The Ambastha caste, a product of the complex social stratifications in Hindu society, is an example of varnasankara, or caste admixture. This concept, mentioned as early as the Mahabharata period, refers to the blending of different varnas (castes) through inter-caste marriages, leading to the creation of new sub-castes. Origins of the Ambastha Caste The Ambastha caste is traditionally described as originating from the union of a Brahmana (priestly caste) father and a Vaishya (merchant/trader caste) mother. This cross-varna marriage resulted in a distinct social group with specific duties and professions. Brahmana Father and Vaishya Mother: Professions: The primary occupations assigned to the Ambasthas in this lineage were medicine and surgery, as well as agriculture. They were known for their expertise in medical practices and played significant roles as physicians and surgeons. Additionally, they were involved in farming and agricultural activities, contributing to the agrarian econ

Ambastha, the mahout of the tyrannical King Kamsa of Mathura, holds a significant yet often overlooked place in the rich tapestry of Indian mythology. He was known for his skill in handling elephants, a prestigious role in royal courts of ancient India. However, his loyalty to Kamsa and his malevolent intentions marked his actions as sinister in the grand narrative of Krishna and Balarama's adventures. Background of Kamsa Kamsa, the ruler of Mathura, was a feared and ruthless king. Prophecies foretold that his death would come at the hands of his sister Devaki's eighth son. To prevent this, Kamsa imprisoned Devaki and her husband Vasudeva, killing each of their newborns. However, Krishna, the eighth child, was miraculously saved and secretly raised in the village of Gokul. Balarama, his elder brother, was also saved through divine intervention. Ambastha's Role in the Plot Kamsa's desperation to eliminate Krishna and Balarama grew as they matured, demonstrating supernatu

Ambhasi Dharana is one of the five dharanas (concentrative techniques) known collectively as the 'pancha dharanas' in the practice of Hatha Yoga. These dharanas are designed to help practitioners conquer the mind, leading to spiritual realization and self-awareness. In addition, practitioners may also attain certain supernormal powers through diligent practice. Concept and Symbolism Ambhasi Dharana involves fixing the mind on the principle of ambhas, which means water. In Hindu philosophy, the water principle is associated with purity, fluidity, and the potential for deep introspection. It is visualized as having the following characteristics: Color and Form : The water principle is white, reminiscent of the kunda flower (jasmine), a conch, or the moon, symbolizing purity and calmness. Shape : It is circular, representing completeness and the cyclical nature of existence. Presiding Deity : Vishnu, the preserver among the Hindu trinity (Trimurti), is the deity associated with th

Ambuvaci, also known as Ambubachi, is a significant fertility rite observed in the Indian state of Bengal, particularly among the agrarian communities. The term "Ambuvaci" is derived from the words "ambu," meaning water, and "vaci," meaning speech, signifying the Earth speaking or expressing through the arrival of monsoon rains. Symbolically, it represents Mother Earth (Bhudevi or Dharani) undergoing her annual menstrual cycle, marking a period of fertility and renewal. Timing and Duration Ambuvaci is observed during the month of Ashadha in the Hindu calendar, which corresponds to June-July in the Gregorian calendar. The festival lasts for four days, from Ashadha Krishna Dashami to Ashadha Krishna Trayodashi. This period is considered critical as it heralds the onset of the monsoon season, essential for agricultural productivity. Ritual Significance During these four days, Mother Earth is believed to be in a state of impurity, similar to the menstrual cycl

Amalaki Ekadashi is observed during the waxing phase of moon in Phalgun month (February – March). An interesting story of Amalaki Ekadashi was once narrated by Sage Vasishta and is found in the Brahmanda Purana. Amalaki Ekadasi Vrat Katha is listened to by those people observing the fast. Once there was a prosperous kingdom named Vaidisa and it was ruled by King Chaitraratha. He was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu and the people in the entire kingdom were very rich and had no worries. All this was due to the blessings of Lord Vishnu. Once on Amalaki Ekadashi, the king and the people in the kingdom went to a Vishnu Temple located on a riverbank and made offerings to Lord Vishnu and an Amalaki Tree (Gooseberry) in the temple premises. The king also made offerings to Lord Parashurama. The king and his followers remained awake during the night. Then a hungry hunter came there and impressed by the devotion of the people present there he joined in the bhajans and did not s

