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Showing posts from October, 2013


Simha Rasi Color – Simh Rashi Lucky Colour

There are two colors that are dedicated to Simha Rasi and they are the lucky colour associated with the Rashi based on Moon astrology. The Simh Rashi lucky colours are Red and Rose. Wearing Red and rose colors color dress and wearing red color stones are good for this rashi people, especially while going for interview, work and for other auspicious events Please note that some regions and communities have different colors for Simha Rashi like other shades of red or rose. Wearing red or rose color dress for competitions, exams etc are lucky for Simh Rashi people. You can wear red color precious stones like ruby etc for desire fulfillment.

Rudra – Hindu God Rudra Shiva

Rudra is an important deity in the Vedas and is later identified with Shiva. Rig Veda defines Rudra as Red and shining brightly as the sun. He wears matted locks. Samhitas states that he has thousand eyes and his stomach is red and black blue. He wears skin of animals. In Vedas, Rudra is a god of destruction. In later scriptures, Rudra is identified as Rudra Shiva. He resides in the Mujavant Hills and Kailash in the Himalayas . Rudra was worshipped by apsaras, demons, kubera and other divine beings known as Rudra Ganas. Emblem of Rudra is a bull. His weapons are bow and arrow and Vajra (thunder bolt). Rig Veda (2.33) compares him with wild animal, although ferocious he can be propitiated and blessing received. He cures all the incurable diseases. In Brahmanas, Rudra is the son of Usha Prajapati and is given eight names – Rudra, Sarva, Ugra, Asani, Bhava, Mahadeva, Shiva and Pashupati. The first real identification of Rudra with Shiva is found in the Shvetash

Mother of Yudhisthira – Who is the Mother of Yudhisthira in the Mahabharata?

Who is the mother Yudhisthira in the Mahabharata? Was he divine born or from a human mother. Story mentioned in the Mahabharat answers as to who is the Mother of Yudhisthira. Queen Kunti was married to Pandu, the prince of Hastinapura. But Pandu could not have sexual union with Kunti because of a curse. Kunti in her teenage 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 Yudhisthira was born when Kunti summoned Dharmaraja, (Yama, the Lord of Judgment) The mother of Yudhisthira is Kunti. Now a question arises as to did Kunti give birth to Yudhisthira or she received him as an infant as a blessing from Yama. No one has ever bothered to answer this question in the scriptures but it is widely believed that she gave birth to Yudhisthira.

Symbolic Meaning of the Three Lines on Forehead of Hindus Drawn using Holy Ash

The three lines on forehead of Hindus drawn using holy ash is known as Vibhuti. The three lines have deep symbolic meaning attached to it. The three lines made of holy ash are usually worn by Shaiva devotees. The three lines symbolically represent the three forms of Shiva. The upper line represents Maheshwara; the middle line represents Sadashiva and the lower line represents Mahadeva. The three lines represent self, inner self and the supreme self. Upper line represents atman (self); middle line represents antarikshaloka (inner self) and the lower line represents Paramatman (Supreme Self). The three lines symbolize the three house hold fires ever to be burning. The upper line is grahapatyagni; the middle line is dakhinagni and the lower line is ahavaniyagni. The three lines represent the three measures of Pranava, OM (A, U, M). The upper line represents A; the middle line represents U and the lower line represents M. The three lines also symbolize the three guna

Deepavali dates in Malaysia in 2024 – Diwali Dates in Malaysia in 2024

Deepavali or Diwali is the most popular festival associated with Hindu religion and one of the popular Hindu festivals in Malaysia . Diwali 2024 date in Malaysia is on October 31. Lakshmi Puja is on  October 31, 2024. Diwali literally means ‘an array of lamps’ and symbolizes the removal of spiritual darkness and the ushering in of knowledge capable of realizing Brahman (That) – the Supreme Being present in all living and nonliving. In Tamil Culture, Deepavali is the day in which Sri Krishna annihilated demon Narakasura. It is observed on the fourteenth day of waxing phase of Ashwin month or Ashwin Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi Tithi. Note – Diwali in Tamil Culture is observed a day before Amavasya or the Diwali day in North India .

Mithuna Rasi Color – Mithun Rashi Lucky Colour

There are two colors that are dedicated to Mithuna Rasi and they are the lucky colour associated with the Rashi based on Moon astrology. The Mithun Rashi lucky colours are Green, Parrot Green and light green. Wearing green color dress and wearing green color stones are good for this rashi people, especially while going for new job or interview. Please note that in some regions and communities have a different color for Mithuna Rashi like other shades of green. Wearing green color dress for competitions, exams etc are lucky for Mithun Rashi people. You can wear green color precious stones for financial solutions, freedom from debt, to attain wealth etc.

