The story of Shiva and Gajasura from the Shiva Purana offers several profound lessons and insights, reflective of the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology. Here are some key lessons: 1. The Nature of Devotion Gajasura, a demon in the form of an elephant, is depicted as a devout worshipper of Lord Shiva. Despite his demonic form and tendencies, his devotion to Shiva is sincere and intense. This illustrates that true devotion transcends external appearances and inherent nature. It underscores the idea that sincere devotion can exist in the most unexpected places and forms. 2. The Importance of Humility Gajasura’s story teaches the importance of humility in devotion. Despite his devotion, Gajasura harbors arrogance, believing that his penance and devotion entitle him to special boons. This pride ultimately leads to his downfall. The story emphasizes that true devotion should be coupled with humility and selflessness. 3. The Power of Transformation When Lord Shiva grants Gajasura t

Ayushya Suktam or Ayushyasukta, a revered hymn in Hinduism, is specifically intended to increase the duration of life. This hymn is part of various religious practices, particularly those involving a havana or homa (ritual offerings into a sacred fire), using Vedic mantras. These practices are prescribed in ancient texts such as the Bodhayana-grhyasutras (3.7). Key Aspects of Ayushya Suktam Purpose: The primary aim of Ayushya Sukta is to pray for a long and healthy life. Alternative Name: It is also known as Ghrtasukta because ghrta (clarified butter or ghee) is used as an oblation with each mantra. Origin: While the mantras are of Vedic origin, their exact source has not been definitively traced. Structure: The Sukta consists of nine mantras. Each mantra is accompanied by the word ‘svaha’ at the end during the offering of ghee. Summary of the Hymn The Ayushya Sukta invokes various deities, seeking their blessings for a long life. Below is a brief summary of each mantra w

After abandoning Lanka, Vibhishana was plagued by doubts about whether Rama would accept him. Seeking guidance, he decided to consult his elder brother Kubera, who resided on Mount Kailasha and was a close friend of Shiva. "My mind is restless," Vibhishana confided to his friends. "I plan to visit my eldest brother, Kubera, who lives in Kailash and is a friend of Shiva." His friends agreed, and using the path of the sky, Vibhishana and his companions swiftly reached the majestic Kailash. From his divine abode, Shiva observed their arrival and remarked to Parvati, "Look there, Vibhishana is coming to meet his brother. He tried to reason with Ravana but was insulted. If Kubera cannot convince him to join Rama, then I must intervene. It is crucial for Vibhishana to ally with Rama, for only then will Ravana meet his end." Shiva instructed Nandi to prepare his bullock. With Parvati seated in front, Shiva mounted the bullock, and they made their way to K

Recently the Guinness World Records had certified BAPS Akshardham temple in Delhi as the world’s largest Hindu temple. But is it really the largest temple in the world? The doubt arises when the large temple complexes in Tamil Nadu are taken into account. Akshardham is 356 ft long and 316 ft wide, its grounds covers 86,342 sq ft. The total area of the temple complex is 32 acres of land. Madurai Meenakshi Temple is 850 ft long and 800 ft wide. The total area of the complex is 17 acres. Other temples in Tamil Nadu that might challenge the Guinness World Records are the Thiruvannamalai Shiva Temple , Srirangam Sri Ranganthaswamy Temple complex and Thiruvarur Temple . The above picture is of the Thiruvannamalai Shiva Temple. Hindustan Times reports When informed that the entire Akshardham complex was spread over 30 acres, said B Raja, joint commissioner of the Meenakshi Temple , said, ‘A temple is a place for prayer. It is incorrect to include facilities

