Chandodari is a lesser-known but significant character in the great Indian epic, the Ramayana. As a rakshasi (demoness) in the service of Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, Chandodari played a crucial role during the period when Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, was held captive in the Ashoka Vatika. Her primary duties were to guard Sita and to convince her to accept Ravana's proposal of marriage. Role and Duties Ravana, after abducting Sita from the forest of Panchavati, placed her in the beautiful but heavily guarded Ashoka Vatika. He assigned Chandodari, among other rakshasis, to watch over Sita constantly. The demonesses were instructed to persuade Sita to abandon her loyalty to Rama and become Ravana's queen. Chandodari was particularly zealous in her efforts, often using a combination of threats and cajoling to wear down Sita's resistance. Despite her fearsome appearance and terrifying demeanor, Chandodari's attempts were met with unwavering defiance from Sita, who...

Lladro, a Spanish firm noted for high quality porcelain figurines, has issued a limited edition porcelain figurine of Goddess Lakshmi – the Hindu Goddess of wealth. Part of Lladro 2007 fall issue , the figurine is presently available in many online stores and retails for $3,780 (Lladro yahoo price). Only 2000 figurines of this limited edition are available for sale. The Goddess Lakshmi figurine as described by Lladro - A fair lady, seated on a full-bloomed lotus and also holding two lotus buds, which stand for beauty, purity and fertility. Her four hands represent the four ends of human life (Purusharthas). A plate with gold coins is found in front of her, suggesting that she blesses with wealth those who worship her. She is bejeweled and dressed in fine garments, wearing gold embroidered red clothes. Particular attention has been paid to the expression of the face, with a pink complexion and soft make-up to enhance the fine female features. Sculptor is Francisco Polope and Size includ...

The Bhagavad Gita is a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Hindu epic Mahabharata. It is a sacred text of the Hindu religion and is considered a philosophical and spiritual guide. The Gita addresses the moral and philosophical dilemmas faced by the warrior prince Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra and provides profound teachings on life, duty (dharma), righteousness, and the nature of the self. Concept of Inertia in the Gita Inertia, in the context of the Bhagavad Gita, can be linked to the concept of Tamas, one of the three Gunas (qualities) that influence human behavior. The three Gunas are: Sattva (goodness, harmony) Rajas (passion, activity) Tamas (ignorance, inactivity, lethargy) Tamas is characterized by darkness, inertia, and a lack of motivation. A person dominated by Tamas is likely to be lethargic, indifferent, and resistant to change or action. Why the Bhagavad Gita May Not Help the Inert Lack of Action and Engagement: The Gita emphasizes acti...

Sant Dnyaneshwar or Saint Jnaneshwar readapted the Sanskrit Bhagavad Gita in Marathi Prakrit (old dialect used by common Maharashtrians) and it is known as Dhnyashwari or Jnaneswari. This new English translation of Saint Jnaneshwar’s Bhagavad Gita is done by Dr. Ravin Thatte and is titled ‘The Genius of Dnyaneshwar.’ Dhnyashwari, the highly appreciated and widely read Bhagavad Gita adaptation, was primarily intended for common people who were not able to understand and read the original Sanskrit version. The original version only contains 700 verses but Saint Jnaneshwar’s Jnaneswari contains 9000 verses. Saint Jnaneshwar was a youngster when this path breaking literary work was completed. The new English translation of Dhnyashwari contains both explanation and translation of the verses and contains 123 chapters. Some repetitions and ambiguous portions have been avoided in the translation. The translator Dr. Ravin Thatte is a famous plastic surgeon and the transla...

Modern restlessness, often characterized by anxiety, dissatisfaction, and a pervasive sense of unease, can be explored through the lens of Hindu philosophy as a manifestation of spiritual decadence. Hinduism offers a deep reservoir of wisdom that addresses the root causes of such restlessness and provides pathways to inner peace and contentment. Key Concepts in Hinduism Addressing Restlessness: Dharma (Duty/Righteousness):  Dharma refers to the moral order, duties, and the righteous path one must follow. When individuals neglect their dharma, they often experience inner conflict and restlessness. Adhering to one's dharma brings harmony and a sense of purpose. Karma (Action and its Consequences):  Karma underscores the importance of actions and their consequences. Unresolved actions or negative karma can lead to a restless mind. Understanding and rectifying past actions can lead to peace and reduce restlessness. Artha (Material Pursuits):  While pursuing material w...

