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Showing posts from April, 2013


Goddess Banashankari Bangalore Temple

Goddess Banashankari Temple in Bangalore is located at the S.Kariappa road. One of the unique features of the temple is that pujas are conducted here during Rahu Kala also and it is considered highly meritorious. Devotees believe that their wishes will come true if they perform Aarti with lemon (nimbe hannina arati) Goddess Banashankari during Rahu Kala (on Sundays, Tuesdays and Fridays) for 16 weeks. The murti of the Goddess Banashankari worshipped in the temple is seated on a lion. The goddess possessing eight arms poses a calm look. She is seen situated in a forest (bana), surrounded by lions; and hence the name Banashankari. The goddess is seen killing the demons Shambhu and Nishambu under her feet. On either side are women at her service. The utsava murthy (procession idol) of Banashankari, Sri Shakambari, Ganapathi and Parvatha Mallikarjuna Swamy are also installed as family gods. A tortoise has been installed opposite to and facing the goddess. The tortoise

Darma Muneeswaran Temple Singapore Consecration Ceremony Live Online

Darma Muneeswaran Temple in Singapore is dedicated to Shiva Gana who is a guardian deity. The 2nd Maha Kumbhabishegam or Consecration Ceremony of the 100-year old Darma Muneeswaran Temple and its deities will be held on Wednesday, 1 May 2013. You can watch the consecration ceremony live online on May 1, 2013 from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM (Singapore Time). Darma Muneeswaran and Sri Mariamman are the deities worshipped in the temple. The temple also has murtis of Ambal, Vinayagar, Murugan, Nagar and Bairavar. You can watch the live streaming here at the temple website

Akshaya Tadige 2024

Akshaya Tadige 2024 falls on the third day after new moon in the Hindu month of Vaishakha as per traditional Kannada Hindu calendar followed in Karnataka. Tadige means the third day of a fortnight. In 2024, the date of Akshaya Tadige is May 10. The word Akshaya means ‘that which never diminishes’ and the day is ideal for beginning new ventures as it is believed that all investments on this day appreciates. The festival is widely observed as Akshaya Tritiya. The Pujas Vishnu is worshipped on the day. People also conduct Lakshmi and Kubera puja. Astrology and Investment As per Hindu astrology, every moment on the Akshaya Tadige Day is auspicious and there is no need to look for a ‘muhurat’ on the day. It is believed that the sun and the moon are most radiant and best placed on the day. Therefore it is one of the most popular dates in Hindu calendar for marriages, for beginning new ventures, for investing and for purchasing valuables like gold and diamond. Legend Th

Goddess Durga Aarti in Hindi in pdf – Durga Aarti Text in Hindi

This Goddess Durga Aarti in Hindi in pdf starts with the lines Jai Ambe Gauri Maiyya… It is a very popular prayer dedicated to Mother Goddess and is chanted morning and evening. It is also a popular prayer during the Chaitra Navaratri and Sharan Navratri. Chanting this prayer is highly beneficial as it helps in improving concentration and helps in increasing confidence level. Link – Goddess Durga Aarti in pdf

Durga Ashtakam Prayer Text in Hindi – Durgashtakam Prayer in pdf format

Durga Ashtakam Mantra is dedicated to Mother Goddess Durga. You can download the Durgashtakam prayer in pdf format. The prayer helps a devotee to attain peace, prosperity and wealth. Durga Ashtakam can be chanted by men and women and the mantra text in Hindi is given below. The mantra can be chanted on all days. It is widely chanted during Navratri festival and other important dates associated with Goddess Durga. Durga Ashtakam is a rare mantra which is believed to help in improving concentration and self realization. The Hindi text of the mantra can be downloaded in pdf format here.

Bangaru Tirupati Temple Timings

Bangaru Tirupati Temple Timings is given in detail below. Bangaru Tirupati Temple is dedicated to Balaji and is also known as Shree Venkataramana Swamy Temple . The temple timings are: Bangaru Tirupati Temple Daily Opening and Closing Time: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. During Brahmothsava 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM Dhanurmasa (mid December to mid January) 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM  Contact Address: Executive Officer (Peshkar), Shree   Venkataramana   Swamy   Temple , Guttahalli, Bangaru Thirupathi, Bangarpet Taluk, Kolar District. Pin - 563116 

Online Live Darshan Omkareshwar Temple in Madhya Pradesh

Omkareshwar Temple located in Madhya Pradesh is dedicated to Mahadev Shiva and it is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga Temples. The temple management is currently offering live darshan online. The Omkareshwar Temple live web streaming is available when the temple is open. Omkareshwar Temple is located on the Mandhata Island which is surrounded by the Narmada River . Link – You can have live darshan of Omkareshwar Jyotrilinga here at the official website.

