In Tamilnadu, there are numerous temples known for their association with marriage and for seeking blessings for early marriage. Here are ten temples you might consider visiting: Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam: Dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, this temple is one of the largest functioning Hindu temples in the world and is believed to bless devotees with happy marriages. Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai: This iconic temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar is renowned for its architectural splendor and is considered auspicious for marriage. Thiruthani Murugan Temple: Situated atop a hill, this temple dedicated to Lord Murugan is believed to bless devotees with marital harmony and is particularly sought after by those seeking early marriage. Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Chennai: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple is known for its vibrant festivities and is considered auspicious for seeking blessings for a happy married...

Samharabhairava (Samhara Bhairava) is one of the eight forms of Bhairava, known collectively as the Ashta Bhairavas . These forms represent different aspects of Shiva's powers, primarily revolving around destruction and protection. Samharabhairava is particularly significant for his association with destruction , specifically annihilating enemies and negative forces. His name itself is derived from the Sanskrit words "Samhara" (destruction or annihilation) and "Bhairava" (a fierce form of Shiva), indicating his role as a powerful, destructive force. Origin and Stories According to the Vamana Purana , Samharabhairava appeared when Lord Shiva was engaged in a fierce battle with Andhakasura , a powerful demon who had attained immense strength through boons. Andhakasura symbolizes ignorance and blindness (both spiritual and literal), and Samharabhairava emerged as an extension of Shiva's fury during this battle. As Andhakasura multiplied his forms during the fi...

Vighnaraja Bhairava is one of the eight fierce manifestations of Lord Bhairava, also known as Ashta Bhairavas . Each form of Bhairava holds a distinct energy and purpose within the Shaivite tradition, and Vighnaraja Bhairava is renowned for his power to remove obstacles for those who follow Dharma (righteousness) and create impediments for those who engage in evil or adharma. The name "Vighnaraja" itself is composed of two words: Vighna (obstacles) and Raja (king), symbolizing that he is the ruler over obstacles and impediments. Origin and Mythology According to the Vamana Purana , the Vighnaraja form of Bhairava appeared during Lord Shiva's battle with the demon Andhakasura , a powerful asura (demon) who represents ignorance and blind desire. Andhakasura had grown arrogant and attempted to take control of the universe. In response to this, Shiva took on multiple forms of Bhairava, and Vighnaraja Bhairava emerged specifically to weaken Andhakasura’s forces by instilli...

Ugraraja Bhairava , one of the Ashta Bhairavas (eight forms of Bhairava), represents the fierce and terrifying aspect of Lord Shiva. The Ashta Bhairavas, each ruling over different directions, elements, and forces of the cosmos, embody various aspects of destruction, protection, and regeneration. Ugraraja Bhairava is a form primarily associated with immense ferocity and warlike energy, a symbol of uncontrollable power that destroys evil and chaos. Importance of Ugraraja Bhairava The form of Ugraraja Bhairava is significant in Hinduism for the following reasons: Destruction of Demonic Forces: As per the Vamana Purana , Ugraraja Bhairava appeared when Lord Shiva was locked in a fierce battle with the demon Andhakasura. Andhaka, born from Shiva's own sweat, had turned into a powerful and evil entity due to a curse. Ugraraja was invoked to deal with this menace when ordinary means of battle proved ineffective. Embodying Divine Wrath: Ugraraja represents the unbridled wrath of Shiva, ...

Devaraja Form of Bhairava is a highly significant and powerful manifestation of Lord Bhairava, one of the fierce forms of Lord Shiva. Bhairava is often considered a protector and a destroyer of negative energies, symbolizing the fierce aspect of the divine. Among the eight forms of Bhairava, collectively known as Ashtabhairavas , Devaraja Bhairava is distinct for his role in the battle against the demon Andhakasura and his embodiment of divine energies. Importance of Devaraja Bhairava: Devaraja Bhairava is revered for his association with divine energy, protection, and destruction of evil. According to Vamana Purana , this form of Bhairava emerged during Shiva’s battle with Andhakasura , a demon who represented ignorance and darkness. In this incarnation, Devaraja Bhairava is said to have drawn upon the collective energies of all the Devas (gods) and exhibited a dazzling, beautiful form, radiant with immense power. His form was capable of wielding both known and unknown forces of the...

Lambitaraja, also known as Lambita Bhairava, is one of the Ashta Bhairavas —the eight ferocious manifestations of Lord Bhairava, who is a fearsome aspect of Lord Shiva. The Ashtabhairavas are revered in Shaivism, each with unique forms, attributes, and responsibilities for protecting the directions of the universe. The Lambitaraja form of Bhairava is particularly significant for its association with destruction and protection during times of intense battles. Origin and Mythological Story: According to the Vamana Purana , Lambitaraja Bhairava appeared when Shiva was engaged in a battle with Andhakasura , a powerful demon who represented ignorance and darkness. Andhaka desired the consort of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and waged war against Shiva to capture her. In response, Lord Shiva, enraged by this arrogance, took on his Bhairava form. During the fierce battle, Lambitaraja, a terrifying form of Bhairava, manifested to annihilate the demon army and instill fear in Andhaka. Lambitaraj...

