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When Abused Or Praised In Familiar Language If You Are Neither Disturbed Nor Elated, Then You Are A Jivanmukta – Wisdom Of Hindu Sannyasi

The phrase "When Abused Or Praised In Familiar Language If You Are Neither Disturbed Nor Elated, Then You Are A Jivanmukta – Wisdom Of Hindu Sannyasi" encapsulates a profound spiritual teaching within the Hindu tradition. Let's break it down and explore its deeper meaning: When Abused Or Praised In Familiar Language : This part refers to the reactions one might have to external stimuli, specifically when they are subjected to either abuse (criticism, insult) or praise (compliment, admiration). The use of "familiar language" suggests that these reactions come from people within one's social circle or community, making the impact potentially more personal and significant. If You Are Neither Disturbed Nor Elated : This clause highlights the ideal state of equanimity. To be neither disturbed by abuse nor elated by praise means to maintain a steady, balanced state of mind regardless of external conditions. It signifies an inner stability and emotional resilience ...

Oldest Man in India – Vedas and Vegetarian Diet the Secret to Long Life

Aged 112, Pandit Sudhakar Chaturvedi of Bangalore is believed to be the oldest man in India . This after British veteran Henry Allingham, aged 113, was declared officially the oldest man in the world by the Guinness World Records. Pandit Sudhakar Chaturvedi of Bangalore says the secret of his long life is laughing, loving, strict vegetarian diet, vitamin tablets and a passion for the Vedas. Times of India Reports "Chaturveda is the master of all Vedas and my favourite," Pandit Sudhakar Chaturvedi said. "If one follows the Vedas and keep one's body, soul and speech pure, a healthy long life is in store for him," he added. This sprightly centenarian gives lectures, writes articles, is a consultant and walks around comfortably with a walking stick. India 's senior most citizen's zest for life is infectious: "I have more to do in my life." His grand-daughter (who'd rather remain unnamed) says, "Dada was born on Ram Navami...

King Was Dhritarashtra But Decisions Were Made By Duryodhana – We See This With Many Modern Governments

The statement "King Was Dhritarashtra But Decisions Were Made By Duryodhana – We See This With Many Modern Governments" draws a parallel between the ancient Indian epic, the Mahabharata, and contemporary political dynamics. This analogy can be expanded to explore how the de facto power structures often differ from the official or de jure leadership in modern governance. Here’s an expanded analysis: The Context of the Mahabharata In the Mahabharata, Dhritarashtra is the blind king of Hastinapura. Despite holding the throne, he is heavily influenced by his son, Duryodhana. Duryodhana's ambitions and decisions drive the kingdom’s policies, leading to significant conflict and ultimately the great war of Kurukshetra. Modern Governments and Shadow Leadership 1. Figurehead Leaders and Actual Decision-Makers Definition: In many modern governments, the official leader (such as a president or prime minister) may not hold the real power. Instead, advisors, cabinet members,...

Sri Narayana Guru Teachings

Sri Narayana Guru (1854 – 1928) was a saint and social reformer and he changed the fabric of Kerala society. Here are some his teachings from Atmopadesa Satakam. Wise men know that there is only Knowledge, so they remain one with it and do not struggle. For them the truth to be known is here and now. Those who do not know their secret think of it as an unknown entity to be sought and discovered. Under that illusion they struggle and agonize themselves. Only a few see the secret of the wise. Nobody remains established forever in a state of sameness. The process of becoming is going on; and all are subjected to this beginningless sport of the Divine. When all this is known in its entirety, one becomes happy beyond measure. There is neither any death nor birth nor any manifested form of life. There are neither men nor gods nor anything of that sort there are only names and forms. Their substance is only that of a mirage in a desert and that is, for sure, no substan...

