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Showing posts from January, 2013


Story of Sabari in the Ramayana - Did Sabari Offer Half Eaten Fruit to Sri Ram?

Mata Sabari, an old woman mentioned in the Ramayana, attained moksha through her devotion to Sri Ram. Through the story of Sabari, Sri Ram demonstrated to the world that what is more important is devotion and not caste, creed or the value of the offerings. There is always a debate regarding the fruit offered by Mata Sabari. Whether the fruit was bitten or not bitten is a worthless debate. It is when we are bound by this body and ego that we feel bad about a bitten fruit. When True Bhakti dawns the difference melts away. Mata Sabari, a very old woman, was an ardent devotee of Sri Ram. During His search for Mata Sita in the forest, Sri Ram along with Lakshman reached the hut of Sabari. The old woman who was overwhelmed with joy had nothing to offer to Sri Ram. Tears trickled from her eyes and then she remembered about the wild fruits that she had collected the other day. Sabari was not sure whether the fruits were tasty, sour or poisonous. So she tasted them first a litt

Info on the official website of Kailash Manasarovar Yatra by Government of India

To get all the important details of Kailash Manasarovar Yatra conducted by Government of India, the Yatra governing body has created a official website. It provides all the forms required, all information regarding payments, age, health related queries etc. The website also contains maps, itinerary, selection process, printable forms, batches etc. Link – Website of Kailash Manasarovar Yatra by Government of India

About Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave Temple in Uttarakhand

Patal Bhuvaneshwar Temple in Uttarakhand is a natural cave temple dedicated to various gods in Hindu pantheon and is mentioned in the Skanda Purana. The cave temple is dedicated to Shiva and has naturally formed murtis of various deities. Patal Bhuvaneshwar temple is located about about 37 km from Chaukori and 14 km from Gangolihat in Pithorgarh District in Uttarakhand. G. Brindha writes about this amazing cave temple in the Hindu One has to descend 82 steps to reach the underground tunnels. One has to squeeze in, crawl and worm one's way into the tunnel, holding on to the supportive chains on the walls and taking care not to slip. Between the stairways there is a footlinga of Lord Narasimha. At this point, one can see both ways up to the entrance and down to the main cave. On reaching down, one sees a big idol of Seshnag, holding the Earth on his hood.  There is a Hawan Kund in front. It is said that King Janamejayan performed Nagayaga here, as instructed by Rishi Ul

Ashtavakra Gita in English in pdf format

Ashtavakra Gita is a classical text associated with Advaita school teaching and contains the teaching of Sage Ashtavakra. You can download the Ashtavakra Gita English translation for free in pdf format from the below link. The Ashtavakra Samhita is in the format of a dialogue between Sage Ashtavakra and King Janaka.  Link - Ashtavakra Gita in English in pdf format Related Story of Ashtavakra

Why Dasaratha Had to Send Sri Ram to the Forest?

Dasaratha, the king of Ayodhya and father of Sri Ram, had to send his son to the forest for 14 years due to a curse. King Dasaratha was a great warrior and he had even helped Indra in the war in against demons. He was one of the greatest archers and could hit an arrow on target by merely listening to the source of the sound. One day the king was on a hunting expedition near a forest in Ayodhya. The king could not find any animal for a long period of time. Then he suddenly heard a sound of some animal drinking water. He shot an arrow in the direction of the sound and suddenly he heard the cry of a man. To his utter dismay, the king found that he had shot a young man. The young man was Shravan Kumar a devoted son. He used to carry his blind parents in two baskets and carry them by tying the baskets to the two ends of a strong pole. When the unfortunate incident took place, young Shravan Kumar was collecting water for his blind parents. Shravan Kumar pardoned Dasarath

Largest and Tallest Shivling in the World

There are no official statements regarding world’s largest and tallest Shivling. So there are many temples and sacred places claiming that it houses the largest Shivling in the world. Here is a look at some of the tallest Shivlings the world. Shivling at Arjundhara in Jhapa , Nepal A 151-feet long Shivling installed at Arjundhara of Jhapa in Nepal is currently believed to be the tallest in the world. The Shivling is known as Moksheswar Shivling. (Please note that there is no official confirmation regarding the height of this Shivling) Shivling at Kotilingeshwara Temple in Kolar District in Karnataka The Shivling at the world famous Kotilingeshwara Temple in Kolar District in Karnataka is 108 feet. This unique spot also houses a 35 feet Nandi and millions of Small Shivling. Tallest Naturally Formed Shivling It is believed that tallest naturally formed Shivling in  India  is located at the  Sidheshwarnath   Temple  at Lower Subansiri District i

