When dalits are restricted in some temples, for a change the Mahavir temple in Patna has a Dalit priest. The temple has Hanuman and Buddha as deities and Suryavanshi Das has been the priest for the past nine years. The Mahavir temple is associated with the Ramanand sect. Hindustan Times Reports “I live here without fear. There are no restrictions on my coming here and all have a cordial relation with me. There was discrimination in the early days. It continued for a year or two but now there is nothing like that,” said Suryavanshi Das – the priest. Hope there will be more temples with dalit priests. Hope there will be no temple which restricts people in the name of caste and creed. Hindu Temples across India are now witnessing such change. But there are still pockets were caste plays an important role is social life. This tight grip on caste system is primarily promoted today by politicians as they see it as a vote bank. If Hindus can join and fight ag

In Hindu philosophy, the concepts of Prakriti and Purusha are fundamental in understanding the nature of existence and the universe. These two principles are central to the Sankhya school of Hindu thought, which posits that all forms of existence arise from the interaction of these dual realities. Prakriti, often translated as "nature" or "matter," represents the physical, tangible, and dynamic aspect of the universe. In contrast, Purusha, meaning "spirit" or "consciousness," embodies the static, unchanging, and passive essence. Together, they explain the creation, maintenance, and dissolution of the cosmos and all forms of life within it. Prakriti: The Dynamic Force Prakriti is the primal matter or substance that constitutes the physical world. It is the source of all material phenomena and is characterized by three fundamental qualities or gunas: Sattva (balance, harmony), Rajas (activity, passion), and Tamas (inertia, darkness). These guna

Perseverance holds a critical place in the spiritual journey according to Hindu teachings. Rooted deeply in the scriptures and philosophical traditions, perseverance, or "Shraddha" and "Sadhana" (persistent practice), is emphasized as essential for spiritual growth and realization of the ultimate truth or self. Scriptural Foundations Bhagavad Gita: The Bhagavad Gita, one of the most revered texts in Hindu philosophy, repeatedly emphasizes the importance of perseverance. Lord Krishna advises Arjuna that steadfastness in duty and discipline in spiritual practice (yoga) are vital for self-realization. Verses like 6.23-24 highlight that through constant practice (Abhyasa) and detachment (Vairagya), one can control the mind and achieve spiritual goals. Upanishads: These ancient texts underscore the journey of the soul towards Moksha (liberation) through continuous effort. The Katha Upanishad, for instance, states that the path to the highest truth is akin to walkin

Hindu scriptures place a strong emphasis on contentment as a cornerstone for achieving a blissful life on Earth. This principle is deeply rooted in various philosophical and practical aspects of Hindu thought. Here are several reasons why contentment is highlighted: Spiritual Growth and Inner Peace Contentment, or "santosha" in Sanskrit, is considered vital for spiritual growth and inner peace. It is one of the key virtues in the "Yamas" and "Niyamas" (ethical guidelines) in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. By cultivating contentment, individuals learn to appreciate what they have, reducing desires and the constant pursuit of material gains. This helps in achieving mental tranquility and a deeper connection with the divine. Reduction of Suffering In Hindu philosophy, particularly in the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and various Upanishads, it is understood that desires and attachments are primary sources of human suffering. Contentment helps in reduc

Karma Creatives Inc. is selling aromatherapy sprays, bath crystals and hand lotions which will help you to have good karma. The herbal products contain ginseng, lavender and peppermint. So will this ‘Can Karma’ help? Karma traditionally is defined as the principle of action and reaction that leads to an individual's deeds coming back in one way or another, said Sannyasin Arumugaswami, managing editor of Hinduism Today magazine. "You're not going to protect your karma by spraying something," he said of Karma Creatives' product.  The range of karma product is $6 to $8. It will be great to get a good karma for such a price. People find different ways of making money. The most interesting aspect is that there are people who are ready to buy ‘good karma in Can. ’ Update - this Karma business died long back. The official website is no longer active and is on for sale. 

