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Showing posts from April, 2007


Hindu Children Figurine from Lladro - Hindu Figurine That Can Bring Luck, Hope And Fertility

The Hindu Children from Lladro is one of the earliest Hindu porcelain figures from a noted company. This edition of Hindu Children porcelain figurine was issued in 1986. It retails for $550. Lladro is a Spanish Company noted for high quality porcelain figurines. Hindu Figurine That Can Bring Luck, Hope And Fertility In Hindu culture, various symbols and figurines hold significance and are often associated with different aspects of life, including luck, hope, and fertility. One such example is the representation of Lord Ganesha, who is widely revered as the remover of obstacles and the deity of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. Many Hindus believe that having an image or figurine of Lord Ganesha in their homes can bring blessings and remove obstacles from their lives. Similarly, other deities and symbols in Hinduism are also associated with different aspects of life. For instance, images of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, are often kept in homes and business

Story of the Four-Handed Sri Yoga Anjaneya Worshipped at Sholingur

Sholingur, located in Tamil Nadu, India, is renowned for its two prominent hilltop temples: the Yoga Narasimhar Temple and the Sri Yoga Anjaneya Temple. The Sri Yoga Anjaneya Temple is particularly notable for its unique depiction of Hanuman (Anjaneya) with four hands, a rare and significant iconography in Hindu tradition. The Unique Four-Handed Hanuman In the Sri Yoga Anjaneya Temple, the deity is portrayed with four arms. In his upper hands, he holds the shankha (conch) and chakra (discus), and he is seated facing west. This form is associated with several fascinating stories and legends that explain its origin and significance. Legend of King Indradyumna and the Demon Kumbhodara One prominent story involves King Indradyumna and his battle against the demon Kumbhodara. During this conflict, Lord Indra, the king of the gods, provided Indradyumna with his divine chariot and the powerful Vajrayudha (thunderbolt weapon). Other demigods also contributed their celestial weapons to

Story Of Offering Prayers For 24 Minutes At Yoga Narasimhar Temple Sholingur

The Yoga Narasimhar Temple at Sholingur, one of the 108 Divya Desams, is revered for its deities Lord Yoga Narasimha and Sri Yoga Anjaneya Swamy. This temple holds a unique significance for devotees, as it is believed that continuous prayer for 24 minutes can lead to the redemption of sins. Historical Significance The ancient town of Sholingur was originally known as Thirukkadigai or Ghatikachalam. The name Ghatikachalam is derived from two Sanskrit words: "Ghatika," meaning a span of time, and "Achalam," meaning a hill that is immovable. This nomenclature underscores the temporal and spiritual importance of the location. Mythological Background The temple is steeped in mythology, particularly revolving around Lord Narasimha, an avatar of Vishnu. According to legend, Lord Narasimha appeared to Prahlada Maharaj and the Sapta Rishis (seven sages) in this sacred place and granted them moksha (liberation) within a brief span of time. It is believed that this div

Good Time To Visit Hindu Temples In Western Ghats And Coastal Karnataka

Visiting the Hindu temples in the Western Ghats and Coastal Karnataka can be a spiritually enriching and visually delightful experience. However, timing your visit can significantly enhance the experience. Here's a detailed guide on the best times to visit these regions, along with some notable temples you might consider exploring: Ideal Time to Visit November to January: Weather: The weather during these months is generally pleasant, making it the best time to visit. The temperature is moderate, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and the heavy rains of the monsoon. Activities: The clear skies and comfortable weather allow for uninterrupted temple visits and sightseeing. Months to Avoid: Monsoon Season (June to September): The Western Ghats experience heavy rainfall, which can lead to landslides, slippery roads, and flooding, making travel difficult and sometimes dangerous. Peak Summer (March to May): Coastal Karnataka can get extremely hot, with temperatures soaring

