Who is that energy, that power? What is the source of that? Who am I? What is my source? I am that energy. I am that power which is my source. So when I go to search for the source of this ‘I,’ I reach that self-illumination. Then this power that is existing in this body, residing in this body, is also arising from that self-illumination itself. And it has all the qualities and nature of That itself. So when I know this, I start evolving. This ‘I’ starts evolving to become That itself. That is its nature. Total expansion is its nature. Ramachandra Ajja (Source: From an interview to Andrew Cohen in 'What is Enlightenment Magazine') (Ramchandra Bhat Nettar, also known as ‘Puttur Ajja’ was a preacher of Advaita philosophy.) Explanation: It sounds like the passage is delving into deep philosophical and spiritual concepts about the nature of the self and its connection to a higher source or power. In many spiritual traditions, there is a belief in an underlying energ...

The concept that "Ignorance makes us say life has no meaning" is a profound idea explored by many Hindu saints and sages. It delves into the understanding that the perception of life’s meaninglessness is often rooted in a lack of true knowledge and awareness. This perspective can be unpacked by examining the teachings of several prominent Hindu saints and the philosophical underpinnings of Hinduism. The Nature of Ignorance in Hindu Philosophy In Hindu philosophy, ignorance (Avidya) is considered one of the fundamental causes of human suffering and discontent. Avidya is not merely a lack of information but a deeper, more existential misunderstanding of the true nature of reality and the self. This ignorance leads individuals to identify themselves with the transient, physical world and their ego, rather than with their true, eternal self (Atman). Teachings of Hindu Saints 1. Adi Shankaracharya Adi Shankaracharya, an 8th-century philosopher and theologian, emphasized ...

Demon Makaraksha, a formidable and fierce warrior, was the son of the demon Khara and the nephew of the mighty Ravana, the king of Lanka. His lineage was steeped in the traditions of warfare and valor, a legacy that he sought to uphold throughout his life. Khara, Makaraksha's father, was a powerful demon who ruled over the region of Janasthana, located in the Dandakaranya forest. Khara was a brother of Ravana and one of his trusted lieutenants. Khara's reign in Janasthana was marked by terror and tyranny, and he was known for his ruthless nature and invincibility in battle. However, his life took a drastic turn when he encountered Rama, the prince of Ayodhya, who was in exile in the Dandakaranya forest along with his wife, Sita, and his brother, Lakshmana. The enmity between Khara and Rama began when Surpanakha, Khara’s sister, tried to seduce Rama and was humiliated and disfigured by Lakshmana. Enraged by the insult and her deformation, Surpanakha sought the help of her br...

The BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Milpitas , California , houses 14 idols of various Hindu deities, and a golden statue of Lord Swaminarayan. All the idols were hand-made in Rajasthan , India . The Mandir is located at 25 Corning Ave , Milpitas , CA. Murthi Pratishtha or installation of the idols in the temple were carried out on September 8, 2007 . The Address, Telephone number and Location of San Jose Swaminarayan Mandir on Google maps BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir 25 Corning Ave , Milpitas , CA 95035 . USA Tel: (1-408) 262 0707 Fax: (1-408) 262 1022

It is said that Ramakrishna Paramahamsa talked to Mother Goddess Kali just like we talk to our friends or parents. Here is a look at how Sri Ramakrishna experienced Mother Goddess. When I jumped up like a madman…, suddenly the blessed Mother revealed herself. The buildings with their different parts, the temple, and everything vanished from my sight, leaving no trace whatsoever, and in their stead I saw a limitless, infinite, effulgent Ocean of Consciousness . As far as the eye could see, the shining billows were madly rushing at me from all sides with a terrific noise, to swallow me up. I was caught in the rush and collapsed, unconscious… within me there was a steady flow of undiluted bliss, altogether new, and I felt the presence of the Divine Mother. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa (Source: Ramakrishna Kathamrita translated by Swami Nikhilananda as The Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna.) An explanation of the above passage This passage describes an intense mystical experience of Ramakrishn...

