Author: Priyanka Murarka

Chartered Accountant I Company Secretary I Personal blogger I Mudra Therapist I Wellness & Transformational Healing Coach I Spiritual Seeker

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Quotes

From Fate to Destiny: Embrace Your Journey

“Fate is a misconception. It’s merely a cover-up for the fact that you don’t have control over your own life.” – Priyanka Murarka

For a long time, this belief shaped my outlook on life. It made me feel that life was happening to me, leaving me at the mercy of circumstances beyond my control. At that stage, I felt that “fate” was a way to explain the unpredictable events that came my way.

But as I’ve grown and reflected, my understanding has evolved. Today, my belief has shifted, and I now stand by a new mantra: “You create your destiny.” – Priyanka Murarka.

It’s a simple but powerful realization that life doesn’t just happen to us—we actively shape it. This shift from “fate” to “destiny” isn’t just a change in words; it’s a transformation in perspective. And I’ve realized I’m not alone in this journey. Many of us move through life, grappling with questions about our purpose, control, and growth. Here’s what I’ve learned through this evolution, and some ideas to support you wherever you are on your path.

1. Embracing Self-Belief Over Destiny

Our lives are filled with choices, big and small, that shape our path. Each decision, effort, and even setback is a line in the story we are writing. Rather than waiting for life to reveal itself, embracing the belief that you create your destiny allows you to step into a place of empowerment.

Self-belief is foundational here. Whether it’s a career change, a personal challenge, or an ambitious goal, knowing that you have the power to steer your path can be transformative. You’re not just a bystander—you’re the author.

2. Adaptability as a Strength

Life will present new challenges, shifts, and even unexpected events, but our ability to adapt can be our greatest strength. Staying open-minded and embracing the journey can turn what feels like obstacles into valuable lessons.

This adaptability is key to personal growth and professional success. Change is a constant for leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals at every stage. But our openness to learn and evolve sets us apart and drives us forward.

3. The Power of Reflection and Realignment

Every so often, we need to pause and reflect on where we are, where we’re headed, and whether our actions align with our core values. This reflection not only helps clarify our path but also reaffirms our purpose.

Realignment is a powerful tool for personal and professional development. As we grow, our goals, values, and desires may shift. Embracing these shifts helps us live with intention, constantly aligning our lives with who we are becoming.

From Fate to Destiny: Growth is a journey

My journey from believing in fate to creating my own destiny has been marked by moments of self-discovery, challenges, and a willingness to evolve. I believe this is a journey many of us share. We start with one perspective, but life has a way of teaching us that growth is a journey, not a destination. Wherever you are in your journey—just starting, navigating change, or seeking purpose—embrace the evolution. Stay open, trust in your ability to adapt, and remember: you are the author of your story.

What does creating your destiny look like to you? Feel free to share your journey in the comments. Let’s inspire and evolve together.

This journey of evolving beliefs isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. We may begin with one perspective, but life teaches us that the greatest growth happens when we allow ourselves to change. Let’s embrace our power, our adaptability, and our evolving selves.

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Quotes

Life Happens for You, Not to You: Transform Your Perspective

Reflect on how we perceive life’s events. Instead of viewing challenges and experiences as things that merely happen to us, we can embrace the idea that they happen for us — shaping our growth, learning, and journey. By shifting our mindset, we unlock the potential to find purpose in every situation. Read on for insights into adopting this empowering perspective and how it can transform your outlook on life.

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Eternal Love: A Mother's Legacy

Whispers of the Divine: A Mother’s Love Across Realms

They say you embarked on a new journey to a heavenly abode, but to me, you have always transcended human form, even while you walked this earth. Your extraordinary ability to read my mind and see into my heart was a rare gift. Despite the generational divide, you understood me in ways that no one else ever could. It felt as though you lived in my soul, grasping every nuance and detail far beyond what those my age could ever comprehend.

Your prayers and boundless love—both maternal and divine—made the impossible possible. They shaped my very belief system, instilling in me a faith that continues to guide me today. When life overwhelmed me, simply placing my head beneath your veil wiped away my pain, allowing me to find solace in your presence. You were my refuge.

Like the nurturing arms of Mother Nature, you allowed me to thrive under your care. Even when I faltered or neglected my responsibilities, much like how we often take our planet for granted, you forgave me without hesitation. You continued to give, as only a mother could. I slept in your protection and awakened each day wrapped in the warmth of your love. Not a single moment passes without feeling your protective shield around me—in every breath I take and every stirring of my heart. The sheer ehsaas of you lingers in the air, reminding me of the goddess you always were.

