--> Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts from August, 2009


Limited Edition Lord Shiva-Themed Pen from Swiss Caran d'ache Worth $15000

Swiss Caran d'ache is known for high quality and high priced writing instruments that are smart in looks and durable in performance – Swiss Quality. In 2009, a limited edition 108 fountain pens and 55 roller pens have been created by Caran d'ache to honor Hindu God, Shiva. Today, there is a huge interest and vast market for various products based Hindu Gods and other aspects associated with Hinduism. Several international brands are tapping into this unexplored market sometimes successfully and sometimes landing in trouble and controversy by hurting the religious sentiments of Hindus. This collector’s item has been created by Caran d'ache, in collaboration with the jeweler and artist, Edouard Jud. According to Caran d'ache the Shiva-themed pen is Produced entirely by hand in 800 solid silver with a distinctive somber finish, these sumptuous pieces evoke all the mystery and symbolism of the most important figure in the Shaivait tradition. Shiva, the personificatio

Parivartini Ekadasi Vrat Katha – Story of Parsava Parivartini Ekadashi

The Parsava Parivartini Ekadasi observed during the waxing phase of moon in Bhadra month is associated with incarnation of Lord Vamana of Lord Vishnu and also with sleep of Vishnu during Chatur Mas period. Parivartini Ekadasi Vrat Katha (Story) extols the glory of the legendary King Bali. King Bali was popular on earth for his honesty, compassion, justice and there was all-round prosperity in his kingdom. He made the utopia a reality. Although born into a family of Demons, King Bali was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu. His glory and power made Indra (the lord of Demi Gods) weak. Soon King Bali overthrew Indra and took over the heavenly kingdom. Indra took refuge at the feet of Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu took the form of Vamana – a dwarf Brahmin and went to the palace of King Bali who was conducting a huge Yajna. King Bali was distributing gifts to all gathered there and the young Vamana asked for three steps of land. King Bali thought that three steps of land was

Hindu Temple Choir – Hindus Innovate In United States with New Form of Praying

A temple choir which is a rarity in Hinduism is being practiced in United States by Hindus. “ Om ! Ganesha Sharanam!” the choristers sang from the corner of New York Ganesha Temple in Flushing, Queens , on Ganesh Chaturthi and it marked the beginning of Hindu Temple Choir. Religious Choir is a disciplined group of people that sings as part of a religious ceremony and is mostly associated with Christian prayers in Churches. Choirs are not performed in Hindu Temples. Hindus do sing bhajans in group in temples but it is not choir as it is sung without any proper practice and is sung more out of devotion. Temple Choir is not performed in Hindu religion because Hinduism gives importance to individual worship and an individual can come and visit a temple whenever he/she feels. Hindu Bhajans are mostly solo performances. The auspicious beginning of Hindu Temple Choir was made by about 50 singers at the New York Ganesha Temple in Flushing, Queens , during the Ganesh Chatu

Sri Narayana Guru Jayanti

The 19th century sage and social reformer, Sri Narayana Guru, a member of the Ezhava community in Kerala, was revered for his deep spiritual attainment, humanistic philosophy and commitment to social reform and equality. In 2024, the date of Sri Narayana Guru Jayanti is on August 20. He taught the ideal of ‘One caste, one religion and one  God for mankind’ and stressed social self-upliftment by the lower castes to fight the caste system. Sri Narayana Guru Jayanthi is observed on the Chathayam Nakshatram day in the Malayalam month of Chingam. (August – September) Sri Narayana Guru (1854-1928) brought about revolutionary change in Kerala by organizing the lower caste people. His motto was one caste, one religion, one god – echoing the teachings of the Upanishads. Special programs and pujas are held on the day in Kerala, other parts of India and around the world by Shree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam (SNDP). You may also like to read Sri Narayana Guru T

