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Showing posts from May, 2013


Thiruthuraipoondi Temple – Piravi Marundeeswarar Temple Thiruthuraipoondi in Tiruvarur in Tamil Nadu

Piravi Marundeeswarar Temple at Thiruthuraipoondi in Tiruvarur in Tamil Nadu is dedicated to Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Shiva is worshipped in the temple as Marundeeswarar and Gaja Samhara Moorthy. Goddess Parvati is worshipped as Periyanayaki.   Why the Shrine is Piravi   Marundeeswarar   Temple? A unique aspect of the temple is that Shiva murti faces West. It is said that worship of Shiva here helps in attaining moksha on earth – escape from cycle of birth and death. Self realization dawns on a person and he sheds ignorance. Piravi means birth. Worship here is to put an end to the suffering of birth - life - death - birth. The temple has subsidiary shrines dedicated to manifestations of Shiva and Mother Goddess. Ganesha and Muruga are also worshipped in the temple. Thiruthuraipoondi Temple and Ashwini Nakshatra The temple is also associated with the Ashwini Nakshatra. Those people born in Ashwini Nakshatra offer prayers here to get relief from horoscope related prob

Spiritual Benefits of Lapis Lazuli in Hinduism

Lapis Lazuli, known for its deep blue hue and shimmering gold flecks, has been revered in various spiritual traditions, including Hinduism. It is believed to be a stone of wisdom, spiritual growth, and deep inner peace, connecting the individual to the divine. Here, we will explore the spiritual significance, benefits, and ways to use Lapis Lazuli in day-to-day life from a Hindu perspective, along with mantras and practical solutions. 12 Spiritual Benefits of Lapis Lazuli in Hinduism Enhances Wisdom and Knowledge Lapis Lazuli is considered a symbol of truth and wisdom in Hinduism. It enhances intellectual abilities, intuition, and awareness. It helps to open the mind to higher knowledge, making it a powerful tool for spiritual seekers and students. Activates the Third Eye Chakra Lapis Lazuli resonates strongly with the Ajna or Third Eye Chakra, promoting spiritual insight, intuition, and inner vision. It helps deepen meditation practices and leads to self-realization by enhancing psych

Saraswati Pushkaram 2013 at Kaleshwaram in Andhra Pradesh

Saraswati Pushkaram 2013 as per Telugu calendars and Panchang is from May 30, 2013 to June 10, 2013. Saraswathi Pushkaram is held once in 12 years at Kaleshwaram in Andhra Pradesh. It is believed that Saraswathi River flows underground along with Pranahita and Godavari rivers at Kaleshwaram. According to the Kaleshwaram temple history, Pushkaram for Saraswathi River is conducted when ‘Guru’ (Jupiter) enters ‘Mithuna’ (Gemini) sign.  Kaleshwaram temple is located around 135 kilometer east of Karimnagar. The town is 277 kilometer north of Hyderabad.  Pushkara, or Pushkarams , is a popular Hindu ritual and festival which is held along 12 rivers. A Pushakaram along a particular river takes place once in 12 years when Jupitar (Brishaspati) enters a particular zodiac. The ritual of pushkaram is more popular in Andhra Pradesh. The main ritual involves taking a holy dip the river. In Saraswati Pushkaram, holy dip is taken in Pranahita and  Godavari  rivers.

Ashwini Nakshatra Marriage Compatibility – Ashwini Nakshatra Matching Stars for Marriage

Ashwini Nakshatra Marriage compatibility or matching stars with Ashwini for marriage in detail is given below. It is the first among the 27 Nakshatra in Hindu horoscope and astrology. The very best matching stars or the most combatable stars are Swathi, Vishaka (4th quarter), Anusham and Shravan. Other good matching stars with Ashwini Nakshatra are Ashwini, Bharani, Rohini, Hastam, Vishaka (1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter), Jyeshta, Moola, Purvashada, Purva Bhadrapada, Uttara Bhadrapada, and Revati. Kartika (1st Quarter), Mrigasira, Ardra, Punarvasu, Pushya, Maka, Purvaphalguni, Chithra (third and fourth quarter), Uttarashada, Dhanishta, Sadayam are okay – means neither good nor bad. Starts that do not match or not compatible with Ashwini Nakshatram are Kartika (2nd, 3rd and 4th quarter), Aslesha, Uthraphalguni and Chithra (1st and 2nd quarter).

