Pishachaloka, within the complex cosmology of Hinduism, is an intriguing and mystical realm mentioned in certain Puranic texts. Although not as widely recognized as the more commonly discussed lokas like Svarga (heaven) or Patala (the netherworld), Pishacha Loka holds a unique place in the spiritual geography of Hindu mythology. It is primarily known as the abode of Yakshas, Pishachas, and other similar beings who are often considered to be nature spirits or demigods with both benevolent and malevolent tendencies. The Environment and Wonders of Pishachaloka: Pishachaloka is often depicted as a twilight realm, neither fully light nor entirely dark. It is bathed in a perpetual dusk, with an eerie, otherworldly glow illuminating the surroundings. The landscape is a surreal blend of dense forests, mystical mountains, and shimmering rivers. These rivers are said to be composed of liquid light, flowing with a luminescence that changes colors, shifting from a deep blue to an ethereal gold as

Non-Hindus are not allowed in Puri Jagannath Temple . Every year a couple of times a foreigner who is not aware of the rule enters the Puri temple and then there is a big commotion. When such an incident happens as per the temple rules (set by Pandas or priests) cleansing of the sanctum sanctorum and the traditional grand bathing of the deities take place. In the process, the temple rituals are delayed by hours and the poor soul who unknowingly broke the rule faces lot of harassment.  A foreigner can be easily identified by the temple authorities and all sort of cleansing can take place. But what about Indians who are non-Hindus? How do the temple authorities recognize non-Hindus of Asian origin? What is this silly cleansing of sanctum sanctorum and grand bathing of the deities? What are these priests cleaning? They need to clean their mind and read the Bhagavad Gita at least once. This stupidity is not Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism). These are not the teachings of Hinduism. All living

Tara and Kamala: A Comparative Study 1. Introduction: Tara and Kamala are two significant goddesses in the Hindu pantheon, each representing distinct yet interconnected aspects of divine feminine energy. While both are revered within Hinduism, their origins, symbolism, and worship practices vary, reflecting the diversity within Hindu spiritual traditions. 2. Origin and Background: Tara: Tara is a goddess with roots in both Hinduism and Buddhism. In Hinduism, Tara is one of the ten Mahavidyas, a group of ten powerful and tantric goddesses. She is often depicted as a fierce protector and is associated with qualities of compassion, protection, and salvation. In Buddhism, particularly in Tibetan Buddhism, Tara is a key deity, known for her role as a compassionate savior, helping beings across the samsara (cycle of life and death). Kamala: Kamala, also known as Kamalatmika, is another of the ten Mahavidyas in Hinduism. She is closely associated with Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prospe

A young swami – Sri Ramakrishna made you great. Swami Premananda – No Sri Ramakrishna did not make us great; he made us ‘no body.’ You also have to become no body. Wipe out all vanity and all sense of ego. Not I, not I, but thou, O Lord. Can one become a great devotee of God simply by dancing and jumping or by quoting plentifully from the scriptures? What is wanted is freedom from selfishness – freedom from egotism. Mere talk will not do in this age of action. To follow the master means to practice what he taught; otherwise, nobody can advance by just offering a few flowers or through some momentary sentimental out bursts. Not mere theory; actualize it. There has been enough talk and writing. Put the books aside and let your actions speak. The poor, the weak, the fallen and the ignorant – all these you have to make your own. And yet I warn you, that in loving one section of society you must not become hateful of the other, the rich. Swami Premananda An explanation of above

In Hindu philosophy, particularly in the Advaita Vedanta tradition, the concept of adhyaropa (superimposition) plays a crucial role in explaining the relationship between Brahman , the ultimate reality, and the manifest world, which is perceived as imperfect and limited. This concept is central to understanding the doctrine of adhyaropa-apavada and is often paired with apavada (desuperimposition) as a method for spiritual realization. The Doctrine of Adhyaropa-Apavada The doctrine of adhyaropa-apavada arises from the need to reconcile the apparent duality between Brahman, which is considered infinite and absolute, and the empirical world, which is finite and full of contradictions. According to this doctrine, the world is viewed as an adhyaropa or adhyasa —a superimposition upon Brahman. This superimposition is similar to the illusion where a snake is mistakenly perceived in a rope in dim light. Just as the snake is not real but merely an illusion projected onto the rope, the worl

