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Showing posts from November, 2010


Margi Purnima

Margi Purnima, also known as Margashirsha Purnima, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated during the Margashirsha month, typically falling in November or December. This auspicious day holds particular importance for various Hindu communities, especially among the Vaishnavas in the eastern parts of India. Margi Purnima 2024 date is December 15. One of the distinctive features of Margi Purnima is the observance of special rituals, prayers, and ceremonies by devotees. Many people choose to fast from sunrise to moonrise on this day, engaging in spiritual practices and dedicating their thoughts and actions to the divine. Wearing white clothing is a customary practice on Margi Purnima. White symbolizes purity, devotion, and spiritual significance in Hinduism. Devotees believe that adorning themselves in white attire helps enhance the purity of their thoughts and actions during the festivities. The festival is particularly revered by followers of the Vaishnava sect, which is dedicated to

Marathi Margashirsha Month in 2024 - Margasira Mahina Maharashtra Calendar 2024

Margashirsha Month is the ninth month in a traditional Marathi calendar followed in  Maharashtra . Margasira Mahina 2024 in Marathi calendar is from December 2, 2024 to December 30, 2024. Champa Shashti, Gita Jayanti, Mokshada Ekadasi and Datta Jayanti are observed in Margasira Mahina. Current year in Marathi calendar is 1946. Margashirsha Lakshmi Puja is observed on the Thursdays in the month. It begins on December 5, 2024. The other days are December 12, December 19 and December 26, 2024 Sankashti Chaturthi  monthly fasting dedicated to Ganesha in Margashirsha Mahina is on December 18, 2024 – Moonrise or Chandrodaya is at 8:58 PM – Indian Standard Time. Margashirsha Mahina Shukla Paksha and  Krishna  Paksha Margashirsha Mahina 2024 Shukla Paksha (Waxing phase of moon) is from December 2 to December 15. Margashirsha Month 2024 Krishna Paksha (Waning phase of moon) is from December 16 to December 30, 2024. Purnima or full moon in Marathi Margashirsha Mahina in 2024 M

Rig Veda Teachings on Cooperation

Let us speak together, Let our thoughts be one, Let us be of one mind. Let the place be common, Assembly be common, Mind and thought be common. Let the resolve be the same, And the mind be of one accord. May we live in harmony and agreement. Rig Veda (X, 191-3, 4) Earlier Rig Veda Teachings on Creation

A 16th Century 80 feet high elephant statue at Azhagar Kovil Village near Brihadeshwara Temple in Tamil Nadu

A majestic 16th Century 80 feet high elephant statue is located at Thuravu Melazhagar – Azhagarkovil and Azhagapuri – temple at Azhagar Kovil Village which is around 6km from Brihadeshwara Temple at Gangaikondacholapuram. Like numerous such monuments and statues associated with Hindu religion, this one too needs urgent repair and attention. The story here too is the same there is total neglect from authorities and Hindu society. The sheer size and the intricate designs that are part of the Azhagarkovil elephant statue would have easily placed it in the category of National Monument in any country around the world other than India . In India , government authorities spend lavishly on creating statues of corrupt politicians and of all those Tom Dick and Harry whom the politicians think has the capacity to create vote banks. Suganthy Krishnamachari writes in the Hindu Gazing at the Azhagarkovil elephant, whose majesty even the scaffolding and the thatch are unable to obscure, one can

Bheema Jayanti – Bhimasena Jayanthi

Bheema Jayanti is believed to be the day when the second of the Pandava brothers, Bhimasena, was born. Bheema Jayanti 2024 date is December 8. It is observed on the 8th day of the Shukla Paksha of Margashirsh month. Kunti is believed to have given birth to Bhima with the blessing of Vayu or the wind god. All the important victories of the Pandavas in the Mahabharata are built around the pillar Bhima. He is the brute force that crushes all that stands in the path of Dharma. In the 18-day Kurukshetra battle in the Mahabharata, all the 100 Kauravas including Duryodhana and Dushasana were killed by Bhima. Temples dedicated to Bhima in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra conduct special pujas and processions on the day.

Nag Panchami in Margashirsh Month – Nag Pujan - Nag Dive

In Margashirsh Month (November – December), a Nag Panchami and Naga Puja festival, pujas and rituals are held in many parts in western India . Nag Panchami in Margashirsh Month 2024 is on December 6. It is also known as Nag Pujan - Nag Dive. This particular Nag Puja or rituals, dedicated to Snakes, is observed on the fifth or Panchami day during the waxing phase of moon in Margashirsh month as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in Maharashtra and Karnataka. Please note that the most popular Nag Panchami is observed in Shravan month (July – August). In some regions, Nag Devi – the female serpent, is worshipped on the Nag Panchami in Margashirsh Month.

