Basanti Puja, or Vasant Durga Puja, is observed during the Chaitra Navratri. In 2026, Basanti Puja is on March 24 and will end on March 28 There is a popular belief that Goddess Durga was mainly worshipped during the Basant or Spring Season. But it was Lord Rama who changed the Durga Puja period. Lord Ram wanted the blessings of Goddess Durga to defeat Ravana therefore he invoked Goddess Durga during Ashwin (October – November). Sri Basanti Devi Durga Puja Amantran Adhibas – March 24 Sri Basanti Devi Durga Puja Saptami Puja, Nabapatrika – March 25 Sri Basanti Devi Durga Puja Ashtami Puja, Sandhi Puja – March 26 Sri Basanti Devi Durga Puja Navami Puja – March 27 Sri Basanti Devi Durga Puja Desmipuja bisarjan – March 28 Nowadays, the Vasant Durga Puja, or Basanti Puja, is not a major festival. Therefore all the rituals associated with the Ashwin month Durga Puja are not performed in the Chaitra month. The Durga Puja in Ashwin month is also known as Akal Bo...

The Manasara , the most authoritative text on Hindu architecture, iconography, and town-planning, introduces a set of six formulae known as the 'Ayadi-shadvarga.' These formulae are pivotal in determining the dimensions of any structure, including its length, breadth, circumference, height, or thickness. The right dimensions for a structure are selected through the application of these six formulae: aya, vyaya, riksha, yoni, vara, tithi, and amsha. Explanation of the Formulae Aya : Represents the gain or profit and is considered auspicious if it is greater than Vyaya. Vyaya : Represents the loss or expenditure. The chosen dimension should ensure that Vyaya is less than Aya. Riksha : Corresponds to the twenty-seven nakshatras (lunar mansions). Each dimension is associated with a nakshatra, and auspicious nakshatras are preferred. Yoni : Indicates the eight directions (North, Northeast, East, Southeast, South, Southwest, West, and Northwest), symbolizing the natural tendencies an...

The Sidhars (also spelled Siddhars or Siddhas) of Tamil Nadu are mystical figures revered for their deep spiritual knowledge, yogic prowess, and mastery over alchemical processes. These enlightened beings are credited with performing miracles, healing ailments, predicting the future, and even achieving immortality. Rooted in the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Tamil Nadu, the Sidhars have left an indelible mark on the region's spiritual landscape. Who Are the Sidhars? The Sidhars are ascetic saints and scholars, primarily from the Tamil Siddha tradition. Their origins can be traced back to ancient Tamil culture, where they are believed to have lived around the first millennium CE. The term "Siddhar" comes from the Sanskrit word "Siddhi," meaning "perfection" or "attainment," reflecting their pursuit and achievement of extraordinary spiritual and supernatural powers. Major Sidhars Some of the most renowned Sidhars include: Agastya : Co...

As per some beliefs, Sage Agastya, one of the revered sages in Hindu mythology, is said to still reside in South India. Agastya is a legendary figure in ancient Indian texts and is considered one of the seven great sages, or Saptarishis, in Vedic tradition. He is attributed with numerous contributions to Hindu literature, including parts of the Rigveda, and is often associated with the spread of Vedic knowledge to the southern regions of India. The belief in Agastya's continued presence stems from the mystical and spiritual traditions in South India. According to these traditions, Agastya attained a high level of spiritual enlightenment, granting him eternal life. He is said to reside in a state of deep meditation in various sacred locations, including the Agastya Mala hills in the Western Ghats, which span parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. This region, often referred to as the "Abode of Agastya," is believed to be a powerful spiritual center. Stories and folklore aboun...

Haidakhan Babaji, also known as Mahavatar Babaji or Haidakhan Wale Baba, is a spiritual teacher whose teachings have influenced many seekers worldwide. His teachings, rooted in Hindu philosophy, emphasize simplicity, love, truth, and service. Below are some core aspects of his teachings: Truth, Simplicity, Love : Truth (Satya) : Babaji emphasized living a life rooted in truth. He encouraged his followers to be truthful in all aspects of their lives, as truthfulness leads to purity and spiritual growth. Simplicity (Saralata) : Leading a simple life was central to Babaji’s teachings. Simplicity in thoughts, actions, and lifestyle helps in focusing on spiritual goals. Love (Prem) : Babaji taught that love is the foundation of all spiritual practice. Unconditional love for all beings is essential for personal and collective spiritual evolution. Service (Seva) : Babaji encouraged selfless service to humanity as a pathway to spiritual development. Serving others without expecting anything in...