Ekambareswarar Temple Chennai – Shiva and Shani Temple at Sowcarpet in Chennai

Ekambareswarar Temple at Sowarpet in Chennai is dedicated to Shiva and is also an important Shani T emple . It is believed that worshipping in the temple brings relief from Shani related astrological problems. The temple is more than 1000 year old and houses numerous unique murtis (idols). The main temple is dedicated to Shiva (Ekambareswarar) and Goddess Parvati (Kamakshi). The main murti worshipped in the temple is a Shivling. The murti of Mother Goddess is located on the base of the Shivling. There is a Sri Chakra in front of the Goddess.   Story of Chennai Ekambareswarar Temple Legend has it that there lived an ardent devotee of Shiva in the Sowcarpet region in Chennai. He used to visit the famous Ekambareswarar Temple at Kanchipuram on all important occasions and also on Pradosh days. But once on a Pradosham fasting day he had lot of work and his employer did not allow him to go to Kanchipuram. But still the devotee managed to reach the Kanchipuram temple.

Rare Murti of Goddess Saraswati in National Gallery of Australia – Should it not be in a Hindu Temple?

A rare murti of Goddess Saraswati is part of the collection National Gallery of Australia . A murti (ignorantly referred as idol) is a form given to a deity for worship in Hinduism. This particular Goddess Saraswati murti belongs to the early-mid 12th century, Hoysala dynasty in Karnataka in India . Goddess Saraswati is the goddess of learning, art and literature in Hinduism. The Australian reports  A sculpture of Sarasvati is one of the highlights of the Asian collection at Canberra 's National Gallery of Australia . It was acquired in 2011 with the support of Melbourne couple Pauline and John Gandel, who also gave the gallery a gift of $7.5 million in 2010.  She is adorned with lavish jewellery and seated cross-legged on an elaborate throne. She has four hands and each holds a symbolic feature: an elephant goad to nudge humankind towards virtuous living, a garland of beads for devotion, a noose showing that earthly desires are destructive and holding us back, and a

Panchadasi Teachings

Teachings from Panchadasi of Sage Vidyaranya The ego is the patron, the sense objects the audience, the intellect the dancer, the sense organs musicians playing on their instruments; and the lamp illumining them all is the witness consciousness. As a lamp reveals all objects while remaining in its own place, so does the witness consciousness, itself ever motionless, illumine the objects within and without (including the working of the mind) When all forms have been destroyed, the formless space still remains. So, when all the names and forms are negated, what remains is the imperishable Brahman. Just as the cotton-like flowers of the Ishika reed are burnt by fire in a moment, so the accumulated past actions of the knower are burnt up because of realization. The Shruti says that entering into different bodies the supreme Self assumes different forms. Vyasa, the author of the Brahma-Sutras, wrote the Sutra which illustrates the entry of Brahman into the bodies by

Goddess Bhavani - Importance - Symbolism

Goddess Bhavani is one among the numerous forms of Mother Goddess Shakti. This name is especially used to refer to the fierce form that She took to annihilate demons Mahishasura and his companions. Bhavani is one among the important names of Goddess Parvati. The name is also used to refer to Goddess Parvati as the consort of Shiva. Bhavani means existence or coming into being. Bhava also means samsara or the world. Mother Goddess is responsible for the seemingly real world of names and forms. She creates all beings in the world, nurtures them and protects life. Hence she is called Bhavani. (please note that there are numerous meaning attributed to the name Bhavani) It is also believed that Mother Goddess appeared in the form of Bhavani and blessed Sri Ram and Hanuman before the epic battle in the Ramayana to rescue Mata Sita. One of the most famous images associated with Goddess Bhavani is that Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj kneeling down before Her and taking Her blessing

Bharani Matching Stars For Marriage – Bharani Nakshatram Matching Stars

Bharani Nakshatra matching stars for marriage in details is given below. It is the second among the 27 Nakshatram in Hindu horoscope and astrology. The very best matching stars with Bharani are the person born on the 4th quarter of Vishakam Nakshatram. Other good matching stars with Bharani Nakshatram are Ashwathy, Vishakam (1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter), Pooradam, Uthradam, Pooruruttathi and Uthrittathi. Bharani, Kartika, Rohini, Makayiram, Thiruvathira, Punirtham (1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter), Makam, Pooram, Uthram, Chithira, Chothi, Moolam, Thiruvonam, Avittam and Chathayam are okay – neither good nor bad. Starts that do not match with Bharani Nakshatram are Punirtham (4th quarter), Pooyam, Ayiliyam and Atham.

