Pushya Abhishek is an important annual ritual performed at the world famous Puri Jagannath Temple in Odisha in Paush month. Pushya Abhishek 2025 date is January 15. It is observed on the Pushya Nakshatra day in Paush month – it coincides with Paush Purnima or the full moon day in the month. Abhishek means ‘to shower’. The day is the ceremonial crowning of Lord Jagannath. He is the made the king on the day. The belief is that Trimurtis, Gods, Devas and Saints arrive to witness the Pushya Abhishek. There is a belief that the Trimurtis, Gods, Devas and Saints assembled near the sea at Puri. Therefore the sea is also worshipped on the day. It is also believed that it is a rare opportunity in a calendar year to pray to all the gods at a single holy spot. On the day special pujas are observed for peace and prosperity of all the living beings on the earth. The highlight of the day is the Samudra Aarti – or prayer to the sea. It is attended by thousands of devotees.

Margazhi (mid December – to mid January) is a holy month in Tamil Culture and is dedicated to worship and music. Food is also an important part of Margazhi culture. Special delicacies are prepared during the month. The Hindu has created a video on the traditional food prepared during the period.  Margazhi, the ninth month of the Tamil calendar, holds special significance in Tamil culture, particularly for its religious and cultural observances. During this month, many people follow certain dietary practices, especially those who are devout Hindus. Some common foods eaten during Margazhi in Tamil culture include: Pongal: This dish is a staple during the Margazhi month. It's a savory dish made of rice and lentils, often seasoned with black pepper, cumin, and curry leaves. It's typically served with coconut chutney and sambar. Kozhukattai: Also known as modakam, these are steamed dumplings made of rice flour and filled with either sweet or savory fillings. Sweet fillin

No one exactly knows there are how many versions of Ramayana in the world. T. Shankar is an independent research scholar and an avid student of the Ramayana, who explores the stories in various different versions of Ramayan. Puspha Chari talks to T Shankar about the various versions of Ramayana in the The Hindu. There is only one, yet many Ramayanas have been composed through the millennia. What do you think is the reason? Valmiki’s Ramayana and the subsequent versions were written in Sanskrit. I think poets felt the need to focus on the local language to take the great epic to the people. The subsequent Ramayanas were trans-creations and, therefore, reflect changes over time. Could you tell us some of the similarities as well as the differences of the many Ramayanas? The broad story is the same. Though Valmiki is acknowledged as aadhikavi, every writer of the original Ramayana is a poet and philosopher. And every Ramayana is a master piece. As for differences, in Valmiki

Food offered to deities in Hindu Temples in India varies from region to region and it is impossible to write about the subject in a single book as the subject matter is encyclopedic. Book titled ‘Bhog: Temple Food of India ’ attempts to explore the various types of food offered to deities in some of the important temples in India . The book is written and published by by Geeta and Arun Budhiraja. One of the highlights of the book is the images of the various divine food and the recipe. The book is priced at Rupees 3900/-.

Akanda Deepa Vrata is performed for prosperity by devotees. The main ritual involves keeping a diya (deepa or traditional lamp) lit for an entire Hindu lunar month. The Vrat begins on the first day of a Hindu lunar month – the day after Purnima in calendars followed in North India . In other regions, it is the day after Amavasya. The Akhanda Deepa is lighted on the first day. The lamp is either made of bronze or brass. The medium used to burn the lamp is cow ghee. A single diya is lit. Once lit the devotee keeps the lamp burning till the end of month (first day after Purnima to Purnima or first day after Amavas to Amavas). Each day pujas and offerings are made to the lamp. The puja involves meditation, offering simple flowers and a single fruit. On the last day of the puja, lamps are lit around the house. A puja involving family members, relatives, friends and neighbors are held. Any sweet dish is prepared and distributed as Prasad after offering to the diya. It i

Ganapathi Sachchidananda Ashrama in Mysore is preparing to consecrate a big murti of Hanuman – Karya Siddhi Hanuman idol – in Mysore . The Hanuman murti is 42 feet tall and is place on a 30 feet pedestal. The pedestal stands on Karyasiddhi Hanuman Sannidhi ( Temple ). The murti is chiseled out from a 200-tonne Grey Granite Rock. The reason for making the Hanuman Murti: Sri Ganapathy Sashichidananda Swami, the ashram chief, said - People who have faith in Hindu scriptures believe that their wishes will be fulfilled with the darshan of Hanuman. This urge of devotees made me do this. Some details about the Murti: It took 10 months for 18 sculptors to carve the murti. Subramanya Achar from Kurnool , Andhra Pradesh, headed the work. The murti is installed on a 30-feet high pedestal. The pedestal itself is on an octagonal temple. A 5-feet tall saffron Hanuman murti has also been erected to facilitate puja.

