She was created by the gods in the second century to defeat Bala, who usurped the position of gods. The gods each put a part of their body to create Devi. This is her origin. Now about the modern Devi Virgin Comics says: Having defeated Bala in her virgin incarnation so many centuries ago, a modern-day Devi must be reborn to combat the Dark Lord who has returned and grown more powerful than ever. He now controls the festering city of Sitapur – a metropolis of slums and perverted technology built on the ruins of the ancient city of Candaka . It is in these ruins that the greatest power is believed to be hidden – a vessel containing the energy released by the timeless.  The modern Devi has an ally in Rahul Singh and devotees in Durapasya .  The villains include Bala, Iyam, a loyal soldier that does both Bala’s bidding and his dirty work, Kratha, an Apsara whose main aim is killing of Devi. Old wine in new bottle. Again a battle between good and evil. F

In Hindu philosophy, the concept of Supreme Truth and ignorance is deeply ingrained. The idea revolves around understanding the ultimate reality, often referred to as Brahman, and overcoming ignorance (avidya) to realize this truth. Ignorance, in this context, refers to a state of unawareness or misunderstanding about the true nature of reality. According to Hindu wisdom, those who remain ignorant of the Supreme Truth are often caught in the cycle of suffering and delusion within the material world (samsara). This ignorance leads to attachment, desire, and ultimately, suffering. However, through spiritual practices such as meditation, self-inquiry, and study of sacred texts (like the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita), one can attain realization of the Supreme Truth and liberate oneself from the cycle of birth and death. The journey towards realizing the Supreme Truth involves transcending the limitations of the ego and recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings. This realizat

In the Bhagavad Gita, particularly in Chapter 3 and Chapter 5, Lord Krishna expounds on the nature of "good work" or "right action" (karma). According to Krishna, good work is characterized by being performed with contentment, without attachment, and devoid of desire for personal gain. Here are some key aspects of this teaching: Contentment in Work (Santushti): Contentment implies a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment in performing one's duties. When one is content with their work, they are more likely to be focused and dedicated, performing their tasks with a clear mind and pure intention. This inner contentment helps one remain stable and serene regardless of the outcome. Detachment (Anasakti): Detachment, or the absence of attachment (anasakti), is a central theme in the Gita. It means performing one's duties without being emotionally attached to the results. This detachment allows one to act without being swayed by success or failure, maintaining e

The belief that full faith in Bhagavan Sri Krishna can liberate one from agony, pain, and unhappiness is rooted deeply in the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and the broader philosophy of Bhakti Yoga. Here's an overview of this concept: Bhagavad Gita and Devotion to Krishna The Bhagavad Gita, one of the most revered texts in Hindu philosophy, emphasizes the importance of devotion (bhakti) to Krishna as a path to spiritual liberation (moksha). Krishna, regarded as a supreme deity in Hinduism, assures his devotee Arjuna that unwavering faith and surrender to him can lead to liberation from the cycles of birth, death, and the associated sufferings. Key Teachings: Surrender and Trust: In Chapter 18, Verse 66, Krishna advises Arjuna to abandon all forms of duties (dharma) and simply surrender to him. He promises to free him from all sins and anxieties. Sarva-dharmān parityajya mām ekaṁ śaraṇaṁ vraja | Ahaṁ tvāṁ sarva-pāpebhyo mokṣayiṣyāmi mā śucah || Translation: "Ab

In Hinduism, the concepts of desire (kama) and anger (krodha) are often regarded as fundamental causes of sin and human suffering. This view is rooted deeply in Hindu scriptures, philosophy, and ethical teachings, which emphasize the need to overcome these powerful emotions to attain spiritual growth and ultimate liberation (moksha). Desire (Kama) as a Cause of Sin In Hindu philosophy, kama refers to sensual pleasure and material desires. While not inherently negative, as it can also denote the legitimate enjoyment of life’s pleasures within ethical bounds, unchecked and excessive kama can lead to attachment (raga) and ultimately to sin (papa). The Bhagavad Gita, one of the most revered texts in Hinduism, addresses the dangers of uncontrolled desire. In Chapter 3, Verse 37, Lord Krishna explains to Arjuna that it is desire and its counterpart, anger, that arise from the rajasic nature (the quality of passion and activity) and are the real enemies leading to sinful behavior. Krish