The Ganesha figurine from the Metropolitan Museum of Art Store or The Met Store is a reproduction of the Thai original ‘Seated Ganesha’ statue from the 15th century. The Met Store creates reproductions of original sculptures which are part of Museum’s collection. The limited edition (400 pieces) Thai bonded bronze idol is hand patinated (the chemical process by which a patina forms) and costs $300. The Ganesha idol is seated in a cross-legged yogic posture on a raised pedestal with a decorated molding. The statue will be available in India at the The Metropolitan Museum of Art Store in New Delhi . The price of this Met Store Ganesha is comparatively less when considering the costly Lladro ($900) and Lenox ($2000) Ganesha idols.

In Hindu mythology, demons (asuras) are often depicted as forces of chaos and disorder, and some are specifically associated with causing diseases. Here are a few stories involving such demons: 1. Jvara Asura Jvara Asura is a demon associated with fever and disease. According to the mythology, Jvara Asura is a manifestation of fever and is often depicted with three heads, symbolizing three types of fevers—high, medium, and low. He is said to have been created by Shiva when a powerful demon named Andhaka tried to abduct Parvati. To defeat Andhaka, Shiva emitted intense heat, which eventually took the form of Jvara Asura. Key Elements: Jvara Asura represents various fevers and illnesses. Defeated by Lord Shiva, showcasing divine intervention to restore health. 2. Shitala Mata and Her Demons Shitala Mata is a goddess worshipped in many parts of India, believed to cure poxes and other skin diseases. She is often accompanied by a donkey and is depicted carrying a broom and a p...

Bhagavan Sri Rama was born on the noon of January 10 in the year 5114 BC. In Hindu calendar, it was the ninth day of Shukla Paksha in Chaitra month. Stunned! Well, this exact date of the birthday of Lord Rama is found in the book ‘Dating the Era of Lord Ram’ by Shri Pushkar Bhatnagar. The exact date was obtained by entering the planetary configuration at the time of the birth of Lord Ram as mentioned in the Valmiki Ramayana in Planetarium Software. Interestingly, for thousands of years Hindus have been celebrating Ram Navmi, the birthday of Lord Ram, exactly on the same time and date. In the original Sanskrit Ramayana written by Sage Valmiki, while mentioning about the birth of Lord Ram, Valmiki had mentioned the astronomical details of the precise moment. Valmiki himself was present in the palace of Dasaratha and he mentions it thus in Bala Kanda of Ramayana. On completion of the ritual six seasons have passed by and then in the twelfth month, on the ninth day of chait...

The tale of Vali, the mighty monkey king, and his inability to enter the Rishyamukha Mountain is a captivating narrative from Indian mythology, steeped in themes of power, pride, and retribution. This story is intricately linked to a curse placed upon Vali, rendering the mountain a forbidden territory for him. Vali and the Demon Dundubhi Vali, renowned for his strength and bravery, was once challenged by a demon named Dundubhi. The demon, eager to test his prowess against the mighty Vali, transformed into a formidable buffalo and initiated an attack. Vali, undeterred by the demon's ferocity, engaged in a fierce battle. He uprooted trees and hurled rocks, but Dundubhi, in his buffalo form, remained unscathed and charged at Vali with renewed vigor. Vali, demonstrating his unparalleled strength, seized the buffalo by its horns, lifted it effortlessly, and began to spin it in the air as if it were a mere toy. With a final, powerful swing, Vali released the buffalo, sending it cra...

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi’s remarks on Lord Ram and Ram Vilas Vedanti announcing bounty on Karunanidhi's head has given an ugly and violent turn to the Ram Sethu Controversy . Instead of condemning Karunanidhi and Vedanti, mainstream political parties in India and regional political parties who have representatives in the Cabinet and Parliament have remained silent on the issue. This once again clearly demonstrates the pseudo secularist attitude of Indian Political Parties. When the Central government submitted an affidavit stating there was No Lord Ram , some of the partners in the UPA coalition like Lalu Prasad Yadav came out against the affidavit and the government immediately withdrew it. As expected, the Communist Parties (CPI-M and CPI and numerous other splinter communist groups) – always in the forefront on demanding action against Hindu groups for their fundamentalist actions – supported the affidavit. Unnecessary comments by Karunanidhi like ‘No L...

