Ishvara Gita is a holy text which is part of the Kurma Purana. The text is associated with Moksha or liberation. In the text, Suta asks Sage Vyasa to share the knowledge which will help in attaining liberation. Vyasa then describes the Ishvara Gita to the gathering of great saints. It is believed that Shiva explained the nature of Brahman and gave the knowledge of Moksha or liberation to sages Sanatkumara, Angiras, Bhrigu, Kanada, Kapila, Garga, Vamadeva and Vasishta. This was narrated by Vyasa to the gathering. Legend has it that the sages led by Sanatkumara performed intense austerities. Vishnu appeared before them. They wanted to know the secret of the world – how things continually revolve, what is this world, and why was it created; what is the soul, what is final beatitude, and what is the real nature of Parabrahman. Vishnu then directed them to Shiva who as Maheshwara narrated the secrets to the sages. These secrets are found in the Kurma Purana in the form of Ishv

The fierce form of Shiva Gana Veerabhadra is worshipped at the famous Kuravi Veerabhadra Swami Temple . Opening and closing time and darshan timings are given below. Kuravi Veerabhadra Swami Temple Timings is subjected to change during festivals, important rituals and during grahan (solar and lunar eclipse). Kuravi Veerabhadra Swami Temple Timings Morning opening time – 4:15 AM to 1:00 PM Evening opening time – 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM Detail puja timings Suprabhatha Seva – 4:15 AM to 4:30 AM Early Morning Puja – 4:30 AM to 5:00 AM Arijitha Seva, Abhishekams, Nijadarshan – 5:00 AM to 11:30 AM Alankara Seva – 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM Archanas, Naivedya and Prasad distribution – 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM Temple closes at 1:00 PM Darshan and Archanas starts from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM Bhakathoswa Swami Vaari Kalyanam – 5:00 PM Pradoshakala Puja – 6:00 PM Pavalimpu Seva – 7:30 PM Temple closes – 8:00 PM On Monday the temple has extended timing from 4:15 AM to 1

Know that the soul is of a pure and subtle nature, unaffected by external or internal object; it is invisible, but manifests itself as Purusha, Prakriti, Mahaeshwara and Time. Through the supreme soul (Paramatman) this universe is produced and annihilated; for it is the cause of Maya which delusively displays an endless variety of apparently exiting forms. But the supreme soul itself neither creates nor is created; it is neither earth nor sea; fire nor air; nor hearing, touch, sight, smell nor taste; it has neither feet, nor hands, nor other organs; it neither acts nor suffers, for it is neither Purusha nor Prakriti, nor Maya: for, as the mind is distinct from the thoughts which arise in it, so is the supreme soul distinct from the illusive appearances which it generates; and as the shadow in water is separate from its object, so is the soul of each created being from the illusion which it contemplates; because, when released from liability of transmigration, the liberated so

Pushan is a Vedic deity and was of great importance in the Vedic period. Pushan is described in the Vedas as the lord of all things, the guardian of all and the lord of the roads. It is also believed that He is the deity who shows light to the dead in their journey to the next world – this is mentioned in the Atharva Veda. The term Pushan means to prosper, grow and thrive. He was also given the title – Pashupa, protector of or animals. He is also known as Vimucho napat and Vimochana. It is mentioned in the Rig Veda that the deity protects cattle, horses, and other domestic animals. He blesses in easy weaving and smoothening the wool of sheep. He also helps in locating hidden and lost things. He guards the roads and is prayed for protection while traveling. In both Grihya and Shrauta sutras, prayers are offered to Pushan before any journey. Pushan married daughter of Surya, the sun god. He is also a messenger of Surya and helper of Savitrs. Pushan has a braided hair an

Yadagirigutta Sri Lakshminarasimha Swamy Temple administration has decided to offer all sevas online including accommodation. This decision was taken after irregularities were found in room booking and allotment of rooms. The online services will be available from January 1, 2015. New Indian Express reports The temple administration of Yadagirigutta has decided to offer all sevas through online from January 1. Executive officer of the temple N Geetha said that there were allegations against some temple staff about misusing the manual allotment of rooms which could be avoided by online booking.   Speaking to newsmen on Monday, she said sitting in her office she can get the status of room allotment and details of those who booked rooms with the new system. Soon online booking of rooms would be introduced while other services like prasadam sales, seva ticket sales would be introduced in a phased manner.

There has never been a time when you and I have not existed, nor there would be a time when we will cease to exist. As the same person inhabits the body through childhood, youth and old age, so too at the time of death he attains another body. The wise are not deluded by these changes. Contacts of the senses with objects produce cold and heat, pleasure and pain. They come and go and are impermanent. Bear with them. The person who these cannot afflict, chief among men, who is the same in pleasure and pain, wise, he is fit for immortality. That which really is cannot go out of existence, just as that which is non-existent cannot come into being. The end of this opposition of ‘is’ and ‘is not’ has been perceived by the seers of essential truths. Know that by which all this is pervaded to be indestructible. No one can bring about the destruction of the imperishable. (Gita Chapter 2 verse 12 to 17).

