Shabari and Avvaiyar are two revered female figures in Hindu religion and literature, each embodying unique virtues and life lessons. Shabari is a character from the Ramayana, an ancient Indian epic, while Avvaiyar refers to several Tamil poet-saints, most notably associated with Sangam literature and later medieval periods. Both figures are celebrated for their wisdom, devotion, and moral teachings, though they hail from different cultural and historical contexts. Shabari in the Ramayana Background : Shabari is a devoted follower of Lord Rama in the epic Ramayana, written by the sage Valmiki. She belongs to a tribal community and is depicted as an elderly woman living in a hermitage in the forest. Devotion and Faith : Shabari’s life is a testament to unwavering devotion (bhakti). She waits for years to meet Lord Rama, as foretold by her guru, Sage Matanga. Her devotion is demonstrated through her daily routine of gathering berries and ensuring they are sweet and suitable for Rama. Mee...

The book titled Scientific Dating of the Mahabharata War 16 th October 5561 BC by Dr Padmakar Vishnu Vartak is for all those who are interested in pinpointing a particular date in history for the incidents mentioned in the Mahabharata and then starting a never ending debate. The book is a compilation of research papers written by Dr P V Vartak and they have been highly appreciated by scholars. The book contains following chapters – Introduction, the period of the Mahabharata, the exact date of the Mahabharata war, dates of prewar and postwar incidents, Important dates from forest life. The English book is published by Veda Vidnyana Mandala, Pune. Note - The pdf was created by Hindutva ebooks.

In Hinduism, the concept of ‘anatman’ or ‘anātman’ (Sanskrit: अनात्मन्) translates to ‘not-self’ or ‘non-self’. This term is primarily discussed in contrast to ‘atman’ (Sanskrit: आत्मन्), which means the ‘Self’ or the ‘soul’. The inquiry into the nature of the self and the origin of the world has been a central theme in various Hindu philosophies, particularly in the Vedanta tradition. The Vedanta Philosophy Vedanta is one of the six orthodox schools of Hindu philosophy and is based on the teachings of the Upanishads, which are the concluding part of the Vedas. Vedanta emphasizes the idea that the true essence of every individual is the Atman, which is identical with Brahman, the ultimate reality or world soul. This non-dualistic perspective, known as Advaita Vedanta, posits that there is no fundamental difference between the individual self and the universal self. Atman and Anatman In Vedanta, Atman refers to the true self, which is eternal, unchanging, and beyond physical form. It is...

Chaitra Shukla Pratipada, also known as Chaitra Sukhladi, is the first day during the waxing phase of moon in the Chaitra Month. Chaitra Shukla Pratipada 2025 date is March 30. The day is observed as Hindu New Year in North India . The day is also observed as Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra and Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. The Sindhi Community observes Cheti Chand on the day, which is the Sindhi New Year. Chaitra Shukla Pratipada marks the beginning of the Vikram Samvat Year. Nav Varsh Samvat 2082 will begin on March 30 .

Sant Narhari Sonar was an ardent devotee of Lord Vithoba and Lord Shiva and is believed to have had the darshan of Lord Vithoba (Sri Hari Vishnu). Sant Narhari Sonar Punyatithi 2026 date is February 4. A goldsmith by profession, Sant Narhari Sonar got the darshan of Vithoba when he tried to measure the waist size of the murti of Vithoba at Pandharpur Vitthal Temple t hrough imagination. Legend has it that once a merchant asked Sant Narhari to prepare a gold waist band for Vithoba. But being an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva, Sant Narhari did not want to go to Pandharpur temple. So he tried to close his eyes and imagine the waist size of Lord Vithoba. But as he tried to imagine the waist size he felt as if he was touching the Shivling and this happened several times. Finally, when Sant Narhari opened his eyes he found Lord Vithoba before him. Sant Narhari Sonar realized that Shiva and Vishnu are the same. After realization, the pious soul became an ardent devotee of both ...

Avvaiyar and Mirabai are two of the most revered female poets in Indian history. Despite their differing cultural and geographical contexts, both have left indelible marks on Indian literature and spirituality. Here’s an in-depth comparison between these two iconic figures: 1. Historical Context and Background Avvaiyar: Era: Avvaiyar is believed to have lived during different periods according to various traditions, with some accounts placing her in the Sangam era (circa 1st-3rd century CE), while others suggest she lived around the 10th to 12th centuries. Region: Tamil Nadu, Southern India. Background: Avvaiyar was a Tamil poetess whose works are considered integral to Tamil literature. Her exact origins are unclear, but she is often depicted as an older, wise woman, hence the name Avvaiyar, which means 'Respected Woman' or 'Grandmother'. Mirabai: Era: 1498-1547 CE. Region: Rajasthan, Northern India. Background: Born into a royal Rajput family, Mirabai was marrie...

