Lajja Gauri is an important manifestation of Mother Goddess (Shakti) and in this is form today she is mainly worshipped by Shakti worshippers and Tantrics. Lajja Gauri has a lotus head and her legs are shown as raised – in giving birth form. Thus she is fertility goddess. Symbolically this form of Mother Goddess indicates that all that is living and nonliving was born from her. She is life, creativity and abundance. This form was widely worshipped till the 13 th century. Images quite similar to Lajja Gauri have been unearthed from Harappa indicating that this form of Mother Goddess was worshipped from ancient times.  Many scholars are also of the view that Lajja Gauri has close similarities to Aditi – the Mother Goddess mentioned in the Rig Veda. Most modern stories associated with Lajja Gauri equate her with Goddess Parvati. In these stories, Shiva tests Her modesty and a shy Goddess Parvati bows down her head or is replaced with lotus. These stories seem to be an attempt by modern

The symbol "Om," also spelled "Aum," holds immense significance in Hinduism, representing various aspects of the religion's philosophical and spiritual beliefs. Here are some reasons why Om is considered the universal symbol of Hinduism: Cosmic Sound: In Hindu philosophy, Om is believed to be the primordial sound of the universe from which all creation emanates. It represents the essence of the ultimate reality, often referred to as Brahman, which is beyond the limitations of time, space, and causation. Representation of Trinity: Om symbolizes the three main aspects of the divine: creation (Brahma), preservation (Vishnu), and destruction (Shiva), known collectively as the Trimurti. The three syllables of Om (A-U-M) correspond to these aspects, with 'A' representing creation, 'U' representing preservation, and 'M' representing destruction or dissolution. Symbol of Unity: Om is considered a symbol of the underlying unity of all exist

The Hindu Om (Aum) symbol and the Christian Cross are among the most recognizable and revered religious symbols in the world. Both carry deep spiritual meanings and are central to the practices and beliefs of their respective religions. Let's delve deeper into their significance, similarities, differences, and their relevance in the modern day. 1. Origins and Symbolism Hindu Om Symbol : Origins : The Om symbol, sometimes spelled Aum, originates from ancient India and is deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy, as well as other Dharmic religions like Buddhism and Jainism. Symbolism : Om is considered the primal sound of the universe, representing the essence of the ultimate reality or consciousness (Brahman). It is composed of three Sanskrit letters – A, U, and M – which symbolize the triad of Hindu cosmology: the states of waking, dreaming, and deep sleep, or creation, preservation, and destruction. Lesser-Known Facts : Om is believed to have vibrational qualities that align with the fre

Garbha Sanskar was a must for pregnant women in a joint family system but it is today a forgotten Hindu tradition – thanks to the nuclear family. Garba Sanskar is taking care of the growing fetus in a mother’s womb based on the belief that the baby in the womb is sensitive to the physical, mental or emotional perceptions experienced by the mother. Garbh Sanskar was very popular among Hindus but last two decades saw this great tradition being neglected by couples. Now several individuals and organizations are making an effort to bring back the Garbha Sanskar rituals. The ritual is seeing a revival in Nagpur in Maharashtra , India . The Sanskar makes sure that a healthy baby is born. It is also reduces the chances of premature birth, birth defects and miscarriage. Times of India reports During pregnancy, the emotional perceptions experienced by the mother affects the well-being of the child. It is believed that chanting Sanskrit shlokas, reading biographies of famous personalities enc

The ancient Hindu teaching that "a man’s greatest enemy is the anger in his heart" emphasizes the destructive nature of anger and the importance of self-control and inner peace. This wisdom, deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy, continues to resonate in today’s world, where stress and emotional turmoil are prevalent. Understanding the significance of anger management from a spiritual and psychological perspective can lead to a more harmonious life, both internally and externally. The Significance of Anger in Hindu Philosophy In Hindu philosophy, anger (krodha) is considered one of the six enemies of the mind, known as Ariṣaḍvarga (the six enemies). These are kāma (desire), krodha (anger), lobha (greed), moha (delusion), mada (pride), and mātsarya (jealousy). Anger is particularly dangerous because it clouds judgment, impairs rational thinking, and often leads to actions that one might later regret. Stories and Quotes from Hindu Scriptures Bhagavad Gita : In the Bhagavad G

