The Marxist government of Kerala has decided to award the prestigious Raja Ravi Varma Award this year to M F Hussain. Ravi Varma paintings are noted for its sublimity and beauty. They are the best examples of the fusion of Indian traditions with the techniques of European academic art. A common man who is a novice to the world of painting will be attracted by Raja Ravi Varma’s painting. Now, M F Hussain is better known for his painting controversies. A novice to the world of painting will need to use his/her brain to understand Hussain’s painting. So it is worthwhile comparing the two painters - one who is among the greatest painters in India and another one who is among the greatest controversial painters in India . Quite often the Indian public makes an opinion without actually seeing the paintings. Either a person allies with the communists or the communalists or the pseudo-secularists. Each reader of this blog post should compare the paintings and should come ou

Yoga Vasishta is an important Vedanta text. It is narrated in the style of the Puranas and its content is philosophy. Yoga Vasishta, also referred as Yoga Vasistha Maharamayana, is ascribed to sage Valmiki and consists of 32,000 slokas. In the Yoga Vasistha, Sage Vasishta answers the queries of Lord Ram. The questions raised by Lord Ram pertain to problems like life and death, human suffering, desire, happiness etc. Yoga Vasishta is divided into six sections Dispassion Aspiration Origin Existence Quiescence Liberation Through numerous stories, each section elucidates the truths of Vedanta. There is also a smaller version of Yoga Vasistha called the ‘Laghu Yoga Vasistha.’ It contains 6000 verses and is an abridgement of the original. The Essence of Yoga Vasistha Here are 20 key points that encapsulate the essence of Yoga Vasistha: Non-Duality (Advaita): The text emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality, asserting that all manifestations are expressi

The wisdom of ancient Hindu teachers often revolves around understanding the nature of life and the universe, and recognizing the role of human actions and divine will in shaping our experiences. The statement "Gain and loss, success and failure, praise and censure originate from man and God has nothing to do with it" reflects a philosophical perspective found in various Hindu teachings. Here’s an exploration of this idea within the context of Hindu philosophy: The Concept of Karma In Hinduism, the principle of karma is central to understanding human experiences. Karma refers to the law of cause and effect, where every action has a corresponding reaction. According to this belief: Gain and Loss: The material gains and losses one experiences are results of past actions (karma). Good actions lead to positive outcomes, while negative actions lead to adverse results. Success and Failure: Achievements and setbacks in life are also seen as outcomes of one's past deeds.

The building of the bridge, now referred as Ram Sethu, across the ocean occurs in the Yuddha Kanda of the Ramayana. In the Second chapter of the Yuddha Kanda, Lord Ram and Lakshman along with the Vanara Sena (Monkey Army) march southwards and reach the ocean. Lord Rama said: “Sugriva we have arrived at the southern shore of this great sea. I am again tormented with the diffidence which visited me before. This lord of the rivers has his other shore too far away from here. It is not possible to cross the sea unless we hit upon a method soon. Let the army call a halt here now. Let us sit and think up methods of crossing this wide ocean.” The next reference of building the bridge across the sea occurs in the sixth chapter of the Yuddha Kanda. Now, Vibhishana, the brother of Ravana, has jumped sides and is now helping Lord Ram. Vibhishana suggests that Lord Ram should ask the favor of the lord of the seas. Lord Ram agreed to the suggestion and asked the opinion of Lakshmana a

Betrayal can be a deeply painful experience, and Hinduism offers various teachings and practices to help one overcome it. Here are some key approaches based on Hindu philosophy and practices: 1. Understanding Karma Law of Karma: Hinduism teaches the concept of karma, which is the law of cause and effect. Understanding that every action has a consequence can help individuals come to terms with betrayal. It can be seen as a part of one's karmic journey, and a lesson to be learned. Acceptance: Accepting that the betrayal might be a result of past actions (in this life or previous ones) can bring a sense of closure and reduce the feeling of victimization. 2. Forgiveness and Letting Go Practice Forgiveness: Forgiveness is highly emphasized in Hindu teachings. Holding onto anger and resentment can harm oneself more than the betrayer. Forgiving doesn't mean condoning the action but releasing the emotional burden. Bhagavad Gita Teachings: In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna

The millions of Hindu Gods and Goddesses, to be exact 330 million, represent the various aspects of the Supreme Being – Brahman. In Hinduism, Brahman is the supreme soul of the universe, self-existent, absolute and eternal, from which all living and non-living emanate, and to which all return. When a Hindu climbs up the ladder of knowledge, the concept of gods and goddesses begins to vanish and he/she will finally merge with the Brahman. So, in reality, there are no gods and goddesses in Sanatana Dharma or Hinduism. This is because the gods, goddesses and devotee all merge into the Brahman. Yes, this is hard to digest for an ordinary human being. For an average human being, god is someone who helps to climb that extra yard. Who helps when in pain. Who helps to pass examinations. Who helps to get promotions. And who helps in all the desires that arise in the mind of a human being. So he/she cannot easily understand the concept of Brahman. He/She needs something to co

In Hindu wisdom, various scriptures and teachings emphasize the importance of controlling negative emotions and desires to lead a successful and fulfilling life. The concepts of anger, desire, untruth, and delusion are seen as obstacles on the path to spiritual and personal growth. Here's a detailed look at how each of these factors is addressed in Hindu philosophy: 1. Anger (Krodha) Bhagavad Gita: In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna explains to Arjuna that anger arises from unfulfilled desires and leads to confusion and loss of reason, ultimately resulting in failure. "From anger comes delusion; from delusion, loss of memory; from loss of memory, the destruction of discrimination; from the destruction of discrimination, one perishes." (Bhagavad Gita 2.63). Management: Practicing self-control, mindfulness, and forgiveness are recommended to overcome anger. Techniques like meditation and yoga are also suggested to maintain calmness and equanimity. 2. Desire (Kama)

In Hinduism, gods (devas) and demons (asuras) indeed share a common lineage, according to various mythological texts, including the Vedas, Puranas, and epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana. This concept is rooted in the idea that both groups originated from the same primordial entities and share a familial connection. Here’s a detailed explanation of their shared lineage: Common Ancestry: Kashyapa and Aditi: The devas are often described as the children of the sage Kashyapa and his wife Aditi. They are thus called Adityas. Some of the prominent Adityas include Indra, Surya (the sun god), and Agni (the fire god). Kashyapa and Diti: The asuras, on the other hand, are often described as the children of Kashyapa and his other wife, Diti. This makes the asuras and devas half-siblings. Devas and Asuras: Devas: The term "deva" refers to the gods or celestial beings who are typically associated with positive aspects of the cosmos, such as light, order, and benevolence. T

Paidva, the illustrious equine of mythic renown, gallops through the verses of the Rig Veda, a symbol of potency and divine grace. Bestowed upon Pedu by the benevolent Ashwini Kumars, this ethereal stallion stands as a testament to the celestial alliance between man and gods. Clad in the resplendent hue of purity, Paidva's snow-white form radiates brilliance, a beacon of reverence for those who invoke his name. Within the hymns of antiquity, Paidva emerges as a formidable force, likened unto the mighty Indra himself, the wielder of thunderbolts. With sinewy sinews and hooves that thunder across the celestial plains, he strikes fear into the hearts of serpentine foes, their hissing menace no match for his divine prowess. Dragons and serpents alike quiver at the mere mention of his name, for Paidva is the slayer of such primordial adversaries, vanquishing them with an unmatched ferocity. In the fray of battle, Paidva reigns supreme, his very presence heralding victory for those w