Some important spiritual values to be developed as per the Bhagavad Gita Humility, unpretentiousness, non-injury, forbearance, uprightness, service to the teacher, purity, steadiness, self-control. (Chapter 13, verse 7) The renunciation of sense objects, and also absence of egoism; reflection on the evils of birth, death, old age, sickness, and pain. (Chapter 13, verse 8) Non-attachment, non-identification of self with son, wife, home, and the rest, and constant even-mindedness in the occurrence of the desirable and the undesirable. (Chapter 13, verse 9) Unswerving devotion to Me by the Yoga of non-separation, resorting to sequestered places, distaste for the society of men. (Chapter 13, verse 10) Constant application to spiritual knowledge, understanding of the end of true knowledge: this is declared to be knowledge, and what is opposed to it is ignorance. (Chapter 13, verse 11) -------------------- The Bhagavad Gita, often referred to as the Gita, is a sacred Hindu

Book titled Sri Muruga – Legend, Short Stories and Worship by Rahul Kabade is an attempt to provide a simple and good understanding of Muruga – Son of Shiva. One of the most popular deities worshiped in Hindu pantheon in South India . Muruga is Kumaraguru – the child guru who explained the greatness of ‘OM.’ Muruga is known as Kartik in North India and western parts of India . He is popularly known as Murugan, Skanda, Sharavana and Subrahmanya in South India . The book gives a proper understanding regarding the incarnation of Muruga. Importance and meaning of the various names of Muruga like Shanmukha, Subrahmanya, Karthikeya, Guha Velayudha, Swaminatha and their meaning are explored. Stories associated with Muruga. His war against Tarakasura and Surapadman are detail. Important saints of Murugan tradition are introduced to readers. Temples of Murugan including the  Aarupadai Veedu, six abodes of Muruga are detailed. Festivals, rituals, worship and importance of

The symbolism surrounding Chandeshwar, a manifestation of the divine Shiva, is rich and multifaceted, reflecting aspects of his character, powers, and cosmic significance. In Hindu mythology and worship, every attribute and aspect carries symbolic weight, offering devotees deeper insights into the nature of the divine. Firstly, Chandeshwar represents a benevolent aspect of Shiva, emphasizing qualities of kindness and compassion. This aspect reassures devotees of Shiva's protective and nurturing presence in their lives, providing solace and guidance through life's trials and tribulations. The depiction of Chandeshwar in human form, seated on a lotus-throne, holds a plethora of symbolic objects. Each of these objects carries its own significance, contributing to the overall symbolism of the deity: Arrow, Axe, Bow, Club, Hatchet: These weapons symbolize Chandeshwar's prowess as a warrior deity, capable of vanquishing obstacles and enemies on the spiritual path. They rep

Srimad Bhagavad Gita: Solution of Life Problems is a commentary on Bhagavad Gita credited to Bengali Baba and was published in 1944. The book is currently available for free download in pdf format at the website of the Central Archaeology Library in  New Delhi . The book is a commentary of the Bhagavad Gita in English with emphasis given on how the teaching in the Gita helps in solving problems in life. Link – You can download the book here from ASI website -  Srimad Bhagavad Gita: Solution of Life Problems  (please note that in the link click on the pdf view to download the book) The other and perhaps the best option is from archive .  The pdf file size is 58.2 MB. You will need a pdf reader installed to read the book. "Srimad Bhagavad Gita: Solution of Life Problems," credited to Bengali Baba and published in 1944, offers a unique commentary on the timeless scripture, the Bhagavad Gita. This book presents the profound teachings of the Gita in a way that addresse

This Bhagavad Gita mp3 audio in Bengali is provided by the Yatharth Geeta website. Each 18 chapter of the Bhagavad Gita is divided into different mp3 files. The translation and explanation in Bengali is provided by Shri Paramahansji Maharaj. The size of the files vary from 20 MB to 44 MB. You will have to download several files to get the complete Bhagavad Gita with commentary in Bengali. Each chapter is divided into two separate files. All eighteen chapters are available for download. You can download Bhagavad Gita MP3 in Bengali here at yatharth geeta . Influence Of Bhagavad Gita In Bengali Art And Literature The Bhagavad Gita, one of the most revered texts in Hindu philosophy, has profoundly influenced Bengali art and literature over the centuries. Here are some ways in which its influence can be observed: Literature: Bengali literature has been deeply enriched by the teachings and themes of the Bhagavad Gita. Many renowned Bengali writers, including Rabindranath Tagore,

