In Hinduism, the "Elephant God" typically refers to Lord Ganesha (also spelled Ganesh or Ganapati), one of the most revered deities in the Hindu pantheon. Lord Ganesha is widely worshiped as the remover of obstacles, the patron of arts and sciences, the deva of intellect and wisdom, and the god of beginnings. He is easily recognizable by his elephant head, which symbolizes wisdom, understanding, and a discriminating intellect that one must possess to attain perfection in life. How to Pray to Lord Ganesha Praying to Lord Ganesha can be a simple, heartfelt practice or a more elaborate ritual, depending on one's devotion, tradition, and circumstances. Here’s a basic guide on how to pray to Ganesha: 1. Preparation for Prayer Cleanse Yourself: Before beginning any prayer, it is customary to bathe or wash hands and feet as a form of purification. Clean the Prayer Area: Clean the space where you intend to perform the prayer. Place a picture or idol of Lord Ganesha on a clean ...

In an article titled ‘Hinduism: Where Science andSpirituality Intersect’ in the Huffington Post Gadadhara Pandit Dasa, Hindu Chaplain, Columbia University and New York University suggests that some theories of modern science were already detailed in Vedas and Puranas. The important examples that he provides is of multiple existence of the universe, several universes and relativity of time  Some excerpts from the article   In a recent article, in the U.S. News and World Report, physicist Roger Penrose theorized that the Big Bang might be one in a cycle of such events, suggesting that the universe has had multiple existences. This is common knowledge to one familiar with Vedic philosophy and cosmology, which very clearly indicates that the universe has had many births and deaths.   The centuries-old wisdom of the Vedic texts doesn't stop there. They claim that our universe is just one of many universes, a concept entertained by modern science and referred to as "the multi...

 Overcoming negative thoughts is a challenge that many face, and Hinduism offers profound insights and practical solutions for dealing with them. Drawing from its vast spiritual wisdom, Hinduism provides various methods to transform negative thoughts into positive energy, cultivating inner peace and resilience. Here's an expanded guide: 1. Understanding the Nature of Thoughts: In Hindu philosophy, thoughts are seen as energies that can shape our reality. The mind, often compared to a monkey, can be restless and unruly. Understanding that negative thoughts are temporary and can be controlled is the first step toward overcoming them. 2. Practical Day-to-Day Solutions: A. Practice Mindfulness (Dhyaan): Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment, observing your thoughts without judgment. Regular meditation helps in calming the mind and reducing the impact of negative thoughts. How to Practice: Set aside 10-15 minutes daily for meditation. Focus on your breath, and if negati...

Goddess Chamundi Devi is one of the most popular forms of Goddess Durga. The origin of Goddess Chamundi is mentioned in the Devi Mahatmya and Markandeya Purana. While Goddess Durga was engaged in a battle with demons Chanda and Munda, Goddess Kali emerged from the forehead of Durga and killed Chanda and Munda. Pleased with Goddess Kali, Durga called her Chamundi. There is another legend which says that Goddess Chamundi appeared to lap up the blood that fell from the body of demon Rakta Bija. The demon had received the boon that a drop of blood from this body that fell on the ground will produce thousands of demons of equal strength. In this form, she is known as Rakta Chamundi. Puranas contains numerous details of Goddess Chamundi. One legend mentions that she is one among the seven forms of Shakti that came to help Shiva while he was a waging a battle with Andaka. Goddess Chamundi symbolizes death, disaster, distress and destruction of Mother Nature. Goddess Chamundi...

 In Hinduism, prayer and worship are integral parts of seeking divine protection and guidance to overcome challenges, including defeating enemies—whether they are external adversaries, inner fears, or obstacles. The concept of "enemy" can be interpreted broadly, referring not only to individuals but also to negative energies or thoughts. 1. Worship of Deities for Protection and Victory Durga Puja : Goddess Durga is a fierce protector and destroyer of evil. Devotees often worship her during the festival of Navaratri, praying for strength and the defeat of enemies. Durga Mantra : "Om Dum Durgayei Namaha" - This mantra invokes Durga's power to eliminate negative forces. Durga Saptashati : Reciting the Durga Saptashati (700 verses in praise of Durga) is believed to grant victory over adversaries. Hanuman Worship : Lord Hanuman, the embodiment of strength, courage, and devotion, is revered for his ability to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies. Hanuman Chalisa : Re...