Padakalpataru, a resplendent canopy of poetic expressions, stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of devotion woven by the medieval Vaishnava saints. Compiled in the 18th century CE by the venerable Gokulananda Sen, affectionately known as Vaishnava Dasa, this anthology resonates with the mellifluous echoes of 3101 verses, each a radiant gem adorning the crown of divine adoration. Spanning the linguistic spectrum of Bengali, Brajaboli, and Sanskrit, Padakalpataru serves as a sacred reservoir of spiritual fervor. Within its hallowed pages, one encounters the sublime romance between Radha and Krishna, immortalized in verse, their celestial love transcending the bounds of mortal comprehension. Yet, amidst the amorous rhapsodies, the anthology also reverberates with the teachings and essence of Sri Chaitanya, the divine avatar who heralded a renaissance of devotion. Among the illustrious poets gracing its pages are luminaries such as Jnanadasa, whose verses illuminate the path of d

The Baidyanath Temple, located in Deoghar, Jharkhand, India, is one of the most renowned and revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its history dates back centuries, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. Ancient Origins: The origins of the Baidyanath Temple can be traced back to ancient times. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that during the Treta Yuga (an epoch in Hindu cosmology), Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, worshipped Lord Shiva at this site. Impressed by his devotion, Lord Shiva blessed him with immense power. Legend of Ravana and the Lingam: The temple is particularly famous for its Jyotirlinga, a sacred representation of Lord Shiva. Legend has it that Ravana, in his quest for invincibility, sought to bring the lingam (symbol of Shiva) to Lanka. However, while carrying it, he was tricked by Lord Vishnu and the lingam got grounded at Deoghar, giving rise to the Baidyanath Jyotirlinga. Construction: The temple as it stands today was built in

The Warrior and the Charioteer: A Materialist Interpretation of the Bhagavad Gita is a book by V. M. Mohanraj. The book is published by Leftword. So what has the book to say about Bhagavad Gita? From the book “the Mahabharata is not a chronicle or a document of history but Vyasa composed it by piecing together themes that were the subjects of ballads and sagas. Another key observation: “The personality of the Yadava chief Krishna thus extends far back in time and its origin is steeped in mystery....The many Krishnas of the past have been superimposed on the Krishna of the Bhagavad Gita , thus bringing forth a synthesized charming image, sans whatever negative traits they had.” There are more such communist oriented observations. Although many Hindus might find it hard to digest certain observations in the book, there is no doubt that the book is refreshing because it looks at the Bhagavad Gita from a different perspective.

Vishnu temples at Nangur are a group of 11 temples near Nangur in Mayiladuthurai district of Tamil Nadu, India. These eleven temples are known as Thiru Nangur Divya Desams. The story of the origin of 11 Vishnu temples are associated with Rudra Avatar of Shiva. In the celestial realms where gods and goddesses roamed, there existed a profound love between Lord Shiva and his divine consort, Goddess Sati. However, their idyllic existence was shattered when Sati's father, Daksha, insulted Shiva in a fit of arrogance at the now infamous Daksha Yajna to which Shiva was not invited. Unable to bear the disrespect towards her beloved husband, Sati sacrificed herself in the flames of her own agony. The news of Sati's sacrifice shook the heavens, and grief-stricken Shiva, overwhelmed by fury and sorrow, unleashed the cataclysmic dance of destruction known as the Rudra Thaandavam. His dance, performed near the confluence of the Cauvery and Mani rivers, reverberated across the cosmos, th

The Tota Gopinath Temple, located in the Yameshwara Tota area of Sri Jagannath Puri Dham, stands out among Krishna temples due to its rare depiction of Krishna in a seated posture. Most temples feature Bhagavan Sri Krishna standing, making this temple exceptionally unique. The murti, or idol, worshipped here was discovered by Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a revered figure in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition. The temple holds significant historical and spiritual importance, deeply connected to the devotion of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu towards Bhagavan Sri Krishna. Discovery and Significance After 5000 years of Kali-yuga had passed, Lord Krishna, along with Srimati Radharani, incarnated as Chaitanya Mahaprabhu to propagate the chanting of Krishna's holy names as the sole path to salvation in this age. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu established Jagannath Puri as his primary center for spreading Vaishnavism. While in Jagannath Puri, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, immersed in his love for Krishna, mistook

