Dealing with hopelessness in the modern world is a profound challenge, but Hinduism offers a rich tapestry of wisdom and practices that can help individuals navigate this difficult emotional terrain. Here are several approaches rooted in Hindu philosophy and practice that can offer solace and guidance: 1. Understanding the Concept of Dharma Dharma refers to the moral and ethical duties and responsibilities that each individual has. By focusing on fulfilling one’s dharma, individuals can find purpose and direction, which can combat feelings of hopelessness. Engaging in righteous actions and contributing positively to society can provide a sense of fulfillment and meaning. 2. The Practice of Yoga and Meditation Yoga and meditation are essential practices in Hinduism that help calm the mind, reduce stress, and foster a sense of inner peace. Regular practice can help individuals gain a better perspective on life’s challenges and cultivate resilience against hopelessness. Asanas (Postures)

Living in a world that seems filled with negativity can be challenging, but the Hindu religion offers profound wisdom and practices that can help individuals navigate such circumstances with resilience and peace. Here are some key teachings and practices from Hinduism that can guide you: 1. Understanding the Nature of the World (Maya and Samsara) Hindu philosophy teaches that the world (Maya) is an illusion, and much of the negativity we perceive is transient and not the ultimate reality. Life is seen as a cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (Samsara), filled with both joys and sorrows. Recognizing the temporary nature of life's difficulties can help in maintaining a sense of detachment and equanimity. 2. Karma Yoga: The Path of Selfless Action Karma Yoga encourages individuals to perform their duties selflessly without attachment to the results. By focusing on righteous actions (Dharma) and serving others, one can transcend personal grievances and contribute positively to the world

Sri Srinivasa Kalyanotsavam is an important ritual or ‘Seva’ held at the Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple . The utsava murti or idol of Lord Balaji is the bridegroom and his consorts Sridevi and Bhoodevi are the brides in the celestial wedding. The rituals followed in the divine marriage ceremony are similar to those observed during Hindu marriages. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the governing body of Tirupati Temple , also conducts the ceremony in important cities and towns in India . Sri Padmavathi - Srinivasa Kalyanotsavam is a daily ritual performed at the Tiruapti Temple . In the Kalyanotsavam, the idols of Lord Malayappaswami (Balaji) and Sridevi and Bhoodevi face each other. A screen is placed in between the bridegroom and brides. The screen is removed during appropriate time in the ritual for the deities to see each other. The wedding ceremony is held amidst recitation of the Vedic mantras and pronouncing the family pedigree of the brides and brid

In the epic of Ramayana, an extraordinary tale unfolds during the battle between Rama and Ravana. Lakshmana, Rama's loyal brother, was gravely injured on the battlefield, struck by an arrow from the powerful demon Indrajit, Ravana’s son. The only way to save Lakshmana was with the Sanjeevani herb, found on the Gandhamadana Mountain. Time was of the essence, as the herb had to be brought back before sunrise to revive Lakshmana. The Search for the Sanjeevani Herb Hanuman, the devoted servant of Rama, was entrusted with the critical task of fetching the herb. His journey to the Gandhamadana Mountain was fraught with challenges. Upon reaching the mountain, Hanuman faced Kalanemi, a demon dispatched by Ravana to thwart his mission. However, Hanuman's strength and devotion proved insurmountable, and he swiftly defeated and killed Kalanemi. The Sun's Early Rise Despite Kalanemi’s defeat, Ravana had another plan. He commanded Surya, the sun god, to rise prematurely. Surya was bound

The novel ‘The Pregnant King’ by Devdutt Pattanaik is based on the less known character King Yuvanashva in the Mahabharat. There are hundreds of characters in the Mahabharata but we only hear about a select few. Some of these lesser known characters were extraordinary individuals and their tales are interesting and equally appealing like the tales of the famous Pandavas and Kauravas. Devdutt Pattanaik in ‘The Pregnant King’ brings to light the journey of Yuvanashva, a childless king, who accidentally drinks a magic potion meant to make his queens pregnant and gives birth to a son. From the Novel – The Pregnant King ‘I am not sure that I am a man,’ said Yuvanashva. ‘I have created life outside me as men do. But I have also created life inside me, as women do. What does that make me? Will a body such as mine fetter or free me?’ The novel uses materials from the Mahabarata and from the folk versions of Mahabharat in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. This unusual novel is

