Noble Mothers: The Key to a Great Nation
It was because Aryamba was a devoted and pious woman, and observed sacred practices that the great world-teacher, Adi Shankaracharya was born to her. For Vivekananda to achieve worldwide renown, his mother’s sacred life was responsible. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was able to preach the sacred doctrine of love to the world and achieve greatness because of his mother’s good qualities.
Gandhi earned the appellation of “Mahatma” (great soul) because of the sacred “Kokila Vratha” observed by his mother. Gandhi’s mother used to observe everyday a vow ritual known as “Kokila Vratha”. As soon as she completed the ritual, she would wait for the call of the Kokila (the Indian cuckoo) to have her breakfast.
Unable to contain her grief, the mother slapped on the cheeks of Gandhi and wailed: “What sin have I committed that such a liar should be born to me! What a great sinner am I to have begotten such a wicked liar as son, Oh Lord!” She shed tears as she spoke. Deeply moved by his mother’s words, Gandhi made a promise to her: “In my life, henceforth, I will not utter falsehood.”
In those days, the mothers used to watch the behaviour of their children and strove to keep them on the right path. Gandhi became a ‘Mahatma’ because of the severe punishment meted out to him by his mother.
Mothers of those days led a pure and pious life, cherishing sacred thoughts, fostering virtues and setting an example to the world. If the mothers are good, there will be no room for bad behaviour by the children. Although parents may appear innocuous like fig fruits, they are responsible for the misbehaviour of their children, like worms inside the fruits.
“Dear son, do not be concerned about worldly education. One should study that which frees him from death. Only spiritual knowledge can lead to immortality. It is enduring. Worldly knowledge is temporary. For earning one’s livelihood, worldly education is necessary. But this education should be acquired only to lead an independent life, with limited desires. Therefore, dear son, while pursuing studies,
embark also on the spiritual quest.”
There have been many mothers in the world who have sought, by their strenuous endeavours, noble thoughts and sacred practices, to bring up their children in the path of righteousness. In the city of Calcutta (now Kolkota), there lived a mother and his son. For the education of the son, the mother made many a sacrifice.