Worshipping Ma Durga brings me back to you—the way your love, care, and blessings empowered me to face my inner demons. It was your nurturing spirit that helped me conquer my shortcomings, allowing me to focus on the strength you always recognized in me.

When I invoke Ma Laxmi, I remember the abundance you blessed me with—not just in material wealth, but in spiritual prosperity and self-knowledge, guiding me toward liberation. You opened my eyes to the riches within, treasures I carry with me every day.

And then there’s Ma Saraswati—she brings back the peace I felt in your presence, the serenity found in the safety of your veil. You awakened a power in me that I didn’t know I possessed, the limitless potential that fuels my journey.

Ma Saraswati also reminds me of that bittersweet moment when the world outside bid farewell to her idol while I was bidding farewell to you, as you left this realm during your cremation ceremony.

It wasn’t mere coincidence; life has no random acts. There was a deeper synchronicity at play, as if the universe mirrored my grief, reminding me that just like the goddess you were, you will always be a part of me.

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched—they must be felt with the heart.” – Helen Keller

You are my eternal guide, my divine mother, and in every breath, I carry your essence with me, forever intertwined.

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Healing and Spirituality

Unlock the Power of Gratitude: Simple Daily Habit for Better Well-being

As you start your day, take a moment to express gratitude for the simple gift of a new morning. Did you know you would wake up today? It’s a beautiful reminder of the uncertainty of life. Reflect on your breath—each inhale and exhale is a vital connection to the world around you. Have you ever paused to appreciate the air filling your lungs?

When your feet hit the ground, give thanks to Mother Earth. She supports not just your body but also carries the weight of humanity’s actions—our waste, pollution, and exploitation of natural resources. Consider the impact of global warming and the responsibility we share in nurturing our planet.

Think about the food you consume. Countless people contribute to its journey—from farmers tending their fields to those processing and transporting it. Every spice and ingredient reflects a tapestry of labor and love. It’s a miracle that every meal represents the efforts of many souls.

Could you go a day without water? Most of us can’t fathom even a few hours without it. Reflect on how often you express gratitude for this essential element. Water sustains life, yet we often take it for granted. Acknowledge its role in your daily existence.

Four Pillars of Life

As you navigate through the hustle and bustle of life, remember the four areas where gratitude can transform your experience:

  1. Physical Health: Appreciate your body and the health you have. Consider how you can nurture it further.
  2. Mental Health: Acknowledge your thoughts and emotions. Practice mindfulness and self-care to enhance your mental well-being.
  3. Wealth: Reflect on your relationship with money. Be grateful for what you have, and think about how you can use your resources wisely.
  4. Relationships: Cherish your connections with yourself, family, friends, and even strangers. Foster kindness and understanding in all your interactions.

Take time each day to dive deep into gratitude. Identify specific elements in your life—big or small—that deserve acknowledgment. This practice can enrich your experience, cultivate joy, and foster a deeper connection with the world around you.

By embracing gratitude, you not only improve your own life but also contribute to a more compassionate and aware community. Start today, and let gratitude transform your perspective.

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Eternal Love: A Mother's Legacy

Adversity to Triumph : Mother’s Enduring Love

As I reflect on my life and the profound impact my mother had on it, I am overwhelmed by a mix of grief, gratitude, and awe. Today, I want to share a story that’s etched deeply in my heart—one that speaks of resilience, sacrifice, and an enduring bond that defied all odds.

On my very first birthday, my mother was in the hospital undergoing a crucial operation. Despite her own suffering and the uncertain future, she ensured that I wore a new dress for my special day. It wasn’t just a dress—it was a symbol of her undying love and her refusal to let her own trials overshadow my joy. Given the circumstances, she understood there might be no one else to celebrate my birthday at home. It was a gesture of hope and defiance against the adversity that surrounded us.

From the moment I came into this world, my mother’s life was marked by hardships. My grandmother had initially rejected me because I was not the grandson she had hoped for. Such rejection could have been a blow to anyone’s spirit, but my mother faced it with an unbreakable resolve.

Soon after my birth, I fell gravely ill. Doctors gave up hope, stating that my survival was unlikely. Yet, my mother’s faith never wavered. She clung to hope with a tenacity that seemed almost supernatural. She prayed fervently, undertook austerities, and observed fasts, never giving up on me, even when the medical community had written me off.