Here are some interesting facts about the Hindu god Ganesha: Name Origin: Ganesha is also known as Ganapati or Vinayaka. His name is derived from "Gana," which means a group, and "Isha," which means lord or master. Hence, he is the lord of all groups or categories. Elephant Head: Ganesha is recognized by his elephant head, symbolizing wisdom, intelligence, and understanding. Son of Shiva and Parvati: Ganesha is the son of Lord Shiva, the destroyer, and Parvati, the goddess of fertility, love, and devotion. Remover of Obstacles: He is widely revered as the remover of obstacles, both material and spiritual, and the god of beginnings. Vighnaharta: Ganesha is often referred to as Vighnaharta, which means the remover of obstacles in Sanskrit. First Worshipped God: In Hindu rituals, Ganesha is often worshipped before any other deity, especially at the beginning of any new venture or undertaking. Lord of Wisdom: He is also considered the lord of wisdom, k

Mandukya Upanishad is one of the shortest Upanishads and explains the significance of OM or AUM. Mandukya Upanishad is credited to sage Manduka. Summary Introduction and Invocation:  The Upanishad begins with an invocation, expressing the desire for auspiciousness and well-being. It invokes various gods such as Indra, Pusha, and Brihaspati, seeking their blessings for prosperity and peace. Verse 1: The Significance of Om:  Om is declared to encompass everything - past, present, and future. It transcends time itself, symbolizing the ultimate reality. Verse 2: Om and Brahman:  Brahman, the ultimate reality, is equated with Om. Brahman is the essence of everything, including the Self. Verses 3-5: The Four Quarters of the Self: The Self is described in four quarters. Vaisvanara represents the waking state, Taijasa the dream state, and Prajna the deep sleep state. The fourth quarter transcends consciousness and is the source of all states. Verse 6: The Supreme Lord: The Self is identifie

Odisha, a state in India known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient temples, has several notable Ganesha temples that attract devotees and tourists alike. Here are some popular Ganesha temples in Odisha: Mausima Temple, Puri: This temple is located near the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri. It is also known as Ardhasani Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ardhasani who is considered a maternal aunt (Mausi) of Lord Jagannath. A shrine of Lord Ganesha is also present in this temple. Kanchi Ganesha Temple, Puri: Located inside the Lord Jagannath temple.It is a small Ganesh temple and the idol was gifted by the king of Kanchi as per the temple history. Ganapati Temple, Balasore: Situated in Balasore district, this temple is known for its grand celebrations during the Ganesha Chaturthi festival. The temple attracts a large number of devotees, especially during the festival period. Chintamaniswar Temple, Bhubaneswar: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva but has a significant

OM or AUM is the most important word or sound in Hindu religion. OM symbolizes Brahman with attributes and Brahman without attributes. The ‘ OM ’ vibrates through the vast tradition of Hinduism and the importance of the word is explained by Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita. I am the One to be known, the syllable OM. (IX. 17.) I am the OM in all the Vedas. (VII. 8.) One should meditate on Me uttering ‘ OM ’ – the Brahman in one syllable. He who thus leaves the body attains liberation. (VIII. 13.) The Mandukya Upanishad is entirely dedicated to explaining the significance of OM – the Bij Mantra. All this is the letter Om. A vivid explanation of this. All that is past, present, and future is but Om. Whatever transcends the three periods of time, too, is Om. (Chapter I, Verse 1) All this is certainly Brahman. This Self is Brahman. This Self, as such, is possessed of four quarters. (Chapter I, Verse 2) OM comprises of three sounds. The first sound ‘A’

Haryashvas are a significant group in Hindu mythology, known for their unique decision that sets them apart in the ancient texts. They are the collective name for the 5000 mind-born sons of Daksha, a prominent progenitor deity in Hinduism. The story of the Haryashvas is a profound tale of renunciation and spiritual awakening, showcasing themes of detachment and the pursuit of higher knowledge. Origins and Parentage The Haryashvas were the sons of Daksha and were created through his mind, a process called "manasaputras" in Sanskrit. Daksha, a prajapati (lord of creation), had the responsibility to populate the world. He created these sons with the expectation that they would marry, procreate, and further the process of creation. The Turning Point Despite Daksha's intentions, the Haryashvas took a different path. They were taught by the sage Narada, a divine sage known for his wisdom and often considered a cosmic troublemaker. Narada expounded on the transient natur