Chanting of the Meena Rashi Navratri Mantra helps, Meen Rashi born person to attain wealth, prosperity, property, job and desire fulfillments. The mantra should be chanted after taking bath in the morning. You should sit in your pooja room or in a quiet place and chant the mantra. The mantra is ऊॅं सती नमः The mantra should be chanted 21 times. Chanting of the mantra also helps in overcoming your enemies.

Pitru Paksha period, which is dedicated to performing Shradh for the dead, begin immediately after 11-day Ganesh Chaturthi Puja. The Wada of Raje Mudhoji Bhonsle in Nagpur installs Ganesha on Anant Chaturdashi day and the festival continues for next 15 days. The festival is also known as Maskarya or Hadpakya Ganpati utsav as it commemorates a battle victory. Times of India reports Continuing with a 256-year-old tradition, the Bhonsles celebrate 11-day Ganeshotsav during pita paksha. n Friday, Mudhoji installed two idols of Ganesh in the courtyard of his home in Mahal, which as per the Hindu calendar was a chaturthi. "Our ancestor Shrimant Raje Khandoji Maharaj Bhonsle had first celebrated this utsav in 1755. This was because when he set out for Bengal for a battle, he had worshipped before the Lord to grant him victory. When he returned victorious, the Ganesh utsav had already passed off. So he once again brought in an idol and worshipped it and had a public celebration for 11...

Shila Devi Temple is located at Amer Fort in Jaipur, Rajasthan, and is dedicated to Goddess Kali.  The Navratri temple mela in 2025 is from September 22 to October 1 and the most important date is September 28, 2025 Ashwin Shukla Paksha Chhath (Sashti) - sixth day of the waxing phase of moon in Ashwin month is highly auspicious at the temple.  Shila Devi Temple Mela attracts more than 100,000 people. The murti worshipped in the temple was recovered in the form of a slab from sea. Later when the slab was washed the murti of Goddess Kali appeared. This is the reason why the murti is known as Shila Devi. The nine-day navratri festival sees the chanting of Durga Saptashati and other sacred texts.

FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) is a feeling of anxiety or apprehension that one might be missing out on an opportunity, experience, or event that others are enjoying. This feeling can lead to constant comparison, dissatisfaction, and restlessness. Hinduism, with its rich spiritual traditions and teachings, offers profound solutions to overcome FOMO. Here’s how Hindu philosophy, scriptures, and practices can help: 1. Understanding FOMO Through Hindu Philosophy Hinduism teaches that the root cause of suffering (dukkha) is attachment (raga) and ignorance (avidya) of our true self. FOMO is a form of attachment to experiences or outcomes, stemming from a belief that happiness is external. The Hindu approach is to turn inward and realize the divine presence within. Key Concepts to Understand: Aparigraha (Non-Possessiveness): Aparigraha is one of the Yamas (ethical guidelines) in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. It teaches detachment from material possessions and desires. By practicing non-attachm...

Durga Ganapati is one among the 32 forms of Ganesha. This form of Ganesh showers the affection like that of mother and protects His devotees from all evils. Durga Ganapati Mantra is Taptakanchana Sangkaashah Chashtahasto mahattanuh! Diptankusha Sharam Chaksham Dantam Dakshe Vahan Karaih!! Vaame paasham karmukam cha latam jamboom dadhata karaih! Raktamshukah Sada Bhooyat Durga Ganapatirmude!! The body tone of Durga Ganapati murti is red. He is also adorned with red-colored clothes. This form of Ganapati has 8 hands – they hold ankusha, bow, arrow, tusk, spear, kalpa creeper, indigo berry and a conch. Constant prayers to this form helps in removing sorrows. Durga Ganapati is also worshipped for avoiding troubles during travels. The Durga Ganapati form of Ganapati indeed holds rich symbolism within its eight hands, each carrying specific attributes: Ankusha (Goad): The ankusha represents control over one's mind and the ability to steer oneself away from distractions or negative i...

