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