How many of us have heard that there is a lot to learn and imbibe from Ramayana? Are we not missing those bedtime stories, told and retold by our grandparents and parents, which added “rich values” to our lives and “enriched” our thoughts? Yes! Most of us started feeling this lack. It will be felt even more in times to come. To fill this gap and to present life and skills through the lens of Ramayana in the most methodical approach, Srirama Chakradhar has come up with Thavaasmi: A journey towards completeness. Thavaasmi is born after 7+ years of his extensive research on Ramayana. Thavaasmi is the first of its kind practical guide and pedagogical model in the entire World, which aims to make a human out of man.
The author’s another brainchild, “The Wheel of Life” is aimed at bringing in regimental approach towards time management and skill acquisition in the young minds right from their early days. Being the architect of “Mission Live and Lead Life” and “Ayushmanbhava” initiatives, he transformed the lives of many with his simple, yet deep, and strong methodical techniques towards life. He strongly believes that service and spirituality are two sides of the same coin. A passionate teacher and a personality development trainer by choice, Srirama believes in addressing the roots than on ephemeral cosmetic solutions. Thavaasmi is the result of his “If not now, when? If not you, who?” approach towards life.
Interview with Author Rallabandi Srirama Chakradhar
The Literature Times: What inspired you to delve into the teachings of the Ramayana and create Thavaasmi?
Author: Thavaasmi originates from a deep understanding of human challenges rooted in consciousness. Inspired by teachings from revered scriptures like the Sri Valmiki Ramayana and the Srimad Bhagavadgeetha, we set out to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern life. Recognizing a palpable void in the educational landscape, with no dedicated pedagogical framework to integrate these teachings into daily life, Thavaasmi was born as a transformative guide. It aims to sculpt individuals into embodiments of humanity, drawing inspiration from the noble virtues exemplified by Sri Rama. The timeless saga of Sri Rama serves as a guiding light, offering profound insights that resonate within us. Beyond being a mere book, Thavaasmi embodies the enduring power of wisdom, capable of transforming individuals and communities alike.
The Literature Times: Can you share some insights into your seven-plus years of research on the Ramayana and how it influenced the content of Thavaasmi?
Author: Our journey into the depths of the Ramayana was like setting sail on a voyage of discovery, guided by ancient wisdom and timeless tales. What began as a short project turned into a seven-year odyssey of revelation. Initially drawn by cinematic portrayals, we were captivated by the Ramayana’s complexity. Beneath its popular image lay untold truths, waiting to be unearthed. Every verse by Valmiki bore deep contemplation. We aimed not to retell the story but to reveal its essence, peeling back layers of distortion. Our exploration traversed the Ramayana’s teachings, uncovering mysteries. Challenges arose, but our devotion strengthened yearly.
With the grace of Srirama himself, Thavaasmi was unveiled to the world by the then esteemed Vice President of India, Sriman M Venkaiah Naidu ji, on November 6th, 2020. His endorsement bestowed upon us a sense of humility and responsibility, inspiring us to continue our quest for knowledge and enlightenment. Our love affair with the Ramayana continues unabated, an enduring testament to the transformative power of ancient wisdom. As we embark on new horizons, we remain steadfast in our dedication to making the treasures of the Ramayana accessible to all, ensuring that its timeless teachings endure for generations to come.
The Literature Times: How do you envision Thavaasmi impacting readers, particularly in terms of personal growth and character development?
Author: Rooted in a holistic understanding of human existence, Thavaasmi embodies years of dedicated research in the esteemed tradition of the 5W1H format – a thorough analysis seeking enlightenment. Every aspect of the Ramayana, from its situations to its personalities, undergoes deep introspection. Through probing questions such as:
What is the virtue?
Why is it important?
When did Rama show it?
Who else praised it?
How can we embrace it?
Where are the challenges, and how do we overcome?
Thavaasmi recognizes that personal growth and character development are achievable goals. Presenting Sri Rama’s virtues as essential skills for success, it offers a roadmap to excellence in all aspects of life. Through the artful device of a father-daughter dialogue, readers are invited into a world where questions are welcomed, doubts are addressed, and wisdom is imparted with the warmth and authenticity of familial love. In this nurturing environment, readers are empowered to embark on their own journey of self-discovery, armed with the tools and insights needed to navigate the challenges of life with grace and resilience.
With a global reach touching over 16,000 lives, Thavaasmi’s transformative wisdom resonates universally. It is revered in academia, where it enriches educational curricula, and in the corporate world, where it fosters organizational growth through workshops. Thavaasmi’s journey continues to inspire and enlighten, shaping hearts and minds for generations to come.
The Literature Times: Could you elaborate on the concept of “The Wheel of Life” and its role in shaping young minds for effective time management and skill acquisition?
