Hinduism, the oldest living religion in the world, offers a rich tapestry of spiritual, philosophical, and practical guidance that can address the myriad challenges life presents. Here are several ways in which Hinduism provides answers to life's difficulties: 1. Philosophical Foundation: Dharma and Karma Dharma : The concept of dharma, or righteous duty, provides a moral and ethical framework that guides individuals in making decisions and living a virtuous life. By following one's dharma, a person can find purpose and direction even in challenging times. Karma : The law of karma, which emphasizes that every action has consequences, helps individuals understand and accept the results of their actions. This understanding can provide solace and motivation to act positively, even when facing adversity. 2. Spiritual Practices: Yoga and Meditation Yoga : Practicing yoga helps maintain physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual growth. It teaches control over the body and mind, ...

The issue of Western scholars not fully capturing the essence of Hinduism's teachings can be attributed to several factors: Cultural and Philosophical Differences : Hinduism is deeply rooted in the cultural and philosophical context of India, which can be vastly different from Western perspectives. Concepts such as Dharma, Karma, Moksha, and the cyclical nature of time might not have direct equivalents in Western thought, leading to misunderstandings or oversimplifications. Language Barriers : Much of Hindu philosophy and sacred texts are in Sanskrit or other Indian languages. Nuances and subtleties in these languages can be lost in translation, leading to misinterpretations. Scholars who do not have a deep understanding of these languages might miss crucial aspects of the teachings. Colonial and Orientalist Perspectives : Historical Western interpretations of Hinduism were often shaped by colonial and orientalist biases. Early scholars approached Hinduism from a Eurocentric perspe...

Many readers of this blog wanted to know the contact number of Tirupati Temple . The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTDs), the administration body of Tirupati Venkateswara Temples has an Information Call Center . The number of the Tirumala Tirupati Balaji Temple Call Center is 0877- 2277777 or 2233333. You can get all the relevant information regarding bookings, timings etc from the Call Center . Devotees from outside India also can make use of the call center. The phone number of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTDs) Call Center is – 0877 – 2277777 or 0877 – 2233333. If any of the readers have a better answer please post it on the comment section or please send to our mail id – hindublog @ gmail.com If you have similar questions, doubts, and questions on Hindu religion please feel free to discuss with us or mail us the questions at hindublog @ gmail.com. You can also ask us to write on subjects related to Hinduism that you feel need to be addressed....

The relationship between Satyabhama and Vyasa in the Mahabharata provides several lessons, focusing on themes of respect for wisdom, the role of women in ancient narratives, and the pursuit of spiritual and material knowledge. Respect for Wisdom and Elders : Vyasa, as a revered sage and the author of the Mahabharata, is a symbol of wisdom and knowledge. Satyabhama’s interactions with him highlight the importance of respecting and seeking guidance from those who are wise and experienced. This reflects the broader cultural value in the Mahabharata of honoring one's elders and mentors. Role of Women in Knowledge Acquisition : Satyabhama’s curiosity and willingness to learn from Vyasa showcase the significant, though often understated, role women play in the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom in the epic. Her character illustrates that women are not merely passive participants but are actively engaged in learning and spiritual growth. Balancing Material and Spiritual Desires : Satyabhama ...

Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, is often associated with the number three, which holds significant symbolic meaning in various aspects of his iconography and mythology. Here's a more detailed expansion: Master of Three Worlds Shiva is revered as the master of the three worlds: the physical world (Bhūr-loka), the world of ancestors (Bhuvar-loka), and the celestial world (Svar-loka). This signifies his supreme power and dominance over all realms of existence, highlighting his role as a universal deity who transcends earthly, ancestral, and divine planes. The Trident (Trishula) The trident, or Trishula, is one of Shiva's most iconic weapons. It represents: The Three Gunas : The three fundamental qualities or energies in nature—Sattva (goodness, constructive), Rajas (passion, active), and Tamas (darkness, destructive). Shiva's mastery over the Trishula signifies his control over these essential forces of nature. The Three Processes : Creation, preservation, and...