The incarnations of Lord Shiva mentioned in the Kurma Purana present a fascinating aspect of Hindu tradition. While some of these incarnations are not widely popular, each carries its own significance and symbolism. Here, I'll share brief descriptions of some of the lesser-known incarnations along with any available stories associated with them: Shveta: Known for his radiant white complexion, Shveta is believed to represent purity and auspiciousness. However, specific stories regarding this incarnation may not be widely available. Sutara: Sutara could refer to someone who helps in crossing over difficulties or obstacles. It's possible that this incarnation symbolizes Lord Shiva's role in guiding devotees through challenges, but specific narratives are scarce. Madana: Madana, which means 'intoxicating' or 'charming,' suggests an aspect of Lord Shiva associated with attraction or allure. This incarnation might represent Shiva's ability to captiva...

The ancient Hindu teachers, known as gurus or acharyas, placed a significant emphasis on the quality of education rather than the quantity. This approach is deeply rooted in the spiritual and philosophical traditions of Hinduism, where the ultimate goal of education was to lead a meaningful and virtuous life, rather than merely accumulating information. Personal Development and Inner Growth Ancient Hindu education focused on the holistic development of an individual. The gurus aimed to cultivate virtues such as discipline, humility, compassion, and self-control in their students. The teachings were designed to nurture the inner self, leading to self-realization and enlightenment (moksha). This contrasts sharply with a system that prioritizes rote learning or the sheer volume of knowledge. Gurukul System: The Essence of Quality The gurukul system, a traditional form of education in ancient India, exemplified the emphasis on quality. In a gurukul, students lived with their teache...

The Hindu teaching that emphasizes conquering craving for achieving happiness and freedom is deeply rooted in its spiritual and philosophical traditions. This concept is particularly evident in texts like the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads, which explore the nature of desire and its impact on human well-being and liberation. Desire and Suffering (Dukkha): Hindu philosophy often associates craving (desire) with suffering. Unfulfilled desires lead to frustration and mental turmoil, keeping individuals trapped in a cycle of dissatisfaction. Attachment and Detachment: Attachment (raga) to material possessions, people, and outcomes is seen as a source of bondage. Detachment (vairagya) is recommended as a path to freedom. This doesn’t imply renunciation of the world but rather an internal detachment from the results of actions. Bhagavad Gita Teachings: In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to perform his duties without attachment to the results. This principle, know...

The Trivikrama form of Vishnu is a highly symbolic and significant aspect of Hindu mythology, especially within the context of the Vamana avatar. This form is depicted in the myth of Vamana, the dwarf incarnation of Vishnu, who transforms into the giant Trivikrama to reclaim the universe from the demon king Bali. Here are some key symbolic elements associated with the Trivikrama form: Three Steps: The most prominent symbol in the Trivikrama form is the act of covering the universe in three steps. This represents the all-encompassing nature of Vishnu and his control over the three worlds (earth, heaven, and the netherworld). It symbolizes the idea that the divine pervades all aspects of existence. Cosmic Authority: Trivikrama’s steps illustrate Vishnu's authority over the cosmos. His first step covers the earth, his second step reaches the heavens, and his third step, for which Bali offers his own head, signifies the subjugation of ego and surrender to the divine will. This act...

Sri Lakshmi Narayani Temple located in Sripuram, a spiritual town, in Thirumalaikkodi, about six km from Vellore in Tamil Nadu is made with 1.5 tonnes of gold. The Golden temple is built by Sri Sakthi Amma, head of the Sri Narayani Peedam, a private religious charitable organization. Don’t be surprised, Sri Sakthi Amma is not a female saint but a 30-year-old man. His devotees address him as Sri Sakthi Amma or Sri Narayani Amma or just Amma. The temple was consecrated on August 24, 2007 . The interior and exterior of the ‘vimanam’ and ‘ardha mandapam’ of the Sri Lakshmi Narayani Temple have been coated with gold. The temple is located on a 100-acre land and has been built at a cost of Rs. 300 crore (Rupees 3 billion). Sri Sakthi Amma and Sri Narayani Peedam are involved in numerous philanthropic activities but what has made the Hindu Godman popular is the construction of golden temple, which many are indirectly suggesting is an extravaganza in a country where millio...