Svacchanda Bhairava is one of the eight incarnations of Bhairava, known as the Ashtabhairavas , each representing different aspects of Lord Shiva. Svacchanda Bhairava is particularly revered for his terrifying, yet highly spiritual form, embodying the full potential of Shakti or divine energy. His consort is Aghoreshvari, also known as Aghoresha, who represents Vimarsha (self-awareness), thus completing the dynamic interplay of power and consciousness. Origin and Mythology According to the Vamana Purana , Svacchanda Bhairava appeared during a duel between Lord Shiva and the demon Andhakasura. Andhakasura, a formidable enemy, represented ignorance and darkness, and Svacchanda Bhairava emerged as an embodiment of light and power to assist in the destruction of evil. His appearance is symbolic of Shiva's resolve to rid the universe of chaos and ignorance, and through his manifestation, he serves as a protector and purifier. Symbolism and Iconography Svacchanda Bhairava's form is...

Verses 15 to 18 of Isha Upanishad are chanted at the time of death. They are also chanted by Hindus in the funeral rites. The face of truth is covered with a golden disc. Unveil it, O Sun, so that I who love the truth may see it. (Isha Upanishad – 15) O Sun, the sole seer, O controller, O Sun, offspring of Prajapati, spread forth your rays and gather up your radiant light that I may behold you of loveliest form. Whosoever is that person that also am I. (Isha Upanishad – 16) May this life enter into the immortal breath; then many this body end in ashes. O Intelligence, remember, remember what has been done. Remember, O intelligence, what has been done. (Isha Upanishad – 17) O Agni, lead us, along the auspicious path to prosperity, O God, who knowest all our deeds. Take away from us deceitful sins. We shall offer many prayers unto thee. (Isha Upanishad – 18) ----------------------- These verses are from the Isha Upanishad, which is one of the ancient scriptures of Hindu...

Nagaraja, meaning “King of Serpents,” is one of the eight primary forms of Bhairava – a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva . Bhairava is known for his destructive and transformative powers, acting as the protector of cosmic order by eliminating negative forces and illusions. Nagaraja Bhairava, in particular, is closely associated with serpents, poison, and fear, embodying these primal energies to battle evil forces. Mythological Background: According to the Vamana Purana , the Nagaraja form of Bhairava appeared during Shiva's fierce confrontation with Andhakasura , a demon symbolizing ignorance and delusion. Andhakasura, a powerful asura (demon), gained the boon of near immortality, but he abused his powers to spread chaos and darkness. Lord Shiva took various forms of Bhairava to subdue him, and Nagaraja Bhairava played a crucial role in this epic battle. Nagaraja Bhairava manifested serpents with multiple heads from his body to combat the evil forces that emerged from Andhakasur...

The Kamaraja form of Bhairava is one of the Ashta Bhairavas (eight incarnations of Bhairava), a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. In Hinduism, Bhairava is worshiped as the protector and annihilator, symbolizing the destructive aspect of Shiva. However, Kamaraja Bhairava stands out among the Ashta Bhairavas for his unique attributes and powers. While most Bhairava forms emphasize fierceness and the destruction of negativity, Kamaraja Bhairava represents a more charming and beautiful aspect, connected with the powers of attraction, illusion, and control over desires. Importance and Symbolism of Kamaraja Bhairava: Defeating Andhakasura : According to the Vamana Purana , the Kamaraja form of Bhairava emerged during Shiva’s battle with the demon Andhakasura . Andhakasura, who represents blindness or ignorance (Andhaka literally means "blind"), was a powerful demon who attacked Shiva. In the battle, Shiva manifested Kamaraja Bhairava to create confusion in Andhakasura’s army. K...

Calcutta High Court had banned the entry of devotees into the famous Sanctum Sanctorum of Kalighat Temple in Kolkata in April 2012. The temple committee has now attained a four week stay on the order from the Supreme Court. Hindustan Times reports    A bench of Justice Deepak Verma and Justice SJ Mukhopadhyay, while staying the high court order, directed the West Bengal Government, the Centre and the temple committee to file their responses within four weeks.    The apex court, however, clarified that certain restrictions imposed by the high court on preserving the cleanliness and hygiene in and around the temple shall continue to be in force.    The apex court had on May 15 issued notices to the Centre and the West Bengal government on a plea for permitting devotees to enter the sanctum sanctorum of the Kolkata Kalighat temple to pay obeisance to its deity.    The Calcutta high court on April 20 had restricted the entry into the Ka...