The veneration of animals is an important aspect of Hindu culture and the book titled ‘Sacred Animals of India’ by Nanditha Krishna explores this unique characteristic of Hinduism. Apart from the religious aspects, the book also examines the various traditions, tribes and communities that protect certain unique animals in India and also gives a reminder about the role of animal species in the earth’s biodiversity. Apart from the Hindu tradition, the book also mentions about the animals worshipped in Buddhism and Jainism. From the Flyer of the Book Belief in the sanctity of animals originated from ideas of karma and the transmigration of souls — thus an ant or a tiger could be one’s past or future identity. Sacred Animals of India draws on the ancient religious traditions of India —Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism—to explore the customs and practices that engendered the veneration of animals in India . Animals are worshipped in India as deities, as, for instance, the elep...

Holika Ropan is a unique ritual observed in North India on the Purnima or full moon day in the Magh month. Holika Ropan 2026 date is February 1. This particular ritual observed on Maghi Poornima day is of significance to certain Hindu communities in North India . It is a ritual associated with Holi festival. The day kick starts the preparation for the Holi festival for certain communities. The Ropan ritual is thus of great importance to those people who observe Holi festival traditionally. The ritual is ignored in western parts of India. Holika Dahan takes place on the next Purnima day of full moon day, which is the Phalgun Purnima.

Sri Ram Charan Maharaj is an 18th century saint who found the religious tradition Ramsnehi Sampradaya. Shri Ram Charan Maharaj Jayanti 2026 date is February 1. He inspired his devotees to follow the transcendent Bhakti way and asked them to shun all sorts of hypocrisy and showy rituals. Shri Ram Charan Maharaj Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of this pious soul. Shri Ram Charan Maharaj was born on the Chaturdashi day during the Shukla Paksha in Magh month in Rajasthan. Shri Ram Charan Maharaj was inclined towards spiritualism from childhood. But he followed the wishes of his parents and started a family life. But the death of his father and numerous dreams that he saw thereafter kindled the spirit of inquiry in him. He took permission from his family and went in search of a Guru. He found his Guru in Kripa Ram Maharaj. After getting initiated by his Guru, Shri Ram Charan Maharaj is believed to have performed numerous miracles to prove that rituals are veil that...

The Kumba Mela at Tirumakudal Narsipur in Mysore in Karnataka is held once in three years and it attracts by thousands of people. Tirumakudal Narsipur Kumbh Mela. T. Narsipura is located at the confluence of the Kaveri River , Kabini River and Spatika Sarovara (a hidden mythical lake, also known as Gupta Gamini). The Kumbh Mela is held here as it strikes close resemblance to Prayag or Sangam where Ganga , Yamuna and Saraswati rivers meet. Thousands of saints and Hindu devotees take holy dip at the confluence of Kaveri, Kabini and Spatika Sarovar during the auspicious period. People organizing the Kumbh Mela claims that the Mela in 2010 is Poorna Kumbha Mela and the Mahodaya Punya Snan will be held in Meena Lagna. The confluence of the three rivers and the name of the area are mentioned in the Skanda Purana. Some scholars are of the view that Sage Agastya had visualized the spot as Dakshina Kashi. The region is also home to numerous Shiva Temples and a Lord Narasi...

Anavasthitatva , as outlined in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras (1.30), is a crucial concept in Hindu philosophy, particularly in the context of yoga and spiritual practice. Patanjali identifies nine obstacles (antarayas) that impede the progress of a yogi. Anavasthitatva, being the ninth and final obstacle, is considered one of the most challenging to overcome. Definition and Nature of Anavasthitatva Anavasthitatva translates to "instability" or "non-permanence." It refers to the yogi's struggle to maintain the higher states of consciousness or spiritual progress once achieved. Despite reaching elevated states through diligent practice, the mind often regresses to lower levels or falls back into previous patterns of behavior. Characteristics and Manifestations Anavasthitatva manifests in several ways, including: Loss of Concentration : A yogi may find it difficult to sustain focus and mental clarity, leading to frequent distractions. Reversion to Old Habits : Deep...