In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna reveals his Vishwaroopa, also known as Virata Rupa or the Universal Form, in Chapter 11. This chapter is titled "Vishwaroopa Darshana Yoga" or "The Yoga of the Vision of the Universal Form." In this chapter, Arjuna expresses a desire to see Krishna's cosmic form, a desire that Krishna fulfills by granting him divine vision. This form is described as vast and awe-inspiring, encompassing the entire universe within it. It includes countless divine manifestations and the forms of numerous deities, and it conveys the infinite nature and omnipresence of Krishna. The vision is both magnificent and terrifying, symbolizing the limitless power and divine essence of Krishna. The significance of this chapter is profound as it illustrates the transcendental nature of Krishna and reinforces the teachings about the imperishable and eternal aspects of the divine. Arjuna's experience of the Vishwaroopa underscores the message of devotio

The sixth chapter of the Bhagavad Gita is known as "Dhyana Yoga" because it primarily focuses on the practice and principles of meditation (dhyana) as a means to achieve spiritual enlightenment and self-realization. Here are the key reasons why this chapter is named "Dhyana Yoga": Emphasis on Meditation: The chapter provides detailed instructions on how to practice meditation. It describes the importance of finding a quiet place, sitting in a comfortable and stable posture, and focusing the mind to attain inner peace and spiritual insight. Mind Control and Concentration: Krishna explains the importance of controlling the mind and concentrating it on a single point to achieve success in meditation. This process of focusing and calming the mind is central to dhyana. Union Through Meditation: The term "yoga" means union, and "dhyana yoga" specifically refers to the union with the divine or the self through the practice of meditation. This cha

Thousands of people get separated from their families and friends during the Kumbh Mela at Allahabad . Eighty-year-old Raja Ram Tiwari will open his lost and found camp during the Ardh Kumbh Mela of 2007. He has been doing this during the Magh month for the past 60 years. The number of people getting separated from their families increases during the Kumbh Melas. Raja Ram Tiwari is popularly known as Bhule Bhatke Tiwari. He has so far helped more than 630,000 people to meet their families. Not all the lost people are lucky says Tiwari. The original source BBC (http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/6197157.stm) not linking back as the site is no https. He narrates the story of a deaf woman who got separated from her husband at the fair a few years ago.  "She was picked up by a rich family who took her away to their village. Her husband came to us looking for her. After searching for her for several days, I told the man to go back to his village and retur

Significance of Kumbha Mela is that it offers the chance to attain liberation from the endless suffering of existence and to merge with the Brahman. In ancient times, Kumbh Mela was meant for the great minds in Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism) to meet and discuss and share knowledge for the welfare of the living beings. Decisions and new findings in philosophy and science taken during the Kumbh Mela were then carried by the Saints to different parts of the world. The legend of Kumbh Mela begins with the search of Amrut in Puranas. Brahma Purana and Vishnu Purana state that bathing in month of Magh at Prayag or Sangam ( Allahabad ) is equal to millions of Ashvamedha rituals. The bathing ritual is equal to circumambulating the earth one million times. The Kumbh Mela bathing ritual also washes away sins of several generations. Rig Veda also talks about the importance of the confluence of Ganges , Yamuna and the mythical river Saraswathi at Prayag. The importance of the ritual can t

Lohachara Island , in the Sundarbans in West Bengal , once home to 10,000 people, has disappeared beneath the seas. Lohachara Island is the first inhabited island to be swallowed by the rising sea. Environmentalists claim it is the first casualty of Global Warming. Suparibhanga, a nearby uninhabited island, has also vanished. Two-third part of Ghoramara Island has also been permanently inundated. The area is home to the famous Royal Bengal Tigers. Subhra Priyadarshini writes in the Telegraph “There’s nothing any more where our island once was. It’s just a huge stretch of sea where vessels ply,” says Shamila’s father Seikh Abdullah, among the first batch of envirogees (environment refugees) who have now settled in Sagar. Nearly 7,000 of his former island mates are his neighbors again. A dozen islands in the area are under threat. Environmentalists and climate scientists are predicting a grim future for many of the islands and coastal cities around th

The fifth chapter of the Bhagavad Gita is known as "Karma Sanyasa Yoga" for several reasons, each rooted in the philosophical and spiritual teachings presented in this section of the text. "Karma Sanyasa Yoga" translates to the "Yoga of Renunciation of Action," and the chapter explores the relationship between performing one's duties (karma) and renouncing attachment to the fruits of those actions (sanyasa). Here’s an expansion on why this chapter is given such a name: Interconnection of Karma and Sanyasa: The chapter delves into the intricate balance between active engagement in the world (karma) and the renunciation of personal desires and outcomes (sanyasa). It explains that true sanyasa (renunciation) is not the mere physical renunciation of actions but the mental detachment from the results of those actions. Clarification of True Renunciation: Krishna clarifies to Arjuna that true renunciation is not about abandoning one’s duties but perfo

