In Hinduism, Vaisheshika and Samkhya are two of the six classical schools of Indian philosophy (Shad Darshanas). Both have contributed significantly to the development of Indian thought, yet they differ in their foundational concepts, goals, and methodologies. Here's a detailed comparison: 1. Overview: Vaisheshika: Founder : Maharishi Kanada (also known as Kanada Kashyapa). Primary Text : Vaisheshika Sutra. Focus : Metaphysics and categorization of reality. Central Theme : Atomism and the categorization of the universe into distinct entities. Ultimate Goal : Understanding reality through categorization to attain liberation (moksha). Samkhya: Founder : Sage Kapila. Primary Text : Samkhya Karika by Ishvarakrishna. Focus : Dualistic cosmology and the enumeration of fundamental principles (tattvas) of the universe. Central Theme : Dualism between consciousness (Purusha) and matter (Prakriti). Ultimate Goal : Liberation (moksha) through the discernment of the distinct nature of Purusha

Raja Ram Mohan Roy is one of the great reformers of India who challenged unethical practices Hindu society and culture and fought for women's rights and for an end to the practice of ‘sati.’ He died in 1833 while visiting Bristol in Britain . A tomb was raised here his memory. Raja Ram Mohan Roy’s tomb at Arnos Vale in Bristol had fallen into disrepair. The tomb, an architectural gem, was recently restored and opened to public. The restoration of the tomb was made possible by a donation last year of more than £50,000 from Aditya Poddar, a Kolkata Businessman. In 1997, a statue of Raja Ram Mohan Roy was placed on College Green in Bristol .

The notion that British colonial policies and actions significantly shaped or introduced elements into Neo-Hinduism, ostensibly to corrupt young Hindu minds and assist missionaries, is a complex and debated topic in the historical and cultural discourse of British India. Here’s a nuanced exploration of this concept: Neo-Hinduism: An Overview Neo-Hinduism refers to a modern reinterpretation and reformulation of Hindu beliefs, practices, and institutions that emerged during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Key figures associated with Neo-Hinduism include Swami Vivekananda, Ramakrishna, Aurobindo, and others. This movement aimed to respond to the challenges posed by Western modernity and colonial rule, while seeking to reinvigorate and reformulate Hindu traditions in a contemporary context. British Colonial Context Orientalism and Indology: British scholars and administrators like William Jones, Max Müller, and Charles Wilkins were instrumental in the early study and translation of Hind

Tolerance and openness of Hinduism is seen as a weakness by Christian missionaries involves understanding both the intrinsic qualities of Hinduism and the motivations of missionary activities. Here's a detailed exploration: Hinduism's Tolerance and Openness 1. Philosophical Diversity: Hinduism is not a monolithic religion; it encompasses a wide variety of beliefs, practices, and philosophies. It includes polytheism, monotheism, atheism, and agnosticism, and encourages personal spiritual experiences. This diversity is embedded in scriptures like the Vedas, Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita, which advocate for multiple paths to spiritual realization. 2. Acceptance of Multiple Truths: Hindu philosophy often acknowledges that truth can be manifold, encapsulated in the Sanskrit phrase "Ekam sat, vipra bahudha vadanti" (Truth is one, but the wise express it in different ways). This inclusivity means that different deities, practices, and even other religions are often respe

Lladro, a Spanish firm noted for high quality porcelain figurines, has issued a limited edition porcelain figurine of Lord Ganesha in a dancing form. The porcelain figurine of Ganesh is part of Lladro 2008 fall issue. The figurine is presently available in many online stores and retails for $920. Dancing Ganesh idol has all the usual attributes from Ganesha’s iconography and includes the gada (or mace), the paasha (noose or rope), and the broken tusk. Dancing Ganesha is third in a series comprising four pieces inspired in the traditional iconography of Ganesha – earlier Lladro had released Veena Ganesha and Bansuri Ganesha .

