The internal strength of Hinduism is so powerful that it was able to survive Islamic invasion for centuries. Apart from millions of Hindus who sacrificed their lives to uphold Dharma, it is the universal teachings and freedom of belief and independent character that helped Hinduism fight the Islamic invaders. This article explores the multifaceted resilience of Hinduism, examining its philosophical, social, and cultural tenacity that allowed it to endure through periods of extreme adversity. 1. Philosophical Resilience At the heart of Hinduism is a vast and flexible philosophical framework that embraces a diversity of thoughts and practices. The Hindu philosophy is deeply rooted in texts such as the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and various Puranas, which offer profound insights into life, the universe, and the nature of the divine. This inclusivity and adaptability enabled Hinduism to absorb and reinterpret external influences rather than being overwhelmed by them. Syncretism : Hi...

Nag Hill Caves at Pushkar in Rajasthan is a favorite spot for sadhus (Saints) during the Pushkar Fair. There are caves in Nag Hill in which Sage Agastya and Sage Bhartrhari is believed to have mediated for long period. These caves are occupied by saints from different parts of India and Nepal during the Pushkar fair. The Sadhus arrive here to take part in the Kartik Purnima Snan or holy dip in the Pushkar Lake on the full moon day of Kartik month (October – November). The caves are located inside the forests of Nag Hill. It is believed that Sage Bhartrhari got the boon of immortality at one of the caves in Nag Hill and he is still meditating in one of them. The cave Sage Agastya is a large one and is deep inside the forests. Another cave here is the Jalmahadhi cave in which Lord Parashuram is believed to have stayed for several years. Another unique sport at Nag Hill is the Adhar Shila passing under this stone will attain peace. The hills are located a kilo...

Osho (Rajneesh) and Meher Baba were two influential spiritual leaders of the 20th century, each with a distinct approach to spirituality and philosophy. Their teachings, while sharing some common ground, diverge significantly in their methods, goals, and underlying philosophies. Osho (Rajneesh) Biography: Full Name: Chandra Mohan Jain (later known as Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh and then Osho) Birth: December 11, 1931, in Kuchwada, India Death: January 19, 1990, in Pune, India Core Teachings: Meditation and Awareness: Osho emphasized the importance of meditation and mindfulness. He developed dynamic meditation techniques to help individuals achieve higher states of consciousness. Freedom and Individuality: Osho promoted individual freedom, encouraging people to break free from societal norms and traditional structures. Love and Relationships: He viewed love as an essential part of life and advocated for open relationships, seeing them as opportunities for personal growth. Rebellion Aga...

Saubhagya Sundari Vrat holds significant cultural and religious importance in various regions of India, particularly in North India, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. This observance is marked on different days depending on the lunar calendar followed in different regions. In North India, it is observed on the third day during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) of the Margashirsha month. Conversely, in other regions, such as Gujarat and Maharashtra, it falls during the Kartik month. Additionally, in North India, it's also observed during the third day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the Chaitra month. The central purpose of Saubhagya Sundari Vrat is to pray for the well-being and longevity of one's husband. Married women undertake this fast with devotion and sincerity, seeking the blessings of the divine feminine, often addressed as Mother Goddess or Saubhagya Sundari. During this Vrat, women typically observe strict fasting, abstaining from food an...

Hindus continue to be drawn to fake godmen for a variety of reasons, deeply rooted in cultural, social, and psychological factors. Here are some additional insights into why this phenomenon persists: 1. Fear of Death and Diseases Existential Angst : The fear of death and the unknown often drives people towards those who claim to have spiritual solutions and assurances of a better afterlife or protection from diseases. Health Crises : During times of health crises, such as pandemics, individuals are more likely to seek out alternative remedies and spiritual healers who promise miraculous cures. 2. Desire for Material Gains Socioeconomic Pressures : Many people face significant financial pressures and turn to godmen who promise prosperity and success through spiritual means. Quick Fixes : The allure of quick and easy solutions to financial problems makes the promises of godmen appealing, even if these promises are un...

Prabodini Ekadashi, or Dev Uthani Ekadasi, is observed on the eleventh day during the Shukla Paksha or waxing phase of moon in Kartik Month as per traditional Hindu Lunar Calendar. Lord Vishnu who was in a deep slumber during the Chaturmas period wakes up on the day. An interesting story associated with Prabodini Ekadashi is listened to on the day. There are several versions of Dev Uthani Ekadasi Vrat Katha this is one of them. Legend has it that Goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu, was unhappy with manner in which Lord Vishnu slept. Sometimes Lord Vishnu used to remain awake for days together and sometimes would sleep continuously for several days. Goddess Lakshmi then complained to Lord Vishnu about his undisciplined way of sleeping. She said that Lord Shiva, Lord Brahma, Devas and Saints visiting him are forced to wait for long period as He is sleeping for several days together. They are forced to return disappointed without having the Darshan of Lord Vishnu. ...