Sa Dingding, who won the BBC Radio 3 Award for World Music in the Asia Pacific category in 2008, is being promoted as the first Chinese Sanskrit Pop Singer by China 's official media. She is being promoted by the provincial government of Tibet and if she garners enough attention she might sing at the inauguration of the May 2010 Shanghai World Expo, which is expected to draw the top business firms. Sa Dingding’s profile in China Tibet Online She is the first pop singer who sings in Sanskrit. She is also famous for her ethnic clothes and Tibetan Buddhist style of music. Although she is famous for her ethnic characteristics clothing and Tibetan Buddhist music, she is not a Tibetan girl. Her parents' ancestral home is Shandong province and her grandmother's ancestral home is Inner Mongolia . Only people who can endure loneliness can be successful. As a musician, she dropped fame and learned Sanskrit by herself. She visited all the Chinese cultural sites to fin...

Hindu religion and folklore are rich with a myriad of deities, each embodying different aspects of life, nature, and the cosmos. Among the numerous goddesses revered in various regions of India, Goddess Mariamman and Goddess Maisamma hold significant places. Both are predominantly worshipped in South India, and while they share some similarities, they are distinct in their origins, attributes, and forms of worship. Origins and Historical Background Goddess Mariamman Origins : Goddess Mariamman, also known as Mariamman, is a South Indian Hindu goddess predominantly worshipped in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Her name is derived from "Mari," which means rain, signifying her connection to fertility and the monsoon season. Historical Background : Historically, Mariamma is believed to be an ancient village deity, a guardian of rural communities. Over time, she became associated with smallpox and other infectious diseases, reflecting her role as a protector and healer....

A tithi in a Hindu calendar is a lunar day. Amavasya (No moon or new moon) happens when the longitudes of the sun and the moon are equal. A Thithi is calculated when the moon moves 12 degrees eastwards from the sun. This is the first Tithi and is known as Pratipada Thithi during Shukla Paksha or waxing phase of moon. When the moon moves 180 degrees it is Purnima or full moon and when the moon moves 360 degrees it is again Amavasya. There are 15 Tithis in a fortnight. The Length of a Tithi Since the motions of the sun and the moon are always varying in speed, the length of a Tithi constantly alters. Some times a tithi can be as long as 26 hours and as less as 21 hours 34 minutes and 24 seconds. This means the time a tithi begins varies with the general time followed in a country. Same Tithi on two days and Two Tithis on one day Sometimes a tithi might begin and end on the same day. Thus there will be two tithis on a day. For example – you might see a Tritiya and...

Theppam Festival held at the Mariamman Teppakulam in Madurai marks the culmination of the 12-day Theppam and Thaipusam festival held at the Madurai Meenakshi Temple . On the day, the deities Goddess Meenakshi (Parvati) and Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva) are taken out to attend the Theppam Festival at Marriamman Theppakulam (pond). The deities move through the pond on specially designed floats for the ritual. On the Theppam Festival day, no pujas and rituals are held at the Madurai Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple .

Akka Mahadevi and Lalleshwari, also known as Lal Ded, are two iconic female mystics and poets from medieval India. Both figures have left a profound impact on the spiritual and cultural landscapes of their respective regions. Akka Mahadevi hails from the 12th-century Karnataka, while Lalleshwari is from 14th-century Kashmir. Despite their geographical and cultural differences, their lives and works exhibit striking similarities in terms of their spiritual quests, poetry, and social defiance. Historical Context and Background Akka Mahadevi (c. 1130-1160) Region : Karnataka, South India Religious Influence : Veerashaivism (a sect of Shaivism) Language : Kannada Key Work : Vachanas (prose-poems) Life : Akka Mahadevi renounced worldly life early, devoting herself to Lord Shiva. She is often depicted as a rebel who challenged social norms, including caste and gender hierarchies. She wandered as an ascetic, composing deeply spiritual and devotional poetry. Lalleshwari (c. 1320-1392) Region :...

After offering initial prayers to the deity in a temple, Hindus walk around the deity. This is to receive the positive vibrations that are present in the deity. In most temples the deity is installed in the temple in such a spot and using such metals that it emits magnetic waves. This positive vibrations influence the devotee. Hindus move around the deity in clockwise direction. In this form, the devotee is moving along the magnetic field and thus benefits from positive vibrations are received. One never completes the complete circle of walk in a Lord Shiva. The devotee starts to walk in clockwise direction and stops at the line where the offering of milk and water flows from the sanctum sanctorum. Thus only 3 quarter is completed. A devotee returns and completes the rest of the quarter in anticlockwise direction. The popular belief is that in Shiva temples the vibrations are present in clockwise and anticlockwise. You can read more on the same subject in this artic...