Hinduism encompasses a vast array of beliefs and practices. Among its many teachings, one of the most profound and consoling is the belief that all souls will eventually achieve liberation (moksha). This belief underscores the ultimate destiny of every soul, transcending the cycles of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara) to attain a state of eternal bliss and unity with the divine. The doctrine of moksha asserts that the soul is immortal and goes through numerous lifetimes, evolving and purifying itself through experiences and lessons learned in each life. Hinduism provides various paths to achieve moksha, including the path of knowledge (jnana yoga), the path of devotion (bhakti yoga), the path of righteous action (karma yoga), and the path of meditation (dhyana yoga). Each individual can choose a path that resonates with their nature and spiritual inclination. A central text in Hindu philosophy, the Bhagavad Gita, conveys this message of ultimate liberation vividly. In the Gita, Lord

The display of dolls during Navratri is a major event in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and for some communities in Karnataka and Kerala. This display of dolls is known as Navratri Kolu or Golu. In Andhra Pradesh, it is known as Bommala Koluvu. The dolls symbolically represent the army or assembly (durbar) of Goddess Durga. It is also believed that the assembly is held just before the famous battle between Goddess Durga and Mahishasura, which ultimately ends in the victory of good over evil. In 2024, the display of Navaratri Dolls begins on  October 3 and ends on October 12. Navaratri Kolu dolls are a proud possession for many families and to find 50 or 100-year-old Navratri dolls is not rarity in a traditional Hindu family in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. The most important Navaratri dolls are the Marapachi figures – a pair of male and female. Majority of the dolls displayed are of Hindu gods and goddesses. Also on display are figures of prominent personalities, historical

Chanting of the Kumbha Rashi Navratri Mantra helps, Kumbh Rashi born person to attain wealth, prosperity, property, job and desire fulfillments. The mantra should be chanted after taking bath in the morning. You should sit in your pooja room or in a quiet place and chant the mantra. The mantra is ऊॅं प्रभा नमः The mantra should be chanted 21 times. Chanting of the mantra also helps in overcoming your enemies.

Hinduism is often described as a goal-oriented religion with many paths of approach to God, reflecting its rich diversity and inclusivity. This perspective is rooted in several key concepts and practices within Hinduism: Four Main Goals of Life (Purusharthas) Dharma (Righteousness and Duty): Definition: Dharma refers to the moral and ethical duties that govern an individual's life. It encompasses duties to family, society, and oneself, guiding individuals to live in harmony with the laws of nature and society. Significance: Following dharma ensures the maintenance of order and righteousness, contributing to personal and social well-being. Artha (Wealth and Prosperity): Definition: Artha involves the pursuit of material success and prosperity, including wealth, career, and economic stability. Significance: Properly pursued, artha provides the means to live a fulfilling life, support one's family, and contribute to society. Kama (Pleasure and Desire): Definition: Kama encomp

The statement "God Is Not Bothered If No One Believes Or Not" reflects a profound insight into the nature of divinity and faith as understood by many Hindu saints and sages. This perspective emphasizes the transcendence and omnipotence of God, highlighting that divine existence and essence are not contingent upon human belief or recognition. Here is an expanded exploration of this idea through the lens of Hindu philosophy and the wisdom of Hindu saints: 1. Divine Independence from Human Belief In Hindu philosophy, God is often described as "Swayambhu" (self-manifested) and "Svatantra" (independent). This suggests that God's existence is self-sufficient and not reliant on human acknowledgment. Saints like Ramana Maharshi and Swami Vivekananda have often emphasized that the divine is beyond the dualities of belief and disbelief. God's essence and presence are constant, regardless of human perception. 2. The Nature of Divine Compassion Hindu saints ha

This inspirational dialogue happened when Dr. S.I.Tulaev, Russian Indologist, had an interview with Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Swamigal, popularly known as Kanchi Paramacharya. Dr. S.I.Tulaev: A man has no temple or church and does not heed to any dogmas. But he always thinks good and does good throughout his life? Could you kindly tell me, Sir, whether such a man has any salvation at the end of his life? Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Swamigal – Yes…. Don’t think that I am giving you this answer after seeing the modern standards of life. No. This is said in our ancient scriptures themselves. There are many aspirants. The Agnostics, those who enquire into the nature of God and by using their own brain come to the conclusion that there is no God. Secondly, Buddhists, or the Sunyavadins, who believe in non-existence. Thirdly, Jains, who believe in suffering by putting their body to various austerities, vratas. Fourthly, Sai

The present Tamil Nadu State Government had changed the Tamil New Year from the first day of the Tamil month of Chithirai (mid-April) to first of Thai (mid-January) through legislation in the beginning of year 2008. This was challenged in the court and now the High Court has given its verdict that there is no unconstitutionality or illegality in changing the Tamil New Year to Thai first day, which is also the Pongal day . The decision to change the New Year date by the state government is based on a decision made in 1922 when over 500 scholars, led by Maraimalai Adigal, founder of the Thani Tamil Iyakkam (Pure Tamil Movement) met at Pachaiyappa’s college in Chennai and decided that Tamils needed a separate calendar in the name of Tamil savant Thiruvalluvar. They also determined that the birth year of Thiruvalluvar was 31 BC. This was accepted in 1971 by the then Tamil Nadu Government headed by M Karunanidhi. Giving its approval to the change of Tamil New Year day the court ma