Born on Sunday – Good or Bad – in Hindu Astrology

If you were born on a Sunday, then as per Hindu astrology your character and life will be influenced by Surya or the Sun God. The good effects of being born on Sunday include that the person will be handsome, intelligent and will show tremendous enthusiasm. The bad effects include that the person will be angry and proud. The person will be of helpful nature and will always be ready to help the poor and needy. As the person has a tough time in controlling his/her anger, in fights and arguments the person will put full strength. After arguments and fights, he might forgive but will keep a grudge in the mind. By now is it clear that maximum damages in life for people born on Sunday will be caused by anger. Try to control anger through meditation. The deity to be worshipped is Surya. Chant mantras dedicated to Surya. When mind is agitated try to chant the Gayatri Mantra.

Hindu Scriptures – Quotes on topic – Your destiny is in your hands

A collection of quotes on topic your destiny is in your hands from Hindu scriptures. We reap what we sow. We are makers of our own fate. None else has the blame, none has the praise. (Swami Vivekananda) If one thinks of oneself as free, one is free, and if one thinks of oneself as bound, one is bound. (Ashtavakra Gita) You are what your driving desire is. As you desire is, so is your will. As your will is, so is your deed. As your deed is, so is your destiny. (Brihadaranyaka Upanishad) The cause of happiness or misery is no other than one’s self; it is an idea of the mind. (Bhagavad Gita) Man is not bound by any other laws excepting those which he makes for himself. Our thoughts, our words and deeds are the threads of the net which we throw round ourselves for good or evil. Once we set in motion a certain power, we have to take the full consequences of it. This is the law of Karma. (Swami Vivekananda)

Spiritual and Symbolic Meaning of the Story of Kumbh Mela

The basic story associated with Kumbh Mela is the churning of ocean or Samudra Manthan. But there is spiritual and symbolic meaning to the story which is quite often missed. The story is symbolic – the churning of ocean by Devas (demigods) and Asuras (Demons) is always taking place in us. There is a constant fight in us to overcome the lower mind – the place of desire, ego, jealousy and ignorance. When we finally defeat the craving of the body and ignorance, we will get the amruta or elixir of life. We are merged in truth. We defeat the temporary and find bliss in the permanent. The Kumbh – the pot – is the human body. It is our free will as to what we want to churn out of it. Kumbh Mela thus is an opportunity for us to reflect. It is also a venue for the best minds to meet. It is also a venue for common seekers to mingle with the Gurus.

Melmalayanur Angalamman Temple Contact Information - Phone and Address

Melmalayanur Angalamman Temple is one of the rare temples dedicated to Goddess Parvati as Angalamman. The contact information and address of the temple is given below. Please note that the contact information might be updated when new information is available. Contact Information and Address: The Executive Officer, Sri Angala Parameshwari Temple , Melmalaiyanoor, Gingee Taluk, Villupuram District, Tamilnadu – 604204 Phone - 4145 234291 Email id - mail@angalammantemple.com

Thirunageswaram Temple Timings

Thirunageswaram is an important temple dedicated to Rahu in Tamil Nadu. The detail opening and closing timings of temple are given below. The time is to give a general idea. The temple will be open for longer period during special occasions like Rahu Transition (Peyarachi) and festivals. Thirunageswaram Timings: Morning the temple is open from 5:30 AM to 1:00 PM Evening the temple is open from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Book – Commentary on Valmiki Ramayana – Read Online

Valmiki Ramayana commentary by L Ananta Rama Rao explores the various aspects of the great epic. You can read the entire book titled Valmiki Ramayana online for free. The author also tries to point out some important differences occur in regional versions especially with the Kamba Ramayana. The book is basically a commentary on the Valmiki Ramayana. Link – Book Commentary on Valmiki Ramayana

Slide Show of Talakad Temples in Karnataka – Photos of Talakad Temples

Talakad near Mysore in Karnataka is famous for the Vaidyeshwara, Pataleshwara, Maruleshwara, Mallikarjuneshwara and Arakeshwara - Shiva temples – Panchalinga Temples. Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) has created a slide show of the Talakad temples, Cauvery River and sculptures in the temple. There are more than 100 photos in the slide show. Some photos provide minute details of the sculptures found on the outer walls of the temple. Link – Slide Show of Talakad Temples in Karnataka