The annual Pandharpur Yatra to the famous Vithoba Temple at Pandharpur in Maharashtra is an unparalleled pilgrimage that breaks the barriers of caste, creed, rich and poor. In 2022, the Pandarpur Yatra Palki of Tukaram Maharaj from Dehu near Pune will start on June 20 and will end on July 10, 2022 at Pandharpur on Ashadhi Ekadasi.  Vithoba Temple is also known as Vitthal Rukmini Temple and is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The most important annual pilgrimage is a 21-day trek known as Pandharpur Ashadhi Ekadasi Wari and culminates on the Ekadasi day in the Marathi month Ashadi. One of the most famous pilgrimages in Maharashtra , Pandharpur Ashadhi Ekadashi Wari has been taking place for more than 700 years. The procession was started in the current form by Sant Tukaram's son Narayan Maharaj in 1685. But it is believed that the first pilgrimage was done by the parents of Saint Dnyaneshwar in the 13th century and Sant Dnyaneshwar during his time popularized it. The

In the Ramayana, Gandhamadana Mountain is a significant and revered location, especially during the episode where Hanuman plays a crucial role in saving Lakshmana's life. The mountain, located in the Himalayas, becomes central to the narrative when Lakshmana, Rama's brother, is grievously wounded by Ravana during the battle in Lanka. Lakshmana's condition is dire, and the Vanara physician Sushena determines that a special herb, Vishalyakarani, is required to heal him. This herb can only be found on Gandhamadana Mountain, and it must be retrieved before daybreak to save Lakshmana’s life. Sushena directs Hanuman to embark on this urgent mission. Gandhamadana Mountain is notable for its nine peaks, each hosting distinct and significant presences: First Peak : The abode of Shiva, the destroyer and transformer among the Trimurti. Second Peak : The dwelling of the Sun, an essential celestial entity worshipped for light and life. Third Peak : Home to the Gandharvas, celestial musi

In the epic Ramayana, after the death of Indrajit, Ravana's son, Ravana himself entered the battlefield with fury and injured Lakshmana severely with a powerful Shakti spear. The Vanara physician Sushena, upon examining Lakshmana, determined that he still had a chance of survival but required immediate and specific medical attention before daybreak. Sushena directed Hanuman to retrieve the Vishalyakarani herb from the Gandhamadana Mountain, describing its precise location: on the sixth peak of the mountain, beside a river where medicinal trees with blue flowers, yellow leaves, red branches, and golden vines grew. This herb was essential to save Lakshmana's life. Hanuman, known for his immense strength and devotion, prepared for the journey. He folded his ears, balanced himself with his tail, and leaped into the sky, growing in size to twenty yojanas (a vast measure of distance) to expedite his travel. Ravana, determined to thwart Hanuman's mission, dispatched the demon Kala

The new Ramayana television serial currently being telecast on NDTV Imagine can be viewed online for free on BIGFlix. The online broadband version of the Ramayan serial is available for viewers in India and around the world. BIGFlix, a part of Reliance ADA group, and NDTV Imagine channel have joined together to provide the free online version. You can also download a high-definition episode of the serial for $ 1.49. The free episodes are a low resolution version. Each episode of the serial is around 22 minutes and the language is Hindi. Each episode on the BIGFlix website comes with an English synopsis. Also there are trailers of each episode intended to help the viewers to choose the episode they would like to watch or download. You will also need to register with BIGflix to view the Ramayana for free. You can find New Ramayana Serial Online for Free here on BIGFlix. OR here NDTV Ramayan. (all these channels and websites have stopped working long back)