The Adityas and Vasus are two distinct groups of deities in Hindu mythology, each with its own characteristics, roles, and significance within the broader framework of Hindu cosmology. While both groups are Vedic deities, they have different origins, attributes, and roles in the myths and rituals of Hinduism. Here's an expanded comparison between them: Origins and Background Adityas: Origin : The Adityas are a group of solar deities, often considered the offspring of the goddess Aditi, who symbolizes infinity and the boundless. Aditi is one of the oldest and most revered goddesses in the Vedic tradition. Number : Traditionally, there are twelve Adityas, representing the twelve months of the year or the twelve solar phases. Their names include Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, Bhaga, Anśa, Dhatri, Tvashta, Pusha, Vivasvan, Savitar, Indra, and Vishnu. Role : The Adityas are associated with the sky, cosmic order (Rta), and the protection of humanity. They are seen as benevolent deities who up

  dhyatma in Hinduism: Pertaining to the Atman In Hindu philosophy, the term "Adhyatma" is deeply rooted in the concept of the Atman, the inner self or soul. This term is integral to understanding the spiritual dimensions of Hinduism, particularly as expounded in the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita. The Significance of Adhyatma: Adhyatma and the Atman: The term "Adhyatma" is derived from two Sanskrit components: "adhi," meaning "pertaining to" or "over," and "atma," referring to the self or soul. Thus, Adhyatma refers to that which pertains to the Atman or inner self. In the context of Hindu scriptures, it indicates the innermost essence of an individual, the true self that resides within and governs the body and mind. Philosophical Context in the Upanishads: The Upanishads, which form the philosophical core of Hindu thought, frequently use the term Adhyatma to describe the exploration and realization of the Atman. The Upan

 The Adhyatma Ramayana , a 14th-century CE text believed to be part of the Brahmanda Purana , holds a significant place in the spiritual and philosophical landscape of Hinduism. This text offers a unique and elevated perspective on the epic of Ramayana , wherein Rama is portrayed not merely as a prince or an avatar of Vishnu, but as Brahman —the Supreme Reality itself. In this interpretation, Sita is seen as Prakriti or Mayashakti , the divine energy or cosmic force that manifests the universe. Core Concepts in Adhyatma Ramayana Rama as Brahman : In the Adhyatma Ramayana , Rama is not just an avatar of Vishnu, but the Brahman —the ultimate, formless, and all-pervading reality in Hindu philosophy. This identification aligns Rama with the non-dualistic (Advaita) interpretation of Vedanta, where the divine is seen as one and indivisible. By portraying Rama as Brahman , the text elevates the narrative beyond a mere story of a righteous king, transforming it into a spiritual allegory of th

Jeffrey Armstrong is an award-winning author of several books on Vedic knowledge. In an interview to the Daily Bell, Jeffrey Armstrong talks about the greatness of Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism) and Vedic knowledge and boldly states that Hindu knowledge has been and is still being repressed by people with vested interests who do not want to see the teachings of Hinduism being a viable alternative to aggressive political and religious views of the world. You can read the interview titled ‘Jeffrey Armstrong on the Mysteries of Indian Culture, the Relevance of Hindu Vedas’ here at the Daily Bell Here are some excerpts from the interview …The philosophy of India is very clear. We human beings are here with the ability to utilize our free will and the spectrum is anywhere from enlightened to 'endarkened.' … India 's teachings have always stood for a renewable and cooperative relationship with the resources of the universe and the freedom of individuals. …Religion is the wrong word