Amhaspati is a term derived from Sanskrit, where "Amhas" means "sin" and "Pati" means "lord" or "master." Thus, Amhaspati translates to the "Lord of Sins." This term is used to refer to a specific concept in the context of the Hindu calendar. Intercalary Month in the Hindu Calendar In the Hindu calendar, which is primarily a lunisolar calendar, adjustments are periodically made to align the lunar months with the solar year. The solar year is approximately 365.25 days, whereas the lunar year, consisting of 12 lunar months, is about 354 days. This discrepancy necessitates the insertion of an additional month approximately every 2.5 to 3 years to synchronize the lunar calendar with the solar year. This extra month is known as an Adhik Maas (extra month) or Intercalary Month . Kshayamasa and Amhaspati In addition to the Adhik Maas, there is a concept called Kshayamasa , which refers to the omission of a lunar month for calendar

If you are looking to play Holi in an eco-friendly way, then this is yet another new option. A group of 20 woman inmates at Tihar's Jail and Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS) in Delhi have come out with nature friendly edible colors for Holi celebrations. The dry colours (gulal) are made using flowers, herbs, arrowroot powder and food grade colour. This eco-friendly color from Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS) is available in select centers in Delhi . Indian Express Reports  "We have used arrowroot powder and flower petals alongwith food grade colour and natural fragrances to make colours that are purely skin friendly and even eatable," says Vishal anand, spokesperson Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS), an NGO which has been working with inmates for over 15 years.  Vishalanand says, "Packaging of the colours will be done at par with the international standards and they will be put on sale at a mall in Rajouri Garden and Delhi Ha

In Hindu ritual practice, amiksha plays a significant role, particularly during specific sacrificial ceremonies known as Chaturmasya sacrifices . Chaturmasya, which literally translates to "four months," refers to a period of four lunar months in the Hindu calendar during which various sacrifices and rituals are performed to honor the gods and ensure prosperity and spiritual well-being. Preparation of Amiksha Amiksha is a form of curdled milk product, created through a specific process that involves both fresh and sour milk: Drawing and Heating Milk : Fresh milk is drawn early in the morning. This freshly drawn milk is then heated, which is a crucial step in the preparation process. Addition of Sour Milk : Sour milk from the previous evening is added to the heated fresh milk. The sour milk acts as a culture, initiating the curdling process. Separation into Two Portions : The mixture of fresh and sour milk naturally divides into two distinct parts: Solid Portion (Amiksha/Paya

Holi in Nandgaon begins on the tenth day (dasami) of the shukla paksha (waxing phase of moon) of Phalgun month with the return visit of the Gopas of Barsana to play Holi with the Gopis of Nandgaon. In 2025, Lathmar Holi in Nandgaon is on March 9 and March 10. On the previous day, the men of Nandgaon village had gone to Barsana to play the famous Lathmar Holi with the females there. Now the men folk come to play holi in Nandgaon. The men folk of Barsana carry a flag from their village to the Shriji Temple in Nandgaon. The men and women of Nandgaon try to stop them. Colors are thrown on all the people around. The occasion is marked by singing of devotional and folk songs. Women also fend off the men folk of Barsana with bamboo sticks. Nandgaon is around 30 km from Mathura and is on the way to Barsana. You may like to read Holi in Barsana

The terms "Shabda Brahman" and "Para Brahman" (Parabrahman) are significant concepts in Hindu philosophy, each representing distinct aspects of the ultimate reality and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. Let's delve deeper into their meanings, implications, and the pathways they offer towards spiritual realization. Shabda Brahman Definition and Meaning: Shabda Brahman, also known as the "Word Brahman," refers to the ultimate reality expressed through sacred sounds, particularly the Vedas and their branches. It is the manifestation of the divine through language, sound, and scriptural knowledge. Role of the Vedas: The Vedas are ancient texts that constitute the foundation of Hindu philosophy, rituals, and spiritual knowledge. Mastery of the Vedas involves understanding their hymns, rituals, and philosophical doctrines, which are considered divine revelations. Pathway to Spiritual Knowledge: Studying and mastering the Vedas (Shabda Brahman) is seen as a