Vidyaraja is a significant form of Bhairava , one of the eight (Ashta Bhairava) incarnations of Lord Shiva , each of whom plays a role in protecting and preserving the universe. The Ashtabhairavas represent different aspects of Bhairava, who is the fierce form of Shiva associated with protection, destruction of evil, and the path to enlightenment. Significance and Role of Vidyaraja In the Vidyaraja form , Bhairava is revered as the God of spells and mantras . His name can be broken down as "Vidya" (meaning knowledge or esoteric wisdom) and "Raja" (meaning king or ruler), symbolizing him as the king of knowledge —specifically tantric and mystical knowledge that aids in spiritual ascension and protection against enemies or negative forces. Vidyaraja holds a key place in Shaktism , a tradition in Hinduism that focuses on the divine feminine and the worship of Shakti, the cosmic energy or the primordial power. In Shaktism, Vidyaraja is invoked for protection through t...

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) Temple in Vrindavan, Mathura, India holds significant spiritual importance for devotees of Lord Krishna worldwide. Vrindavan itself is revered as the sacred land where Lord Krishna spent his childhood and performed his divine pastimes. Here's why the ISKCON Temple in Vrindavan is spiritually significant: The central altar of the temple featuring Krishna and Balarama represents the principal deities, while the altars on the right and left add depth to the spiritual atmosphere, honoring Radha Krishna, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, Nityananda, A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, and Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati. The inclusion of Radha Krishna with Lalita and Vishakha on the right altar emphasizes the importance of the divine love between Radha and Krishna, as well as the devotion of their intimate associates. On the left altar, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and Nityananda signify the path of devotion and the spreading of Krishna consciousness...

 Absent-mindedness in Hinduism is often seen as a result of lack of concentration or distractions caused by the wandering mind. In Hindu philosophy, the mind is compared to a monkey, hopping from one thought to another, which can lead to forgetfulness or absent-mindedness. Overcoming this requires a blend of spiritual practice, devotion, and practical day-to-day solutions rooted in dharma (righteous living) and mindfulness. 1. Ideal Gods and Goddesses to Worship Lord Ganesha : Known as the remover of obstacles, Lord Ganesha is often invoked at the beginning of any task or project. Worshipping Ganesha helps in removing distractions and focusing the mind on the task at hand. Goddess Saraswati : The goddess of wisdom, learning, and speech, Saraswati is ideal for those seeking clarity of thought and focus. Devotion to her is believed to sharpen memory and increase concentration. Lord Hanuman : Hanuman is symbolic of unshakable devotion, mental strength, and focus. Chanting his mantras ...

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 13 elaborates on certain values necessary to know truth: Absence of conceit and pretence, refusal to hurt, glad acceptance, rectitude, service to the teacher, inner and outer purity, perseverance, mastery over mind. Dispassionate towards sense objects, absence of self importance, knowledge of the limitation of birth, death, old age, illness and pain. Absence of sense of ownership, absence of obsession towards son, wife, house and the others, persistent equanimity towards all pleasant and unpleasant events. Constant devotion to Me (Sri Krishna), characterized by non-separation from Me; preference for a solitary place and absence of inclination towards socialization. Accepting the importance of Self realization, and the philosophical search for the absolute Truth – these are declared to be knowledge, whatever else there many be besides that is ignorance. These verses from the Bhagavad Gita, specifically Chapter 13, beautifully encapsulate the qua...

Param Sant Baba Jaigurudevji Maharaj passed away on May 18, 2012. Here are few thoughts and quotes of the great teacher. Ideal way to show respect to a great soul is by following his teachings. Param Sant Baba Jaigurudev Ji Maharaj attributes the present state of humanity to the five-fold inner weaknesses of man: i.e. lust, anger, greed, attachment and egoism. We have attained the human form after passing millions of ages in the lower species of life. We should therefore utilize this human body to the fullest extent and for the very purpose for which it is extended.  The main objective of getting this valuable gift – the human body – is to know ourselves and our creator and return to our original Home, the ocean of eternal peace and bliss, free from all pain and miseries. God has kept a treasure in human body. Only the true spiritual master knows the place. It is with his grace that the inner door of the treasure is revealed and opened.  The human body is ...

Param Sant Baba Jaigurudev ji Maharaj left his physical body and merged with the supreme truth. National newspapers report that Baba Jai Gurudev was 116 years old at the time of his death. He is well known for his simple teachings, social service and simplicity. Param Sant Baba Jaigurudev ji Maharaj’s mahaprayan happened at 10:30 pm on 18 May 2012 (IST). He had millions of followers in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and nearby states. Naam yog Sadhna Mandir on Delhi – Agra bypass road is dedicated to Baba Jai Gurudev and his teaching are engraved on the beautiful mandir. He promoted vegetarianism and non-alcoholism among people. His important teaching is that lust, anger, greed, attachment and egoism are the five-fold inner weaknesses of man and every human being should strive to overcome it. Recording of a Satsang of Baba Jai Gurudev: Related   Teachings of Baba Jai Gurudev