Lenox - the Chinese, US gift and collectible major - released 15-inch-tall and 12-inch-wide idol of Lord Ganesha in June. Simmi Chopra - who sells Lenox Classics at her Mitzi's Hallmark and Collectibles Shop at Lake Buena Vista , Orlando - introduced the idea of Hindu idols to Lenox executives. Lenox after much deliberation brought out a limited-edition of 1000 pieces with Simmi Chopra as the sole retailer. Kelly Griffith writes in Orlando Sentinel The Lenox company, founded in the late 1880s, guarantees satisfaction: You don't like it, bring it back. Ganesha's dozens of formed pieces, 100 attached crystals, 15 hand-painted colors and 24-karat-gold trim made the large porcelain bone-china statue a particular challenge. It took three years to complete the project. Multiple molds were tried and trashed along the way. The first piece was donated to the Hindu Temple of Greater Orlando in Casselberry . Second was sold for a price of $2000.

NDTV carried this unique story of Jhiri village in Rajgarh District of Madhya Pradesh where people converse in Sanskrit. The people have renewed interest in the language. Almost all the people in the village make use of Sanskrit for communication. They feel the language has made them more civilized and cultured. There are such efforts being made by villages to bring back Sanskrit. When lot of foreign universities are showing keen interest in Sanskrit many of our universities and politicians are attempting to malign the study of Sanskrit. Even Sanskrit has become politicized in this country.

The fourth chapter of the Bhagavad Gita is known as "Jnana Yoga," which translates to the "Yoga of Knowledge" or the "Path of Knowledge." This chapter is designated as such because it primarily focuses on imparting spiritual wisdom and understanding the nature of knowledge and its role in achieving liberation (moksha). Here are the key reasons why this chapter is called Jnana Yoga: Emphasis on Knowledge The fourth chapter extensively discusses the importance of knowledge (jnana) in the spiritual journey. Lord Krishna explains the significance of understanding the eternal truths and the wisdom passed down through the ages. He emphasizes that true knowledge dispels ignorance and leads to enlightenment. Explanation of Divine Knowledge and Transmission Krishna reveals to Arjuna the ancient lineage of spiritual wisdom, explaining how this knowledge has been passed down through a succession of saintly kings. He describes how he himself taught this eterna

Mithuna Rashi Shiva mantra is a personal and special mantra for Mithuna Rashi or Gemini born people. Chanting this mantra, dedicated to Lord Shiva, will help in getting a job. It will help in solving financial problems and ideal mantra for early marriage. Below is the Mithuna rashi mantra dedicated to Shiva. Benefits of the prayer and a brief procedure on how to chant the mantra is given below. Mithuna Rashi Shiva Mantra ब्रीं ॐ नम : शिवाय ब्रीं Breem Om Namah Shivaya Breem Benefits of Mithuna Rashi Shiva Mantra A perfect solution to all kinds of problems related to bad positioning of Navgrahas in Janam Kundli or horoscope of Mithuna Rashi born people. For early job. To find relief to health issues. Good for those having problems in family as it will help in better understanding among family members. Chanting of mantra will help in solving relationship issues. How to Chant Mithuna Rashi Shiva Mantra? Chant the mantra on all Mondays; and when there

Daily prayer and puja (ritual worship) hold significant importance in Hinduism. For many Hindus, these practices are a cornerstone of their spiritual life and devotion. Here's why they're important: Connection with the Divine: Daily prayer and puja serve as a means to connect with the divine, whether it's through chanting mantras, offering flowers, or performing rituals. It's a way to cultivate a personal relationship with the deities and express devotion. Spiritual Discipline: Regular prayer and puja instill discipline and structure in one's spiritual life. It helps devotees to maintain a sense of continuity and commitment to their religious practices. Cleansing and Purification: Puja often involves rituals that cleanse the mind, body, and soul. It's believed that through these rituals, one can purify oneself from negative energies and impurities, fostering spiritual growth and development. Expressing Gratitude: Daily prayer allows devotees to express

Bagh Devi Temple is an important Shakti stal at Kulada in Ganjam District, Odisha. The shrine is located around 8 km from Bhanjanagar and around 89 km north of Chhatrapur. There are two shrines here Upper Bagh Devi and Lower Bagh Devi. The Upper Bagh Devi Temple is located atop a hill and one has to navigate broken 210 steps. As it is very tough climbing the hill, a new temple was constructed downhill. People now offer worship here. Festivals and Auspicious days in Bagh Devi Temple The auspicious days in the shrine are Sankranti day of every month. Thakurani Yatra every three years. Rath Yatra in Ashada, Dola Purnima during Holi, Navratri and Dasara and Ashok Ashtami are other important dates here. People arrive in large number to offer prayers during auspicious occasions. They offer prayers to overcome diseases, for victory over enemies and to have desires fulfilled. Married couples offer prayers for good and health children. It is believed prayers offered h

