ANNADHANAM

In Sanskrit the word “Annam” means food and “Daanam” means to donate. Thus “Annadanam” means feeding the hungry. Annadanam is Mahadanam or the greatest donation is an essential part of every body life.There is no greater merit in this world than feeding the hungry. Even the Gods appreciate the deed of regular annadanam. Annadanam improves strength, sharpness of brain and divinity to both the donor and receiver.

It means that food sustains all creation. Satisfying a person’s hunger brings good karma in this world as well as the next. Annadanam is not limited to humans alone. One should also feed animals and plants, as they, too, are part of creation.

Annadhanam is the best option to get rid of karma is to cultivate detachment (vairagya) and discrimination (viveka), say the scriptures. One should learn to perform one’s ordained duties with no desire for personal gain and also with no sense of ego.