Trinidad and Tobago Hindu Calendar 2015 in pdf is presented by mypanchang. It contains all the important festivals, auspicious time etc as per Hindu Panchang 2015. The calendar is based on time in Trinidad and Tobago . It must be noted that the vrat, festival dates in  India  and  Trinidad and Tobago  might be different many times. So if you are residing in  Trinidad and Tobago  and are keen to follow the local time then the calendar will be of great help. Please note that the calendar is purnimat – that is a Hindu month in this calendar starts after Purnima. This calendar is followed in  North India . But the festival and vrat dates are applicable in all regions. Link  –  Trinidad and Tobago Hindu Calendar 2015 in pdf  (please note that the calendar is written for Guyana but is applicable in all places in West Indies)

Yama Dharmaraja is the Hindu God of Death and temples dedicated to Lord Yama are very rare. On such temple is the Sri Laxminarasimha Swamy Devasthanam at Dharmapuri in Karimnagar District in Telangana. Yama Dharmaraja is worshipped as a subsidiary deity at the famous Sri Lakshminarasimha Swamy Temple . The main murti in the temple is the Lakshminarasimha Swami incarnation of Bhagvan Vishnu. Devotees offer prayers here after taking a holy dip in the Godavari River . There is a belief that those offering prayers here will not suffer in hell. The most important puja offered in the temple is the Ayoosha sooktham for long life and good health. Another important ritual held here is the Ganda Deepam – devotees pour oil into the lamp to mitigate sufferings. The temple is located around 90 km north of Karimnagar.

The left hand of Venkateswara is in the Katya Vilambita posture. The left lower hand of Balaji is straight down and is bend at the wrist towards right. This is the Katya Vilambita Hasta Mudra. The hand rests just below the left hip. This is posture is found in the main murti worshipped in the Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple . Katya Vilambita Hasta Mudra… Katya means formally expressing praise or pay homage, Vilambita means hanging, Hasta means hand, and Mudra means posture… The most popular symbolic meaning associated with the Katya Vilambita hand posture is that Venkateswara protects and bless his true devotees. Another belief is that the hand assures the devotees that Balaji will let worldly problems go beyond a level. The right lower hand is in the famous Varada Mudra – boon giving posture.

Laddu is the most important Prasadam at the famous Kanaka Durga Temple in Andhra Pradesh. The weight of the Ladoo Prasadam will be soon reduced in order to avoid price hike. Currently a Laddu weighs 100 gms. It will be reduced to 80 gms. The price of a single Ladoo Prasadam is Rupees 10/- On an average 45,000 ladoos are sold daily. The number increases to 75,000 on Fridays and Sundays. During Navratri and Bhavani Deeksha Festivals more than 100,000 ladoos are sold at the temple. Related About Tirupati Laddu

Someday I will do this and that. The someday list is long. It is the magic day when everything will automatically or magically fall in place and all wishes will be fulfilled. But will this someday ever come? The truth is for many people the someday never comes because they never have the courage, money, time or energy to achieve all those things that they intent to achieve someday. So the someday is an imaginary place to dumb all their unfulfilled desires. It is true that not all items in the someday list can be fulfilled in a short period of time. But there are many that can be achieved if we make that extra effort. An honest view of the list will make us realize that many things can be achieved. The unattainable goals should not make us self critical. The unattainable goals should not be the reason for laziness and lack of motivation. The unattainable goals should not block all those goals that we can score today and tomorrow. If you want to visit a place …go do it now

Gandhamadana Mountain is frequently mentioned in the Hindu scriptures, especially the Puranas. It is the abode of Kubera and Yakshas. The mountain gets its name from the fragrant and healing herbs that grow on it. In the Mahabharata it is mentioned that on the slopes of Gandhamadana lives saints, siddhas and semi divine beings like Gandharvas, Apsaras, Kinnaras and Kim Purushas. One legend has is that Hanuman brought a piece of the mountain to Rameswaram. The palace of Kubera is located atop the mountain. A beautiful description of the mountain is found in the Mahabharata. Some scriptures give the suggestion that the mountain is located near Mount Kailash . Some scriptures especially the Puranas indicate the location to be in the present day Garhwal Himalayas. Some scriptures suggest that River Mandakini and Alaknanda flow on its slopes. The mountain is also found in the literary works of Kalidasa and Bana. In Kalidasa’s Vikramorvasiyam it is ment

Marriages were earlier held in Hindu Temples but there was a break in tradition when people opted for wedding halls or huge marriage halls. But once again many young couples are opting for marriages in ancient Hindu temples. The Hindu reports “This generation thinks differently,” says Jothi Mahalingam, manager at the Pallava-period Sri Parthasarathy Swamy temple, Triplicane. “People these days like to go back to their traditional roots.” Mahalingam, who has been with the temple for 32 years, adds that, people believe that married life will be prosperous if it begins in a temple, and in the last eight years he has seen a steady increase in the number of weddings conducted here. “To have a wedding at the temple, there are several rules and regulations,” says the man at the ticket counter at Sri Kapaleeshwar temple. “You will need to submit birth certificates, address proof, age proof, a tahsildar-attested document stating that it is the first marriage for both bride and groom, an

Meditation is a state of awakened awareness. When all modifications, all fluctuations of the mind are gone – now that is, the state of meditation. Having thus transcended the mind, we are one with our real Self. Mind functions at different levels and thoughts are propelled by mind due to habitual conditioning. We expect certain responses from people, situations and when they do not happen as desired, the mind gets disturbed. The agitations of the mind result in great turmoil and this turmoil, this unrest generates a myriad of thoughts. We pay great deal of attention to all sorts of self-centered activities, like the kind of clothes we wear, the fashion we follow, the car we drive, the membership of particular clubs, and so on. But what we fail to pay any attention to is something very important: How does our mind function? How can just a thought bring upon pain, anguish, jealousy or joy? We ensure that our house is clean but we are least bothered about our cluttered mind.

