Vedic literature is the foundation of Sanātana Dharma. The term ‘Veda’ is derived from the root ‘Vid’, meaning ‘to know’. This root gives rise to the meaning of ‘Veda’, i.e., ‘Knowledge’. This vast knowledge outlines the way of life and has continually and successfully contributed to attaining the highest goal of salvation through righteous teachings. To walk this path, the Vedas have laid out the four human pursuits: Dharma, Artha, Kāma, and Moksha. We all understand that on the firm foundation of Dharma, we must achieve Artha, Kāma, and ultimately, Moksha.
The concept of Dharma is elaborated upon in the Shrutis, Smritis, and various Purāṇas. To grasp such profound spiritual knowledge, an understanding of the Vedas is essential.
The path of Dharma, as propounded at the commencement of the Vedas, is presented in various ways in order to make it accessible to the common man through different Śāstras, historical texts, and Purāṇas.
Just as when sugarcane fields are irrigated, the grass and creepers receive water as well, likewise, when we consistently practise Dharma, Artha, Kāma, and Moksha also follow. It is our foremost duty as followers of Vedic Dharma. By the power of the penance undertaken by our ancestors, sages, and sacred saints, we have received the boon of the Vedas.
In this Kaliyuga, to aid the understanding of Brahmins and based on the foundation of mantras, the great sage Śri Veda Vyāsa divided the Vedas into four: Rig, Yajur, Sāma, and Atharva Veda.Each Veda was further classified into specific branches: the Rigveda into 21, the Yajurveda into 101, the Sāmaveda into 1,000, and the Atharvaveda into 9. Sadly, we have forgotten the tradition of studying the Vedas according to their branches, resulting in the loss of this vast and rich knowledge. In the current tradition, Pārāyaṇa continues from 2 Rigveda branches, 5 Yajurveda branches, 3 Sāmaveda branches, and 2 Atharvaveda branches.
To protect Dharma and preserve this immense spiritual wealth, many noble individuals have made commendable contributions in various ways. In continuation of their efforts, with the guidance of our elders and the blessings of Vedamātā Gāyatrī Devi, an organisation named Gayathri Veda Parayana Charitable Trust (R) has been established.
We are dedicated to performing several noble deeds associated with the Vedas, Śāstras, Saṃskṛta (Sanskrit), and Dharma, which are beneficial to society. We have been blessed with the opportunity to serve this cause, and the Trust has successfully executed numerous religious and social initiatives. Notable among them are:
- Protection of the Vedas and performance of Veda Pārāyaṇa
- Providing financial assistance to students studying the Vedas and/or the Sanskrit language
- Organising Veda and Sanskrit camps
- Organising Śrauta Yāgas
- Hosting Veda and Śāstra Vidvat Goshtis (Conferences) for scholarly vidvaans
- Establishment of Veda Pāṭhaśālās and Gośālās
- Conducting Vedic programmes and honouring eminent scholars
- Providing financial assistance to underprivileged Brahmins
- Engaging in various social welfare activities and community service programmes
As mentioned above, we are committed to implementing many righteous and religious activities. We also welcome suggestions from our elders and well-wishers. We humbly invite like-minded, religiously tolerant individuals to join hands with us—by offering their time, effort, and resources, as per their capacity.
In this noble endeavour, special focus has been given to Vedic and Dhārmic programmes. With the continued support of devoted individuals, Vedic scholars, elders, and students, and through the divine blessings of Vedamātā, Veda Nārāyaṇa, Bhagavān Śri Veda Vyāsa, and Ādi Śankarāchārya, we are confident in the success of our mission.
We humbly pray to Vedamātā Gāyatrī Devi to bless and protect us always.