Kalishila – Footprints of Goddess Kali on Rock near Kalimath – Uttarakhand

Kailshila is the place where the footprints of Goddess Kali can be found on a rock. It is believed that at this spot Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva offered prayers to Her before She began the battle against demon Raktabeeja. The actual footprints can be seen on a high rock – which is a 7 km trek from Kalimath Shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali. On the way to Kalishila (quite nearby) there is an ashram of an old Babaji - Barkha Giri – and a German pious woman – Ma Saraswati Giri. Kalishila is located near a triangular rock face inclined at 60 degree angle. There is a tiny landing stretch on the rock and there one can see a triangular transparent crystal nearly 4 inches wide jutting out of the rock. The stone looks like a Tantric Yantra and there are mantras inscribed on the rock. Legend has it that Indra and other Devas performed austerities here to invoke Goddess Shakti to defeat the demons. She is believed to have appeared here.

How To Overcome Bias In The Workplace? – Hinduism Solutions And Practical Approaches

Overcoming Bias in the Workplace: Hinduism Solutions and Practical Approaches Bias in the workplace can manifest in various forms such as gender, race, age, and even personal preferences. Hinduism offers profound wisdom, values, and spiritual practices to cultivate awareness, equality, and positive action. By embracing these spiritual teachings and applying them to modern-day challenges, we can create a more harmonious and inclusive work environment. 1. Spiritual Perspective on Equality Hinduism teaches the fundamental principle of the oneness of all beings. The Upanishads declare: "Tat Tvam Asi" – "You are That," implying that all of us are a manifestation of the divine, irrespective of our external differences. Recognizing this truth can help to counteract prejudices and biases by seeing the same divine essence in all coworkers and employees. In Bhagavad Gita (5.18) , Lord Krishna speaks: "The wise see no difference between a learned scholar, a cow, an elep

Mahakali Kalimath Temple in Uttarakhand – Kalimath Mandir

Kalimath is a holy place located near Guptkashi in Uttarakhand and is home to a famous Kalimath Mahakali Temple . The Kalimath Mandir is dedicated to Goddess Kali, the ferocious form of Goddess Kali.   Kalimath Temple is one of the Sidh Peeths and is around 10 km from Guptkashi. Legend has it that Goddess Kali annihilated the demon Rakthabeeja at the spot where the Kalimath temple is located. There is no murti of Goddess Kali in the temple. A Shri Yantra is worshipped as the main murti. Worship to a murti of Goddess Kali is made only on the Durga Ashtami day during Navratri (September – October). The puja to murti is performed by the chief priest and no one else is allowed to be present or witness the puja. The main temple is surrounded by very ancient small temples in stone dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, Saraswati, Gauri Shankar, Shiva (shivlings), nandi and Ganesha. Legend has it that illiterate Kalidas became the world renowned poet by the blessing of Goddess

Ganesha Gita in pdf in English – Spiritual Importance Of Reading Ganesha Gita In Hindu Religion

This Ganesha Gita book in pdf is English and you can download it for free. Ganesha Gita is part of Ganesha Purana dedicated to Sri Ganesh. The Purana contains the teachings and exploits of the various manifestations of Ganapati. Ganesha Gita which is part of the Purana contains the teachings of Gajanana. It is in the form of dialogue with kings and saints. Link – English Ganesha Gita in pdf Spiritual Importance Of Reading Ganesha Gita In Hindu Religion The Ganesha Gita is a sacred text in Hinduism that focuses on the teachings of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity who is revered as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and knowledge. While the Bhagavad Gita is the most famous and widely studied scripture in Hinduism, there are other Gitas dedicated to various deities, each offering unique insights and teachings. The Ganesha Gita, like other Gitas, serves as a guide for spiritual seekers on their path to enlightenment. Here are some aspects of its spiritual impor