The post office located near the famous Sabarimala Temple gets hundreds of letters addressed to Lord Ayyappa. Ayyappa gets invitation cards for weddings and shop openings. The letters are mostly from Ayyappa devotees from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. IBN Live reports  It is a unique post office, and one of its main tasks is to deliver letters to God. Located near the famed Hindu temple at the Sabarimala hills, the post office may perhaps be the only one in the country which does not work round the year. It comes alive when the peak pilgrimage season of the Ayyappa shrine begins on the first day of the Malayalam month in November, and the period ends towards the middle of January.  The post office is also open for 10 days during the Vishu season. Functioning six days a week from 8 in the morning to 8 at night, the six employees, led by 23-year-old Sai G Prakash, have a lot to do.   A feature of the post office is the special pictorial cancellation stamp of the 18

Krittivasa is one among the numerous names of Shiva. Shiva is known as Krittivasa because he wears animal hides as clothes. Shiva usually wears a tiger skin. As per some scriptures he also wears elephant skin. Symbolically, the tiger skin suggests that Shiva is the controller of all powers in the world. A story is mentioned in the Shiva Purana, which explains why Shiva wears tiger skin. You can read it here . When Shiva wears elephant skin, he is also known as Gajantaka. You can read the story and symbolism of Gajantaka here . Another reason for Shiva using animal skins as clothes is that he is the lord of all creatures – Pashupati. He is the divine herdsman.

Ramlila was recently performed as opera. In this Ramayana Opera, Sri Ram narrated his emotions in Italian and Mata Sita conveyed her emotions through Odissi dance movements.  The Day After writes  Lord Rama sang his feelings when he fell in love with Sita at first sight and attired in traditional dhoti-kurta, he narrated his emotions in Italian. Rama's wife, Sita, however does not explain her emotions through words but through expressive eyes and graceful postures in her Odishi dance. "I find Ramlila an evergreen subject. We never get bored of this subject but we wanted to present it in different way. Ramayana has never been done in opera. So I thought why not? Since I love Ramayana; I love challenges; I love innovation, so I thought of blending it," Bijoylaxmi Hota, who scripted the opera said.  The fusion could be seen from the costumes and musicians' performances. The conductor of the opera was an Italian and his team of musicians included Italians, India

When the dry branch of a coconut palm drops to the ground, it leaves only a mark on the trunk indicating that once there was a branch at that place. In the like manner, he who has attained God keeps only an appearance of ego; there remains in him only a semblance of anger and lust. He becomes like a child. We color everything with our own selves. We have a brush—a thing comes and we do not like it and we brush a little then look at it. Selfishness prompts us to paint everything with ourselves. The body comes and goes and is limited. . . The body is not the Real Man; neither is the mind, for the mind waxes and wanes. It is the spirit beyond, which alone can live forever. The body and mind are continually changing, and are, in fact, only names of series of changeful phenomena, like rivers whose waters are in a constant state of flux, yet presenting the appearance of unbroken streams. . . the self-contained Purusha (Self) within is your real nature. The adjunct of mind is Hi

One of the traditional forest routes leading to Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple starts at Sathram. The route is Sathram – Pulmedu – Sannidanam. The traditional route is popularly known as Pulmedu route and is through thick forest. Thousands of Ayyappa pilgrims are undertaking the journey through this arduous path. It is around 7 km trek from Pulmedu to Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple . The New Indian Express reports  Though pilgrims are denied a proper path and potable water, the Pulmedu route is witnessing a heavy inflow of pilgrims since last week.  It is an arduous journey uphill for pilgrims from Sathram to Pulmedu due to the negative attitude of the Forest Department authorities in clearing the undergrowth on the trekking path. Though the Department assured of clearing the path between Sathram and Pulmedu at the review meeting on Sabarimala arrangements, hardly any follow-up action was taken for clearing the forest path for pilgrims who take the traditional route.  The Akhila

Hanuman chants the Garuda Mantra in the Yuddha Kanda of the Ramayana to save Sri Ram and Lakshman from the effect of Nagapasha arrow. Indrajit, the son of Ravana, was a master magician and prince of illusions. During the battle in the Ramayana he disappears into the sky and shoots Nagapasha arrow to tie down Sri Ram and Lakshman. Nagas or poisonous snakes form coils on the body Rama and Lakshman and they are made immobile. The poison takes effect on the brothers and both fall unconscious. The only way to save Sri Ram and Lakshman is by breaking the coils of poisonous snakes. This deed can only be performed by Garuda. Hanuman then sat down facing east and started chanting the Garuda mantra. Garuda is Lord Vishnu’s vehicle. He is also the avowed enemies of snakes. Hardly had Hanuman finished chanting the mantra, there was a huge wind in the sky. The huge wind causes waves to rise like mountains. It was the arrival of the divine bird Garuda. All the snakes had bound Sri