Arti, a ritual of worship in Hinduism, involves the waving of lamps before deities, saints, or objects of veneration. This practice, deeply embedded in the daily life of Hindus, is more than a mere ritual; it is believed to sanctify and purify the atmosphere. Here’s a detailed exploration of how and why Arti holds such significance in Hindu traditions: 1. Symbolism of Light in Hinduism Divine Presence: Light symbolizes the presence of the divine. The lamp, often an oil or ghee lamp, represents the presence of God, and the light dispels darkness, both physical and metaphorical. Knowledge and Wisdom: Light is also a symbol of knowledge and wisdom. In Hindu philosophy, ignorance (Avidya) is akin to darkness, and knowledge (Vidya) is akin to light. By waving the lamp, devotees seek enlightenment and wisdom from the divine. 2. Sanctification Through Fire Purification: Fire is considered a purifying element in Hinduism. The waving of the lamp (Arti) is believed to cleanse the envir

Kauai Hindu Temple under construction on Hawaii Island fashioned a foundation in which 60% of the usual portland cement is replaced with fly ash. The all stone Iravian Temple in Kauai , Hawaii , is dedicated to Lord Shiva and the construction which began in 1990 is still in progress. Hinduism Today Magazine reports ‘To create the two 6,500sf pads for the stone temple, the architects used only 80 tons of cement, instead of the 230 tons of cement and 75 tons of steel required with conventional reinforced concrete.’ With cement production now contributing more than 6% of global greenhouse gases and growing fast, alternative construction methods are mandatory. By mixing in some fly ash, we could reduce cement use by half. Prof Mehta, an expert on concrete and fly ash and who helped in the construction, says, ‘This demonstrates a revolutionary method of concrete construction which, if widely adopted could save millions of dollars a year, create structures to last far longer than th

Hinduism is a profoundly rich and diverse spiritual tradition, capable of fulfilling the spiritual aspirations of a wide variety of seekers. Its depth is reflected in the inclusive nature of its practices and beliefs, which accommodate different phases and levels of religious consciousness. This inclusivity manifests in a myriad of worship forms and rituals that cater to various spiritual needs and cultural contexts. One of the unique features of Hinduism is its ability to incorporate the worship of ancestors, known as Pitru Puja or Pitru Tarpan. This practice honors deceased family members, acknowledging their continued influence on the living. It reflects a deep respect for lineage and the belief in the ongoing connection between the living and the departed. Hinduism also embraces the worship of spirits and deities in numerous forms, including those that represent natural elements and local heroes. This flexibility allows practitioners to see the divine in everything around them,

A collection of quotes of Prahlad Chandra Brahmachari. By true Satsang, the mind is purified and the intelligence is clear about the inner being. If intelligence is clear, then ‘Divyagyan’ or God's true self is revealed. By ‘Divyagan’ we can have darshan of God, who is within us all. Love is the main thing. You can do japa, chant mantras, or do worship, but if you do not have love then all these things are worthless. If you want to have some coconut, first you have to remove the husk, then break through the hard shell to find the coconut. This illusion of self has been with us for a long time, so it is hard to break. But we all have to try very hard to do this. When the ego is removed, then in its place we will have devotion. Devotion means complete love. This devotion is what we are looking for. Explanation Love is the main thing. You ... things are worthless. Love is a fundamental aspect of many spiritual and religious traditions. It's often considered the

Hinduism is a vast and intricate tapestry of beliefs, practices, and traditions that has evolved over millennia. Its depth and diversity are unparalleled, making it capable of fulfilling the spiritual aspirations of a wide range of seekers. The religion's richness lies in its ability to embrace and integrate various phases and levels of religious consciousness, accommodating the unique spiritual needs and inclinations of individuals. Embracing Diverse Practices Hinduism is inclusive of an extensive array of practices and rituals, reflecting the multifaceted nature of human spirituality. Some of these practices include: Worship of Ancestors and Spirits: Many Hindus engage in rituals that honor their ancestors, believing that their blessings and guidance are vital for the well-being of the living. Similarly, the worship of spirits, often tied to local deities or guardians, forms an essential part of the religious landscape, especially in rural areas. Child and Female Deities