Baijnath Temple in Himachal Pradesh

Baijnath Temple is located on the Pathankot-Chakki-Manali National Highway No. 20 and is around 20 km from Palampur in Himachal Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Hindu God Shiva – a Swayambhu Shivling is worshipped in the temple. The Shivling worshiped in the temple is believed to have appeared during the Treta Yuga. Shiva is worshipped at Baijnath Temple , as the Lord of the Physicians. It is believed that Shiva pleased with the devotion of demon king Ravana in the Ramayana decided to accompany him in the form of a Shivling. Ravana carried the Shivling from Himalayas but when he reached the area near Baijnath, he needed to answer nature’s call. Ravana handed the Shivling to a shepherd and went to answer nature’s call. The Shepherd could not carry the huge weight for long time and he placed it down. This Shivling is worshiped in the Baijnath Temple . The present temple was built in AD 1204 around the Shivling by two merchant brothers. The temple has a huge mu

Goddess Lalita Gauri

Goddess Lalita Gauri is a manifestation of Goddess Shakti. Information about her is found in the Kashi Khanda of Skanda Purana. She is the Goddess of prosperity. Most important festival and ritual dedicated to Goddess Lalita Gauri is observed on the 2nd day of the Krishna Paksha of Ashwin month. Lalita Gauri is one of the Goddess worshiped during the Chaitra Navratri (March April). Festivals and rituals dedicated to this form of Goddess Lalita are more popular in North India. An important temple dedicated to Goddess Lalita Gauri is located at Varanasi near Lalita Ghat. It is considered highly meritorious to take bath in the Lalita Ghat. Fasting and rituals dedicated to her are observed for attaining prosperity.

On Mural Paintings in Temples in Kerala

Mural Paintings are part of more than 150 prominent temples in Kerala. Originally found as cave paintings in the ancient Thirunandikkara Cave Temple , mural paintings in Kerala is the profusion of line drawings in the paintings and their distinctive coloring. The mural paintings strictly adhere to the Dhyana Slokams of each deity that they represent.  Traditionally, only four colors were used. Not counting white, which was the unpainted area, the other colours were yellow, red, black and green. All colors are derived from organic sources. The preparation of the surface on which Mural is painted itself took several weeks of plastering and drying (upto 28 times) using a mix of lime and tender coconut water with the final layer being “only as thick as a tamarind leaf!” You can read more about Mural Paintings in Temples in Kerala in The Hindu  “There were stylistic differences in the way murals were painted in the north and south,” points out Prince Thonnakkal

Siddhivinayak Live Darshan on Mobile – Android and Iphone Apps for Shree Siddhivinayak Temple Live Darshan from Mumbai

Siddhivinayak Live Darshan on Mobile is that of the famous Siddhivinayak Temple at Prabhadevi in Mumbai. Android and Iphone Apps for Shree Siddhivinayak Temple Live Darshan is available now iTunes and Google play. The famous  Siddhivinayak   Temple  at Prabhadevi in Mumbai is one of the first Hindu temples in the world to offer online live Darshan of the presiding deity. The live webcasting is viewed by thousands of people daily.  Siddhivinayak Live Darshan Android Apps Siddhivinayak Live Darshan Iphone Apps Related Siddhivinayak Live Darshan  

Kanakagiri Kanaka Chalapathi Temple – Kanakagiri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple in Karnataka

Kanakagiri Kanaka Chalapathi Temple is located at Kanakagiri in Karnataka and is dedicated to Lakshmi Narasimha. The temple is around 22 km from Gangavati Town . Narasimha form of Bhagvan Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi are separately worshipped in the temple. The combined form of Lakshmi and Narasimha worshipped in the temple is in Shaligram form. Kanakagiri Kanaka Chalapathi Temple is famous for its architecture and a gigantic chariot. The temple is a classic example of Vijayanagar architecture. The temple is surrounded with an outer enclosure the prakara of the size 208 x 90 feet accommodates over 10,000 people to congregate at one place. The huge hall of 54 feet length and 36 feet width is decorated with lion faced pillars. The huge chariot in the temple known as Kanakaraya Ratha has 6 wheels and each wheel has 9 feet circumference. Kanakagiri Kanaka Chalapathi Temple Darshan Time: The Temple is open for Darshan from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM The Darshan

Thiruvannamalai Girivalam – Importance of Girivalam at Arunachaleswarar Temple at Thiruvannamalai

Thiruvannamalai Girivalam (going around the Hill) is undertaken around the Holy Arunachalam Hill which is worshipped as Shiva and is associated with the famous Arunachaleswarar Temple at Thiruvannamalai in Tamil Nadu. The unique feature here is that the entire hill is worshiped as Shiva. The entire circumambulation path is 14 kilometers. The holy hill is 2668 feet high. Thiruvannamalai Girivalam is usually performed on the full moon day or Purnima. The Girivalam can be performed during day and night. The Holy Hill was Agni (fire) during Kritya Yuga; Manikkam (Emerad) during Treta Yuga; Pon (Gold) during Dwapar Yuga and is Kallu (Rock) during Kali Yuga (the present age). Eight Shivlings are located around the Hill and the eight Shiva Lingams are: Indra Lingam, Agni Lingam, Yama Lingam, Niruthi Lingam, Varuna Lingam, Vayu Lingam, Kubera Lingam and Esanya Lingam. An ancient temple known as Adi Annamalai Temple is also located on the Girivalam