The relationship between King Bali and Shukracharya offers several important lessons, drawn from the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology. King Bali, a generous and devout king, and Shukracharya, his wise and astute advisor, provide a narrative full of ethical, spiritual, and practical insights. Loyalty and Devotion to Guru: King Bali's unwavering loyalty to Shukracharya demonstrates the importance of respecting and adhering to the guidance of one's guru (teacher or mentor). This emphasizes the value of mentorship and the wisdom that comes from experienced advisors. Wisdom and Strategic Thinking: Shukracharya’s advice often reflects deep wisdom and strategic thinking. His guidance to King Bali on various matters showcases the importance of foresight and planning in leadership. Balance Between Dharma (Duty) and Power: The narratives often explore the balance between righteous conduct (dharma) and the quest for power. King Bali's interactions with Shukracharya highlig...

Avani Avittam or Avittom is highly auspicious and is of great significance to Yajurvedi Brahmins. On the same day, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated in North India . In 2025, Avani Avittam is on August 9. The main ritual on the day is ‘Upakarma,’ which is also referred as Shravani. It is believed that Lord Hayagriva, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, brought back the Vedas, which was stolen by demons, to Lord Brahma. Avani is the Tamil month and Avittam is one of the 27 nakshatras or stars. Chingam is the equivalent Malayalam month. Avani Avittam is of great significance in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and other southern states. On the Avani Avittam day, Brahmins after a holy dip and change the sacred thread and wear a new holy thread. This ritual is known as Upakarma, which means beginning. The sacred thread is referred as ‘Poonool,’ ‘Yajnopavita’ or ‘Janeyu.’ The ritual also symbolizes the permission to study the Vedas. Usually the function is conducted by communities and large ...

In the Harivamsha of the Mahabharata, the story of Vamana and his three steps holds profound symbolic meaning. Here’s an expanded explanation of the symbolism in the three steps of Vamana: The Story Context Vamana, the dwarf avatar of Vishnu, approaches King Bali, who has gained immense power and dominion over the three worlds through his devotion and rigorous penance. Vamana requests as much land as he can cover in three steps. Bali, confident in his generosity, grants the request. Vamana then grows to cosmic proportions, covering the earth, the heavens, and the netherworld in his three steps, thus reclaiming the universe for the gods. Symbolism of the Three Steps The Rising Sun (First Step): Symbolic Meaning: The first step represents the rising sun, symbolizing the dawn of creation, new beginnings, and the awakening of consciousness. It signifies the initial phase of life, the starting point of all endeavors, and the promise of potential and growth. Cosmic Interpretation...

A Hare Krishna Devotee wrote a long comment to the article on the Canadian Hare Krishna monk Swami Bhaktimarga who is undertaking a cross-country walk. The commenter is an American Hare Krishna devotee and he mentions about a Vaishnava devotee he met during his stay in India . While I lived in India 1977-86 I met a Vaishnava devote who at age 80 left home to see if Lord Krishna would take of him as he does all the birds and bees. He was 88 years old when I met him and he had such clear and glossy eyes which were just like Srila Prabhupad’s. I foolishly gave him only a few rupees as I was strictly told by the authorities at that time never to give a farthing away to any body, but I gave him some anyway. He was so usually clean. His dhoti was spotlessly clean, like a women’s even gown and yet he told me that he often slept a train stations if he didn’t find any place else like a temple, where he usually stayed for not more than three days. He was a beautiful person and...

This year numerous organizations, people and government are laying special emphasis on eco-friendly Ganesh idols. Shri Satguru Aniruddha Upasana Trust (SSAUT), headed by Dr Aniruddha Joshi (popularly known as Bapu), has been creating environment friendly Ganesha idols from paper pulp during the last couple of years. This year the Trust has received over a thousand orders from Mumbai itself.  The Ganesh idols of Sadguru Aniruddha Upasana Trust use papier mache and vegetable paints. Since these idols are made from cheap and natural materials, the cost of a finished 12 feet paper pulp Ganesh idols is less than 1500 rupees. The price of small idols range from Rupees 125 to 600. The workshop of Sadguru Aniruddha Upasana Trust (SSAUT) which is involved in making the idols is in Bandra. The growing number of people opting for eco-friendly Ganesh idols is a clear indication of the success of awareness campaign conducted by individuals and organizations. The BMC has already ...