Saraswati Kavach and Yantra for Performing Well in Exams

For performing well in studies and exams, Hindus take refuge in Goddess Saraswati, the Goddess of learning and arts. Sarasvati Kavach and Yantra are used by students to improve concentration and memory power. The benefits include better performance in exams. What are Sarasvati Kavach and Yantra? Sarasvati Kavach and Yantra are two different divine representation of Goddess Saraswati. A Yantra is also a visual form of mantras. The power of the mantras are captured in it. It is kept in puja room. Sarasvati Kavach as per astrologers is made during shubh muhurat (rare auspicious time period in a year). Mantras for auspiciousness are chanted and the Pran Pratishta is performed by priests. It can be worn on a part of the body. Hindu Blog view Sarasvati Kavach and Yantra will not perform any miracles. It will only help in improving confidence level. A student using the divine items should also work hard.

Rewasa Dham at Sikar in Rajasthan – Rewasa Temple

Rewasa Dham, a 16 th century temple, is located at Sikar in Rajasthan and is dedicated to Bhagvan Sri Ram and Shri Agradeva Maharaj. It is believed that Mata Sita gave darshan to Agradeva Maharaj in the spot where the present day temple stands. The temple is associated with the Shri Ramanada Sect and numerous incidents from life of Bhagvan Sri Ram are depicted on the walls of the temple. Opening and Closing Time of the Temple Morning Darshan Time – 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM Evening Puja Time – 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM The most important festivals observed at the temple are Ramnavami, Janaki Navami, Janmashtami and Shri Agracharya Jayanti. The temple is around 100 km from Jaipure. Nearest Railway Station is Goria Railway Station at 4 kms.

Hayagriva Beej Mantra – Benefits and Importance of the Hayagriva Mantra

Hayagriva incarnation of Hindu God Vishnu is associated with Vedas. Srihari Vishnu appeared with a human body and horse head to recover the Vedas, which were stolen by Asuras or Demons. Hayagriva Beej Mantra and its importance are mentioned in the Sri Hayagriva Upanishad. The benefit of chanting mantra is that it helps in attaining self realization. On the request of Sage Narada, Brahma taught his all important Beej Mantra. The single syllable Hayagriva Beej Mantra is ‘Hlaum’ Sri Hayagriva Upanishad says – this single-syllable beeja-mantra is the word Hlaum, which consists of the three letters h, l, and om. Benefits and Importance of Hayagriva Beej Mantra They who chant this Hlaum beeja-mantra attain both wealth and learning. They attain knowledge of the transcendental form of Lord Hayagriva and they also attain liberation, becoming free from the entanglement of residing in a material body. They become the rulers of the dik-palas, kings, and nagas. Surya and othe

Siddarameshwara Temple at Yelanadu in Karnataka

Siddarameshwara temple at Yelanadu is located in Chikkanayakanahalli Taluk in Tumkur District in Karnataka. This is one of the 57 temples associated with Shivayogi Siddarama – the holy saint is said to have constructed temples at various place where he undertook penance for spreading Shaivism during the 12th century. His Holiness Siddarama is considered as one of the prophets of Lingayat Religion. The place, where the temple currently stands, was once a thick forest and Shivayogi Siddarama during his journey of spreading Shaivism stayed at this place and performed Tapas under a tree. As time passed he was surrounded by an ant hill. Cattle of a nearby village used to give milk on its own on this ant hill which was observed by the cattle grazer and informed the fact to his master in the village. A temple was then built on the spot. One of the most important offering in the temple is Ellu or Sesame. The temple is around 7km from Huliyar and 50 km from Hosadurga Road Railw

Thindal Murugan Temple Pooja Timing – Darshan – Visiting Time at Thindal Muruga Temple at Erode in Tamil Nadu

Thindal Murugan   Temple  at Thindal in Erode in Tamil Nadu is one of the famous temples dedicated to Lord Muruga.  Detail   Thindal Murugan Temple Pooja Timing is given below. Hundreds of people visit the temple daily to have the darshan of the murti of Muruga who blesses them with prosperity. Visiting time is from 6:00 AM in the morning to 8:30 PM. On special day, the temple is open till midnight. Daily Puja Timings   6:00 AM to 12:30 PM 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM Tuesday and Friday 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM Krithigai, Amavasai and Sashti and other festival and vrat days 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Understanding Kumbh Mela Festival – Thoughts and Quotes on the Greatest Festival on the Banks of Ganges