In Hinduism Dee Baba, is widely worshipped in South Africa and the Caribbean Islands. He is equated with the more popular Kshetrapal, worshipped in Hinduism. In Hinduism, the process of praying to any deity typically involves several elements: prayers, pujas (rituals), mantras (sacred chants), and offerings. I can provide a general guide on how to perform a Hindu prayer or puja, which you can adapt based on your specific devotion to Dee Baba or any other deity. 1. Preparation for Prayer or Puja: Cleanliness: Start by taking a bath to purify yourself. Clean the prayer area and set up a small altar or puja space with an image or idol of Dee Baba. Offerings: Prepare offerings such as flowers, fruits, incense sticks, oil lamps, water, milk, sweets, and any special food items that are significant to the deity. 2. Steps to Perform Puja (Worship): Dhyana (Meditation): Begin by sitting quietly and meditating. Focus on your breath, clear your mind, and center your thoughts on the deity (Dee ...

Facing exam fear is a common experience among students, and Hinduism offers several spiritual, psychological, and practical solutions to help manage and overcome this anxiety. The teachings of Hinduism provide a comprehensive approach, blending spiritual practices, meditation, and moral teachings with practical advice. Here is a detailed exploration of how one can face exam fear through the lens of Hindu philosophy: 1. Understanding Fear Through Hindu Philosophy In Hinduism, fear is often associated with attachment (moha) and ignorance (avidya). The fear of exams, specifically, stems from the attachment to results and the fear of failure. Hindu scriptures suggest that fear can be transcended by cultivating self-awareness and detachment (vairagya). The Bhagavad Gita, one of the most important texts in Hinduism, discusses these concepts extensively. Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 2, Verse 47) : "You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of yo...

Devi Mahatmyam extols the glory of Mother Goddess in her numerous forms – Durga, Kali, Chandi… This particular Devi Mahatmyam in pdf for download for free is in Sanskrit with English Transliteration and is provided by Gita Press. It is part of the Markandeya Purana – Chapter 81 to 93. As it consists of 700 hymns, Devi Mahatmyam is also known as Durga Saptashati. Link – Devi Mahatmyam pdf in Sanskrit Note - you will pdf reader installed to download or read the text. Holiness Of Devi Mahatmyam In Hinduism The "Devi Mahatmyam," also known as the "Chandi Path" or "Durga Saptashati," holds significant importance in Hinduism, particularly within the Shakta tradition, which reveres the Divine Feminine principle, Shakti. This sacred text is a part of the Markandeya Purana and consists of 700 verses divided into three sections or chapters. The Devi Mahatmyam glorifies the power of the Goddess, depicting her as the ultimate force who manifests to de...

Praying to Durga Maa at home is a sacred practice in Hinduism, especially during festivals like Navaratri, but devotees can worship her anytime to seek her blessings for protection, strength, and prosperity. Below is an expanded guide on how to pray to Durga Maa at home, including prayers, pujas, mantras, and additional information relevant to this worship. 1. Preparing for the Worship Before starting the puja, it's essential to prepare both your mind and the environment. Clean the Area: Clean the space where you will perform the puja. A clean and sacred space is believed to invite positive energy. Personal Cleanliness: Take a bath and wear clean clothes, preferably traditional attire like a sari or dhoti. Altar Setup: Set up an altar or a dedicated space with a picture or idol of Durga Maa. Decorate the altar with flowers, preferably red or yellow, as these colors are associated with Durga. You can also place some fruits, sweets, and water as offerings. 2. Items Required for Du...

Hindu Calendar 2012 with Tithi in pdf for free download is based on Calendars followed in North India – Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand. A month in this Hindu calendar begins after Purnima and ends on Purnima. All important festivals and fasting 2012 dates are marked in the calendar. Link – Download Hindu Calendar 2012 with Tithi in pdf If you are not comfortable using Google documents then you can use this alternative link - Hindu Calendar 2012 . (right click and use save link as option)

Bhanu Pradosha holds significance as it combines the observance of Pradosh Vrat, dedicated to Lord Shiva, with the reverence for Surya, the Sun god, represented by the term "Bhanu." This unique occurrence transpires when the 13th day of the lunar fortnight, known as Trayodashi, coincides with a Sunday, also known as Ravivar. The timing is particularly significant as it aligns with Trayodashi tithi during sunset. In 2025, Bhanu Pradosha are marked on February 9 and June 8. The observance of Pradosh Vrat itself is a revered tradition in Hinduism, where devotees fast and perform rituals to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This vrat typically falls on the 13th day of both the dark and bright lunar fortnights, known respectively as Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha, as per the traditional Hindu calendar. In South India, certain Hindu communities hold special rituals on Bhanu Pradosha, adding cultural and regional flavors to the observance. These rituals of...