Hindu religion is replete with stories that emphasize the power and virtue of sacrifice. Here are a few notable examples: 1. King Shibi King Shibi was known for his extreme generosity and willingness to sacrifice anything to protect those who sought his help. One day, Agni (the god of fire) and Indra (the king of gods) decided to test Shibi's commitment to righteousness. Agni transformed into a dove and Indra into a hawk. The dove, chased by the hawk, sought refuge in Shibi's lap. The hawk demanded the dove, claiming it was his food. To honor both his duty as a protector and his respect for the hawk's right, Shibi offered his own flesh as a substitute. The gods were pleased and revealed their true forms, blessing Shibi for his unparalleled sacrifice and righteousness. 2. Harishchandra King Harishchandra is celebrated for his steadfast commitment to truth (Satya). He was tested by the sage Vishwamitra and ended up losing his kingdom, wealth, and family. Despite these hardshi...

At present there is no full-fledged Hindu Temple in Ireland but the growing number of Hindus in the country is looking out for a proper place to establish a temple. Now they have zeroed in on a factory unit Letterkenny in Donegal County , which they hope to convert into a Hindu Temple . The Indian community is negotiating with the council and they expect to have a temple by December 2007. Plans are under way to establish a temple in Letterkenny, Co Donegal, to cater for over 300 families living in the town. The new temple is also expected to boost the local economy by bringing thousands of Hindus from around the country to Donegal.  Indian-born Naidu Yttra, who is living in Letterkenny for three years, said they had already pinpointed the factory unit as a potential location and he hopes the new temple will be ready as early as December.  ‘We do not have any place to go and worship around here and if we want to, we have to go to Belfast or Birmin...

In the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata, the story of Prabhavati and the demon Bala is a poignant tale that intertwines themes of love, loss, and transformation. This tale is a reflection of the deep spiritual and symbolic significance found within the Mahabharata's vast narrative. The Demon Bala and His Demise Bala was a powerful demon whose strength and prowess made him a formidable adversary to the gods. His actions and defiance eventually led to a confrontation with Indra, the king of the Devas (gods). Indra, who is often depicted as the god of rain and thunderstorms and the leader of the Devas, took it upon himself to subdue Bala. In a fierce battle, Indra managed to kill Bala, thus ridding the heavens and the earth of a significant threat. Prabhavati's Grief Prabhavati, the devoted wife of Bala, was overcome with grief upon learning of her husband's death. Her sorrow was immeasurable, and she sought a way to reunite with her beloved. In her desperation, she tur...

The nerve center of Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Maharashtra is Pune, from where Bal Gangadhar Tilak started large scale public Ganesh festival in 1893. Pune region had the tradition of making ‘shaadu’ Ganesh idols. Shaadu Ganesh idols are natural clay idols and were painted with natural colors. People used to immerse these idols in their private tanks, wells and ponds. In recent years, Shaadu Ganesh idols had to give way to glossy chemical painted Plaster of Paris Ganesh idols, which are notorious water polluters. Now, there is an attempt from several quarters in Pune to bring back natural clay idols. eCoexist, a social enterprise in Pune, has prepared completely natural Ganesh idols and is available in select stores in the city. The raw grey idols are finished using a variety of natural clay such as multani mitti, geroo and natural dyes such as turmeric and beetroot. The idols have been made by the famous sculptors of Pen in Raigad District. According to eCoe...

In the ancient lore of Indian mythology, the story of the battle between the demon Bala and Indra, the king of the gods, is a captivating tale of cunning, valor, and the power of boons. The Mighty Demon Bala Bala was a formidable asura (demon) known for his immense strength and valor. His prowess in battle was unmatched, and he harbored a deep-seated enmity towards the devas (gods), particularly Indra, the king of the heavens. Bala's power and influence grew to such an extent that he became a significant threat to the celestial order maintained by the gods. The Battle Between Bala and Indra In a fierce and climactic battle, Bala and Indra clashed. Despite Indra’s formidable abilities and the might of his divine weapon, the thunderbolt Vajra, Bala proved to be a formidable adversary. The battle raged on with great ferocity, and in a surprising turn of events, Bala managed to defeat Indra. The king of the gods found himself humiliated and his status threatened by the triumph ...

Hindu couples adopting a child in India have to follow the Hindu Adoption Act (HAA) of 1958. The Act is applicable to all Hindu sects, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs. This Act does not wholly recognize the adoptions by Muslims, Christians, Muslims, Parsis and Jews. The personal law boards of Islam, Christianity, Zoroastrianism and Judaism primarily takes care of the adoption in these communities. The Juvenile Justice Act (JJA) of 2004 looks into adoption irrespective of religion. Some of the main points in the Hindu Adoption Act (HAA) of 1958 Any male Hindu who is of sound mind and is not a minor has the capacity to take a son or a daughter in adoption. Provided that, if he has a wife living, he shall not adopt except with the consent of his wife unless the wife has completely and finally renounced the world or has ceased to be a Hindu or has been declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be of unsound mind. Any female Hindu who is sound mind, who is not a min...