I discovered the use of Gayatri Mantra as a door bell on a visit to one of my friend’s house. I was surprised about it then. Later, I found that it is being sold online. The online traders says It is an alternative doorbell that does not blast into your ear; on pressing the bell a sacred chant – ‘The Gayatri Mantra’ - is played once instead. Each time you have a visitor, you get the benefit of improved psychic vibrations which occur whenever a sacred chant is activated. But I feel hearing the Gayatri Mantra at odd time will be nothing short of horror. And sometimes embarrassing too!! It will not be good to hear the mantra when indulged in activities that are completely non-religious. I am not indulging into the activities that will create embarrassment. But the mere imagination can evoke some good laugh. So is it wise to use Gayatri Mantra as Doorbell?

The Hindu newspaper today carries a photograph of Sonia Gandhi being welcomed at the Tirupati temple. Numerous politicians visit the temple and most of the newspapers give little importance to it. The visit of Sonia Gandhi was ignored by most newspapers. But somehow The Hindu did not ignore it. Why? The Hindu which claims to be the champion of secularism wanted to convey to its avid readers mostly Hindus that Sonia Gandhi is a Hindu. There is only a picture in the front page. No report about the visit. The report strangely is a very small one pushed into the far down corner of eighth page. So it is clear why the picture was published in the front page. Just to advertise that Sonia Gandhi is a Hindu. Interestingly the report has a sentence Ms. Gandhi reverentially bowed her head when they applied ‘tilak’ on her forehead. What does this sentence mean? That others don’t bow their head reverentially or to indicate that she respects Hindu values.

Bhagavan Sri Rama is often referred to as Raghav or Raghava because of his lineage. The term "Raghav" or "Raghava" essentially means "descendant of Raghu." Raghu was an illustrious king in the lineage of the Ikshvaku dynasty, to which Lord Rama belonged. In the Hindu epic Ramayana, Rama is described as the son of King Dasharatha of Ayodhya, who himself was a descendant of Raghu. Therefore, Rama is often addressed with the epithet "Raghav" or "Raghava" to honor his lineage and ancestry. This title highlights his royal lineage and adds to the reverence associated with his character. Let's delve deeper into the lineage of Bhagavan Sri Rama and the significance of his title "Raghav" or "Raghava." The lineage of Lord Rama traces back to the Ikshvaku dynasty, one of the most esteemed royal lineages in ancient India. According to Hindu scriptures, the Ikshvaku dynasty was founded by King Ikshvaku, who was a descen

Why are the Dalits barred from entering the 18th century Jagannath temple at Keradagarh in Kendrapada, Orissa?  Ignorance nothing but ignorance! When Shri Krishna visited Hastinapura as a messenger to avoid the Kurukshetra war, he found solace in the small hut of Vidhura. Not in the palace of Duryodhana . Authorities should make sure that anyone who wants to worship should be allowed in the temple. Irrespective of his/her caste, creed or religion. Not only the Jagannath temple at Keradagarh but in all temples in India . The Orissa High Court has banned the entry of all people into the temple except for priests and temple staff.  Such silly behavior of stopping a person based on caste is not part of Sanatana Dharma. It is selfishness that promotes such behavior. There is no place for such things in Hinduism. Learned and educated Hindus should come forward and put an end to such unreasonable behavior.

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, the 19th-century mystic and spiritual leader, revered by millions worldwide, offered profound insights into the practice of Shiva worship. His teachings, deeply rooted in his own direct experiences of spiritual realization, continue to inspire seekers on the path of devotion and self-realization. Unity of All Paths: Sri Ramakrishna emphasized the universality of spiritual paths. He taught that all religions lead to the same ultimate reality, and Shiva worship is one such path. Whether through the worship of Shiva, Vishnu, Allah, or any other form, the goal remains the realization of the Divine. Personal Relationship with Shiva: Sri Ramakrishna encouraged devotees to develop a personal relationship with Shiva, akin to that of a child with its parent. He advocated for sincere and heartfelt devotion, where the worshiper sees Shiva not just as a distant deity but as a close companion, ever ready to guide and protect. Simple and Pure Devotion: According t

Many foreigners often confuse between Hindi and Hindu. So here is a T-shirt to clear up the matter. Hope it is of some effect. There are several foreigners and bloggers who use Hindu instead of Hindi. And several who use Hindi instead of Hindu.  Hindi is the official language in India and most widely spoken. Bollywood movies are made in Hindi. There are more than 20 other written languages in India. Hindi is one among them. Hindu is referred to the person who practices Hinduism.