A New Book on Purusha Suktam - Importance Of Purusha Sukta In Hinduism

Purusa Sukta is a hymn on creation and is found in the Vedas. The book is titled ‘A New Approach to Purusha Suktam’ and is written by T. Venkatacharya. This English translation and exposition is based on Sanskrit commentary of Purusa Sukta by Rangantha Muni. Reviewing the book in The Hindu M. Narasimhachary says that this interpretation, which is quite novel, tries to explain the ‘mystery’ of creation of the universe in as simple a language as possible. Published by Sanskrit Pustak Bhandar, 38, Bidhan Sarani, Kolkata – 700006 Importance Of Purusha Sukta In Hinduism Vedic Origin: Purusha Sukta is a hymn from the Rigveda, one of the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism. It holds significant historical and theological importance as it is believed to be composed by the ancient sages. Creation Mythology: The hymn portrays a creation myth describing the origin of the universe and all forms of life. It conceptualizes the universe as arising from the sacrifice of a cosmic bein

Pancha Linga Temples – Five Shiva Temples Associated With Atmalinga In Coastal Karnataka

The Pancha Linga Temples are a group of five sacred Shiva temples in coastal Karnataka, each associated with parts of the Atmalinga that Ravana was carrying from Kailash to Lanka. According to legend, Ravana performed severe austerities to please Lord Shiva, who granted him the Atmalinga with the condition that once placed on the ground, it would become immovable. Ravana, while transporting the Atmalinga, had to place it down, resulting in its installation at Mahabaleshwar. In his anger, Ravana flung away the casket and the cloth covering the Atmalinga, which scattered across various locations, each becoming a site of worship. These sites are now known as the Pancha Linga Temples. Murudeshwara Temple Murudeshwara Temple is associated with the cloth that covered the Atmalinga, which flung all the way to Murudeshwara and became the Mridesha Linga. The Shivalinga appeared from the sea and manifested at this location. The temple is known for its massive Raja Gopuram and the towering st

How To Explain Multiple Hands Of Hindu Gods To A Child?

Explaining the multiple hands of Hindu gods to a child can be a delightful and insightful experience. Here’s a simple way to explain it: Use Analogies and Simple Concepts Superpowers and Helpers: "Imagine your favorite superhero who has lots of powers. Sometimes they need extra tools or help to use all their powers at once. Hindu gods have many hands to show they have lots of special powers and can help people in many different ways at the same time." Multitasking: "Think about how your teacher can write on the board, talk to the class, and help a student with a question all at once. The gods have many hands to show they can do many things at once, like helping lots of people, fighting evil, and giving blessings." Use Visuals and Stories Pictures and Illustrations: Show them images of different Hindu gods with multiple hands and explain what each hand is holding or doing. This makes it easier for children to understand through visualization. Storyt

Deciphering the Vedas Using Artificial Intelligence

When one goes deep into the Vedas, numerous doubts arise regarding the use of certain words as they have multiple meanings. And certain concepts give a feel as if they have been forced into the Vedas and were not part of the original text. Prabhu Ram Raghunathan of Carnegie Mellon University, Pennsylvania is using Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques to clear such doubts on a statistical basis. So what is Artificial Intelligence? From library.thinkquest.org Artificial Intelligence, or AI for short, is a combination of computer science, physiology, and philosophy. AI is a broad topic, consisting of different fields, from machine vision to expert systems. The element that the fields of AI have in common is the creation of machines that can "think". Varun Aggarwal writes in expresscomputeronline in detail about the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in deciphering the Vedas and the role played by Prabhu Ram Raghunathan. Prabhu Ram Raghunathan

Talk Less, Think More – Teachings Of Hindu Teachers

Wisdom of Hindu teachers places great emphasis on the virtues of speech and thought, often encouraging individuals to speak sparingly and think deeply. This wisdom is rooted in various scriptures and teachings that highlight the power and consequences of words and the importance of mindfulness. The Power of Words Mantra: One of the fundamental beliefs in Hinduism is the power of the spoken word, particularly in the form of mantras. Mantras are sacred sounds, words, or phrases believed to hold spiritual and psychological power. The disciplined and deliberate use of mantras exemplifies the principle of speaking sparingly and with intention. Scriptural References: Rigveda: "Vakya Parokshena Manasa Dhi" (Rigveda 10.71.4) translates to "The word, like a hidden treasure, must be carefully controlled and revealed only after deep contemplation." Bhagavad Gita: In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna advises Arjuna on the importance of thoughtful speech. In Chapter 17, Vers