Sita sat in the Ashoka vatika, grove, beneath a tree, weeping for Rama. Despite her despair and the relentless pleas of her captors, she refused to touch any food or drink offered to her, resolute in her devotion and longing for her husband. In the celestial realm, Brahma, the creator, observed Sita's plight with great concern. The sight of her suffering and her potential demise due to starvation deeply disturbed him. Such a turn of events could complicate the divine plan that was unfolding. To prevent this, Brahma summoned Indra, the king of the gods, and handed him a bowl filled with divine kheer (a sweet, rice pudding). "Take this to Sita," Brahma instructed. "It will sustain her and ensure she survives this ordeal." Indra descended swiftly to the earthly plane and approached the sorrowful Sita. "Noble Sita," he said gently, "when Rama and Lakshmana went to catch a golden deer for you, the demon king Ravana seized that opportunity to brin...

Offering mango fruit to Hindu gods and goddesses holds significant symbolism in Hindu rituals and traditions. Here are some key aspects: Symbolism of Mango in Hindu Worship Symbol of Prosperity and Fertility:  Mangoes are often considered symbols of prosperity, fertility, and abundance. Their offering is seen as a prayer for wealth and progeny. Purity and Sweetness: The sweetness of the mango is a metaphor for the sweetness of devotion and the purity of heart with which the offering is made. It signifies the devotee’s sincere love and reverence towards the deity. Fulfillment of Wishes: Mangoes are believed to have the power to fulfill wishes and desires. Offering a mango to a deity is seen as an act of seeking their blessings for the fulfillment of specific wishes. Auspiciousness:  Mangoes are considered highly auspicious in Hindu culture. The mango tree itself is often associated with divine beings and is mentioned in various religious texts and mythologies. Sym...

The relationship between Parashuram (also known as Parashurama) and his father, Sage Jamadagni, in Hindu mythology offers several profound lessons. Their story is rich with themes of duty, obedience, righteousness, and the consequences of anger. Here are some key lessons derived from their relationship: Duty and Obedience: Parashuram's Obedience: Parashuram is renowned for his unwavering obedience to his father. The most famous example is when Sage Jamadagni, angered by his wife Renuka, commanded Parashuram to behead her. Parashuram obeyed without hesitation, demonstrating his absolute commitment to his father's authority. Understanding Commands: Parashuram's obedience teaches the importance of respecting and fulfilling one's duties towards parents and elders. However, it also raises questions about the moral implications of following orders blindly. Repentance and Restoration: Renuka's Revival: After Parashuram fulfilled his father's command, Jamada...

An interesting article in The Economic Times discusses about using Lord Vishnu’s symbols Shankh (conch-shell), Chakra (discus), Gada (maze) and Padma (lotus) as management tools. Shankh was used by warriors to primarily communicate one’s resolve and intention. The Shankh thus reiterates that a leader should be an effective communicator – your team must know who you are, what your capabilities are, what your vision is and what you expect them to do, and why and how this will help in achieving your final objective. According to the author, the chakra can be viewed as a symbol of review; and gada (maze) and padma (lotus) are symbols of punishment and reward. The mace is like a teacher’s ruler, to punish those who do not do what they are supposed to do. The lotus rich with nectar and pollen that attracts bees and butterfly is for those who do what they are supposed to do and more. The use of ‘Shankh’ symbol as a management tool is interesting but the other three sounds far f...

Madhvacharya and Ramanujacharya are two prominent philosophers in the Vedanta tradition of Hinduism, each establishing influential schools of thought with distinct doctrines. Here's a detailed comparison of their teachings: Philosophical Foundations Madhvacharya: School: Dvaita (Dualism) Core Belief: Madhvacharya's philosophy is based on the principle of dualism. He asserts a strict distinction between God (Brahman) and individual souls (jivas). According to him, the jivas are distinct and different from Brahman, and there is an eternal difference between the two. Brahman: Vishnu is the supreme Brahman, distinct and separate from all creation. Jivas: Souls are inherently different from each other and from God. They are of different categories: some are destined for liberation, some for eternal rebirth, and others for eternal damnation. Ramanujacharya: School: Vishishtadvaita (Qualified Non-dualism) Core Belief: Ramanujacharya's philosophy is based on qua...