Millions of people will be performing holy bath at Prayag – Sangam ( Allahabad in India ) on the banks of Ganges River starting from January 14, 2013. These millions arrive on the banks of Ganga without any persuasion, advertisement or force. They arrive on their own. The only force that draws them to the Sangam is Moksha or Liberation – to merge with the Supreme Truth and escape from endless birth and death. Sangam is the confluence of River Ganga, Saraswati and Yamuna. Sanagm or Prayag is the holiest place in Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism). All Hindu scriptures talk about the greatness of Sangam. Why Hinduism does not fit into the definition of religion set by western scholars is answered best during Kumbh Mela? Thousands of traditions, groups, rituals, prayers, practices, sects; different language, clothes, food, - it’s a festival of unity in diversity. Thousands of traditions arrive to become ONE at Sangam. The core teaching that brings them to banks of Ganga is that

Vidurashwatha Temple Address and Contact Number – Timing

Vidurashwatha Temple is a famous temple dedicated to Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. The temple is also famous as a Naga Temple (Snake Worship). This temple is visited for pariharam associated with Naga Doshas. The detail timing, address and contact number of Vidurashwatha Temple is given below. Detail opening and closing time: Usual daily temple timing: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM Special days and during Jathra and festivals Timing: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM Contact Address: Shree Vidurashwatha Narayanaswamy Temple , Vidurashwatha, Gowribidanur Taluk, Chikkaballapur District. Pin – 56120 Important Note - I am getting too many complaints about the Archakas. So be careful while booking pujas etc. Go to the temple see for yourself and then do the pujas. It seems there is so much internal fighting among the archakas. Contact Telephone number: 91-8155-288143 Pradhana Archaka is Sreedhara Sastry. And his contact details 9901398826, 9611008445 Ashwath Narayan - 98865

Video by BBC - the house in which Swami Vivekananda Stayed in New York– Which is a Shrine Now

A video by BBC shows the home in which Swami Vivekananda stayed in New York during his famous visit to the United States in the 19 th century. The short video also contains interview with people who are currently taking care of the home and spreading the teachings of Swami Vivekananda. The video length is 2:20 minutes You can view the Video here in BBC 

Swami Vivekananda on His Mother – The love which my mother gave to me has made me what I am

Today - January 12, 2013 - is the birthday of Swami Vivekananda. Swami Vivekananda said this about Bhuvaneswari Devi, His mother …always suffering, always loving . . . The love which my mother gave to me has made me what I am and I owe a debt to her that I can never repay . . . I know that before I was born, my mother would fast and pray and do hundreds of things which I could not even do for five minutes. She did that for two years. I believe that whatever religious culture I have, I owe to that. It was consciously that my mother brought me into the world to be what I am. Whatever little good impulse I have was given to me by my mother, and consciously, not unconsciously. Source – Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda 9 202-3 We need to learn to respect the unfathomable pain and struggle our mothers, sisters, wives and of other millions of women. They never advertise their struggle or pain. We owe to them what we are today and what we will be tomorrow. We are here because

Kumbh Mela 2013 Photos

This particular photo tour consists of photos taken during Kumbh Mela 2013 at Prayag – Sangam ( Allahabad ). Below are photo links to collection of Kumbh Mela photos. The page will be updated as more collections are published online. Link - Kumbh Mela 2013 photos by Indian Express Link - Kumbha Mela 2013 photos by Hindustan Times Link - Kumbh Gathering in 2013 Related Photo Tour of Haridwar Kumbh Mela 2010

Sri Ranganatha Yatheendra Maha Desikan Thoughts

Untouchability is unacceptable. Only those who do not perform their duties with sincerity and commitment are untouchables. Caste has no role here. This is Kaliyuga. My views may not have takers. Not only the politicians, but most of the people are committing mistakes. But there is hope if there is repentance. Ego is the cause of all caste and religious conflicts. Adherence to dharma and performing one’s duties will bring about the change. Discipline is essential for the development of tolerance, a vital ingredient for harmony. You can achieve anything with kindness and love. On the other hand, enmity begets enmity. If you need friendship and fraternity, you have to tolerate, adjust and unite. The policy of give-and-take is a must for the peaceful life. Sri Ranganatha Yatheendra Maha Desikan – 46th pontiff of Sri Ahobila Mutt Source – interview published in The Hindu.