How To Free One From Fear And Wrath? – Bhagavad Gita Answers

The Bhagavad Gita provides profound insights on how to overcome fear and wrath. Here are some key teachings and practices from the Gita that can help one free themselves from these negative emotions: Understanding Fear and Wrath Self-Realization and Detachment (Atman and Detachment) Verses 2.19-2.20: Krishna explains the eternal nature of the soul, which is neither born nor dies. Understanding this can reduce fear of death and loss. Verses 2.47-2.48: Focus on performing one's duty without attachment to results. This concept of "Nishkama Karma" helps in reducing anxiety and fear associated with outcomes. Mind Control and Steadiness (Yoga and Meditation) Verse 6.5-6.6: One must elevate oneself through the mind and not degrade oneself. The mind is both a friend and an enemy. Verse 6.35: Through practice (abhyasa) and detachment (vairagya), one can control the restless mind. Equanimity and Balance (Samatva) Verse 2.38: Treating pleasure and pain, gain and

Interconnectedness - The Most Important And Fundamental Teaching In Hinduism

The concept of interconnectedness is a fundamental teaching in Hinduism, encapsulated in various philosophical doctrines, scriptures, and practices. This teaching can be understood through several key principles and texts in Hindu thought: Advaita Vedanta Advaita Vedanta, one of the major schools of Hindu philosophy, emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality. According to Advaita, the ultimate reality (Brahman) is singular and undivided, and everything in the universe is a manifestation of this one reality. The apparent diversity and multiplicity in the world are illusions (Maya). The realization that one's true self (Atman) is identical to Brahman leads to liberation (Moksha). Bhagavad Gita The Bhagavad Gita, a central text in Hinduism, discusses interconnectedness extensively. In the Gita, Lord Krishna teaches Arjuna about the unity of all existence. For instance, in Chapter 13, verses 13-18, Krishna explains that the same divine presence pervades all beings and objects,

Lessons From The Life Of Vidura In The Mahabharata

Vidura is a significant character in the Mahabharata, known for his wisdom, righteousness, and unwavering commitment to dharma (moral duty). Here are some key lessons from his life: The Importance of Wisdom and Knowledge Vidura was renowned for his wisdom and deep understanding of dharma. His knowledge made him a trusted advisor to King Dhritarashtra and others in the Kuru court. This highlights the value of wisdom and knowledge in guiding one's actions and making sound decisions. Adherence to Dharma Vidura exemplifies adherence to dharma even in difficult circumstances. He consistently counseled the Kuru family to act justly and morally, often opposing his brother Dhritarashtra and nephew Duryodhana when they strayed from righteous paths. This teaches the importance of sticking to ethical principles, regardless of personal or familial pressures. Courage to Speak the Truth Despite the risks, Vidura always spoke the truth to power. His fearless advice, even when unwelcom

Lord Krishna from Lladro - Spiritual Importance Of Lord Krishna Idol At Home

Lladro is a Spanish Company noted for high quality porcelain figurines. This limited edition of Lord Krishna porcelain figurine was issued in the year 2005. It retails for $520. Spiritual Importance Of Lord Krishna Idol At Home Having a Bhagavan Sri Krishna idol at home holds significant spiritual importance in Hinduism. Bhagavan Sri Krishna is one of the most revered deities in Hinduism and is considered the eighth avatar of Bhagavan Sri Vishnu, the Preserver in the Hindu Trinity. Here are some spiritual significances of having a Bhagavan Sri Krishna idol at home: Devotion and Bhakti: Having a Krishna idol at home can serve as a focal point for devotion and bhakti (devotional worship). Worshipping Bhagavan Sri Krishna with love and devotion is believed to deepen one's spiritual connection and foster a sense of divine presence in the home. Remembrance of Teachings: Bhagavan Sri Krishna's life, as depicted in the sacred texts like the Bhagavad Gita and the Srim