Each Hindu Temple is Tamil Nadu has a tree attached to it and it is known as Sthala Vriksham. The trees are so unique that some of them are considered as miracle tree. The Vanni tree at the Magudeshwara Temple at Kodumudi and the mango tree at the Ekambershwara Temple at Kancheepuram are nearly 3,500 years old. Now the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department in Tamil Nadu is planning to preserve these unique trees through cloning. The Hindu reports  Describing every Sthala Vriksham as a unique germplasm, a recent communication of the department urges the officials to take the help of experts from the Agriculture Department or the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) for the task.  The communication, issued by Additional Chief Secretary R. Kannan to HR&CE Commissioner P. Dhanapal, also asks the executive officers to ensure that enough clones are kept in carefully quarantined, separate places in nandavanam or flower garden. Even in privat

Shishupala was killed by Sri Krishna during the Rajasuya Yajna conducted by Yudhisthira at the Indraprastha. Shishupala was killed by Sri Krishna to give moksha to him. Story of his birth is found in the Puranas and Mahabharata. Shishupala was Jaya, one of the guards of Vaikunta, Vishnu’s abode. He along with Vijaya had once denied entry to Sanat Kumaras. The sages cursed them to be born on earth. Jaya and Vijaya then prayed to Vishnu for a solution to the curse. Vishnu told them that they can take seven births on earth as his ordinary devotees or take three births as his enemies. Jaya and Vijaya opted for three births as enemies as they wanted to return to Vaikunta at the earliest. They pleaded that they should meet their end in each birth at the hands of Vishnu. Thus Jaya was born as Shishupala when Bhagvan Vishnu appeared as Sri Krishna. He was killed by Sri Krishna during the Rajasuya Yajna conducted by Yudhisthira at the Indraprastha. Krishna had pro

A 17th-century murti of Bhagvan Sri Ram was stolen from the Raghunath Temple on the premises of the Kullu Palace in Sultanpur in Himachal Pradesh. This is the murti taken out first during the famous Kullu Dasara. Nearly 200 deities from the nearby villages arrive during Kullu Dasara rituals to pay respect to Bhagvan Sri Ram. The made of ashtadhatu (a combination of eight metals, including gold and silver) is about three inches long and weighs around 500 gm. Apart from the murti of Raghunath, murtis of Ganesha, Hanuman, Narasimha and Saligram Shila were stolen from the temple. You can read more about the importance of the deity here.

Malayalam Calendar 2015 in pdf for download is provided by the Deepika Newspaper and Kerala Kaumudi in Kerala. Mathurbhumi used to provide calendar for free but they have stopped it. Malayala Manorama too does not provide the 2015 calendar online for free. The 2015 Malayalam calendar contains important festivals in Kerala and uses Malayalam language to mention Nakshatram and festival details. You can visit the newspaper website and download it here -  Deepika Malayalam Calendar 2015  (they mail the calendar) Kerala Kaumudi Calendar 2015 in PDF format - You download it here at Kerala Kaumudi calendar 2015.  (direct download)

Goddess Mahasweta is a goddess worshipped in Hinduism. She is the deity who represents Mother Earth. The deity is widely worshipped in eastern parts of India . In some regions in eastern parts of India , Mahasweta is Goddess Saraswati. She is also referred as Sarbashukla Mahasweta. Mahasweta means brilliant white and symbolically refers to purity. In some regions, Goddess Durga is also referred as Mahashveta. It is also the name of a consort of Surya, the sun god.

Mahabharata Audio in Hindi in mp3 is provided by Ved Puran website. The files are divided into 9 files of nearly 500 mb each. The audio files of Mahabharat are in zip format. You will have to download and unzip the files. Please note that as the files are big, therefore it would be better you first download the small size file and check quality before downloading the entire 9 files. Link – Mahabharata Audio in Hindi in mp3

Gagangiri Maharaj was a great sage during the 20th century in Maharashtra . His Punyatithi or death anniversary is annually observed in Paush month as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in Maharashtra . The day is of great significance at the Gagangad Ashram at Gagangad near Kolhapur in Maharashtra . Gagangiri Maharaj Punyatithi 2024 date is February 7. Gagangiri Maharaj taught about the oneness of nature and living beings. Thousands of people arrive on the day at Gagangad Ashram and Khopoli Ashram. Special satsangs, prayers, and philanthropic activities are held on the day. Gagangiri Maharaj Punyatithi is observed on Paush Krishna Paksha Dwadashi Tithi or the twelfth day during the waxing phase of moon in Paush month as per traditional Marathi lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra .

Rathas or chariots are an indispensable part of temples in South India . Mention of Rathas is found in the Sangam literature. Suganthy Krishnamachari has written a wonderful and informative article on Temple Rathas in South India . Design, construction, religious importance, architecture and beauty of the chariots are detailed in the article. Excerpts from Temple on wheels in the Hindu  Instructions about the making of the ratha for Vishnu temples, given in the Purushottama Samhita, a Pancharatra agama, conjure up an image of an opulent ratha. It is emphasised that the chariot should have intricate sculpturing, and that the incarnations of Vishnu are to be depicted.   However, beyond all this, there must have been a social purpose behind introducing chariots in temple worship. A ratha is a moving temple, a description no other vahana can lay claim to. Like a temple, it has an adisthanam and Vedis. So a ratha makes it possible for the devotees to worship their favourit

Ekadasi Fasting is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is observed on the 11th day of waning and waxing phase of moon in a traditional Hindu calendar. This is one of the most popular Vrat observed in Hinduism. How to observe Ekadashi was narrated to Arjuna by Lord Krishna and is found in the Bhavisyottara Purana. When to start Ekadasi Fasting? Lord Krishna advices Arjuna to begin the Ekadasi fasting in the autumn season with Utpanna or Uttpatti Ekadasi occurring during the waning phase of the moon in November – December. Ekadashi Vrat Fasting Method Ekadasi is the name of the Goddess that arose from Lord Vishnu to defeat Demon Mura. Happy with her divine act, Lord Vishnu blessed her that anyone who observes Ekadasi fast will be freed of their sins and will attain Moksha. Some people only take a single meal on the Dasami day, the day before Ekadasi. Things needed for Ekadasi Puja and Prayer A picture or photo or idol of Lord Vishnu Fruits Tulsi leaves

Jiva Mahale was the bodyguard of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj . His Punyadin or Punyatithi or death anniversary is annually observed in Paush month. Jiva Mahale Punyadin 2024 date is February 4. A great soldier and unsung hero, Jiva Mahale saved Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj by killing Bijapur's general Afzal Khan. Jiva Mahale Punyadin is annually observed on Paush Krishna Paksha Navami Tithi or the ninth day during the waning phase of moon in Paush month as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in Maharashtra .

Gulwani Maharaj Punyatithi is annually observed in Paush month in Maharashtra . He was an ardent devotee of Lord Dattatreya. Gulavani Maharaj Punyatithi 2024 date is February 3. The day is of great importance at Pune and Kolhapur . Gulwani Maharaj spread the teaching of Lord Dattatreya. The day is of great significance at the ashram in Pune. Gulwani Maharaj Punyatithi is observed on Paush Krishna Paksha Ashtami Tithi or the eighth day during the waning phase of moon as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in Maharashtra .

Korthan Khandoba Yatra is annually organized in Paush month at Pimpalgaon Rotha near Parner in Ahmednagar District of Maharashtra. Thousands of people arrive to witness the jatra and festival. Korthan Khandoba Yatra 2024 date is January 27. The annual festival coincides with the Paush Purnima festival. Khandoba is Swayambhu in the temple. Mhalsa and Banai are also visible in the main murti worshipped in temple. Korthan Khandoba Yatra is annually observed on Paush Krishna Paksha Dwitiya Tithi or the second day during the waning phase of moon in Paush month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra .

Kelang Naga is a snake deity and is worshipped in the Chamba District of Himachal Pradesh especially in Bharmour, Bhattiyat, Churah regions. The most important temple dedicated to Kelang Naga is located near Kugti. The deity protects the people and other living beings of the region from epidemics and natural disasters. He is the guardian deity of the Kugti Valley . Legend has it that once there was a huge epidemic in the Kugti Valley and people prayed to Kelang Naga who was then residing in the Lahaul region of the Himachal Pradesh. To help the people the region, the deity left Lahaul and came riding on a horse towards Kugti Valley . Kelang Naga stopped at Dughi, around 3 km from Kugti, and then moved towards Darun and disappeared. People then excavated the place where the deity disappeared and found a three-headed murti in padmasana posture. A temple was built in honor of the deity near Kugti. The king of Chamba contributed towards the development of the temple. He

This Bhagavad Gita book translation in English along with Sanskrit text is provided by Gita Press. The complete Bhagavad Gita English pdf can be downloaded for free. There are no interpretation or detail meaning. It is just a simple translation of the Sanskrit text. Very helpful for beginners and daily readers of Gita. Link – Bhagavad Gita English pdf

Yadagirigutta Temple is dedicated to the Narasimha Avatar of Bhagvan Vishnu. The detail temple timings is given below. Please note that the opening and closing time in the temple will be extended during festivals and rituals. The time will be shortened when there is eclipse or grahan. Yadagirigutta Temple Timings Morning hours – 4:00 AM to 3:00 PM Suprabhatam – 4:00 AM to 4:30 AM Binde Theertam - 4:30 AM to 5:00 AM Bala Bogam – 5:00 AM to 5:30 AM Nijabhishekam – 5:30 AM to 6:30 AM Darshan without break from 7:15 AM to 11:30 AM Bogamu – 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM Darshan without break from – 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM Evening hours – 4:00 PM to 9:45 PM Special Darshan – 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM Darshan without break from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Aradhana – 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM Archana – 7:30 PM to 8:15 PM Darshan without break – 8:15 PM to 9:00 PM Naivaidya 9:00 PM to 9:30 PM Shayanotsavam 9:30 PM to 9:45 PM Temple closes 9:45 PM

