Asha Ramesh: Reviving Vedic Traditions in Tumkur

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Born on October 23, 1970, in Hindupur to KA Rajagopal and Vimalamma, Asha Ramesh has become a beacon of Vedic knowledge in Tumkur. A homemaker married to CS Ramesh, and mother to Gagan Chakra, Asha has dedicated her life to preserving and promoting the Yajurveda, one of Hinduism's most sacred texts. Over the years, she has taken Tumkur by storm with her teachings, conducting Veda chanting programs across revered sites like Tirupati, Eganur Temple, Lakshmi Temple in Vellore, and various locations in Bengaluru.

 

Asha's journey into the world of Vedic studies began in her early years. "Since I was born, my house has always been filled with mantras as my parents used to chant regularly," she recalls. Her academic excellence, marked by winning the Best Student Award in 1985, paved the way for her deepening interest in the Vedas. Following her marriage in 1992, her mother-in-law encouraged her to study under Dr. Shridhara Shasthry in Tumkur. "My guru suggested that I teach people in Tumkur, and I started with 20 students. Today, I have 500 students, both online and offline," she proudly shares.

 

Asha's commitment to the Yajurveda extends beyond personal study; she is deeply invested in passing on this ancient knowledge to future generations. "Our culture is being forgotten by the younger generations. They are all busy, and moreover, there is a lack of knowledge," she observes. To address this, Asha has started teaching school

children, ensuring they inculcate values and learn about Dharma from a young age.

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When discussing the significance of rituals and sacrifices mentioned in the Yajurveda, Asha emphasizes the personal spiritual benefits. "In everything, there is something called self-satisfaction. We need to learn and do it ourselves. If we recite Veda mantras for one hour, it is equivalent to one hour of meditation. The sound vibration activates all our nerves," she explains.

However, Asha's journey has not been without challenges. "I have suffered a lot; they say women should not recite Veda mantras. Only some mantras should not be recited by women, but people with lesser knowledge make blanket statements. Later on, they started appreciating me," she reflects. Despite facing resistance, Asha's determination to preserve the Yajurveda has never wavered. She believes that the reluctance she encountered may have stemmed from some men's concerns about their professional standing. "Never listen to what people say. Do what you have to do," she advises.

 

Asha is particularly passionate about the role of women in Vedic traditions. "If someone does not know anything, it is very easy to teach them. People just have to come, and I will teach them," she says, highlighting her inclusive approach to teaching. She stresses the importance of understanding the meaning of the Vedas. "Understanding the meaning of the Veda is very important and very crucial," she adds.

 

Looking towards the future, Asha hopes to inspire the younger generation to embrace Vedic teachings. "I want all the younger generations to learn. They always say that only older people need to sit and learn Vedas and mantras. Let the younger generation learn so that it will pass on to the next generations," she envisions.

 

Asha Ramesh's journey is a testament to her unwavering dedication to the Yajurveda and her passion for teaching. Her efforts to preserve and promote Vedic traditions have earned her several accolades, including being the Woman of the Year in Tumkur in 2007 and serving as the Regional Secretary of the Vasavi Club in Tumkur. Through her tireless work, Asha ensures that the ancient wisdom of the Yajurveda remains relevant and accessible to all, especially the younger generation.

You can connect with Asha Ramesh - 8970008370