Goddess Jaya Durga, or Jai Durga, is one of the numerous forms of Goddess Shakti. She is mentioned as the presiding deity in two Shaktipeetahs. Jaya Durga form of Goddess Shakti is worshipped at Baidyanathdham, at Deoghar in Jharkhand , India and another is believed to be at Karnat – exact location not yet discovered. After Sati’s death, Shiva roamed around with the body of Her. Lord Vishnu realized that this never ending mourning would destroy the world and therefore to stop Shiva, Vishnu used Sudarshan Chakra to cut down the body of Sati into pieces. The places where Sati’s body parts fell are Shaktipeetahs. There are 51 Shaktipeethas. It is believed that Sati’s heart fell at Baidyanathdham and she is worshipped here as Jaya Durga. Her ears is believed to have fell at Karnat but this spot is yet to be identified and the form of Shakti worshipped here is also referred as Jaya Durga in scriptures. Jaya Durga is depicted as having dark complexion. She is three-e...

In Hinduism, several revered figures are believed to possess the ability to transcend death or live for extraordinary periods. These "deathless" or "immortal" gurus are often attributed with mystical powers and spiritual wisdom. Here are a few prominent examples: Ashwatthama : Background : Ashwatthama, a key character in the Mahabharata, is the son of Dronacharya, the royal teacher of the Kauravas and Pandavas. Immortality : According to the Mahabharata, Ashwatthama was cursed by Lord Krishna to wander the earth for 3,000 years, suffering from his wounds and shunned by society as a form of immortality. Hanuman : Background : Hanuman is a central character in the Ramayana, a devotee of Lord Rama, and is revered as a symbol of strength, devotion, and loyalty. Immortality : It is believed that Hanuman was granted immortality and continues to live on earth, helping and protecting the devout. There are numerous tales and sightings of Hanuman even in the current era. Para...

Swami Vivekananda and Sri Yukteswar Giri are two significant figures in the realm of Indian spirituality and philosophy, each with distinct contributions and teachings. Here is an expanded comparison of their teachings, highlighting both similarities and differences: Similarities Advocacy for Spiritual Realization : Both Vivekananda and Sri Yukteswar emphasized the importance of realizing one's true self and attaining higher consciousness. They believed in the potential of every individual to achieve spiritual enlightenment. Synthesis of Eastern and Western Thought : Swami Vivekananda and Sri Yukteswar Giri recognized the value in synthesizing Eastern spirituality with Western scientific and rational thought. They encouraged a holistic approach to understanding life and the universe. Promotion of Vedanta and Yoga : Both teachers were strong proponents of Vedanta and yoga. Vivekananda is particularly known for his promotion of Raja Yoga, while Sri Yukteswar emphasized the integratio...

Cheti Chand, is the Sindhi New Year and here is a collection of Cheti Chand quotes and messages. These quotations were collected from numerous sources and edited to suit the Cheti Chand day. Hope you will get ideas from these quotes to wish your friends and relatives. Let this Cheti Chand bring peace and prosperity in the lives of all with the blessings of Lord Varuna. Happy Cheti Chand! Let this be a delightful year, filled with delightful things in each of its days. Keep moving is an important lesson that Lord Varuna (God of water) teaches. Water flows unceasingly. If it stops, it becomes stagnant. Let us aim to be the free flowing pure water. Forget the past and start flowing with positive thoughts from this Cheti Chand. Happy Cheti Chand. Wish you a Happy Cheti Chand with love, peace, hope and joy for the year ahead. From this Cheti Chand let us go forward with great hope that all things will be possible and we will attain our dreams. Forget worries and mistakes and start afre...

Lahiri Mahasaya and Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa are two eminent figures in Indian spiritual traditions, each with profound teachings that have impacted countless followers. While their teachings share common elements due to their roots in Hindu spirituality, they also diverge in significant ways. Here is an exploration of the similarities and differences in their teachings: Similarities: Emphasis on Direct Experience: Both Lahiri Mahasaya and Sri Ramakrishna emphasized the importance of direct spiritual experience over theoretical knowledge. Lahiri Mahasaya encouraged his disciples to practice Kriya Yoga to achieve direct experience of the divine. Sri Ramakrishna practiced various religious paths and emphasized experiencing God through personal devotion and direct mystical experiences. Universal Approach to Religion: Both teachers promoted the idea that all religions are valid paths to the same divine truth. Lahiri Mahasaya's teachings emphasized that Kriya Yoga could be practiced ...