Poush Masa, also known as Pushya Masam, is the tenth month in a traditional Hindu Telugu calendar followed in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Poush Masa 2025 is from December 31, 2024 to January 29, 2025. Bhogi, Sankranti and Banashankari Jayanti are observed in the Pausha month. Sankranti is on January 14. Sankatahara Chavithi dedicated to Vinayaka in Poush Masa in 2025 is on January 17 – Moonrise or Chandrodaya is at 8:57 PM – Indian Standard Time. Telugu Paush Masa Shukla Paksha and  Krishna  Paksha Paush Masa 2025 Shukla Paksha (Waxing phase of moon) is from December 31, 2024 to January 13, 2025. Telugu Poush Masam 2025 Krishna Paksha (Waning phase of moon) is from January 14 to January 29, 2025. Ekadasi Fasting Dates in Telugu Poush Masa are: Putrada Ekadasi – January 10 Shattila Ekadashi – January 25 Pradosham Fasting Dates in Telugu Poush Masa are: Pradosh – January 11 (Shani Pradosh) Pradosh – January 27 (Som Pradosh)

The story of "Shadow Sita" in the Adhyatma Ramayana , a Sanskrit text embedded within the larger Brahmanda Purana , offers a unique interpretation of the Ramayana narrative, diverging significantly from Valmiki's original version. This variation is central to the theological and philosophical message of the Adhyatma Ramayana , which emphasizes the divine nature of Rama and Sita. The Concept of Shadow Sita In the Adhyatma Ramayana , before the episode of the golden deer, Rama, who is fully aware of the impending events, instructs Sita to enter a fire for her protection. As she does so, a divine illusion, or maya , creates a "Shadow Sita" ( Chhaya Sita ), who takes her place and is subsequently abducted by Ravana. This shadow Sita endures all the trials and tribulations, including the time in Lanka, while the real Sita remains safe, hidden in the elemental fire ( Agni ). At the end of the war, during the Agni Pariksha (fire ordeal), the shadow Sita re-enters the

Disappearance of Sri Ram from earth happened when he entered voluntarily into the Sarayu River . This divine event is described as the death of Lord Rama. The story of the disappearance of Sri Ram is mentioned in many Hindu scriptures. This story of His death is from the Padma Purana. Note - Many people wanted to know how Sri Ram died? Death is not a term used with Avatars of Vishnu. All Avatars appear to restore Dharma and then they return to Vaikunta. Bhagavan Sri Ram ruled for several years and performed numerous yajnas for the benefit of his people. His sons and the sons of his brothers were made kings in many part of the large empire that he ruled. During this period Sita Devi also disappeared from earth when she was taken back by Bhudevi (Mother Earth). One day an old Saint came to Sri Ram and asked him for a private audience. The Saint said that no one should enter the room in which they were having the conversation. Sri Ram directed Lakshman to guard the door of the

The Adhyatma Ramayana , like the original Valmiki Ramayana , is divided into seven sections or books known as "kandas." These are Balakanda (Book of Childhood), Ayodhya Kanda  (Book of Ayodhya), Aranyakanda (Book of the Forest), Kishkindha Kanda  (Book of Kishkindha), Sundarakanda (Book of Beauty), Yuddhakanda (Book of War), and Uttarakanda (Book of the Aftermath). The key difference in naming is found in the sixth book, Yuddhakanda , which is occasionally referred to as Laakakanda in the Adhyatma Ramayana. Lankakanda in Adhyatma Ramayana The Lankakhanda or Laakakanda is essentially an alternate designation for the Yuddhakanda, focusing on the war between Rama's forces and Ravana's army in Lanka. This portion of the epic recounts the intense battles that take place, culminating in the defeat of Ravana and the rescue of Sita. The Lankakhanda also highlights the virtues of Lord Rama, the devotion of Hanuman, and the loyalty of Rama’s allies. The Context of the A