The Lord had a plan, and that plan was to give us years together that we would come to cherish. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have been raised by the strongest woman in the universe—a woman who, despite the rejections and adversities, embraced me with a mother’s love and dedicated her life to my well-being. She sacrificed her comfort, her health, and her own dreams to provide me with education, nourishment, and the values that shaped me.

For 38 years, my mother endured unimaginable suffering and torment. It was only in July 2010 that our lives began to shift dramatically. I remember walking out of our home with the thrilling news of securing a job at PwC, a job that promised a salary that was merely a dream. Her astonishment and joy were palpable. “Really?” she asked, her voice filled with disbelief and pride. That evening marked the beginning of a new chapter for us, a period of gradual improvement and transformation in our lives.

Yet, as I now grapple with the pain of her loss, the last 38 days of her life resonate with an almost unbearable intensity. Her final days were marked by immense suffering. On a ventilator, with her legs and hands restrained, her body was swelling and oozing—each detail of her condition a vivid reminder of her torment. Despite her excruciating suffering, she was more concerned about the expenses of her treatment than her own pain. Her selflessness in those moments was a profound lesson in compassion.

In reflecting on her life, I am struck by a series of poignant coincidences. I was born on a Friday, and she departed on a Friday. I came into this world on the 27th, and she left us on the 27th. These details, though small, seem to underscore the deep connection we shared.

In the end, I am left with a heart full of gratitude and sorrow, and a profound respect for the woman who, despite her own suffering, gave me everything.

Through everything, my mother taught me an invaluable lesson: Never lose hope. As long as there is life, there is hope. Her life was a testament to enduring strength and selfless love. The pain of losing her is immense, and the grief is profound, but the lessons she imparted continue to guide me. Her life was one of relentless courage, and her legacy is a beacon of hope that will forever light my path.

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Healing and Spirituality

Transform Your Life: How Shifting Beliefs Can Unlock Your True Potential

“Our beliefs are like a lens we use to view life; we see what we convince ourselves is true.” – Vex King

Have you ever read or heard something that resonated so deeply that it felt like a truth you always knew, but just couldn’t articulate? I often find myself in such moments, where words from others mirror the experiences and emotions I’ve held within.

This makes me wonder: If our beliefs shape our reality, doesn’t that mean that by changing our beliefs, we can change our lives?

I grew up in humble circumstances, where life wasn’t always easy. Yet, through my mother’s unwavering strength, faith, and perseverance, she created a life for us that seemed to defy the odds. Her belief in love, hope, and the possibility of brighter days shaped not only her reality but mine as well. She found light in the darkest of times, and even when I couldn’t see any hope, she held onto it fiercely.

Her belief that love could heal, inspire, and overcome any obstacle was a lesson she lived every day. This belief system, deeply rooted in her heart, became the foundation of the life she built for us. As the youngest, much was hidden from me, including our financial struggles. But even as a child, I observed and sensed more than I understood. My mother’s beliefs – her conviction that love could make anything possible – became my guiding light, motivating me to strive for a better life for my family.

I am who I am because of her. The thoughts I think, the words I speak, the experiences I live – they all stem from the beliefs she instilled in me. I lived the brighter side of life because she shielded me from the storms, believing that I deserved to see the world through a lens of love and hope.

When my mother’s soul left this world, I learned stories of her life that shattered me. I could finally understand the silent battles she fought during 50 years of marriage, battles that were laid bare in her final days. The suffering I witnessed in her last 38 days will stay with me forever, a torment I carry in my soul. Yet, even in her suffering, her belief in love’s power never wavered.

My mother, a woman of immense strength, sacrificed her desires and needs to shape me into a better person. Her belief in me, in our family, and in the power of love, is the root of my inspiration.

My father, the only graduate of his generation, also held beliefs that shaped his life. He aspired to continue his studies but was denied by his parents. Life pushed him into the business world, where he faced many trials and was even expelled disrespectfully. Yet, he persevered, eventually finding his path in the insurance business. Even now, at 70+, his belief in hard work and resilience imparts strength to me.

Through the beliefs my parents held and lived by, I’ve come to realize that the deepest roots of my inspiration are found at home, long before I seek them elsewhere. Their beliefs shaped their lives, and in turn, they shaped mine.

Through the beliefs my parents held and lived by, I’ve come to realize that the deepest roots of my inspiration are found at home, long before I seek them elsewhere. Their beliefs shaped their lives, and in turn, they shaped mine.