Ghatasthapana is an important ritual during Navratri. It literally means installing a pot which symbolizes Goddess Shakti. A Pot with image of Goddess Durga embossed on the side of it is place in the Puja room. The pot is placed on a bed of sand. This is performed on the first day of Navratri especially during Vasant Navratri in North India . The pot is filled with mud and sprinkled with cow dung. Barley seeds are sown in it. Some people also sow barley seeds on the bed on which the pot is placed. The Ghata (Pot) is installed at the auspicious time of the first day of the Navratri. It is believed Goddess Shakti blesses the Pot with her presence. The pot is sprinkled with water on all the nine days. Pujas and other rituals are performed. At the end of the ninth day, the barley shoots will reach a height of 2 to 3 inches and its then pulled out and distributed. Ghatasthapana is an important ritual during Navratri and Durga Puja (September – October) and also at ...

Gudhi Padwa, or Gudi Padva, is the Marathi New Year and here is a collection of Gudhi Padwa quotes and messages. These quotations to wish friends and relatives were collected from numerous sources and edited to suit the Gudhi Padwa day. Let this Gudhi Padwa usher in a Good and Sweet Year, both materially and spiritually. Wish you a happy Gudhi Padwa with love, peace, hope and joy for the year ahead. Happy Gudhi Padwa and let this be a delightful year, filled with delightful things in each of its days. From this Gudhi Padva let us go forward with great hope that all things will be possible. May this Gudi Padwa be a good one for all of us. Another Gudhi Padwa is here to banish our worries and mistakes and start afresh. Happy Gudhi Padwa. Let this New Year herald new optimism, zeal and cheer. Let us welcome this Gudhi Padwa with great hope, eagerness and anticipation. Let us look forward to a plentiful year of joy, satisfaction, peace and prosperity. Let this Gudi Padva bring peace a...

The question of whether Mahavatar Babaji is still alive is a topic of much intrigue and spiritual speculation. Mahavatar Babaji is a legendary figure in Hinduism and Kriya Yoga, known primarily through the writings of Paramahansa Yogananda, particularly in his book "Autobiography of a Yogi." Babaji is described as a deathless guru who has maintained a youthful appearance for centuries and is said to reside in the Himalayas. There are several points to consider: Historical and Scriptural Accounts : Babaji's existence is primarily documented in spiritual texts and accounts from disciples and followers. These accounts are considered spiritual or mystical experiences rather than verifiable historical records. Beliefs in Immortality : According to Yogananda and other spiritual teachers, Babaji has transcended physical death through advanced yogic practices. This belief aligns with certain Hindu and yogic traditions that hold the possibility of attaining immortality or extremel...

Naba Barsha or Poila Baisakh is the traditional Hindu New Year in West Bengal and Bangladesh . It is celebrated in the month of Vaishakh or Baisakh (April – May). In 2026, the date of Nababarsha or Poila Baisakh is April 15. The New Year is popularly referred as Naba Barsa or Nava Varsha in Bengal and Pohela or Poila Baisakh in Bangladesh . It is the first day in the traditional Hindu Bengali Calendar. In Bengali houses, Naba Barsa is welcomed with elaborate alpanas (rangolis). A kalash is placed in the center of the alpana pattern and it symbolizes prosperity. Houses are elaborately decorated with flowers as there is no shortage of flowers during this season. Another important event is the Prabhat Pheris or early morning processions. Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Lord Ganesha are worshipped on the Bengali New Year day. Traders perform the halkhata ceremony that marks the advent of the Bengali New Year. All shops are decorated with flowers and one wi...

The World of Shiva is a realm imbued with peace, tranquility, and a profound sense of balance. This divine domain reflects the essence of Shiva, the auspicious one, who embodies both the destructive and regenerative forces of the universe. In this serene world, there is a deep harmony with nature, a profound understanding of existence, and an acceptance of the cyclical nature of life and death. Here, beings exist in a state of inner peace, free from the ceaseless desires and conflicts that plague human life. However, humans, driven by an inherent desire for prosperity, often find themselves at odds with this natural state of peace. Prosperity, in human terms, typically means the accumulation of wealth, power, and material comforts. It is pursued with a fervor that frequently leads to competition, conflict, and a relentless striving for more. This pursuit of prosperity is a double-edged sword; while it can bring about advancements, comfort, and improved living standards, it often comes ...