Ever wondered which is the tallest and the biggest Ganesh Statue? The 66-feet Chinmaya Ganadhish idol in Kolhapur is at present considered to be the tallest Ganesha idol in the world. The idol sits on 24-feet Dhyana Nilayam (raised platform). Thus the statue is 90 feet from the ground level. This tall Ganapati is a permanent statue unlike the idols created during Ganesh Chaturthi. Update - The tallest Ganesha Statue in the world in mow in Thailand. The Khairatabad Ganesha, usually more than 40 feet, was considered to be the world’s tallest Ganesh Chaturthi idol but it an idol in Vijayawada for Ganesh Chaturthi 2009 at 58 feet is now the tallest Vinayaka Chaturthi idol. ( Click on the image for a larger view) Sculptured as mentioned in the Shastras (scriptures), the Ganesh idol is made up of concrete (cement) and weighs around 800 metric tonnes. The idol was completed in 18 months and nearly 50 skilled workers were involved in the construction along with scores of Chinmaya volun...

The relationship between Sita and Lakshmana in the Ramayana is one of deep respect, devotion, and familial duty. This relationship offers numerous lessons that are applicable to various aspects of life. Here are some of the key lessons: 1. Respect and Boundaries Lesson: Respecting personal and social boundaries is crucial in maintaining healthy relationships. Explanation: Despite his deep respect and devotion towards Sita, Lakshmana maintains a respectful distance. He follows the Lakshmana Rekha, a boundary he draws to protect Sita, symbolizing the importance of respecting personal space and boundaries in relationships. 2. Loyalty and Devotion Lesson: Loyalty and unwavering support are foundational to strong relationships. Explanation: Lakshmana's loyalty to Rama and Sita is unwavering. He follows them into exile, showcasing his dedication and commitment to his brother and sister-in-law. This teaches the value of loyalty and devotion in familial relationships. 3. Sacr...

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Karunanidhi’s statements like "Who is this Ram? From which engineering college he graduated?" should be ignored. There is no point in indulging in violence over the irresponsible comments of a Chief Minister. He is cleverly trying to divide the nation over the Ram Sethu issue . Hindus should not fall for it. His aim is to create a divide between the North and South. No damage can be done to Lord Ram by such statements. If any damage is taking place, it is in the hearts of the believers. Learn more about Hinduism or Santana Dharma and we will realize that the one who insults and the one feeling insulted all are the same. Brahman is there in Karunanidhi, you, me and in all animate and inanimate. This is the teaching of Hinduism and this is why it is referred as most intellectually-sophisticated religions, for those who want to describe it as a religion. For many it is not a religion but a way of life. All the people creating trouble and ...

The Ramayana is an ancient Indian epic that features a rich tapestry of characters, including many notable women. Here are ten prominent female characters from the Ramayana: Sita: The wife of Lord Rama and the central female character of the Ramayana. She is known for her unwavering devotion, purity, and strength. She is abducted by the demon king Ravana, leading to the epic's central conflict. Kaikeyi: One of King Dasharatha's three queens and the mother of Bharata. She plays a crucial role in the narrative by demanding that her son Bharata be crowned king and that Rama be exiled, based on the boons granted to her by Dasharatha. Kausalya: The eldest queen of King Dasharatha and the mother of Rama. She is a symbol of maternal love and virtue. Sumitra: The second queen of King Dasharatha and the mother of Lakshmana and Shatrughna. She is known for her wisdom and supportive nature. Mandodari: The wife of Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. She is depicted as a wise and v...

Amrit Lalji, a Heathrow Airport worker in Londo , has been dismissed for wearing a nose stud. Amrit wore the tiny piercing as a mark of her Hindu faith but a manager, at caterers Eurest, suddenly found it objectionable as jewelry can harbor bacteria and find its way into the food people eat. She was wearing the stud at work for quite sometime and Eurest hard no problem , until a manager suddenly found ‘bacteria with naked eyes’ – in fact the nose stud worn by Amrit is so small that we can hardly detect it on her photo in BBC news. Last year, Eurest had dismissed a Christian woman for wearing a cross but had to reinstate her after protest from clerics. Amrit had produced a letter from her local Hindu community to support her case. The problem here is not bacteria in food or the nose stud. Some people cannot tolerate or respect other religions and beliefs. Before checking bacteria in food, such people should change their mindset. The nose stud can be cleaned but s...

