Danavas are a significant class of Asuras in Hindu mythology, often depicted as powerful and formidable beings. Asuras, in general, represent the darker forces and are frequently in opposition to the Devas, or gods. Here's an expanded overview of the Danavas: Origin and Lineage Parentage and Birth: The Danavas were born from Danu, one of the daughters of Daksha Prajapati, who married Kashyapa, a revered sage and the grandson of Brahma. This union is significant as it produced many powerful and influential beings in Hindu mythology. Danu’s Offspring: According to various texts, Danu had different numbers of children: Ramayana: Mentions a son named Ashvagriva. Mahabharata: States that Danu had forty sons. Puranas: Some mention Danu having a hundred sons, emphasizing the prolific nature of her lineage. Notable Danavas and Their Families Viprachitti and Simhika: Viprachitti, a son of Danu, married Simhika, a daughter of Diti. Their offspring are also considered Danavas.

Damodaradeva was a revered Vaishnava saint from Assam, India, who played a significant role in the propagation and establishment of the Vaishnavism movement in the region. Born in 1488 CE, he lived during a period of considerable religious and cultural transformation in Assam, which was largely influenced by the teachings of his guru, Shankardeva. Early Life and Education Damodara Deva was born into a Brahmin family in Nalaca, near Barpeta, Assam. His early life was deeply rooted in the Brahminical traditions, but his spiritual inclinations led him to seek deeper religious truths, which eventually brought him to Shankardeva, the preeminent Vaishnava reformer of Assam. Association with Shankardeva Shankardeva (1449–1568 CE) was a towering figure in Assamese history, known for founding the Ekasarana Dharma, a monotheistic, bhakti-oriented tradition that worshipped Lord Krishna. Shankardeva's emphasis on devotion (bhakti) over ritualistic practices had a profound influence on

Masi Makam or Masi Magam is an important festival in the Tamil speaking world. The festival falls in the Tamil Month of Masi (February – March). In 2025, Masi Makam is on March 12 in temples in Tamil Nadu. This year it is the Mahamaham.  Maham or Makam is one among the twenty seven stars in the astrological system. The makam star in the Masi month usually falls on the full moon day and is considered highly auspicious in many temples across South India , especially in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry ( Pondicherry ) and Kerala. One of the important rituals on this day is the taking of idols to the seashore or ponds. Therefore the festival is also referred as holy bath ceremony. Long processions from different temples arrive at the sea shore with the idols of Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva. Idols from Shakti temples are also brought to the seashore. Pujas and other rituals are held at the sea shore and t housands of devotees throng the sea shore on this day to offer prayer. There ar

According to a story found in the Puranas, Sushila, a devoted friend of Radha, holds a significant place in the spiritual tapestry surrounding the divine couple Radha and Krishna. Sushila's tale intertwines with themes of love, devotion, and divine retribution, illustrating the profound dynamics of relationships in the spiritual realm. Sushila and Radha's Friendship Sushila was not an ordinary friend; she was considered the embodiment of Dakshina, the goddess representing the act of giving and generosity. Her close association with Radha, the beloved consort of Bhagavan Sri Krishna, made her an integral part of the divine play in Vrindavan, where the divine love between Radha and Krishna blossomed. Sushila's Love for Krishna Sushila's love for Krishna was pure and unwavering, much like Radha's. However, the intensity of her love led to unforeseen consequences. One day, Radha discovered Sushila and Krishna together, a sight that stirred deep emotions within h

Palembang puppet shows of Indonesia are based on the stories from Mahabharata and Ramayana. It is a local adaptation of the popular Javanese puppet shows. Sadly, Palembang puppet shows are now facing numerous problems. Like most traditional art forms, there is a lack of interest in the modern generation for the puppetry. There is also a dearth in professional Palembang puppeteers. Palembang puppetry tradition is said to have originated in the 19 th century. The shows are staged in the Palembang language. Apart from the stories from the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, local stories and stories of ancient kingdoms are part of the puppetry. UNESCO is funding around 15 Palembang puppet theaters and is helping youngsters interested in it. UNESCO also has plans to introduce this struggling traditional art form in other countries around the world. From The Jakarta Post The United Nations’ cultural organisation is working with Palembang puppete