Hinduism offers profound teachings about the nature of the divine, the universe, and the role of humans. The belief that God will continue to exist even without humans is deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy and theology. The Eternal Nature of God In Hinduism, God is often conceptualized as an eternal, all-pervading presence that transcends human existence. This divine entity is known by various names and forms, such as Brahman, Vishnu, Shiva, and Devi, among others. These deities represent different aspects of the same ultimate reality, which is eternal and unchanging. Brahman: The Supreme Reality Brahman, in particular, is considered the ultimate, formless, and infinite reality that underlies all existence. According to the Upanishads, ancient philosophical texts that form the basis of Hindu thought, Brahman is described as "sat-chit-ananda" (being-consciousness-bliss). This means that Brahman is existence itself, consciousness itself, and bliss itself. As such, Brahman exist

There are many Hindus who observe Navratri Vrat or fasting during the nine days of Navratri. Most people observe a partial fast during Navratri and abstain from non-vegetarian food, alcohol etc.  In 2024, Navratri begins on October 3 and ends on October 12. The fasting is generally dedicated to Goddess Durga. In South India , especially in Kerala, Navratri Vrat is dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi. Puranas indicated that the importance of Navratri fast was narrated by Goddess Durga to one of her devotees. There are no strict rules for any fasting in Hindu religion and usually, the devotees decide how they want to do the fasting during the period. Navratri Fasting in South India In South India , the nine days of Navratri is divided into three parts – three days each for Goddess Durga, Goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Saraswati. In North India , there is no division but is dedicated to Mother Goddess or Shakti. People take bath in the morning and evening during Navratri pe

In India , philosophy has never been only an intellectual pursuit of knowledge of the Ultimate Reality. The task of a philosopher here is not over with his having constructed a metaphysical system, which satisfies the intellect. The intellect is not the whole man. He has other aspects, equally or probably more alive in him, which seek for satisfaction. Man aspires to seek for Power and Joy as much as for knowledge. It is really doubtful whether man would have philosophized at all, if he were absolutely happy and if all his wants were satisfied. The chief concern of man therefore is not to know what God is but to know how he can become God. If the self-satisfied and perfect absolute God is ever free from want and is Blissful in itself, what is that to us? It will be like an enormous treasure of wealth existing somewhere, which we cannot use. That everything is dear to us for own sake is an eternal truth discovered by Yajnavalkya long, long ago. An important part of the t

Dronacharya, a central character in the Indian epic Mahabharata, is a complex figure whose character traits can be interpreted in multiple ways, making it difficult to categorize him strictly as either good or bad. Here are some key traits and actions that illustrate his complexity: Positive Traits: Skilled Teacher : Dronacharya is renowned for his exceptional skills as a warrior and teacher. He is the guru to the Kauravas and the Pandavas, imparting knowledge of military arts and strategy. Dedication to Students : He is dedicated to the education and improvement of his students, often going to great lengths to ensure they are well-trained. Loyalty : Drona's loyalty to Hastinapura and his duty as a royal teacher are significant aspects of his character. He feels a strong sense of duty towards the kingdom. Negative Traits: Partiality : While he is a great teacher, Dronacharya shows favoritism, particularly towards Arjuna. This bias creates tension and resentment among other students

Varuna, one of the principal deities of the Vedic pantheon, is not widely worshipped today for several reasons that are rooted in the historical, cultural, and religious evolution of Hinduism: Shift in Religious Focus : During the Vedic period, Varuna was a major deity associated with cosmic order (Rta), water, and the law. However, as Hinduism evolved, the religious focus shifted towards other deities such as Vishnu, Shiva, and Devi (the Goddess). These deities became central figures in the Puranic traditions that followed the Vedic period. Integration and Assimilation : Many Vedic deities, including Varuna, were assimilated into the Puranic framework in different forms. Varuna's attributes and roles were often absorbed by other gods. For example, aspects of Varuna's association with water were taken over by deities like Vishnu (in his aspect as Narayana who rests on the cosmic ocean) and local water deities. Evolution of Mythology : The Puranas and later texts developed new m

Siddhartha, based on the early life of Gautama Buddha, is one of the most famous novels of Hermann Hesse, who received Nobel for Literature in 1946. The translation into Sanskrit, which was originally written in German, is done by L. Sulochana Devi, who is a Reader at Government Sanskrit College , Trivandrum . Sanskrit Version of Siddhartha is published by the Kerala Chapter of the Hermann Hesse Society of India. Siddharta has been one of Hesse 's most widely read works. Its English translation in the 1950s became a spiritual guide to a number of people around the world.