A collection of quotes on dance form of Shiva - Nataraja "The dance of Shiva symbolizes the cosmic cycles of creation and destruction, the rhythm of birth and death. It is the dance of the universe itself." - Fritjof Capra, Physicist and Author "Nataraja, the Lord of Dance, is the embodiment of the dynamic forces of the universe. His dance represents the continuous flow of energy that sustains all existence." - Sadhguru, Spiritual Leader "In Nataraja's dance, we find the perfect harmony of order and chaos, creation and destruction. It reflects the intricate balance of forces in the cosmos." - Carl Sagan, Astronomer and Science Communicator "Nataraja's dance is a metaphor for the interconnectedness of all things. It reminds us that everything in the universe is in a constant state of flux and transformation." - Deepak Chopra, Author and Alternative Medicine Advocate "The symbolism of Nataraja's dance is profound and multi-layered.

In Hindu tradition, the offering of a green saree to goddesses holds deep symbolic and cultural significance. Here are the key aspects of its symbolism and meaning: Symbolism and Meaning Color Symbolism: Green: The color green in Hinduism is often associated with life, fertility, nature, and renewal. It symbolizes growth, prosperity, and the flourishing of vegetation. Green is also linked to the heart chakra (Anahata), which signifies love and compassion. Fertility and Prosperity: Offering a green saree to a goddess is a gesture that invokes her blessings for fertility, both in terms of bearing children and in agricultural productivity. It is common during harvest festivals and rituals aimed at seeking prosperity and abundance. It is also offered for childbirth in the family and for protection of children from enemies and diseases. Nature and Mother Earth: Green is the color of the earth and represents the nurturing and life-sustaining aspects of nature. When devotees off

Brahman is the only Reality, everpure, ever-illumined, ever-free, beyond the limits of time, space, and causation. Though apparently divided by names and forms through the inscrutable agency of Maya (illusion), that enchantress which makes the impossible possible, Brahman is really one and undivided. When a seeker is merged in the state of supreme happiness of Samadhi, he does not perceive time and space or name and form - the production of Maya. Whatever is within the domain of Maya is unreal; give it up. Dive deep in the search for Self and be firmly established in It through Samadhi. You will then find the world of name and form vanishing into nothing, and this puny ego merging into cosmic consciousness. Totapuri It is said that Totapuri, unable to bear the pain of severe dysentery, decided to end his life in the Ganga River. But no matter how far he went into the river, the water level did not rise above his knees. Eventually, he reached the other side and turned to see Goddes

The "Haribhakti Vilasa," also known as "Hari Bhakti Vilasa," is a significant text in the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition, attributed to Gopala Bhatta Goswami, one of the six prominent Goswamis (spiritual leaders) who were direct disciples of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. This text serves as a comprehensive manual on the worship of Bhagavan Sri Krishna, encompassing both the practical aspects of devotional service and the philosophical underpinnings of the Chaitanya Sect. Historical Context and Authorship The Haribhakti Vilasa was composed in the 16th century during the Bhakti movement, a period characterized by a resurgence of devotional practices across India. Gopala Bhatta Goswami, along with other Goswamis like Rupa Goswami and Sanatana Goswami, played a pivotal role in codifying the teachings of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who emphasized devotion (bhakti) to Krishna as the supreme path to spiritual realization. Structure and Content The text is divided into twenty chap

In ancient times, as described in the Bhagavata Purana, there was a singular spiritual harmony characterized by the presence of only one Veda, one God, and one caste. This idyllic period is symbolized by the term "Hamsa." One Veda: There was a time when the wisdom of the Vedas was unified. Instead of the four separate texts we know today (Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda), there existed a single, undivided source of spiritual and philosophical knowledge. This singular Veda encapsulated all the teachings necessary for a holistic understanding of life, the universe, and the divine. One God: The concept of one God signifies a universal recognition of a singular divine presence or supreme reality. This deity was acknowledged as the ultimate truth and the source of all creation, beyond the multiplicity of forms and names that came to be recognized in later traditions. This monotheistic view emphasizes the unity of divinity and the interconnectedness of all existen

The BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in New Delhi has been bestowed with the honor of being the world's largest Hindu temple by the Guinness Book of World Records. In yet another world record, Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Pramukh Swami Maharaj has been credited with establishing and consecrating the largest number of Hindu temples ever by a single person. The Akshardham Temple in New Delhi is spread over an area of 86,342 square feet. It is 356 feet long, 316 feet wide and 141 feet high. The grand temple has been built in Vedic design with ornate, hand-carved stones and was consecrated on November 6, 2005 . Poetry in stone, the temple is a masterpiece in pink sandstone and white marble and has 234 ornate pillars, over 20,000 sculptures and statues of deities, eleven 72-foot-high huge domes and numerous decorative arches. The temple stands on 148 huge elephants and is encircled by a double storied colonnade which depicts t

The white hamsa, often depicted as a swan or goose, is a significant symbol in Hinduism, representing the purity of the soul or spirit. This symbolism is deeply intertwined with the concepts of Atman and the chakras, which are energy centers within the body. Symbolism of the White Hamsa Purity of the Soul (Atman): In Hindu philosophy, the Atman is the innermost essence or soul of an individual. The white hamsa symbolizes this pure, unblemished state of being, representing the ultimate truth and consciousness. The imagery of the white hamsa, often depicted as a swan, suggests a being that can separate milk from water, symbolizing the ability to distinguish between truth and illusion (satya and maya). Spiritual Aspirations: The hamsa's graceful and effortless movement through water is likened to the soul's journey towards moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It represents the idea of transcending material existence and attaining a state of spirit

Hairambas or Herambas is a distinctive tantric sect within the broader spectrum of Hinduism, particularly focused on the worship of Ganesha. This sect is notable for its unique approach to deity worship and its specific theological interpretations. Here, we delve into the origins, practices, and significance of the Hairambas sect, as well as the form of Ganesha known as Heramba. Origins and Beliefs The Hairambas sect finds its roots in the rich and diverse tradition of Tantric Hinduism. Tantra, with its esoteric and mystical practices, emphasizes the power of ritual and the symbolic union of opposites. Within this framework, Ganesha, the elephant-headed god, is revered not only as the remover of obstacles but also as a powerful deity embodying wisdom, prosperity, and protection. In Hairambas tradition, Ganesha is worshiped alongside Devi or Shakti, who is typically recognized as the consort of Shiva. This pairing underscores the tantric principle of combining masculine and femini

Gita Ramayana refers to a distinctive genre of Ramayana renditions presented in the form of songs. These musical adaptations have been composed in various regional languages over the centuries, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Indian devotional literature. Here is an expanded look at the Gita Ramayana, its origins, notable versions, and its significance. Historical Context and Regional Variations The tradition of narrating the Ramayana through songs predates many written versions of the epic. These musical renditions made the stories of Lord Rama more accessible to the general populace, particularly in regions where literacy rates were low. The musical format also facilitated the retention and transmission of the epic's themes and values across generations. Assamese Gita Ramayana: One of the earliest known Gita Ramayanas in Assamese, these songs are steeped in the local musical traditions and often performed during religious ceremonies and festivals. They reflect t

The story of Akshaya, the son of Ravana, being killed by Hanuman is a notable episode from the epic tales of the Ramayana. In the midst of his rampage through Lanka, Hanuman, the mighty monkey warrior and devotee of Lord Rama, had become a formidable force, causing havoc and destruction in the demon city. He had already vanquished numerous powerful Rakshasas, striking fear into the hearts of many. Hearing of the chaos and destruction wrought by Hanuman, Akshaya, the valiant son of Ravana, decided to confront the intruder himself. Confident in his abilities and driven by a sense of duty to protect his homeland, Akshaya prepared for battle. He mounted his splendid chariot, which was drawn by fierce and majestic horses, and rode out to meet Hanuman. As Akshaya approached Hanuman, he declared his identity with pride, "I am Akshaya, the son of Ravana. I have come to put an end to your destruction and avenge the death of my kin." Without hesitation, Akshaya began his assault,

