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Showing posts from July 11, 2015


Danda Nacha

Danda Nacha is an unusual ritual performed by devotees in the Ganjam District of Orissa to appease Goddess Kali. Danda Nacha means ‘Punishment Dance’ and in the ritual devotees inflicts pain on themselves. Dancing for hours in hostile surfaces praising Goddess Kali is the most important part of the ritual. Apart from dancing, devotees find other ways to inflict pain like rolling on hot-tarred road, spending several sleepless nights and barefoot walking for long distances. Hindustan Times reports "Prior to 13-14 days of "Bisuv Sankranti" we move from village to village worshipping the Goddess Kali and Lord Shiva. We don't stay at one place. We fast the entire day and take some food, fruits or vegetables at night only. We are not even allowed to sleep at night. These are punishments that we give ourselves," said Kana Gauda, a dancer. "I am doing this for the last 26 years. All my wishes have been fulfilled because of this. We use

Parama Ekadasi in Adhika Masa

The Ekadasi that is observed during the Krishna Paksha or waning phase of moon in Adhika Masa or extra month in a Hindu Lunar calendar is known as Parama Ekadashi. Parama Ekadasi 2023 date is August 12. Observing this Ekadasi is believed to help in removing sins and it also brings in material progress. Adhika Masa, or the extra month, in a lunar calendar is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and therefore the Ekadasi is also known as Purushottam Kamala Ekadasi. As the month is dedicated to Vishnu, observing this Ekadasi is considered highly rewarding. All the usual rules associated with Ekadasi fasting are observed on the day.

Kamadhenu Meaning – What is the meaning of Kamadhenu in Hindu religious context?

Vedas look upon the cow as a source of wealth. The cow is extolled as Kamadhenu meaning giver of pleasure, love and desire. Hindus have always regarded cow as sacred and treasured it. In many Hindu religious texts, cattle played an important role in spiritual stories, rituals and economy. The legend of creation centers on the cow. The cow is mentioned in various contexts as rivers, rains clouds and mother of Gods and earth. These concepts convey that the cow is life giving and is a symbol of femininity. Related Story of Kamadhenu