Several pilgrims who had visited the Badrinath Temple this year had reported about cracks on Neelkanth Mountain overlooking the temple. A team of scientists from Geological Survey of India and Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology that visited the temple has ruled out any danger to the Badrinath Temple from the cracks. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and was built by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. The scientists are planning to conduct and aerial survey when the climate permits to ascertain the exact cause of the cracks. Hindustan Times reports "Although the team was unable to conduct an aerial survey due to inclement weather, they were able to see some cracks on the mountain through their binoculars," said Dr. PC Nawani, Director, Geological Survey of India. He added that although the exact nature of the cracks can be determined after a proper aerial survey, there is no immediate threat of avalanches damaging the popular shrine or the Ba

In Hinduism, Himavan, also known as Himavat or Himavantha, is revered as the personification of the Himalayas, the sacred and majestic mountain range that forms the northern boundary of India. As the god of mountains, Himavan holds a significant place in various Hindu texts, including the Vedas, Puranas, and epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana. He is often given the title of the King of mountains or the god of mountains. Family and Mythological Background Himavan's Spouse: Mena (Menaka) Himavan is married to Mena, also spelled Menaka. She is described as a divine being herself, often associated with the celestial nymphs or Apsaras. Mena is venerated as a symbol of motherly love and devotion. Children of Himavan and Mena Parvati (Aparna): Parvati, also known as Aparna, is perhaps the most well-known daughter of Himavan and Mena. She is a principal deity in Hinduism and is revered as the goddess of love, fertility, and devotion. Parvati is the consort of Lord Shiva, o

The famous Guruvayur Temple in Kerala was cleaned – Punyaham spraying (purification rite) – on Saturday, May 19, 2007 , after Vayalar Ravi’s son and family entered the temple. Ravi Krishna, the union minister’s son, failed to produce the certificate needed to prove that he was a Hindu. Hindustan Times reports The minister had visited the temple with his family on Friday to perform the choroonu (ceremonial rice-feeding of the infant) of his six-month-old grandson Rajiv Krishna. After the ceremony, the minister had spent about an hour at the temple. Guruvayoor Devaswom Board chairman Thottathil Ravindran confirmed the incident. “Tantri is the final word as far as temple rituals are concerned. He instructed the temple to perform the purification rite. But personally I feel some of the old traditions will have to be changed with time,” he told the Hindustan Times. It must be noted that Vayalar Ravi is married to Mercy Ravi, a Christian. If ever there is a cleani

The saying "To love all impartially, do not demand anything from people you love" captures a profound philosophical and ethical stance often found in Hindu teachings. Here’s an interpretation of this saying in the context of Hindu philosophy: Unconditional Love Hindu philosophy, particularly through texts like the Bhagavad Gita and teachings of various saints and sages, emphasizes the importance of unconditional love. True love, according to these teachings, is not contingent upon the actions or behaviors of others. It is a state of being that flows naturally and freely without expectations or conditions. Impartiality Impartiality is a key virtue in many Hindu teachings. It refers to treating all beings with equal respect and consideration. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to rise above dualities and see all beings as equal, as manifestations of the same divine essence. By not demanding anything from others, one practices impartiality, acknowledging t

The quote "Life is a continuous struggle against our rebelling mind and the impressions stored in it" reflects profound aspects of Hindu philosophy and spirituality. It highlights the internal battle individuals face in seeking self-mastery and spiritual growth. Here’s a breakdown of this wisdom through the lens of Hindu thought: 1. The Rebelling Mind (Manas) Manas: In Hinduism, the mind (manas) is often seen as a tool that can either lead to liberation (moksha) or bondage (samsara). The mind is responsible for thoughts, emotions, and desires, and it is easily influenced by sensory inputs and external circumstances. Control and Discipline: The Bhagavad Gita, a key Hindu scripture, emphasizes the importance of controlling the mind. In Chapter 6, Verse 6, it states, "For him who has conquered the mind, the mind is the best of friends; but for one who has failed to do so, his very mind will be the greatest enemy." Meditation and Yoga: Practices such as meditat