The story of Alambusha, the celestial apsara, and her role in the Mahabharata, is a fascinating tale intertwined with themes of temptation, divine intervention, and the birth of new lineages. Expanded Story of Alambusha Background: Alambusha was one of the celestial apsaras, divine nymphs known for their unparalleled beauty and charm. The apsaras were often sent by the gods, particularly Indra, the king of the gods, to disrupt the penance and meditations of sages and ascetics. This was often done to prevent the sages from acquiring power that could potentially challenge the gods themselves. Sage Dadhichi: Sage Dadhichi, also known as Dadhyancha, was a revered rishi (sage) and the son of Rishi Bhrigu, one of the Saptarishis (seven great sages). Dadhichi was known for his great penance and his sacrifices for the welfare of the world. His penance was so intense that it began to threaten Indra, who feared that Dadhichi's acquired powers could dethrone him. Indra's Plan: To

It is believed that Vaisakheswara temple lie submerged below the sea near Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. So far the attempts by Centre for Marine Archaeology (CMA) of Andhra University to locate the temple have been unsuccessful. The city of Visakhapatnam is said to have taken its name from the temple dedicated to God Visakha (Muruga - son of Shiva and Parvati). Now CMA after decades of research has come to the conclusion that the temple lie beneath the waters of the Bay of Bengal near Tirthapurallu. Parapsychologist Edwin C May is helping the CMA team in their quest for the lost temple. The team plans to employ anomalous cognition (AC) for tracing the temple. Anomalous cognition (AC) is the ability to acquire information that is blocked from the known senses by shielding distance or time for tracing the temple. The process has been successfully employed to trace submerged ships and submarines. The Hindu reports  Novel methods to corroborate geophysi

In the Rig Veda, one of the oldest and most revered texts in Hinduism, there are numerous hymns that praise a divine horse known for its extraordinary abilities. This horse is celebrated in four distinct hymns for its unmatched swiftness and capacity to fly. The descriptions highlight its incredible speed, likening it to the wind, and its aerial prowess, comparing it to a swooping eagle. This divine steed is not merely a mythical creature but is deeply symbolic, embodying various aspects of natural and spiritual phenomena. Swift as the Wind The Rig Veda portrays the divine horse as possessing remarkable speed, a quality that sets it apart from ordinary horses. The hymns describe it as being "swift as the wind," suggesting an ability to travel at incredible velocities. This comparison to the wind underscores its supernatural nature, emphasizing an almost ethereal speed that ordinary creatures cannot match. Ability to Fly In addition to its speed, the divine horse is de

Important archaeological finds have been made under water and on land at Dwarka in Gujarat . The Underwater Archaeology Wing (UAW) of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is conducting a major excavation at Dwarka, which is mentioned in the Mahabharata as kingdom of Lord Krishna . Legend has it that Dwarka was submerged by sea. The archaeologists have found ancient structures and copper coins. On land, the excavations are taking place near the famous Dwarkadhish temple. The Hindu reports Alok Tripathi, Superintending Archaeologist, UAW, said the ancient underwater structures found in the Arabian Sea were yet to be identified. "We have to find out what they are. They are fragments. I would not like to call them a wall or a temple. They are part of some structure," said Dr. Tripathi The Hindu also has some pictures of the excavations at Dwarka.

There is an ongoing controversy in Pakistan over the inclusion of chapters related to Hinduism and Buddhism in history texts. Muthahida Majlis Amal (MMA) has opposed the inclusion of content related to South Asia 's pre-Islamic history. The pre-Islamic history of South Asia deals with Hinduism, Buddhism and the many empires including Mauryan Empire of Chandra Gupta Maurya. The present History texts in Pakistan talks about the Indus civilization and skips Hinduism, birth and spread of Buddhism and the rule of Hindu kings in the region that forms present day Pakistan. Mir Shakil-ur-Rahman writes in an editorial in The News After all, these civilizations are very much a part of our history, whether the MMA likes it or not. It is not Hindu history, as the MMA would have it, but Pakistani, and, in fact, world history. If Hinduism and Buddhism, or, for that matter, any other culture or religion, are a part of this history, then they, too, must be cover

Edited by Professor S. Pathmanathan, the book ‘Hindu Temples of Sri Lanka ’ captures the progress of Hinduism in Sri Lanka through the Hindu temples on the Island Nation. The book delves into the different aspects of the ancient temples including history, architecture, administration, endowments, festivals, rituals and traditions. The book contains fifteen essays written by nine authors. Majority of the essays are written by S. Pathmanathan. In the introduction part, Pathmanathan throws light on various cults and traditions of Hindu religion. Equally important is his thoughts on the contacts between Hinduism and Buddhism in Sri Lanka . The book contains a map which provides the geographical location of the important temples. There are also images of temples in the book. It is a historian’s history of the progress of Hinduism in the Island from the earliest times up to the present. It catalogues, records and describes the his