Saptashloki Durga in Hindi in pdf – Saptashloki Durga Prayer Text in Hindi

Saptashloki Durga is a prayer dedicated to Goddess Durga. This Saptashloki Durga prayer text is in Hindi and you can download it for free in pdf format. Chanting this prayer is considered an easy way to please Goddess Durga. It is believed that daily chanting of prayer helps in fulfilling one’s wishes. Link – Saptashloki Durga Text in Hindi

Durga Chalisa Hindi in pdf – Durga Chalisa Prayer Text in Hindi

Durga Chalisa is one of the most popular prayers dedicated to Goddess Durga in forty verses (Chalisa). This particular text of Durga Chalisa is in Hindi. You can download it free or read online. Durga Chalisa explains the qualities and forms of Durga. It is considered highly meritorious to read and listen to it. The belief is that constant chanting of the prayer helps in developing confidence. It also brings in a renewed level of energy. Link - Durga Chalisa Hindi in pdf

Kabbalamma Temple at Kabbalu near Kanakapura in Karnataka

Kabbalamma Temple located at Kabbalu near Kanakapura in Karnataka is dedicated to Goddess Kabbalamma, a popular village deity in South India. She is a manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti. The temple is located about 70 km from Bangalore. Legend has it that Goddess Kabbalamma was in search of a place to reside and she took refuge in the village Kabbalu. She then took the permission of Basaveshwara and resided in the village. All the important first pujas are first performed to Basaveswara and then to Goddess Kabbalamma. The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM. Kabbalamma Temple is located about 25 km from Kanakapura. Kabbalamma Temple address is Shree Kabbalamma Temple, Kabbalu, Kabbalu Post, Sathnur Hobli, Kanakapura Taluk, Ramanagara District, Pin - 562126.

Ashtalakshmi Temple Chennai Timings - Ashta Lakshmi Opening and Closing Time in Chennai

Ashtalakshmi Temple located at Basant Nagar in Chennai is dedicated to the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi. Detail Timings of Ashtalakshmi Temple in Chennai is given below. The beautiful temple is located on the banks of Bay of Bengal . Ashtalakshmi Temple Chennai Timings Morning Darshan Timings - 6.00 AM to 11.00 AM Evening Darshan Timings – 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM Ashtalakshmis worshipped in the temple are Adi Lakshmi, Dhanya Lakshmi, Dhairya Lakshmi, Gaja Lakshmi, Santana Lakshmi, Vijaya Lakshmi, Vidya Lakshmi and Dhanalakshmi. The main deity is that of Srihari Vishnu and Mahalakshmi. Special pujas are held in the temple during Navratri, Diwali and Fridays in the months of Thai (January – February) and Aadi (July – August).

Shiva Panchakshari Stotram Text in Hindi – Lyrics of Mantra in Hindi

Shiva Panchakshari Stotram is a very popular prayer dedicated to Hindu God Shiva. The text of the mantra in Hindi is given below. The lyrics of the Stotram are in jpeg (picture format). You can save it for personal use. Chanting of Shiva Panchakshari Stotram is highly meritorious. It helps a person to achieve peace and prosperity. It is also an ideal mantra to keep focus of mind. Shiva Panchakshari Stotram Text in Hindi:

Who is the father of Bheem in the Mahabharat?

Bheem was the second of Pandavas. His mother was Kunti. Who is the father of Bheem in the  Mahabharat  is explained below in the story. She was married to Pandu. But Pandu could not have sexual union with Kunti because of a curse. Kunti due to her service to Sage Durvasa had got a boon that she will be able to summon a god and have children in him. Pandu requested Kunti to make use of the boon. Thus Bhima was born when Kunti summoned Vayu, the wind god in Hinduism. Vayu blessed her with Bhima. But as per social custom that was followed at the time of Mahabharata, Pandu is the father of Bhima.

Vishnu Sahasranamam mp3 Free Download – Vishnu Sahasranama Hindu Prayer

Vishnu Sahasranamam is the most popular prayer dedicated to Hindu God Vishnu. Vedamantram website is providing Vishnu Sahasranamam mp3 audio for free download. Vishnu Sahasranama consists of the thousand names of Srihari Vishnu. The wide spread belief is that listening to the prayer helps a devotee in attaining peace and prosperity. It is also used to help in meditation. Listening to the prayer also helps in sharpening the mind and soothing the intellect. The file size of Vishnu Sahasranamam is 20 MB. Link – You can download the Vishnu Sahasranamam mp3 prayer here.   (please right click and use save link as option to download)

Who is the father of Yudhistira in the Mahabharat?

Yudhishtira was the first of Pandavas. His mother was Kunti. Who is the father of Yudhistira in the  Mahabharat  is explained below in the story. She was married to Pandu. But Pandu could not have sexual union with Kunti because of a curse. Kunti due to her service to Sage Durvasa had got a boon that she will be able to summon a god and have children in him. Pandu requested Kunti to make use of the boon. Thus Yudhishtira was born when Kunti summoned Dharmaraja, also known as Yama, the god of death in Hinduism. Dharmaraja blessed her with Yudhishtira. But as per social custom that was followed at the time of Mahabharata, Pandu is the father of Yudhishtira.