How To Overcome Bike Riding Fear? – Hinduism Solutions And Practical Approaches

Overcoming the fear of bike riding, or any fear for that matter, can be approached from both a spiritual and practical perspective. Hinduism offers a rich tradition of guidance for conquering fear, rooted in devotion, positive affirmations (mantras), and philosophical wisdom. Below is a detailed exploration of how you can address bike riding fear, integrating Hindu solutions, practical steps, stories, mantras, and advice from the scriptures. 1. Spiritual Approaches in Hinduism Mantras to Overcome Fear Mantras hold great power in Hinduism for transforming one's mental state and invoking divine blessings for courage. Here are some specific mantras dedicated to deities associated with courage, protection, and overcoming obstacles: Lord Hanuman: Hanuman is the embodiment of strength, fearlessness, and devotion. He is invoked to gain inner strength and courage. Mantra: Om Hanumate Namah This mantra invokes Lord Hanuman’s power and is chanted to increase strength and remove fear. Recit

Guptkashi Temple - Story Of Vishwanath Temple at Guptkashi in Uttarakhand

Vishwanath Temple is a shrine shrine dedicated to Hindu God Shiva and is one of the most important temples in Guptkashi in Uttarakhand. The temple is visited by those undertaking the Chardham Yatra to Kedarnath Temple . This Guptkashi Temple is believed to have existed during the Mahabharata era. Legend has it that Shiva who did not want to give darshan to Pandavas after the Mahabharata war hid at the present Vishwanath Temple . Vishwanath Temple is visited after having darshan of Ganesha who has shrine outside the main temple. A unique aspect of the Vishwanath Temple is that it has a subsidiary shrine dedicated to Ardhnarishwar. It is situated on the side of the main temple. The murti worshipped is a combined form of Shiva and Goddess Parvati. A holy water body is located in the vicinity of the shrine and is fed by two streams – Gaumukh and Gajamukh.  

Ashwathy Matching Stars For Marriage – Ashwathy Nakshatram Matching Stars

Ashwathy Nakshatra matching stars for marriage in details is given below. It is the first among the 27 Nakshatram in Hindu horoscope and astrology. The very best matching stars are Chothi, Vishakam (4th quarter), Anizham and Tiruonam. Other good matching stars with Ashwathy Nakshatram are Ashwathy, Bharani, Rohini, Atham, Vishakam (1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter), Triketta, Moolam, Pooradam, Pooruruttathi, Utrittathi, and Revathi. Kartika (1st Quarter), Makayiram, Thiruvathira, Punirtham, Pooyam, Makam, Pooram, Chithira (third and fourth quarter), Uthradam, Avittam, Chathayam are okay – means not bad. Starts that do not match with Ashwathy Nakshatram are Karthika (2nd, 3rd and 4th quarter), Ayiliyam, Uthram and Chithirai (1st and 2nd quarter).

Gandharva Tantra Teachings

A collection of teachings from Gandharva Tantra The king of yogis, who under all circumstances is free from joy and sorrow, and is equanimous in the face of censure, praise, cold, heat, happiness, and sorrow; who is knower of the three (tantric) tattwas (atma-tattwa, vidya-tattwa, and shiva-tattva), as well as the significance of the guru’s feet and the meaning of the mantra; who is devoted to the deity and the guru and is given to the Shambhavi gesture — he, and not one who has merely had initiation, is a Kaulika fully consecrated to the tantric path. Meditation, worship, repetition of mantra, and homa (free offerings) are the four limbs of yajna; the web of nyasa (the process of placing mantras on different body parts for purification and energization) its body, and knowledge of the ritual its soul; bhakti its head, faith its heart, and skill in performance is termed its eyes; knowing thus the body of yajna one must perform yajna daily, complete with these parts; loss of any p