The story of Shakuntala is one of the most beloved and enduring tales in Indian literature, originating from the Mahabharata and later elaborated by the classical Sanskrit playwright Kalidasa in his play "Abhijnanasakuntalam" (The Recognition of Shakuntala). Shakuntala The Mahabharata Version In the Mahabharata, Shakuntala is the daughter of the sage Vishwamitra and the apsara (celestial nymph) Menaka. Abandoned by her parents, she is found and raised by the sage Kanva in his hermitage. Shakuntala grows up into a beautiful and virtuous woman. One day, King Dushyanta, while on a hunting expedition, encounters Shakuntala and falls deeply in love with her. They marry according to the Gandharva rite (a form of marriage by mutual consent without rituals). Dushyanta gives Shakuntala his royal ring as a token of his promise to return for her. Shakuntala, now pregnant, waits for Dushyanta, but he does not return. One day, she is visited by the sage Durvasa, known for his temp

Lava Kusa – The Warrior Twins is yet another animation film based on Hindu mythology. Based on the epic Ramayana, the story of the film revolves around Lava and Kusa (Lav and Kusha) , the twin sons of Lord Ram and Sita. The film is produced by Kanipakam Creations, in association with RVML animation studios. Lava Kusa, a full-length 90 minute 2D feature film, will be released in English, Hindi and Telugu. Music is by noted music director S.L. Vaidyanathan and lyrics by Vetoori Sundara Rama Murthy.

In Hindu philosophy, the idea that a man who is a slave to sense enjoyments identifies himself only with his mind and body is deeply rooted in the concepts of Maya (illusion) and Avidya (ignorance). Here’s an explanation of this teaching: Context and Meaning Attachment to Sense Enjoyments: Sense Enjoyments: These refer to pleasures derived from the five senses – sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. Slavery to Senses: When an individual becomes overly attached to these sensory pleasures, they become enslaved by them, meaning their actions and thoughts are driven predominantly by the desire to fulfill these sensory cravings. Identification with Mind and Body: In Hinduism, the true self, or Atman, is considered to be distinct from the mind and body. The Atman is the eternal, unchanging soul, whereas the mind and body are transient and subject to change and decay. When a person identifies only with the mind and body, they are essentially identifying with their temporary, p

The book, Incredible India – Traditions and Rituals, delves into the tradition and rituals in Hinduism and other religions in India . The book is part of the Incredible India series from Wisdom Tree and is written by Muthusamy Varadarajan. The book explains how India 's prevalent rituals and traditions emerged as tools of self-expression and as channels through which material rewards could be solicited. Excerpt from the book "Traditions are the salt and spice of life. The traditions of respect to elders, particularly the parents and the guru, hospitality, regard for women, loyalty and friendship, compassion, love and mercy, honesty, concern for ecology and environment, kindness to animals, equality of mankind, respect for and non-deviation from justice and, most of all, the acknowledgement of the intrinsic equality of all religions, are what can rightfully and legitimately be called our own inalienable traditions."

The phrase "Forget the names and forms and see the single source of light behind all" encapsulates a profound aspect of Hindu teaching, particularly within the Advaita Vedanta tradition. Here's an expanded explanation of this concept: The Essence of Non-Duality Advaita Vedanta Philosophy: Advaita means "non-dual" in Sanskrit. It is a school of Hindu philosophy that emphasizes the idea that there is only one ultimate reality, known as Brahman. Brahman is the unchanging, infinite, immanent, and transcendent reality that is the Divine Ground of all being. It is beyond all forms and names, which are considered transient and illusory (Maya). Names and Forms (Nama-Rupa) Maya and Illusion: In Advaita Vedanta, the world we perceive with its multitude of names and forms is seen as Maya, an illusion that veils the true nature of reality. Nama (name) and Rupa (form) are the attributes that define the physical and conceptual world. These distinctions are par