Children Aspiring to Become Naga Sadhus Will be Ordained During Kumbh Mela 2013

Shri Panchyati Akhara Naya Udaseen is the only Akhara that ordains children as Naga Sadhus before the age of 14. Children not immediately ordained as Naga Sadhus – they are allowed to live with their Gurus so they can get first hand information about a life of Naga Sadhu. The children can then decide to stay or return home. After the children are ordained as nagas, they are given proper education, be it in traditional Vedic or Sanskrit schools or modern schools run by the akhara. Hindustan Times reports  Hundreds of children aspiring to become naga sadhus will be ordained Bal Naga Sadhus of Shri Panchyati Akhara Naya Udaseen in the Kumbh Mela. The centuries-old tradition also gives ordained kids important designations such as mahant, kothari, and bhandari.  The training of these teenaged naga sadhus begins under the watchful eyes of their revered guru. By the time they become adults, they are adept at handling these roles efficiently. Currently, there are over 350 child naga sa

The Significance and Meaning of Narayana – By Sri Tridandi Chinna Srimannarayana Ramanuja Jeeyar Swamiji

Narayana is the Supreme Being – this is what is explained in the Bhagavad Gita. In the 10th and the 11th chapters of the Bhagavad Gita, the Lord clearly says that He is present in each and every object and is responsible for its survival. There is no being or object without Him. He is present in and is the cause of support for every atom that exists. Thus He is in everything, not just in heaven or space. Arjuna was scared upon seeing the universal form of the Lord. He could see neither the beginning nor the end of it. In the 10th and the 11th chapters, the Lord clearly explains how He is in everything and everything is within Him. These two chapters explain the meaning of the word NARAYANA. RA in Sanskrit means that which perishes; NARA means that which never perishes – but only changes its name, color, place or form. NARA means all such objects (to explain the plurality, the word NARA becomes Naara. AYANA means support –from within and outside. Support to what? T

Why is Kumbh Mela Held in India?

There are two important reasons why Kumbh Mela is held in India . One is based on stories in scriptures and another is a practical reason. The practical reason is that Kumbh Mela is meant for the great minds in Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism) to meet and discuss and share knowledge for the welfare of the living beings. Decisions and new findings in philosophy and science taken during the Kumbh Mela are then carried by the saints to different parts of the world. Reason in Puranas The most important and widely accepted reason in scriptures is found in the Bhagavad Puran. Puranas are filled with wars between Devas (demigods) and Asuras (demons). The Devas always have the upper hand but occasionally due to some curse or misdeeds the Devas lose this upper hand. Lord Indra, the king of Devas, was once cursed by Sage Durvasa and as the result of this curse, Demons overpowered the Devas. To find a solution the Devas approached Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu advised them to obtain Amrut - ‘the

Siddarameshwara Jayanti of Bhovi Guru Peetha

Siddarameshwara Swami is the spiritual guru of the Bhovi Community in Karnataka. Siddarameshwara Jayanthi is the birth anniversary of the guru and in 2025 it will observed on January 24. The day is of great significance to the Bhovi community. The Bhovi Guru Peetha, inspired by Guru Siddarameshwara, works for the betterment of the Bhovi community. The spiritual guru is a guiding light in various matters associated with community. The community follows the teaching of Lord Basavanna. The jayanti is observed usually on Paush Krishna Paksha Dasami as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in Karnataka.

Kumbha Masam 2024 – Malayalam Kumbham Month in 2024

Kumbha Masam, or Kumbham, is the seventh month in a traditional Malayalam calendar followed in Kerala. Kumbha Masam in 2024 begins on February 14, 2024 and ends on March 13, 2024. Auspicious days in the month include Attukal Pongala, Sri Ramakrishna Jayanti, Thirunavaya Ekadasi, Kumbha Bharani, Chottanikara Makam and Thiruvilwamala Ekadasi. Mahashivratri is on March 8. The month is of great significance in Bhagavathy Temples in South Kerala . Temple festivals are held in this month. Festivals in all most all the important temples are held during the period. Full Moon and No Moon Day Karutha Vavu or Amavasya – March 10 Velutha Vavu or full moon day (Purnima) – February 24 Ekadasi fasting dates - February 20 and March 6 Pradosham Fasting is on February 21 and March 8 Sashti Fasting - February 15 Festivals and auspicious days include: Temple   Festival  at  Ettumanoor   Mahadeva   Temple  begins on  February 11 Kumbha Bharani – February 15 Ezhar

Makara Masam 2024 – Malayalam Makaram Month in 2024

Makara Masam, or Makaram, is the sixth month in a traditional Malayalam calendar followed in Kerala. Makara Masam in 2024 begins on January 15, 2024 and ends on February 13, 2024.  Other important festivals and auspicious days in the month include Makara Chovva or the first Tuesday in Makara month. Makara Bharani is a major festival day at Goddess Bhagavathi Temples in Kerala and is on January 19. Thaipusam dedicated to Lord Subramanya is on January 26. Fasting - Vavu - Pournami Amavasya (Karutha Vavu) is on February 9 Purnima or full moon day (Velutha Vavu) is on January 25 Ekadasi Fasting dates are January 21 and February 6. Pradosham dates are January 23 and February 7 Shasti fasting is on January 16 Next month in Malayalam Calendar is the Kumbha Masam.