In today's frenetic world, the paradox of modern life can be humorously summed up by an age-old observation: "Modern humans are terrified by peace, so they create new problems daily." This quip, often attributed to the humor of Hindu saints, captures a deep truth about human nature and society. The Fear of Peace 1. The Unfamiliarity with Stillness: In our hyper-connected era, silence and stillness have become uncomfortable for many. We are constantly bombarded with stimuli from our phones, computers, and televisions. When there is a moment of peace, it can feel foreign and unsettling. This unfamiliarity often leads people to seek out new distractions or challenges to fill the void. 2. The Addiction to Chaos: The constant hustle and bustle can become addictive. Much like any other addiction, the absence of chaos can lead to withdrawal symptoms. People may feel a sense of purposelessness without the constant stream of issues to resolve or activities to engage in. Creating...

The quest for peace has always been intertwined with the religious and spiritual dimensions of human existence. In a world characterized by diverse belief systems, the principles of Hindu thought provide a compelling framework for fostering peace through respect for freedom of belief. Hinduism, with its pluralistic ethos, offers valuable insights into how monolithic religions can cultivate a more inclusive and harmonious approach. Pluralism in Hinduism Hinduism is fundamentally pluralistic. It embraces a wide array of beliefs, practices, and deities, allowing for a rich diversity of spiritual expressions. This pluralism is rooted in the concept of Ekam Sat Vipra Bahudha Vadanti — "Truth is one, the wise call it by many names." This tenet underscores the idea that multiple paths can lead to the same ultimate reality, encouraging tolerance and acceptance of different beliefs. Dharma and Ahimsa Central to Hindu philosophy are the concepts of Dharma (duty, righteousness) and Ah...

Soubhagya Gauri Vrat is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and is observed on the third day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra Mas (March – April). In 2026, the date of Soubhagya Gauri Vrat is on March 21. Observed by women in Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra , Sowbhagya Gauri Vratam is also known as Gauri Tritiya. Married women pray for a happy family life and unmarried women pray for a good husband on the day. Legends of Goddess Parvati and Shiva are often referred to in Hindu Scriptures. Ramayana and Mahabharata are full of references of the main characters performing important rituals dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Shiva. It is believed that Goddess Parvati performed intense austerities to get Lord Shiva as husband. Regional scriptures and legends mention about Sita Devi performing the Gauri Tritiya to get Lord Ram as her husband. Goddess Gauri is another name of Goddess Parvati. Some scriptures indicate that Lord Shiva finally agreed to marry Goddess ...

In the intricate tapestry of human desires and societal norms, a paradox stands out with a curious blend of humor and irony: the universal aspiration for wealth and the simultaneous criticism of the wealthy. This paradox is not just a modern phenomenon but has been a source of amusement and reflection among Hindu sages for centuries. Let's delve into this amusing contradiction and explore the humor that ancient Hindu sages found in this aspect of human nature. The Universal Aspiration for Wealth Wealth, in its many forms, has been a central pursuit for individuals and civilizations throughout history. From the treasures of kings and emperors to the digital fortunes of modern-day entrepreneurs, the quest for financial abundance is a common thread. People strive for wealth to secure comfort, status, and the freedom to live life on their own terms. This aspiration is evident in the way society idolizes success stories, celebrates the accumulation of riches, and often equates money wit...

The assertion that the human world will always be full of conflict and sorrow because it is driven by selfishness is a perspective deeply rooted in the wisdom of Hindu sages. This viewpoint can be explored through various philosophical and spiritual dimensions within Hinduism. Selfishness as a Root Cause of Conflict Hindu sages have long emphasized the role of selfishness, or "ahamkara" (ego), as a primary source of human suffering. Selfish desires and attachments, according to these teachings, lead individuals to act in ways that create discord and unhappiness both for themselves and others. This ego-driven behavior manifests in numerous forms, such as greed, anger, jealousy, and pride, all of which contribute to interpersonal and societal conflicts. The Cycle of Samsara Hindu philosophy teaches the concept of samsara, the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, driven by karma (actions). Selfish actions generate negative karma, which perpetuates this cycle of suffering....

Sanskrit terms are widely used is many regional languages in India especially to denote auspicious days, auspicious time, festivals etc. But all these regional languages have specific terms in the respective language for these auspicious occasions; but most people prefer the Sanskrit terms. B. Shrinivas, a software entrepreneur and publisher of Dheivamurasu, a spiritual Tamil magazine, has launched a pure Tamil Calendar with no trace of any foreign language influence. The calendar published by Dheivamurasu magazine is fully in Tamil – even for numerals. Today, English numerals are used in most regional language calendars and most people are not even aware that each regional language has their own set of numerals. The Hindu reports For instance, the full moon is not Pournami, but Niraimathi, according to the calendar. Similarly, the new moon is not Amavasai, but Maraimathi. This may come as a surprise to even lyricists who have been penning songs in Tamil apparently not ...