How to Overcome Bitterness – Hinduism Solutions and Practical Approaches

Bitterness is an emotional state where one feels deep resentment, anger, or dissatisfaction. In Hinduism, overcoming such negative emotions is crucial to spiritual and emotional well-being. The ancient scriptures offer profound insights and practical solutions to help us overcome bitterness and move towards inner peace and contentment. Below are practical day-to-day solutions, relevant mantras, spiritual stories, quotes from Hindu scriptures, and divine guidance from specific deities to help one overcome bitterness. 1. Understanding the Roots of Bitterness According to Hindu philosophy, bitterness arises from attachment (Maya) and unfulfilled desires (Kama). When one’s ego (Ahamkara) becomes prominent, and expectations are not met, bitterness can take root. The Bhagavad Gita, one of the foundational texts of Hinduism, emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and controlling desires as a means to overcome negative emotions. Bhagavad Gita (2:47): “Karmanye Vadhikaraste Ma Phaleshu Ka

Teachings from Aparokshanubhuti

"Aparokshanubhuti" is a Sanskrit term that roughly translates to "direct realization" or "immediate experience." It's also the title of a classic text attributed to the Indian philosopher and saint Adi Shankaracharya. Here are some key teachings from the Aparokshanubhuti: Self-Realization: The central theme of Aparokshanubhuti is the realization of the true Self, which is often referred to as Atman in Hindu philosophy. Shankaracharya emphasizes the importance of directly experiencing one's true nature beyond all intellectual understanding. Oneness of Atman and Brahman: Shankaracharya expounds the Advaita Vedanta perspective, which teaches that the individual self (Atman) is identical to the ultimate reality (Brahman). This realization of non-duality is considered the pinnacle of spiritual attainment. Illusion of Maya: Maya refers to the cosmic illusion that makes the world appear distinct and separate from Brahman. Shankaracharya teaches tha

Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai to Help Dialysis Patients

Siddhivinayak Temple Trust in Mumbai has decided to set up a dialysis centre near the Prabhadevi temple to help dialysis patients. The current rate of a single dialysis in Mumbai ranges from 1200 rupees to 1500 rupees. Siddhivinayak Temple is planning to do the dialysis for 250 rupees. DNA reports The temple has tied up with an NGO, Shri Veera Desai Jain Sangh, which runs a similar dialysis centre in Andheri, to get its 22-bed centre put together. The NGO, which has a budget of Rs3 crore, will also appoint the health experts needed to run the centre.  “We will charge patients the minimum fee. The rest of the expenses will be borne by the temple and us,” explains Chetan Vora, trustee of the NGO. The Sangh and the temple administration have signed a memorandum of understanding to have the centre up and running by July.

How To Overcome Bias? – Hinduism Solutions And Practical Approaches

Overcoming Bias: Hinduism Solutions and Practical Approaches In Hinduism, bias (prejudice or discrimination) is often seen as a manifestation of ignorance (Avidya) and ego (Ahamkara). To overcome bias, one must cultivate awareness, self-discipline, compassion, and understanding, rooted in spiritual practices. Hindu philosophy offers a rich tapestry of teachings, mantras, and deity worship that can help remove biases and lead to a more balanced, harmonious perspective in life. Here are solutions and practical approaches to overcoming bias based on Hindu teachings: 1. Self-Reflection and Spiritual Awareness (Atma-Vichara) Bias often stems from ego, attachment, and ignorance. The path of Jnana Yoga (the yoga of wisdom) emphasizes the importance of self-reflection to recognize and transcend personal biases. This approach encourages examining our thoughts and beliefs and acknowledging the limitations they impose on our perceptions of others. Practical Solution : Practice daily self-inquiry

Saraswati Gayatri Mantra in Hindi - Importance And Benefits Of Chanting Saraswati Gayatri Mantra Daily In Hinduism

Saraswati Gayatri Mantra is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. There are two versions of the mantra and you can read and save them in Hindi. This Gayatri mantra is chanted for blessings of Goddess of learning. Students should chant the mantra daily before starting their lessons. The mantra is also chanted by artists and poets. Saraswati Gayatri Mantra 1: Saraswati Gayatri Mantra 2: A devotee can chant anyone of both the mantras. Importance And Benefits Of Chanting Saraswati Gayatri Mantra Daily In Hinduism In Hinduism, the Saraswati Gayatri Mantra holds significant importance as it is dedicated to Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music, arts, wisdom, and learning. Chanting this mantra daily is believed to bring several benefits: Invoke Divine Blessings: Chanting the Saraswati Gayatri Mantra is a way of invoking the blessings of Goddess Saraswati. It is believed that by chanting her mantra, one can attain her divine grace, which enhances intellect, creativity,