In Hindu teachings, the concept of work is deeply intertwined with the principles of dharma (duty), karma (action), and moksha (liberation). According to these teachings, there are three fundamental kinds of work: Pure Work (Nishkama Karma): Pure work, or Nishkama Karma, is considered the highest form of work. It is characterized by performing one's duties and responsibilities without any attachment to the results, emotions, or desires. In essence, it involves selflessly engaging in actions solely because they are one's duty, without expecting any personal gain or outcome. This approach emphasizes the importance of detachment and selflessness in action, focusing instead on the inherent righteousness of fulfilling one's obligations. Work of Energy (Sakama Karma): Work of energy, or Sakama Karma, is performed with attachment and desire. Unlike pure work, it involves undertaking actions with the expectation of specific outcomes or rewards. While this type of work is not inhe

A live concert DVD of Devi Kshetra Kritis by M. Lalitha and M. Nandini has been brought out by Santhananda Soundscapes. The album features compositions on the different female (Devi) deities in Chidambaram, Madurai , Kancheepuram, Pudukottai, Tiruvaiyaru, Tirunelveli, and Thirumayilai. The DVD also features visuals of the deities and the temples. The album includes the compositions of Thyagaraja, Muthuswamy Dikshithar, Subbaraya Sastri, Gopalakrishna Bharati, Harikesanallur Muthiah Bhagavathar, and Papanasam Sivan.  Devi Kshetra Kritis is available at The Sankara Hall, Alwarpet, Chennai. For more details: Mob: 98401 22729.

The treasure was unearthed at the entrance of the Angala Amman Temple at Maligai Chetti Street in Kanchipuram. The crow bar of one of the workers who were digging a pit for an underground project accidentally hit a pot and broke it. When the workers removed the pot, they found a silver crown, used to adorn the Amman and a copper plate etched with nearly 21 images of goddess Amman with Kanchi Kamatchi Amman in the center. Officials after ascertaining the exact date will decide whether to hand over the treasures to the temple or to the archeological department. Such treasures are hidden in many temples. People fearing attacks from Muslim invaders had buried treasure in many places. But the exact location was never passed on to the next generation.

Navya Shastra (www.shastras.org), the international Hindu reform organization, has issued an apology to all those people who have suffered and are suffering from the evil caste system. STATEMENT OF APOLOGY We, at Navya Shastra, deeply regret and apologise for the atrocities committed on the sons and daughters of the depressed communities of India , including the tribals, the "untouchables" and all of the castes deemed as low.  We shamefully acknowledge that the ideals of varna and its practical manifestation in castes (jatis), promoted and encouraged the notions of inequality, lesser and greater, high and low, superior and inferior among human beings. An ideal that does not aspire for equality of human beings is not worthy of being an ideal.  Caste and varna have relegated many to a degradingly low status. This was a divisive, inhumane and a ruinous social construct. Navya Shastra fully recognises this and rejects unequivocally as heinous and d

The statement "Ignorance is seeing a single incident as the whole" encapsulates a profound insight attributed to the wisdom of Hindu Rishis, or sages. Let's delve deeper into its implications. At its core, this statement challenges the human tendency to generalize based on isolated experiences. Ignorance, in this context, refers not merely to a lack of knowledge but to a limited perspective that fails to grasp the complexity and nuances of reality. When we hastily judge or form conclusions based on a single event or instance, we overlook the broader context and overlook the multifaceted nature of truth. The wisdom of Hindu Rishis encourages us to cultivate a more expansive awareness, one that recognizes the interconnectedness of all things and acknowledges the diversity of perspectives and experiences. Rather than rushing to judgment or clinging to simplistic interpretations, true wisdom involves patient inquiry, empathy, and a willingness to embrace ambiguity. In pra