Lessons From The Life Of Lakshmana In Ramayana

Lakshmana, one of the principal characters in the Ramayana, is known for his unwavering loyalty, selflessness, and valor. His life offers several valuable lessons that can be applied to various aspects of life. Here are some key lessons from Lakshmana's life: Loyalty and Devotion Lakshmana's loyalty to his brother Rama is unparalleled. He chose to accompany Rama during his 14-year exile, leaving behind the comforts of the palace. Lesson: True loyalty and devotion to loved ones and principles are invaluable. This kind of dedication builds strong relationships and trust. Selflessness Lakshmana exhibited extreme selflessness throughout the exile. He took on the role of protector and provider, always prioritizing the well-being of Rama and Sita over his own needs. Lesson: Putting others' needs before your own, especially in times of difficulty, fosters a sense of community and support. Duty and Responsibility Lakshmana was a perfect example of someone who under

Nirmaljhara Temples In Khallikote Odisha

The Nirmaljhara Temples, also known as the Nirmala Jhara Temples, form a captivating and spiritually significant complex of four Hindu temples located in Khallikote, Odisha. This complex is uniquely integrated with the natural landscape, where a stream of pure water from a natural spring flows through intricately designed stone channels into a serene pond, around which the temples are situated. This sacred watercourse is believed to be a manifestation of the holy river Ganga, originating from the foot of Lord Vishnu, a belief that adds to the sanctity and spiritual allure of the site. Temples in the Nirmaljhar Complex Patipavan Temple: The Patipavan Temple is dedicated to Patitpavan, a revered form of the god Vishnu who is particularly venerated in Odisha. This temple is an important place of worship and draws devotees who seek blessings from Patitpavan. The temple's connection to the sacred spring, thought to be the Ganga, underscores its spiritual importance. Vimala Temple

Allow Music Legend Yesudas into Guruvayur Temple

A debate is going on in the state of Kerala whether music legend Yesudas should be allowed into the world famous Sri Krishna Temple in Guruvayur. Yesudas, a Christian by birth, has rendered hundreds of Hindu devotional songs and is living legend. In fact, in several temples in Kerala, Lord Krishna wakes up listening to his heavenly voice. The singer is warmly received in Sabarimala and the Kollur Mookambika Temple . But several temples in Kerala do not allow non-Hindus to enter the temple premises. Brief History Several years ago, Yesudas was denied permission to participate in a concert in the Guruvayur Temple with his guru and Carnatic legend Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar. Rising to the defense of his able student, Chembai moved the concert venue to another place in the temple town and held an all night concert in praise of Lord Krishna. The Controversy To allow or not to allow Yesudas into the Sri Krishna Temple has been a point of debate in Kerala

Nanne Choda Author Of Kumarasambhava

Nanne Choda is a notable Shaiva poet recognized for his composition "Kumarasambhava," a lengthy poem that narrates the birth of the God Kumara (Karttikeya) and his epic battle with the asura Taraka. While this poem bears some resemblance to Kalidasa’s renowned work of the same name, Nanne Choda distinguishes his narrative by incorporating elements from various sources and crafting unique episodes in his own style. Nanne Choda hailed from the illustrious dynasty of the Velanati Chola kings, a lineage that wielded significant influence in their era. He was born to Srisati and Chodaballi, and he received spiritual and literary guidance from his mentor, Jangama Mallikarjuna. The precise period of Nanne Choda’s life is a subject of scholarly debate. While the majority of historians place him in the twelfth century, there is a faction that contends he may have lived even earlier, before the time of Nannaya, who flourished in the eleventh century. Nanne Choda's contributions

Nachari – Folk Song In Maithili – Lachari

"Nachari" is a traditional folk song genre in the Maithili language, which is spoken primarily in the Mithila region of India and Nepal. The Maithili language has a rich cultural heritage, and its folk music is an integral part of the social and cultural life of the people. Here are some key aspects of Nachari songs: Cultural Context and Significance Rituals and Celebrations: Nachari songs are often performed during various social and religious occasions, including festivals, weddings, and other community gatherings. They play a significant role in preserving and promoting the cultural identity of the Maithili-speaking community. Themes: The themes of Nachari songs vary widely. They can be devotional, celebrating deities like Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga, and other local deities. Some songs are romantic, recounting the love stories and relationships within the community. Others might deal with everyday life, social issues, or the natural beauty of the Mithila region. Mu

What does Hindu Goddess Durga mean?