Padma Ekadasi – Bhadrapad Shukla Paksha Padma Ekadashi

The Ekadasi fasting observed on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha of Bhadrapad month in traditional North Indian calendar is known as Padma Ekadasi. In 2024, Padma Ekadasi date as per North Indian calendar is September 14. It must be noted that the Devshayani Ekadasi observed in the month of Ashada month is also referred as Padma Ekadashi. Padma Ekadasi is observed during the Chaturmas period. This Ekadasi is also referred as Vamana Ekadasi, Parsava Parivartini Ekadashi and Jaljhlini Ekadasi. The name of this Ekadasi varies from region to region. But the legend associated with this Ekadasi remains the same. It is said that Lord Vishnu who is sleeping during the Chaturmas period changes his sleep position on this Ekadashi day. All the usual fasting rules associated with Ekadasi fasting is observed on the day. Some people opt for a strict complete fast.

Scientists Attempt to Find Sanjeevani Herb of Ramayana

In the Ramayana, Lord Hanuman carried the mountain with the Sanjeevani Herb to save the life of Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Ram, who was struck and rendered unconscious by the arrow of Indrajit, son of Ravana. For thousands of years, scientists, Ayurveda practitioners and common people, have been trying to identify the exact Sanjivani Herb that brought back Lakshmana to consciousness. Sanjeevani literally means something that offers life. Now a group of scientists from Bangalore have zeroed in on two plants grown in the Western Ghats , Aravali and the Vindhyas, which could be the Sanjivani herb that saved the life of Lakshman. Kalyan Ray writes in Deccan Herald A fern Selaginella bryopteris and an orchid Flickingeria fimbriata, could be the potential species representing Sanjeevani, said researchers from the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bangalore and College of Forestry , Sirsi. “S.bryopteris is known to offer protection against heat shoc

The story of Sage Dadhichi and Vajrayudha - Dadeechi Rushigalu and Narayana Varma Japa

This article is a guest post and is written by Sri Narahari Sumadhwa. He has used Telugu names of Hindu saints and gods. It is presented without editing and I have only added the popular names of Saints in braces. Dadeechi Rushigalu (Saint Dadhichi) was born on Bhadrapada Shudda Ashtami. The day observed as Dadeechi Jayanti . Sage Dadhichi is considered in the Puranas as one of our earliest ancestors and he shines in this great country as the illustrious example of sacrifice for the sake of the liberation of the suffering from their distress. No sacrifice is too great for the noble-minded in this world. During Krta Yuga, there was a daitya (demon) named Vritrasura. He, associated by Kalakeyas, was attacking Devataas (demi gods) and people were made to suffer a lot. Devatas (demi gods) were losing their battle against Daityaas. At that time they went to Lord Brahma, who took them to Srihari (Lord Vishnu), who recommended them to make a weapon to destroy Vritrasur

Sunia Festival in Odisha

Sunia is observed in the Bhadarva month in Orissa and is considered to be the traditional New Year in Odisha (Oriya New Year) by some communities. The day is observed as Bamana Janma day or Vaman Jayanti – the day when Lord Vishnu appeared as Vamana. In 2024, the date of Sunia festival is September 6. Sunia festival was observed mainly by Rajas and Zamindars. It is the day when they renewed the lease on the land and water body etc. The one-year lease of various types used to begin on the day. Farmers and citizens also used to pay the tax on this day to the rulers. But with the abolishment of Zamindari system in India , Sunia festival has no relevance and is ignored by majority of the people. The festival is of great importance in Puri for the Orissa royalty associated with the Puri Jagannath Temple . Thousands of people are invited to the Puri Palace and a Mahaprasad ceremony is held on the day.