Arsha Jnana in Hinduism – Intuition of the Sage

In Hinduism, Arsha Jnana refers to the intuition of the sage. Indian epistemology acknowledges intuition as a legitimate source of knowledge. Typically, the mind acquires knowledge through the senses and organs of perception. However, under certain conditions, the mind can obtain knowledge directly, bypassing these sensory organs. The Role of the Mind and Atman The mind, being closely connected to the Atman (the soul), has the potential to reflect the Atman's glory and possess infinite knowledge. This potential is realized and unfolded through spiritual disciplines such as learning, austerity, and meditation. The Power of the Sage's Mind In the case of the rishis (sages), their minds blossom due to their dedicated practice of these spiritual disciplines. As a result, they can intuit anything they desire to know. This form of knowledge, obtained through the intuition of these sages, is termed Arsha Jnana . It is also known as pratibha-jnana (intuitive knowledge) and is often...

Ancient Temple Dedicated to Poet Kalidasa at Kendrapara in Orissa

Kalidasa, the author of the immortal classic Abhijnanashakuntalam and the greatest Sanskrit poet and dramatist, is worshipped in a century old temple at Babkarpur Village in Kendrapara in Orissa. The villagers are very well aware of the greatness of poet Kalidas, who is believed to have lived during the fourth century AD. The temple has a rock-cut idol of Kalidasa and pujas are offered daily by a Hindu priest. The Hindu Reports Noted Sanskrit researcher Dillip Dutta is fascinated with the annual ritual. "I rushed to the village to trace the unique legacy ... Initially I was under the impression that people had mistaken him to be a Hindu God and installed the idol in the temple." "But locals are well aware that they are worshipping the great Sanskrit poet. For them he is God," says Dutta, from Mugberia Gangadhar Mahavidyalaya in West Bengal's East Midnapur . The temple might have come up with the patronage of the local zamindar during the British...

Arsha Linga in Shiva Worship

Arsha Linga in Shiva worship is a significant symbol associated with the veneration practices of the rishis or sages. The term "Arsha" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Rishi," indicating its connection to ancient seers. This type of linga holds profound spiritual importance and is revered in various temples and sacred sites across India. Historical and Symbolic Significance Shivling, or Shiva Lingam, is one of the most ancient and enduring symbols of the divine in Hinduism, representing Lord Shiva. Its history stretches back thousands of years, reflecting the deep-rooted spiritual traditions of the Indian subcontinent. The worship of Shiva Lingam symbolizes the formless nature of God, transcending human attributes and limitations. The linga itself is an aniconic representation, which means it is a symbolic form rather than a literal depiction of the deity. Types of Shiva Lingas In Shiva worship, lingas are categorized into two primary types: Cala (Movable): Thes...

Artha In Hindu Epistemology

In Hindu epistemology, ‘artha’ holds a nuanced and multifaceted significance. The term, derived from Sanskrit, broadly translates to "meaning," "purpose," or "object," but within the context of epistemology, it specifically refers to the objects apprehended by the sense organs. These objects are integral to the process of knowledge acquisition (pramāṇa) and are closely associated with perception (pratyakṣa), one of the primary means of knowledge. Detailed Explanation Etymology and General Meaning : The word 'artha' comes from the root ‘ṛ,’ meaning to reach or to attain. It implies something that is sought after or an objective that is pursued. In a broader sense, it encompasses meanings like wealth, utility, and purpose. Epistemological Context : Within Hindu epistemology, artha specifically refers to the tangible and perceptible objects that are apprehended by the sense organs. These sense organs include the eyes (sight), ears (hearing), nose (sme...

Artha – Meaning of Words, Phrases, and Sentences

The Sanskrit word ‘artha’ is commonly interpreted as ‘meaning,’ referring to the meaning of words, phrases, and sentences. In rhetorical works, the ‘artha’ of a word can be categorized into three types: vachyartha (direct meaning), lakshyartha (implied meaning), and vyangyaartha (alluded meaning). Vachyartha (Direct Meaning): The direct or literal meaning of a word or phrase is referred to as vachyartha. An example of vachya artha is the sentence ‘gam anaya,’ which translates to ‘Bring the cow.’ Here, the meaning is straightforward and unambiguous. Lakshyartha (Implied Meaning): The implied meaning goes beyond the literal interpretation and suggests an additional, often context-dependent, meaning. For instance, in the sentence ‘kalingah sahasikah,’ which means ‘the Kalinga is adventurous,’ the word ‘Kalinga’ literally refers to the country. However, by implication, it is understood to mean a citizen of that country, indicating that a person from Kalinga is adventurous. Vyangyaartha (...