Maruti Raksha Yantra

Maruti Raksha Yantra is associated with Hanuman. Maruti Yantra protects against all forms of accidents. Legend has it that Maruti Raksha Yantra was place on the flag of the chariot or Ratha or Arjuna in the Mahabharata war. The Yantra protected the chariot from the millions of arrows and weapons aimed at it by the Kauravas. Maruti Yantra is today place by devotees on their vehicles like car, scooter, bike, auto, bus, truck and other vehicles. The Yantra is also worshipped by people who face troubles from enemies. It is also today placed in homes and properties by people who fear about them being taken away. It must be noted that Maruti Raksha Yantra is different from Hanuman Yantra.

Kshama Prarthana Prayer Text in Hindi

Kshama Prarthana is chanted for asking for forgiveness. The prayer text in Hindi is given below in jpeg format. The prayer can be chanted after you feel you have committed some sing unknowingly. Kshama Prarthana prayer is also meant to be chanted when one feels one has committed a mistake during Vrat or fasting. Kshama Prarthana in Hindi

Trayambakam Yajamahe Prayer in Hindi Text – Lyrics

Trayambakam Yajamahe is a prayer dedicated to Hindu God Shiva. This popular prayer is known as Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra. Below the text of this prayer is given in Hindi. It is a small prayer but very powerful. The lyrics in Hindi are in picture format. The prayer is chanted to overcome fear of death.

Powerful Durga Mantras

The powerful durga mantras for daily prayers are Sarva Mangala Mangalye and Durga Ashtakshara Mantra. Another very powerful mantra is associated with Durga Mantra is given below. The belief is that chanting this mantra is highly meritorious and will help a person achieve success and defeat enemies. The mantra is: The mantra has to be chanted on Tuesdays and Fridays. You can find also Hindi Text of Sarva Mangala Mangalye Durga Ashtakshara Mantra

Daily Prayer for Goddess Durga at Home

The most ideal and daily prayer for Goddess Durga is Sarva Mangala Mangalye. This prayer is chanted daily in millions of Durga Temples and in homes around the world. The prayer is highly meritorious. It helps a devotee to overcome daily troubles. Maa Durga also blesses a devotee with peace and prosperity. This daily prayer can be chanted during morning and evening prayer time.

Durga Ashtakshara Mantra Text in Hindi

Durga Ashtakshara Mantra is dedicated to Mother Goddess Durga. It helps a devotee to attain peace, prosperity and wealth. The mantra can be chanted by men and women and the mantra text in Hindi is given below. The mantra can be chanted on all days. This mantra is widely chanted during Navratri festival. Durga Ashtakshara is a rare mantra which is believed to help in improving concentration and self realization. The Hindi text of the mantra is given below:

Sarva Mangala Mangalye lyrics in Hindi – Prayer

Sarva Mangala Mangalye is a popular prayer dedicated to Goddess Durga. Below you can read the full prayer. The lyrics are in Hindi. The popular belief is that chanting the prayer helps in attaining peace and prosperity. The prayer is chanted daily morning and evening. It is also chanted during Vasant Navratri and Durga Puja and Sharan Navaratri.

Good Time on Sunday as per Astrology in Hindu Religion

There are certain general time on Sunday that is considered good as per astrology in Hindu religion. This time is taken into account after looking into all the inauspicious time on Sunday. Please note that fixed good time on Sunday is not based on sunrise. It is the most auspicious period when there is no Rahukalam, Yamakandam and Gulikai. It must also be noted that Bhadra or Vishti is not considered in calculating the good time. Good Time on Sunday are: 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM Lot  of other factors like Chogadia, Dhurmuhurtham, Yoga and Varjyam are generally not considered when looking for general good time.

Book – Devalaya, Jharkhand – Dedicated to Temples in Jharkhand

Devalaya, Jharkhand published by Jagran Prakashan is a coffee table book dedicated to important temples in Jharkhand State in India . Apart from providing information on the temples, the book also contains photos of the temple. A specially complied CD offering a collection of bhajans also comes attached with the book. Devalaya, Jharkhand is a step in the direction of bringing an academic/social forum, some of the finest places of religious/spiritual significance in the state. It features prominent Devalayas ( Temples ) from across Jharkhand. The book showcases the historical and contemporary significance of each temple along with the inputs from the local devotees. The book is currently available on various online websites selling books in India . Devalaya, Jharkhand Price – 1200/- Author – Sharmishtha Sharma Publisher – Jagran Prakashan (2013)  

Who is mother of Abhimanyu in Mahabharata?

