Jaipur Dialogues Chandrayaan 3 Landing Site ‘Shiv Shakti’: Science and Spirituality

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Shruti Dasgupta

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The moon landing site of Chandrayaan 3 was named the ‘Shiv Shakti’ point by PM Modi. The name reflects a remarkable fusion of scientific achievement and deep spirituality of all Indians. Thus, this announcement by PM Modi highlights the nation’s unique ability to intertwine its rich cultural concepts with cutting-edge space exploration.

Senior Congress leader Rashid Alvi – How did Modi name the landing point 'ShivShakti', He is not the owner of the moon.

Anchor- But Congress govt also named Chandrayaan-1 landing point as Jawahar point

Rashid Alvi- ISRO is because of Nehru ji, Cannot compare him with any name pic.twitter.com/7XofkbbNY1

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The naming of the Chandrayaan 3’s landing site has sparked loud vocal protests from ‘Sickularists’ and ‘Liberals.’ However, citizens of India strongly support the BJP government’s choice of name. The name ‘Shiv Shakti’ depicts spiritual reverence along with scientific accomplishment. Moreover, the name symbolizes India’s ability to accept the intertwined nature of spirituality and science.

The Concept of ‘Shiv Shakti’

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‘Shiv Shakti’ is the embodiment of the profound spiritual concept that defines the nature of the great cosmos. The term expresses the perception that the universe is sustained by two fundamental forces – Shiva and Shakti. Shiva represents the cosmic male principle of ‘Prusha’. He signifies pure transcendence. Contrarily, Shakti embodies the divine feminine principle of ‘Prakriti.’ She represents the dynamic force driving creation and existence. A unique fusion of the divine masculine and feminine signifies the intricate interplay of creation and preservation of the universe.

The ‘Shiv Shakti’ philosophical concept is represented through several tales and legends from Vedic India. Primarily, this concept is celebrated in Shaivism, Tantric Vidya, and Shakta sects in Hindu Dharma.

However, all Hindus worship Shiva and Shakti individually or together as an ideal couple.
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Often, in Vedic India, the interplay of the masculine and feminine forces in the universe is depicted as a primordial game of dice between Ma Parvati and Lord Shiva. Consequently, most ancient sites of Vedic India have a pictorial representation of this allegorical game of dice between the two forms of cosmic forces. However, the most accurate depiction of the Shiv Shakti concept in Sanatana Dharma is ‘Ardhanarishwar.’

Ardhanarishwar: The Unity of Shiva and Shakti

Shiva Shakti Puja and Homa (Shiv Shakti Yagya)

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Ardhanarishwar is an iconic allegorical representation of the great divine duality of the universe. In Ardhanarishwar, the merger of Shiva and Shakti depicts a union of equality between the two cosmic forces. The Ardhanarishwar form is a half-man and half-woman depiction of the energies of the universe. Its image symbolizes the inseparable union of the two forces. It illustrates that the universe cannot exist without the perfect harmony of both principles.

Ardhanarishvara at Elephanta

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In the ‘Ardhanarishwar’ form, Shiva signifies the unchanging eternity while Shakti represents the ever-evolving dynamic force. This symbolism transcends all religious boundaries. Moreover, it accurately represents the great cosmic balance inherent in all aspects of existence.

‘Shiv Shakti’ on the Moon: A Cosmic Tribute

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The decision to name Chandrayaan 3’s landing site as ‘Shiv Shakti’ echoes India’s reverence for its Vedic roots. Just as Shiva and Shakti are inseparable, the Moon landing site’s name serves as a testament to the integral connection between human exploration and the unending divine cosmos. Thus, this name not only acknowledges India’s scientific prowess but also pays homage to the nation’s spiritual heritage.

India’s approach to space exploration beautifully encapsulates its diverse cultural ethos. The infusion of concepts like ‘Shiv Shakti’ into its scientific achievements reflects the essence of India as a land where spirituality and science coalesce seamlessly. The naming of Chandrayaan 3’s landing site is a testament to India’s deep-rooted belief that the exploration of space and understanding of the divine cosmos are not separate streams. It is a celebration of the unity that underlies all creation. Therefore, the name invites an exploration of the divine within ourselves while the nation explores the great expanse of the universe. The ‘Shiva Shakti’ point on the moon is a symbolic acceptance of the unity of science and spirituality. Thus, its acceptance is part of the diverse threads that make up the vibrant tapestry of India that is undivided by dots.

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