Artha Panchaka – The Five Truths in Sri Vaishnavism

Sri Vaishnavism, rooted in the Vishishtadvaita Vedanta Darshana, is a major philosophical and devotional tradition within Hinduism. This school of Vedanta was systematized by the revered theologian and philosopher Ramanuja (1017-1137 CE) and further developed by his followers. A key aspect of spiritual practice in Sri Vaishnavism is the knowledge of ‘Artha Panchaka’ or the Five Truths. These truths are considered essential for the sadhaka (spiritual aspirant) or mumukshu (seeker of liberation) to understand and internalize for a proper perspective on sadhana (spiritual practice). The Five Truths are as follows: Prapya (That which is to be obtained) : This refers to Ishvara or God, the ultimate goal and object of devotion. Praptir (One who obtains) : This is the jiva or individual soul, the aspirant seeking union with God. Upaya (The means of achieving God) : These are the methods or practices that facilitate the attainment of God. Praptivirodhi (That which obstructs attainment of God) ...

Book: The Mahabharat Re-Imagined

The Mahabharat Re-Imagined written by Trisha Das and published by Rupa Publications is a collection of scenes from the Mahabharata and they have been interpreted by the author based on her level of thinking and imagination. One of the reasons for the universal and eternal appeal of the Mahabharat is that it allows a reader the freedom of interpretation and to suggest an explanation or criticize a character’s behavior. Trisha Das imagines how her Draupadi in Mahabharata would have behaved, if she was asked to marry the five Pandava brothers. 'Do you ask that my body, worshipped by my father's subjects and untouched by any man, now succumb to five men? Draupadi waved her hands wildly as she inched closer to Kunti, her shrill voice resounding off the walls, 'I would rather jump into the river and drown myself. At least I would die a princess, not a prostitute.' The author has taken such liberties with many scenes in the Mahabharata. Some of her other im...

Arthapatti in Hindu Philosophy – Postulation

In Hindu philosophy, 'arthapatti' is a concept referring to knowledge obtained through an established fact or postulation. It is one of the methods recognized by various Indian philosophical systems, or darshanas, to ascertain valid knowledge. While the means to acquire knowledge can range from three to six, the Purva Mimamsa system uniquely identifies and accepts six methods, the most among these philosophies. Definition and Explanation 'Arthapatti' or 'postulation' is the second-to-last in the Purva Mimamsa series of means to knowledge. It is defined as the necessary supposition of an unperceived fact that alone can explain a phenomenon requiring elucidation. For example, if it is observed that a man is fasting during the day yet continues to gain weight, reconciling these two facts—fasting and gaining weight—demands an explanation. The most plausible supposition is that the man eats at night. This form of reasoning is what 'arthapatti' entails. Import...

A Comparison Between the Teachings of Sant Kabir and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu

Sant Kabir and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu were influential spiritual leaders in India who significantly impacted their respective religious traditions. Though they lived in different regions and times, their teachings share commonalities and contrasts that highlight the diversity within Indian spiritual thought. Sant Kabir (1440–1518) Background: Kabir was a mystic poet and saint of the Bhakti movement, believed to have been born in Varanasi, India. His teachings were expressed in simple, straightforward vernacular, making them accessible to common people. Kabir is often associated with the Nirguna Bhakti tradition, which emphasizes devotion to a formless, impersonal God. Core Teachings: God and Spirituality : Kabir's God is nirguna (without form or attributes). He rejected idolatry and rituals, advocating for a direct, personal connection with the divine. Emphasized the importance of the inner spiritual experience over external religious practices. Religious Unity : Kabir criticized the...