Ashwini Star Temple In Tamil Nadu – Ashwini Nakshatra Temple

Ashwini Star Temple is the famous Thiruthuraipoondi temple located in Tiruvarur District in Tamil Nadu. The shrine is known as Marundeeswarar Temple and popular belief is that Ashwini Nakshatra people find relief after offering prayers here. Thiruthuraipoondi town is around 30 km from Tiruvarur Ashwini is the first among the 27 stars. Those having education, marriage and career related problems associated with Ashwini Nakshatra can offer prayers at this temple get relief. Marundeeswarar Temple is dedicated to Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Shiva is worshipped as Marundeeswarar. Goddess Parvati is worshipped here as Periyanayaki. There is a popular belief that the Ashwini Kumars worship in the temple daily. Ashwini Nakshatra born people can perform Dhanvantari Puja in the temple for health related problems. Those suffering from Shani related problems can perform the Shanishwara homa in the temple. Special worship is also offered to Mars or Chowwa or Angara

Ardhanarishvara Stotram mp3 Audio – Download Ardhanarishvara Stotram Hindu Prayer for Free

Ardhanarishvara Stotram is a popular Hindu prayer dedicated to Hindu God Shiva. This is the mp3 audio version of the prayer and you can download it for free. The Stotram is provided by Veda Mantiram website. Ardhanarishvara is a unique form as it clearly shows that Shiva and Shakti are inseparable. Link - Ardhanarishvara Stotram mp3  (in the opening page right click and use save link as option) Importance And Benefits Of Listening To Ardhanarishvara Stotram Daily In Hindu Religion Listening to the Ardhanarishvara Stotram daily holds significant importance in Hindu religion and offers several benefits: Devotional Practice: Ardhanarishvara Stotram is a hymn dedicated to Lord Ardhanarishvara, a composite form of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, symbolizing the unity of masculine and feminine energies. By reciting or listening to this stotram daily, devotees deepen their devotion and connection to the divine. Balance of Energies: The Ardhanarishvara form represents the harmoniou

Greatness of Visiting Ahobilam and Listening to story of Narasimha

There is a belief that for getting from redemption one only needs to go to Ahobilam – a sacred place associated with Narasimha incarnation of Vishnu. It is also said that listening to the story of Narasimha is greater than visiting sacred places and offering 1000 cows with horns tipped with gold.  The Hindu writes  But listening to the story of Narasimha on a full moon day or a new moon day is superior to this. When Lord Srinivasa and Padmavathi marry in Tirupati, the Lord asks Brahma to worship Lord Narasimha at the Ahobilam shrine before the divine wedding. Ahobilam is considered superior to a 1,000 yuga sojourn in Varanasi .  Eighteen Puranas mention the Narasimha avatara. To be rid of one's sins, one goes to Prayag, Gaya and Kasi. But all this is not needed, if one goes to Ahobilam, abode of Lord Narasimha, said Kidambi Narayanan. A day in Ahobilam is equal to many years of visit to other places.  Donating 1,000 cows, with gold tipped horns in Kurukshetra, is supposed

How To Overcome Bipolar Disorder? – Hinduism Solutions And Practical Approaches

Overcoming Bipolar Disorder: Hinduism Solutions and Practical Approaches Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by mood swings between depressive lows and manic highs. From a Hindu perspective, addressing bipolar disorder involves holistic approaches, combining spiritual practices, devotion, mantra chanting, meditation, and daily lifestyle changes. The following are practical solutions rooted in Hindu philosophy and traditions, specifically focusing on deities, mantras, and stories that help with mental well-being. 1. Worship and Ideal Deities In Hinduism, several deities are believed to have healing and balancing powers. The following gods and goddesses are especially revered for their ability to protect, heal, and bring stability to the mind: Ashwini Kumaras : The twin divine physicians are said to possess extraordinary healing powers, particularly over physical and mental illnesses. Worshiping them can help restore balance to the mind. Lord Hanuman : As the embo