The Handicrafts and Handlooms Exports Corporation of India Ltd (HHEC), a public sector undertaking (Ministry of Textiles) Government of India, is now selling handicrafts, handloom and garments online. One of the items on sale is the Kondapalli Dashavatar Set – idols of the ten incarnations or Avatar of Hindu God Vishnu. The Kondapalli Toys are not just decorative items to the people of Andhra Pradesh. They are objects of pride to the Telugu people all across the world. It reflects their cultural heritage and is the essence of their crafting skills. There are several processes involved in the making of Kondapalli Toys. In fact it is very interesting to watch these beautiful toys being made. The craftsmen first carve the Puniki wood to give it the shape of a toy. One is amazed to learn that this white colored wood is specially grown in and around the village of Kondapalli for producing the Kondapalli Toys. The wood is stuffed with sawdust and tamarind seed paste. You can find more detail

Bhagavan Sri Ram had revealed universal truth at many junctures in the Ramayana and also in the Yoga Vasistha. Here are few quotes of Sri Rama A frog caught by a serpent, while sitting in the latter’s mouth with half its body already swallowed, puts out its tongue and tries to catch hold of the small flies that happen to come near it. Similarly man, even when he is already caught by the serpent of Time, searches for sense enjoyments which are transitory. He works hard day and night undergoing much trouble to get them. If you have patience, then you will never have any enemy. The mind is never satisfied even when it has an object of desire in its grasp, just as a pot that leaks is never filled with any quantity of water. There is nothing to be found on earth, big or small, of which Time does not make an end.  Dharma (righteousness) is the essence of life. It is better to live your own destiny imperfectly than to live an imitation of somebody else's life with

Bhagavad Gita with Shankaracharya commentary, or Gita with Shankara Bhashya, is one of the most quoted commentaries of the Bhagavad Gita. Now you can download the Gita Shankara Bhashya in pdf format for free or listen to audio reading online. This is a 1901 AD translation of Bhagavad Gita Shankaracharya Commentary into English by Alladi Mahadeva Shastri. The book is part of the archive project and you can read it online or listen to it online or download it in pdf format. Link - Bhagavad Gita Shankaracharya Commentary Online Link - Gita Shankara Bhashya download in pdf format Link – You can also listen to the audio of the text here in English.

Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar and Velu Nachiyar are two iconic queens in Indian history, known for their exceptional leadership, courage, and devotion to their people. Both women ruled in different regions and under different circumstances, yet their legacies are marked by similar virtues of bravery, governance, and a deep sense of responsibility toward their subjects. Here's a detailed comparison between the two: 1. Historical Context and Background Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar (1725-1795) : Region : Malwa region in central India, primarily ruling from the city of Maheshwar. Family : Born in the village of Chondi in Maharashtra, she was married to Khanderao Holkar, the son of Malhar Rao Holkar, a prominent Maratha ruler. Reign : After the death of her husband and later her father-in-law, Ahilyabai ascended the throne in 1767. She ruled for nearly 30 years. Velu Nachiyar (1730-1796) : Region : Sivagangai in Tamil Nadu, southern India. Family : Born into the royal family of Ramanathapuram,

This Shirdi Sai Baba Painting was provided by Vikas Nandlal from Andheri (w) in Mumbai India . The words of Vikas Nandlal about the painting. I sketched on paper and then retouched significantly in Adobe Photoshop software. While trying to observe carefully physical features of Saibaba, I have attempted to include little imagination element with colors to try replicate a model kind of effect, as divinity is formless and with conviction that one day Baba would give darshan to devotee in the form they adore the most .Though I wish I could give it a dark background frame or something instead of white but not so much conversant with Photoshop. click on the image for a larger view If you wish to contact Vikas Nandlal, you can do it by e-mail - saiism@yahoo.com or nandlalvikas@yahoo.com Image copyrighted to Vikas Nandlal.