A small collection of quotes of Raja Ram Mohan Roy. OM , when considered as one letter, uttered by the help of one articulation, is the symbol of the Supreme Spirit. But when considered a trilateral word consisting of a, u, m, it implies the three Vedas, the three states of human nature, the divisions of the universe, and the three deities – Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, agents in the creation, preservation and destruction of this world; or, properly speaking, the three principal attributes of the Supreme Being personified in those three deities. In this sense it implies, in fact, the universe controlled by the Supreme Spirit. There is only one God. None equals him. He has no end. He is present in all living beings. The present system of Hindus is not well calculated to promote their political interests. It is necessary that some change should take place in their religion at least for the sake of political advantage and social comfort.  Raja Ram Mohan Roy  (1775 – 1883)

Worshipping Shiva, or any deity, while far away from home can be a meaningful and spiritually enriching experience. Here are some suggestions for worshipping Shiva in a foreign country: Find a Temple or Spiritual Center: Look for Hindu temples or spiritual centers in your area. Many cities around the world have such places where you can participate in Shiva puja (worship), attend satsangs (spiritual discourses), and connect with fellow devotees. Create a Home Shrine: If there are no temples nearby, you can create a small shrine at your home. Dedicate a corner or a specific area to Shiva by placing a picture or statue of Lord Shiva, along with other sacred items like incense, flowers, and a lamp. Observe Traditional Rituals: Follow traditional rituals like offering water (abhishekam) and milk to the Shiva lingam, chanting mantras such as the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra or Om Namah Shivaya, and performing aarti (lighting a lamp and waving it before the deity). Practice Meditation and

The relationship between Angad and Sugriva in the Ramayana offers several valuable lessons: Loyalty and Friendship: Angad's loyalty to Sugriva exemplifies the strength of their friendship. Despite the challenges they face, Angad remains devoted to his king, highlighting the importance of loyalty and steadfastness in relationships. Trust and Forgiveness: When Sugriva initially doubts Angad's loyalty due to his father Vali's past actions, Angad proves himself trustworthy through his actions. This demonstrates the significance of trust and forgiveness in maintaining strong relationships, even in the face of past misunderstandings or betrayals. Responsibility and Duty: Angad fulfills his responsibilities as a prince and a member of Sugriva's council with dedication and integrity. His commitment to his duties serves as a reminder of the importance of fulfilling one's responsibilities in relationships, whether they be familial, social, or professional. Courage an

Idols of Krishna , Radha, and Hanuman have been installed at the Krishna Mandir in Lahore . Hindu pilgrims visiting Pakistan to celebrate the religious festival of Shivratri at Katas Raj Temple brought the idols at the request of Baba Devender Kumar Ghai, the founding president of the Anglo-Asian Friendship Society (UK). The temple had been without idols for the past 59 years. The idea of the reinstallation of idols took place during the visit of a Hindu delegation from India last year. Baba Devender Kumar Ghai was also present during the visit of the delegation and it was decided then to reinstall the idols. The temple is an important center of Hindu worship in the city. The temple observes all important Hindu festivals including Shivratri, Holi, Navratri, Ram Navami, Hanuman Jayanti, Hinglaj Mata Yatra, Chaitra Navratri, Krishna Janmashtami, Ganesh Jayanti, Navratri, Dasara and Diwali.

The saying "A man firmly established in freedom is tranquil" encapsulates a profound truth about inner peace and liberation. In Hindu philosophy, particularly within the teachings of ancient sages, this concept is deeply ingrained. In Hinduism, freedom (moksha) is the ultimate goal of human life. It is the liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara), and the realization of one's true nature. When an individual is firmly established in this freedom, they transcend the fluctuations of the mind and the dualities of the world. They experience a state of profound tranquility, untouched by external circumstances. This wisdom has been passed down through the ages by revered sages and spiritual masters such as Vyasa, Patanjali, and Adi Shankaracharya, among others. Through their teachings, they have elucidated the path to liberation through various means such as yoga, meditation, self-inquiry, and devotion. The tranquility that arises from being firmly