Shadanga Yoga is a holistic system of yoga comprising six essential steps. These steps are designed to lead practitioners toward spiritual enlightenment and the realization of oneness with the ultimate reality, Brahman. The six steps of Shadanga Yoga are: Pratyahara (Withdrawal of the Senses) : Definition : Pratyahara involves the withdrawal of the mind from the external sensory world. It is a practice where the senses are consciously turned inward, detaching from external objects. Explanation : In this step, the mind and sense objects are visualized as 'rays emanating from the atman' (the inner self). By perceiving them as such, their effects are neutralized, allowing the practitioner to disengage from sensory distractions and focus on inner consciousness. Dhyana (Meditation) : Definition : Dhyana is the practice of deep, uninterrupted meditation. Explanation : This stage involves meditating on the oneness of the atman (individual soul) with Brahman (the ultimate reality or co

Divya Darshan of Kanchi Mahaswami is a pictorial biography of Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Swamigal published by the Sankara Bhakta Jana Sabha Trust, Chennai is compilation of the photographs of the Mahaswami taken at various points of time. The book, in two volumes, is a unique compilation of more than 500 photographs of the Mahaswami, chronologically arranged, delineating the various events. Sri.G.Vaidyanathan, Secretary, Sri Sankara Bhaktha Jana Sabha Trust who has published this book at No.70, St Marys Road , Abhiramapuram, Chennai-18, PH : 24996823 / 9003076823 Related Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Sayings Inspirational Thought - Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswati Swamigal Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswati Thoughts

The worship of goddesses in Hinduism is unique and deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of the Indian subcontinent. Every village often has its own deity, revered and worshiped by the local community. In some villages, particularly in South India, Matangi is the term used for a woman who enacts the role of the local village goddess. This practice is a significant aspect of village life, intertwining religion, spirituality, and community well-being. Role and Significance Matangi as an Oracle: The Matangi is considered a living embodiment of the goddess and functions as an oracle. Her role is to convey the divine will and provide guidance to the villagers. During specific rituals and festivals, she enters a trance-like state, believed to be possessed by the deity, and delivers messages, prophecies, and blessings. Blessings and Alleviation of Suffering: The blessings of a Matangi are sought to alleviate various forms of suffering. Villagers believe that her touch and words can cu

Gulal Gota, in the shape of ball, is made using lac and is filled with eco-friendly Arrorate Gulal. This is used to play with colors during Holi festival celebrations especially in Jaipur, Rajasthan. The lac art is an ancient tradition and its roots are traced to the Mahabharata – the famous lac palace created by Kauravas for Pandavas. In another instance Draupadi calls Duryodhana a blind as he could not differentiate between real fruit and lac-made resembling artifacts. The gulal gota for holi festival is made of kusum lac, a high-quality resin product obtained from a tree, which is molded in various shapes mostly small rounded bowls. These bowls are filled with the arrarote gulal, also a eco-friendly colour powder obtained from herbal product and sealed to the perfection. The lac-made gulal gota is very tender and bursts when it is thrown. Gulal Gota is exclusively made by the Maniyar artisan. They were brought to Jaipur in Rajasthan by Maharaja Jai Singh and were settled in

Western media is always desperate to capture the photos of Naga Sadhus – whom they describe as naked Hindu holy man. But for Haridwar Kumbha Mela 2010 the administration had made it strict that no photographers will be allowed in the important bathing ghats in Haridwar where Naga Sadhu Babas will be performing rituals and taking the holy dip during Kumbh Mela. The San Francisco Chronicle has published a beautiful 13-photo slideshow of the Maha Kumbh Mela 2010 that is happening in Haridwar , India . The focus here too is on the Naga Sadhus but the photographs captures the mood the mela. You may like to read about Naga Sadhus