Abhimanyu is the 16-year-old warrior in the Mahabharata who fought on the side of the Pandavas and laid his life in the great Kurukshetra war in the Mahabharata. Mother of Abhimanyu is Subhadra. Who is Subhadra? Subhadra is the sister of Sri Krishna and wife of Arjuna. Thus Abhimanyu is the son of Arjuna and Subhadra. Abhimanyu who fought valiantly entered the Chakravyuha formation set by the Kauravas. But he only knew how to enter Chakravyuha but did not possess the knowledge to exit. Thus he was killed by Jayadrada. 

Good Time on Saturday as per Astrology in Hindu Religion

There are certain general time on Saturday that is considered good as per astrology in Hindu religion. This time is taken into account after looking into all the inauspicious time on Saturday. Please note that fixed good time on Saturday is not based on sunrise. It is the most auspicious period when there is no Rahukalam, Yamakandam and Gulikai. It must also be noted that Bhadra or Vishti is not considered in calculating the good time. Good Time on Saturday are: 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM Lot  of other factors like Chogadia, Dhurmuhurtham, Yoga and Varjyam are generally not considered when looking for general good time.

Top English Magazines Associated with Hindu Religion Available Online For Free

Some of the popular English magazines associated with Hindu religion published by Ashrams and organizations associated with Hinduism are available online for free. Here is a look at some of the popular magazines: Vedanta Kesari Vedanta Kesari is a popular monthly magazine published by Ramakrishna Mission. It is available online in pdf format and you can download it for free. The magazine contains articles related to Vedanta. It contains articles of Swami Vivekananda and other Swamijis of the Ramakrishna Mission. The annual edition of the magazine focuses on a single topic and is a collector’s item. You can find Vedanta Kesari magazine online here at ChennaiRamakrishna Math. Hinduism Today Published once in three months, Hinduism Today is another popular magazine available online. It is published by the Kauai Hindu Monastery in Hawaii , USA . The magazine covers a whole range of topics associated with Hinduism. You can find Hinduism Today magazine online here at the

Sanat Sujata Gita Teachings

A collection of teachings from Sanat Sujata Gita. The learned are of the opinion that death results from ignorance. I say that ignorance is Death. So, the absence of ignorance, that is, knowledge is immortality. The pursuit of the Brahman or Self-knowledge is immortality. The desire of enjoyments first kills men. Lust and wrath soon follow behind it. Thus, the desire for enjoyment, lust and wrath lead foolish men to death. Those that have conquered their souls (minds), however, succeed, by self-restraint, to escape death. He that has conquered his mind conquers the senses, regarding them as of no value, by the aid of self-knowledge. Ignorance, assuming the form of Yama, cannot devour that learned man who controls his desires in this manner. That man who follows his desires is destroyed along with his desires. He that can renounce desires can certainly drive away all kinds of woe. Sanat Sujata Gita is found in the Mahabharata and it is a dialogue between Dhrthirashtr

Good Time on Friday as per Astrology in Hindu Religion

There are certain general time on Friday that is considered good as per astrology in Hindu religion. This time is taken into account after looking into all the inauspicious time on Friday. Please note that fixed good time on Friday is not based on sunrise. It is the most auspicious period when there is no Rahukalam, Yamakandam and Gulikai. It must also be noted that Bhadra or Vishti is not considered in calculating the good time. Good Time on Friday are: 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM Lot of other factors like Chogadia, Dhurmuhurtham, Yoga and Varjyam are generally not considered when looking for general good time.

Mother of Pandavas

Who is the mother of Pandavas in the Mahabharata? Actually the question should be rephrased as there are two mothers. The Five Pandavas had two mothers. Kunti was the mother of Yudhishtira, Bhima and Arjuna. Madri was the mother of Nakula and Sahadeva. It is believed that Kunti became the mother of Yudhishtira through the blessings of Yama (Dharmaraja). Bhima was born with the blessings of Vayu (wind god). Arjuna with the blessing of Indra. Nakula and Sahadeva were born to Madri with the blessings of Ashwini Kumars. Pandu the husband of Kunti and Madri was cursed by a Yaksha that he will die if he approaches his wife for sexual union. Therefore Kunti who had got the boon from Durvasa to beget children from the God she likes uses the boon and shares the boon with Madri.  