Meera – Serial based on Meerabai on NDTV Imagine

NDTV Imagine will be soon telecasting a serial based on Meera Bai – a young Rajput princess whose love and devotion to Lord Krishna made her give up everything and thus elevated her to the status of a saint. The devotional songs Meerabhai had created in praise of Lord Krishna are considered to be the best Krishna Bhakti Bhajans and it continues to draw millions towards Krishna . The television serial Meera is produced by Sagar Arts. It is popularly believed that young Meera was just four years of age, she found herself to be deeply drawn towards Lord Krishna. As she grew older, her desire to be with her Lord grew more intense and she resolved to be committed to him forever. Despite being forced into marriage with another man (Prince Bhoj Raj), she defied the social norms and continued to worship Lord Krishna as her lover. The characters in Serial Meera will be essayed by a new generation of actors: Young Meera – Aashika Bhatia Meera’s mother (Veer Kunwari) – Gauri Harm...

Religious Life of the Aryans

The religious life of the Aryans, often referred to as Aryanism, was characterized by a rich tapestry of rituals and beliefs deeply embedded in their daily and spiritual practices. Central to their religion were yajnas and yagas (sacrifices) , which frequently included animal sacrifices. These rituals were primarily performed to achieve worldly gains such as longevity, wealth, progeny, or a place in heaven. Deities and Beliefs The Aryans practiced a form of henotheism, where they believed in one supreme God but also worshiped several deities. The most notable deities included: Indra : Often hailed as the king of gods and the god of thunder and war. Mitra : Associated with friendship and contracts. Varuna : The god of cosmic order and waters. Vishnu : Initially a minor deity but later worshipped as a major god. These deities were often eulogized in the mantras of the Rig Veda , the oldest of the Vedic texts. The Rig Veda contains hymns that highlight the praise and glorification of the...

Hindu Temple Tour and Wedding Pujas to Help Singles Find Life Partners

If you are a bachelor and not able to get married or if you are a parent of a son or daughter with marriage related problems like delay in wedding then Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation has just created a wedding spiritual package – a tour of Hindu temples in Tamil Nadu that specialize in wedding poojas. There are numerous temples in Tamil Nadu where it is believed that if unmarried people offer their prayers they get married soon. Devout Hindus can conduct pujas at 11 temples in Tamil Nadu that are believed to help in solving marriage related problems. It is popularly believed that by praying and offering pujas at Thiruvidanthai, Mudichur, Thirumanan­ch­eri, Thirucherai, Madurai , Thiruvengadam, Thirukarukavur, Thiruveezhimizhalai, Nallur Kalyanasundareswarar, Nachiyar Koil and Oppiliappan Koil people find solutions to their marital worries. ExpressBuzz reports The service would leave on Friday evening, starting July 3, from the city and will drop the devotees ...

Political Life of Aryans

The political structure of Aryan society was characterized by a distinctive organization where people lived in groups, each electing its own ruler or king. This system underscored a form of proto-democratic governance where leadership was initially based on selection rather than inheritance. Over time, however, the nature of kingship evolved, and the office of the king became hereditary. This transition marked a significant shift in the political dynamics, as leadership passed from one generation to the next within the same family, solidifying the power and influence of certain dynasties. Kingship and Administration The Aryan kings, although vested with significant authority, were not autocrats. They sought the guidance of wise elders, who played a crucial role in administration. These elders, often seasoned in governance and warfare, provided counsel to the king, ensuring that decisions were made with consideration of collective wisdom and experience. This advisory role helped maintai...

Digital Art Pictures of Hindu Gods and Goddesses – Online Gallery

Digital Art Pictures of Hindu Gods and Goddesses with Shabda mantras and Beeja mantras in Devanagari is created by Rajesh Srivatsa. The present set of ten images are based on Agni Durga, Bhadra Ganesh, Ganesha, Karyasiddhi Hanuman, Krishna, Naga, Narasimha, Shiva, Surya and Varaha. The symbols, colors and details used in the images are taken from both the Puranic and Tantric scriptures. The images are available for sale and you can find more details about the images and buy them here. (the website is no longer functional) The online gallery is owned by Raghavendra Reddy. The images are copyrighted to Rajesh Srivatsa.