In Hindu mythology, Matangi holds a revered position as the mother of all elephants. The name 'Matangi' itself is derived from the word 'Mātaṅgī', which means a female elephant. She is venerated in various texts and traditions, symbolizing wisdom, strength, and auspiciousness. Origins and Lineage Matangi's origins are rooted deeply in Hindu cosmology. According to certain traditions, she is identified as a daughter of Daksha, a prominent Prajapati (progenitor) and his wife, and was married to the sage Kashyapa, a revered rishi in Hindu lore. Kashyapa is known to have fathered various species of beings, both divine and earthly, which places Matangi in a significant role in the creation mythos of elephants. In the grand epic of the Mahabharata, however, Matangi's parentage is attributed to Krodhavasha, who is often depicted as a demonic or wrathful entity. This alternate lineage points towards the complex and multifaceted nature of Hindu mythology, where deities a

Tila Ashtami is an auspicious day associated with the Kashmiri Pandit community and is also known as Tile Athum. Tila Ashtami 2025 date is March 7. It is observed on the eighth day (ashtami) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) in Phalgun month (February – March). The ritual welcomes the spring season with oil lamps. On the Tila Ashtami day earthen lamps are lit and placed at different places in homes and sacred places. The lamps are also floated on rivers atop grass string. The day also marks the end of the Shivratri festival. The last remaining walnuts that were prepared for watuk (Herath or Shivratri) are distributed on the day.

Sage Markandeya, renowned in Hindu mythology, was blessed with immortality by Lord Shiva at the tender age of sixteen. This divine boon has enabled him to transcend the normal human lifespan and witness the cosmic cycles of creation and destruction, known as "pralaya" or the great dissolution, countless times. His story is a testament to devotion, divine grace, and the enduring power of spiritual practices. Life and Legend Immortal Blessing Markandeya's tale begins with his miraculous birth to the sage Mrikandu and his wife Marudvati, who had prayed earnestly for a child. They were granted a son with a choice between a wise but short-lived child or a dull but long-lived one. They chose the former, and thus Markandeya was born with the knowledge that he would live only until sixteen. As the fateful age approached, Markandeya immersed himself in deep devotion to Lord Shiva. Pleased with his unwavering faith, Shiva appeared before him and blessed him with immortality. Witnes

Kridana, an online shopping which concentrates on bringing Great Indian Epics to life for children, has brought out plush dolls based on some of the characters in Ramayana. The most popular among it is the Hanuman Plush Dolls. But US-based Hindu Statesman Rajan Zed and Forum for Hindu Awakening are not happy with the Hanuman Plush Dolls. They have asked the Pennsylvania (USA) based company to recall the Hanuman plush dolls as they see it as inappropriate, upsetting, and denigrating. As per Kridana Hanuman truly keeps his friends close to his heart - and there's no better place for this cuddly, adorable monkey than close to yours. Hanumanji is a super-cuddly 13 inches from crown on head to tip of flexible tail! Included with every doll is a 12-page, full-color storybook hangtag telling your child all about Hanuman's adventures! Hindu Blog View Young Krishna is a friend and philosopher for children – but he is often a playmate. Hanuman is close to the hear

Sant Chaturthi is a significant and auspicious day celebrated primarily in the state of Odisha and other parts of eastern India. It falls on the Chaturthi, or fourth day, during the Shukla Paksha (bright or waxing phase of the moon) in the Hindu lunar month of Phalguna, which usually corresponds to February or March in the Gregorian calendar. Sant Chaturthi 2025 date is March 3. This day holds special importance for devotees of Lord Ganesha, the beloved elephant-headed deity in Hinduism. Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom, is widely revered across India, and Sant Chaturthi offers devotees a dedicated opportunity to worship and seek his blessings. During Sant Chaturthi, devotees observe various rituals and ceremonies to honor Lord Ganesha. This may include fasting, reciting prayers, performing special pujas (religious ceremonies), and offering sweets and other auspicious items to the deity. Many devotees also visit temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha to participa