The Kazakh government has demolished more than a dozen homes of Kazakh Hindus, who are members of ISKCON. Kazakh officials have claimed that the land was transferred against Kazakh law. ISKCON devotees claim that this is not true and that this is a case of religious discrimination. On 20 November at 6 am , orders were received for the devotees to demolish their homes or to have them demolished by the state at their expense. The next day, government demolitionists arrived. By 23 November thirteen houses had been destroyed. The houses that weren't yet demolished have had their windows and window frames destroyed, making them uninhabitable in the freezing Kazakh winter. ISKCON's leader in Kazakhstan , Govinda Swami, who has attempted to raise international awareness of the problem said : "It is snowing in Kazakhstan and these folks are losing their homes. They entered one home where there was a woman with an infant and started destroying her home.” Indian governme

The Hindu religion teaches that likes and dislikes are often products of ignorance. This profound teaching is deeply rooted in the philosophy and spiritual understanding of the world. In Hinduism, ignorance, known as "avidya," is considered one of the fundamental causes of suffering and illusion in life. It's seen as a lack of understanding of the true nature of reality, including the self (atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). This ignorance leads individuals to form attachments, aversions, and preferences based on superficial and fleeting aspects of existence. Likes and dislikes emerge when the mind becomes entangled with the transient and ever-changing aspects of the material world. When one is ignorant of their true self and the interconnectedness of all beings, they tend to grasp onto fleeting pleasures and repel perceived sources of pain. This attachment to preferences can lead to suffering, as it creates a cycle of desire, aversion, and disappointment. T

In Hinduism, the concept of reaching perfection in life through work is deeply rooted in the philosophy of Karma Yoga, which is one of the paths to spiritual growth and self-realization. Karma Yoga is described extensively in sacred texts such as the Bhagavad Gita, where Lord Krishna imparts teachings to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Key Principles of Karma Yoga: Selfless Action (Nishkama Karma): Performing one's duty without attachment to the fruits of the actions is a central tenet. This means acting in accordance with one's dharma (duty/righteous path) without selfish desires or expectations of rewards. In the Bhagavad Gita (2.47), Krishna advises, "You have the right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself the cause of the results of your activities, nor be attached to inaction." Duty and Righteousness (Dharma): Each individual has a specific role and set of responsi

Hindus often prefer to hold marriages in Hindu temples for several cultural, religious, and symbolic reasons: Spiritual Significance: Divine Blessings: Temples are considered the abode of deities. Conducting the marriage in a temple ensures the couple receives the blessings of the gods and goddesses for a prosperous and happy married life. Sacred Ambiance : The temple environment is inherently sacred, promoting a sense of spirituality and sanctity during the ceremony. Cultural Tradition: Age-Old Practices: Marrying in temples is a long-standing tradition in Hindu culture, deeply embedded in the social fabric. It is seen as a continuation of practices followed by ancestors. Cultural Rituals: Temples provide the right setting for performing traditional rituals (such as 'saptapadi' or 'seven steps' and 'kanyadaan') with proper religious observances. Ritualistic Purity: Holy Fire (Agni): Many Hindu marriage rituals involve the presence of a holy fi

Hinduism, one of the oldest religions in the world, offers profound insights into the nature of human life, purpose, and fulfillment. Central to its teachings is the concept that an excessive focus on material rewards leads to suffering. This perspective is deeply embedded in various Hindu scriptures and philosophies, emphasizing the transient nature of material wealth and the enduring value of spiritual growth. The Transience of Material Wealth Hindu teachings repeatedly stress the impermanent nature of material possessions. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna explains to Arjuna that everything in the material world is fleeting and subject to change. Material wealth, status, and pleasures are transient and cannot provide lasting happiness or fulfillment. The pursuit of these temporary rewards often leads to a cycle of desire and dissatisfaction. As stated in the Gita (2:14), "O son of Kunti, the nonpermanent appearance of happiness and distress, and their disappearance in due