I cultivated a habit of reading in the last few years, immersing myself in stories and ideas that challenged and expanded my understanding of the world. These stories, filled with diverse perspectives and wisdom, further fueled the evolution of my belief system. I’ve come to appreciate that while our foundational beliefs are often inherited from those we admire, they can and should evolve over time. We must remain open and adaptable if we are to truly take flight in life.

To grow and soar, we must embrace new ideas that reshape our beliefs and reality. Just as my parents’ beliefs shaped my life, I must evolve mine to navigate the future.

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Healing and Spirituality

Spirituality Made Simple: A Modern Approach to Inner Peace

Recently, a close friend asked me, “Hey, why don’t you give me some tips on spirituality?” The question took me by surprise, but it also brought a smile to my face.

Some people often look at me as if I’ve renounced all worldly pleasures just because I don’t go clubbing or socialize in the way many do and because I am single in 30s. The truth is, I’m selective in my choices, both in how I spend my time and the people I choose to be with. I deeply value my time and prefer to invest it in ways that align with my values and priorities.

It made me realize how many misconceptions people have about what spirituality truly means.

When most people hear the word “spirituality,” they often envision a life detached from material possessions, perhaps living as a sage in the Himalayas or engaging in rigorous rituals at home. This image, while not entirely incorrect, is just one facet of spirituality. The reality is much more accessible and deeply woven into our everyday lives.

Spirituality has become a topic of great interest in our era, as more and more people worldwide seek to take control of their lives. They are starting to recognize their responsibility towards themselves—their well-being, their mental health, and their overall happiness.

When my friend asked for advice, I explained that spirituality is not about renouncing the world or living an austere life. Instead, it’s about living fully in the present moment and making the most of each day. It’s about striving to improve yourself every single day, whether that means taking care of your mental well-being, staying physically fit, eating healthy, or maintaining focus and dedication in your work. It’s about cultivating healthy relationships and being the change, you wish to see in the world.

In essence, spirituality is about conscious living. It’s about responding to challenging situations with calm and clarity, rather than reacting impulsively. It’s about staying alert, being mindful of your thoughts, actions, and their impact on others. Unfortunately, in today’s fast-paced world, spirituality is often misunderstood as something unattainable or irrelevant, especially by those who are caught up in the rat race, neglecting their health, well-being, and personal growth.

But spirituality is far from a taboo or a relic of the past. It’s a way of life that brings balance, peace, and a deeper understanding of oneself and the world around us. I truly hope that more people will come to see spirituality for what it really is—a path to living a more fulfilled and conscious life. May Lord Krishna guide us all towards this wisdom.

Hare Krishna!

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Eternal Love: A Mother's Legacy

True Meaning of Raksha Bandhan: Love, Protection, and Spirituality

Raksha Bandhan celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, with a sister tying a thread on her brother’s wrist to symbolize her love and his promise to protect her.

Today, the festival has broadened to honour various sibling-like relationships, including cousins and close friends, highlighting mutual respect and support.

I have two older sisters and no brothers. My mother once shared a story with me that has stayed with me ever since. She told me about a little girl with no biological brother.

While returning from school on rainy days, her friends were often accompanied home by their brothers usually, leaving this little girl feeling left out since she had no brother. Her mother noticed the sadness on her face and, upon learning the reason for her distress, reassured her. She told her that whenever she felt the absence of a brother, she could call upon Laddu Bhaiya (Lord Krishna), and he would be there for her.

On another rainy day, recalling her mother’s comforting words, she called out, “Laddu Bhaiya, come to me!” To her amazement, a boy appeared and walked with her all the way home. From that day forward, Lord Krishna did come to rescue her every time she called him.

My mother instilled the values of spirituality in us since childhood. She encouraged us to tie threads around the wrist of Ladoo Gopal idol before tying them on our cousins.

Throughout my journey, I met many people who called themselves my brother, and for a while, we shared a bond. However, each of these relationships eventually became a source of disappointment and pain. I realized that in choosing these individuals over my spiritual connection with Lord Krishna, I had overlooked the true essence of Laddu Bhaiya’s protection and guidance. This painful experience taught me a valuable lesson: I was falling into the traps of the outside world and neglecting the enduring bond I had with the divine.

Ultimately, Raksha Bandhan is about cherishing protective and caring bonds that enrich our lives, reminding us to stand by each other through all of life’s challenges.

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Eternal Love: A Mother's Legacy

Raised by an Extraordinary Mother: A Year of Love and Healing

Dear Mumma,

It’s been a year since your departure from this realm, and I am still breathing—I did not fall apart. It’s not ordinary.