An Atlanta-based company has issued seven postage stamps carrying images of Sri Krishna, Shiva-Parvati, Sai Baba, Muruga, Lord Venkateswara, Ganesha and Lakshmi. The company claims that they can be used as valid US postage stamps and are priced at 44 cents each, can also be bought on a commemorative sheet priced at $18.99. But the stamps do not find any mention in the official US Postal Service (USPS) catalog. Customized US Postage Stamps There is nothing new in the whole project. USPS allows people to customize stamps – print stamps with photos and images that you like as long as it is not copyrighted but after making the relevant payment to USPS. (You can find more details of customized postage service of USPS here at the official website of United States Postal Service.) The US-based company is just making use of this feature of (USPS) for business purpose. They have also the option for you to print your own picture on US stamps. You pay for the printing cost to the compa...

Maghi Wari is observed at Pandharpur Vitthal Temple on the Shukla Paksha Ekadasi day in Magh month (January - February) at Pandharpur Vitthal Temple . Maghi Wari 2026 date at Pandharpur Vitthal Temple is January 29. Hundreds of people visit the Pandharpur Vitthal Temple on the day and the festival is a very minor version of the famous Ashadi Wari Pandharpur Yatra. Ekadasi (11 th day) falling during the Magh Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) is considered auspicious at the Pandharpur temple. No major palkhi processions are held on the day. But hundreds of Lord Vitthal devotees converge at the temple to worship Vitthal and Rukmini.

Bhakt Pundalik Utsav is observed on a day before Maghi Shukla Paksha Ekadasi at the Pandharpur Vitthal Temple at Pandharpur in Maharashtra . Bhakt Pundalik Utsav 2026 date is January 28. The day is dedicated to Bhakt Pundalik, whose devotion for his parents brought Lord Vishnu to his door steps. There are numerous stories that narrate miracles that have happened in the life of Bhakt Pundalik. And all the miracles were with the blessings of Lord Vitthal. Bhakt Pundalik Utsav is observed on the Dasami (tenth day) during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) in Magh month (January – February). The day is observed with great enthusiasm and thousands of people pay their respect to Bhakt Pundalik by listening and narrating his stories. The Maghi Wari at Pandharpur is observed on the next day.

Sri Gopalarya Mahadesikan , more famously known as Srimad Thirukkudanthai Desikan , was born in 1700 CE in the village of Rayampettai, located in the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu, India. His birth was considered a divine blessing from Lord Oppiliappan, and he was born to Sri Krishna Suri. From a young age, Srimad Thirukkudanthai Desikan exhibited an extraordinary proficiency in all the sacred scriptures. Recognizing his son's potential, his father sent him to Srirangam to become a disciple of Sri Sakshat Swami. Sri Sakshat Swami was renowned for his spiritual prowess and had a significant following from his early years. In a divine revelation, Lord Ranganatha appeared in Sri Sakshat Swami’s dream, instructing him to mentor Srimad Thirukkudanthai Desikan in the philosophical doctrines established by Sri Ramanuja and Sri Vedanta Desika. After completing his studies, Srimad Thirukkudanthai Desikan returned to Thirukkudanthai (present-day Kumbakonam) and began to propagate the samp...

In Hindu cosmology, the concept of time is divided into four Yugas (epochs or ages): Satya Yuga, Treta Yuga, Dvapara Yuga, and Kali Yuga. Each Yuga represents a progressive decline in righteousness (dharma) and increase in vice (adharma). The character and behavior of demons (asuras or rakshasas) also change significantly from one Yuga to another, reflecting the overall moral and spiritual degeneration. Satya Yuga (Age of Truth and Perfection) Duration : Approximately 1,728,000 years. Characteristics : This is the age of truth, virtue, and righteousness. Dharma is at its peak, with 100% adherence. Nature of Demons : In Satya Yuga, demons are almost non-existent as the prevalence of dharma and righteousness is overwhelming. The few that exist are powerful but are also embodiments of ignorance and illusion rather than outright evil. They challenge the gods primarily through deception and illusion rather than through direct conflict. Example : Hiranayaksha and Hiranyakashipu are notable f...