The new Mahabharat Serial in Hindi on 9X Channel, titled Kahaani Hammaray Mahabharat Ki, will start on July 7, 2008. The immortal epic Mahabharata is being produced by Ekta Kapoor’s Balaji Telefilms and is already creating news in India for its star cast and special effects. As per the latest news reports, the television series will go on air on July 7, 2008. It will be telecast from Monday to Friday at 9 PM Indian Standard Time. So will Ekta Kapoor’s Kahaani Hamaaray Mahabharat Ki be able to generate the same hype and viewership enjoyed by the famous adaptation of Mahabharata by BR Chopra for Doordarshan. Even though crude and lacked the modern day special effects, the Mahabharata Serial of BR Chopra garnered attention through its dialogues and innocent presentation. The latest Mahabharat from Balaji Telefilms for 9X channel boasts of some of the best talent in the country. The series is being shot on High Definition format and the trailer gives the feel of a high

The Shakti spear was a formidable weapon owned by the demon king Ravana, who ruled the kingdom of Lanka. This potent weapon, known for its lethal precision and unstoppable force, was gifted to Ravana by his father-in-law, Maya, a master of sorcery and illusion. The Shakti spear was feared for its capability to mortally wound or kill any adversary it was launched against. Ravana in the Battlefield After the death of his valiant son Indrajit, Ravana himself decided to enter the battlefield during the epic war of the Ramayana. Consumed by rage and grief, he sought to avenge his son and destroy his enemies. Ravana's primary target was Vibhishana, his own brother, who had defected to Rama’s side and divulged crucial secrets of the demon forces, including those of Indrajit, leading to their downfall. The Attack on Vibhishana As Ravana launched a barrage of powerful weapons at Vibhishana, Lakshmana, Rama’s devoted brother, intervened. Displaying exceptional combat skills, Lakshmana interc

Janam Dhin, Birthday, is celebrated in a unique way in Hinduism. In Hindu religion, the Hindi Tithi or the Nakshatra or Nallu is chosen to celebrate the birthday. The annual birthday celebration is not on a fixed date as in the English Calendar. Hindus give importance to the Tithi and in some regions it is based on the 27 Nakshatras. There is also a debate whether it is right to light candles on a cake and then blow it off on birthdays in Hindu tradition. Feeding the poor is an important part of Hindu birthday celebrations. Visiting the temple on birthday and performing Ganesh Puja is considered highly auspicious. Other important pujas performed on birthday include pujas to Shiva, Rudra Abhishek, Navgraha Puja and pujas to ‘Ishta Devta’ or personal deity. Blessings of parents, especially that of Mother is very important on birthday. Now, if the person believes in astrology, then depending on the position of the grahas etc there will be other pujas that will be needed to be p

The little Indian Girl Lakshmi with four arms and four legs first made news in India when she was worshipped as an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi in her remote village in Bihar . In November 2007, when doctors at the Sparsh Hospital performed a ground breaking survey to remove the conjoined twin, India and the world watched eagerly. National Geographic Channel has now created a documentary on Lakshmi titled ‘Girl with Eight Limbs.’ The documentary narrates little Lakshmi’s journey from being worshipped as a Goddess to her successful operation at Sparsh – her family, doctors and the rare medical procedure to remove her four arms and four Legs never before performed in India. The operation to remove the extra limbs was ground breaking – surgeons at Sparsh were working in six to eight hour shifts, doctors transplanted a kidney from Lakshmi's conjoined twin, separated their spines and repaired her pelvis before finally removing the parasitic torso. National Geograph

Advaita Vedanta and Samkhya are two of the major philosophical systems within Hinduism, each offering distinct perspectives on the nature of reality, the self, and the path to liberation. Here’s a detailed comparison between these two systems: Advaita Vedanta Philosophical Basis : Non-Dualism (Advaita) : Advaita Vedanta, based on the teachings of Adi Shankaracharya, advocates for non-dualism. It posits that the ultimate reality, Brahman, is singular and without a second. Everything else is an illusion (Maya). Scriptural Foundation : The principal texts are the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahma Sutras. Nature of Reality : Brahman : The ultimate, formless, eternal reality which is pure consciousness and bliss. Maya : The illusory power that creates the perception of the material world. Concept of Self : Atman and Brahman : The individual self (Atman) is identical to Brahman. Realizing this unity is the goal of human life. Illusion of Individuality : The sense of individuality and sep