Lladro is a world famous Spanish Company noted for high quality porcelain figurines. Lladro during the past couple of years had released four idols (murtis) of Lord Ganesha in various forms – Veena Ganesha, Dancing Ganesha, Bansuri Ganesha and Mridangam Ganesha. Now as part of the Lladro Fall 2009 collections, all the four figurines of Lord Ganesh have been remodeled and freshly released. It is a limited edition collection and only 3000 of each Ganesh figurines are available for sale around the world. Each figurine is priced at $1900 (approximately 90,000 Indian rupees).

Here is an expanded comparison between the teachings of U.G. Krishnamurti and Osho, highlighting their philosophies, methodologies, and the contexts in which they delivered their messages. Philosophical Foundations U.G. Krishnamurti Philosophy: U.G. Krishnamurti, often referred to as the "Anti-Guru," rejected all traditional religious, spiritual, and philosophical teachings. He was critical of the concept of enlightenment and denied that there was any such thing as a permanent state of enlightenment or self-realization. Approach to Enlightenment: U.G. insisted that enlightenment is a biological process, not a spiritual one, and described it as a "calamity" that stripped away illusions rather than a blissful state. Skepticism of Teachings: He was skeptical of all teachings and dismissed the idea that any methodology or practice could lead to enlightenment. According to him, truth was not something to be taught or sought, but rather something that emerged when one ...

Hinduism is one of the world's oldest religions, with a rich tapestry of beliefs, practices, and traditions that have evolved over millennia. It is predominantly practiced in India and Nepal but has followers worldwide. Animism , on the other hand, is often considered the earliest form of religion, characterized by the belief that natural objects, natural phenomena, and the universe itself possess souls or consciousness. While animism is not a singular religion but rather a religious perspective found in many indigenous and traditional societies, it shares some conceptual similarities with Hinduism, particularly in their shared reverence for nature and the spiritual world. Core Concepts in Hinduism Dharma : This refers to the ethical and moral principles that govern an individual's conduct in society. It is a key concept in Hinduism, guiding believers in their daily lives. Karma : The law of cause and effect, where an individual's actions in this life and previous lives in...

Here is an expanded comparison highlighting the differences between Hindu priests and Christian priests, covering various aspects such as roles, responsibilities, training, attire, and more. Roles and Responsibilities Hindu Priests: Rituals and Ceremonies: Hindu priests, also known as Pujaris or Pandits, perform a variety of rituals (pujas) and ceremonies including weddings, funerals, housewarming rituals (Griha Pravesh), and festival-specific rites. Temple Services: They conduct daily worship services (Aarti), maintain temple deities, and ensure the cleanliness and sanctity of the temple. Astrological Guidance: Many Hindu priests provide astrological consultations and help in determining auspicious dates and times for significant events. Education and Counseling: They offer spiritual guidance, teach religious texts, and provide counsel on moral and ethical matters. Christian Priests: Sacraments: Christian priests, particularly in denominations like Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orth...

Here’s a detailed comparison between Shirdi Sai Baba and Sathya Sai Baba, focusing on their lives, teachings, followers, and influence. Shirdi Sai Baba (c. 1838 – 1918) Background and Early Life Birth : The exact date and place of Shirdi Sai Baba's birth are not well-documented, and his origins remain mysterious. It is widely believed that he was born around 1838. Early Life : Details about his early life are scarce. He appeared in Shirdi, a small village in Maharashtra, India, around 1858. Teachings and Philosophy Religion and Unity : Shirdi Sai Baba preached the importance of unity and tolerance between different religions. He was known for saying "Sabka Malik Ek" (One God governs all). Living a Virtuous Life : His teachings emphasized love, forgiveness, charity, contentment, and inner peace. Simple Living : He led a very simple and ascetic life, emphasizing humility and the importance of self-discipline. Miracles and Legacy Miracles : Shirdi Sai Baba is reputed to have...

Brill’s Encyclopedia of Hinduism is a five volume thematic encyclopedia, presenting the latest research on all the main aspects of the Hindu traditions in original essays written by the world’s foremost scholars on Hinduism. The first volume was released in September 2009 and the next four volumes will be released in the next four years. This encyclopedia is more scholarly in nature. Founded in 1683 in Leiden, the Netherlands, Brill is a leading international academic publisher in the Humanities and Social Sciences. About Brill’s Encyclopedia of Hinduism from flyer The Encyclopedia explicitly adopts an interdisciplinary and pluralistic approach, and in it, the term “Hinduism” is used critically in the knowledge that most of the traditions that today make up Hinduism are much older than the term itself. The Encyclopedia aims at a balanced and even-handed view of Hinduism, recognizing the tensions inherent in the academic examination of Hinduism. It emphasizes that ...