Swami Kriyananda Dies at 86 - Direct Disciple of Paramahansa Yogananda

Swami Kriyananda (J. Donald Walters) (1926 – 2013), one of the foremost proponents of yogic teachings in the world, died on April 21, 2013. In 1948 at the age of twenty-two, he became a disciple of the Indian yoga master, Paramahamsa Yogananda. He was one of a few remaining direct disciples of Yogananda. Kriyananda, who was born J Donald Walters, breathed his last at 12 noon India time at his home in Asissi, a spokesperson for Ananda Sangha said here. He was actively associated with Ananda Sangha. Swami Kriyananda wrote around 140 books and 400 pieces of poetry. He also gave thousands of lectures around the world. You can find more about Swami Kriyananda here. Teachings of Swami Kriyananda Fatigue is a symptom of self centeredness – Swami Kriyananda To rise above limitations we have only to realize that we are deeper than our personalities – Swami Kriyananda Swami Kriyananda Musings

Mother of Pandu in Mahabharat

Who is the mother of Pandu in the Mahabharata? Pandu was the father of the Pandavas.  Story of the birth of Pandu is narrated in Adi Parva of the Mahabharata. In the chapter it is mentioned that the Mother of Pandu is Ambalika. Ambalika was the youngest of the three daughters of Kashi. She was married to Vichitravirya, the king of Hastinapura and son of Shantanu. Vichitravirya died before he had a child with Ambalika. To continue the Kuru lineage, Sage Vyasa was asked by Queen Satyavati to beget son. Thus Pandu was born to Ambalika. 

Good Time on Thursday as per Astrology in Hindu Religion

There are certain general time on Thursday that is considered good as per astrology in Hindu religion. This time is taken into account after looking into all the inauspicious time on Thursday. Please note that fixed good time on Thursday is not based on sunrise. It is the most auspicious period when there is no Rahukalam, Yamakandam and Gulikai. It must also be noted that Bhadra or Vishti is not considered in calculating the good time. Good Time on Thursday are: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Lot of other factors like Chogadia, Dhurmuhurtham, Yoga and Varjyam are generally not considered when looking for general good time.

Quotes on Mind Control from Hindu Scriptures

A collection of mind control quotes from Hindu scriptures. Charity, discharge of one’s duties, tranquillity of the mind and the senses, study of scriptures, various kinds of rituals and vows—all these have control of the mind as their one object. Subjugation of the mind is samadhi. It is the highest yoga. (Bhagavata, 11.23.46) Doubtless, O mighty-armed, the mind is intractable and restless; but by practice and detachment, O son of Kunti, it can be controlled. Bhagavadgita, (6.35) If the intellect, being related to a distracted mind, loses its discrimination and therefore always remains impure, then the embodied soul never attains the goal, but enters into the rounds of births.   (Katha Upanishad, 1.3.7) If the intellect, being related to a mind that is restrained, possesses discrimination and therefore always remains pure, then the embodied soul attains that goal from which one is not born again.  (Katha Upanishad, 1.3.8)

Hindu Women cannot worship Hanuman – Yet another Superstition

Women cannot worship Hanuman is another superstition spread by ignorant people who have no real knowledge of Hindu scriptures. Hanuman can be worshipped by anyone. Women can worship Hanuman. He is the epitome of Bhakti and Devotion. The best example of a devotee. The concept of women cannot worship Hanuman comes from the fact that He is a Brahmachari (he was never married). So women worshipping him is not permitted as He will not like it. This is a silly reason. As Hanuman himself as on numerous occasion stated that he is not at all moved by the presence of women – one such occasion was when Hanuman in search of Mata Sita enters the palace of Ravana and finds many women sleeping there. Hanuman then states his mind has not been least stirred by it. It is the mind that induces the sense either to virtue or to vice. He is thus pure – who considers all living beings alike. To any women who have doubt regarding worshipping Hanuman; go and worship Hanuman. Because he will pro

Good Time on Wednesday in Hindu Religion

There are certain general time on Wednesday that is considered good as per astrology in Hindu religion. This time is taken into account after looking into all the inauspicious time on Wednesday. Good Time on Wednesday are: 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM Please note that fixed good time on Wednesday is not based on sunrise. It is the most auspicious period when there is no Rahukalam, Yamakandam and Gulikai. It must also be noted that Bhadra or Vishti is not considered in calculating the good time. Lot of other factors like Chogadia, Dhurmuhurtham, Yoga and Varjyam are generally not considered when looking for general good time.

Good Time on Monday as Per Astrology in Hindu Religion

There are certain general time on Monday that is considered good as per astrology in Hindu religion. This time is taken into account after looking into all the inauspicious time on Monday. Good Time on Monday are: 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM Please note that fixed good time on a day is not based on sunrise. It is the most auspicious period when there is no Rahukalam, Yamakandam and Gulikai. It must also be noted that Bhadra or Vishti is not considered in calculating the good time. 

Download Hindi Ramayana for Free in PDF format – Full Hindi Ramayan E-book

The particular Hindi Ramayana e-Book in PDF format for free download is provided by Ved Puran website. The Ramayan Hindi pdf file is nearly 182 MB. It is a single file. Most of the minor stories are also part of the book. The book is a digital version of the Ramayana published in 1927.  Link –  Download Hindi Ramayana Book in PDF format  The link opens to a pdf file. It might take several minutes or hours depending on your net connect speed to open the file. The file is hosted by the Vedpuran website.