The ‘Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life’ recently released the results of a survey on the religious beliefs and practices and social and political views of various religious traditions, including Hinduism, in the United States . The find indicates that Hindus are the most tolerant and majority believes all religions are true. Majority of people associated with Hindu religion are Democrats and have liberal view on homosexuality and abortion. This is the second part of a nation wide survey, the first part concentrated on the economic, education and other similar aspects and revealed that Hindus in United States are better educated and earned more . The survey titled ‘U.S. Religious Landscape Survey’ is based on interviews with more than 35,000 American adults. Here are some of the key findings from the survey regarding Hindus in United States Belief in God or Universal Spirit Among Hindus 57% believe in god and certain about it 35% believe in God and are on

Samkhya and Nyaya are two significant schools of Hindu philosophy that differ in their approach to metaphysics, epistemology, and the means to achieve liberation. Here’s a detailed comparison between the two: Samkhya Philosophy Metaphysics Dualism : Samkhya is known for its dualistic framework, which posits two eternal, independent realities: Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter). Purusha and Prakriti : Purusha is the passive, unchanging consciousness, while Prakriti is the active, dynamic principle that constitutes the material universe and is composed of three gunas (qualities) – sattva (balance), rajas (activity), and tamas (inertia). Evolution of the Universe : The interaction between Purusha and Prakriti leads to the evolution of the universe. This interaction gives rise to the intellect (buddhi), ego (ahamkara), and mind (manas), followed by the sensory and motor organs, and the gross elements. Epistemology Pramanas (Means of Knowledge) : Samkhya recognizes three valid

As part of its spiritual tour package, Indian Railway is organizing pilgrimage to the world famous Shirdi Sai Baba Temple in Maharashtra from various cities in India . Presently, the India Railway is conducting tours from Vijayawada , Secunderabad ( Hyderabad ), and Bangalore . Some package tours also come along with a visit to the famous Shani Singanpur Shrine and other nearby spiritual and historical places. Vijayawada – Nagarsol- Shiridi – Nagarsol- Vijayawada. - Rs.4,000/- per adult on the comfort option and Rs.2,200/- per person on the Standard option. Secunderabad – Nagarsol - Shridi - Nagarsol – Secunderabad. - Rs.1350/- per person. Secunderabad – Nagarsol- Shiridi - Shani Sinanapur - Shiridi - Nasik - Manmad - Secunderabad. Bangalore City station by Karnataka Express (Train Number 2627) at 19:20 hours daily. Return from Kopargaon at 16:40 hrs, by Tr. 2628 Karnataka Express (Rs.3,100/- per person). The Deluxe version of the same pilgrimage costs Rs.

Chyavana was an ancient and powerful Rishi whose tales are documented in the Vedas, Puranas, and Epics. Known for his deep spiritual practices and formidable asceticism, Chyavana once undertook an extraordinary penance. He decided to immerse himself in the waters at the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers, standing still like a post, for twelve years. Chyavana Caught in the Fishermen’s Net One day, as Chyavana was immersed in his meditation under the water, a group of fishermen cast their nets into the river. To their astonishment, along with the usual catch of fish, they found the immobile Rishi entangled in their net. The fishermen were terrified and confused, unable to extract Chyavana from the net or retrieve their fish. Recognizing the extraordinary nature of the situation, they decided to seek help from King Nahusha. The Dilemma of King Nahusha King Nahusha, a wise and just ruler, was approached by the distressed fishermen. Understanding the gravity of having a great sage l