Hinduism, one of the oldest and most profound spiritual traditions, encompasses a rich tapestry of beliefs about the nature of existence, the self, and the universe. Central to its philosophy is the notion that the physical body is not the totality of one's being. This belief is intricately woven into the concepts of Atman (the self or soul) and Brahman (the ultimate reality), as well as the principles of karma and reincarnation. By exploring these concepts, one can understand why Hinduism asserts that the body is not everything and that there is something beyond the perishable physical form. The Concept of Atman and Brahman At the heart of Hindu philosophy is the distinction between the physical body and the Atman. The Atman is considered the true self, an eternal and indestructible essence that transcends the physical body. According to the Upanishads, the ancient philosophical texts of Hinduism, the Atman is a fragment of Brahman, the universal soul or ultimate reality that

Soul Journey from Lincoln to Lindbergh , a book written by Richard Salva, claims that Thanksgiving has a Hindu origin. Thanksgiving, or Thanksgiving Day is an annual one-day holiday to give thanks (traditionally to God) at the close of the harvest season. In the United States , Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. The book is based on a statement by the great master of yoga, Paramhansa Yogananda, who declared that Abraham Lincoln had been a Himalayan yogi in a past life, and that he was reborn as the famous aviator, Charles Lindbergh. In his book, Richard Salva presents more than 500 connections between Lincoln , Lindbergh, and the ancient spiritual science of yoga. Richard Salva says: "During my search for signs of a past-life yoga practice I noticed that President Lincoln repeatedly chose Thursdays as national days of prayer, fasting, and thanksgiving. It is because of Lincoln that we celebrate Thanksgiving on a Thur

The idol of Navneet Priyaji, the Bal Swaroop of Lord Krishna, was taken to Mathura after 330 years on October 29, 2016 from Nathwara temple. The idol originally belonged to a temple in Mathura but was taken to Nathwada about 330 years ago during Muslim persecution. This October the 17th century black marble idol of Navneet Priyaji was taken to Mathura . During the idols stay at Mathura , it was taken to Gokul, Vrindavan and Govardhan. On November 17, 2016, the idol was brought back to Nathwara. Navneet Priyaji form of Bhagavan Sri Krishna is worshipped widely in Rajasthan and Gujarat. Shree Navneet Priyaji is the baby form of Bhagavan Sri Krishna and holds Makhan in his right hand and his left hand rests on the floor. The name means one who loves butter. The first murti of this form of Bhagavan Krishna was found in the Yamuna river by a woman near Mahavan and she presented it to Shri Vallabhacharya. Followers of Shri Vallabhacharaya spread the this f

In Yahoo Chat there is a Religion and Beliefs section and in it there is a chat room on Hinduism. Yahoo says it is an open forum to discuss the deeper meanings of Hinduism. But the discussion that takes place will even shame porn chat rooms. Most of the rooms are fully occupied. So a new entrant will be send to a new room. Don’t worry, the room will become houseful soon. The next favorite theme after adult chat is Hindu and Muslim bashing. Below is a screen capture of a chat room. Some part of the pic has been covered in black, as an average reader might be disturbed by reading the blackened part. {Click on the image to see it bigger.} What a nice forum to discuss the deeper meanings of Hinduism. Update - Yahoo chat was closed on December 14, 2012.