Good Time on Tuesday as per Astrology in Hindu Religion

There are certain general time on Tuesday that is considered good as per astrology in Hindu religion. This time is taken into account after looking into all the inauspicious time on Tuesday. Good Time on Tuesday are: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM Please note that fixed good time on Tuesday is not based on sunrise. It is the most auspicious period when there is no Rahukalam, Yamakandam and Gulikai. It must also be noted that Bhadra or Vishti is not considered in calculating the good time. Lot of other factors like Chogadia, Dhurmuhurtham, Yoga and Varjyam are generally not considered when looking for general good time.

Chidambaram Temple Timing – Opening and Closing Time of Chidambaram Temple in Tamil Nadu

The famous Chidambaram Temple in Tamil Nadu is dedicated to Shiva. Detail Timing – opening and closing time – is given below. At Chidambaram Temple Shiva is worshipped in three forms Nataraja, Crystal Linga form and as Nishkala (ether) in Chidambara Rahasyam. Chidambaram Temple is also one of the Pancha Bhoota Temple dedicated to Shiva. There are also murtis of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva in the temple. It is believed that worship at Chidambaram Temple will help in reliving health related problems. People are blessed with prosperity. Chidambaram Temple Timing Morning Time – 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM Evening Time – 4:30 PM to 10:00 PM

Book Review – The Bhagavata Purana – Sacred Text and Living Tradition

The Bhagavata Purana – Sacred Text and Living Tradition is a collection of 12 essays by scholars on various aspects of the Srimad Bhagavad Purana. The book is published by Columbia Universtiy Press, New York and is edited by Ravi M. Gupta and Kenneth R.Valpey. The book definitely is not for the reader who likes to read the stories in the Purana. This is for the student who is exploring the various aspects of Srimad Bhagavad Purana like the Time, Geography, Ethics, Cosmology, Love, Dance, Song, Recitation in modern day etc. The essays in the book takes for granted that the reader is well aware of the stories and theme of Bhagavata Purana. The essays provide deep insight into the stories of the Purana by comparing it with other scriptures and literature from around the world.  For example the first essay explores the story of Prahlad and Narasmiha Avatar of Vishnu:  “Prahlada’s virtue is his ability to listen and to speak truth, but also to find strength in silence whil

Ravan Chhaya – Oral Tradition of Shadow Puppetry in Orissa Based on Ramayana

Ravan Chhaya is struggling puppetry tradition in Orissa based on Ramayana. This oral tradition follows the Vichitra Ramayana version of Valmiki Ramayan by medieval poet Vishwanath Khuntia. Indian Express writes about Ravan Chhaya  The folk form, once seen as a means of livelihood of some indigenous communities, was neglected because of a lack of patronage and insufficient funds. It almost disappeared in the 1940s. Right now, Ravan Chhaya Natya Sansada, a registered cultural group, stands as the lone preserver of the art form, which exists only in an oral format. At the helm of the project is 75-year-old Khageshwar Pradhan, who has been staging Ravan Chhaya for more than 50 years. "We are often told to take up new projects with new stories, but Ravan Chhaya is the tradition and, with the support of Sangeet Natak Academy , we have retained the ancient format," he says. Unique to the Angul district of Orissa, Ravan Chhaya is performed at least 15 times a year in the

Vishu Photos – High Quality Images of Vishu Festival in Kerala

Vishu Photos provided by Malayalam newspaper Mathurbhoomi brings back nostalgic memories of Vishu festival observed in Kerala and by Malayalis around the world. Some of the highly quality images are several years old and takes us back to the old days. Vishu is observed on the first day of Malayalam Month Medam. It falls on April 14 and it is the zodiac New Year in Kerala. Vishukani, Vishukaineetam and special delicacies makes the day memorable. You can view the images of Vishu here at Mathrubhoomi  (please note the images are of big size and it will take a few mins to load depending on the speed of your connection. Not publishing the image here as they are copyrighted ones.

Story – Why Abhimanyu Was Killed At The Age Of 16?

Abhimanyu, son of Arjuna and Subhadra, was killed at the age of 16 at Kurukshetra in the Mahabharata war. He had entered the Chakravyuha (army formation) formed by the Kauravas and got killed as he did not have the knowledge to come out of the Chakravyuha. It is stated that Abhimanyu got killed at the age of 16 because of his previous birth. It is stated in the Chapter 67 of the Adi Parva of the Mahabharata that in his previous birth Abhimanyu was Varchas, son of Chandra, the moon god. A huge assembly was called by the Devas to decide on as to who all should incarnate on earth to help in the destruction of people following Adharma. Chandra was not ready to allow Varchas to incarnate on earth as he did not want to be separated from his son for a long period. But he also did not want to create an obstacle to the grand design of the Devas. So he agreed to Varchas being born as the son of Arjuna and return to him in the 16th year. The Devas agreed to the condition se