When Bajrang Bali visited me in a dream on the day you embarked on your eternal journey, it was not ordinary—an extraordinary blessing for me, as I honor you as an eternal being in human form and the creator of love and light in my life.

You introduced Lord Krishna as my Guru, and Krishna introduced you as my personal Guru on the day of your departure. It’s not ordinary.

I have remained sane and have consciously taken care of my mental and physical well-being. It’s not ordinary.

I stand upright where the mind is without fear, head held high, and remain grounded in the roots of existence. It’s not ordinary.

In the face of adversity, I stay calm and hold on to hope without losing my temper. It’s not ordinary.

You visit me in dreams, blessing me consciously before even the tiniest events in my life. It’s not ordinary.

As a former bibliophobe, reading 16 books this past year and applying their teachings despite your absence is not ordinary.

Writing multiple blog posts about our experience, your eternal love, guidance, and blessings over the past year—it’s not ordinary.

Managing a home alongside a full-time job and reviving several passions I once cherished—it’s not ordinary.

Having a career that’s both rewarding and inspiring—it’s not ordinary.

Seeing my paintings, writings, and interviews featured in newsletters—it’s not ordinary.

Cultivating wisdom to deal with difficult people while maintaining peace of mind—it’s not ordinary.

Being seen as an epitome of strength by those around me—it’s not ordinary.

Attending a seminar by a spiritual master just a week after your cremation ceremony—it’s not ordinary.

Every achievement, reward, and recognition I’ve received this past year—both at work and in personal life—is not ordinary.

When someone who visited our home only a couple of times in the last decade stayed by us after your departure—it’s not ordinary.

When those who once claimed to be the “best ones” in my life withdrew, I did not miss them, nor did I feel lonely. It’s not ordinary.

Forgiving and showing compassion to those who tried to hurt or break you—it’s not ordinary.

Receiving miracles, guidance, and help in various aspects of life—it’s not ordinary.

Understanding with clarity that I am merely an instrument, and you are the Doer—it’s not ordinary.

When I have been raised and nurtured in the lap of an extraordinary mother, how could I live an ordinary life?

I feel your presence in every cell of my existence.
I feel your presence in every vein of my existence.
I feel your presence with every breath of my existence.

My entire universe lies at your lotus feet.
Your eternal love and blessings fuel my life.

With you by my side, I will leave no stone unturned and make you proud—until we meet again at our eternal home.

Love you, Gurve Namah!

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Eternal Love: A Mother's Legacy

I Thrive in Mumma’s Love: Journey of Strength and Support

Since your departure from this realm on January 27, 2023, I feel as though I have been reborn. It has been six months, and my life has changed forever. The deep-rooted nurturing and eternal love you provided have shaped my life even before I entered this world. Here are a few highlights:

Dear Mumma,

Since your departure from this realm on January 27, 2023, I feel as though I have been reborn. It has been six months, and my life has changed forever. The deep-rooted nurturing and eternal love you provided have shaped my life even before I entered this world. Here are a few highlights:

  • The strength to hold myself together.
  • The strength to face the material world.
  • The strength to stand by Dad and Didi.
  • The level of patience during obstacles.
  • The ability to manage responsibilities at home and daily chores while dedicating time to work.
  • The ability to work with focus and love on every project.
  • The ability to meditate every single day.
  • The passion for reading books and regular prayer.
  • The ability and desire to learn musical instruments, journal, and tend to my plants.
  • The compassion and empathy in the face of challenges.
  • The introduction of Nisha Mam into my life and my passion for learning Mudra and the application of the five elements.
  • The love and compassion that Preeti Mam showers on me, along with my first-ever reading partner.
  • The love and compassion I see in the eyes of relatives for whom I once held bitter feelings.
  • Beyond the support of maids, security personnel, the cook, neighbors, the Mudra group, the Sujok clinic, and work seniors, I experience love and compassion even from strangers—such as the Uber driver, rickshaw puller, or vendors.

This list is infinite and has no end.

You are the doer, and I am merely an instrument in your hands. My life is completely surrendered, and I choose to humbly live as guided. Everything that comes to me feels like a gift from you.

Sometimes people ask me to “pray to your mom for this or that,” and I feel conflicted. How can I explain that you have already showered me with so much, even without being asked? It makes me feel like I am committing a great crime, making me feel insignificant and embarrassed.

Mumma, I love you with all the quarks and gluons (the tiniest things in the universe according to material realms) of my existence. My only comfort and inspiration come from knowing that you are free from all pain and suffering, resting in peace, and one with our Lord.