Sadhus, or Sanyasis, are Hindu holy men who have shunned the comforts of home and society. They lead solitary life and appear in public during festivals like Kumbha Mela. German banker and photographer Mario Gerth had always cherished the dream of taking photos of these reclusive holy men. Daily Mail UK has published the photographs. It must be noted here that the real Sadhus are very hard to meet and they never interact with public. They rarely appear for participating in religious functions. These photographs might be of Sadhus who roams around India – this is a different class of Sadhus. You can view the photographs here at Daily Mail UK

The mind cannot be easily conquered. Minds that rise into waves at the approach of every little thing at the slightest provocation or danger, in what a state they must be! What to talk of greatness or spirituality, when these changes come over the mind? This unstable condition of the mind must be changed. We must ask ourselves how far we can be acted upon by the external world, and how far we can stand on our own feet, in spite of all the forces outside us. When we have succeeded in preventing all the forces in the world from throwing us off our balance, then alone we have attained to freedom, and not before. That is salvation. It is here and nowhere else; it is this moment. Analyze yourselves and you will find that every blow you have received, came to you because you prepared yourselves for it. You did half, and the external world did the other half: that is how the blow came. That will sober us down. At the same time, from this very analysis will come a note of hope, and t

Story of Banasur Vadh is found in the  Mahabharata  (Sabha Parva Chapter 38) and Srimad Bhagavad Purana (Chapter X 61 – 63). Banasur was the son of pious king Mahabali (who was pushed to netherworld by  Vamana Avatar of Vishnu ). He ruled from the city of  Sonitapura . The death of Banasur is an important story in the Puranas. To become invincible, Banasur performed severe penance dedicated to Shiva. After several years, Shiva appeared before his devotee and offered him two boons. Banasur asked for thousand hands to fight his enemies as his first boon and it was granted. As his second boon, he wanted Shiva to guard the city of  Sonitapura . This boon was also granted. With such huge powers in his disposal, the demon wanted to fight with Shiva. A smiling  Mahadev  evaded Banasur by saying that he would meet his worthy foe pretty soon. Banasur had a beautiful daughter named Usha. She once had a dream of a very handsome prince and fell deeply in love with him. Even

Punithavathi was an ardent devotee of Shiva and legend has it that she had been to Kailash where she had darshan of Shiva and returned back home to sing His glories. Her story begins with her husband bringing two mangoes home. Punithavathi was a devout wife and her husband had instructed her to keep the mangoes for lunch. But when her husband left, a guest came home and Punithavathi was forced to serve one of the mangoes keeping with tradition that guest is like god – Aditi Devo Bhava. When her husband returned for lunch she served the one mango left. It was so delicious that he asked for other. Punithavathi was in a dilemma as she did not know how her husband will react if told she had given one of the mangoes to a guest. So she prayed to Shiva to help her. He gave her a mango, which she served to her husband. But her husband soon realized that the mango was not the one he had got. So Punithavathi had to tell him the truth. Her husband could believe that Shiva wo

Women play pivotal role in all Hindu festivals and celebrations. Slowly but steadily numerous women are also performing Hindu pujas and rituals. Meera S. Sashital writes about the role of women in Hindu festivals and ceremonies in an article titled ‘Women, the pivot of festivals and ceremonies’ in the Free Press Journal.  The Free Press Journal   Women and festivals have always entwined together and are inseparable. As Hindu festivals are mostly religious, women automatically merge with the religious ceremonies during festivals. They take prominent role in them and there is seldom any festival celebrated without women having taken main part in it.    From early times Indian women have enjoyed an honourable place in society and religious functions. The position of women in the Vedic Age was very high. Though in later literature and ages woman is termed ‘wicked’ and temptress’, the general Hindu view of woman has been an exalted one. She was assigned full responsibilities and free

There is an interesting story in the Puranas that narrate how Anasuya had the opportunity to become the mother of Trimurtis – Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. This is the story of the birth of Dattatreya.  Anasuya was the daughter of Sage Kardama and his wife Devahuti. She was married to the famous Sage Atri. Anasuya was extremely pious and performed intense austerities. Anasuya means one who is free from jealousy and envy. She was also a devoted wife who always followed Dharma. Legend has it that Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva decided to take a test of Anasuya. They appeared at her Ashram in the form of saints at her ashram. As Sage Atri was not in the ashram, she attended to their needs. The saints told her that they were performing a different kind of austerity and wanted someone who would serve them food naked. Anasuya could not refuse food to the saints. So she agreed to serve food naked. So powerful was the Tapa Shakti of Anasuya that her purity turned the three saints into

Money is like water we need it to survive in this world. But we should also be careful not to drown in water. Don’t drown in money but make lot of it. Those who say money won’t buy peace and happiness forgets to mention that without money too there will be no peace and happiness. What we need is a balanced approach when it comes to money – don’t be greedy and do not have excessive desires. Always make money by following dharma (means through integrity and honesty). Whatever we earn through dharmic means will always lead to prosperity. Only invest what we have earned. Never borrow money to make money. Wealth should be made through hard work. If we are to live in this world we have to pay a whole lot of bills. From hospital to cemetery bills follow us. And we need money to pay all these bills. We should only keep one golden rule while making money – never be greedy. Be happy and satisfied with what we get from our hard work. Use only a part of the money to fulfill

Panchadeva puja is the worship of five gods in Hinduism. The five deities worshipped are Ganesha, Vishnu, Shiva, Goddess Durga, and Surya. The worship is also referred as Panchayatana puja. In ancient times, this kind of puja was very popular only in some regions and also among some sects especially the Smarta sect. But today majority of the Hindus knowingly or unknowingly perform Panchadeva Puja. Hindus begin by offering prayers to Ganesha. Morning prayers are dedicated to Surya – the rising sun – which is also referred as the Pratyaksha Brahman or visible God. Then puja is offered to Vishnu, Shiva and Mother Goddess. It must be noted here that in earlier times people who performed the Panchadeva Puja were those who were not aligned with Vaishnava or Shaiva sect.