Rani Abbakka Chowta and Naika Devi are two prominent warrior queens from Indian history who played crucial roles in defending their kingdoms against foreign invasions. Despite belonging to different regions and timelines, both queens demonstrated extraordinary valor and leadership, becoming symbols of resistance against colonial and external forces. Their stories inspire modern-day Hindus and Indians, reflecting the strength and resilience of women in Indian history. Historical Background Rani Abbakka Chowta Rani Abbakka Chowta was the queen of Ullal, a small principality in the Tulu Nadu region of Karnataka, during the 16th century. She belonged to the Chowta dynasty, a Jain dynasty that ruled parts of coastal Karnataka. Rani Abbakka is best known for her resistance against the Portuguese, who sought to control the rich spice trade in the region. Her repeated defiance and military acumen earned her the title of "The First Woman Freedom Fighter of India." Naika Devi Naika Dev

Shikshapatri, originally written by Sri Swaminarayan, is the most important holy scripture of the Swaminarayan sect. It is read daily by the Swaminarayan devotees and consists of 212 verses.  Swaminarayan Bhuj Mandir is now offering the Shikshapatri in English in pdf format with meaning and explanations.  The holy text consists mainly what the Swaminarayan devotees are expected to follow in life. Link - Download Shikshapatri pdf Note – You will need pdf reader installed to read or download the book. The Main Messages Of Shikshapatri The Shikshapatri is a sacred text written by Lord Swaminarayan, the founder of the Swaminarayan Sampradaya, a Hindu denomination. It was written in Sanskrit in 1826 and contains the ethical and spiritual principles to guide devotees towards leading a pious and righteous life. Some of the main messages of the Shikshapatri include: Devotion to God: The primary message is to foster unwavering devotion and love for God. It emphasizes the importance of worsh

 The ancient Hindu teaching that "Evil-minded people will find fault even in virtues" reflects a deep understanding of human nature and psychology. This concept, often echoed in various scriptures and teachings, emphasizes the idea that those with malice or negativity in their hearts are likely to distort reality, perceiving even the most virtuous acts through a lens of criticism and fault-finding. The teaching warns that such people, driven by jealousy, anger, or ignorance, may refuse to acknowledge goodness, instead choosing to misinterpret or undervalue it. Modern-Day Relevance In today's world, this teaching remains remarkably relevant. The tendency to criticize or belittle the efforts of others, often out of jealousy or insecurity, is prevalent. Whether in the workplace, social media, or personal relationships, the impulse to focus on the flaws rather than appreciate the virtues is a common human failing. The internet age has amplified this behavior, where anonymity

Bhim Chandi Jayanti is associated with the victories of Bhima, the second of the Pandavas. Bhim Chandi Jayanti 2024 date is August 21. In the Mahabharata, Yudhisthira performs a Rajasuya Yajna and his four brothers were sent in four directions to thwart the enemies of Pandavas. Bhima proceeded towards the east and here he defeated numerous kings of the region. Bhim Chandi Jayanti is mainly is observed in the Vindhyachal region and it celebrates these victories of Bhim. It is observed on the second day of the Krishna Paksha of Bhadrapad month (August – September) as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in  North India .

Rani Abbakka Chowta and Sethu Lakshmi Bayi are two remarkable queens from India’s history. They are celebrated for their leadership, resistance against foreign invasions, and contributions to their respective regions. While their contexts and eras differ, both women exemplify courage, wisdom, and devotion to their people and culture. Let's explore their stories in detail, highlighting their similarities, differences, importance, and their relevance to modern-day Hindus. 1. Background and Historical Context Rani Abbakka Chowta (1525–1570) Region and Dynasty : Rani Abbakka Chowta hailed from the Chowta dynasty, which ruled over Ullal, a small principality near Mangalore in present-day Karnataka. Time Period : She ruled in the 16th century, during a period marked by the aggressive expansion of the Portuguese in the western coast of India. Role and Leadership : Abbakka was the first Tuluva queen to oppose the Portuguese colonization. She was known for her strategic military skills and

VT Seva is a volunteer driven service organization founded by Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji. The provide opportunity for individuals who are interested in serving the poor and underprivileged especially in education and relief programs. VT Seva stands for Volunteering Together for Service/Seva.  VT Seva serves the underprivileged children from remote tribal areas by providing quality education for free. They are also actively involved in serving the low socio-economic blind children by providing high quality education with the usage of latest technology to make them self reliant. VT Seva is a volunteer driven non-profit service organization and each and every volunteer can make a positive difference in someone’s life. You can get more detailed information about VTSEVA here at their website. (the website is no longer available)

The concept of restraint in prosperity is deeply embedded in Hindu philosophy and teachings, where the practice of self-control, especially during times of abundance, is seen as a mark of true virtue. This idea is encapsulated in the concept of Dama (self-restraint) and Tyaga (renunciation), which are core principles in Hindu ethics. These virtues are extolled in various scriptures, stories, and teachings that guide individuals on the path of righteousness (Dharma). Scriptural References Bhagavad Gita : One of the most revered texts in Hinduism, the Bhagavad Gita , speaks about the importance of equanimity in success and failure, gain and loss, and pleasure and pain. Lord Krishna advises Arjuna in Chapter 2, Verse 47: "You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself to be the cause of the results of your activities, nor be attached to inaction." This verse underscores the virtue of performin