Dashavatar, an animation film based on the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu, is produced by Pune-based Anushvi Productions in association with Phoebus Creations Media Pvt. Ltd. This 2D animation film has voices of famous Bollywood actors and is directed by Bhavik. The narration is through the eyes of two children Aarti and Ajay, who are saved from kidnappers by Lord Vishnu. Sage Narada narrates to them how Lord Vishnu saved them but the children are not willing to accept the fact that Lord Vishnu saved them from the kidnappers. To prove this and the power of Lord Vishnu, Sage Narada transports the children to the time when Brahma created the universe. The children watch the entire creation process and the ten incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The animation film is scheduled to release in 2008. Related Ten Incarnation of Vishnu and Evolution List of Animation films based on Hindu Mythology

After successfully meeting Sita and delivering Rama's message, Hanuman decided to create chaos in Lanka as a way to demonstrate his power and demoralize the demons. Hanuman began his mischief by raiding a beautiful mango orchard. He devoured all the ripe mangoes and then started uprooting the trees and tearing them apart, causing significant destruction. The noise and the destruction alerted the Rakshasas (demons) who were tasked with guarding the orchard and the surrounding area. The Rakshasas attempted to confront Hanuman, but they found themselves powerless against his strength and agility. They could not capture or subdue him, no matter how hard they tried. A brave Rakshasa, Dhumralochana, decided to attack Hanuman. He went prepared with weapons. Dhumralochana was known for his fierce appearance, with eyes that emitted smoke and a body that radiated terror. Confident in his strength, Dhumralochan believed he could defeat the intruder. Hanuman saw Dhumralochan coming and d

After successfully meeting Sita and delivering Rama's message, Hanuman decided to create chaos in Lanka as a way to demonstrate his power and demoralize the demons. Hanuman began his mischief by raiding a beautiful mango orchard. He devoured all the ripe mangoes and then started uprooting the trees and tearing them apart, causing significant destruction. The noise and the destruction alerted the Rakshasas (demons) who were tasked with guarding the orchard and the surrounding area. The Rakshasas attempted to confront Hanuman, but they found themselves powerless against his strength and agility. They could not capture or subdue him, no matter how hard they tried. Realizing they were no match for the mighty Vanara, the demons decided to report the situation to their king, Ravana. Upon hearing about the disturbance caused by Hanuman, Ravana was enraged. He summoned one of his fiercest and most skilled warriors, the demon Mura, and commanded him to kill Hanuman and end the chaos he

The Indian Department of Posts has made arrangements for dispatching the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple Prasadam. The prasadam packet known as Swami Prasadam will contain a sealed tin of aravana payasam, one packet of appam, vibhoothi, sandal paste, abhishekam ghee, manjal (turmeric powder), kumkum, pepper, vibhoothi from Vavar Mosque and a small laminated picture of Swami Ayyappa. The prasadam items are available through post during the mandalapooja and makaravilakku season and on the first few days of the Malayalam months. The devotees wishing to receive the prasadam through post have to remit Rupees 210 by money order in the post offices. The address for remittance is The Executive Officer, Travancore Devaswom Board, Sabarimala, 689713, Pathanamthitta District, Kerala. The prasadam packets will be dispatched through registered parcel post. Out of the money order an amount of Rupees 10 will be used for providing ‘annadanam’ (free meal) to the pilgrims. No idea how the