Goddess Durga is one of the most important deities in the Hindu pantheon. But what is the meaning of Durga? The word Durga literally means ‘difficult to access,’ ‘impossible to overcome’ or ‘hard to reach.’ According to Devi Rahasya Tantra, the goddess got the name after killing a demon named Durgama or Durga. तत्रैव च व्धिश्यामी दुर्गामख्यम महासुरम | दुर्गादेवी ती विख्यातम तन्मे नाम भविष्यति || She is ‘difficult to access’ because she resides atop the Vindhya Mountain , which was very difficult to reach. Therefore, she is also known as Vindhyavasini. Why Goddess Durga Resides On Mountains? In Hindu tradition, Goddess Durga is often depicted as residing on mountains, particularly in the Himalayas. There are several reasons for this symbolic association: Power and Majesty: Mountains are often seen as symbols of strength, stability, and majesty. By residing on a mountain, Goddess Durga is portrayed as embodying these qualities in their highest form. It signifies her

Mahunag: The Naga Deity of Himachal Pradesh

Mahunag is a revered naga deity in Himachal Pradesh, known for its intriguing legends and deep cultural significance. The deity is believed to be an incarnation of Karna, a legendary warrior from the Indian epic, the Mahabharata. The Legend of Mahuna Naga According to popular lore, the origin of Mahuna Naga’s name is rooted in a dramatic tale involving Raja Shyam Sen of Suket and a Mughal King. The story unfolds with Raja Shyam Sen being imprisoned by the Mughal ruler and confined within a large drum. In this dire situation, the deity Mahuna Naga appeared to the imprisoned raja in the form of a mahuna (honey bee). The deity requested a place to stay, to which the raja promised accommodation. In addition, Raja Shyam Sen vowed to give half of his kingdom if Mahuna Naga could secure his release. Accepting the challenge, Mahuna Naga transformed into a human and approached the Mughal ruler, boasting of his prowess in chess. Confident in his abilities, the Mughal ruler agreed to a matc

10 Million Rupees Decoration for Temple Deity

The deity of the famous Muthumariamman temple at Kattur in Coimbatore , Tamil Nadu was decorated with ornaments and cash worth Rupees 10 million for the Tamil New Year. Goddess Muthumariamman was decorated as Dhanalakshmi (Goddess of wealth). The Hindu reports Setting the background with currency notes in the denomination of Rs.1000, currency notes of Rs.500 and Rs.100 were placed under the foot and two sides of the idol, as part of the decoration, all worth about Rupees 4 million, temple authorities claimed. Besides this, the idol was adorned with gold and diamond ornaments worth over Rupees 6 million. It is good to hear that the Goddess was able to attract such huge wealth, and the Goddess will be even more pleased if the wealth will be utilized to help her poor devotees. The Goddess will attract even more wealth when her poor devotees can lead a better life.

Anger And Ego Makes Us Ignore Good Advice – Wisdom Of Hindu Teachers

In Hindu philosophy and teachings, anger and ego are often highlighted as significant obstacles to personal growth and spiritual development. The wisdom of Hindu teachers offers profound insights on how these emotions can cloud judgment and prevent individuals from accepting and acting upon good advice. Here are some key teachings: Bhagavad Gita Ego and Anger: In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna on the battlefield about the dangers of ego and anger. Krishna explains that these emotions stem from desire and attachment, leading to a clouded mind and poor decision-making (Chapter 2, Verse 62-63). Transcending Ego: Krishna emphasizes the importance of selfless action (karma yoga) and surrendering the ego to achieve clarity and wisdom. Teachings of Swami Vivekananda Ego as a Barrier: Swami Vivekananda, a key figure in introducing Hindu philosophies to the Western world, often spoke about the detrimental effects of ego. He believed that ego creates a false sense of se