The pocket-friendly version of The Ramayana of Children is published by Penguin Books India and is adapted by Bulbul Sharma. Keeping the traditional tale intact, the author uses modern day narrative techniques to make the book children friendly. Bulbul Sharma, an artist and writer, works as an art teacher for children with special needs. She had written a number of books which include The Book of Devi (Indian Gods and Goddesses) and Tales of Fabled Beasts, Gods and Demons .  Another noteworthy aspect of The Ramayana for Children is the illustrations by K.P.Sudesh. The book is priced at Rupees 399/- From the flyer The Ramayana is one of the best-known epics in the world, the tale of Rama, the prince of Ayodhya.   In this vividly told, brilliantly funny version for children, this ancient story takes on a new life.   The traditional ingredients are all there adventure and excitement, love, war and monkeys, shape-changing demons and monsters, crossing ocea

In Hinduism, the teaching to "be a witness to the parade of events in the stream of time without attachment" is deeply rooted in several philosophical and spiritual traditions within the religion. This concept is encapsulated in various scriptures and teachings, particularly in the Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads, and the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta. Here’s an expanded explanation: The Concept of Detachment (Vairagya) Vairagya, or detachment, is a central theme in Hindu philosophy. It emphasizes the importance of remaining unattached to the outcomes of actions, emotions, and the material world. This detachment is not about indifference but about cultivating an inner sense of peace and equanimity regardless of external circumstances. The Role of the Witness (Sakshi) Sakshi means "witness" in Sanskrit. It refers to the higher self or pure consciousness that observes the activities of the mind and body without getting involved. This concept is crucial in unders

History records several instances of idols from Hindu temples being shifted to safety. This shifting of idols was mainly due to attacks carried out by people believing in other faith. Yet another reason was natural calamities. The idols from Puri Jagannath Temple had to be shifted several times fearing attacks and once it was kept for a long period at Gopali village in Sonetpur District of Orissa. This village is popularly known as Patali Srikhetra. This particular shifting has been mentioned in the temple manuscripts. The idols were kept underground near a ‘pipal tree’ in Patali Srikhetra. Scholars claim that the idols were kept here for more than four decades. After the first shifting, the idols were brought again to the village during another attack. Now the administration of Puri Jagannath Temple is planning to conduct a detail study into these shifting of idols.

The teaching "Find Peace In God Who Is Ever Same In Your Heart" reflects a core concept in Hinduism, emphasizing the constant and unwavering presence of the Divine within oneself. This idea is deeply rooted in various Hindu scriptures and philosophies, which stress the importance of internal spiritual peace and the realization of the divine presence in one's own heart. Here's an expanded explanation: Understanding the Teaching Inner Divinity: Hinduism teaches that God, or the Supreme Reality, resides within every individual. This is often expressed through the concept of the Atman, which is the inner self or soul that is identical with Brahman, the ultimate reality. Recognizing this inner divinity is key to finding peace. Unchanging Nature of God: In a world full of change and uncertainty, God is seen as the eternal, unchanging principle. This constancy provides a stable foundation for individuals seeking solace amidst life's fluctuations. The Upanishads, p

The timeless wisdom of Hindu sages offers profound insights into the nature of love and freedom. In the rich tapestry of Hindu philosophy, the idea that "To give love is true freedom" encapsulates the essence of spiritual liberation and the path to true fulfillment. The Nature of Love in Hindu Philosophy In Hindu thought, love is more than an emotion; it is a divine force, an expression of the soul's connection to the universe. The sages teach that love is the fundamental nature of the Self (Atman), which is inherently connected to the universal consciousness (Brahman). This universal love is unconditional and transcends personal desires and attachments. Bhakti Yoga: The Path of Devotion Bhakti Yoga, one of the four main paths to spiritual realization in Hinduism, emphasizes the cultivation of love and devotion towards God. This path teaches that by surrendering oneself in loving devotion, one can attain union with the Divine. The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu tex

What is the exact spelling for Shivaratri? There are nearly a dozen English spelling of Shivaratri in vogue on the internet and in print media. It is very difficult to make Search Engine like Google, Ask, Yahoo etct to understand that they all mean the same thing. Shivaratri Shivratri Sivaratri (this spelling has a macron on top of S) Mahashivaratri Mahashivratri Mahasivratri Maha Shivaratri Maha Shivratri Maha Sivratri Some more spelling variations are there but they are not relevant as they appear rarely in online newspapers and websites and are mostly typos. Many are the path that leads to Brahman. Similarly, all these spelling ultimately lead to information on Shivaratri. Update - Today the different spellings are understood by search engines and they all will take you to Shivratri. Earlier it was not the case. Spellings were a big problem for Hindu religion writers as they had to use different types of spellings to make the search engines unde