Shloka in Hanuman Chalisa Calculates the Distance between Earth and Sun

The 18th shloka in Hanuman Chalisa talks about Hanuman jumping to sun thinking it is a fruit. It is now suggested that the particular shloka in Hanuman Chalisa calculates the distance between earth and sun. Hanuman Chalisa was written during the 15th Century. Information provided by Abhishek Chandan The 18th Shloka reads like this: Yuga Sahastra Yojan Par Bhanu Liliyo Tahi Madhur Phal Janu Yuga means the sum of Four Yugas (1 complete Mahayuga) with unit in divine years. Sahastra is 1000. Yojan is 8 miles. Bhanu is Sun Satyayuga= 4800 divine years Tretayuga=3600 divine years Dwaparyuga=2400 divine years Kaliyuga=1200 divine years  So 1 Mahayuga= 12000  Now next is sahastra common Sanskrit word meaning "1000" Next is “Yojan” also know as that equals to 8 miles Yuga X Sahastra X Yojan (in miles) = 12000X1000X8= 96,000,000 miles Now 1 mile= 1.6km So 96,000,000 miles= 96,000,000X1.6 km = 153,600,000km. Today estimated distance is approxim

Purandara Dasa Teachings

A small collection of quotes and teachings of Purandara Dasa. When I meditate on you, O Lord, what harm can others do to me? What can they achieve by their jealousy when I am surrounded by your boundless mercy and when I repeat your name constantly? Do ants lay siege to fire? Will the dust that a scampering horse throws up envelop the sun? Is there anything that can go against one who has patience? Will the mountain tremble when the wind blows? If a thief tries to break open and seize the money which he sees in a mirror, can he get hold of it? From market to market ’tis needless to run; The shops know it not, the bazaar can have none. My candy, you see, is the name of Vishnu, So sweet to the tongue that gives praise as is due.

Lohaja Lingas – Shivling Made of Metals

Lohaja Lingas are Shivling made of metals. They form part of Chala Lingas or lingas that are moveable. Lohaja lingas can be made of eight metals. They are gold, silver, copper, bell-metal, iron, lead, brass and tin. Shivling made of metals are worshipped in home. They are small in size. The most popular is the Shivling made of brass. Lohaja Lingas are worshipped in the subsidiary shrines in many temples dedicated to Ganesha, Devi, Muruga and Vishnu. Impure metals or combination of two metals should not be used to prepare Lohaja Lingas.

Who Killed Demon Narakasura?

The story of demon Narakasura is found in the various Puranas including Bhagavatam. It is also mentioned in the Mahabharata. Narakasura was killed by Satyabhama, an incarnation of Goddess Bhu Devi. Please note that it was not Sri Krishna who killed Narakasura. Demon Narakasura had got a boon that He will only be killed by his mother. Sri Krishna to annihilate the demon took the help of Satyabhama, a manifestation of Bhu Devi who was the mother of Demon Narakasura. Related Story of the Birth of Narakasura

Ganesha Murti in Wood – Intact for 95 years

Shintre Family at Kurli in Chikkodi Taluk in Bellary in Karnataka prays to a Ganesh Murti made of wood. The murti is more than 95 years old. The murti has never been repainted or repaired. The wood is so exquisite that it has not faded nor has it developed any cracks. Thousands of people visit the Ganesha Murti which is offered sarvajinik prayers during Ganesh Chaturthi. Deccan Chronicle Reports The Shintre family achieved great success in all business sectors they ventured into 95 years ago that made them retain the idol brought into their house the same year till now.  The house where the Shintres have installed the idol is 150 years old where many generations of the family have stayed over the years. The idol was carved in  wood as per the Hindu calendar in 1840 (95 years ago). The date on which the idol was carved has been written on the idol. The wood is so exquisite that it has not faded at all, says Vijaykumar.  Many villagers from Kurli have been regularly

Rudraksha for Wealth – Rudraksh Worn For Gaining Money

The best Rudraksha for attaining wealth is the 21 face Rudraksh . It is widely believed that those wearing the 21 Mukhi Rudraksh will gain money through the blessing of Kuber and Goddess Lakshmi. 7-face Rudraksha is also associated with wealth and property. The 7 mukhi is believed to have the blessing of Goddess Lakshmi. 6-face Rudraksh is also worn for gaining money as it is associated with Shukra Grah. It must be noted here that there is no single opinion in this matter. Astrologer and Rudraksh experts give different opinions. The best solution is to wear the Rudraksh that you have in your possession and be devoted, hard working and determined. Shiva is present in all forms of Rudraksh. So what matters in the end is your devotion. Related Story of Origin of Rudraksh

Aslesha Nakshatra Marriage Compatibility – Ashlesha Nakshatra Matching Stars for Marriage