Hindu religion is replete with complex characters and narratives that transcend conventional gender roles and societal expectations. Among these, the relationship between Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva stands out as a powerful example. Contrary to the stereotypical portrayal of a submissive wife, Parvati is depicted as a strong, independent, and equal partner to Shiva. This dynamic challenges traditional roles and highlights the progressive aspects of Hindu philosophy. 1. Parvati's Strength and Independence Parvati, also known as Shakti, embodies strength, wisdom, and independence. She is not merely a consort of Shiva but a goddess in her own right, with a distinct identity and powers. Parvati's determination and resilience are evident in her penance to marry Shiva. Her severe austerities and unwavering resolve demonstrate her agency and ability to shape her destiny, qualities that defy the submissive archetype. 2. Equality and Partnership The relationship between Parvati and S...

A recently released book titled ‘Goddess Mahalakshmi at Kolhapur : Shaktipeeth’ explores the famous temple dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi at Kolhapur in Maharashtra . Important architectural details and legends associated with the temple are narrated in the book. A major highlight of the book is the aerial photographs of the Kolhapur Mahalakshmi Temple by aerial photographer Gopal Bodhe. The book is authored by Gopal Bodhe, P M Powar, Dattatray Lad and Dyaneshwari Talpade. The book delves into the legends of Mahalakshmi of Kolhapur, local tales of Goddess Lakshmi, the idol worshipped in the temple, temple architecture, and various festivals celebrated at the temple. The book is published by Siddhishakti Publications.

The unparalleled wisdom in Hindu Scriptures like Vedas, Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads and Puranas are now being applied in many areas of modern business management. An article titled ‘Applying Meaning to Management With Ancient Hindu Mythology’ by Rama Lakshmi in the Washington Post explores this new trend in Business Management by tracing the methods adopted by Devdutt Pattanaik, an expert on Hindu Scriptures and he also writes the column Management Mythos in the Economic Times. Excerpts from the article "I am a pattern-finder. The mythologies are stars -- I point out the constellation," Devdutt Pattanaik said. "The world of business and the world of our mythological tales are not too different. The characters and the situations are similar. I apply their meanings to modern corporate management. Business is run on a pattern of behavior. I help create the belief that governs behavior." "They understand how beliefs are created, how forms acquire meani...

The practice of Jagaranas, also known as night vigils, is an important tradition in Hindu religion that involves staying awake throughout the night, engaging in devotional activities such as singing bhajans (devotional songs), reading scriptures, and performing rituals. The origin of this practice is often attributed to a story involving Queen Tara and her husband King Harishchandra. The Story of Queen Tara and King Harishchandra Introduction Long ago, in a kingdom renowned for its piety and devotion, lived King Harishchandra and his queen, Tara. They were famous for their unwavering dedication to truth, righteousness, and their deep devotion to the divine. Despite their prosperity and virtuous rule, they longed for a spiritual experience that would bring them even closer to the divine presence. The Desire for Divine Darshan One day, Queen Tara expressed a deep yearning to have the darshan (divine vision) of a goddess. Harishchandra, equally devout, shared this desire. Together, they d...

In Hinduism, Shiva is often depicted as a god who defies conventional norms and societal expectations. This characterization can be understood through various myths, stories, and symbols associated with him. The idea that "Shiva violates all fake restrictive conventions and fake social etiquette" encapsulates his role as a divine force that challenges the status quo and transcends mundane limitations. Here's an expansion on this theme: 1. Asceticism and Material Renunciation Shiva is the archetype of the ascetic, often portrayed in deep meditation on Mount Kailash, far removed from worldly life. His lifestyle violates societal expectations that prioritize material wealth, family responsibilities, and social status. By choosing the path of renunciation, Shiva rejects the conventional markers of success and fulfillment, emphasizing inner spiritual growth over external achievements. 2. Destruction and Creation As the destroyer in the Hindu trinity (Trimurti), Shiva embodies ...