Overcoming domestic violence is a deeply challenging issue, and approaching it from a Hindu perspective involves understanding both the spiritual and practical aspects. Hinduism, with its rich scriptural heritage and philosophical teachings, provides several insights and solutions that can be applied to address and overcome domestic violence. 1. Understanding Domestic Violence in Hindu Context Domestic violence is a violation of human rights and is condemned in all cultures and religions, including Hinduism. In Hinduism, every individual is seen as divine, with the potential to achieve moksha (liberation) through righteous living (dharma). Domestic violence disrupts this path and goes against the core Hindu values of non-violence (ahimsa), compassion (karuna), and righteousness (dharma). 2. Scriptural Guidance Against Domestic Violence Hindu scriptures emphasize respect, love, and equality within relationships, particularly in marriage. Several texts provide guidance on how relationshi...

Hindu marriage rituals have undergone a sea change in the last hundred years. The pure simple Vedic marriage rituals have been transformed into complex rituals. Writing on the subject in Livemint in an article titled ‘Vedic rituals recognize the marriage of equals,’ Aakar Patel introduces one of the best books published on the subject – The Vedic Hindu Marriage Ceremony (Sanskrit Text :Transcreation with English Translation) by P. Lal. Some excerpts from the book as quoted by Aakar Patel in the article The wedding begins with the purohit addressing the gathered: “Say these words to bless the wedding: ‘May all be holy (Om punyaham), may all be successful (Om riddhim), may all be well (Om svasti).”  The guests respond: “Om punyaham, Om riddhyatam, Om svasti”.  The man, karta, giving the bride away then welcomes the groom, who replies: “I am honoured (aham ase). The bride is blessed by the presence of divinity.”  The couple then receive each other with these word...

In the Hindu tradition, closing a meeting with prayers or rituals is a way to offer thanks to the divine, seek blessings, and ensure the success of the endeavors discussed. The closing prayer can be simple or elaborate, depending on the context of the meeting. Below is an expanded explanation with a few prayers, pujas, worship mantras, and relevant information. 1. Significance of Closing a Meeting with Prayer Spiritual Closure: Offering a prayer at the end of a meeting is believed to invoke divine blessings for the successful implementation of decisions taken. Positive Vibration: Reciting mantras or prayers creates a positive and sacred atmosphere, ensuring the thoughts and actions are aligned with dharma (righteousness). Gratitude and Humility: It's a way to express gratitude to the divine forces for their guidance and support. 2. Simple Prayers and Mantras to Close a Meeting Gayatri Mantra: The Gayatri Mantra is a universal prayer in Hinduism, often recited for purification a...

Sri Ram and Sita Murti in porcelain is from Lladro, a Spanish firm noted for high quality porcelain figurine. They are releasing a Limited Edition idol of Lord Rama and Sita during 2011. Sri Ram and Sita murtis are two separate pieces. Lladro has not mentioned the price. The murti are in two pieces and belong to a scene that will be completed in 2013 with two more creations, Laksmana and Hanuman. Lladro figurines are high priced and ranges above $1000. Importance Of Worshiping Sri Ram and Sita Together Worshiping Sri Ram and Sita together holds significant importance in Hindu tradition and philosophy. Here are some reasons why: Divine Union: Ram and Sita represent the ideal divine couple in Hindu mythology. Their union symbolizes the harmony between the masculine and feminine energies, often depicted as the ideal of marital bliss and partnership. Ideal Relationship: The relationship between Ram and Sita is considered exemplary in Hinduism. Ram is revered for his adherence to d...