Gardening holds significance in Hinduism, deeply rooted in the culture and spiritual practices of followers. Here are several reasons why gardening is important in Hinduism: Connection to Nature: Hinduism emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living beings with nature. Gardening allows individuals to nurture and care for plants, fostering a deep connection with the natural world. Karma Yoga: Gardening can be seen as an expression of Karma Yoga, the path of selfless service. By tending to plants and cultivating the earth, individuals perform actions without attachment to the outcome, dedicating their efforts to the greater good. Offerings to Deities: Many Hindus believe in offering flowers, fruits, and other produce from their gardens to deities during worship rituals. These offerings symbolize devotion and gratitude to the divine. Sacred Plants: Certain plants hold special significance in Hinduism and are often cultivated in gardens. For example, Tulsi (holy basil) is con...

Mahananda Navami is an auspicious day observed in Northern parts of India by certain Hindu communities. Navami is the ninth day in a fortnight in a traditional Hindu lunar calendar. This particular Mahananda navami is observed in a couple of other months too. The main ritual involves purifying oneself in holy rivers like Ganga . Mahananda Navami is observed mainly on the ninth day (navami) during shukla paksha (waxing phase of moon) of Magha mahina or Magh month. (January – February), Bhadrapad month and Margashirsh month.

Andhatamisra is a concept from Hindu philosophy that deals with a deep-seated fear, particularly the fear of death or self-destruction. To understand it better, we need to explore some fundamental ideas from the Sankhya Darshana, one of the major schools of Hindu thought. Two Types of Creation in Sankhya Philosophy Elemental Creation : This involves the physical universe, made up of the basic elements like earth, water, fire, air, and ether. Creation of Buddhi (Intellect) : This is a more subtle creation, referred to as pratyaya-sarga . It is divided into four categories: Viparyaya (Ignorance) Asakti (Incapacity) Tushti (Contentment) Siddhi (Perfection or Powers) Understanding Andhatamisra Andhatamisra falls under the category of viparyaya (ignorance) and represents a profound fear, primarily the fear of death or losing one’s existence. Eighteen Varieties : There are eighteen different forms of this fear, each manifesting in various ways. Gross and Subtle Objects of Pleasure : G...

Makara Bharani is highly auspicious day observed on the day when the Bharani Nakshatra falls in the Malayalam month Makaram. Makara Bharani 2026 date is January 27. The day is of great significance in the Goddess Bhagavathi Temples (Shakti) in Kerala. The day also marks the end of the Padayani ritual in some regions in Kerala. Numerous temples in Kerala, especially those dedicated to Goddess Shakti, observe numerous different types of rituals which includes special processions.

A recently concluded meeting of Hindu Dharma Acharya Sabha at Hyderabad , India , touched upon the need for the establishment of an Institute of Hindu Heritage Studies and Research to produce research work and publications of high academic standard, to stand rigorous scrutiny. But the most important idea that emerged during the meeting is the setting up of a Rashtriya Jyotish Goshti to rework panchangams or Hindu Almanacs with the help of the best available experts in astronomy, mathematics and astrology. Prakash Belawadi writes on this topic sarcastically in DNA Swami Gangadharendra Saraswathi of Suvarnavalli Mutt in Sirsi is actually working on precisely such a project to reorient the Hindu calendars with astronomy and mathematics. The research and rewriting is being coordinated by S Balachandra Rao, author of several books on astronomy and a retired professor of mathematics and former principal of National College , Basavanagudi. What the professor wants is aston...

Datta Navratri or Datta Navratra is the nine days of rituals and prayers observed by certain Hindu communities especially in western parts of India . There is very little information available on this particular Navratra except that it is observed a couple of times in a year. The Datta Navratri coincides with the Magh Mahina Navratri observed in North India . Apart from the two popular Navratris that is observed in Chaitra (March – April) and Ashwin (September – December) month, there are numerous other Navratris that is dedicated to other deities the popular among it is the Banashankari Navratri and Shakabmabari Devi Navratri. Datta Navratri is one such observance which is limited to a particular Hindu community and region.

Swami Vijnanananda , a direct disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, gives insight on the human mind. The mind is man’s greatest and only treasure. God has fashioned this mind in such a way that it will always be subservient to you. If the mind were disobedient by nature, we would not have been responsible for any of our actions. In that case, man would neither be a free agent nor would be counted as the acme of creation. You are the complete master of your mind and you can shape it as you like. When the mind is completely within our control, it will have nothing to exist on except noble thoughts. For the nourishment of the body we are to give it only wholesome food avoiding unwholesome things: similarly we are to nourish the mind with noble thoughts, high ideals, and good discourses refusing to provide it with unwholesome food like evil thoughts and bad associations. Explanation You are the complete master of your ... to exist on except noble thoughts. When you ...