Thoughts of a Hindu Soldier in the United States Army

A devout Hindu, Rajiv Sriram Srinivasan, aged 23, is a Lieutenant in the United States Army. In an essay competition conducted by Hindu American Foundation, Rajiv shared his thoughts on the identity crises he faced as being a man of Hindu faith believing in the peaceful coexistence of all beings and at the same time the need to patriotically serve United States as an army officer. Rajiv’s essay is highly inspirational and touches the core teachings of Sanatana Dharma. Rajiv is also the founder of the non-profit Beyond Orders that connects soldiers in war zones with NGOs in the United States to meet the humanitarian needs of the Iraqi and Afghani people. Here are some excerpts from the essay of Rajiv Sriram Srinivasan titled My Battle Within: The Identity Crisis of a Hindu Soldier in the US Army. It was selected as the first prize winner in the age 23-28 category of HAF’s competition. As I dawn my body armor, grab my weapon, and prepare to lead my platoon of 32 soldier

Ganesh Chaturthi Nirmalya Segregation and Flower Recycling to make Natural Holi Colors in Pune

Hundreds of kilos of flowers are used for puja and decoration during Ganesh Chaturthi festival. As part of eco-friendly Vinayaka Chaturthi celebrations in Pune, e-coexist, an environmental organization, is going to recycle the flowers used during Ganesh Chaturthi festival to make colors natural colors for Holi festival. Ganesh Chaturthi Nirmalya Segregation project of E-coexist One of the biggest outputs of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival is the tonnes of 'nirmalya' - the offerrings collected during the immersion. These offerings are made of several items : flower garlands, fruits, coconuts, spices, honey and camphor. While most of the offerings themselves are made of natural items, they come wrapped in plastic bags, plastic boxes or glass bottles. Traditionally, these items were meant to be immersed with the Ganesh idols, as an offering back to nature. However, since immersion of these on large scale is bound to cause problems, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PM

Puzzle Activity Book and Online Games for Children – Where Is Hanuman?

'Where’s Hanuman' published by Penguin Books India (Imprint – Puffin Children Books) is an illustrated book for children based on the Ramayana. The book contains puzzle scenes and activities starting from the wedding of Lord Ram and Mata Sita. The puzzles are based on Exile of Lord Ram, Kidnapping of Sita, Coronation of Bali, Searching and Finding Sita, Building Bridge , Attacking Lanka, Killing Ravana and the return by Pushpaka Vimana to Ayodhya. The activity book is meant for children to learn about the adventures of Hanuman and Ramayana in an engaging and exciting way. Where Is Hanuman is written by By Alister Taylor and Chris Woods and is illustrated By Benjamin McClintic The official website of Where Is Hanuman has some interesting online games for children. You can play the online games here .

Mukta Bharan Saptami

Mukta Bharan Saptami is observed in the Bhadrapad month in North India . In 2024, the date of Mukta Bharan Saptami is September 10. It is observed on the seventh day of the waxing phase of moon in Bhadra month. This unique ritual which falls during the Shukla Paksha of the month is important to some Hindu communities. Doobali Satham and Uma Maheshwar Puja are also observed on the day. Saptami Vrat is generally dedicated to Lord Surya.

Rishi Panchami in Gujarat

Rushi Pancham, or Rishi Panchami, is a unique ritual observed by farmers and women in Gujarat on the fifth day of the waxing phase of moon in Bhadrapad month (August - September). Rishi Panchami 2024 date is September 8.  As per Hindu tradition, women are not supposed to perform any religious ritual or visit temples during menstrual period. If a woman happens to break the rule, then she can perform the Rishi Pancham ritual and absolve the sin. In some Hindu communities, there is a belief that during menstrual period, a woman should not touch anyone or any vessel. Legend has it that a woman who did not stick to this rule was born as a dog in her next birth. A holy saint who realized that the dog was a woman in her earlier birth, asked the owners of the dog to perform Rishi Panchami vrat so that the woman can escape from pain and rebirth. The couple performed the Vrat and the woman got moksha. Women fast on the day, which falls on the fifth day of Shukla Paksha of