Aslesha Nakshatra Marriage compatibility or matching stars with Ashlesha for marriage in detail is given below. It is the 9th among the 27 Nakshatra in Hindu horoscope and astrology. The best matching star with Ashlesha born is a person born in Kartika (or Krittika) and Revati Nakshatra. Other good matching stars with Aslesha Nakshatra are Mrigasira (3rd and 4th quarter), Ardra, Punarvasu (1st, 2nd, and 3rd quarter), Jyeshta, Dhanishta, Shathabhisak, Purva Bhadra (4th quarter) and Uttara Bhadra. Ashwini, Bharani, Rohini, Mrigasira (1st and 2nd quarter), Punarvasu (4th quarter), Pushya, Aslesha, Magha, Uttara Phalguni, Chitra, Vishakha, Anuradha, Mool, Purva Shada, Uttara Shada, Purva Bhadra (1st, 2nd, 3rd quarter), are okay – neither good nor bad. Stars that do not match with Aslesha Nakshatra are Purva Phalguni, Hasta, Swati, and Shravan.

Chauth Mata Mandir at Barwada in Rajasthan – Chauth Mata Temple at Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan

Chauth Mata Mandir is located at Chauth ka Barwada in Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Chauth Mataji. Chauth Mata Temple also houses a murti of Hindu God Ganesha. The mandir is located around 180 km from Jaipur. The temple is located around 25 km from Sawai Madhopur. The original temple is believed to have been built in 1394 AD. Shri Bhim Singhji Chauhan the ruler of the region had a dream of Goddess Chauth Mataji and she guided him to build a temple in the region. He then built a temple on the highest mountain of the Aravali Ranges . Later a murti of Ganesha was installed in the vicinity of the temple. The Goddess Chauth Mataji murti worshipped in the temple sits on a lion. The murti is made of white marble. There is also a murti of Bhairava in the sanctum sanctorum. One has to climb nearly 700 steps to reach the temple. The double storied temple has a verandah and is typical Rajasthani Mandir. The most important festivals in the te

Meat Eating Tradition in Hindu Religion

Article titled ‘In search of Yajnavalkya’s lunch’ by Samar Halarnkar in Livemint attempts to discover the meat eating tradition in Hindu religion. Shatapatha Brahmana is one of the chief sources of information about the Vedic age and the author of the article uses it as a prime source to prove his view that ancient Hindus ate meat including beef. From the article - In search of Yajnavalkya’s lunch  One of those dogmas deal with what is now a central tenet of Hindu society: the abjuring of meat, particularly beef. But meat-eating—and its rules and customs—is widely discussed in Hinduism’s sacred scriptures. In his seminal work, Indian Food: A Historical Companion, the late K.T. Achaya, a food historian and scientist, describes in great detail how the Harappans, the Vedic Aryans and ancient south Indians, “like their contemporaries elsewhere in the world”, enjoyed eating a variety of animals and drinking liquor. Achaya notes that 50 animals were deemed fit for sacrifice, “and by

Vedbhavan - A Gurukul Institution in Pune – To Publish Rig Veda Samhita

Vedbhavan – a gurukul institution that teaches ancient Hindu scriptures in Pune – is planning to publish a two-volume Rig Veda Samhita as part of its silver jubilee celebration that starts from November 7, 2013. It is believed that the Samhita will be published in Sanskrit – no information regarding the language in which it is published is available.  Times of India reports   Addressing a news conference here on Monday, Vedbhavan's head, Moreshwar Ghaisas said, "The Rigveda Samhita will be of 1,200 pages, divided into two volumes, as was earlier compiled by renowned scholar Pandit Satavalekar. The Vedbhavan has been working on the project for the last many years to make it accurate, keeping in mind minute details."  Ghaisas said the Vedpathshala was started in the city around 68 years ago for teaching the Vedas to young students. It was later shifted to Vedbhavan in Kothrud on October 15, 1989. Vedbhavan has continued to teach ancient Hindu scriptures to students

Abhicharika Form of Vishnu Worshipped

Four forms of Bhagvan Vishnu are worshiped in temples and sacred places. They are Yoga, Bhoga, Vira and Abhicharika forms. The abhicharika form of Vishnu is worshipped very rarely and is done by those people who have evil designs. Abhicharika form of Vishnu is worshipped for the purpose of defeating enemies. To cause damage and death on enemies. As the murti is inauspicious and unfit, it is not worshipped in temples. Such murtis are usually installed in forests, mountains, marshy tracts, forts and in secret places. The murt is in the usual form of Vishnu worshipped in temples. It is immovable.