I’m pleased to post the following interview with one of the Hindu bloggers that I’ve admired for some time – Jayasree Saranathan writes the blog Non-random thoughts . She introduces herself as Sanathanist. This is a new section that we are starting in Hindu Blog. We plan to interview our readers, people who comment regularly, writers and editors associated with Hinduism, Hindu bloggers and editors, Saints, skeptics and other religious people. There is a particular reason for starting the interview with Jayasree Saranathan – it is women who have always kept the flame of Santana Dharma steady. It is they how have always protected the flame of core teachings and tradition from numerous attacks from within and outside. And it is they who always passed the flame from one generation to another. It is through our mothers that we come into contact with this great tradition. Hindu Blog – When you say I am a Hindu, what does it mean to you? Srimati Jayasree Saranathan - Whe...

Vidhan Saptami is observed on the seventh day (Saptami) of Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) in the month of Magh (January – February). Vidhan Saptami 2026 date is January 25. Saptami or Seventh day during the waxing phase of moon in Magha month is highly auspicious and is dedicated to Lord Surya. The popular belief is that the rays of the sun have curative properties on the day as earth’s inclination towards the sun is the steepest on the day. Vidhan Saptami is mainly observed in North India . There information that is available about the ritual is very sketchy. The day is also observed in this region as Arogya Saptami and Radha Saptami. The day is popularly observed as Ratha Saptami and is dedicated to Lord Surya riding on seven horses.

Mahishasura and Hiranyakashipu are two prominent asuras (demons) in Hindu mythology. Both are depicted as powerful beings who challenged the gods and met their end due to their arrogance and misuse of power. However, their stories, motivations, and the context of their lives highlight different aspects of dharma (cosmic law and order) and adharma (chaos or unrighteousness). Here, we delve deeper into their tales, examining their origins, characteristics, and the lessons their stories impart. Origins and Backgrounds Mahishasura : Birth and Lineage : Mahishasura was born from the union of a demon king Rambha and a water buffalo. This dual heritage granted him the ability to change between human and buffalo forms. Boons and Power : Through intense penance, Mahishasura gained a boon from Lord Brahma that he could not be killed by any man or god, making him invincible to almost all beings in the universe. Hiranyakashipu : Birth and Lineage : Hiranyakashipu was born to the sage Kashyapa and ...

Vrindavan Kumbha Mela is held once in twelve years on the bank of Yamuna at Brindavan (holy place associated with Lord Krishna) in Uttar Pradesh. Vrindavan Kumbh Mela 2010 begins on January 20 (on Basant Panchami day). The Maha Kumbha Mela is expected to attract more than 500,000 devotees. This Mahakumbh mela held during the year when Haridwar Kumbha Mela is held. Legend has it that after the Churning of the Ocean (Samudra Manthan), the nectar pitcher or Amrut pot was carried by Garuda (Vahana of Lord Vishnu) around the world and the Garuda is believed to have sat on Kadamba Tree at Kali Dah in Vrindavan. The main ritual during the Vrindaban Kumbh Mela includes taking bath in the Yamuna to attain Moksha. A few groups of Hindu saints like the Bairagis attend Vrindavan Kumbh before setting out for Shahi Snan during Haridwar Kumbha Mela.

A comparison between Hiranyakashipu and Hiranyaksha, two significant figures in Hindu religion, particularly in the context of their stories in the Puranas. Origins and Background Hiranyakashipu and Hiranyaksha were brothers and prominent asuras (demons) in Hindu mythology. They were born to the sage Kashyapa and his wife Diti. Their birth was marked by a dark prophecy, predicting their future roles as formidable antagonists to the gods. Hiranyakashipu : Hiranyakashipu's name means "clothed in gold," symbolizing his immense wealth and power. He sought revenge against Vishnu for the death of his brother Hiranyaksha, killed by Vishnu in his Varaha (boar) avatar. Hiranyakashipu performed intense penance to Brahma, gaining a boon that made him nearly invincible. He could not be killed by human or animal, indoors or outdoors, during day or night, on earth or in the sky, by any weapon, or by any demigod. Hiranyaksha : Hiranyaksha's name means "golden-eyed," indic...

The particular Mahabharata e-Book in PDF format for free download is part of Project Gutenberg. This Mahabharat in English is in verse format and was translated into English from Sanskrit by Romesh C. Dutt. Please note that this book is in condensed format and avoids the numerous stories which are part of Mahabharata. Link – Download Mahabharata Book in PDF format