Hinduism emphasizes the importance of looking inward to find answers and understanding. This teaching is rooted in several key concepts and texts within the tradition: Atman and Brahman : Hindu philosophy teaches that the individual soul (Atman) is a reflection of the universal soul (Brahman). Recognizing this inner divinity is essential for self-realization and understanding one's true nature. The Upanishads, ancient Hindu scriptures, often emphasize this concept, stating that knowing oneself leads to knowing the universe and the divine. Self-Realization : The journey towards self-realization (Moksha) involves introspection and meditation. By turning inward and connecting with the inner self, individuals can transcend the material world and experience spiritual enlightenment. Yoga and Meditation : Practices like yoga and meditation are central to Hinduism. These practices help individuals quiet the mind, focus inward, and access deeper layers of consciousness. The Bhagavad Gita, a

Arundhati Vrata is a ritual observed by certain communities during the first three days of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) in Chaitra month. Arundhati Vrata 2025 dates are from March 30 to April 1. Arundhati was the wife of Maharishi Vashistha and daughter of Prajapati Kardam and the Vrata is dedicated to her. It is observed by women for peace, prosperity and happy and long married life. On Chaitra Pratipada or the first day during the waxing phase of moon, the woman who has decided to observe the Vrata take bath and prayers are offered to Lord Ganesha, Shiva, Parvati and Arundhati. They take a decision to observe the Vrata. On the second day, a kalash (water filled pot) is worshipped along with durva grass, and images of Arundhati Devi and Vasishta. On the final day special prayers are offered to Ganesh, Shiva and Parvati. The day is observed as Gauri Tritiya in some regions. Giving food to the poor and helping the poor on the day brings prosperity and pe

In Hinduism, the scarecrow, while not a central figure, carries significant symbolic and cultural meaning. It is often associated with various themes such as protection, warding off evil, and the cyclical nature of life and death. Symbolism Protection and Warding Off Evil : Bhuta (Spirits) : In rural India, scarecrows are believed to ward off not just birds but also evil spirits (bhutas). This is akin to the broader Hindu practice of using talismans, rituals, and deities to protect against malevolent forces. Guardian Figures : Just as deities like Hanuman or Durga are invoked for protection, the scarecrow stands as a humble guardian in the fields, embodying a silent prayer for safety and abundance. Agricultural Prosperity : Harvest and Fertility : Scarecrows symbolize the hope for a bountiful harvest. They are seen as caretakers of the crops, ensuring that the hard work of farmers is not undone by pests. Rituals and Offerings : In some regions, scarecrows are part of agricultural ritua

Vasant Ritu, or Basant Ritu, is the spring season. The traditional calendars and Panchangs followed in North India marks the beginning of Vasant Ritu separately. Vasant Ritu 2025 starting date is February 2. It must be noted that some of the festivals associated with spring season (Vasant) like Basant Panchami is held earlier to this date. The date held significance is some regions earlier for farming related activities. It is also an important day with regard to the upcoming Holi Festival. Special rituals are held on the day in certain Lord Krishna temples.

In the Nyaya system of Hindu philosophy, there are five types of logical fallacies, known as ‘hetvabhasas’. One of these fallacies is called ‘anaikantika,’ which is also referred to as ‘savyabhicara’. To understand this concept, let's break it down into simpler terms: What is a Fallacy? A fallacy is a mistake in reasoning. It occurs when an argument seems logical but is actually flawed. The Nyaya System Nyaya is one of the six classical schools of Indian philosophy. It focuses on logic and epistemology, which is the study of knowledge and justified belief. Nyaya philosophers are particularly interested in how we come to know things and how we can argue correctly. Hetvabhasa: Faulty Reasoning In Nyaya philosophy, ‘hetvabhasa’ means a logical fallacy or faulty reasoning. There are five main types of these fallacies, and ‘anaikantika’ is one of them. Understanding Anaikantika (Savyabhicara) The term ‘anaikantika’ means non-exclusive or indeterminate. In the context of logical reasonin