Hindu teachings emphasize that anger can open the gates of hell because anger is considered a destructive and harmful emotion that leads to negative consequences for both the individual and others. Here are some key reasons why Hindu scriptures and teachings constantly warn against anger: Loss of Self-Control and Wisdom: Anger clouds judgment and impairs one's ability to think clearly and act rationally. It leads to impulsive actions and decisions that can have harmful repercussions. The Bhagavad Gita, one of the central texts of Hindu philosophy, states that anger arises from unfulfilled desires and leads to delusion and loss of reason (Bhagavad Gita 2.62-63). Destruction of Dharma: Dharma, or righteous conduct, is a core concept in Hinduism. Anger leads individuals away from dharma, prompting actions that are unjust, unethical, and harmful. This destruction of dharma is seen as opening the gates of hell, metaphorically representing the suffering and negative karma that resul

In Hinduism, the Earth is revered as a mother figure, known as "Bhumi" or "Prithvi," due to several interconnected cultural, mythological, and philosophical reasons: Cultural and Agricultural Significance: Agricultural Basis: Traditional Hindu society has been primarily agrarian. The Earth, providing fertile soil, water, and the means to grow crops, is seen as a nurturing and sustaining force akin to a mother. Cultural Practices: Festivals like Pongal and Makar Sankranti celebrate the harvest and honor the Earth for her abundance, reinforcing her role as a life-giver. Mythological Foundations: Vedic Texts: The Vedas, among the oldest Hindu scriptures, contain hymns praising the Earth. For instance, the Prithvi Sukta in the Atharva Veda venerates the Earth as a mother who nourishes all creatures. Hindu Epics and Puranas: In texts like the Mahabharata and various Puranas, the Earth is personified as a goddess, often depicted as a mother figure. The narra

Several newspapers had earlier reported about the efforts of Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) to restore a rare 700-year-old palm leaf manuscript on Hinduism. But the project is facing financial difficulties. BBC carries an exhaustive report on the restoration process including the financial angle missed in the earlier reports. The manuscript being restored is Sarvamoola Grantha - a collection of 36 erudite commentaries was written in Sanskrit by Sri Madvacharya (1238-1317 AD). The collection includes commentaries based on the Vedas, Upanishads, Gita, Puranas, Brahma-sutras, Mahabharata, independent philosophical tracts, a commentary on daily rites, and several hymns in praise of Gods. The manuscripts were stored at Phalimaru Matha near Udupi and Dr PR Mukund, a professor of electrical engineering at RIT saddened by the deterioration of the manuscripts took up the project. The challenges in restoring The 700 years that have passes has had its t

In Hindu philosophy, the concept of contentment, or "Santosha" ( संतोष ), is considered essential for leading a blissful and fulfilling life. Santosha is one of the five Niyamas in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, forming an integral part of the path towards spiritual growth and inner peace. Here are some key elements derived from Hindu teachings that emphasize the importance of contentment: Understanding Santosha Santosha means contentment or satisfaction. It encourages individuals to accept and appreciate what they have rather than constantly seeking more. This acceptance fosters inner peace and diminishes anxiety and dissatisfaction. Philosophical Foundations Bhagavad Gita: The Gita emphasizes performing one's duties without attachment to the results (Karma Yoga). This detachment leads to contentment, as one remains focused on righteous actions rather than their outcomes. Upanishads: The Upanishads teach that true contentment comes from self-realization and und

His name is P.I. Sherief Mohammad, Assistant Commissioner, Commercial Taxes. He has a post graduate degree in History and lives in Kerala. Organizations around the country invite him for lectures on Hindu scriptures. So what made him learn Hindu scriptures? His study of Islam and the Quran widened his horizons and made him to reach out to other religions. How many Hindus have read the Brahama Sutra? Take a look at what Sherief Mohammad says to The Hindu “Brahama Sutra – aims at seeing Brahman in everything around an in oneself. This understanding can solve all the problems of the world. If man comprehends that he and his neighbor are part of the same reality, there will be no conflict in the world.” For anyone who faces a crisis in life Mohammad suggests the Bhagavad Gita. In his words - “The entire West has realized the importance of the Bhagavad Gita. Foreign universities have included Gita in their curricula. Management gurus borrow ideas f

The 1000-year-old Chaubees Avatar Vishnu Temple on the banks of Narmada River in Khandwa District of Madhya Pradesh was trans-located about 5 km from the original location. The temple was in the submergence area of the Indira Sagar Project.  Hindustan Times reports: The work was highly technical as the temple was first documented and numbered brick by brick, dismantled and then placed at the new location in the exact sequence.  A two-metre deep foundation was dug to provide a solid base to the temple and then steel rods and the ancient formulae lime-brick cement mixture was used to reconstruct the temple brick by brick.  New rocks of suitable composition were used at the spots from where original parts were missing and the damaged rocks were treated before being put in the reconstructed structure. Some temples are relocated during major construction of dams and roads. But many of them are ignored. Some of these temples are submerged throughout the year but