Sugavaneswarar Temple at Salem in Tamil Nadu

Dedicated to Hindu God Shiva, Sugavaneswarar Temple at Salem in Tamil Nadu is a 500-year-old temple spread over two acres of land in the heart of Salem town. The Rajaganapathy temple and the Kashi Vishwanathar Temple are two equally popular subsidiary shrines in the large temple complex. The temple is located on the banks of Manimuthar River . The main linga that is worshipped in the temple is Swayambhu – appeared on its own. The linga is slightly slanted. The main murti of Shiva in the temple is believed to have been worshipped by Suka Muni, Kamadhenu and Adi Sesha. The temple is also associated with saint poetess Avvaiyar. Goddess Parvati is worshipped in a separate shrine as Swarnambigai, Maragathavalli and Patchivalli. Legends of Sugavaneswarar Temple at Salem Legend has it that the temple was one among the five temples visited by Bheema, the second of the Pandava Brothers.  The temple and the place is known as Sukha Vanam as Suka Rishi worshipped the Shiv

A C Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada Thoughts

If you are put into a dangerous position and you know how to save yourself from it, that very danger can become a source of pleasure for you. In the material world, the living entity directs his will toward sense satisfaction because he has forgotten the spiritual field of willing. When the same will is directed toward satisfying the sense of the Supreme – Krishna – that is the eternal willing of the living entity. In order to be happy, you must change the quality of your willing through purification. The purification process is bhakti – chanting and hearing the name, qualities and pastimes of the Lord. That purifies the will. If we purify our existence, we can attain eternal happiness, spiritual bliss. Everyone is working hard for happiness, but how can happiness  be attained in a diseased condition? The material disease is an impediment to happiness. This disease has to be cured. A C Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada Source – Book – Beyond Illusion and Doubt

Lakshmi Beej Mantra Text in English and Hindi

Lakshmi Beej Mantra is chanted for attaining peace and prosperity. Beej Mantra is a basic mantra dedicated to a deity in Hindu Religion. The Beej mantra for Goddess Lakshmi is Shreem. The complete mantra is given below: Lakshmi Beej Mantra in English Om Shreem Hreem Shreem Kamale Kamalalye Praseeda Praseeda Shreem Hreem Shreem Om Mahalakshme Nama: Lakshmi Beej Mantra in Hindi

Renukamba Temple at Chandragutti in Karnataka – Cave Temple Dedicated to Goddess Renuka

Renukamba Temple at Chandragutti in Karnataka is dedicated to Goddess Renuka . The temple is around 17km from Soraba. It is a cave temple and is in the form of half moon. The main deity worshipped in the temple is Goddess Renuka and she is also known as Guthiyamma. The hill on which the temple is located is known as Chandragutti. Story of Renukamba Temple at Chandragutti Legend has it that Renukamba, a king of the Chandragutti region, was married to Rishi Jamadagni. The king had got Renukamba as daughter after he offered prayers to Goddess Mookambika. Renukamba was such a devout wife that she could carry water in pots made of sand and she is used to carry the water pot on her head with snakes as pads for the pot. Not a single drop of water fell from her pot. But once Sage Jamadagni doubted her character and asked his son Parashurama to kill her. Parashurama took his mother to the cave at Chandragutti and cut her head leaving the torso in the cave. He took the head

Madhya Pradesh Ratangarh Temple Stampede October 13, 2013 – 110 dead and Counting– Do We Care?

Nearly 100,000 devotees converged for the final day of Navratri Festival on October 13, 2013 at Ratangarh Temple in Datia District in Madhya Pradesh. The stampede happened on a bridge leading to the temple killing more than 110 people mostly women and children. Do we Hindus care about the lives of our brothers and sisters? The official apathy and callous attitude shown towards crowd management during Hindu festivals is nothing new. Have we ever bothered to ask why there is always poor crowd-control techniques and planning by the authorities during Hindu festivals? This will continue in future because we Hindus are never united and are not bothered about the welfare of the community.  The stampede resulted due to the overcrowding on a bridge that leads to the temple. The bridge is 500m long and just 10m wide. This is not the first time a tragedy has struck in this temple . In 2006, 50 pilgrims had got washed away falling in panic into the Sindh River from the same bridge

Tiruvannamalai Temple Timings – Opening and Closing Time in Arunachaleswarar Temple at Thiruvannamalai

Tiruvannamalai Temple is dedicated to Shiva as Arunachaleswarar. Tiruvannamalai Temple Timings in detail is given below. The opening and closing time may vary depending on festival and auspicious days. During grahan (eclipse) period too temple might have change in darshan time. Tiruvannamalai Temple Timings Opening time in morning is at 5:30 AM The temple closes in the noon at 11:30 AM Opening time in the evening is at 5:00 PM The temple closes at night at 9:00 PM Time of the six important pujas in the temple: Ukshakala Pooja – 5:30 AM Kala Shanthi Pooja – 8:30 AM Uchikala Pooja – 11:30 AM Sayaratchai Pooja – 5:30 PM Irandam Kala Pooja – 7:30 PM Arthajama Pooja – 9:00 PM

Chintpurni Temple – Chinnamastika Temple at Chintpurni in Himachal Pradesh

Chintpurni Temple is dedicated to Goddess Chinnamastika Devi and is located at Chintpurni in Himachal Pradesh. The temple is located at an altitude of 940 meter atop the topmost mountain in the Sola Singhi Dhar in Una District. The temple is around 4 km from Bharwai village. Bharwai is located on the Hoshiarpur – Dharmashala Village . The murti of Chintpurni Devi in the temple is covered by flowers and red color clothes. The only visible part is the two eyes. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Chinnamastika – the popular name of Chintpurni . She is propitiated by devotees to attain self realization. She is depicted as holding her own severed head. The severed head and two yoginis are depicted as drinking the blood that is spurting out. Symbolically, the depiction of Chinnamastika suggests the non attachment of body and the self realization of the Supreme Self which is beyond the body.  Legend of Chintpurni Temple Temple It is widely believed that Pandit Mai