Sant Tukaram Coin – Book Online at India Government Mint

India Government Mint, Kolkata has made arrangements for the sale of commemorative coin sets in Proof and Uncirculated varieties dedicated to Sant Tukaram. The denomination of the coins are 100 rupees, 50 rupees, 10 rupees and 2 rupees and is available as a set. The set of coins are priced at Rs. 10,000. You can make bookings for the coin from April 1, 2013 to May 31, 2013. You can book online or using order form. You can find more details about the product and how to book here at the  official website of India Government Mint, Kolkata

Story Of Queen Kalavati And The Greatness Of Shiva Panchakshari Mantra

Kalavati was the daughter of king of Kashi and she was spirituality inclined from childhood. The greatness of Shiva Panchakshari Mantra (Om Namah Shivaya) is explained through the life of Kalavati in the Shiva Purana. Kalavati performed intense austerities. She was dedicated to the poor and needy. She led a pious and pure life. Impressed with her deeds, Sage Durvasa granted her the knowledge of Shiva Panchakshara Mantra. After several years, the beautiful woman married Dasaratha, King of Mathura. But the king could not approach Kalavati as he felt intense heat whenever he approached her. The king told about this dilemma to Kalavati. She then informed him that the Shiva Panchakshari Mantra is protecting her from sinners. To redeem the king from all his sins, Kalavati took him to Sage Garga. The holy saint asked the king to take bath in Kalindi River .  When the king came out of the river, it is said that his sins flew away in the form of tiny birds. The king was

Shambhu Lingeshwara Temple at Nalgonda – Reappears from Underwater

Shambhu Lingeshwara Temple at t Panagal near Nalgonda town had gone underwater with the rise in the water in the Udaya Samudram balancing reservoir. The temple is more than 1000 years old and had gone underwater around five years ago during a flood. The New Indian Express reports  The ‘kala shilpam’ of the Shambhu Lingeshwara Swamy indicates that it was constructed by the Kundur Chola kings sometime during 1040- 1290.  The temple went under the Udaya Samudram reservoir five years ago during a flood. No initiative was taken then to shift the temple idols to high ground.  The people of Chandanapally village told The Sunday Standard that the temple was built at the same time as the Chaya Someshwara temple and Pacchala Someshwara temple at Panagal village.  The temple is consecrated to Lord Shiva and Nandi, his vehicle, sentinel and acolyte. The Shila Shasanam inscription is engraved on the temple floor and local people feel that if the inscriptions can be decoded, the h

Sattvic Dining at the Higher Taste Restaurant of ISKCON Temple in Bangalore

Sri Krishna talks about Sattvic food in the Bhagavad Gita. The Higher Taste, a fine-dining restaurant at the Bangalore ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) temple provides sattvic food to visitors to the temple. Several dishes are prepared at the restaurant – all dishes are a combination of natural ingredients like grains, vegetables and milk, which nourish the soul and body. Kavitha Srinivasa writes in the Hindu Business Line aboutthe Higher Taste Restaurant of ISKCON Temple in Bangalore How about tucking into an eggless caramel cake? Or savouring Bukhare ki dal made without onions and garlic? The Higher Taste, a fine-dining restaurant at the ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) temple, Bangalore , offers nearly 100 such dishes that attract a steady stream of hard-to-please food connoisseurs, pilgrims and tourists across nationalities.  This kind of cooking is described as one that adheres to ‘Sattvic' principles. “The concept of

Nimishamba Temple at Srirangapatna, Mysore – Karnataka

Nimishamba Devi Temple is located about 3 km from Srirangapatna near Mysore in Karnataka. Nimishamba Devi is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The highlight of the temple is the Sri Chakra carved on black stone – Krishna Shila – worshipped in the sanctum sanctorum. It has the Bija-Aksharas and was worshipped by Adi Shankaracharya and Sri Vidyaranya. Story of the Origin of Nimishamba Temple Legend has it that a king Sumanaska wanted to perform a yagna for the welfare of the people. The king assigned the duty of performing the yajna to the prince of kingdom and Rajarshi Muktaraja. When the yajna started, two demons named, Janumandala and Sumandala overpowered the prince of the kingdom and disturbed the yajna. Rajarshi Muktaraja then prayed to Mother Goddess Shakti. Goddess Parvati appeared and annihilated the demons. She did not even take a fraction of a second to kill the demons. In memory of the divine event, Rajarishi Muktiraja built a temple dedicated to Goddess S

Rig Veda Chanting – Complete Audio of Rg Veda

This Rig Veda Chanting is provided by Veda Vichara website. You can listen to the complete Rg Veda for free. The chanting of the Rig Veda is as per the Shakala Shaka which is widely prevalent in South India . There are a total of 64 files. You can listen to each audio file through the mp3 player on the website. The time of a single file varies from 3o to 5o minutes. You can listen to Rig Veda Chanting here Related Download Rig Veda Text in English in Pdf Format

Uchangidurga Temple

Uchangidurga Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is located near Davanagere and Harapanahalli in Karnataka. Also known as, Utsavamba Temple and Ucchangamma Temple the shrine is located in a fort. The most important abhisheka in the temple include Panchamrutha Abhishek, Betel leaf puja, Ksheeraabhisheka and Kunkumarchane. Opening And Closing Time: Morning 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM Special Days 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM During Hunnime and Jatra uthsava temple will be opened day and night. Location:   Uchangidurga Temple  Temple is located on Ucchangi hill at Ucchangi Village . The temple is located at a equidistant of 29 KM from Davanagere and Harapanahalli.

