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Welcome back, dear listeners, to episode 36 of our podcast! This is your host Baskar Sundaram, and today, we're diving into a deeply personal and meaningful topic close to my heart - the majestic Sun, its spiritual symbolism in Buddhism, and its deep-rooted resonance in Tamil culture and my personal journey.

You may know that my name, Baskar, translates to 'the Sun' in Tamil. The sun, a life-giving force, is the ever-glowing source of all light, warmth, and energy. It's an emblem of enlightenment and growth that resonates deeply in various philosophies and cultures, including Buddhism and my own Tamil heritage.

In the realm of Buddhism, the sun symbolizes enlightenment and the illumination of the mind, lighting the path to Nirvana, liberating us from the cycle of existence. Buddha once said, "Just as a candle cannot burn without fire, men cannot live without a spiritual life." Isn't the sun that very fire, that spiritual life that fuels our existence?

Allow me to share a compelling story about Buddha and an angry man who spat on his face. Unfazed, Buddha wiped it off without anger, asking, \\u201cWhat next? What do you want to say now?\\u201d The man was left speechless. Buddha's response was like the Sun - unaffected and resilient. The angry man's actions only reflected back on him, much like when you spit towards the Sun. This powerful tale of resilience aligns perfectly with a Tamil proverb about the sun, translating to "If a man tries to cover the sun, he would only stand in his own shadow." It's a profound reminder that truth and light will always find their way to shine through, just like the sun.

As the sun doesn't cease to shine even when veiled by clouds, individuals of strong character continue to uphold their principles amid adversity. They remain resilient, their inner light illuminating the path for others. I strongly believe that some people radiate positivity, optimism, and strength just like the Sun - undeterred even in the face of adversities.

And much like the Sun nurtures life on Earth, we, as individuals, should consider it our duty to nurture, guide, and support those around us, sharing our light and warmth with the world.\\xa0

In the spirit of Buddha, let's strive to be like the Sun - a beacon of light guiding others, remaining resilient in adversity, and always pursuing enlightenment. Remember, "Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth."\\xa0

My beloved grandmother, a beacon of wisdom in our family and community, predicted that I would carry the energy of the Sun, bringing light and warmth to the world. My parents, deeply moved by her words, named me Baskar. They hoped that I would embody the sun's resilience, warmth, and illumination, becoming a source of light in the lives of those around me.

In Tamil tradition, the sun is more than a celestial body. It symbolizes life, illumination, endurance, and hope - the tireless spirit that rises even after the darkest night.

Thank you for embarking on this illuminating journey with me today. Remember, embody the Sun's spirit, share your warmth and light, and continue to shine bright, irrespective of the clouds in your path. And for anyone attempting to obscure the light of the Sun, remember the Tamil proverb - you only stand in your own shadow.\\xa0

Stay tuned for our next episode. Until then, let's keep shining like the sun.