Goshalas: "Cows are the Mother of the Universe"
"Where the cow is, there resides the divine, just as with all living beings.
Where cows are, there is achievement; where cows are, there is happiness."
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“Without the protection of cows, all endeavors fail;
In the home where cows are protected, there resides all success.”
This means that protecting and worshipping cows leads to all kinds of accomplishments. The conservation of cows brings prosperity and happiness to our homes.
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“Gopis bring happiness and wealth;
Without the cow, there is no ultimate benefit.”
This verse signifies that the cow is the source of all happiness, wealth, and prosperity. It becomes difficult to experience abundance and peace in life without her.
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“Cows are beloved to all beings;
Worshipping cows removes all sins.”
It indicates that cows are cherished by all living beings, and their worship helps to eliminate all sins.
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“Where the cow is, there resides the divine;
Where cows are, there is achievement; where cows are, there is happiness.”
This verse conveys the message that where cows are present, there is the abode of deities, leading to the influx of happiness and prosperity.
Cows hold great significance in Indian culture. They are considered symbols of love, service, and devotion. Here is a famous verse that reflects the importance of cows:
"Wherever cows reside, there is a maternal presence;
All beings derive welfare from her."
This verse emphasizes that where cows are present, there is a maternal counterpart, and cows are essential for the welfare of all beings. We must respect and serve them. Additionally, cow's milk, ghee, and other products are considered beneficial for health and prosperity.
Construction of the Goshamala
Building large Goshalas will not only contribute to cow preservation but also promote rural prosperity. There are several reasons for the need for large Goshalas, particularly from social, economic, and environmental perspectives:
- Animal Protection: Goshalas ensure safety and conservation of cows and other animals. Many cows wander injured or childless on the streets; Goshalas provide them shelter.
- Milk Production: Larger Goshalas can increase milk production with better management and care, strengthening the agriculture-based economy.
- Utilization of Cow Products: Cow dung and urine serve as organic fertilizers and pesticides, promoting natural farming and reducing chemical use.
- Environmental Protection: By adopting organic practices, Goshalas help conserve the environment.
- Education and Awareness: Goshalas raise community awareness on animal husbandry and agriculture, encouraging rural self-sufficiency.
- Economic Development: They create local employment opportunities through animal husbandry, milk production, and sale of cow products.
- Religious and Cultural Significance: Goshalas become centers for religious and cultural activities, given cows' importance in Indian culture.
- Social Welfare: Goshalas assist the poor and needy by providing milk and other cow products.
For all these reasons, constructing large Goshalas is essential not only for animal welfare but also for society and the environment.