‘Return of the Rituals: Rites of Passage of Nagarathar Children’ is the title of a documentary film and book by Dr Kala Shreen. As the title indicates, the book deals with rituals that were forgotten but which are slowly being picked up by the modern generation of the Nagarathar community in South India . The documentary film focuses on old rituals and older generations who had participated in the rituals shares their knowledge and experience. The New Indian Express reports The Documentary film has captured the ceremonies, which had become obsolete over the last century. Kala spent three days for shooting, when the ceremonies were enacted as one could not capture live performances of these obsolete rituals. People who were over 80 years of age were interviewed for the documentary. They shared their experiences of the past. Indigenous songs of the community were documented and tunes composed for them. The book has two sections. The first section is a description of three ...

 The One Is Real; The Many Are Mere Names And Forms" is a teaching attributed to the Indian sage Ramana Maharshi. This statement is deeply rooted in Advaita Vedanta, a non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy. Traditional Meaning Traditionally, this teaching emphasizes the concept of non-duality (Advaita), which asserts that there is a single, unchanging reality, often referred to as Brahman or the Self. According to this view: The One Is Real: The ultimate reality is singular, eternal, and unchanging. This reality is often equated with pure consciousness or the Self (Atman). The Many Are Mere Names And Forms: The multiplicity we perceive in the world—diverse objects, people, and phenomena—are not ultimately real. They are transient and constantly changing, thus considered illusory or superficial in nature. These are described as "names and forms" (nāma-rūpa) that do not possess independent existence apart from the one reality. Modern Significance In a contemporary con...

  While both Susruta and Charaka are fundamental figures in Ayurveda, their teachings complement each other by covering different aspects of the medical field. Susruta's expertise in surgery and anatomical details provides a strong foundation for surgical practices, whereas Charaka's comprehensive approach to internal medicine and pharmacology enriches the therapeutic and preventive aspects of Ayurveda. Together, they represent a holistic and complete system of ancient Indian medicine. Similarities Foundation in Ayurveda : Both Susruta and Charaka are pivotal figures in the field of Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine in India. Their teachings form the core of classical Ayurvedic knowledge and practice. Holistic Approach : Both emphasized a holistic approach to health, focusing on the balance between body, mind, and spirit. They advocated for lifestyle modifications, diet, and natural remedies as means to maintain and restore health. Tridosha Theory : Both Susruta and ...

Hinduism is rich with rituals, practices, and devotions, especially when it comes to worshiping Lord Shiva. Here are ten easy ways to seek blessings from Lord Shiva: Chanting Mantras : Regularly chanting the sacred mantras dedicated to Lord Shiva, such as "Om Namah Shivaya," is believed to invoke his blessings. Early morning hours, especially during Brahma Muhurta (around 4 AM), are considered the best time for chanting. Abhishekam (Ritual Bathing) : Performing Abhishekam on a Shiva Lingam with water, milk, honey, and other sacred substances is a highly revered practice. It symbolizes purification and devotion. Each substance used has a particular significance and believed benefits. Observing Fast : Observing fasts on Mondays, which are dedicated to Lord Shiva, or during the month of Shravan (usually July-August), is considered very auspicious. Fasting is believed to purify the body and mind and increase one’s spiritual strength. Offering Bilva Leaves : Bilva (or Bel) leaves ...

Nisargadatta Maharaj and Jiddu Krishnamurti were both influential spiritual teachers in the 20th century, but their teachings and approaches had notable differences as well as similarities. Here’s a detailed comparison: Similarities Focus on Self-Inquiry and Direct Experience: Both emphasized the importance of direct experience over intellectual understanding. They encouraged individuals to look within themselves for answers rather than relying on external authorities or scriptures. Rejection of Organized Religion and Tradition: Both Nisargadatta and Krishnamurti were critical of organized religion and traditional practices. They believed that true understanding and enlightenment could not be found through adherence to rituals or dogma. Emphasis on the Present Moment: Both teachers stressed the importance of being fully present in the moment. They believed that living in the present is crucial f...