Suvachanani – Teachings from Hindu Holy Books

Suvachanani - teachings from Hindu holy books, folklore and other sources.  It is not a home without a lady, with a lady a house is called a home. The procrastinator perishes. Violence should be defeated with peace. Non-violence is the greatest righteousness. You cannot cure fools. Brains are not injected. For able people nothing is too difficult. For industrious people nothing is inaccessible. For the learned people no land is foreign land. For agreeable nobody is a foreigner. Only the truth wins, not the false. The body is for service of others. Greed is the root of sins. The Mother and the Mother Earth are superior to heaven. Character is the best adornment. Too much should always be avoided.

Vrischik Rashi Mantra in Hindi – Vrischika Rasi Mantra

Vrischik Rashi is the seventh among the 12 moon signs as per traditional Hindu moon astrology. This Vrischika Rasi Mantra in Hindi is the most important mantra and is chanted for overcoming all astrological related troubles that Vrischik Rashi faces. The mantra is highly meritorious and helps in avoiding danger, getting jobs and solving marriage related problems. The mantra can be chanted while performing daily prayers.  Vrischik Rashi Mantra in Hindi

Siddhidatri Maa – Goddess Siddhidatri Mata

Siddhidatri Maa is worshiped on the ninth day of Navratri and she is ninth among the Navadurgas. Siddhidatri Mata is worshipped for fulfillment of desires. A person attains siddhi through the worship of the Goddess.  Goddess Siddhidatri is worshipped by sadaks for attaining Dharm, Arth, Kam and Moksha. Siddhidatri Maa sits on the lotus flower. She is four-armed and holds chakra, mace , lotus flower and conch. This is no a fierce form of Goddess Shakti. She is shows motherly affection. She is worshiped by all those who wish to attain self realization. Therefore sometimes her image is depicted with saints seeking her blessing. In some images all kinds of people are seen seeking Her blessings including demons. This means she is mother of all does not discriminate among her children. Related  Goddess Siddhidatri Mata Mantra Lotus in Hinduism

Tula Rashi Mantra in Hindi – Tula Rashi Mantra

Tula Rashi is the seventh among the 12 moon signs as per traditional Hindu moon astrology. This Tula Rashi Mantra in Hindi is the most important mantra and is chanted for overcoming all astrological related troubles that Tula Rashi faces. The mantra is highly meritorious and helps in avoiding danger, getting jobs and solving marriage related problems. The mantra can be chanted while performing daily prayers.  Tula Rashi Mantra in Hindi

Mother of Arjuna – Who is the Mother of Arjun in the Mahabharata?

Who is the mother Arjun in the Mahabharata? Was he divine born or from a human mother. Story mentioned in the Mahabharat answers as to who is the Mother of Arjuna. Queen Kunti was married to Pandu, the prince of Hastinapura. But Pandu could not have sexual union with Kunti because of a curse. Kunti in her teenage 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 Arjuna was born when Kunti summoned Indra, the king of the Devas. The mother of Arjuna is Kunti. Now a question arises as to did Kunti give birth to Arjuna or she received him as an infant as a blessing from Indra. No one has ever bothered to answer this question in the scriptures but it is widely believed that she gave birth to Arjuna. 

Kanakagiri Utsava – Temple Festival at Kanakagiri Lakshminarasimha Swamy Temple

Kanakagiri Utsava is annual festival observed at the famous Kanakagiri Lakshminarasimha Swamy Temple . The festival is famous for Rathotsava and Jatra of Kanakachalapati. The important festival is held during the Krishna Paksha or waning phase of moon in Phalgun month (February – March). Rathotsava and Jatra is held during Phalgun Krishna Paksha (Bahula) Saptami – seventh day during the waning phase of moon in Phalgun month. Garudotsava, which is held during Phalgun Krishna Paksha (Bahula) Panchami – fifth day during the waning phase of moon in Phalgun month, is another important festival. The Rathotsava at the temple is unique as the Rath or the chariot that is pulled on the day is believed to one of the biggest in South India .

Mahagauri Mata – Goddess Mahagauri

Mahagauri Mata is a manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti and this form is worshipped on the eighth day of Navratri. This is a benign and kind form of Durga. Goddess Mahagauri is the mother who nourishes and blesses her children. She is fair, she is happy, she is innocent and she wears white colored clothes. Mahagauri Mata rides a white bull. She wears a crown with the markings of Chandra – moon god. She is four-armed. She holds trident and hourglass drum. Two of her hands are in Abhaya and Varada posture. In some images, She is shown as holding conch, chakra, bow and arrow. A striking feature is the bright light that emits from the precious stone that is part of her earrings. Mahagauri Mata is propitiated for redemption of sins. She blesses her children that they never remain hungry. She is also worshipped for attaining peace and wealth.  She is also worshipped for early marriage. Related Mahagauri Mata Mantra

Choth Mata Photo – Image of Goddess Choth Mata

Choth Mata is an incarnation of Goddess Shakti and is widely worshipped in many regions in Rajasthan in India . Below is a photo of Choth Mata worshipped in the famous temple dedicated to the Goddess in Sawai Madhopur. The image of Goddess Choth Mata is in jpeg format and contains all the attires that are used in the murti during pujas and prayers.