Dhunda Maharaj Deglurkar was a saint and exponent of Marathi Kirtan dedicated to Lord Vitthal of Pandharpur in Maharashtra . His Punyatithi or death anniversary is annually observed in Paush Month. Dhunda Maharaj Deglurkar Punyatithi 2024 date is January 31. Dhunda Maharaj Deglurkar was a great singer of the Varkari Kirtan. He spread the glory of Lord Vitthal by sing the poems of Sant Nivruttinath, Sant Dnyaneshwar, Sopandev, Muktabai, Sant Eknath, Sant Namdev, and Tukaram Maharaj. Special programs are organized on the day at Pandharpur. Dhunda Maharaj Deglurkar Punyatithi is annually held on Paush Krishna Paksha Panchami tithi or the fifth day during the waning phase of moon as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra .

The annual Janani Devi Yatra at Devsare is held in Paush month. The festival or Jatra is dedicated to Goddess Janani Devi and attracts scores of devotees. Janani Devi Yatra 2024 date is February 1. Devsare is located near Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra . The fair and festival in honor of Goddess Janani Devi is famous for the annual jatra in which the murti of Goddess is taken out on the day. Janani Devi Yatra is annually held on Paush Krishna Paksha Sashti tithi or the sixth day during the waning phase of moon as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra . 

Balchandra Maharaj was a great saint in the Bhakti tradition in Maharashtra . His Jayanti or birth anniversary is annually observed in Paush Month. Bhalchandra Maharaj Jayanti 2024 date is February 1. The day is of great significance at Kankavli in Sindhudurg District in Maharashtra . The day is of importance at the Bhalchandra Maharaj Ashram or Math at Kankavali. Special prayer meeting and philanthropic activities are organized on the day. The palki of the great saint is taken around on the day. Bhalchandra Maharaj Jayanti is annually held on Paush Krishna Paksha Sashti tithi or the sixth day during the waning phase of moon as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra .

The annual Katradevi Yatra at Sagve is held in Paush month. The festival or Jatra is dedicated to Goddess Katra Devi attracts scores of devotees. Katradevi Yatra 2024 date is February 2. Sagve village is located near Rajapur in Ratnagiri District in Maharashtra . Sagwe is located around 30 km west of Rajapur. The fair and festival in honor of Goddess Katra Devi is unique to the region. The murti of Goddess is taken out on the day. Goddess Katra Devi is the kuldevi or family deity of many old families in the region. The temple is decorated with lamps and lights for the occasion. A fair is organized during the period. Katradevi Yatra is annually held on Paush Krishna paksha Saptami tithi or the seventh day during the waning phase of moon as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra . 

The annual Yellamma Devi Yatra at Manerajuri is held in Paush month. The festival dedicated to Goddess Yellamma Devi attracts more 10,000 devotees. Yellamma Devi Yatra 2024 date is February 2. Manerajuri is located on Sangli – Atpadi Road in Maharashtra . The temple is located around 12 km from Tasgaon. The annual yatra is also noted for a fair. The ritual involves journey to the shrine and palki yatra. Yellamma Devi Yatra is annually held on Paush Krishna paksha Saptami tithi or the seventh day during the waning phase of moon as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra . 

Book titled ‘Duryodhana’ is written by V Raghunathan and is published by Harper Collins India . The book attempts look at the incidents in the Mahabharata from the perspective of Duryodhana – the leader of the Kauravas and the main villain in the original. The book is an eclectic mix of imagination and the real Mahabharata. The author uses his freedom to make us believe that there is a different angle to some of the important incidents in the Mahabharata. The Hindu reports  To the question regarding his choice of Duryodhana as a central character, Raghunathan said unlike Karna, Bhima, Yudhishtir and Draupadi, Duryodhana’s point of view has hardly been considered.  “History, they say, is written by victors. I am usually on the side of the underdog. Duryodhana has been painted a darker shade of grey. Karna, for example, is a tragic hero, but Duryodhana is seen only as a villain.”  “Twenty five per cent of the book is a figment of my imagination, I wondered, why not plant d

Renuka Yatra at Saundatti in Belgaum in Karnataka is held at the famous Renuka Devi Temple or Yellamma Devi Temple . The Jatara or temple festival is annually held in Margashirsh month and Magh month. Yellamma Jatara 2023 date is December 26. The annual jatara attracts thousands of devotees to the temple. The jatara is known as Neeramanavi Yellamma Jatara. The puja and rituals on the day are unique and are annually held only on this day. Saundatti is located around 83 km from Belgaum . Renuka Yatra is annually observed on Margashirsha Purnima or full moon day in Margashirsh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Karnataka. Yellamma Jatara is held on various occasions – on Purnima days in other months. But the most important festival is the one held in Margashirsh month (November – December).