The practice regarding the handling of a child's death in Hindu families is rooted in various cultural and religious beliefs. In Hinduism, death rituals vary based on regional customs, family traditions, and the specific circumstances surrounding the death. When a child passes away in a Hindu family, several factors may influence the chosen method of disposal for the body. One significant consideration is the timing in relation to the naming ceremony, known as the Namakarana. If the child dies before the Namakarana, the body is typically buried rather than cremated. This aligns with the belief that without a name, the soul hasn't fully integrated into the physical form, and thus, cremation may not be appropriate. However, if the Namakarana ceremony has already taken place before the child's death, the family may choose either burial or cremation, depending on their customs and preferences. Furthermore, there's a general guideline followed by many Hindu communities

Jahnavi is a Sanskrit online journal with thought provoking articles from scholars. All articles are in Sanskrit and the journal aims to make the modern generation aware of our tradition and heritage. The journal is a must read for all Sanskrit lovers. About the e-Journal Jahnavi Passing through transition time phase our India needs that the vacuum between our traditional root value, heritage and modern young generation must be covered. As first Sanskrit E-Journal (Jahnavi Sanskrit E-Journal) a part of Sarsvat-Niketanam family is oriented to connect our new generation with this divine language which is the base of our root, identity and originality. To change public negative mindset towards of Sanskrit and to provide platform to creative thought and analysis related with Sanskrit on internet are our main priorities. For successful journey this mission expects a support of Sanskrit and Sanskriti lovers like you. You can read Sanskrit e-journal Jahnavi here. (like most Hindu websites t

Rani Abbakka Chowta and Rani Tarabai Bhonsle are two prominent figures in Indian history, celebrated for their leadership, bravery, and defiance against foreign powers. Both women led their respective regions in fierce resistance against powerful adversaries, showcasing remarkable qualities of governance, military strategy, and devotion to their people. This comparison seeks to highlight their unique contributions, the significance of their actions, and how their legacies inspire modern-day Hindus. Rani Abbakka Chowta (1523-1629): The Warrior Queen of Tulu Nadu Background and Historical Context: Rani Abbakka Chowta was a queen of Ullal, a small principality in the Tulu Nadu region of Karnataka. She hailed from the Chowta dynasty, which followed a matrilineal system of succession. Her reign is primarily remembered for her fierce resistance against Portuguese colonialists, who sought to control the spice trade and impose their dominance over the western coast of India. Military Prowess a

Goddess Savitri is a manifestation of Goddess Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of learning and arts. As Savitri, She is the consort of Hindu God Brahma. A story in the Puranas suggests why Goddess Saraswati appeared as Goddess Savitri. Brahma once wanted to conduct a yajna. But he had no wife – as per Vedic rule a man without a wife could not conduct a yajna. So Brahma requested Goddess Saraswati to be his spouse and sit by the side of him in the yajna. Saraswati agreed to be the consort of Brahma and said that she will appear in the form of Savitri to be the consort. Thus Saraswati appeared as Goddess Savitri to be the divine consort of Brahma. There is another story associated with Goddess Savitri and Brahma. The story shows the close link between Savitri and Goddess Gayatri. It states that after agreeing to be the consort of Brahma, Savitri left to purify herself. Hours passed but Savitri did not appear for the yajna. So Brahma looked around and saw a milkmaid. He

Book titled Vishnu Temples of Kanchipuram by R. Nagaswamy attempts to unravel the history, stories, location, architecture and other aspects of the beautiful temples dedicated to Vishnu in Kanchipuram. The book provides new insights into the sculptures that are part of the Vishnu Temples. An important highlight of the book is the many photographs that help as a visual aid. The book is ideal for those who are interested in temple sculpture and architecture and also for those who want to learn about the numerous sculptures and stories that adorn the walls of some of the important Vishnu temples in Kanchipuram. The book is currently in hardbound and is costly by Indian standards. Hope the paperback edition will be less costly but no information about it. You can read more about the book and also buy it online here at DK Printworld Vishnu Temples of Kanchipuram Author - R. Nagaswamy Published by – D.K. Printworld Price – Rs 4320/-