Bhagavad Gita now available in rare Rajbangshi Language Spoken in Nepal

Rajbangshi Language is spoken by some communities living in Eastern Nepal and northern parts of West Bengal in India . It is estimated that around 300,000 people speak the Rajbangshi. The sacred Hindu scripture Bhagavad Gita has now been translated into Rajbangshi Language by Pawan Rajbanshi, a journalist from Jhapa in eastern Nepal . Earlier the people who speak Rajbongshi Language used to read the Bhagavad Gita in Nepali, Bengali, Hindi or English. This new translation will enrich the Rajbongshi Language and take the Bhagavad Gita to more common people in the community. Rajbanshis mainly live in Jhapa, Morang and Sunsari in Eastern Nepal and in some parts of West Bengal . You May Also Like To Read Bhagavad Gita and Wealth Creation Download Bhagavad Gita in Tamil Download Bhagavad Gita in Hindi Download Bhagavad Gita in English with commentary by Swami Chinmayananda

Life and Culture of the Aryans

The Rig Veda provides a wealth of information about the life and culture of the Aryans, offering insights into their social, economic, and religious practices. Economic Life Agriculture and Dairy Farming: The Aryans primarily lived by agriculture and dairy farming. Barley (yava) was their chief food grain, indicative of their agrarian lifestyle. They also cultivated wheat, rice, and other grains, suggesting a varied agricultural practice. Dairy farming was significant, with cattle being the primary domesticated animals. Sheep, goats, and horses were also common possessions, highlighting the importance of animal husbandry in their economy. Food and Drink: Their diet included milk, curds, ghee, and flour, reflecting a reliance on dairy products. They also consumed soma juice, a ritualistic drink, and sura, a type of liquor, although the latter's consumption was condemned. Meat-eating was not uncommon, indicating a diet that included animal protein. Trade and Commerce: Cows and goods ...

Meaning Of The Word Arya In Hinduism

In Hinduism, the word "arya" has a rich and multifaceted meaning. Traditionally, it denotes a person who is noble, honorable, and cultured. The term originates from the Sanskrit root "ṛ," which means "to rise" or "to uphold," symbolizing qualities of righteousness and nobility. Various Connotations of "Arya" in Hinduism: Noble and Cultured Individual: "Arya" is often used to describe someone who is refined, cultured, and possesses noble qualities. It is an acknowledgment of their adherence to dharma (moral and ethical duties) and their pursuit of a virtuous life. Spiritual and Ethical Virtue: In the context of spiritual and ethical discussions, an "arya" person is one who follows the path of righteousness and exhibits virtues such as truthfulness, compassion, and humility. This aligns with the broader Hindu ideal of living in harmony with cosmic laws (Rta). Social and Moral Standards: The term has also been historica...

Picture Book based on Pandarpur Yatra – Wari – Pilgrimage of Joy

“Wari – Pilgrimage of Joy” by Sandesh Bhandare from Pune is a pictorial representation of the annual Pandarpur Yatra from Alandi to Lord Vitthal Temple in Pandharpur. The pilgrimage known as ‘Wari’ is undertaken in Maharashtra by millions of “Warkari” (pilgrims) and has entirely been a peoples' initiative. The book was released in English and French by Heritage India Communications Pvt Ltd. “Wari – Pilgrimage of Joy” was originally published in Marathi in 2008 and was a major success. The 147-page book in English has around 130 color photographs focusing on the daily routine of the pilgrims. Times of India reports "I had put up an exhibition of the photographs of the wari in France in March this year. There was a lot of curiosity about Indian heritage there and hence the publishers thought of publishing the book in French," Bhandare said. "The Marathi book received a very good response from the people and since our aim is to take Indian heritage...

Did The Aryans Originate In India Or Did They Migrate From Elsewhere?