Mysore Chamundeshwari Temple Photos – Mysore Chamundeshwari Images

Chamundeswari temple is located atop the Chamundi Hill. Below are some Mysore Chamundeshwari Temple Photos. The images include that of Chamundeswari Devi, Festival, the temple, Mahishasura and the famous Nandi. The temples are copyrighted to the official website of the Mysore Chamundeshwari Temple . Click on the image for a larger view.

Mother of Sita in Ramayana – Who is the Mother of Sitaji in Ramayan

Mother of Sita in Ramayana is a perplexing question. There is no straightforward answer to the question as to who is the mother of Sitaji. In Ramayan, Mata Sita is an incarnation of  Goddess Lakshmi  and appeared on earth with the sole purpose of being the wife of Bhagvan Sri Ram, the incarnation of Vishnu. Sita was found by King Janaka while ploughing the field. As she came up from earth, it is widely believed that Mother Earth of Bhumi Devi is the mother of Sitaji. It must noted that some folklores and stories in certain communities suggest that Sita was the daughter of Mandodari, wife of demon king Ravana . Related Sita as Daughter of  Mandodari

Kalratri Devi – About Goddess Kalratri Mata

Kalratri Devi is a fierce manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti. Goddess Kalratri Mata is worshipped on the seventh day of the Navratri (September – October). She is also worshipped during the Paush Month (December – January). She gets the name Kalratri as she is dark in color. Kalratri Devi has disheveled hair which is spread out. She wears a garland made of shining material. Fire emits from her eyes and nostrils. She rides a donkey. Her upper part of the body is covered with a red cloth and lower part is covered with skin of a tiger. Kalratri Mata is four armed and two of her hands are in Varada Mudra (blessing) and Abhaya Mudra (protection). One hand holds a sickle. Sometimes in one hand she holds the head of an Adharmic person – at other times the hand holds a trident. The popular belief is that worshipping Kalratri Devi will provide relief from fear of darkness, ghosts, fire and water. Constant worship of her helps in defeating the enemies. The Goddess might

Siddhivinayak Timings – Opening and Closing Time - Siddhivinayak Temple Mumbai Daily Darshan Timings

Siddhivinayak Temple at Prabhadevi in Mumbai attracts millions of devotees in a month. Siddhivinayak Timings are given below. The temple daily darshan timings are in India Standard Time. Opening and closing time of the temple may sometimes change depending on local conditions. Siddhivinayak Timings Wednesday to Monday Temple is open from 5:30 AM to 9:50 PM Tuesday Temple is open from 3:15 AM to next day 12:30 AM (Wednesday early hours) Sankashti Chaturthi Timing (4th day after full moon) Temple is open from 4:30 AM to 90 minutes after moonrise. Monthly Vinayaki Chaturthi Timing (4th day after no moon) Temple is open from 5:30 AM to 7:30 AM Devotees are not permitted in the main Temple are from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM Temple is open from 1:00 PM to 9:50 PM Wednesday to Monday Details of Pujas and Timings Kakad Aarti - The early morning prayer: at 5.30 AM to 6.00 AM Shree Darshan - morning at 6.00 AM to afternoon 12.15 PM Naivedhya - after

Durga Puja and Prostitutes – Why Mud from Sex Workers Homes is collected During Durga Puja?

Goddess Durga Murti (idol) made during Durga Puja is incomplete without the soil from the house of a sex worker. The belief is that the soil should be begged for and received from a prostitute’s hand as a gift or blessing. The soil is then used in the preparation of Goddess Durga Murti which is worshipped during Durga Puja. But why mud from sex workers homes is collected during Durga Puja? The mud is collected because those people who visit the prostitutes for sex leave their purity and virtue outside the door thus making the soil in front of the home of a prostitute virtuous. The soil is known as ‘punya mati’ and the place where a prostitute resides is known as ‘nishiddho pallis’ in Bengali meaning forbidden territories. The mud is collected by the person who makes the idol a month earlier before the Durga Puja festivities begin. The belief is that Goddess Durga would be displeased if those who worship Her do not take the blessings of the prostitutes. This custom

Mesha Rasi Yantra – Yantra for Prayers and Worship for Mesha Rashi

Mesha Rashi people might face difficulties due to the bad position of Mangal Grah. The solution to it is the worship of a Shanti Yantra associated with the Rasi. Yantra suggested for Mesha Rashi born people is the Mangal Yantra. Daily prayers should be offered to it. Due to the bad influence of Mangal, Mesha Rashi people might face small accidents, heart ailments, poison related problems and might get bitten by venomous animals or reptiles. The solution suggested in astrology is the worship of Mangal Yantra. A Mesha Rashi born person can worship the Yantra at home or in any place the person resides.

