Dear Shri Lakshmi Narasimhan: One quick clarification on a thing you claimed: "> Moreover, if those who belong to the 3 varnas claim that > sandhyavandanam is a Nithya Karma and needs to be performed as > a "ritual" and is a mandate, let me put forth a question. Brahmanas > are not supposed to earn, live a luxurious life etc. They must beg > and eat (Bhavathi Bhikshaam Dehi?!). " >From my limited understanding of dharma sUtras, it seems you are confusing duties of brahmacharya (an ashrama) with duties of 'brAhmaNa' (a varNa). Begging is ordained for all dvijas entering brahmacharya Ashrama (not just brAhmans). brAhmaNas (as a matter of fact, all other varNas) upon entering grhasthAshrama can very well earn money. During untoward situations, they can resort to the professions of lower varNas (Apaddharma). {Guidelines for how to earn money lawfully is specified in Dh. Su., and that is a different topic}. Leading a non-luxurious, pious life however still holds. Regards, Kasturi Rangan
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