Helicopter Services for Manimahesh Yatra

Mani Mahesh Yatra is an annual pilgrimage to Manimahesh Lake and Kailash Peak in the Bharmaur Region of Chamba District in Himachal Pradesh. The yatra begins on Sri Krishna Jayanti and ends on Radha Ashtami. The official yatra is only for a fortnight in August/September. Now the Chamba District administration has started helicopter services to Manimahesh Lake for those who would like to avoid the tough 14-km trek. The Helicopter ferries devotees between Bharmour, the base camp of the Manimahesh pilgrimage, and Gauri Kund, which is one kilometer away from the Lake . The Manimahesh Lake is located at an altitude of 13,500 feet. The water of the Manimahesh Lake is believed to be holy and pilgrims take a holy dip and pray to the reflection of the Kailash Peak on the Lake . There is also a four-faced Shiva Lingam installed near the lake.

Bali Tritiya In Odisha In Bhadra Month

Bali Tritiya is observed on the third day, or Tritiya, of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) of the Bhadra month in Orissa. In 2024, the date of Bali Tritiya is September 6. Bali Tritiya fasting is observed by married women and is dedicated to Lord Shiva (Maheshwara) and Goddess Parvati (Uma). Images of the divine couple are made using sand and worshipped on the day. Bali Tritiya is quite similar to the Hartalika Teej vrat observed on the same day in other parts of India . As per the Padma Purana, Goddess Parvati observed Bali Tritiya Vrat to get Lord Shiva as her husband. The intense rituals and tapas performed by Goddess Parvati softened the heart of Lord Shiva who was in terrible anger over the death of Sati. Another popular legend associated with the Bali Tritiya ritual suggest that Lord Ram had performed the worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati from images made from sand and asked for their blessings before going into war with Ravana. In a

Eco-friendly Ganesh Idols from Alum or Fitkari

People from all walks of life are joining into create awareness about the need to use eco-friendly Ganesh idols for Ganesh Chaturthi puja and make a positive difference. Some people are coming forward with unique solutions to Plaster of Paris idols and one such innovative idea is the making of Ganapati Idols using Alum. This unique solution which also helps in cleaning water was put forth by Civil engineer Ramesh Kher from Pune. Large quantities of Alum, or Fitkari, (aluminum sulfate) are used clean portable water in India . Aluminum sulfate along with another chemical called sodium aluminate is pumped into lakes to control algae growth. The growth of algae is considered to be one of the main reasons behind murky and smelly water bodies. Ramesh Kher from Pune who has come up with the idea suggests the Alum Ganesha idols will help in protecting and saving the rivers and lakes. The main idea here is to make use of the Ganesh idol immersion environment friendly

Research on Historical Places Associated with Ramayan in Sri Lanka

Ramayana Trail Executive Committee associated with the Ministry of Tourism Sri Lanka is conducting extensive research to unravel the places associated with Ramayan in Sri Lanka . They have also got a website exclusively dedicated to the Ramayana Research in Sri Lanka . Ramayana Trail Executive Committee have identified around 18-places associated with Ramayan. Some of the places identified are Cobra Hooded Cave the place where Mata Sita was held captive. Rawan Ella cave, Nala Sethu, Molagoda etc are some of the places identified. You can find details of the Historical places associated with Ramayan identified so far in Sri Lanka here at the official website of Ramayana Trail Executive Committee – Ramayana Research You may also like to read Ramayana Related Sites in Sri Lanka

Aja or Annada Ekadasi Vrat Katha – Story of Aja and Annada Ekadashi

Aja, or Annada Ekadasi , is observed during the waning phase of moon (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Bhadrapad in North India . The corresponding period in other regions is the Krishna Paksha of Shravan month. Aja Ekadasi Vrat Katha was narrated to Yudhishtira by Lord Krishna. The story of Annada Ekadashi is associated with the famous king Harischandra. King Harischandra was famous for his truthfulness and honesty. Once Sage Vashista praised the truthfulness of Raja Harischandra but Sage Vishwamitra was not ready to accept it and he decides to test King Harischandra. Vishwamitra vows to prove that Harischandra also lies. As a result of Vishwamitra’s tests, King Harischandra had to give up his kingdom and family and had to take refuge in Kashi. He becomes an undertaker in Kashi. But never lies. He always upheld truthfulness and proper code of conduct. One day the great sage Guatama met King Harischandra and the king narrated his sad tale to him. Sage Gautama advised Kin