The 800th anniversary celebration of the Warangal Ramappa Temple known as the Kakatiya Festival will be held from December 21, 2012. Also known as Ramalingeshwara Temple , the temple is dedicated to Shiva and is a classic example of Kakatiya Dynasty architecture. The year long celebrations will mark 800 th anniversary of construction of Ramappa temple. The Hindu reports Inaugural functions of the celebrations will be organised for three days from December 21 at archaeological sites of Kakatiyas at Warangal --Thousand-Pillar temple and Warangal Fort besides, Ramappa temple. The celebrations will also be held at other important places, which form part of Kakatiya Empire. Why Warangal Ramappa Temple Is A Must Visit? The Ramappa Temple, also known as the Ramalingeswara Temple, located in Warangal, Telangana, is a marvel of architecture and a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India. Here's why it's a must-visit: Architectural Marvel: The Ramappa Temple i

Pearl , or Moti, in Hindu astrology is associated with moon or Chandra. One of main benefits of wearing pearl ring as per astrologers is that it helps in attaining peace of mind and it also helps in controlling the anger. Moti stone is usually etched into gold or silver ring. There is also widespread belief that pearl helps in curing heart and stomach diseases. Other benefits include: Increases the concentration power Respectable position in the society Increase of wealth Helps in improving the function of heart. Helps in curing stomach related ailments. Helps in improving relation between husband and wife. Shudh Moti or Pure Pearl helps in attaining wealth and blessing of Goddess Lakshmi. Yellow colored pearl is also worn for attaining wealth Red color pearl is worn to improve intelligence and attain more wisdom. White colored moti is worn to improve social status Blue colored pearl is worn to fulfill desires related to senses.

The path-breaking Upanishad Ganga Serial currently aired on Doordarshan is available in DVD format at Shemaroo stores. You can also buy the DVD online at Shemaroo. The first volume of DVD released has the first 17 episodes of the serial. Upanishad Ganga is a 52-episode television series produced by Chinmaya Mission and directed by Chandraprakash Dwivedi. Upanishads are the source of all the teachings of Sanatana Dharma. Features of the DVD Volume 1, Episodes 1-17 includes: Option for English subtitles Synopses  Compilation of Sanskrit verses with transliteration & translation in English from each episode Compilation of resources including books and DVDs for further reflection on the concepts from each episode Easy access to powerful scenes, songs and chants Where is it available? From all leading Shemaroo outlets throughout India . You can also buy the DVD online at Shemaroo. The DVD is priced at Rupees 999/- More information on the DVD and about the Ser

Malayalam Calendar 2001 followed in Kerala is provided by the Deepika Newspaper. The 2001 Malayalam calendar contains important festivals in Kerala and uses Malayalam language to mention Nakshatram and festival details. This Kerala calendar of 2001 of Deepika is not in pdf format but in jpeg format. But you can save the webpage or image format and use it. You can visit the newspaper website and download it here -  Deepika Malayalam Calendar 2001. You can try this link or use the main calendar link.

Chitra Gopuram and the Main Gopuram at Nambi Rayar Perumal Temple in Tirukurungudi are famous for its wooden and stone sculptures. The temple is located at around 47 km from Palayankottai in Tamil Nadu. The temple has sculptures from stories in Bhagavad Purana. Sculptures associated with Shiva are also found on the gopurams.  Pradeep Chakravarthy writes in The Hindu   Composing forms out of other forms is a favourite theme for expert sculptors. Such sculptures are rare since it involved both imagination and flawless execution. This temple has several of them, and what is remarkable in these are the sizes, both the horse and elephant are composed of several ladies and the entire image is just one and a half feet! This is even more remarkable when we are reminded that the stone used is granite – one of the hardest stones!  Vibheeshana seeking refuge before Rama leaves for Lanka is a masterful part of the epic when Valmiki teaches us the various forms of persuasion.  Vibhe

Alagar is a manifestation of Hindu God Vishnu mainly worshiped in Tamil Nadu in India . It is believed that Vishnu appeared in this form as the brother of Goddess Meenakshi (Parvathi). Legend has it that Vishnu descended from Vaikunta and appeared in the present day Alagar Koil region. He then gave his sister Meenakshi in marriage to Sundareshvara (Shiva) – the divine couple resides at Madurai Meenakshi Temple . The most famous temple dedicated to the Alagar form of Vishnu is located at around 21 km north-east of Madurai . The temple known as Alagar Koil is located on the foot of Alagar hills. Scholars are also of the view that the legend was intended to unite Shiva and Vishnu devotees. Alagar is worshiped as Kallalagar in Alagar Kovil, as Kattalagar in Srivilliputhur Temple and as Koodalagar in Madurai . The murti of Algar is flanked by Bhudevi and Sridevi. Alagar riding a horse and entering the Vaigai River is an important ritual that takes place during the