The question of the origin of the Aryans has indeed been a subject of intense scholarly debate for over 150 years. The central issue revolves around whether the Aryans originated in India or migrated there from another region. Here's an expanded exploration of the various perspectives and evidence surrounding this debate: Migration from Central Asia A significant group of scholars supports the theory that the Aryans migrated to India from Central Asia. This theory, known as the Aryan Migration Theory (AMT), posits that the Aryans were originally from the steppes of Central Asia, near the Caspian Sea. Evidence supporting this includes: Linguistic Evidence : The similarity between the Indo-European languages suggests a common origin. The Vedic Sanskrit of ancient India shares significant similarities with ancient European languages such as Latin, Greek, and Lithuanian, pointing to a common ancestral language spoken by the Aryans before their dispersal. Archaeological Evidence : The s...

Upanayana Samskara for Girls – Janoi or Sacred Thread Ceremony for Women

Wearing of sacred thread, also known as Janoi, is mainly reserved for the Hindu males. Upanayana Samskara for girls and women is very rarely performed. But in Vidyamandir College in Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh, Upanayana Samskara for girls and girls wearing sacred thread (Janoi) is not a rarity. The college has in the past 13 years performed the Upanayana Samskara of as many as 25 girls. In Hinduism, the Upanayana Samskara ceremony gives a child a second birth and entitles him to study the Vedas and participate in Vedic functions. In essence, after the Janoi wearing ceremony, the child commences his journey on the road to spiritual life. Deccan Herald Reports The Kanpur-based Vidyamandir College, which has received ‘A’ grade among all Girls’ Colleges in UP, will soon be holding an upanayan samsakara ceremony in which as many as 11 girls would be provided the ‘sacred thread’ amidst chanting of vedic hymns and mantras. Speaking to Deccan Herald from Kanpur , c...

Location of Aryavarta – The Land of the Aryans

From the most ancient times, the region between the Himalayas and the Vindhya mountains, demarcated by the western and eastern seas, has been declared as the ‘Aryavarta,’ the land of the Aryans, ‘the refined and cultured people.’ This area, rich in cultural and spiritual heritage, holds a significant place in the ancient Indian texts and traditions. Black antelopes are said to roam about this land, symbolizing its purity and sanctity. It was believed to be a holy land where only people with punya (religious merit) had the privilege of being born. Geographical Boundaries The traditional geographical boundaries of Aryavarta have been outlined in various ancient texts. According to the Manusmriti, Aryavarta is the land lying between the Himalayas to the north and the Vindhya mountains to the south, and extending from the western sea (the Arabian Sea) to the eastern sea (the Bay of Bengal). This area encompasses a large part of northern and central India, including regions that are today k...

Asamprajnata Samadhi – Ultra Cognitive Samadhi in Yoga

Asamprajnata Samadhi, also known as Ultra Cognitive Samadhi, is a profound state of meditation in yoga. Here’s a more detailed and simplified explanation: What is Asamprajnata Samadhi? Asamprajnata Samadhi is a higher level of meditative state where the mind becomes completely still. This means that all the usual activities and fluctuations of the mind, like thoughts, emotions, and memories, are completely stopped. What Happens in Asamprajnata Samadhi? No Mental Activity : In this state, it seems like the mind doesn't exist at all because there are no thoughts or mental activities happening. It's as if the mind has become silent. Only Samskaras Remain : The only thing that remains are samskaras, which are deep-seated impressions or latent tendencies from past experiences. These are like subtle seeds that can influence future actions and thoughts, but in this state, even these are quiet and inactive. Why is it Called ‘Nirbija-Samadhi’? Asamprajnata Samadhi is sometimes referred ...

Jayateertha Vidyapeetha – School that Teaches Madhwa philosophy

The philosophy of Madhvacharya, based on Vedic tradition, is popularly known as Dvaita Vedanta or Tattvavada. As per Dvaita Vedanta, Lord Vishnu is Supreme and the world is real. Jayateertha Vidyapeetha, run by the Uttaradi Mutt, belonging to the Dwaita tradition founded by the 13th century Saint Madhwacharya, teaches Hindu traditions, knowledge in general, and Madhwa philosophy. Each student at Jayateertha Vidyapeetha is provided free education plus all the needs of the students are met by the school. Families of poor children are also helped financially by the school. The Vidyapeetha facilitates the students to take up SSLC exams as private candidates and also provides an opportunity for students to study (Sanskrit BA, MA etc) and write exams. C V Ramachandra writes about this unique institution in Express Buzz Jayateertha Vidyapeetha is silently inching closer to its silver jubilee year. What started as a small experiment at ‘Vidya Mandira’ in N R Colony at Banga...