A collection of quotes and thoughts of Guru Dattatreya. Lack of enquiry is sure means to destruction. On the other hand, one who is given to deliberation, triumphs and attains what he wants. The enquiring spirit is the sprouting seed of the tree of happiness. The person of enquiring disposition outshines others. Persons incapable of reflection are like the frogs in the well. The frogs in the well know nothing good or bad and perish in the well itself. Similarly, in the well of universe, there are persons, who are totally ignorant who go through birth and death repeatedly and who do not know that is good to oneself. Because of lack of discrimination, they see pain as pleasure and pleasure as pain and undergo torment of transmigration. Worldly bonds cause distress again and again but people do not discard them. Man undergoing repeated birth and death is akin to the ass, which despite being kicked again and again by her seeks the company of she-ass. You may also li

In Hindu cosmology, the concept of lokas (worlds or realms) is significant, with each loka representing a different plane of existence. While many traditions enumerate fourteen lokas, some texts, like certain Puranas, mention only eight, one of which is Yakshaloka —a realm where the Yakshas and other similar beings reside. Yakshaloka: The Enigmatic Realm of the Yakshas Yakshas and Their Nature: Yakshas are a class of supernatural beings often associated with wealth, nature, and fertility. They are considered to be benevolent, albeit sometimes mischievous, spirits who serve as guardians of treasures hidden in the earth. They are closely linked to Kubera, the god of wealth, who is their king. Yakshas are depicted as both male (Yakshas) and female (Yakshinis), and their appearance varies from beautiful, enchanting beings to more fearsome, protective forms. The Wonders of Yakshaloka: Yakshaloka is a realm rich in natural beauty and treasures, reflecting the Yakshas' role as guardian

Introduction to Maruts and Vishvedevas In Hinduism, Maruts and Visvedevas are both groups of deities, each with their distinct attributes, roles, and significance in the Vedic tradition. They are mentioned prominently in the Vedas, the oldest scriptures of Hinduism, and play unique roles in the cosmology and rituals of the religion. Maruts: The Storm Gods Nature and Attributes Origins : The Maruts are a group of storm gods, often depicted as the companions of Indra, the king of gods and the god of thunderstorms and rain. They are associated with the natural phenomenon of storms and are believed to control the winds, thunder, lightning, and rain. Depictions : The Maruts are typically depicted as fierce, young warriors adorned with golden armor, riding chariots pulled by swift horses. They are known for their strength, speed, and valor. Vedic References : In the Rigveda, the Maruts are often invoked in conjunction with Indra and are celebrated for their power and ferocity. They are descr

This specific version of the Bhagavad Gita is tailored for children in grades 1 to 5. You can easily access the Bhagavad Gita for Kids in PDF format. While it isn't a direct translation of the Bhagavad Gita, it includes engaging stories, examples of the Gita's impact on people, significant quotes, discussions on its importance, and even recounts the narrative of the Mahabharata. The focus is primarily on captivating narratives rather than deep philosophical teachings, making it accessible and engaging for young readers. The aim of the book is twofold: to spark children's interest in the Bhagavad Gita and to impart valuable lessons rooted in Hindu tradition. Furthermore, the Bhagavad Gita for kids features a comprehensive introduction section, including prayers and their meanings, as well as insights into the significance of the Gita from renowned individuals. This introduction serves to set the stage for young readers, providing context and instilling the importance of th

The phrase "One who has only one tooth tells tales about the fig tree" originates from an ancient Hindu teaching. This saying is often used metaphorically to describe someone who exaggerates their own importance or knowledge, despite having little or no real experience or wisdom. The fig tree, especially the Banyan tree, holds a sacred place in Hinduism, symbolizing knowledge, longevity, and shelter. When combined with the imagery of a person with only one tooth, it highlights the contrast between true wisdom and superficial understanding. Modern-Day Relevance In the modern context, this teaching is highly relevant as it highlights the importance of humility and self-awareness. In today's world, where misinformation and half-truths are rampant, it serves as a reminder to critically evaluate the sources of information and the credibility of those who disseminate it. The metaphor encourages people to seek knowledge from those who have genuine understanding and experience ra