The epic Mahabharata is a vast and complex narrative that weaves together themes of duty, righteousness, and morality. Among its many characters, Dhritarashtra, the blind king of Hastinapura and father of Kauravas, stands out as a potent symbol of spiritual and moral blindness. This symbolism is deeply interwoven into the narrative, highlighting the ethical and philosophical dimensions of the epic. Dhritarashtra's Physical Blindness Dhritarashtra's physical blindness is a clear and literal characteristic that defines him from the outset. Born blind, he is unable to see the world around him, relying on others to describe events and actions. This literal blindness can be seen as a metaphor for his inability to perceive the moral and ethical dimensions of the situations he faces. His reliance on external sources for information leaves him susceptible to manipulation, particularly by his son Duryodhana and his advisor Shakuni. Moral and Spiritual Blindness While his physica

Holy books in Hinduism were rendered orally. It was written down much later. And most the original texts are no longer available. When the scriptures were written down several additions and deletions were made. Many writers often twisted the Holy Scriptures for the selfish needs of their community. Sudheendra Kulkarni writes about one such incident in the Sunday express. From Tulsi Ramayana: “Dhola gawanra sudra pasu naari, sakala taadan ke adhikari” (A drum, a rustic, a sudra, a beast and a woman - all these deserve to be beaten.) He feels there is a need to reinterpret, and in some places modify, those aspects of our religious texts that are outdated. I agree with him. Most of the Holy Scriptures in Hinduism has undergone several alterations during the past 5000 years. Most of these alterations were done with ulterior motives. As most of these lines are not in tune with the main theme of the scriptures. One example: Valmiki composed the Ra

The concept that the practice of self-control leads one to realize unity with the Absolute is a profound teaching in Hindu philosophy. This principle can be understood through various texts and practices within Hinduism, such as the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and the Upanishads. Self-Control in Hindu Philosophy Self-Control and the Mind: Bhagavad Gita: In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna on the importance of self-control (Sanskrit: dama) for spiritual growth. Krishna explains that controlling the mind and senses is crucial for achieving a higher state of consciousness and ultimately realizing one's unity with the divine (Brahman). Example: Krishna says, "For him who has conquered the mind, the mind is the best of friends; but for one who has failed to do so, the mind will remain the greatest enemy" (Bhagavad Gita 6.6). Yoga and Self-Discipline: Yoga Sutras of Patanjali: Patanjali outlines the eight limbs of y

The first look at the baby girl from Diuri village in Bihar will reveal that she has four hands and four legs. But on a second look it becomes evident that it is nothing but tumor. Several news channels had reported about the baby girl earlier. Several newspapers are now reporting it. The remote village about 100 km from Patna is thronged by thousands of people who believe the young infant is an incarnation of Durga. They believe that her birth is an indication that their sufferings will be soon alleviated. The clever father of the child has started collecting donation. He plans to bring up the child in the present form. Hope sense prevails and the baby is treated before something untoward happens. Such birth related deformation are equated with divinity by people. 

The Mahabharata, an epic narrative from ancient India, is a treasure trove of wisdom, moral dilemmas, and human emotions. Among its myriad themes, the jealousy of Duryodhana and the consequent destruction of the Kuru clan stand out as poignant lessons on the perils of envy, unchecked ambition, and moral decay. The saga of Duryodhana's envy and its catastrophic impact on the Kuru dynasty offers timeless insights relevant to personal and societal conduct. The Roots of Duryodhana's Jealousy Duryodhana, the eldest of the Kauravas, harbored deep-seated jealousy towards his cousins, the Pandavas. This envy was not just a momentary feeling but a consuming force that shaped his actions and decisions. From a young age, Duryodhana felt overshadowed by the valor, wisdom, and righteousness of the Pandavas, especially Yudhishthira's claim to the throne. This jealousy was exacerbated by his father's partiality towards the Pandavas, despite his own father being the reigning king.