The relationship between Krishna and Radha, central to Hindu mythology and particularly the Bhakti movement, offers numerous lessons that can be applied to various aspects of life. Here are some key lessons: 1. Unconditional Love Devotion Beyond Conditions: Radha's love for Krishna was unconditional. Despite societal norms and personal sacrifices, her devotion never wavered. This teaches the importance of loving selflessly without expecting anything in return. 2. Spiritual Union Transcending the Physical: Their relationship symbolizes a deeper spiritual connection beyond physical attraction. This suggests that true relationships are based on the union of souls rather than mere physical presence. 3. Sacrifice and Patience Enduring Hardships: Both Krishna and Radha endured separation and numerous hardships. Their patience and willingness to sacrifice for the sake of love highlight the importance of resilience and endurance in relationships. 4. Pure Devotion Bhakti as ...

The Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Hindu epic Mahabharata, offers profound insights into various aspects of life, including work and daily responsibilities. Here's how you can draw inspiration for daily work from its teachings: 1. Understand Your Dharma (Duty) Concept: Dharma refers to one's duty or responsibility in life. Application: Identify your roles and responsibilities in both personal and professional life. Focus on fulfilling these duties with sincerity and dedication, regardless of the outcome. 2. Practice Nishkama Karma (Selfless Action) Concept: Performing one's duty without attachment to the results. Application: Work diligently and put in your best effort without being overly concerned about the results. This helps in reducing stress and anxiety related to outcomes and fosters a sense of peace. 3. Maintain Equanimity (Samattva) Concept: Staying balanced and calm in success and failure. Application: Treat both...

The phrase "In Every Act Kindle The Light Of Love" embodies the profound wisdom imparted by Hindu saints. It emphasizes living a life of love and compassion in every action and interaction. Here's an expanded exploration of this teaching, drawing on the wisdom of various Hindu saints: The Essence of Love in Hindu Philosophy Love as a Divine Principle: Hindu philosophy often views love (prema) as a divine principle. Saints and sages like Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda have stressed that the ultimate goal of human life is to realize divine love. According to the Bhagavad Gita, the path of devotion (bhakti) is one of the primary means to attain union with the Divine. Ahimsa and Compassion: Mahatma Gandhi, inspired by the teachings of saints like Swami Vivekananda and the Bhagavad Gita, emphasized ahimsa (non-violence) and compassion. In his view, true love manifests as non-violence and compassion towards all beings, reflecting the interconnectedness of all life. S...

The new BAPS Swaminarayan Temple at Lilburn in Atlanta , United States , is one of the largest traditional Hindu Vedic stone temples outside India . The Swaminarayan temple is located at the intersection of Rockbridge Road and Lawrenceville Highway in Lilburn. The city of Lilburn is part of Atlanta metropolitan area and is in Gwinnett County , Georgia . The opening ceremony of the Swaminarayan Mandir in Atlanta was on August 26, 2007 . The Mandir is located on 30 acres of land and the estimated cost is $19 million. The temple will serve around 1000 devotees in the Atlanta Metropolitan area and around 7000 devotees in the region during festivals. An amazing fact is that no steel or metals have been used in the construction. The Swaminarayan Mandir houses the idols of Shri Akshar Purushottam Maharaj, Shri Ghanshyam Maharaj, Shri Harikrishna Maharaj and Shri Radha-Krishna Dev, Brahma Swarup Bhagatji Maharaj, Brahma Swarup Shastriji Maharaj, Brahma Swarup Yogiji...

In the vast and intricate tapestry of human existence, there is a singular thread that runs through the spiritual essence of humanity: the longing to connect with the divine. This profound yearning is eloquently captured in the ancient Hindu wisdom which asserts that the deepest desire of the human heart is to be with God. This concept is not merely a philosophical proposition but a central tenet of Hindu spirituality that shapes its practices, narratives, and the very fabric of its cultural ethos. The Nature of the Longing In Hindu thought, the soul, or Atman, is considered to be a spark of the divine, inherently linked to the ultimate reality, Brahman. This relationship is fundamental to understanding the human condition and its spiritual aspirations. The Atman is seen as inherently pure, eternal, and divine, but through the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara), it becomes entangled in the material world, leading to a sense of separation and longing. This separation is perceive...