Hinduism, one of the world's oldest religions, has a rich tapestry of stories that emphasize non-violence (ahimsa) and compassion. Here are a few notable examples: 1. The Life of Mahavira While Mahavira is primarily associated with Jainism, his life and teachings are closely related to Hindu culture. Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, epitomized non-violence. He advocated for the principle of ahimsa in its purest form, extending it to all living beings. His teachings emphasized that one should not harm any living creature, even in thought. 2. King Ashoka’s Transformation Although King Ashoka's story is more prominently featured in Buddhist history, it also finds resonance in Hindu teachings. Ashoka, after the bloody Kalinga War, embraced Buddhism and adopted ahimsa as a guiding principle. He spread the message of non-violence and compassion throughout his empire, inscribing his edicts on pillars and rocks for all to read. 3. The Ramayana: Lord Rama and Ahimsa ...

While fighting against the Caste System in Hinduism, many opt for the easiest option, condemn and reject all the teachings of Sanatana Dharma, and take refuge in some other religion. But there have been several champion social reformers who realized that the caste system is a creation of selfish-minded people and is not part of core teachings of Sanatana Dharma. One such social reformer was Sri Narayana Guru (1854-1928), who brought about revolutionary change in Kerala by organizing the lower caste people. His motto was one caste, one religion, one god – echoing the Brahman concept in Hinduism. When some unenlightened Brahmins objected to Sri Narayana Guru worshipping a Shiva lingam, he immediately retorted I am not worshipping a Brahmin Shiva but an Ezhava Shiva. He represented mainly the Ezhava caste in Kerala. He cleaned the dirt accumulated on the universal messages in Sanatana Dharma and wrote hymns and built new temples. National Book Trust has brought out the complete ...

The wisdom "He Who Has Subdued Anger Is The True Emperor," provided to Alexander the Great by an unknown Avadhuta, carries profound significance rooted in the spiritual teachings of Hinduism. An Avadhuta, in Hindu tradition, is a mystic who has transcended worldly attachments and conventional social norms to realize higher spiritual truths. The wisdom shared with Alexander the Great encapsulates a core principle of many spiritual traditions: the mastery over one's own emotions, particularly anger, is a mark of true leadership and inner strength. The statement suggests that real power and authority do not stem from conquest or dominion over others, but rather from the ability to control oneself. Anger, often seen as a destructive emotion, can cloud judgment, lead to irrational decisions, and ultimately result in chaos and suffering. By subduing anger, one demonstrates self-control, clarity, and the ability to act with wisdom and compassion. In the context of Alexande...

Attachment to name and fame is often seen as a trap with no exit in Hindu wisdom. This perspective is deeply rooted in the philosophical teachings of Hinduism, which emphasize the transient nature of worldly success and the importance of seeking higher, spiritual goals. 1. Transient Nature of Name and Fame In Hindu philosophy, the pursuit of name and fame is considered to be rooted in the ego and the material world, which are both transient and impermanent. The Bhagavad Gita, one of the most revered texts in Hinduism, teaches that all material accomplishments are temporary and ultimately lead to dissatisfaction. This idea is encapsulated in the concept of "Maya," or illusion, which suggests that the worldly achievements we chase are illusory and distract us from true, lasting happiness. 2. The Ego and Suffering Attachment to name and fame is seen as a manifestation of the ego, or "Ahamkara." The ego craves validation and recognition, which can lead to a neve...

The Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Sarvajanik Ganpati in Pune is one of the oldest Sarvajanik Ganpati Mandal in the country. Dagdusheth Halwai Ganesh is a unique idol and attracts maximum visitors in Pune during the 10-day festival. The Dagdusheth Halwai style Ganesha is of great demand in Pune and idols makers often find it difficult to meet the needs of devotees. Dagdusheth Halwai Ganesha has a history of more than hundred years and is participating in the Ganeshotsav from 1893 – the year Lokmanya Balgangadhar Tilak introduced the massive public celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi. The Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Sarvajanik Ganpati trust helps in setting up and guiding Ganesh mandals in several places in Maharashtra . The mandals associated with Dagdusheth Ganesh conduct ‘arati’ at the same time across Maharashtra .