 The Taittiriya Upanishad is one of the primary Upanishads, a collection of ancient texts that form the philosophical basis of Hinduism. It is part of the Yajurveda and is structured into three sections: the Siksha Valli, the Brahmananda Valli, and the Bhrigu Valli. The Upanishad delves into various aspects of metaphysics, ethics, and esoteric knowledge. The Concept of Creation in the Taittiriya Upanishad 1. The Primordial State The Taittiriya Upanishad begins by describing the state of the universe before creation. It states that in the beginning, there was "Asat," meaning non-being or nothingness. This concept aligns with the idea that the universe was in a state of potentiality, without form or differentiation. 2. Emergence of Being (Sat) From this state of non-being, "Sat," or Being, was created. This marks the transition from potentiality to actuality, from the unmanifested to the manifested. This Being is not just any existence but a profound, absolute existen

The Vedas, ancient texts of Hinduism, contain numerous passages on knowledge, wisdom, and enlightenment. Here are a few quotes from the Vedas that emphasize the importance of knowledge: A person who does not have knowledge cannot be considered truly alive. - Rig Veda 1.25.7 Knowledge is that which liberates. - Atharva Veda 11.5.1 Knowledge is the greatest treasure; it cannot be stolen, nor can it be consumed by fire. - Atharva Veda 10.1.20 Knowledge is the light which illuminates the darkness of ignorance. - Yajur Veda 40.17 The one who has attained true knowledge sees the same divinity in all beings. - Rig Veda 10.191.4 Lead me from unreal to real, from darkness to light, from death to immortality. - Brihadaranyaka Upanishad Those who know, they see; they who see, they know. - Rigveda Knowledge is the eye of desire and can become the pilot of the soul. - Atharvaveda Let noble thoughts come to us from every side. - Rigveda He who knows the Vedas but does not know the Atman, knows noth

Prayers or Mantras are used by spiritual aspirants to achieve god realization, to invoke the blessing of the deity and for meditation. Mantras aid in the conceptualization process and constant recitation of it gives rise to the actual form of the particular deity in the mind of the devotee. All prayers and mantras in Hinduism are the many paths to realize the ONE – Brahman. The continuous recitation of a particular mantra is Japa. A simple prayer dedicated to Lord Ganesh OM Sri Maha Ganapataye Namah Prostrations to the Great Lord Ganesha. A Prayer to Lord Shiva OM Namah Shivaya Prostrations to Lord Shiva Prayer to Lord Vishnu OM Namo Narayanaya Prostrations to Shri Vishnu Prayer to Lord Krishna OM Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya Prayers to the Lord Krishna. ‘Vasudeva’ means he who abides in all things and in whom all things abide. Prayer to Lord Ram OM Sri Ramaya Namah Prostrations to Lord Ram Prayer to

Each sculpture adorning the famed towers of Madurai Meenakshi Temple Tower is to be photographed and digitally stored. The nine towers have thousands of sculptures and the digital pictures will help in restoration works and will be a great asset for future. The digital photograph of each sculpture is being shot in such a way that no minute details are missed – including position, facial expressions, dress, ornaments and other unique features. Such a vast collection of pictures of the tower sculptures will be a great help for future restoration works and for history and architecture studies. Pictures of select sculptures that have been already photographed are on display inside the temple complex. It is quite impossible to have a clear view of all the tower sculptures from ground level. The digital pictures are surely going to be a great help to visitors. Hope, the temple authorities will display some pictures online too.(via)

Invocation Prayer to Lord Venkateswara O Paramapurusha! O Matchless One! I surrender unto you! O true abode of Lakshmi! O one with a lotus navel! O lotus eyed! O Lord with lotus like feet! O Lord of all demigods and sages! O Lord of the herds! O Granter of boons! O four formed one! O one with four arms! O one who wields the conch and discus! O supreme Lord of Venkata hill! O enjoyer of the praises of Anjana! I surrender unto you! Tallapaka Annamacharya This poem is a beautiful invocation to Lord Venkateswara, a form of the Hindu god Vishnu, by the poet Tallapaka Annamacharya. Each line is filled with devotion and reverence, addressing various aspects and attributes of the deity. "O Paramapurusha! O Matchless One!": Here, the poet addresses the Lord as the Supreme Person, unparalleled in His greatness. "I surrender unto you!": This line expresses the poet's complete surrender and devotion to the Lord. "O true abode of Lakshmi!": Lord Venka

The Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, one of the principal Upanishads of Hindu philosophy, delves deeply into the nature of the Self (Atman) and the creation of the universe. In its exploration of creation, it presents a profound and symbolic narrative. The Narrative of Creation The Self as the Original Existence The Brihadaranyaka Upanishad begins with the assertion that in the beginning, there was only the Self (Atman). This Self was in the form of a person (Purusha). This concept highlights the non-dualistic nature of the universe at its inception, where there was no distinction between the creator and the creation. The Self here represents pure consciousness, the ultimate reality, and the source of all existence. The Desire for Companionship The text then describes a critical moment of self-awareness and desire: "He thought, one who is alone has no delight." This thought signifies the emergence of a fundamental principle in creation: the need for duality and relationship. The sol

A new instrumental music album titled 'Ocean of Consciousness' by Jeffrey Fisher explores the subjects of war and spirituality in relation to the Bhagavad Gita. The Music Album crosses a variety of styles from jazz to classical. Fisher equates Arjuna’s initial turmoil at the start of the Bhagavad Gita with that of present day soldiers and other people who are faced with war and other challenges. Jeffrey Fisher is an award winning composer and multi-instrumentalist. The 'Ocean of Consciousness' consists of two discs – ‘The Bhagavad Gita Suite’ and ‘The River’. The music and concept of the album inspired by the Bhagavad Gita is expected to especially appeal to individuals interested in jazz, classical, world and New Age music, ancient Sanskrit texts, the Indian and Hindu communities, scholars, healers, massage therapists, spiritual writers, green activists, peace activists and Lohas converts. Disc One: 'The Bhagavad Gita Suite' consists of following tracks: The Fi

The Vishnu Purana provides a detailed cosmology and cosmogony, explaining the origins and processes of the universe's creation. Here’s an expanded version of the summary you provided, incorporating more context and details: Vishnu Purana on Creation According to the Vishnu Purana, in the beginning, there was a state of absolute non-existence. There was no night or day, no earth or sky, no darkness or light. In this state of primordial void, only the One, Brahma, existed. Alongside Brahma were two primary principles: Puman (Purusha) and Pradhana (Prakriti). These principles are integral to understanding the creation process in the Vishnu Purana. Brahma, Vishnu, and the Principles of Creation: Brahma : The supreme entity, Brahma, is also equated with Vishnu in this context. Brahma is both the creator and the essence of all creation. He encompasses both Purusha (spirit) and Prakriti (matter). Purusha (Puman) : This represents the cosmic spirit or the unmanifested consciousness. It is

The coloring book based on the epic Ramayan is presented by the publication division of the British Library. The images are based on the book 'Ramayana: Love and Valour in India 's Great Epic'. The picture book Ramayana also comes with 18 stickers with which kids can create their own Ramayana scene. Currently British Library is holding a Ramayana Exhibition based on this 17th century illustrated Ramayana. The paintings in 'Ramayana: Love and Valour in India 's Great Epic' can also be viewed online . The fun and coloring book can be brought from the online shop of British Library. It is also available in select book stores. Ramayana Colouring Book with Stickers Published by: British Library Publishing Published: May 2008 Price: £5.99

Samkhya philosophy, one of the six orthodox schools of Indian philosophy, provides a dualistic framework to explain the process of creation. This system postulates that the universe is a result of the interaction between two fundamental and eternal principles: Purusha and Prakriti. Purusha (Spirit or Consciousness) : Purusha represents pure consciousness, the unchanging, eternal, and passive observer. It is devoid of any attributes and activities and does not directly engage in the process of creation. There are many individual purushas, each representing a separate consciousness. Purusha is considered to be the experiencer and enjoys or suffers due to the play of Prakriti but remains uninvolved in the material world. Prakriti (Nature or Matter) : Prakriti, on the other hand, is the principle of matter, which is dynamic, active, and the source of the material world. It is composed of three gunas (qualities or tendencies): Sattva (purity, harmony, balance) Rajas (activity, passion, dy