Maheshwaram Ganesha – Largest Silver Ganesh Idol in the World

Episode Silver store in Lower Parel in Mumbai has created 11 Silver Ganesh idols which are five feet high and 4.5 feet in width making them the largest and tallest silver Ganesh idols in the world. The cost of this Big Silver Ganesha is 23.5 Lakh (2.35 million Indian rupees). This precious sterling silver Ganesha idol is called Maheshwaram Ganesha. It is a limited edition Ganesha Idol and only 11 pieces of this Silver Ganesha Murti will be sold worldwide. The idol will be unveiled on August 18, 2009 at the High Street Phoenix Store as part of the Ganesh Chaturthi Festival. Mid-day.com reports The Lord is seated, with a conchshell, the Bhagvad Gita, and a lotus in his hands. His vahan, the mouse, moves around him playfully, and is depicted in multiple positions around him. His crown is embedded with emeralds, while the ornaments are crafted using rubies and other semi-precious stones. For Deepak Whorra, MD and Head Designer at Episode, considers the Maheshwaram Ganesha on

Kaliyadalan Ekadasi – Kalia Dalana Ekadashi

Kaliyadalan Ekadashi, also known as Kaliyadaman Ekadasi, is observed in Odisha during the Krishna Paksha of Bhadra month (Bhadrapad). The corresponding Ekadasi observed in other regions is known as Aja Ekadasi, or Annada Ekadashi . This Ekadasi observed in Orissa is associated with the Krishna and Snake Kaliya episode. In 2024, the date of Kalia Dalana Ekadasi is August 29/August 30. Snake Kaliya had poisoned the water of Yamuna making it unfit for drinking. All the animals and birds that drank the water of Yamuna died. Lord Krishna intervened and subdued Kaliya and freed Yamuna from his clutches. Kaliya left Yamuna and the water became poison free. Kaliyadalan Ekadasi is observed in remembrance of this divine event. On the 11th day of the Bhadra month, Kaliya Dalan Vesha is observed in Puri Jagannath Temple .

Thoughts on Sri Krishna Jayanti

There is a Higher Power pulsating in us. It is the light of intelligence. It illuminates the thoughts and feelings in us. The light illuminating all these faculties is one and the same in all. It is represented as Sri Krishna. Krishna is infinite wisdom. When everybody is sleeping in the prison of his Ego, when the sense organs are all asleep, the mysterious Light shine forth during meditation and in that darkness the Blue Boy of Brindavan is born. This Supreme Essence born as a mass of Beauty, Music and Joy, dazzling in Wisdom, noisy with Laughter, ever a Master of Circumstances, a King of Events, frisking about in life’s melancholy contentions, meeting challenges with daring and confidence, at once a Hero and a Child all rolled in one – this is the perfect God-Man, the Eternal Child of Brindavan. Swami Chinmayananda (Source – Excerpts from one of Swami Chinmayananda’s Sri Krishna Jayanti discourse) We take refuge in Thee – who art avowed to Truth, who art the Abo