Sri Agastheeswarar – About Shiva as Agastheeswarar

Shiva is worshipped as Sri Agastheeswarar in many temples in South India , especially in Tamil Nadu. Shiva is given the name Agastheeswarar and worshipped in those temples in which Sage Agastya installed the Shivling. The main Murti in some temples where Sage Agastya performed worship is also known by the name. Legend has it that Sage Agastya had installed and worshipped 108 Shivlings in South India . In many of the 108 temples, the presiding deity Shiva is known as Sri Agastheeswarar. Sage Agastya was an ardent devotee of Shiva and it is said that it is due to the unparalleled spiritual strength of Agastya that Shiva is worshipped in the name of the Saint. Legend has it that once all the saints of world assembled in the  Himalayas  to hear Hindu God Shiva talking about the secret of the Veda and Tantra. When all the pious people were assembled in  Himalayas , the earth tilted. To restore the balance of the earth, Shiva asked Sage Agastya to go south as the spiritual str

Kumbh Mela 2013 in Numbers – Facts

Kumbh Mela held once in 12 years at Allahabad (Prayag – Sangam) in India is the largest ever gathering of human beings for a single purpose in the world. So how big is Kumbh Mela 2013? Here are few numbers and facts to give an idea how big the Mela which begins on January 14, 2013 is. Kumbha Mela 2013 is spread over 56 days. 100 million people will be participating in the Mela – India Government estimate is 10 crore. Kumbh Nagri in Prayag (epicenter of the Mela) is spread over 58.03 square km Total amount of business expected to be done due to Kumbh Mela is 12,000 crore rupees (120 billion rupees) Jobs created direct and indirect during Kumbh Mela - 650,000 Law and Order 30,000 policemen are on duty during the period. There are 30 police stations. 45 closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras in Kumbh Nagri 120 CCTV cameras in Allahabad City Fire department 30 fire stations. Multi-purpose vehicle with gadgets that can evacuate people trapped i

Bengali Magh month in 2024 – Magh Mash in Bangala Calendar 2024

Magh month is the tenth month in a traditional Bengali calendar. The previous month was the Poush Mash. As per Gregorian calendar, the Magh month begins in Mid January and ends in Mid February. In 2024, Magh Mash in Bangala Calendar begins on January 16 and ends on February 13, 2024. As per traditional Bengali calendar this is the year 1430. Amabashya  or no moon day in month is February 9. Purnima or full moon day in Magh month in 2024 is on January 25. The Ekadashi in the month are on January 21 and February 6 Important Festivals in Bengali Maagh month in 2024 Ganesh Puja - February 13 The next month in Bengali calendar is the Phalgun month.

Maasi Month 2024 in Tamil Calendar– Masi Masam in 2024 in Calendar in Tamil Nadu

Maasi month is the 11th month in a traditional calendar followed in Tamil Nadu. Maasi Month in 2024 begins on February 13 and ends on March 13. Mahashivratri is observed in Masi month in 2024 - March 8.  Maasi Maham  (February 24, 2024) is another auspicious day in the month. Pillayar Sankatahara Chaturthi is on February 28 Pournami and Amavasai Maasi Amavasai is on March 10 Pournami, or full moon day, in Maasi month is on February 24 Ekadasi fasting dates - February 20 and March 6 Shiva Pradosham Fasting is on February 21 and March 8 Murugan Sashti Fasting - February 15 Festival and Auspicious dates in Maasi Month 2024 Shivratri - March 8 Karadaiyan Nombu – March 14 Masi Magam - February 24

Rudra Gita Quotes

Thy (God Vishnu’s) presence behind Nature cannot be seen but can be inferred. It is Thou as Time, imperceptible but irresistibly fast in movement that drives, with terrific speed, all manifested beings along their course like a terrific wind blowing away the massed clouds, and ultimately brings them to their destruction by the interaction of elements. All the creatures of the world, steeped in lust and greed, and engrossed in thoughts on the ways and means of securing their worldly ambitions, are quickly consumed by Thee, the un-winking and watchful spirit of Time, as a hungry serpent might swallow a rat that it comes upon. The whole world is gripped with the fear of death; but to us who know Thee, Thou are a haven free of fear. Of all the blessings a man can receive, the highest is what is got by spiritual enlightenment. With spiritual enlightenment as the boat, man crosses the limitless ocean of samsara. Rudra Gita