Goddess Vakula Devi – Vakulamata Devi – Mother of Hindu God Venkateswara

Goddess Vakula Devi, or Vakulamata Devi, is the mother of Hindu God Venkateswara as per certain Hindu traditions. A temple dedicated to Goddess Vakulamata is located facing the Tirupati Balaji Temple at Perurbanda village. Goddess Vakula Devi is the incarnation of Mother Yashoda – foster mother of Sri Krishna. Legend has it that Mother Yashoda could not witness the marriage of Sri Krishna with Rukmini. To console Her, Sri Krishna promised that when he will appear as Venkateswara during the kali yuga and she will be his foster mother and will get the opportunity to witness His marriage. Mother Yashoda thus had the fortune of being the mother Venkateswara in Kali Yuga. As promised it was Goddess Vakula Devi who went to King Akasa Raja to ask Goddess Padmavati’s hand in marriage. It was she who conducted the marriage of Padmavati and Venkateswara.

Sabarimala Prasadam through Courier at Your Home – DTDC Courier & Cargo Ltd to take Sabarimala Aravana Payasam around the World

DTDC Courier and Cargo Ltd is delivering Sabarimala Prasadam through Courier at your home. They are providing the service around the world. The Sabarimala package delivered at your home will contain a Can of Aravana Payasam, a pouch of Unniyappam, packets of Vibhooti, Kumkum and Manjal, and a picture of Lord Ayyappa. The cost of ordering a holy package is INR 275/- + Taxes to any address in India and INR 1700/- + Taxes to any address around the globe. We are publishing a letter sent to us by DTDC Courier and Cargo Ltd regarding this matter DTDC Courier and ltd has been authorized by the concerned authorities to carry the Holy Prasada of Lord Ayyappa through courier all over the world. Devotees can walk into any of the DTDC offices across the globe and place their orders for the Holy Prasada. Orders can also be placed at www.dtdc.in using your credit or debit card payment online. The DTDC delivery boy will be knocking your door within 10days from date of booking with the Holy Package

Margasira Masa 2024 in Telugu Calendar – Telugu Margasira Masa 2024

Margasira Masam is the ninth month in a traditional Hindu Telugu calendar followed in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Margasira Masam 2024 starts on December 2, 2024 to December 30, 2024. The holy Dhanur Masa begins on December 16 in this month. Dhanurmasam is the period between the entry of Sun in Dhanu Rashi and Makara Sankramana. Sankatahara Chavithi  dedicated to Vinayaka in Margasira Masa is on December 18, 2024 – Moonrise or Chandrodaya is at 9:04 PM  – Indian Standard Time. Telugu Margasira Masa Shukla Paksha and  Krishna  Paksha Margasira Masa Telugu calendar 2024 Shukla Paksha (Waxing phase of moon) is from December 2 to December 15. Telugu Margasira Masam 2024 Krishna Paksha (Waning phase of moon) is from December 16 to December 30, 2024. Ekadasi Fasting Dates in Telugu Margasira Masa are: Mokshada Ekadasi - December 11 Saphala Ekadasi –  December 26 Pradosh Fasting Dates in Telugu Margasira Masa are: Pradosh - December 13 Pradosh – December 28 (Shani Pra

Why Marriages are not held in Margazhi month or Tamil Margali Masam?

Margazhi month, or Margali Masam , is a highly auspicious Tamil month. It is the last month before the Uttarayana Punyakalam begins. Some Hindu communities do not hold auspicious ceremonies like marriages in the Margazhi month. This is not a general rule but is followed strictly by some Hindus. The main reason for not conducting marriages is that people want to use the holy month to concentrate on spiritual activities. The importance of Margali Masam was announced by Sri Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita when He said Maasanam Margasheershoham – among the twelve months, I am Margazhi. Margazhi Month is also considered the dawn period of Devas. The belief is that the Devas who had gone to sleep during the Dakshinayana wake up in the month of Margazhi. A human year is considered to be a day of the Devas. The day time begins with Uttarayana Punayakalam  – mid January. The night time of Devas begins during  Dakshinayana Punyakalam – mid July. The reason for not conducting mar

Chennai – Mookambika Temple – Sringeri – Udupi Package Tour from Indian Railways

Rail Tourism  India , the tourism arm of Indian Railways, is conducting spiritual tour from Chennai to Mookambika Temple and Sringeri. The five-day tour includes darshan at Mookambika Temple , Visit to Sringeri, Dharmasthala, and Udupi Sri Krishna Temple . The Spiritual Tour starts from Chennai . The price of per person occupancy is Rupees 8900/-, double occupancy is 4950/- and triple occupancy is 3750/-