The Mother Goddess concept in Hinduism and Buddhism reflects significant differences and some similarities rooted in the cultural and religious contexts of these traditions. Here's an expanded exploration of these differences: Hinduism 1. Varied Forms and Identities: Hinduism, with its vast pantheon, includes numerous Mother Goddesses, each with distinct identities and attributes. Key Mother Goddesses include Parvati , Durga , Lakshmi , and Saraswati . Parvati : Consort of Shiva, represents fertility, love, and devotion. Durga : Warrior goddess, embodiment of shakti (power), protector against evil. Lakshmi : Goddess of wealth, fortune, and prosperity. Saraswati : Goddess of wisdom, learning, and the arts. 2. Symbolism and Role: Represent various aspects of life and the cosmos, including fertility, protection, prosperity, and knowledge. Often seen as embodiments of shakti, the divine feminine energy. 3. Worship and Rituals: Celebrated through grand festivals (e.g., Durga Puja, Laksh...

In Hinduism, the concepts of selfishness, uncontrolled passion, and wrong actions are intricately linked to the broader philosophical framework that explains human suffering. Let's delve deeper into each element and how they contribute to suffering according to Hindu teachings. Selfishness (Ahamkara) Selfishness, or Ahamkara (the ego or "I-maker"), is considered one of the primary causes of human suffering in Hindu philosophy. It leads individuals to act in ways that are centered around their own desires and interests, often at the expense of others. Key points include: Separation from the Divine : Selfishness creates a sense of separation from the divine essence (Brahman), leading to feelings of isolation and alienation. Karma : Selfish actions generate negative karma, which must be balanced in this life or future lives, perpetuating the cycle of rebirth (samsara) and associated suffering. Illusion (Maya) : It strengthens the illusion of individuality and distracts from...

Tirumala Tirupati Balaji Temple has launched a fast darshan facility at the temple known as Seegra Darshan for those who have money and do not have the patience to stand in the long queue. The cost of the new quick darshan ticket is 300 rupees and this will provide speedy access to offer worship of Lord Venkateswara. The centuries old free darshan facility still continues but the wait is long. The popular Rs 50 'darshan' facility ticket would also continue. But issuance of Archana Ananthara Darshan (AAD) tickets and Cellar Darshan tickets has been stopped from October 21, 2009. Under the new system, devotees buying Rs 300 ticket will be allowed to enter the shrine through a separate queue. It is said that the quick 'darshan' system has been introduced to put a stop to cases of recommendations from influential quarters, to provide speedy access for viewing the deity and also check the middlemen menace. I personally feel all such tickets should be sto...

The Alvars and Nayanars were two distinct but significant groups of saint-poets in South India during the early medieval period, roughly between the 6th and 9th centuries. Both groups played a crucial role in the Bhakti movement, a devotional trend that emphasized love and devotion to God as the path to salvation. Despite their shared goal of spiritual devotion, the Alvars and Nayanars had distinct characteristics, practices, and theological orientations. This essay explores their similarities and differences, highlighting their contributions to South Indian culture and religious life. Origins and Historical Context The Alvars and Nayanars emerged in a period marked by political fragmentation and the decline of centralized power in South India. The collapse of the Gupta Empire and the rise of regional kingdoms provided a fertile ground for new religious movements. Both groups were instrumental in challenging the dominance of Vedic ritualism and the hierarchical structures of Brahmanica...

Dhoop or incense is an essential part of all Hindu pujas. It is common that we rarely bother to find out how the dhoop is made or from which tree is the resin extracted. Dhoop or Incense Sticks are made from the resin extracted from Black Dammar (canarium strictum) trees. But sadly due to human greed and over exploitation this tree is on the verge of extinction in Maharashtra . Times of India writes At present, there are just five Black Dammar (canarium strictum) trees in the state," Ankur Patwardhan, head of the bio-diversity department, Garware College , told TOI. Asked the reason for this catastrophic decline in number, Patwardhan said, "The main reason is inhuman practices like cutting or burning of these trees, as these trees have good market value. Another reason is unsustainable harvesting." Patwardhan is working on a project for the re-introduction of these trees in their natural habitat. According to him, the trees grow well only in crest line areas...

Thirunageswaram Raghu Temple, or Sri Naganathaswamy Temple (Sri Raaghu Sthalam), at Thirunageswaram near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu is one of the rare temples in India dedicated exclusively to Lord Rahu one of the Navgrahas. Rahu Peyarchi is the transition of Rahu and Ketu as per astrology. Such transitions, or Peyarachi, are viewed in detail by those people who believe in astrology. Lord Raaghu (The Serpant Deity) is enshrined in the Thirunageswaram Raghu Temple . It is said that the milk that is poured on the Murti (idol) of Lord Rahu here turns light blue color. Lord Raaghu's transit from Mahara Rasi to Thanusu Rasi in anti clockwise direction and His stay in Dhanusu for 18 Months is a major astrological temple. Offering of prayers and participation in the above mentioned rituals at the lotus feet of Lord Raaghu will confer relief from sickness and evil spirits and bestow benefits. The temple informs that the transition will have bad effect on those...