Karka Rashi Shiva mantra is a personal and special mantra for Karka Rashi or Cancer born people. Chanting this mantra, dedicated to Lord Shiva, will help in getting in wealth and prosperity. It will help in solving relationship issues and it is ideal for early marriage. Below is the Karka rashi mantra dedicated to Shiva. Benefits of the prayer and a brief procedure on how to chant the mantra is given below. Karka Rashi Shiva Mantra श्रां ॐ नम : शिवाय श्रां Shram Om Namah Shivaya Shram Benefits of Karka Rashi Shiva Mantra A perfect solution to all kinds of problems related to bad positioning of Navgrahas in Janam Kundli or horoscope of Karka Rashi born people. It is good for those who wish to get married to a person already known. It helps in overcoming all kinds of wealth related issues. The mantra will help in defeating enemies. It is ideal for artists and musicians. How to Chant Karka Rashi Shiva Mantra? Chant the mantra on all Mondays; and when

Indore ’s Mohammad Yusuf is in his 70s and is a practicing Muslim. Recently he conducted at 51-hour long recitation of Hindu scriptures to strengthen Hindu-Muslim unity. He recited the Sunderkand from Tulsidas' Ramayana, the Ganesh Vandana, the Hanuman Chaalisa and some passages from the Kishkindha Kand and Bal Kand of Ramayana. This simple and innocent man believes that his attempt will bring peace among the two communities. He is facing hardships in his attempts but is not bothered about the minor hiccups. What India needs today is more people like Mohammad Yusuf who practice what they preach and shows an example for others to follow. When true knowledge dawns nothing but only a smile remains. Earlier: This Muslim lectures about Hindu scriptures

"Knowledge Is Pure When One Is Seen In The Many" is a profound teaching from Hindu philosophy, particularly resonating with the concepts found in the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita. This teaching underscores the vision of seeing the unity underlying the apparent diversity of the world. Understanding the Concept: Advaita Vedanta: Non-Dualism: At the heart of this teaching is the Advaita Vedanta philosophy, which posits that the true nature of reality is non-dual (Advaita). This means that at the deepest level, there is no separation between the individual soul (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). Brahman and Atman: According to Advaita, Brahman is the singular, infinite consciousness that pervades everything. The Atman, or individual self, is not different from Brahman. Recognizing this non-dual nature is considered pure knowledge. The Upanishads: Tat Tvam Asi: One of the Mahavakyas (great sayings) from the Upanishads is "Tat Tvam Asi" which me

Simha Rashi Shiva mantra is a personal and special mantra for Simha Rashi or Leo Zodiac born people. Chanting this mantra, dedicated to Lord Shiva, will help in desire fulfillment. It will help in solving career issues and it is ideal for those looking for job abroad. Below is the Simha rashi mantra dedicated to Shiva. Benefits of the prayer and a brief procedure on how to chant the mantra is given below. Simha Rashi Shiva Mantra ह्रौं ॐ नम : शिवाय ह्रौं Hroum Om Namah Shivaya Hroum Benefits of Simha Rashi Shiva Mantra A perfect solution to all kinds of problems related to bad positioning of Navgrahas in Janam Kundli or horoscope of Simha Rashi born people. It is ideal for those people wishing to have a job in foreign country. Helps in desire fulfillment related to romance and love. Destruction of enemies. Helps in achieving fame and fortune. How to Chant Simha Rashi Shiva Mantra? Chant the mantra on all Mondays; and when there is Simha Rashi i

The expert committee constituted to study and rectify the damage in some of the stone pillars, beams and roof slabs of Madurai Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple has decided to replace some structures. The Hindu reports The decision was taken at a recent meeting in Chennai. According to the minutes of the meeting, a copy of which is available with The Hindu , it has also decided to replace the cracked stone beam at the entrance of Meenakshi Nayakar Mandapam adjacent to Ashtasakthi Mandapam. The new structures, which will replace the existing ones, will be of same design. The size and shape of the pillars and beams (to be replaced) should be recorded and photographs taken before commencing the dismantling work, the committee said. (The Hindu reports)

Kumbh Mela is a sacred holy pilgrimage  in Hinduism that takes in four important locations in India . The pilgrimage takes place once in twelve years in Allahabad , Nasik , Ujjain and Haridwar. Ardh Kumbh Mela or Half-Kumbh Mela takes place in these four locations during the sixth year of the twelve year cycle.  The legend of Kumbh Mela can be traced back to the Puranas. The same legend applies to Ardh Kumbh Mela. Each location – Allahabad , Nasik , Ujjain and Haridwar – will have an Ardh Kumbh Mela once in 12 years. At Allahabad in the Hindu month of Magha (January-February) - 1995, 2007, 2019… At Haridwar in the Hindu month of Caitra (March-April) - 1992, 2004, 2016… At Nasik in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (August-September) - 1997, 2009, 2021 At Ujjain in the Hindu month of Vaisakha (April-May) - 1998, 2010, 2022… The Ardh Kumbh Mela in Allahabad and Haridwar is of great importance.  There is not much significance in the other two places.