Hanuman Ashtami at Ujjain Bade Ganesh Temple

Hanuman Ashtami is a unique ritual observed at the Bade Ganesh Temple located at Ujjain . Hanuman is worshipped in the form of Panchmukhi Hanuman – five-faced Hanuman. The temple is located on the Har Siddhi Road near the Mahakaleshwar Temple . Hanuman Ashtami 2024 date is December 23. Bade Ganesh Temple at Ujjain is also a famous center for Hindu astrology. The temple also conducts classes on Sanskrit and Astrology. Hanuman Ashtami is observed on the krishna paksha ashtami day in Poush month as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in North India. 

Tripur Bhairavi Mahavidya Jayanti – Tripura Bhairavi Jayanti 2025 Date

Goddess Tripura Bhairavi is the 8 th Goddess among the ten Mahavidyas. Tripur Bhairavi Mahavidya Jayanti date 2025 is January 12. It is believed that this form of Goddess Shakti appeared on earth on this day. Tripur Bhairavi Mahavidya is worshipped for defeating sensual desires and for attaining peace and prosperity. In some Tantric scriptures she is also referred as Kala Bhairavi. It is said that she presides over the world that is undergoing transformation – from good to bad and from bad to good. Mahavidyas are ten in number and they are the forms of Goddess Shakti – she appears in these ten forms to provide knowledge about the Ten Supreme Forms of Energies. It is annually observed on Paush Shukla Paksha Chaturdashi Tithi.

Sudhanshu Maharaj Quotes - Teachings of Sudhanshuji Maharaj

Sudhanshuji Maharaj is a modern day Hindu Guru. Here are few quotes and teachings of Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj. Prayer, Endeavor, Inspiration, and Industry I consider them four fruits of life. We build our good luck through them. Inside every man Resides God and Inside every man there is a superman. What we require is that we recognize our significance and strive to uplift ourselves mentally and spiritually. Then the superman inside us will be awakened and the divinity inside us, will lift itself and excel. As the reflection of the moon can be seen in still waters, similarly one who is at peace can see God. Luck is stronger but endeavor is much stronger then luck. Do give importance to your luck but not more than your action. Search for special and good qualities in everyone; learn from them and gain wisdom and experience. Once we are able to discover this essential oneness of man and universe, the Creator and the created, then here is no looking back, the

Pandu Osha

Pandu Osha is observed in Orissa in the Margashirsh month. It is dedicated to Yudhishtira, the eldest of the Pandava brothers. Pandu Osha 2024 date is December 15. Some texts suggest that the Osha is dedicated to Pandu the father of the Pandavas. Annually Pandu Osha falls on the Purnima or full moon day in Oriya Margashirsh month. It is also known as Pandu Purnima. A popular story associated with Pandu Osha states that the King of Kalinga had no children and his luck changed after he and the queen observed the Pandu Osha.

Akhand Dwadashi Vrata 2024

Akhand Dwadashi Vrat is observed on the 12th day of the Shukla Paksha or waxing phase of moon in Margashirsh month. Akhand Dwadashi Date in 2024 is December 12. The Vrat is dedicated to Hindu God Vishnu. Food made using milk of cow is eaten on the day. Curd is consumed by those offering the vrat. The vrat is also observed by some Hindu communities on any of the 12th day of the Shukla Paksha in Margashirsh, Paush, Phalgun, Chaitra, Vaishak, Jyeshta or Ashada month. It is believed that observing this vrat will help in attaining peace and prosperity in life. It is also performed for a good family life.

The Great Hindu Tradition – Book with Meanings of Hindu Rituals and Why We Perform Them

The Great Hindu Tradition by Sri Sarma Sastrigal attempts to clear the curiosity that arises in the mind of Hindus when they perform a particular ritual. The book gives insights into Vedic principles and Shastras and on why we perform certain rituals in our daily life.  Ancient customs and traditions are explained in simple English in the book. The Hindu reports about the book Swami Dayananda Saraswati described the book as different as it gives answers to common questions. “This is a handbook of Vedic dharma,” he said. Nirmala Lakshman, Joint Editor, The Hindu, said “the book, with smaller to larger examples, reminds us of our links to the community and the world at large.” She said a great deal of clarity about the traditions and cultures had been brought out in the book. Where to buy the book? I wanted to buy the book. So I searched for the publishers name in all the newspapers that published the news of the release of the book. There was no information on who the publisher was or f

Dashaditya Vrat – Dasaditya Vrata

Dashaditya Vrat is observed in the Margashirsha month in traditional Hindu calendar followed in North India . Dashaditiya Vrat 2024 date is December 10. It is observed on the 10 th day of the Shukla Paksha or waxing phase of moon in Margashirsh month. Those undertaking the fast listen to the Dasaditya Vrat Katha. The vrat is mainly observed in North India especially in Uttar Pradesh.