Non-violence, truth, non-theft, continence and non-possession, absence of anger, service to elders, cleanliness, contentment and honesty, non-conceit, candor, faith and non-injury are the qualities of Sattva. I am the doer, enjoyer, speaker, am conceited these are the qualities of Rajas. Sleep, laziness, delusion, attachment, sex and theft are the qualities of Tamas. The person of Sattva is above, of Rajas is in the middle and of Tamas, low. Right knowledge is Sattvika; of rituals, Rajasa; blindness, Tamasa. Sariraka Upanishad Sattva (Purity, Harmony, Goodness):  Sattva represents qualities such as non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, self-restraint (continence), non-possessiveness, absence of anger, service to elders, cleanliness, contentment, honesty, non-conceit, candor, faith, and non-injury. Individuals dominated by Sattva tend to exhibit these virtues. They are characterized by clarity of mind, spiritual awareness, and a tendency towards ...

In Hindu jagaranas, which are all-night vigils devoted to worship and singing in praise of deities, the story of Goddess Sheranvali, also known as Durga or Sherawali Mata, is often recounted through vibrant songs and rhythms. These devotional gatherings are filled with fervor and spiritual energy, drawing devotees into a deep state of worship and connection with the divine. One of the most striking phenomena observed in jagaranas is the occurrence of "khelna," where the Goddess is believed to "play" or possess a woman from among the devotees. This divine possession is a profound spiritual event marked by noticeable physical and behavioral changes in the possessed woman. The initial signs of possession often include glazed eyes, suggesting a trance-like state where the woman is no longer fully present in her usual consciousness. Her voice may undergo a transformation, taking on a different tone or resonance, which is believed to be the voice of the Goddess speaki...

‘We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus — and nonbelievers.’ This sentence in the Inaugural Speech of Obama is seen as an acknowledgment of the accomplishments and contributions of Hindu Americans to United States . Vamsee Juluri, Professor of Media Studies, University of San Francisco , finds deeper meaning in this gesture, the first by a President of United States of America. Writing in The Huffington Post, Vamsee Juluri sees it as a recognition for whatever good Hinduism has stood for and for whatever good it can continue to do. Excerpts from the article So when Obama included "Hindu" in his address, I saw it as a recognition for whatever good Hinduism has stood for and for whatever good it can continue to do. I saw it as a recognition that was needed, because despite the spread of interest in yoga and spirituality in America , there have also been persistent misconceptions about Hinduism, particularly in the media. Although there h...

Jagaranas, or night-long vigils, are an integral aspect of Goddess worship in northern India, particularly during the festival of Navratri. These events, characterized by their vibrant and communal nature, hold deep religious, cultural, and social significance. Here, we delve into the various dimensions of jagaranas and their importance in the worship of the Goddess, particularly in her form as Sharanvali. Spiritual Significance Awakening the Mind and Spirit : The term "jagarana" itself means wakefulness, symbolizing a spiritual awakening. These night-long vigils are designed to keep the participants awake, both physically and spiritually, encouraging a state of heightened awareness and devotion. Through continuous singing of bhajans (devotional songs), recitation of scriptures, and storytelling, devotees seek to connect with the divine energy of the Goddess, elevating their minds towards higher spiritual goals. Devotional Practices : The singing of bhajans and kirtans (devot...

Sudden downfall of successful companies and their jailed bosses reading Holy Scriptures in prison is now a common phenomenon. Had these top leaders in industry taken to scriptures early they would have avoided the downfall and saved their employees. Dr S. Kannan, a Chennai-based chartered accountant, and author of ‘Vedic Management’ in an interview to D. Murali of The Hindu talks about the Corporate Governance and Indian Wisdom. He quotes from the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita and Samhitas which extol the need to be truthful, transparent and righteous in society. Some excerpts from the highly thought provoking interview What accounts for the sudden downfall of otherwise successful organisations? Are there any insights from the scriptures in this regard? ‘Vinasa kale viparita buddhih,’ which in Sanskrit means that when one is on the path of destruction, his mind gets perverted. ‘This happens due to the negative vasanas (inherent impressions) of a person which suddenly ...