Late Ameer Hamza, who is fondly remembered as Belli Saheb, is the one who built the silver chariot at Udupi Sri Krishna Math. Belli Saheb has also made murtis in many temples in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. A practicing Muslim, the story of Belli Saheb is highly fascinating. Deepa Ganesh writes about the life of Belli Saheb in The Hindu They are not sure when it all started in their family, but Makbool, the older son of Ameer Hamza says his grandfather Sheikh Peeru saheb was a renowned silver craftsman. “My father’s initial lessons were from him.” But Peeru saheb mostly made huge silver utensils used in the temple. The little Hamza was in sixth standard when he had a tiff with his father. He was so upset that he ran away from home. It was sheer serendipity that he landed in Mysore . After working here and there to be able to fend for his food, he chanced upon the workshop of Subbanna Achar, who headed the team of silver and gold craftsmen in the pa

Koorma Nivas, Karthikeya Vanam, Mareecha Vanam, Gokulam, Chitrakooda Vanam…these are not names of places in Puranas but spots inside the Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park . The Zoo at Tirupati has numerous sections that are named after Gods, places and important incidents in epics and Puranas. Thus in Koorma Nivas named after the Kurma Avatar of Vishnu you can see Turtles and Tortoises. In Karthikeya Vanam named after Muruga you can see Peacocks; in Mareecha Vanam named after demon in Ramayana you can see deers. Naming sections of the Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park after gods, places, and incidents from Hindu epics and Puranas adds a unique and culturally rich dimension to the zoo experience. It's a thoughtful way to incorporate mythology and tradition into a modern-day attraction, allowing visitors to not only enjoy the natural beauty of the park but also learn about ancient stories and characters. The symbolism behind each name adds depth to the visitor's experience.

One of the important offerings in Shiva Temple is water. Devotees offer water to bathe the Shivling. With ground water levels in Punjab in India fast depleting some Shiva temples have resorted to diverting the water offered to Shivling to underground. Times of India reports  If in two cases head priests of temples have prepared water recharging wells to return water being offered on Shivlings to the underground water table, another priest has made a slight shift in the ritual to save water.  Interestingly, a politician played a vital role in prevailing upon religious personalities to make these environment- friendly changes at shrines and in rituals also. "Every devotee offers water on the Shivling and once BJP Rajya Sabha member Avinash Rai Khanna suggested that this water should not go waste and should be recharged. We then made a water harvesting system connected to the Shivling so that after filtration water flows back into the earth," said Swami Bhagwan Dass,

A collection of quotes on attachment from Hindu scriptures and teachers: The surest sign of a man of the highest wisdom is that he is not attracted by the pleasures of the world, for in him even the subtle tendencies have ceased. When these tendencies are strong, there is bondage; when they have ceased, there is liberation. (Yoga Vasishta) External attachment is attachment to sense objects. Internal attachment is self-identification with the ego and the modifications of the mind. The dispassionate man, absorbingly devoted to Brahman, is alone able to renounce both…He who has know the reality of Brahman cannot continue to feel attachment to this world. He who feels attachment has not known Brahman. He remains deluded and sense bound. (Adi Shankaracharya) Pitiful are those who, acting, are attached to their action’s fruits. The wise man lets go of all results, whether good or bad, and is focused on the action alone. (Bhagavad Gita) Do not cultivate too much attachment to thi

Bhakta Ramadasu was an ardent devotee of Sri Rama. He composed several spiritual songs and prayers dedicated to Vaikunta Rama at the temple of Bhadrachalam . His Keertanas are now offered by the official website of Bhadrachalam Temple for free download. Nearly 30 songs of Bhakta Ramadasu are available for download. Link – Bhakta Ramadasu Spiritual Songs Spiritual Importance Of Ramadasu Spiritual Songs and Prayers In Hinduism Ramadasu, also known as Bhadrachala Ramadasu, was a 17th-century Indian saint, devotee of Lord Rama, and a renowned composer of devotional songs and prayers. His contributions hold immense spiritual significance in Hinduism for several reasons: Devotion to Lord Rama: Ramadasu's entire life was dedicated to the worship and service of Lord Rama. His songs and prayers are deeply rooted in devotion and love for the divine. They express his personal experiences, struggles, and unwavering faith in Lord Rama. Bhakti Tradition: His compositions are part

Hanuman Bahuk is an important prayer dedicated to Hanuman and was written by Goswami Tulsidas. It is believed that Tulsidas wrote to prayer to cure  his shoulder pain. Once, Tulsidas had an excruciating pain in one of his shoulders. He then composed a poem extolling the glory and greatness of Hanuman. He also asked Hanumanji to cure his body ailments. Miraculously Tulsidas had relief from the pain. It is believed that chanting Hanuman Bahuk helps in curing various body pains, diseases, psychological problems, fear of ghosts etc. It is also chanted by those people who believe that their enemies are doing black magic against them. A person can chant Hanuman Bahuk daily as part of his normal prayers. Another method of chanting Hanuman Bahuk is by doing certain austerities for 40 days. On all forty days, Hanuman Bahuk is chanted in the morning. The person only eats vegetarian food. No smoking and drinking during the period. No gossips and no unnecessary talks. Chanting