Katyayani Devi - Goddess Katyayani Mata

Katyayani Devi is one of the popular forms of Goddess Durga and she is worshipped on the sixth day of Navratri in many regions. She got the name Katyayani as she was born in the Katya clan as the daughter of Sage Katya. A popular Vrata known as Sri Katyayani Vrat is observed by women to get ideal husbands in the month of Margshirsha. She is one of the nine Durgas or Nav Durgas worshipped during Navaratri. Details about Katyayani Devi are found in the Matsya Purana, Agni Purana and Vamana Purana. Katyayani Devi was a popular deity during the period of Hindu God Krishna. She was worshipped by Gopis and Gopas in Gokula. An image of Sri Katyayani Devi used to be made using the clay and mud from the Yamuna River and was worshipped for a month. This was known as Katyayani Vrata. At the end of the month, the idol is immersed in Yamuna. Such a Vrata is performed in Tamil culture known as Margali Nombu in Margazhi month. Katyayani Devi is depicted as having four

Kanya Rashi Mantra in Hindi – Kanya Rashi Mantra

Kanya Rashi is the sixth among the 12 moon signs as per traditional Hindu moon astrology. This Kanya Rashi Mantra in Hindi is the most important mantra and is chanted for overcoming all astrological related troubles that Kanya Rashi. The mantra is highly meritorious and helps in avoiding danger, getting jobs and solving marriage related problems. The mantra can be chanted while performing daily prayers. Kanya Rashi Mantra in Hindi

Skandamata – About Goddess Skanda Mata

Skandamata is the Goddess worshipped on the fifth day of the nine days of Navratri Puja. Mother Goddess is known as Skanda Mata because she is the mother of Skanda or Kartik or Muruga – the commander of the army of Devas. Goddess Skanda Mata rides on a lion. Sometimes she is depicted as riding on a peacock.  She sits on her Vahana or vehicle in the lotus position – padmasana. Thus she is also known as Padmasan Devi. Skanda Mata is four armed. She holds lotuses in her two hands. With one hand she holds the young six headed Skanda or Kartik. One of her hand is in Varada Mudra posture.             Story of Skandamata Three demons – Surapadma, Simhamukha and Tarakasura – armed with powerful boon that only a son born of Shiva would kill them embarked on a massive rampage and devastation. The demons were of the belief that Shiva who was in deep meditation will not return to the life of a householder. So they thought the one destined to fight them will never be born.

Karka Rashi Mantra in Hindi – Kark Rashi Mantra

Karka Rashi is the fourth among the 12 moon signs as per traditional Hindu astrology. This Kark Rashi Mantra in Hindi is the mool mantra and is chanted for overcoming all astrological related troubles that the Rashi person is facing. The mantra can be chanted while performing daily prayers. The mantra is highly meritorious and helps in avoiding danger, getting jobs and solving marriage related problems.  Karka Rashi Mantra in Hindi

Kushmanda Devi – About Goddess Kushmanda Mata

Goddess Kushmanda Devi is a manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti. Kushmanda Mata is worshipped on the fourth day of Navratri – she is the fourth of the Navadurgas. The belief is that She created the universe and earth with a smile on her face. That is why she is known as Kushmanda Mata – the smiling and happy one. Legend has it that it was total darkness in the beginning. Goddess Kushmanda then gave a small smile and the creation began. Kushmanda Mata resides in the rays of the sun. She is so powerful that she overcomes the heat of the sun and provides all the necessary elements needed for the life to flourish. Kushmanda Ma is eight armed and she rides a lion. She holds lotus, bow, arrow, Kamandalu, Chakra, mace, rosary and kalash. She wears an ornate crown with rubies.  She wears a red color sari with green blouse. Kushmanda mata is associated with Surya Navagraha in a person's horoscope or Kundalini. The direction associated with the goddess is North. The

Photo of Udupi Sri Krishna Idol – Pictures of Udupi Sri Krishna Murti

Below are the photos of Udupi Sri Krishna Idol that is worshipped in the famous Udupi Sri Krishna Temple in Karnataka. The pictures of the black stone murti of Sri Krishna are captivating. Click on the image for a larger view: Udupi Sri Krishna Idol Image Udupi Sri Krishna Murti Picture Udupi Sri Krishna Picture Related Vittal Pindi at Udupi Sri Krishna Temple during Sri Krishna Janmashtami

Simha Rashi Mantra in Hindi – Simha Rashi Mantra

Simha Rashi is the fifth among the 12 moon signs as per traditional Hindu astrology. This Simha Rashi Mantra in Hindi is the mool mantra and is chanted for overcoming all astrological related troubles that the Rashi person is facing. The mantra can be chanted while performing daily prayers. The mantra is highly meritorious and helps in avoiding danger, getting jobs and solving marriage related problems. Simha Rashi Mantra in Hindi