The Mamallapuram Temples, earlier known as Mahabalipuram, located along the Coromandel Coast in Tamil Nadu faces the threat of submersion due to sea level rise. Mamallapuram monuments and temples were founded by the Pallava kings in the 7th and 8th centuries and are carved on rocks. They are also on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The famous Shore Temple is also under threat from sea level rise. V Gangadharan Writes in ExpressBuzz about the threat  Addressing a joint expert workshop on conservation organized by the Archaeological Survey of India and the Janssen Phasrmaceutica, Belgium here, Director of Environment, Government of Tamil Nadu, R Annamalai, said the issue of climate change poses a real threat to the conservation of the timeless monuments. The sea level has constantly risen in Mamallapuram too like elsewhere.  “If the trend continued, the monuments which are rich reminders of our hoary cultural heritage may go under the sea by the end of this ce

Introducing the four stages of life in Hinduism (Ashramas) to a child can be an enriching and enlightening experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make it engaging and easy to understand: 1. Keep It Simple and Relatable Brahmacharya (Student Life) Explanation: This stage focuses on education and learning. Relatable Example: Compare it to the child’s current school life where they learn new things and develop good habits. Activity: Share stories of famous sages or characters from Hindu mythology who were dedicated students. You could also involve them in simple, fun learning activities like yoga or reading short moral stories. Grihastha (Householder) Explanation: This stage involves family life, marriage, and responsibilities. Relatable Example: Point out parents and other family members who take care of the household, go to work, and support the family. Activity: Role-playing games where the child can pretend to take on different family roles, or helping with simple hou

Let's think of life as a big, fun journey with four exciting stages, like levels in a game. The first stage is called "Brahmacharya." Imagine you are getting ready for a big adventure. In this stage, you are like a superhero in training! Brahmacharya is all about learning and growing. It's the time when children go to school, just like you do, to learn lots of new things. They learn about reading, writing, math, science, and also about being a good person. Just like superheroes have their mentors, in this stage, kids have their parents, teachers, and elders to guide them. They learn important values like kindness, honesty, and respect. Brahmacharya is also about taking care of your body and mind. It means eating healthy food, playing and exercising, and learning how to focus and be calm, maybe by practicing some simple breathing exercises or meditation. So, Brahmacharya is like the training level in the game of life. It's all about preparing yourself with knowledg

Vishwakarma Puja, or Vishwakarma Jayanti, is celebrated annually on September 17 or September 18 in Bengal, Orissa, Jharkhand , Assam , Tripura and other parts of Eastern India . Majority of the Hindu festivals are not celebrated on a constant date because most auspicious days and festivals depend on the lunar calendar and on tithi – lunar day, which changes annually. But majority of times Vishwakarma puja falls on September 17 (very rarely it might vary by a day). This is because Vishwakarma Puja day is calculated based on the transit of the sun. The two major schools of almanacs followed in Bengali are the he Surya Siddhanta and Bisuddha Siddhanta. Both subscribe to the same view. Vishwakarma Puja is dedicated to Lord Vishwakarma the divine architect of the universe in Hinduism. Sudeshna Banerjee writes about this interesting aspect in The Telegraph, Calcutta . “Vishwakarma puja is scheduled on the last day of the Bengali month of Bhadra, more specifical

One cannot but marvel at the deep insight and sweep of imagination of our ancients to visualized cosmic energy in the form of Nataraja. The dance of the Nataraja symbolizes truth and beauty; realization and dissolution; force and rhythm; movement and change; time flowing and time still. The Nataraja is a representation of the divine as creator and artist. Indira Gandhi – Former Prime Minister of India (Source: In her foreword to C. Sivaramurti's monograph of 1974 on Nataraja) ------------------- Nataraja is a powerful symbol in Hinduism representing various aspects including truth, beauty, and cosmic balance. Nataraja is the form of Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer, performing the divine dance called Tandava. This dance symbolizes the cosmic cycles of creation and destruction, as well as the eternal flow of energy within the universe. The portrayal of Nataraja often depicts Shiva dancing within a ring of fire, symbolizing the cycle of creation and destruction, while holdi