Magh Shukla Saptami, or Magha Saptami, is an auspicious day dedicated to Lord Surya, the sun god in Hinduism. In 2026, the date of Magh Saptami is January 25. It is observed on the seventh day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) of Magh Month (January – February). The most important ritual on the day is taking a holy dip (bathing ritual) on sunrise. The famous Chandrabhaga fair is held on the day at Konark in Odisha. Thousands of devotees take a holy bath at the Chandrabhaga Tirtha near the Konark Sun Temple on Magha Shukla Saptami. Several thousands of devotees also take a holy dip at the near by sea. The day is also observed as Ratha Saptami and is a major event in Tirupati Balaji Temple and in many parts of South India . Magha Saptami is also known as Surya Jayanti.

Parakala Yati was a prominent philosopher of the 16th century CE, renowned for his contributions to the Vishishtadvaita school of thought established by Ramanuja. Vishishtadvaita, or qualified non-dualism, emphasizes the belief in a unified reality where individual souls (jivas) and the Supreme Being (Brahman) are distinct yet inseparably connected. Parakala Yati's philosophical pursuits were rooted deeply in this tradition, and he is remembered for his rigorous defense of its tenets. One of Parakala Yati’s notable works is the "Vijayindra-parajaya," a critical text that addresses and refutes key aspects of the Dvaita philosophy, a dualistic school founded by Madhva. Dvaita philosophy posits a strict dualism between the individual soul and the Supreme Being, presenting a distinct contrast to the qualified non-dualism of Vishishtadvaita. In the "Vijayindra-parajaya," Parakala Yati critiques several fundamental points of Madhva's Dvaita philosophy. One signifi...

Indian Temple Sculpture by John Guy looks at Indian temple sculpture in context, as an instrument of worship which embodies powerful religious experience. The book serves as an absorbing introduction to the principal iconographic forms in Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism. A major highlight of the book is the pictures and photographs – 150 color and 50 black and white. The photographs are from the famous collection of South-Asian sculpture in London ’s Victoria and Albert Museum . ‘Indian Temple Sculpture’ considers the cosmological meaning hidden in the sculptures, its origins, the temple setting and the role of sculpture within it and reveals the vivid rituals and traditions still in practice today. Kesavan Veluthat reviews the book in The Hindu He treats the subject under six separate chapters. The first chapter deals with how religion evolved in India in such a way as to require icons. A religion based on ritual does not require idols; one based on devotion does....

The Panchavimsha Brahmana , also known as the Tandya Mahabrahmana , is an important Sanskrit text and one of the Brahmanas attached to the Sama Veda . The text is named ‘Panchavimsha’ (meaning twenty-five) because it comprises twenty-five books or sections. These books provide extensive descriptions of various Vedic rituals, particularly those performed by the Udgatr priests, who are specialists in chanting the hymns of the Sama Veda. Content and Structure The Panchavimsha Brahmana elaborates on numerous rituals and ceremonies, most notably the Soma sacrifices . The Soma sacrifice is a complex ritual central to Vedic religion, involving the extraction, consecration, and consumption of the Soma plant, which was believed to have divine properties. In addition to Soma sacrifices, the text provides detailed guidance on other sacrificial rites and ceremonies, including those conducted along the Saraswati and Drishadvati rivers. These rivers hold significant religious and cultural importan...

Pambatti Chittar was a renowned Tamil Siddha whose life and works are believed to span between the 15th and 18th centuries. The term "Pambatti" translates to "one who makes snakes dance," reflecting his intimate association with serpents. In his poetic compositions, Pambatti often alludes to the dance of snakes, a motif that has sparked various interpretations among scholars and devotees. Life and Background Pambatti Chittar's exact historical timeline is ambiguous, with his lifetime placed somewhere between the 15th and 18th centuries. This period in Tamil Nadu was marked by the flourishing of Siddha tradition, which is a mystical branch of Tamil Shaivism focused on spiritual and medicinal practices. Interpretations of His Name and Symbolism The name "Pambatti" suggests that Pambatti Chittar might have been a snake charmer by profession. This interpretation is supported by numerous references to snakes and their dance in his verses. However, there is ...