Bhagavad Gita for Visually Impaired and Blind People

The Braille version of Bhagavad Gita has been developed by the International School of Bhagavad Gita, Trivandrum . The spiritual institution is headed by Swami Sandeepa Chaitanya, who is noted for his unique interpretation of the Bhagavad Gita. The two-volume unabridged version is in Malayalam Braille. According to Swami Sandeep Chaitanya, this is the first ever Braille version of the Gita and it was developed with the help of the ‘Association of Blind’ and software experts. Speaking to the PTI swami said "It is interesting to note that the Gita opens with Sanjaya describing the scene of the epic Kurukshetra war to the blind king Dhritarashtra. So, it is fair that visually impaired persons in our time should not miss an opportunity to read and grasp this eternal work." "When you go through the Gita, you can see how precisely and graphically Sanjaya describes every minute detail of the scene to a blind person, for him to catch comprehensively in his mind,&q

Villagers Parading Bones and Corpses on Bengali New Year

Major newspapers around the world reported about a horrific ritual of parading bones and corpses in a village in West Bengal . According to Reuters, the ritual is called the ‘Naramundo Khela’ (Skull Game) and only takes place in Sona Palasi Village , which is around 165 km west of Kolkata. The ritual is dedicated to Lord Shiva and marks the beginning of Bengali New Year. As part of the festival, some villagers carrying skulls and daggers danced to rhythmic drum beats with their bodies covered with white ash and spotted with red and green paints as around 2,000 other people watched. Police have confirmed about the ritual taking place and they are investigating the case. Environmental and social activists have come out against this horrific ritual. The report first appeared in Reuters and was later published in newspapers around the world. Till now, none of the Indian newspapers have reported about the ritual. (No idea whether it is being reported in the regional newspap

Popular Stories Of Chandra – The Moon God – In Hinduism

Chandra, the Moon God, is a significant deity in Hindu mythology and appears in various stories that highlight his importance and influence. Here are some popular tales involving Chandra: Chandra and Tara:  One of the most famous stories involving Chandra is his relationship with Tara, the wife of Brihaspati, the guru of the gods. Chandra abducted Tara, leading to a great conflict known as the Tarakamaya War. The gods intervened, and eventually, Tara was returned to Brihaspati. However, Tara was pregnant and gave birth to a son, Budha (the planet Mercury), whose father was Chandra. This incident is significant in Hindu astrology, linking the celestial bodies and their mythological narratives. The Curse of Daksha:  Chandra was married to the 27 daughters of Daksha Prajapati, representing the 27 Nakshatras (lunar mansions) in Hindu astrology. Chandra, however, favored one wife, Rohini, more than the others. This partiality angered Daksha, who cursed Chandra to wane and lose his brill

Hindus in Canada Need a Designated River for Burial Ritual

Canadian Hindus are looking out for a designated water body for burial ritual. According to 2001 census, Canada is home to more than 300,000 practicing Hindus and majority of them are third and second generation Hindu Canadians. Earlier, they used to carry the ashes to India but slowly many are opting to disperse them in the rivers in Canada . But they don’t have a designated river and therefore they are doing the ritual in an unceremonious way. Jeanne Gagnon writes in National Post "Currently, people are depositing the ashes in bodies of water, in Lake Ontario and other places, but they are doing it in a very unceremonious manner -- with fears in their minds that they may be doing something wrong," said Roopnauth Sharma, the president of the United Hindu Federation and the spiritual leader of the Shri Ram temple in Mississauga. The search for a designated site began when a growing number of Hindus started placing ashes, leaves and flowers in Canadian waterways.

To Avoid Disappointment In Life Hope For Nothing – Hindu Wisdom

The phrase "To avoid disappointment in life, hope for nothing" reflects a philosophical perspective found in various Hindu teachings. This idea suggests that detachment from expectations and desires can lead to a more content and peaceful life. Here’s an exploration of this concept within the context of Hindu wisdom: Detachment (Vairagya) In Hindu philosophy, particularly in the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, detachment from the results of one's actions is emphasized. Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to perform his duties without attachment to the outcomes. This principle is known as Nishkama Karma, which means selfless action without any desire for reward. Acceptance and Equanimity Hindu wisdom teaches the value of accepting life as it comes. The practice of equanimity (Samabhava) encourages maintaining a balanced mind in success and failure, pleasure and pain. By not clinging to specific outcomes, one can avoid the emotional turmoil that arises from unmet expectatio