The last and final book of the Ananda Ramayana is known as Purna Kanda . This book, consisting of 9 sargas (chapters) and a total of 577 shlokas (verses), is the shortest among the books of the Ananda Ramayana. Despite its brevity, it holds significant spiritual and narrative importance, detailing the final acts of Rama's earthly journey and his return to the divine realm. Summary of Purna Kanda 1. Ascension to Vaikunta : The Purna Kanda primarily focuses on the events leading to and including Rama’s return to Vaikunta, the heavenly abode of Vishnu. This ascension marks the culmination of Rama's avatar on Earth. 2. Installation of Kusha : Before his departure, Rama ensures the stability and continuity of his kingdom by installing his son Kusha on the throne. Kusha, one of the twin sons of Rama and Sita, is deemed the rightful successor to carry forward the legacy of his father. 3. Final Instructions : Rama provides Kusha with guidance and wisdom necessary for ruling Ayodhya. He

Garuda Purana is one of the Sattvika Puranas and is believed to have been first narrated by the Divine Bird Garuda, the Vahana or Vehicle of Lord Vishnu. It narrates the glory of Vishnu and contains chapters like observing Vratas and on rituals dedicated to the dead. Now you can Download Garuda Purana in English in word format for free. This Garuda Purana was first published in 1908 AD and was translated by Manmatha Nath Dutt. You can also read the Purana online. You can get details of the Purana here – Garuda Purana Link – Download Garuda Purana in English in word format It is not a direct download – select the text and then copy it into notepad or Microsoft word.

Hinduism is a way of life and not a religion – this is an oft repeated statement by Hindus. For a change a non-Hindu discovers spirituality as a way of life in India . Susan L. Smalley, Ph.D., a Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, writes in her column in The Huffington Post about her discovery of Spirituality as a Way of Life in India during her first journey to India . Let me define spirituality as 'a sense of connection to something larger than oneself' and in India this attention to spirituality is pervasive. It is evident in every aspect of the culture -- there is a constant integration of reminders that we are part of something larger than the self. It is evident in the shrines that are present on every street corner, created on sides of houses, roadside stops, hilltops, alleyways, the back of tractor trailers, and beyond. Shrines are big, small, colorful, bland, dedicated to Shiva, Ganesh, Hanuman, or thousands of other manifestati

The eighth book of the Ananda Ramayana is known as Manohara Kanda, comprising 18 sargas (chapters) and 3101 shlokas (verses). This penultimate book is the largest in volume and contains profound spiritual teachings imparted by Rama. Key Elements of Manohara Kanda Spiritual Discourses by Rama: At the request of his mother Kausalya, and his stepmothers Sumitra and Kaikeyi, Rama expounds on various spiritual truths. These teachings cover a broad range of topics related to dharma (righteousness), moksha (liberation), and the nature of the self. Rama’s discourses provide deep insights into Vedic philosophy and the ultimate purpose of human life. Hymns and Kavachas: This section includes several hymns known as ‘kavacha’ or protective shields. These kavachas are dedicated to various deities and characters from the Ramayana, such as Sri Rama Kavacham, Hanumat Kavacham, and Sita Kavacham. The ritual recitation of these hymns is believed to fulfill any cherished desire of the devotee, providing

Phalgun month is the 11th month in a traditional Bengali calendar. The previous month was the Magh Mash. As per Gregorian calendar, the Falguna month begins in Mid February and ends in Mid March. In 2025, Phalgun Month in Bangala Calendar begins on February 14 and ends on March 14, 2025. The current year in Bengali Calendar is 1431. Purnima or full moon day in Phalgun month in 2025 is on February 13. Amavasya or no moon day in Falgun Mash is on February 27. The two Ekadashis in the month are on February 24 and March 10, 2025. Other important and auspicious days in Falguna Month include Shivratri - February 26 Dola Purnima - March 14 Dol Utsav / Holi Festival - March 14 The next month in Bengali calendar is the Chaitra month and is the last month in a Bengali Year.