The story of Sage Narada cursing God Vishnu, resulting in Vishnu's reliance on a monkey, is an intriguing tale rooted in Hindu mythology. This narrative illustrates the dynamics of divine play, karma, and the interconnectedness of the cosmic order. The Prelude to the Curse Sage Narada, known for his devotion and wisdom, was also famous for his mischievous nature. He was a revered sage who traveled across the three worlds singing hymns and spreading the name of Lord Vishnu. Despite his wisdom, Narada's vanity sometimes got the better of him. One such instance led to the events culminating in the curse. Narada's Request One day, Narada encountered a beautiful princess and fell deeply in love with her. He wanted to marry her and sought a way to impress her. Believing that a more attractive appearance would win her affection, Narada approached Lord Vishnu, whom he considered his dear friend and benefactor. Narada requested Vishnu to grant him the visage of "Hari." In ...

In the vast expanse of Hindu philosophy, the ego, or 'ahankara,' is often seen as a formidable barrier to spiritual growth and inner peace. The sages of Hindu tradition have long emphasized the importance of taming the ego to attain wisdom and enlightenment. One of the most profound insights they offer is the idea that judging others is a direct manifestation of an untamed ego. Understanding Ego in Hindu Philosophy In Hinduism, the ego is viewed as the false self, the aspect of one's identity that is overly attached to the material world and the illusion of separateness. This 'ahankara' clouds our true nature, which is intrinsically connected to the divine and the universe. The ego leads to the perception of duality – the 'I' versus 'other' – and fosters feelings of superiority, inferiority, and judgment. The Act of Judging When we judge others, we are essentially reinforcing our sense of self-importance and separateness. Judgment often stems from a ...

In Hindu philosophy, the belief that all things that are not in our control are the result of past actions is deeply rooted in the concept of karma. Karma is a fundamental doctrine in Hinduism which states that every action has consequences that will manifest in the future. This belief is intertwined with the understanding of dharma (duty/righteousness) and the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth (samsara). Karma and Its Implications Karma (Actions and Consequences): Sanchita Karma: This is the accumulated karma of all past lives. It represents the total of past actions that have not yet borne fruit. Prarabdha Karma: This is the portion of sanchita karma that is ripe and ready to be experienced in the present life. It determines the circumstances of one's current existence, including one's birth, family, physical body, and life span. Kriyamana Karma (Agami): These are the actions currently being performed, which will affect the future. These are the new seeds sown in...

Swami Vivekananda in America : New Findings by Asim Chaudhuri is a third book in the series in a series on ‘new information’ about Swami Vivekananda. The book reveals some fresh information regarding the setting in which Swami Vivekananda had to work in America, the forces that opposed him and those that stood behind him and also details on some places that he visited during his most famous journey. A major highlight of the book is a large number of rare and impressive photographs. Incidents and the homes that Swami Vivekananda visited in Massachusetts , New York , Wisconsin , Minnesota , Iowa , Tennessee , Michigan , Ohio , Maine , Maryland , Washington , Connecticut , New Hampshire and California during his journey are unraveled in the book. The two earlier works in the series on new information about Swami Vivekananda are Swami Vivekananda in the West: New Discoveries, and Swami Vivekananda in Chicago, New Findings. Swami Vivekananda in America : New Findings Autho...

In the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana, the character of Rama is often highlighted for his virtues of righteousness, duty, and humility. One particular aspect of his leadership that stands out is his relationship with Hanuman, his devoted follower. This relationship offers valuable insights for modern political leaders, demonstrating how humility and the recognition of one's limitations can strengthen leadership through collaboration and trust in capable allies. The Leadership of Rama Rama, an avatar of the god Vishnu, is portrayed as the ideal leader and a paragon of virtue. Despite his divine status and royal heritage, Rama exhibits a profound sense of humility and an awareness of his human limitations. His journey is not just a testament to his bravery and moral fortitude but also to his ability to inspire and mobilize others towards a common cause. Humility in Leadership Rama’s reluctance to embrace leadership roles without hesitation demonstrates his humility. He does not se...

