puja at home after causing pain to others is fruitless, and the sin from hurting someone will undoubtedly come back to you.
Lord Saturn and Spiritual Wisdom: He elucidated the connection between spirituality and Lord Saturn (Shani Bhagavan). Lord Saturn is the karaka (significator) of karma, and he is the one who makes us realize that desires are impermanent, guiding us towards moksha (liberation). He explained that even losses or health issues experienced during the periods of Rahu, Ketu, or Budha (Mercury) can transform into profound experiences and wisdom during Saturn's sub-period (Shani Bhukti). He also noted that individuals born under Poosam, Anusham, and Utthirattathi nakshatras often face trials in early life, such as relationship breakdowns, legal disputes, and depression, through which they gain a deeper understanding of life.
Where to Place the Kuladeivam at Home? After emphasizing the importance of the pooja room, Sampath Subramani Ayya provided suitable directions for placing the Kuladeivam or any deity at home. Generally, he advised that deities can be placed in the north-west (Vayu Moolai - Air Corner) or south-east (Agni Moolai - Fire Corner) directions. He added that while some families may have traditions against keeping Kuladeivam photos at home, these two directions are auspicious for setting up a pooja room according to family customs.
The Sanctity of Lighting a Lamp in the Pooja Room: He stressed that the very essence of a pooja room is a burning lamp. Whether it's a single Kamakshi lamp or multiple oil lamps, the continuous burning of the lamp is highly auspicious and energizes the space, more so than simply displaying grand idols or pictures.
Conclusion: This interview clarified that true spiritual life is not about outward appearances but about inner purity, good intentions, patience, and tolerance. Sampath Subramani Ayya concluded his interview with a profound thought: "If you live without harming anyone, and yet feel disturbed by others, it is merely your imagination. Your brain is God. Your thoughts, like a magnet, attract many things."
