Understanding Yugadharma

“Bro, why do old people keep chanting God’s name? Are they obsessed or something?”

Actually, they’re just following our Yugadharma - and here’s the tea.

Hinduism is a flexible, evolving way of life that adapts to the challenges of each Yuga - large epochs that end in the destruction and recreation of the world.

In the first one, the Satya Yuga, people were naturally truthful and peaceful, so practices like tapas (austerities) and jnana (knowledge) were encouraged for spiritual growth.

As Dvapara and Treta Yugas saw the rise of greed, jealousy, and evil, yagna (rituals) became key in Treta, while bhakti (devotion) emerged in Dvapara.

Now, in Kaliyuga - the age of darkness, when evil peaks - our scriptures suggest two powerful practices to overcome its challenges:

1. Naamasmaran (chanting God’s name): Keeps us focused on higher purpose and reduces greed and lust.

2. Seva & daan (service & charity): Builds humility by serving others selflessly.

Naamasmaran also has another benefit apart from building focus.

Many scriptures, including the Srimad Bhagavad Gita (8.6-8.7), say that at the moment of death, our mind clings to what we’ve practiced most. And if chanting God’s name is what we’ve done regularly, that is what we’ll remember & if that happens, we’re more likely to get moksha or freedom from this material world.

So in conclusion, naamasmaran isn’t just for old people - the earlier & younger you star the better.

The best part is that there’s no rule - Pick the mantra or deity that resonates with you the most - your Ishtadeva - and start today.