Samprajnata Samadhi – Cognitive Samadhi In Yoga

Understanding Samprajnata Samadhi Definition : Samprajnata Samadhi is a state of deep, focused meditation where the object of contemplation becomes vividly clear and fully revealed to the practitioner. It is a form of cognitive samadhi, meaning it involves active awareness and cognition of the meditative object. Mental Focus : In this state, while most of the usual mental distractions and thoughts are suppressed, the awareness of the object of meditation remains very active. For example, if a practitioner is meditating on a candle flame, their mind is entirely concentrated on the flame, to the exclusion of all other thoughts. Comparison to the Definition of Yoga Yoga Sutras 1.2 : According to the Yoga Sutras by Patanjali, yoga is defined as "chittavritti-nirodha," which translates to the "suppression of the modifications of the mind." In simpler terms, yoga aims to quiet the mind and stop the constant flow of thoughts. Samprajnata Samadhi's Place in Yoga : While...

Hindu Christian Dialogue in Mumbai – another pointless exercise

Several Catholic Church and Christian websites are reporting about a dialogue between Catholics and Hindus in Mumbai on June 12, 2009. Some of the Holy Men and Saints who will be representing the Hindus include Kanchi Sankaracharya Swami Jayendra Saraswati and Sri Sri Ravisankar, Swami Vageeshananda (Ramakrishna Mission) and Dadi Janakiji (Prajapati Brahma Kumaris). The list provided by official Catholic websites also includes the name of Swami Chidananda Saraswati (who is mentioned as president, Divine Life Society, Uttaranchal. But Swami Chidanandaji attained Mahasamadhi (passed away) in August 2008. Majority of the Christians in India and Hindus have no problem and they respect each others faith. The problem is for a minority in both the communities – who are the self-proclaimed agents and defenders of the respective religions. A minority in Christian community in India still dreams of converting India into a Christian country. A minority in Hindu community opposes this...

Asanamurti in Hinduism – Image of Gods and Goddesses in the Seated Posture

The Hindu temple is an ancient institution, deeply rooted in the religious and cultural heritage of India. The images installed inside the shrines or inscribed on the walls and pillars of these temples are crafted with meticulous adherence to the rules of 'Murti Shilpa Shastra' or iconography. This ensures that the representations of the divine are both symbolically accurate and artistically precise. Such murtis or images of gods and goddesses are generally categorized based on their posture into three primary types: Sthanaka (Standing) Asana (Sitting) Shayana (Lying down) Asanamurtis The asanamurtis are images of deities depicted in various seated postures. The choice of posture is not arbitrary; each asana holds specific symbolic and theological significance, often related to the deity's attributes and the narratives surrounding them. Iconographical texts mention at least twenty different asanas, each with unique connotations and purposes. Some of the prominent asanas ...

Asauca in Hinduism: Impurity Related to Death and Birth in Family

In Hinduism, the concepts of birth and death are intrinsically linked to the idea of asauca (also spelled ashaucha or ashauca), which refers to a state of ceremonial impurity that affects not only the immediate family but also extends to near relatives. This traditional belief is deeply rooted in the dharmashastras, ancient scriptures that provide detailed guidelines on religious and moral conduct. Despite the extensive discussions in these texts, the precise reason for observing asauca remains somewhat ambiguous. Types of Asauca There are two primary types of asauca: Janmasauca : Impurity related to birth. Mritasauca : Impurity related to death. Sutaka is a general term that can refer to both forms of impurity, although it is more commonly associated with mritasauca. Duration of Asauca The period of asauca varies widely among different sources and traditions, ranging from one day to one month. Common durations include: Ten days Three days One day During this period, family members a...