The relationship between Ghatotkacha and Bhima in the Mahabharata offers several profound lessons: 1. Strength in Diversity Ghatotkacha, a Rakshasa (demon), and Bhima, a human, demonstrate that strength can come from diverse backgrounds. Their different abilities complement each other, highlighting the value of diverse skills and perspectives. 2. Loyalty and Duty Despite their differences and the challenges they face, Ghatotkacha remains fiercely loyal to his father, Bhima, and the Pandavas. This loyalty underscores the importance of family bonds and fulfilling one’s duty, even in the face of personal sacrifice. 3. Sacrifice for the Greater Good Ghatotkacha’s ultimate sacrifice in the Kurukshetra war is a poignant lesson in selflessness. He gives his life to save the Pandavas and ensure their success, illustrating the noble act of sacrificing for a cause greater than oneself. 4. Courage and Valor Both Ghatotkacha and Bhima are epitomes of courage and valor. Their fearle

A small collection of The Mother Aurobindo Quotes It is no use reading books of guidance if one is not determined to live what they teach. One need not leave the earth to find the Truth, one need not leave the life to find his soul, one need not abandon the world or have only limited beliefs to enter into relation with the Divine. The Divine is everywhere, in everything and if He is hidden, it is because we do not take the trouble to discover Him. Generally, it seems to me that this is the first question one should put to oneself: "Why am I here?" I have seen this in children, even in children of five or six : "Why am I here, why do I live?" And then to search, with whatever consciousness is available, with a very little bit of consciousness: why am I here, for what reason? This seems to me the normal starting-point. One need not leave the earth to find the Truth, one need not leave the life to find his soul, one need not abandon the world or have

There are hundreds of priests in Haridwar who keep record books filled with the genealogies of Hindu families visiting the ancient city to pay homage to their dead. A particular Priest or Panda keeps the record of a set of families and relatives leave there remarks on the dead person in the book. In an article in the Washington Post, Emily Wax writes "It's so lovely that we still feel so emotionally connected to seeing the books," Parthi Krishnan, a hotel manager marveling at the record book's faded pages. There were remarks written by relatives through the years: "A good listener," one entry said. "Hard worker," another said. "You see, a computer has no feeling," Pawan, a Hindu priest, explained. "There is an intimacy in seeing the handwritten notes of a family." Millions of Hindu families in northern India come to priests such as Pawan to record their family trees, a tradition that has survived Mughal conquests, B

Gajanibha are mythical creatures that are akin to elephants and have a significant role in the Mahabharata, one of the major Sanskrit epics of ancient Indian literature. Their name, derived from the Sanskrit words "Gaja" meaning "elephant" and "Nibha" meaning "like" or "resembling," highlights their elephantine nature. These creatures are described as being large, strong, and possessing the majestic attributes of elephants. In the Mahabharata, the Gajanibha are specifically mentioned in the context of drawing the chariot of Ghatotkacha, a prominent character in the epic. Ghatotkacha, the son of Bhima (one of the Pandavas) and the demoness Hidimbi, is known for his immense size, strength, and magical abilities. His chariot, drawn by the Gajanibha, reflects his formidable presence on the battlefield. These creatures enhance the grandeur and awe associated with Ghatotkacha, emphasizing his importance and the supernatural elements that he

In the ancient Hindu epic, the Ramayana, Demon Dooshana was one of the formidable generals of Ravana, the powerful king of Lanka. Ravana, a mighty demon king, was known for his ten heads, immense strength, and unparalleled prowess in battle. He ruled over the island kingdom of Lanka and was a terror to gods, sages, and humans alike. Dooshana served as a loyal companion and second-in-command to Khara, Ravana’s brother. Khara, known for his own strength and cruelty, was stationed in the Dandaka forest, a region notorious for its dangers and the presence of numerous demons. Soorpanaka's Disfigurement The series of events leading to the clash with Rama began with Soorpanaka, another sibling of Ravana. She encountered Rama in the Dandaka forest while he was in exile with his wife, Sita, and his brother, Lakshmana. Soorpanaka was instantly smitten by Rama’s divine beauty and valor. She proposed marriage to him, but Rama, devoted to Sita, gently refused her advances. Angered and hum