Obama as Nataraja on Newsweek Cover November 22, 2010

The Newsweek cover of November 22, 2010 edition has US President Barack Obama in Nataraja pose – the cosmic dance Hindu God Shiva as Nataraja. The cosmic dance of Shiva as Nataraja represents – Creation, Protection, Destruction, Embodiment and Release. In essence, the cosmic dance symbolically represents the continuous cycle of creation and destruction. This cosmic dance takes place in every particle and is the source of all energy. It represents the Supreme Truth. The Newsweek cover page of November 22, 2010 is headlined as "God of All Things" – Why the modern presidency may be too much for one person to handle. The Newsweek cover suggests that Obama is not God Shiva to solve all issues. But it was unnecessary to bring the Nataraja symbol into American political squabbles as Nataraja Shiva Murti is worshipped by millions of people in Hindu Temples and homes.  It is the unparalleled insight of the ancient Saints of Hinduism that they were able to express the entire cycle of

Qualities of a True Guru or Saint – Sri Krishna in Uddhava Gita

In the Uddhava Gita in the Srimad Bhagavad Purana, Sri Krishna advises Uddhava regarding the qualities of a true guru or saint. Here are the qualities enumerated by Sri Krishna. Gurus are kind to all. They won’t wrong anybody. They have no grudge against anyone. They have endurance, patience, fortitude. They are free from scandals. They take pleasure and pain in the same vein. They are ever ready to help others. They are not enchanted by worldly things. They have tender heart but full command over their sense organs. They are pure, benevolent, detached. They eat only for survival and never for taste. They are totally and always at ease. They are unperturbed. They are devoted to Brahman (Supreme Truth). They are thoughtful. They are alert and conscious. They are serious. They are patient in dangers. They have won over all the six weaknesses – hunger, thirst, pain, lust, old age and death. They give due honor to others. They are skilled and dexterous.

Official Website of Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple

What is the official website of Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple ? Or is it better to ask is there an official website of Sabarimala? There is no clear answer to this question. This year the I & PRD Department of the Government of Kerala has put together a website that gives latest information about Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple . Luckily this website is functioning now and is updated regularly. You can find the I and PRD Department website on Sabarimala here - Official Website of Sabarimala Sree Dharmasastha Temple – this is being currently promoted as the official website of Sabarimala by Devaswom Minister’s website. Note – the Travancore Devaswom which manages the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple , which is visited by millions of people, has only a domain name and no content for more than a year now.

Anandeshwar Bhairav Jayanti

Anadeshwar Bhairav Jayanti is mainly observed in Jammu and Kashmir and is dedicated to Hindu god Shiva. Anandeshwar Bhairav Jayanti 2024 date is December 25. Anandeshwar Bhairav is one of the manifestations of Shiva and is worshipped by certain Hindu communities in Kashmir . The Jayanti is observed on the 10 th day of the Krishna Paksha or waning phase of moon in Poush month as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in North India . Special rituals dedicated to Anandeshwar Bhairav are observed on the day. One of the important temples dedicated to this form of Shiva is located in Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh.

Importance of Bhasma or Vibhuti – Significance of applying sacred ash or Vibhuti on the body

The popular belief in Hindu tradition is that applying Vibhuti, or Bhasma, or sacred ash, on forehead and other parts of the body will help in redemption of sins. It is also believed that Bhasma which is made using burned cow dung has the power to cure various diseases and it also helps in improving physical and mental health. In Hinduism, Bhasma or Vibhuti is associated with Shiva. While applying Bhasma one should chant the mantra – Om Namah Shivaya. Bhasma should be applied using the middle three fingers – not the thumb and the little finger. One should take Bhasma in the left hand and apply it using the right hand. Bhasma applied on forehead and on the middle of the head will help in removing lethargy and laziness. Vibhuti applied on neck, hand and chest will help in redemption of sins. Some saints are known to apply Bhasma all over the body. This is in adoration of Shiva. It is also believed that this will help in removing sins committed in previous bir