Sudhir Kakar, a psychoanalyst and writer from Goa , discusses sex in Hindu way of life in his short article in On Faith of Washington Post. Some excerpts: ..many wonder that if the sexual act in Hindu religious tradition does not lie outside but within the holiness of life, then why are contemporary Indians so embarrassed by Khajuraho’s sculptures and feel the need to explain them away in convoluted religious metaphors and symbols or to dismiss them as a product of a ‘degenerate’ era?  The answer is that since centuries Hinduism has also set a high value on the ascetic ideal and the virtues of celibacy. There is a whole mythology around semen, shared by Hindu saint and sinner alike, which sees its emission as enervating, a debilitating waste of vitality and essential energy. In the Hindu theory of sublimation, if semen is retained, it can be transformed into a source of creativity and spiritual power.  The ascetic ideal, too, is quintessentially In

The Krittibasi Ramayana, also known as the Krittivasi Ramayana, is a significant Bengali adaptation of the original Sanskrit epic, the Ramayana, attributed to the poet Krittibas Ojha, commonly referred to as Krittivasa. This version is notable for its distinct regional flavor and the incorporation of local cultural elements, making it a cherished literary work in Bengali literature. Key Features of Krittibasi Ramayana: Language and Style: Language: Written in Middle Bengali, the Krittibasi Ramayana is accessible to Bengali-speaking audiences. Verse Form: The epic is composed in the traditional Bengali verse form known as panchali. Cultural Adaptations: Krittibas adapted the original Sanskrit text to make it more relatable to the Bengali populace. This includes the introduction of local customs, traditions, and idiomatic expressions. The narrative also reflects the social and cultural milieu of medieval Bengal, providing insights into the life and times during Krittibas&#

I was put this question by a professor recently during a casual discussion on Indian blogging and Hindu blogs. I went to give a conventional answer that you get to see in Wikipedia. A blog is a user-generated website where entries are made in journal style and displayed in a reverse chronological order.   Blogs often provide commentary or news on a particular subject, such as food, politics, or local news; some function as more personal online diaries. A typical blog combines text, images, and links to other blogs, web pages, and other media related to its topic. The ability for readers to leave comments in an interactive format is an important part of many blogs. Well I did not just mug up and say word by word but I said something like this. But I wanted to say something else and I was hesitant. Perhaps there lies the importance of blogs; it opens up even an introvert. I feel blogs provide the highest form of freedom to express your thoughts, p

In Hinduism, Garuda bird is a significant and revered figure, symbolizing a variety of profound concepts and attributes. Here are the key aspects of Garuda's symbolism: Divine Mount and Vehicle Garuda serves as the vahana (vehicle) of Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. This association elevates Garuda to a divine status, symbolizing the power and speed necessary to carry a god. His role as Vishnu's mount highlights themes of loyalty and devotion. Representation of Strength and Courage Garuda is depicted as a powerful bird with a golden body, white face, red wings, and an eagle's beak. This formidable appearance symbolizes immense strength, courage, and the ability to overcome obstacles. In many tales, Garuda's might is showcased as he battles various demons and adversaries. Symbol of Freedom and Liberation Garuda's ability to soar high into the sky represents the concept of spiritual freedom and the liberation of the soul from the cyc

Chitraratha, also known as Angaraparna, was a prominent king of the Gandharvas, a group of celestial beings known for their skills in music and combat. He was the son of Sage Kashyapa, a revered sage in Hindu mythology, and his wife Muni. Chitraratha played a notable role in the Mahabharata, particularly in the lives of the Pandavas. Encounter with the Pandavas Chitraratha's first encounter with the Pandavas occurred when they were in exile. The Pandavas, accompanied by their mother Kunti, were traveling through a dense forest. One night, as they were resting by the banks of the Ganga, Chitraratha happened to pass by with his retinue of Gandharvas. Battle with Arjuna A confrontation ensued between Chitraratha and Arjuna. Chitraratha, mounted on his celestial chariot and armed with divine weapons, engaged in a fierce battle with Arjuna. Despite his prowess and the magical abilities of his Gandharva troops, Chitraratha was eventually overpowered by Arjuna’s exceptional archer