Author: “The Wheel of Life” fosters holistic growth and personal development through incremental learning and consistent self-improvement. Comprising a knowledge component and a time component, it transcends traditional pedagogy.
In the realm of knowledge, young minds are invited to embark on a journey of discovery, exploring a treasure trove of fun facts, puzzles, words, and current affairs that ignite the flames of curiosity within them. Through the stories of great personalities and the timeless wisdom of ancient mathematics, we provide a tapestry of inspiration, empowering students to unlock their full potential and reach for the stars.
But “The Wheel of Life” does not stop there. It beckons us to peer into the depths of time itself, urging us to ponder the way we spend each precious moment of our existence. Drawing upon the timeless wisdom of the Eisenhower Time Matrix, we invite students to dissect their daily routines, categorizing activities into academic pursuits, non-academic endeavors, moments of relaxation, and the sneaky acts of distraction.
Empowered by self-awareness and positive habits, students chart their course toward personal growth. “The Wheel of Life” is more than a tool; it’s a gateway to transformation, guiding young minds toward their true potential.
The Literature Times: What motivated you to initiate “Mission Live and Lead Life” and “Ayushmanbhava,” and how have these initiatives impacted individuals’ lives?
Author: In our mosaic of efforts, “Mission Live and Lead Life” and “Ayushmanbhava” shine as beacons of compassion and service, born from a deep desire to uplift and empower those in need. “Ayushmanbhava” emerged from our experiences with Thavaasmi, where we witnessed struggles and aspirations, inspiring us to create a platform for solidarity and support.
Through “Ayushmanbhava,” we bridged gaps of need, rallying support for various causes from our network. From distributing school kits to healthcare support during the Covid lockdown, we aimed to touch neglected lives and offer hope in times of despair.
“Mission Live and Lead Life” began as a sanctuary for homemakers, now offering tailored training to diverse groups under Thavaasmi Academy. With customized programs, we empower individuals to navigate life with confidence and purpose, reflecting our belief in the transformative power of compassion.
The Literature Times: How do you balance your roles as a teacher, personality development trainer, and author, and how do they complement each other in your mission?
Author: In life’s intricate dance, the roles of teacher, personality development trainer, and author intertwine seamlessly, each enhancing the other in a symphony of inspiration and transformation. As an author, I have the privilege of shaping hearts and minds through written wisdom, leaving an indelible mark on readers’ consciousness. Every day in the classroom, I craft narratives of countless lives, molding futures one student at a time.
As a personality development trainer, I guide individuals on a journey of self-discovery and growth, becoming an architect of character. In this tapestry of roles, I find both challenge and fulfillment, contributing to the greater mission of enlightenment and empowerment. Whether as a teacher, trainer, or author, my goal remains the same: to construct a better world, one soul at a time. Ultimately, it’s not the titles or roles that define us, but the impact we make and the legacy we leave behind. As I navigate life’s labyrinth, I’m reminded that we’re all authors of our destinies, each penning a unique chapter in humanity’s story.
The Literature Times: In what ways do you believe service and spirituality are interconnected, and how do these concepts resonate in Thavaasmi?
Author: What a profound word you’ve chosen: resonate! Indeed, spirituality and service harmonize deeply. Spirituality, with its enlightenment and awakening, guides us toward recognizing the Divine within ourselves and all around us. Thavaasmi’s sacred pages echo this truth through timeless teachings, inviting readers on a journey of self-discovery, empathy, and love.
Spirituality’s essence calls us to serve, extending compassion and solidarity to those in need. Service, stemming from empathy and compassion, becomes spirituality in action, honoring the unity in diversity. In Thavaasmi’s radiant tapestry, spirituality and service intertwine, inspiring readers to embrace their divine nature and walk the path of selfless service with grace.
The Literature Times: What do you hope readers will take away from Thavaasmi, and how do you envision it contributing to their understanding of life and skills through the lens of the Ramayana?
Author: The common value additions from Thavaasmi are profound and transformative:
- Thavaasmi instills reverence for core values like love for the motherland, adherence to moral principles, respect for culture and tradition, and pride in one’s heritage. It inspires readers to cherish and uphold these principles while embracing diversity.
- Rooted in the values of the Ramayana, Thavaasmi guides readers towards resilience and compassion, essential virtues for navigating life’s challenges.
- Readers discover that resilience shapes character, while compassion elevates humanity, fostering personal growth and societal harmony.
- Thavaasmi celebrates questioning as the foundation of learning, inviting readers to explore and reflect through its conversational format, fostering self-discovery and enlightenment.
- More than a book, Thavaasmi becomes a lifelong companion, offering guidance and support through life’s journey, leaving an indelible imprint on the soul.
Order Book: https://www.amazon.in/Thavaasmi-Vol-1-through-Ramayana-ebook/dp/B091TQPCRD