In Hindu philosophy, the belief that "the body form perishes only when we have exhausted our karma" is rooted in the concepts of karma, rebirth, and the cycle of samsara (the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth). Here's an expansion on this teaching: Understanding Karma Karma refers to the law of cause and effect, where every action (mental, verbal, or physical) has consequences. In Hinduism, karma is a fundamental principle that dictates the future experiences of an individual. Good actions lead to positive results, while bad actions lead to negative outcomes. The Cycle of Samsara Samsara is the continuous cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Hindus believe that the soul (Atman) is immortal and passes through a series of births and deaths until it achieves liberation (Moksha). The nature of each reincarnation is determined by the accumulated karma from previous lives. Exhaustion of Karma The statement "the body form perishes only when we have exhausted our karma...

Hinduism, one of the world's oldest religions, offers a variety of teachings and philosophies aimed at attaining happiness, peace, and spiritual fulfillment. One of the core concepts is the idea of finding happiness by cultivating a state of neutrality and moving beyond desires. Here's an expansion on this teaching: 1. The Nature of Desire in Hinduism In Hindu philosophy, desires are often seen as the root cause of suffering. The endless pursuit of material and sensual pleasures can lead to attachment, which binds individuals to the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). The Bhagavad Gita, one of the most important texts in Hinduism, addresses the issue of desires and their impact on human happiness. In it, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to perform his duties without attachment to the results, emphasizing the importance of selfless action and detachment. 2. The Concept of Neutrality (Sthitaprajna) Neutrality, or being 'sthitaprajna' (a person of steady wisdom), is h...

Yama Dwitiya is the final day of Diwali celebrations in Karnataka. It is dedicated to Lord Yama, the Hindu God of Death. On the day brothers visit sisters and give them gifts and sisters apply a Tilak on the forehead of the brothers. Here is the Argya Mantra to Yama Dharmaraja in Kannada: Argyamantra EhyEhi maartaanDaja paashahasta yamaantakaalEKakadharaamarEsha | bhraatRudvitIyaakRutadEvapOjaam gRuhaaNa chaarGyam bhagavan namastE | Namaskara Mantra After pooja, this is the namaskara mantra to Yama and Yamune. dharmaraaja namastubhyam namastE yamunaagraja | paahi maam kinkarai: saardham sUryaputra namOstutE | yamasvasarnamastEstu yamunE lOkapUjitE | varadaa bhava mE nityam sUryaputrim namOstutu tE | This article is an excerpt from an article contributed by Narahari Sumdhawa on Yama Dwitiya You may also like to read Yama Dwitiya Legend

The Book of Lakshmi takes the reader through the mythical and historical development of the Goddess Lakshmi. Apart from telling the stories, facts and rituals associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the book also delves into the gender bias in the worship of the Hindu Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity. Written by R. Mahalakshmi, Assistant Professor at the Centre for Historical Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University , Delhi , introduces Goddess Lakshmi through a series of illustrations and short stories. The book is published by Penguin Books India. The book is divided into seven chapters: Lakshmi as the embodiment of wealth and beauty Lakshmi as the daughter of the ocean Sri Lakshmi and other deities Symbols of Lakshmi The Iconography of Lakshmi Lakshmi Festival and Worship Ashta Lakshmi Stotram Kanakdhara Stotram Sacred Mantra About the book from the Penguin Flyer Lakshmi is the goddess of all that is good—wealth (dhana), beauty (saundarya) and happiness...

Mishrakeshi is an apsara, a celestial nymph, described in ancient Hindu texts. Apsaras are known for their beauty and grace, often associated with the divine and heavenly realms. They are frequently depicted in Hindu mythology as dancers and courtesans who entertain gods and sometimes mortals. Lineage Mishrakeshi is identified as one of the daughters of Pradha. Pradha is a significant figure in Hindu mythology, often referenced in various Puranas and texts. The apsaras are typically considered to be the daughters of Pradha and the sage Kashyapa. Marriage Mishrakeshi married Raudrashva, a king from the ancient Hindu texts. Raudrashva is a descendant of the famed lunar dynasty, known for his valor and piety. The union between an apsara and a mortal, especially a king, is a recurring theme in Hindu mythology, symbolizing the connection between the divine and human realms. Progeny Mishrakeshi and Raudrashva had ten sons. The names and details of these sons vary across different texts, but ...