On Hinduism and Atheism

Hinduism was never uncomfortable with Atheism and in fact it is perhaps the only religion that has accepted a fully developed school of thought supporting atheism. The Carvaka philosophical school rejected the notion of karma, moksha, the authority of the sacred scriptures including the Vedas, and the immortality of the self. The Carvaka School of Thought only recognizes direct perception (anubhava) as the true means of knowledge (pramana). While atheism negates the existence of God, Hinduism sees God in all animate and inanimate. In fact Hinduism sees atheism also as a path to reach the Supreme Knowledge. Prakash Shesh, a management consultant, writes in Times of India Hinduism — the religion of a large majority of Indians — officially accepts that atheists can continue to be Hindus. India has produced many towering personalities who did not believe in God. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, despite his traditional upbringing, was an avowed nonbeliever. The Indian atheist list w

Annada Ekadasi

Annada Ekadasi, also known as Aja Ekadashi, is observed during the waning phase of moon (Krishna Paksha) in August/September. Annada Ekadasi 2024 date is August 29 (smarta) and August 30 (vaishnav). In North India , it is observed during the Krishna Paksha of Bhadrapad month. In other regions, the corresponding month is Shravan. It is believed that those observing this Ekadasi will be redeemed of sins. It is believed that King Harishchandra got back his kingdom, dead son and family after observing Annada Ekadasi. It was Saint Gautama who asked the honest king to observe the particular Ekadasi so that he will be able to overcome all the difficulties in life. The king got back all that he had given to Sage Vishwamitra. It is said that those observing Annada Ekadasi fasting is sure to be freed from all the sins. There are no separate rules for fasting on the day. People avoid eating grains and beans on the day. Ekadasi fasting is observed on the 11 th day of a lu

Chandra Sashti Vrat – Chand Chhath

Chandra Sashti, or Chand Chhath, is observed on the sixth day of the dark fortnight (waning phase of moon) of Bhadrapada month (August – September). In 2024, the date of Chandra Shasti Vrat is August 24. A fast is observed on Chandra Sashti Vrat day by unmarried women. Pujas and prayers are offered on the day to Chandra, the Hindu moon God. The day is of great importance in Rajasthan. The fast on Chandra Shasti Vrat begins in the morning and ends after seeing the moon. Water is offered to Chandra. The Vrat is performed to get a good husband and for a happy and prosperous life. During the same period, Hala Shasti or Hal Shashti is observed. This is dedicated to Lord Balram, the elder brother of Lord Krishna.

Hindu Glass Temple in Malaysia - Arulmigu Sri Raja Kaliamman Temple

Three hundred thousand pieces of colored glasses, namely blue, red, yellow, green, purple and white, will give shape to the Arulmigu Sri Raja Kaliamman Temple at Jalan Tebrau in Johor Bahru State of Malaysia . And when completed in October 2009, it will be the first Hindu Glass Temple in the world. Around 95 per cent of the Arulmigu Sri Raja Kaliamman temple's walls, ceiling, domes and pillars will be adorned with more than three hundred thousand pieces of colorful glasses imported from Thailand , Japan and Belgium . The estimated cost of the temple is 3 million Malaysian Ringgit. The original Arulmigu Sri Raja Kaliamman Temple was built in 1922. The temple needed a makeover and the Temple committee decided on transforming the temple into something unique. The star online writes Temple president S. Sinathambhy, who is also an art teacher, said that so far RM2mil had been spent to renovate the 87-year-old temple. He added that he conceptualize

Khudurukuni Osha in Orissa

Khudurukuni Osha is observed in Orissa on the Sundays in the month of Bhadrab (August - September) by unmarried women and girls. Also known as Khudarankuni or Khudurkuni, it is mainly observed in the coastal districts of Orissa. Goddess Maa Mangala (Durga) is worshipped on the day. Khudurukuni Osha rituals are based on the legend of a young girl named Taapoi. She had to undergo sufferings in the hands of her sister-in-laws when her brothers were on a sea journey. Therefore there is a belief that the ritual is observed by women for the safe return of their relatives (brothers) who venture into the sea. Khude Bhaja or Khuda, which is fried left out particles of rice, are offered to Goddess Durga. ‘Khudurukuni’ means one who is very eager for khuda. Other offerings that are made are Kantiali Kakudi (a type of thorny Cucumber), Lia (fried paddy), Ukuda (fried paddy sweetened by molasses) and coconut. It is said that the young girl Taapoi survived on Khuda after her brother