Sri Srinivasa Kalyanotsavam , the celestial wedding ritual at Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple , will be performed at New Delhi by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). The divine wedding of Lord Balaji and his consorts Sridevi and Bhoodevi is one of the most famous rituals at the Tirupati Temple . Srivari Kalyanam is now being organized in different cities around India for pilgrims who are unable to travel to Tirupati. In Delhi , the celestial wedding ritual will be held on March 21, 2009. The idols of Lord Balaji and Goddess Padmavati will be brought to Delhi in a special chariot of the celestial wedding. You will get more information about the event at the: TTD Information Center, e-Darshan Counter, College Campus, No.2 Faculty Flats, Dhaulakulam, Opp Sathyanikethan, New Delhi Ph: 011-24112349

The relationship between Dronacharya and Ashwatthama, as depicted in the Indian epic Mahabharata, provides several profound lessons that can be applied to various aspects of life. Here are some of the key lessons: 1. Parental Ambition and Pressure Dronacharya had high expectations for his son Ashwatthama, desiring him to be a great warrior. This reflects how parents often place their ambitions and dreams onto their children, sometimes creating immense pressure. It highlights the importance of understanding and supporting children's own aspirations rather than imposing one's own desires on them. 2. Importance of Ethical Education Despite being a great teacher, Dronacharya's decisions, influenced by his allegiance and personal vendettas, were sometimes ethically questionable. This serves as a reminder that education should not only impart skills but also ethical values and the importance of righteousness. 3. Consequences of Favoritism Dronacharya's favoritism towards Arju...

Nisargadatta Maharaj and Osho are two prominent spiritual teachers from India, each with a distinct approach and philosophy. Here are the main differences and similarities in their teachings: Differences Philosophical Focus : Nisargadatta Maharaj : His teachings primarily revolve around Advaita Vedanta (non-dualism). He emphasizes the realization of the Self as the ultimate truth, often summarizing his message as "I am That." His approach is more direct and focused on the understanding that one's true nature is beyond the physical and mental realms. Osho : His teachings are more eclectic and integrate elements from various spiritual traditions including Zen, Taoism, Sufism, and Tantra. Osho often discusses the need for a new kind of human being, whom he calls "Zorba the Buddha," combining the material and the spiritual. Teaching Style : Nisargadatta Maharaj : Known for his simple, straightforward, and sometimes blunt teaching style. His dialogues are mostly ques...

Institute for Studies in Vedic Sciences believes that the ancient Vedic Practice of Agnihotra can fight global warming and reduce pollution. The Vedic practice of Agnihotra involves burning of cow dung along with ghee and rice in a copper altar at sunrise and sunset while chanting specific mantras. The fumes that rise from this burning contain chemicals that absorb pollution and kill harmful bacteria. On March 12, 2009, the members of the institute are celebrating World Agnihotra Day. Aditya Paul writes about Agnihotra in Expressindia.com To most rational and critical minds, the first question is how can burning cow dung help the environment? Dr Rajanvale answers, “Our institute scientifically researched the theory and I must admit though we are convinced of the effects, we don’t really understand the reasons. For example, we conducted an experiment at a junction in Pune in which we took air samples on a day without doing a morning and evening Agnihotra and a day after d...

Meena Sankranti marks the beginning of the Sun’s transition from Kumbha Rashi to Meena Rashi (Aquarius to Pisces). There are 12 Sankranthi in a Hindu Solar Calendar and Meena Sankranti is the last in one cycle. It is an auspicious day for many communities in eastern parts of India . In 2026, the date of Meena Sankranti is March 14. Time is at 3:37 AM on March 14. ‘San’ means plenty and good and ‘Kranti’ means radical change and Sankranthi means plenty of good change. Meena Sankranti day is of importance is Odisha.

Developing a full perspective of the nature of desire to desire nothing is a profound aspect of Hindu wisdom, encapsulated in various philosophical and spiritual teachings. This concept involves understanding the origins, impacts, and ultimate transcendence of desires. Here’s an exploration of this idea from multiple angles within Hinduism: 1. Philosophical Underpinnings: Advaita Vedanta: This non-dualistic school teaches that the ultimate reality (Brahman) is beyond all desires. Desires arise from ignorance (avidya) of our true nature. By realizing the self (Atman) as non-different from Brahman, one transcends desires. Samkhya and Yoga: These systems explain that desires are products of the interaction between the mind (manas), intellect (buddhi), and ego (ahamkara) with the sensory world (prakriti). Liberation (moksha) is achieved by discriminating between the self (purusha) and the material world, leading to the cessation of desires. 2. Scriptural Insights: Bhagavad Gita: Krishna...