Thulabharam in Tirupati Temple – TTD Tulabharam

Thulabharam in Tirupati Temple is held at the Srivari Padi Kavali. In the Thulabaram ritual, a devotee sits on a pan of the weighing balance and the other pan is filled with materials greater than the weight of the devotee. Devotees usually offer sugar, jaggery or coins. The commodity used to weigh is donated to Tirupati Venkateswara Temple . TTD, the administrative body of the temple, provides the materials needed for performing Tulabharam. Tirumala News writes about this unique ritual which is performed by more than 100 devotees daily. On the left corner of the Padi kavili of the Srivari Temple one will see a large steel balance kept for weighing persons who want to fulfill their vow to Lord Venkateswara. Nearly 100-200 persons fulfill their vow at this spot by donating commodities, metals or even coins worth their weight to Lord Venkateswara . Legend says that Sri Venkateswara had become heavily indebted and had taken huge loans from kubera, the Hindu god of wealth and henc

Ayyappa Devotional Songs Online – Listen to Ayyappa Songs in Malayalam

Each year during Mandala Makaravilakku Festival at Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple, musicians bring out special devotional songs dedicated to Ayyappa in Malayalam. This year an exclusive portal dedicated to Ayyappa by Malayalam Newspaper Mathurbhumi is presenting the latest Ayyappa songs online. You can listen to Ayyappa Songs titled Ambili Poovalle Ayyappan by Kalabhavan Mani. Another set of songs is by Ganesh Sundharam. You can listen to the songs online. There is no option of download. You can find the Ayyappa Devotional Songs Online here at Harivarasanam website of Mathurbhumi Newspaper Mathurbhumi has stopped the Harivarasanam website. Link – Malayalam Ayyappa Songs by Kalabhavan Mani  Link – Malayalam Ayyappa Songs by Ganesh Sundharam

Six months Ravivar Vrat – Sunday Fasting for Six months from Margashirsh to Vaishakh

Some Hindu communities especially in the Mithilanchal region of North India observe Sunday fasting (Ravivar Vrat) for six months. Prayers and vrat on the day is dedicated to Surya or the Sun god. The Sundays are calculated from the first Sunday of Margashirsh (November – December) month to the last Sunday in Vaishakh month (April – May). The vrat is kept for peace and prosperity. It is observed by both men and women. Please note that such vrats are limited to certain Hindu communities and the rules and method of observing the vrat varies from region to region. 

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa – A story on the power of habit that keeps out truth

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa used to narrate wonderful stories with a moral or valuable lesson. Here is one such story on the power of influence and habit that keeps out truth. A group of fisherwoman who were on their way home from a distant market was caught in heavy rain. So they took shelter in the home of a flower seller. The florist opened the room where he used to stock his flowers and asked the fisherwomen to take rest there at night and start their journey early morning. The room was filled with fragrance of various flowers and this made the fisherwomen uncomfortable. None of them were able to sleep. Then one fisherwoman came up with an idea that they should sprinkle some water on their fish baskets so that it will generate foul smell which will make them sleep. All the other women agreed to the idea and they sprinkled water on their fish baskets and kept it near their head and slept peacefully. The fragrance of the flowers did not trouble them. Such i

Bhagavad Gita in Daisy Format for the Visually Challenged and Blind People

The Bhagavad Gita in Daisy format is the first of its kind and is primarily aimed at people who are blind or cannot read printed material. DAISY is the short form of Digital Accessible Information System and DAISY assists people who, for various reasons, have challenges using (reading) regular printed media or written materials. The Gita in Daisy format is presented by Swami Radhanandji from the USA , together with Dr Dengla, the visually challenged principal of NAB-PNM, Rehabilitation Centre for the blind in Mount Abu , Rajasthan , India , with the support of Mukesh Modi, chairman and founder of Adarsh Credit Cooperative Society Ltd, Mount Abu . Times of India reports Daisy format is not only for the benefit of the visually challenged or the print disabled but also for the sighted who do not want to read. When Swamiji used to give discourse through Skype from the USA , Dr Dengla religiously recorded the same for two hours daily in the Daisy Recording Studio of the centre, financed

Sant Sunderdas Teachings

I’m neither angry nor friendly to anyone; Neither attached nor jealous; Neither I’ve enmity towards nor ready to attack on anyone; Neither I start debates nor am aggrieved at someone; There is neither companionship nor inclination towards a person; I speak neither ill nor have any dealings with anyone. I like only to think of Brahman and nothing else. Sant Sunderdas 

Book - Plants of Religious Significance: The Hindu Perspective

Plants of Religious Significance: The Hindu Perspective is written by Rabindranath Lackhan from Trinidad and Tobago . The book aims to provide information about the plants and flowers used in Hindu rituals and pujas. Sri Lackhan wrote the first edition of the book while he was an undergraduate student in 1985. Now he has published a revised edition of the book. The book is currently available in stores in Trinidad and the author is planning to make it available on Amazon.com You can contact the author and know more about the book here at his official website -  Rabindranath Lackhan Trinidad and Tobago’s Newsday writes Rabindranath Lackhan wrote the first edition of the book while he was an undergraduate student at the University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine campus. Lackhan told Sunday Newsday that he and his good friend Ramnarine Ramkissoon became involved with a community project and helped in the construction of a Hindu temple in California . They decided to spruce u