A book titled '52 Velli Sinthanai Manikal' or 'Virtuous Thoughts for 52 Fridays' has been compiled by Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS) to serve as a guideline in delivering sermons at temples all over Malaysia. The book lays stress on national unity, important teachings of Hinduism and community service. The topics for sermons in 52 Velli Sinthanai Manikal highlights universal human values advocated by all religions and the ones that were vital for enhancing the spirit of unity and togetherness. The book was complied in line with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's call that all religious institutions play a proactive role in strengthening national unity. "The prime minister's proposal that religious leaders help get the message across on unity through the Friday khutbah for Muslims and Sunday sermons for Christians is most appropriate. "In line with this, temples in the country are encouraged to use this book as a guideline in their...

In the kingdom of Ayodhya, Hanuman, the devoted servant of Rama, diligently took care of all Rama's needs. Hanuman’s unwavering devotion often led him to attend to Rama's every little requirement, earning him admiration from many, but also offending some within the royal household, including Sita, Lakshman, Bharata, and Shatrughna. They felt that Hanuman's constant presence and involvement in Rama’s life left them little room to serve Rama themselves. To address this, they convened and created a comprehensive list of chores and responsibilities necessary to care for Rama. They divided these tasks amongst themselves, meticulously ensuring that each one of them had a role to play in Rama's daily life. However, they purposefully excluded Hanuman from this division of labor, hoping to minimize his omnipresence around Rama. When Hanuman reviewed the list, he noticed a crucial task missing: snapping fingers when Rama yawned. In the cultural beliefs of the time, it was held th...

The annual Sabarimala Makara Jyothi and Makaravilakku festival  attracts thousands of devotees to the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple in Kerala. All the television channels in Kerala and some in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh will be telecasting live the Sabarimala Makara Jyothi and Makara Vilakku on Monday, January 14, 2025 in the evening from 1700 hrs or early. But sadly there is no website on the internet exclusively doing the live streaming of Sabarimala Makara Jyothi and Makara Vilakku Online. But still there is an option to watch it online, if lady luck smiles. The news channels in Kerala like Indiavision, Asianet and Manorama News has websites doing live streaming. And almost all the News channels and Entertainment channels in Kerala will be doing Sabarimala Makara Jyothi and Makara Vilakku Live. The best option to watch Makara Jyothi and Makaravilakku live is Janam TV another option is Asianet News Channel - you can watch it here - Asianet live tv Another ...

Pandav Pratap is a celebrated Marathi version of the Mahabharata, composed by the poet Shridhara in the 18th century CE. This epic, which comprises 64 chapters and 13,397 couplets , offers a unique perspective on the ancient Indian epic by focusing primarily on the heroic exploits of the Pandavas and the devotion to Krishna. It is widely regarded as the most popular retelling of the Mahabharata in Maharashtra, reflecting the region's cultural and religious ethos. Shridhara and His Times Shridhara (1658-1729) was a renowned Marathi poet and saint. He lived during a period of significant political and cultural upheaval in Maharashtra, which was marked by the decline of the Mughal Empire and the rise of the Maratha confederacy. This era saw a revival of regional languages and literature as local identities and cultural traditions were strengthened in the face of external influences. Shridhara's works, including Pandav Pratap, are part of this broader movement of literary and r...

Osho (Rajneesh) and Paramahansa Yogananda are two prominent figures in the world of spirituality and self-realization, each offering unique perspectives and teachings that have attracted followers globally. While both draw from Eastern spiritual traditions, their philosophies and methods of teaching have distinct differences. Here’s a detailed exploration of these differences: Foundational Philosophy Paramahansa Yogananda : Core Teaching : Yogananda's teachings are centered around the concept of Kriya Yoga , a spiritual practice aimed at accelerating spiritual growth and self-realization. This method emphasizes the harmonious integration of body, mind, and spirit to achieve divine union. Philosophical Roots : His philosophy is deeply rooted in the ancient Hindu scriptures, including the Bhagavad Gita and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. He emphasized a balanced life with devotion, meditation, and service as key components. Goal : The ultimate goal is achieving a direct, personal exp...