Himachal Pradesh, a northern Indian state in the Himalayas, is often referred to as "Dev Bhoomi," which translates to "Land of the Gods." This nickname is attributed to several factors deeply rooted in the region's culture, history, and geography: Mythological Significance: Himachal Pradesh is rich in Hindu tradition and legends. Many ancient texts and epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana mention this region. It is believed to be the abode of many Hindu gods and goddesses. Several significant events in these epics are said to have taken place here. Numerous Temples: The state is dotted with countless temples, many of which are ancient and hold significant religious importance. These temples, often situated in picturesque and serene locations, attract devotees and tourists alike. Notable temples include the Hidimba Devi Temple in Manali, the Jakhoo Temple in Shimla, and the Chamunda Devi Temple in Kangra. Every village has a god and goddess (Devi – Devata)

The third chapter of the Bhagavad Gita is known as "Karma Yoga" because it focuses on the concept of selfless action, or performing one's duty without attachment to the results. In this chapter, Krishna explains to Arjuna the importance and principles of Karma Yoga as a path to spiritual liberation. Here are some key points explaining why this chapter is called Karma Yoga: Definition of Karma Yoga: Karma Yoga is the path of action. It teaches individuals to perform their duties (karma) in accordance with their dharma (moral and societal duties) without attachment to the fruits or outcomes of these actions. The word "Yoga" in this context means a path to spiritual practice. Emphasis on Duty and Action: In this chapter, Krishna emphasizes that everyone must engage in action, as it is impossible to renounce action entirely. He advises Arjuna to fulfill his Kshatriya duty as a warrior without selfish desires or personal gain. Selfless Action: Krishna expl

There are two important stories regarding the origin of Kumbh Mela . Both of them are traced back to the Puranas. The most important and widely accepted myth starts in the Bhagavad Purana. Puranas are filled with wars between Devas (demigods ) and Asuras (demons). The Devas always have the upper hand but occasionally due to some curse or misdeeds the Devas lose this upper hand. Lord Indra, the king of Devas, was once cursed by Sage Durvasa and as the result of this curse, Demons overpowered the Devas. To find a solution the Devas approached Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu advised them to obtain Amrut - ‘the nectar of immortality.’ To obtain the Amrut the Devas should churn the ocean. Mandara Mountain agreed to be the churning rod and Vasuki, the serpent agreed, to be the rope. To churn the ocean the Devas needed the help of Asuras as the Devas could only hold one-end of the rope. But Devas was not willing to share the Amrut with Asuras. Finally, without any o

Kumbh Mela or Kumbha Mela is a sacred holy pilgrimage in Hinduism and takes place at four holy locations in India – Allahabad , Nasik , Ujjain and Haridwar. Earlier, it used be a gathering of Holy men and Sadhus to discuss about Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism). Today, pilgrims from around the world take part in Kumbh Mela. ‘Kumbh’ means pot and ‘Mela’ means fair.  The Kumbh Mela lasts for more than a month and is determined by astrological calculations. Each location – Allahabad , Nasik , Ujjain and Haridwar – will have a Mahakumbh Mela or Kumbh Mela once in 12 years. At Allahabad in the Hindu month of Magha (January-February) - 1989, 2001, 2012, 2024…. At Haridwar in the Hindu month of Chaitra (March-April) - 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022…. At Nasik in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (August-September) - 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027… At Ujjain in the Hindu month of Vaisakha (April-May) - 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028… During the twelve year cycle, there is an

Time magazine has named ‘You’ the netizen as this year's ‘Person of the Year 2006.’ Reuters reports: "For seizing the reins of the global media, for founding and framing the new digital democracy, for working for nothing and beating the pros at their own game, Time's Person of the Year for 2006 is you," Lev Grossman wrote. So you and I have become the Time’s person of the year. But who was the first Indian to be the Time’s person of the year? In fact he is the lone Indian in that long list which starts in 1927. Yes, it was Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi in 1930. From Times Curiously, it was in a jail that the year's end found the little half-naked brown man whose 1930 mark on world history will undoubtedly loom largest of all. It was exactly twelve months ago that Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi's Indian National Congress promulgated the Declaration of Indian Independence . It was in March that he marched to the sea to defy Brita