Dhatri Puja in Kartik Month – Dhaatri Puja

Dhatri Puja is dedicated to the gooseberry tree and this particular puja is observed by certain communities in South India . Dhatri Puja 2024 date is November 14. In this particular puja, Amla or Amla or Gooseberry tree is equated with Goddess Lakshmi. Gooseberry, or nellikai, is also known as Dhaatri. Dhatri puja is essentially performed for prosperity and auspiciousness. Special pujas are performed under the gooseberry tree or using parts of the tree at home. It is observed on the trayodasi after Hariprabodini Ekadashi.

Utthana Dwadashi – Uttahana Dvadasi

Utthana Dwadashi is observed in Kartik month. Special pujas are offered to Tulsi plant and Damodara form of Sri Krishna on the day by many Hindu communities in South India .  Uthana Dwadashi 2024 date is November 13. The ritual is observed on the 12 th day of the Shukla Paksha or waxing phase of moon in Kartik month as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Tulsi leaves and flowers are offered to Damodara on this day. The ritual is mainly performed by the Vaishnavites. Many Hindu communities also perform the Tulsi Vivah and puja on the day.

Tirupati Balaji Temple Goes Green – Environment Friendly Measures Adapted by Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple

Tirupati Balaji Temple , the most visited place of worship in a year and is also the richest temple in the world, is now setting example for other Hindu Temples by going green. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanms (TTD) has adapted numerous environment friendly measures. Here are some of the ecofriendly and green concept promoted by Tirupati Venkateswara Temple . Solar Cooking System Clean energy to feed over 70, 000 people daily. Solar Cooking system saves 120, 000 liters of diesel. 106 solar dishes that use solar energy to convert water into steam, has become the pioneer effort in energy saving and also reducing oil pollution in the hill shrine. The steam is also used for the bathing purpose of thousands of devotees daily. It must be noted that during weekend, auspicious days and festivals the shrine attracts more than 100,000 people daily. Solar powered lights Windmills – produces 140 lakh units annually accounting for its 40-45 per cent of the energy needs. The total requirement i

Skanda Purana in Hindi – Read Skand Puran in Hindi Online

Skanda Purana is one among the 18 Puranas and narrates the stories associated with Hindu God Muruga, also known as Kartikeya and Skanda. Skanda Puran is the largest of the 18 Puranas. Skanda Purana in Hindi is provided by Ved Puran website. You can read it online in Hindi but there is no download option. You can read  Skanda Purana in Hindi here at Ved Puran.

Vrishchika Sankranti

Vrischika Sankranti marks the beginning of the Sun’s transition from Tula Rashi to Vrischika Rashi (Libra to Scorpio). Vrischika Sankranti 2024 date is November 16. Time - 7:25 PM on November 16. (note a day in Hindu calendar ends just before next day sunrise.) There are 12 Sankranthis in a Hindu Solar Calendar. This Sankranti is an auspicious day for many Hindu communities in eastern parts of  India . ‘San’ means plenty and good and ‘Kranti’ means radical change and Sankranthi means plenty of good change Next is the Dhanu Sankranti and with it begins the Dhanumasa. 

Hanuman Chalisa Lyrics in Hindi Font – Download Chalisa Hindi Script in pdf format

Hanuman Chalisa is written by Goswami Tulsidas and is the most popular prayer (bhajans) dedicated to Hanuman. Here is Hanuman Chalisa Lyrics in Hindi Font. It is in pdf format and you can download the Chalisa Hindi in Script using pdf reader installed on your browser. Link - Hanuman Chalisa Lyrics in Hindi font

Dharni Vrat – Dharani Vrata dedicated to Vishnu

Dharni Vrat is dedicated to Srihari Vishnu and is observed in the Kartik month. It is observed on the 12 th day of the Shukla Paksha or waxing phase of moon in Kartik Month. Dharni Vrat 2024 date is November 13. Note – Some Hindu communities observe this vrat on the 12 th day during the waxing phase of moon in Margashirsh month. This date is on December 12, 2024. The popular belief is that observing this ritual will help in attaining Shradha, which will help in moksha. Hands, legs, eyes, ears and nose of Vishnu are worshipped on the day. The importance is this Vrata is mentioned in the Matsya Purana.