Hindu philosophy is rich with teachings that delve into the essence of human virtues, and among them, simplicity and humility stand out prominently. The intertwining of these qualities is emphasized in various texts and practices, revealing that true simplicity cannot be achieved without genuine humility. This teaching is woven through the fabric of Hindu thought, from the ancient scriptures to the practices of modern-day adherents. 1. Understanding Simplicity in Hinduism In Hinduism, simplicity, or 'saralata,' goes beyond minimalism or ascetic living. It is a state of being where one's actions, thoughts, and lifestyle are uncomplicated and straightforward. This simplicity is a reflection of inner peace and contentment, a life lived in harmony with nature and spiritual principles. It is about reducing distractions and focusing on what truly matters, aligning one's life with the Dharma (righteous path). 2. The Role of Humility Humility, known as 'vinaya' ...

The Tirupati Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is the most visited place of worship in the world reports NDTV. The report compares Tirupati with Vatican . The average number of visitors in a year to Tirupati Balaji Temple is 19 million. According a report in New York Times , Vatican recorded just 4.2 million visitors in 2006. The Brahmotsavam which is beginning on September 15 is expected attract a million visitors to Tirupati. On a normal day Tirupati Balaji Temple receives 50,000 to 100,000 visitors and during weekends and public holidays it is more than 100,000. Tirupati is also one of the richest temples in the world with an estimated annual income of 7.5 billion rupees. Perhaps, Tirupati is the richest place of worship in the world. Each day, the hundi collection in Tirupati is breaking existing records. On September 10, the hundi collection was more than 20 million rupees. Another major source income to the temple is from the hair offered by devotees. The ...

The Nageswaraswamy Temple, located in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known here as Nageswara Swamy. The temple has several fascinating stories associated with it: Story of Kumbakonam Nageswaraswamy Temple Adisesha’s Penance: Adisesha, the divine serpent and primary supporter of the earth, once felt the burden of the earth's weight and came to Kuvivanam (a forest region in Kumbakonam) to perform intense penance. Goddess Parvati appeared before Adisesha at this spot and blessed him, granting him the strength to continue his role in supporting the earth. Dakshan and Karkotaka’s Worship: The temple is linked with the mythological serpents Dakshan and Karkotaka, who are believed to have worshipped Lord Shiva here to seek his blessings. Their devotion and prayers led to the manifestation of Shiva as Nageswaraswamy, reinforcing the temple’s association with serpents (nagas). King Nala’s Devotion: Another legend recounts that King Nala, a ruler mentioned in an...

In an affidavit filed in the Supreme Court of India on the Sethusamudram project , the Congress-led UPA government in India has questioned the existence of Lord Ram and has said he is a mere mythical character. The Indian Central Government to the Supreme Court “…contents of the Valmiki Ramayana, the Ramcharitamanas by Tulsidas and other mythological texts… cannot be said to be historical record to incontrovertibly prove the existence of the characters, or the occurrence of the events, depicted therein.” The statement was given by Archeological Survey of India (ASI) on behalf of the Central Government. In simple terms, the statement of the Congress-led UPA government says that Lord Ram and other Hindu gods are not real. Several countries around the world witnessed large-scale riots over a cartoon badly depicting a Prophet. Thanks to the Hindus, who to a large extend has not taken to religious fundamentalism, there was peace in India after such a blasphemous st...

In the epic Ramayana, Lord Ram and his monkey army on a mission to save Sita builds a bridge, Ram Sethu, to cross into Lanka . For thousands of years, Ram Sethu remained a Hindu myth and occasionally there were discussions on its existence, especially during the British period. The British called it the Adam’s bridge . Then one fine morning NASA came up with a picture showing a bridge like structure in Palk Strait . But NASA never claimed it was manmade. But a large section of Hindus believe it was built y Lord Ram and Vanarsena (Monkey army). Presently, ships coming from India ’s west coast have to navigate around Sri Lanka to reach India ’s east coast. From the time of the British, there were discussions to build a canal to link the Palk Bay with the Gulf of Mannar between India and Sri Lanka . This will provide a continuous navigable sea route around the Indian peninsula. The NDA government introduced the Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project, which proposed to li...