Siddarameshwara Jayanti - Shri Shivayogi Siddarameshwara

Siddarameshwara Jayanthi is the birth anniversary of the 12th century saint poet from Karnataka. In 2025, Siddarameshwara Jayanthi will be observed from January 14 to 16.  Shri Shivayogi Siddarameshwara was a great contributor to Lingayat Teaching and he is considered as one of the five important teachers of Lingayat Pantha Siddarameshwara, who called himself Kapila Sidda Mallikarjuna had composed over 68,000 vachanas – holy teachings – but sadly only 1,992 of them are available today. He was an important reformist in the 12th Century. He believed in physical toil, practiced community labour and advocated equality for women in public life.

Shiva Sutra Quotes

Every individual who is aware of his spiritual nature being Atman realizes of his being an actor on the world stage; and he is, therefore, not affected or deluded by the particular role he is enacting. The manifested world is the stage on which the manifested Jiva play their limited roles. It is mind (mental knowledge) that is vitiated by the illusion of duality, and is the source and instrument of bondage of the spirit in man which is inherently free, and essentially an expression of the Reality. Only on overcoming delusion of mind caused by attachment even to the subtlest objects on the highest planes of manifestation, there is attainment of that Knowledge, inherent in Reality, all-embracing and through which anything can be accomplished. Shiva Sutras

God verily exists – He alone is the Truth – Sri Ramakrishna Explains

A question that is commonly asked is: ‘If God exists, why we cannot see him?’ For this, Sri Ramakrishna’s reply is simple: ‘You cannot see God during the days of your ignorance, just as you cannot see the stars in the sky during day-time, even though they do exist.’ Not only does he exist he is the only truth that exists! Does that mean that the world in which we live, move and have our being is unreal? It is unreal if satya or reality is defined as something which never changes, unaffected by three aspects of time past, present and future. Compared to that, this world is ephemeral, constantly changing, and hence unreal. Good God! Then, how can we, or how should we, live? Sri Ramakrishna says: ‘Live like the maid-servant in her master’s house. Though she apparently treats the children of her master as her own, she knows in her heart of hearts, that they are not. Her own children live in her ancestral village’. Another example he gives is: ‘The boat can be in the wa

Ravivar Vrat Katha – Story Read on Sunday Fasting Dedicated to Surya

Ravivar Vrat in Hindu Religion is dedicated to Surya, the Sun God in Hinduism. The popular belief is that observing Sunday fasting will help in early cure of skin diseases. Long ago there lived a pious old lady who performed Ravivar Vrat without fail. She used to get up early on Sunday morning, plaster her house with cow dung and then offer food to Surya. The old lady led a very happy life with the blessing of Sun God. The old lady did not own a cow so she used to collect cow dung from her neighbor’s cowshed. The neighbor lady was jealous of the happy life of the old lady. So to stop the Ravivar fasting of the old lady, she started tying the cow inside her house. The next Ravivar, the old lady could not offer her prayers as there was no cow dung to plaster the place. So she did not cook any food and went hungry the whole day. The sun god appeared in her dream in the night and blessed her with a beautiful cow and a calf. In morning, the old lady found the same cow and calf

Rudra Gita in English in pdf

Rudra Gita contains verses dedicated to Srihari Vishnu – it extols the glory of Vishnu. Rudra Gita is found in Srimad Bhagavad Purana (shlokas 16 – 79 of chapter 24 of 4 th canto) and also in Varaha Purana (Chapters 70 to 72). This particular Rudra Gita is in English in pdf format. The holy text mainly narrates the importance of Vishnu worship – a path to moksha. It also talks about core teachings in Hinduism. Link – Rudra Gita in pdf

Quotes from Hindu Scriptures on Tirtha

A Tirtha is a place where "whatever is sacrificed, chanted, given in charity, or suffered in penance, even in the smallest amount, yields endless fruit because of the power of that place... Whatever fruit is said to accrue from many thousands of lifetimes of asceticism, even more than that is obtainable from but three nights of fasting in this place...  (Narayana Bhatta's Tristhalisetu) The punyas earned in a tirtha destroy all sins - physical, mental and those committed through speech. At the same time evil actions done in a tirtha yield evil results of which one is not easily absolved. (Shiva Purana) Just as certain parts of the body are called pure, so are certain parts of the earth and certain waters called holy. (Mahabharata) He who is without anger, truthful in conduct and firm in his vows and who regards all beings as his own self, obtains the fruits of the Tirthas. (Mahabharata)