This saying beautifully encapsulates the essence of resilience and compassion, two core principles in Hindu philosophy. The lotus, often used as a symbol in Hinduism, represents purity, enlightenment, and self-regeneration. The mountain, on the other hand, signifies stability, endurance, and unyielding strength. Ancient Hindu Teaching The Lotus and The Heart : In Hinduism, the lotus is deeply symbolic. It grows in muddy waters but remains untouched by the dirt around it, signifying purity and spiritual enlightenment. The lotus is often associated with deities like Vishnu and Lakshmi, representing divine beauty and grace that flourish amidst challenges. The "wise heart" in this teaching symbolizes an enlightened individual who, like the lotus, remains pure, compassionate, and kind even in favorable conditions (sunshine). The Mountain and Resilience : Mountains in Hindu scriptures represent firmness, strength, and the unyielding nature of truth and righteousness (Dharma). In th

The commentary of Sri Shankaracharya on the Bhagavad Gita is one of the most popular commentaries on the Bhagavad Gita. Now you can read online the English translation of Sri Shankaracharya 's Sanskrit Commentary by Swami Gambhirananda. The Sanskrit version of the Shankaracharya Gita Bhashyam is also available on the website. The translation is provided by Gita Supersite. Link  –  Bhagavad Gita Shankaracharya Commentary in English Important note – click on the enter key on the site. Then select the Shankaracharya  Gita Bhashya Bhagavad Gita Shankaracharya Commentary In Nutshell Shankaracharya's commentary on the Bhagavad Gita can be distilled into a few key points: Advaita Vedanta: Shankaracharya emphasizes the non-dualistic philosophy, asserting that the individual self (atman) and the universal consciousness (Brahman) are ultimately one and the same. This realization is central to spiritual liberation. Maya: He discusses Maya, the power of illusion, which veils the true

Rani Chennamma and Velu Nachiyar were two formidable queens in Indian history who played significant roles in resisting colonial oppression and defending their kingdoms. Although their stories are distinct in time, place, and context, both exemplify the spirit of resistance and valor that continues to inspire modern-day Hindus. Background and Early Life Rani Chennamma (1778–1829), also known as Kittur Rani Chennamma, was born in Kakati, a small village in the present-day state of Karnataka. She became the queen of the princely state of Kittur after marrying Raja Mallasarja. Chennamma was trained in horse riding, sword fighting, and archery from a young age, which later proved crucial in her leadership against the British East India Company. Velu Nachiyar (1730–1796), the queen of Sivagangai in Tamil Nadu, was similarly well-versed in martial arts, including archery and horse riding. Born into a royal family, she was educated in various languages, including French, English, and Urdu,

Naladiyar is a Tamil classic literary work – teachings on morality, virtue, wealth and love. The seed of the banyan tree, though exceedingly small, grows into a large tree and affords abundant shade; in like manner, however small may be the benefit of a virtuous act, it covers as it were the face of heaven. Learning is the best of all wealth; it is easy to carry, thieves cannot steal it, the tyrants cannot seize it; neither water nor fire can destroy it; and far from decreasing, it increases by giving. Understand that these things are unstable which thou deemest stable. Therefore do quickly the duties in thy power to perform if thou wouldst do them at all, for the days of life are gone, and even now death is come. The excellent will not be hot and angry when their inferiors oppose them and utter bad words. The patience shown by one who has the power and ability to oppress others is patience indeed. The wrath of an ignorant will continue to spread and run on a

In deep sleep and in meditation, thinking disappears. In deep sleep awareness also disappears, but in meditation it remains. Mind means memory, there can be no contemporary mind. Awareness means to be in the present moment so totally that there is no movement towards the past, no movement towards the future. All movement stops. Through achievement the ego is fulfilled; so you must achieve something. You must be able to attach something to yourself that you can claim as mine: my achievement. Osho The statement "Mind means memory, there can be no contemporary mind" suggests a perspective that the mind is essentially a product of memory, and therefore, it cannot be considered "contemporary" in the sense of being entirely detached from past experiences or influences. Let's delve deeper into this concept: Mind and Memory : Memory plays a crucial role in shaping the mind. Our experiences, knowledge, emotions, and perceptions are all stored in memory and contribute to

Rani Chennamma and Rani Chennabhaira Devi  were two prominent queens in Indian history, both remembered for their bravery, leadership, and significant contributions to their respective regions. Though they lived in different periods and ruled different territories, their stories continue to inspire modern-day Hindus, particularly in the context of resilience, governance, and cultural patronage. 1. Historical Backgrounds Rani Chennamma (1778-1829) Region : Rani Chennamma was the Queen of Kittur, a princely state in present-day Karnataka. Time Period : She ruled in the early 19th century, specifically from 1824 until her death in 1829. Notable Achievements : Rani Chennamma is celebrated for her defiance against British colonial rule. In 1824, she led an armed rebellion against the British East India Company to protect her kingdom from annexation after the death of her husband and her son. Her leadership and military tactics in the Kittur War of 1824 are particularly noteworthy. Rani Che