T Ram Sewak

MAMTA IRSHA HARSH VISHAAD

Kakabhushundiji continues to answer Garuda's seventh question on the afflictions of the mind in detail in Shri Ramcharitmanas 7.121. He states:

Mamta .. irshai, harsh . bahutai

"The feeling of possessiveness (mamta) corresponds to the skin condition daad or eczema, envy (irsha) is symbolised by an itch (kandu). Furthermore, joy (harsh) and grief (vishaad) are the ailments corresponding to an excessive swelling of the throat glands. All are part of the torment."

Kakabhushundiji uses the analogy of physiological diseases to symbolise the afflictions of the mind, underscoring how they hinder the spiritual journey of a sadhak/bhakt. The metaphors of skin diseases suggest how deeply rooted and irritating these afflictions are.

Kakabhushundiji compares the mental affliction of mamta to eczema, which represents inner burning and the restless discomfort caused by possessiveness. It is that festering wound that clings and causes pain. Envy (Irsha) is that never-satisfied itch (kandu) representing that restless craving which fuels desire for indulgence and burns inside like a hidden fire, destroying inner tranquillity. These mental afflictions are as deceptive as that scratchy pain which provides false pleasure, leading you to crave more of it. They may seem to be sources of joy, but in truth, they draw us further into the quagmire of Maya.

Finally, the dualities of joy and sorrow are recognised as a toxic emotional burden. This is one of the greatest dualities (dwandwa) of life, and most of our actions (karma) are driven by the desire for pleasure from the sense objects, aiming to satisfy the endless desires of the senses. While fulfilling these desires leads to more craving (greed), their non-fulfilment results in anger. In both cases, the mind is overwhelmed with painful afflictions.

Shri Krishna highlights the importance of transcending these afflictions in Gita 12.13-14. He proclaims that they are dear to HIM, who inter alia are free from envy and possessiveness, and remain even-minded in pleasure and pain!/ DAILY WORLD /

The author is a former electrical Engineer and resides in the Himalayas. He can be occasionally reached at ramam.namami@gmail.com