Thamboolam Offering in Hinduism – Offering of Thambulam Leaves

One of the most important puja items in Hindism the Thamboolam leaves, especially in South Indian pujas. In regional languages in India it is known as Betel leaves , Pan, Nag Ve, Vetta or Vettila. Thambulam is offered along with betel nuts and spices to a deity after Naivedyam or food offering. The popular belief is that Thambulam helps in digesting the food. So it is offered after food offering to a deity. Coins or money are not offered along with Thambulam offering. Coins and money are only kept on betel leaves when it is offered as Dakshina. It is also believed that all important deities are present in the Thambulam. It is also an important component in the Ashtamangalya items. It must be noted that Thamboolam is only offered along with Shodasopachara Puja – traditional puja involving sixteen steps. In the daily puja offered in Hindu homes, Thamboolam is not offered.

Kannada Pausha Masa 2024 - 2025 in Kannada Calendar – Poush Month 2025 in Karnataka

Pausha Masa, or Poush Month, is the tenth month in a traditional Hindu Kannada calendar and Panchang followed in Karnataka. Pausha Masa 2025 is from December 31, 2024 to January 29, 2025. Makar Sankranti (Bevu Bella) is on January 14. Shiva Pradosham Fasting Dates in Kannada Pausha Masa are: Pradosh – January 11 (Shani Pradosh) Pradosh – January 27 (Som Pradosh) Sankashtahara Chaturthi Vrata  dedicated to Ganesh in Pausha Masa 2025 is on January 17 – Moonrise or Chandrodaya is at 8:57 PM – Indian Standard Time. Kannada Pausha Masa Shukla Paksha and  Krishna  Paksha Pausha Masa Kannada calendar 2025 Shukla Paksha (Waxing phase of moon) is from December 31, 2024 to January 13, 2025. Kannada Pausha Month 2025 Krishna Paksha (Waning phase of moon) is from January 14 to January 29, 2025. Ekadasi Fasting Dates in Kannada Pausha Masa Putrada Ekadashi – January 10 Shattila Ekadashi – January 25 Purnima in Kannada Pausha Month  Paush Purnima or Full moon day is on Ja

Marathi Paush Month in 2024 - 2025 - Poush Mahina 2025 in Maharashtra Calendar

Paush month or Poush Mahina is the tenth month in a traditional Marathi calendar followed in  Maharashtra . Paush Month 2024 - 2025 in Marathi calendar is from December 31, 2024 to January 29, 2025. The important festivals in the month include Makar Sankranti (January 14, 2025) and Shakambari Navratri. Sankashti Chaturthi  monthly fasting dedicated to Ganesha in Paush Mahina is on January 17 – Moonrise or Chandrodaya is at 8:57 PM – Indian Standard Time. Paush Mahina Shukla Paksha and  Krishna  Paksha Paush Mahina 2025 Shukla Paksha (Waxing phase of moon) is from December 31, 2024 to January 13, 2025. Paush Month 2025 Krishna Paksha (Waning phase of moon) is from January 14 to January 29, 2025. Purnima or full moon in Marathi Paush Mahina in 2025 Paush Purnima or Full moon day is on January 13, 2025. The Purnima begins at 5:03 AM on January 13 and ends at 3:57 AM on January 14.  Purnima Vrat is on January 13, 2025.  Shakambari Purnima is on January 13. Shakambari Jayan

Malayalam Calendar 2013 Online – Download Kerala Calendar 2013 in PDF format

Malayalam Calendar 2013 followed in Kerala is provided by the Deepika Newspaper and Kerala Kaumudi (not yet update) in Kerala. The second calendar is that of Kerala Kaumudi is in pdf format. Last year Mathurbhumi had also provided their calendar online. The 2013 Malayalam calendar contains important festivals in Kerala and uses Malayalam language to mention Nakshatram and festival details. This Kerala calendar of 2013 of Deepika is not in pdf format. But you can save the webpage and use it or save it in image format. You can visit the newspaper website and download it here -  Deepika Malayalam Calendar 2013 Kerala Kaumudi Calendar 2013 in PDF format - You download it here at Kerala Kaumudi calendar 2013 .

Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu

Lokah samastah sukhino bhavantu - May all beings in this universe be happy. Follow Dharma. Fight Adharma. Om  Ekadantaya Vidimahe Vakratundaya Dhimahi Tanno Dantih Prachodayat All our thoughts to the one-tusked lord All our meditation upon him who has a curved trunk O Ganesha guide us on the right path