Book – Unifying Hinduism: Philosophy and Identity in Indian Intellectual History

Unifying Hinduism: Philosophy and Identity in Indian Intellectual History by Andrew J. Nicholson attempts to prove that the unified Hindu identity did not happen with the arrival of the British in India as widely propagated by the British, Christian missionaries and Marxist historians. Andrew J. Nicholson, assistant professor of Hinduism and Indian intellectual history in the Department of Asian and Asian American Studies at Stony Brook University, suggests that the unity happened during the fourteenth to seventeenth centuries when philosophers and saints of the Bhakti cult treated the philosophies of Vedanta, Samkhya, and Yoga, along with the worshippers of Vishnu, Shiva, and Shakti, as belonging to a single system of belief and practice. About the book from the flyer Drawing on the writings of philosophers from late medieval and early modern traditions, including Vijnanabhiksu, Madhava, and Madhusudana Sarasvati, Nicholson shows how influential thinkers portrayed Vedanta philosophy

Nandini Navami

Nandini Navami is dedicated the holy cow Nandini mentioned in the Hindu Scriptures. Nandini Navami 2024 date is December 9. The popular belief is that Nandini was the first cow to appear on earth – she is the daughter of Kamadhenu who appeared during the churning of ocean. Nandini Navmi is observed on the ninth of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) in the month of Margashirsha (November – December). Nandini was given to Sage Vasishta by Kamadhenu. It is therefore believed that Nandini is the mother of all the cows on earth. Special ‘Go Puja’ is held on the day. 

Top 10 tallest Hindu God Murtis (Statue or idol) in the World

Human beings are constantly trying to imagine the Supreme Being (which is formless) in a form (murti or statue or idol) to offer worship, prayers, pujas and rituals. People want the murtis of gods to be the costliest, tallest and biggest. Here is a list of top 10 tallest Hindu God Murtis (Statue or idols) in the World. Currently the tallest Hindu murti is the Shiva at Sanga in Nepal which was inaugurated in 2010. As per Hindu tradition, the Supreme Truth (Brahman) is beyond imagination. But human beings need a form to worship and we modern day people are obsessed with size and height. So we are constantly increasing the size of Hindu Murtis. Therefore this list will be constantly updated. Shiva Kailash Nath Mahadev at Sanga in Nepal – 143 feet (45 meter) ( read more about Shiva at Sanga ) Murugan Murti at Batu Caves in Malaysia – 140 feet (42. 7 meter) Veera Abhaya Anjaneya Hanuman Swami at Paritala near Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh in India – 135 feet (41 m) Shiva at Murud

Dahi Chura Bhog at Baba Baidyanath Tempe at Deoghar

Dahi Chura Bhog is an important ritual at the famous Baba Baidyanath Temple at Deoghar dedicated to Shiva. It is observed during the month of Agrahan (November – December). In 2024, the Dahi Chura Bhog begins on November 16 and ends on December 15. In the ritual, specially prepared yogurt and rice flakes are offered to the deities. Dahi Chura is an important food for many Hindu communities in eastern part of India . This particular food items is considered to be a must during important ceremonies. During Makar Sankranti festival, people prepare Dahi Chura and it is consumed as a ‘Prasad’ after offering it to Surya, the sun god.

Soundarya Lahari mp3 free Download – Saundaryalahari of Adi Shankaracharya

Soundarya Lahari of Adi Shankaracharya extols the glory of Mother Goddess.  Saundaryalahari consists of 100 shlokas. This particular Soundarya Lahari mp3 free download is provided by Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. The audio of Saundaryalahari is by Smt. Rama Ramakrishnan. There is no background music and is a direct chanting of the Soundarya Lahari in the traditional South Indian Hindu way of chanting holy texts. The first forty one verses are popularly known as Ananda Lahari and its subject matter is mystical and philosophical in nature. The next 59 verses form the actual Soundarya Lahari (Inundation of Beauty) and describe the beauty and glory of Mother Goddess. Link – you can download Soundarya Lahari mp3 free here at official website of Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam (At the website right click on the link and use the save link as option for download – there are 10 parts of the Soundarya Lahari).