Sudarshana Chakra and numerous other items and people associated with Vishnu had grown in pride in the Dwapara Yuga. To curb the unwanted pride of his attendants, Krishna took the help of Hanuman. The story of Hanuman Swallowing Sudarshana Chakra is part of this attempt. Hanuman was in deep meditation in Himalayas and was not aware that Treta Yuga had ended and Dwapara Yuga had begun. He was also not aware of the avatar of Sri Krishna. Hanuman constantly meditated on Sri Ram. So once, Sri Krishna asked Garuda to take his message to Hanuman. Krishna had asked to carry the message that ‘Sri Rama is Calling You.’ On receiving the message, Hanuman immediately flew in full speed to Dwarka. Sri Krishna had deputed Sudarshana Chakra to guard the main gate as he was expecting an important guest. Sudarshana Chakra prided in his strength and thought he was invincible. Hanuman soon reached Dwarka but was stopped by Sudarshana Chakra. Hanuman did not want to waste time

Bhagwan Baba is a great saint of the Vanjari Community in Maharashtra . His Punyatithi or death anniversary is annually observed in Paush month. Bhagwan Baba Punyatithi 2024 date is January 26. The day is of great significance at Bhagwangad in Maharashtra. The samadhi sthal or the final resting place of Vaikunth Vasi Hari Bhakt Parayan Bhagwan Baba is located at Bhagwangad. Thousands of devotees arrive here on the day to pay their respects. Bhagwan Baba Punyatithi is annually observed on Paush Krishna Paksha Pratipada Tithi or the first day during the waning phase of moon in Paush month as per traditional lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra . Bhagwangad is located near Pathardi in Ahmednagar District, Maharashtra.

Jyotisar is located near Kurukshetra in Haryana and it is believed that the Bhagavad Gita was narrated by Sri Krishna to Arjuna here. A Vat Vriksha, a banyan tree, believed to be more than 8000 years is worshipped here. The tree was not properly maintained. Now efforts are being made to give a new lease of life to the tree.  Hindustan Times reports  A team of experts from Dehradun-based Forest Research Institute (FRI) will visit Jyotisar in a fortnight to launch restoration programme for the tree.  Experts have clarified that the preliminary investigations suggested that the ancient tree was not dying but suffocating due to unscientific methods being adopted for beautification.    They blame emphasis on superficial beautification and poor landscape planning for the deteriorating health of the holy banyan. The marble platform around the tree is doing the most harm.    FRI scientists said marble platform had hampered water-absorption capacity of the tree. Besides, prop roots,

Bana is one of the sons of Mahabali – the king who was pushed to the netherworld by the Vamana Avatar of Vishnu. The story of Bana is mentioned in the Harivamsa and the Bhagavad Purana. Legend has it that Bana was a very powerful ruler. Once he left his kingdom and went to the Himalayas and performed intense austerities to please Shiva. The tapas performed by Bana was very severe and this forced Shiva to appear before him. Bana asked for two boons from Shiva – that he be made son of Goddess Parvati and second that he should have 1000 hands to destroy his enemies. The boons were granted and Bana returned to his kingdom. Bana had a daughter named Usha and she fell in love with Aniruddha, grandson of Sri Krishna. As Bana did not like the alliance, he captured Aniruddha and imprisoned him. For this act, Bana had to face the wrath of Sri Krishna and was defeated in the battle. As per some accounts, Sri Krishna killed Bana. But some versions state that Bana was saved

The annual festival at Shantadurga Temple at Kavlem in Goa is observed in Magh month. It is the Panchami day when the Yatra is held. In 2024, Shantadurga Temple Festival is from February 10 to February 18. The most important date is on February 14, the Maha Panchami day. The festival is also known as Kavale Shantadurga Jatra Utsav. The annual festival attracts thousands of devotees. The murti of the Goddess is taken around the temple in decorated chariots on the main day. The temple is decorated with lights and special pujas and rituals are held on all eight days of the festival. The most important day during the festival is the fifth day known as Maha Panchami. Shantadurga Temple Festival is observed from Magh Shukla Paksha Pratipada Tithi to Shukla Paksha Ashtami Tithi – from the first day of the waxing phase of moon in Magh month to the eighth day of the waxing phase of moon.

Swachh Mandir Abhiyaan is a campaign initiated by Hindu Temples in Bengaluru with aim to keep the temple premises clean. As part of the campaign, plastic bags are banned in temples. Those spitting and littering on the temple premises are fined. Times of India reports Banashankari temple is one of many in Bengaluru city to have adopted several steps under Swachh Mandir Abhiyaan to ensure that temples and their surroundings are clean, Pallavi Akurathi, commissioner, Muzrai department, told TOI. These temples come under the department of religious and charitable endowments or Muzrai.  "Alternatives like paper and cloth bags are being encouraged as there's a ban on plastic. We're distributing them for free at some temples. Boards have been installed to educate visitors on cleanliness; they tell visitors where dustbins are located. Those who don't dump waste at the designated place will be fined," she added. A waste audit of 40 temples in the city found they