In Hinduism, the traditional life is divided into four stages or ashramas : Brahmacharya (student life), Grihastha (householder life), Vanaprastha (retired life), and Sannyasa (renounced life). Each ashrama represents a phase of life with specific duties and responsibilities. Skipping Grihastha and Vanaprastha to enter Sannyasa: Classical View : Traditionally, it is expected that one progresses sequentially through these stages. The Grihastha Ashrama is considered crucial as it involves fulfilling family duties, raising children, and contributing to society. Vanaprastha, the stage of gradual retirement from worldly responsibilities, is seen as a preparatory phase for Sannyasa. Exceptions and Flexibility : However, Hinduism is diverse, and different texts, sects, and gurus offer varied perspectives. Some individuals, feeling a deep calling towards renunciation, may bypass the householder and retired stages. This path is generally more acceptable if the person shows strong spiritual incl

Violence is not the answer to any problem. Violence only breeds hatred, resentment and more violence and the vicious cycle continues. The conversion method adopted by Christians in India was condemned by Hindus in private and many Hindus showed a callous attitude towards the Christian conversion issue. But dramatic developments around the world in the past three decades saw secular Hindus becoming insecure and threatened and this was cleverly exploited by fundamentalists. A very minority section in Hindu society started adopting tit for tat method and the majority of secular Hindus kept silent. Christian aggression in the form of conversion was met with violence by Hindus. Churches were attacked or burned, poor people were killed and thousands were rendered homeless. What did Hindu society gain from this meaningless violence? Nothing! In a democratic society there are several non-violent methods to show protest. Printed literatures and methods employed by Christian missionar

1. Introduction: What is Nyaya? Nyaya is a way of thinking and understanding the world around us. Imagine you’re a detective solving a mystery. You ask questions, look for clues, and try to find the truth. Nyaya helps us do just that with everything we see and learn in life. 2. Four Steps to Knowing: The Detective's Tools Nyaya uses four main tools to find out what’s true. Let’s think of them as a detective’s special gadgets: Perception (Pratyaksha) : This is like using your eyes, ears, nose, tongue, and skin to find clues. For example, you see a dog barking or feel the warmth of the sun. Your senses help you understand what’s happening. Inference (Anumana) : This is like making a guess based on what you see. If you see smoke, you can guess there’s a fire somewhere nearby. It’s like putting two and two together to figure something out. Comparison (Upamana) : This is comparing things to understand better. If someone tells you a new animal looks like a cat but bigger, you can picture

Adi Shankaracharya and the Samkhya philosophy represent two distinct streams within the broader framework of Indian philosophy. Here's a detailed comparison highlighting their key differences: 1. Metaphysical Foundations Adi Shankaracharya (Advaita Vedanta) Non-Dualism (Advaita): Shankaracharya propounded the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta, which asserts that there is only one ultimate reality, Brahman. This reality is non-dual, meaning there is no distinction between the individual soul (Atman) and Brahman. The perceived multiplicity and diversity of the world are illusions (Maya). Brahman as Ultimate Reality: Brahman is described as Nirguna (without attributes) and Nirakara (formless). It is the singular, infinite, and eternal essence of the universe. Samkhya Philosophy Dualism: Samkhya posits a dualistic reality consisting of Purusha (consciousness or spirit) and Prakriti (matter or nature). These are two fundamental, independent principles that interact to produce the univers

Epic Ramayana is a favorite subject for Indian animation industry. There have been numerous animation projects based on Ramayana and the latest to join the list is ‘Ramayana The Epic’, directed by Chetan Desai and produced by Maya Entertainment Pvt Ltd. The 100-mintue 3D Animated Feature Film will feature Hindi actors Manoj Bajpai, Juhi Chawla, and Ashutosh Rana in the voices of Lord Ram, Mata Sita, and Ravan. The Hindi language version of ‘Ramayana The Epic’ is expected to release in early 2009. Later, the movie will be dubbed into regional languages and English. (Image belongs to Maya Entertainment Ltd.)

Lord Krishna from Hindu religion and Loki from Norse mythology are two intriguing figures who, despite emerging from vastly different cultural and religious contexts, share several compelling similarities. These similarities can be explored through their roles, characteristics, relationships, and symbolic meanings within their respective mythological frameworks. Similarities Between Lord Krishna and Loki Trickster Archetype : Krishna : Known for his playful and mischievous behavior, Krishna's childhood is filled with stories of pranks, like stealing butter and teasing the gopis (cowherd maidens). His trickery often carries deeper moral or spiritual lessons. Loki : In Norse mythology, Loki is the quintessential trickster. His cleverness and propensity for mischief lead to both humorous and catastrophic outcomes, such as the creation of many problems for the gods that often require equally cunning solutions. Shape-Shifting Abilities : Krishna : Krishna is capable of assuming various