Shivaratri is one of the holiest nights of the year. It is the night dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is the one who destroys that which is old and impure, in order to make room for a new creation of that which is pure and divine. Lord Shiva annihilates our egos, our attachments and our ignorance. Many fear Lord Shiva’s destructive capacity, and yet it is destruction for the purpose of regeneration. Without death, life cannot begin anew. Without the annihilation of old habits, attachments and ego, we cannot progress toward the goal of God realization. The night of Shivratri is especially auspicious for winning the battle within ourselves – the battle between the Gods and the Demons, between right and wrong, between poison and nectar, between death and immortality. Let us use our puja, our prayers, our meditations on this night to pray for the divine intervention that within ourselves the good might vanquish the evil, that the nectar within us mi

A devout Hindu, Davender Ghai, aged 71, had asked for an open-air cremation when he dies but it was denied by Newcastle city council in Britain . Davender Ghai had argued then that denying him an open-air ritual ‘will enslave his soul in endless earthly entrapment.’ This legal debate in England had taken place in March 2009. Now through an appeal in Court of Appeal, Davender Ghai won the right to be cremated on a traditional funeral pyre. Mr Ghai agreed that he was willing to be cremated within existing rules with his funeral pyre ‘enclosed in a structure.’ Dailymail.UK reports Davender Ghai was refused permission for the ceremony by Newcastle City Council and lost a challenge to that decision at the High Court in London in May last year. But today the Master of the Rolls, Lord Neuberger, who headed a panel of three appeal judges, over turned those rulings. He said: … it seems to us that Mr Ghai's religious and personal beliefs as to how his remains should be cr

The Ananda Ramayana is an important work in the Ramayana tradition, comprising nine books, each with distinct themes and narratives that enrich the core story of Rama. Among these books, the Seventh Book, known as the Rajya Kanda , stands out due to its diverse and intriguing content. Here is a detailed exploration of the Rajya Kanda: Overview The Rajya Kanda consists of 24 sargas (chapters) and 2641 shlokas (verses). This book delves into various topics, some of which are profound and philosophical, while others are anecdotal and moralistic. It offers a deeper look into the life and times of Rama after his coronation as the king of Ayodhya. Key Topics in Rajya Kanda Ramasahasranama : Ramasahasranama translates to "The Thousand Names of Rama". This segment is a hymn that glorifies Rama by listing a thousand of his epithets. Each name reflects a different attribute, quality, or deed of Rama, symbolizing his divine nature and multifaceted personality. Reciting these names is

 The Ananda Ramayana , a Sanskrit text that forms a complementary narrative to the Valmiki Ramayana, comprises several books, each detailing different events and stories connected to the main Ramayana epic. The sixth book of Ananda Ramayana is known as Vivaha Kanḍa , which translates to "The Book of Marriages." Structure and Content Vivaha Kanda is composed of 9 sargas (chapters) and 585 shlokas (verses) . The primary focus of this book is on the marriages of several key characters. The significant events and details in Vivaha Kanda include: Marriage of Kusha and Champika : Kusha , one of the twin sons of Lord Rama and Sita, is married to Champika . Champika is depicted as a princess, renowned for her beauty and virtues. The narrative describes the grand wedding ceremonies, the joyous celebrations, and the blessings bestowed upon the couple. Marriage of Lava and Sumati : Lava , the other twin son of Lord Rama and Sita, is married to Sumati . Sumati is also portrayed as a no

While searching for Mata Sita, Lord Ram and Lakshman reached a dense forest. The animals in the forest were expecting the arrival of Lord Ram as they had heard that Lord Ram is Sri Hari Vishnu. Bhushandi a crow that lived in the forest too heard about Lord Ram’s arrival but the crow was not ready to believe that Lord Ram was Vishnu. He went around arguing with others that Lord Ram was a mere human being and this was some trick of the humans to scare us animals. To prove his point, Bhushandi, the crow, started harassing Lord Ram. Finally, Lord Ram started chasing the crow. Bhushandi flew high up in the sky and to the crow’s surprise Lord Ram was their behind him. He flew up into the Himalayas and Lord Ram was there behind him. Bhushandi tried to hide in all places on earth and in sky but Lord Ram was there in all places. Finally, Bhushandi surrendered before Lord Ram and asked for his forgiveness. But Lord Ram picked up the crow and swallowed it!! Immediately,