Father of Sati – Who is the Father of Goddess Sati?

Sati was an incarnation of Mother Goddess Shakti. Who is the father of Sati? On earth, Daksha Prajapati was the father of Sati. Daksha did not like Shiva as he considered Mahadeva far removed from reality and led a life outside the society. But Sati loved Shiva. She married Shiva in spite of the objections of Daksha. But Daksha insulted Shiva and once performed a yajna without inviting Shiva. Sati who wanted to know the reason for Shiva not being invited was insulted by Daskha. She then committed self immolation. ( More on this story can be read here .)   

Top 5 websites to download Bhagavad Gita in English

There are numerous websites providing Bhagavad Gita in English. Here is a list of top five websites that provide Bhagavad Gita online for free in English. You can also download it for free. Download Bhagavad Gita in English with commentary of Swami Chinmayananda for free. You can find more about this in this article.    ‘Bhagavad Gita As It Is’ is the English translation of the Holy Bhagavad Gita by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founder of the Hare Krishna Movement (ISKCON). You can find more details about it here in this article   Bhagavad Gita Shankaracharya Commentary in English – Read Gita Bhashyam of Sri Shankaracharya   Ramanuja Gita Bhashya in English – Read Bhagavad Gita Bhashyam of Sri Ramanujacharya   Yathartha Gita in English by Shri Paramhans Swami Adgadanandji – You can download the Gita in separate pdf files.  Note – This list is not based on any criteria. It is purely meant to provide information on Bhagavad Gita available onlin

Puja Room Direction in Hindu Home

Vittal (Sri Krishna) and  Rukmini The Puja room or prayer room direction in Hindu home should be in the northeast or east of the house. Murtis (Idols of Gods) should face west so that we face east while worshipping.  The murtis should not be placed in bedrooms. The images of Gods also should not directly face the main door. Murtis of Hindu Gods should not be kept in the puja area facing each other. 

Father of Sita – Who is the Father of Mata Sita in the Ramayana?

Mata Sita an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi and appeared on earth with the sole purpose of being the wife of Sri Ram, the incarnation of Vishnu. There is no straight answer to as who is the father of Sita in Ramayana. This is because King Janaka had got Mata Sita while ploughing the field. But in most scriptures, King Janaka is considered to be the father of Sita as he received him from Mother Earth. It must be noted that there are several regional folk stories which suggest that Ravana was the father of Sita but this is not based on any scriptural authority.

Swami Vivekananda Coin - 150 Birth Anniversary Coin on Sale – Book Online at India Government Mint

India Government Mint, Kolkata has made arrangements for the sale of commemorative coin sets in Proof and Uncirculated varieties released on the occasion of ‘150 Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda'. The denomination of the coins are 150 rupees and 5 rupees and is available as a set. The set of coins are priced at Rs. 4,414. You can make bookings for the coin from April 1, 2013 to May 31, 2013. You can book online or using order form. You can find more details about the product and how to book here at the official website of India Government Mint, Kolkata

Nimishamba Temple Srirangapatna Darshan Timings – Mysore

Nimishamba Temple is dedicated to Mother Goddess and is located in the Srirangapatna area in  Mysore  in Karnataka. The details temple timings are given below. The temple has extended darshan and closing and opening timings during festivals and other important temple days. Nimishamba Temple  Timings: Daily Timie: 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM General Holidays 5:00 AM to 8:30 PM Magahunnime day 2:00 AM to 8:30 PM During Dhanurmasa 4:00 AM to 8:30 AM During festivals and special days the timings vary.

Ekadash Rudra Shiva Temple in Uttarkashi in Uttarakhand

Ekadash Rudra Shiva Temple located at Hanuman Chowk in Uttarkashi in Uttarakhand is dedicated to Hindu God Shiva and Ambika Ji (Goddess Parvati). Eleven Shivling and an eight metal alloy murti of Goddess Ambika. The temple was built in 1901 AD by queen of Jaipur. There are also murtis of Ganesha and Nandi in the temple. The most important festivals observed in the temple are the Navratri and Shivratri. The temple is open from 5:00 AM in the morning. The temple is located at Hanuman Chowk at the center of Uttarkashi town. There are numerous hotels and shopping places at Hanuman Chowk.