Sri Jayanti – Birthday Festival of Lord Krishna

Sri Jayanti is the name used to refer the birthday festival and celebrations of Lord Krishna in some regions, especially in North India . Shri Jayanti is popularly known by the name of Sri Krishna Jayanti or Janmashtami. In 2024, Sri Jayanti date is August 27. In North India , Shri Jayanti is observed on the eighth day of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of moon) in Bhadrapad month. It must be noted that Sri Krishna Jayanti is observed on two different days . This is based on different calculations followed by the various Hindu regional calendars. In some regions, Sri Krishna Jayanti is observed on August 26, 2024. Sri Jayanti celebrations reach its zenith in Mathura and Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh. Numerous rituals are observed here on the day. Apart from pujas, prayers and fasting, children appear as various characters in the legends associated with Shri Krishna. They present small dramas based on Krishna ’s life. People of the region refer to the massive celebra

Hindus in Afghanistan – Oldest Inhabitants Who Are Today Marginalized

Hindus are undoubtedly one of the oldest inhabitants of Afghanistan . Hindus are native people of the land. Some scholars are also of the view that the Vedas originated in Eastern Afghanistan . It is the land of Gandhari and Shakuni of Mahabharata. Today, majority of Afghan Hindus have been wiped out. The marginalization of Hindus began in the medieval period and continues to the present era. They were mercilessly butchered or forced to forgo Hindu tradition. And those that were able to escape persecution have taken refuge in India , United States and countries in Europe . Those Hindus that are surviving in Afghanistan are second class citizens. They are required to pay a poll tax and face numerous other impediments in day-to-day life. Reza Mohammadi Writes about the Hindus in Afghanistan in the Guardian.co.uk Some excerpts from the article …the growth of religious fundamentalism has now pushed the Hindus out of government offices, forcing them into the bazaar

Largest Solar Steam System in the World at Shirdi Sai Baba Temple

Shirdi Sai Baba Temple at Shirdi in Maharashtra has installed the world’s largest solar steam system. The solar powered cooker has the capacity to cook food for 20,000 people. This helps in reduction of green house gases – solar energy technology is used instead of diesel, cooking gas and firewood and produces zero emissions. The solar cooking project which is environment friendly – reduces pollution and is cost saving. The Hindu reports By installing the solar powered cooker, at a cost of Rs 1.33 crore, the organiser can cook food for 20,000 people per day incurring cheaper cost on fuel. The Centre has granted a subsidy of Rs 58.40 lakh so that Sri Sai Baba Sansthanan can save every year one lakh kg of LPG, estimated to cost Rs 20,00,000. The steam system at Shirdi generates about 3,500 kg of steam every day. The system will generate steam for cooking even in the absence of electricity to run the feed water pump for circulating water in the system. Tirupat

Mahabharata on Twitter – A Narrative Experiment with Tweets

Mahabharata is one of the longest epic - 100,000 stanzas – and is one of the most important holy scriptures in Hindu religion. Twitter is a short messaging service – a tweet can only 140 characters – that works over multiple networks and devices. Mahabharat, which is an ocean, is being taken drop by drop and is slowly being collected in Twitter. The person behind this unique literary attempt is Chindu Sreedharan, a Kerala-born journalist doing media research in England . According to him, Mahabarata on Twitter is a retelling of the Mahabharata – an experiment into if/how a narrative can be developed as tweets. The narrative used on twitter is mainly inspired by the novel Bhimsen by Prem Panickar. Mahabharata on Twitter is seen through the eyes of Bhima. A single message on twitter should be limited to 140 characters. You can read it on the internet or on your mobile. Here are few tweets A tweet - We had all lived in the forest. Us five, Mother, father Pandu