Vaishno Devi Ladoos and Economic Empowerment of Women

The ladoos (sweet) that are given as ‘prasad’ (offering) in the famous Vaishno Devi temple is slowly transforming the financial fortune of Parthal village, which is two kilometer from the shrine. Thanks to Dr Anil P Joshi of Himalayan Environmental Studies and Conservation Organisation (HESCO), who during one of his visits to the shrine noticed that the ‘ladoos’ distributed in the shrine came from far flung urban centers and thought about changing it. Raju William writes in Tribune Anil P Joshi said “At the shrine, I noticed that prasad offered here was prepared and brought from outside urban centers, so I thought why can’t this be prepared by the rural folks, especially women of the area by equipping them with technology evolved by my organization to process the local farm produce. To me, this seemed as a sure way of providing employment to them.” So, this village nearest to the shrine was chosen for the purpose after assessing the economic condition of its people. He t

Open Air Hindu Cremation Issue in Britain

Cremation laws in the United Kingdom do not permit open air cremations like the one practiced in Hinduism. A recent attempt to establish an open air cremation site was blocked by the Newcastle City Council. Davender Kumar Ghai, a 68-year-old practicing Hindu, challenged the council order in the court and demanded the right to be cremated on an open-air pyre when he died. A High Court has approved to take up the Judicial Review petition. But no date has been set for the Judicial Review petition. Times of India reports Davendar Kumar Ghai, founder and president of the Anglo-Asian Friendship Society, created headlines last July when he arranged the first human funeral pyre in Britain since the Home Office authorised the outdoor cremation of Sumshere Jung, a Nepalese princess and the

Too Many Failures In Life Is Due To The Lack Of Single-Minded Focus – Hinduism Teaching

The Hindu teaching that "Too many failures in life are due to the lack of single-minded focus" can be explored through various principles and philosophies embedded in Hinduism. This concept emphasizes the importance of dedication, concentration, and unwavering focus to achieve success and fulfillment in life. Here are several aspects of Hindu philosophy that underscore this teaching: Dharma (Duty and Righteousness) Dharma refers to one's duty and the moral order of the universe. In Hinduism, performing one's dharma with single-minded focus is essential. The Bhagavad Gita, a key text in Hindu philosophy, emphasizes doing one's duty without attachment to the results. This requires concentration and a dedicated approach, as distractions can lead to failure in fulfilling one's responsibilities. Yoga (Union and Discipline) Yoga, often understood as a spiritual and physical discipline, involves practices that cultivate focus and concentration. The eight limb

Dalita Govindam

As reported earlier, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) organized a Dalita Govindam in the Dalitawada of Vemuru Village situated near Tirupati on April 9th. T he processional deity of Lord Malyappaswamy and His consorts at Goddess Padmavathi Ammavari Temple in Tiruchanur and were taken out in a colorful procession to the Vermuru village. The deity was placed on a decorated rostrum at the colony where the priests performed ‘Kalyanotsavam.’ People in the village were given prasadam and the pundits gave them the Vedic ‘asirvachanams,’ which is normally an exclusive prerogative of the VIPs. Later ‘Saha Pankthi Bhojanam (meal) – wherein all without any caste discrimination shared the prasadam, and more importantly slept for the night in the same village along with the deities. A step in the right direction but TTD should concentrate more on providing free education to those who have suffered due to the caste system. Job opportunities should be created for women. If util

It Is Due To Attachment That We Get Easily Disturbed By The World – Hindu Religion Wisdom

The idea that attachment leads to disturbances in one's mind and life is a central theme in Hindu philosophy and wisdom. This concept is particularly emphasized in texts like the Bhagavad Gita and the teachings of various sages and spiritual leaders. Here are some key points from Hindu philosophy that explain this idea: Attachment and Desire Attachment is often linked with desire (kama) in Hindu teachings. When individuals become attached to objects, people, or outcomes, they develop desires and expectations. These desires can lead to frustration, disappointment, and emotional disturbances when they are not fulfilled. The Bhagavad Gita states: "From attachment arises desire; from desire arises anger; from anger comes delusion; from delusion, loss of memory; from loss of memory, the destruction of intelligence; and with the destruction of intelligence, one perishes." (Bhagavad Gita 2.62-63) The Concept of Detachment (Vairagya) Detachment, or vairagya, is highly v