Swaminarayan Live Darshan Daily – Swaminarayan Aarti and Puja Live Online

Shri Swaminarayan Mandir at Bhuj in Gujarat in India is providing live darshan of Sri Swaminarayan daily. There are five daily Aarti live darshan – Mangla at 5:30 AM, Shangar at 7:00 AM, Rajbhog 11:20 AM, Sandhya 6:30 PM, Shayan 8:00 PM. Apart from the live darshan, the temples website also provides photos of murtis. The pictures of each day are uploaded. Link – You can watch Swaminarayan Live Darshan Daily here at the official website of Bhuj Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. About Bhagvan Swaminarayan Bhagvan Swaminarayan is the central figure of Swaminarayan sect and is an incarnation of the Supreme Being (Brahman).Majority of the followers of Swaminarayan are from Gujarat and today the community has numerous temples and establishments around the world. About his mission by Swaminarayan in his own words The earlier avatars incarnated to serve a specific purpose; however, My present incarnation is to Brahmanise (realization of Supreme Being) the Jivas and grant them ultimate salvation. Fo

Bhairavnath Jayanti

Bhairavnath Jayanti is one of the highly auspicious days dedicated to Hindu God Bhairavnath or Kalabhairava – a manifestation of Lord Shiva. Bhairavnath Jayanti 2024 date is November 23. It is believed that Shiva appeared as Bhairavnath on this day. The Ashtami, the eighth day, during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of moon) in the month of Margashirsha as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in North India is considered the ideal day to propitiate Kala Bhairav. The corresponding period in other calendars is the Kartik Krishna Paksha. Legend has it that it Lord Shiva in the form of Bhairavnath chopped off the fifth head of Brahma and performed penance on this day. There are several legends regarding the reason for chopping of the fifth head of Brahma. Once legend has it that the Trimurti – Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva once had an argument over who is the most powerful. During the argument, Brahma uttered a remark which enraged Shiva. Suddenly, he produced Bhairavnath from h

Gujarati Kartik Month 2024 – Kartak Maas Hindu Gujarat Calendar 2024

Kartik Maas, or Kartak Month, is the first month in a traditional Gujarati calendar followed in  Gujarat ,  India . Kartik Month 2024 in Gujarati Calendar begins on November 2 to December 1. As per Vikram Samvat calendar, the Vikram Year 2081 begins on the first day of Kartik month. Gujarati New Year is marked on November 2. Some of the important festivals in the month include Bhai Bij (November 3), Labh Pancham (November 6) and Tulsi Vivah  (November 12 to November 15) and Dev Diwali (November 15). Ekadasi Fasting Dates in Kartik Maas Prabodhini Ekadasi – November 12 Utpatti Ekadasi – November 26 Kartik Mahina Pradosh Pradosh – November 13 Pradosh – November 28 Sankashti Chaturthi  monthly fasting dedicated to Ganesha in Kartik Mahina is on November 18 – Moonrise or Chandrodaya is at 8:30 PM – Indian Standard Time. Kartik Maas Sud Padvo and Vad Padvo – Shukla Paksha and  Krishna  Paksha Kartik Month Sud Padvo in 2024 (Waxing phase of moon) i

108-feet Hanuman Idol (Murti) at Jakhu Hill, Shimla in Himachal Pradesh

On Hanuman Jayanti day (November 4) during Diwali 2010, a 108-feet Hanuman Murti was unveiled at Jakhu Hill near Shimla in Himachal Pradesh. The Jakhoo Hill Hanuman Murti has height of 108 feet at the highest altitude of over 8100 feet and is constructed at a cost of Rs 10.5 million. Jakhu Hills is already renowned for a famous  Hanuman   Temple . Note - The tallest Hanuman Statue in the world is located at Paritala in Andhra Pradesh. It  has a height of 135 feet. The Hindu reports The 108-foot-high statue of Hanuman at the famous Jakhu temple is built by JHS Svendgaard Laboratories, India 's largest oral care products manufacturers, and the HC Nanda Trust. The reinforced concrete Hanuman idol has been built at a cost of Rs. 1.5 crore, informed sources said. The Kesri idol will be illuminated at night with floodlights.  You may also like to read Why Hanuman Murtis are painted red or sindhoor color? Importance of 108 in Hinduism

Puja of Tulsi Plant in Front of House – Do’s and Don’ts

Tulsi Plant, or Basil, is grown in many traditional Hindu homes on a raised platform. Today the plant is grown on portable or moveable Tulsi plant pots. The Tulsi plant should be placed where there is good sunlight. It plant should be ideal placed before a door opening to the east. The Krishna Tulsi variety of the Tulsi plant to should be grown for worship and puja purposes. The platform used for growing Tulsi plant should not be too small. The Tulsi plant should be always above the foundation of the home. You can grow more than one Tulsi plant in the platform at a time – this is because in some areas Tulsi plant dries during some season. So an extra plant will be helpful. You should also scatter the dry seeds inside the platform. The plant should be watered daily. Cow dung which has been sun dried should be used as manure occasionally. The small plants and dry leaves should be removed regularly. If you do regular puja to the Tulsi plant, then you light a lamp daily. The