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Showing posts from January, 2014


The Five Arrows of Kamadeva

In Hinduism, Kamdev is the god of love. He appeared from the mind of Brahma carrying a bow made of sugarcane and five flowery arrows. As per Hindu scriptures, the five flowery arrows are made of white lotus, red flower, mango blossom, jasmine and blue water lily. White lotus or Aravinda creates pleasing and desiring feeling (Harshana). Red Flower (Ashoka) creates attraction or temptation (rochanam) Mango blossom or Amra creates infatuation or delusion (Mohanam) Jasmine or Nava Mallika creates weakness or love sickness (Shoshanam) Blue water lily or nilotpala creates death (maranam)

Uthrittathi Nakshatram Matching Stars for Marriage – Uthrittathi Nakshatra Marriage Compatibility

Uthrittathi Nakshatram matching stars for marriage in details is given below. Uthrittathi is the 26th birth star among the 27 Nakshatra in Hindu horoscope and astrology. Uthrittathi marriage compatibility or the very best matching stars are Atham, Chothi, Vishakam (1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter), Pooradam, Uthiradam, Thiruonam and Pooruruttathi. Other good matching stars with Uthrittathi are Rohini, Thiruvathira, Pooyam Uthiram (2nd, 3rd and 4th quarter), Chithira, Vishakam (4th quarter), Anizham, Triketta, Moolam, Avittam, Chathayam, Uthrittathi and Revathi. Bharani, Makayiram, Punirtham, Ayiliyam, Makam, Pooram and Uthiram (1st quarter) are okay – means not bad. Stars that do not match with Uthrittathi are Ashwathy and Kartika.

Story Of The Birth Of Marthanda Form Of Surya, The Sun God

Marthanda is a manifestation of Surya, the sun god in Hinduism. Please note that quite often Marthanda is also equated with sun (is another name of Surya). Legend has it that Aditi, the wife of Sage Kashyapa, was serving food to her husband. Suddenly a guest came. Aditi could only attend the guest after she had served her husband. Aditi Devo Bhava – Guest is considered as God in Hindu culture. The delay in attending to him angered the guest. The guest, in a fit of anger, cursed Aditi that she would abort her fetus. But Sage Kashyapa saved the fetus. The child that was born was Martanda, the one resurrected from the aborted fetus.

Hindu Temple to Be Demolished Lifted to New Site near Vellore in Tamil Nadu

Sree Aadhi Bethaballi Gangai Amman temple is located at Ayyanur village on the Ambur–Vaniyambadi Road near Vellore in Tamil Nadu. The temple was to be demolished due to highway expansion work. But devotees of the area other ideas and they decided to lift the temple to a new site. The temple is located around 230 km from Chennai. Deccan Chronicle Reports     “We were really upset and shared the news with the devotees. They suggested that we decide by lot on whether we should allow the demolition or retain the structure and move to a new location.  The chit that was drawn, which we believe is the divine intervention, suggested that the shrine be kept intact and moved to a new destination,” said Moorthy.  After it was agreed upon to move the shrine, the temple trust management purchased a private plot measuring 80 by 40 feet that was located 40 feet behind the present location for Rs 7 lakhs and engaged engineers from TDBD Private Limited, a Haryana-based structure relocatio

Download Ramcharitamanas in pdf for Free – the Ramayana Book of Tulsidas in English with Hindi texts

Ramacharitamanas of Goswami Tulsidas is one of the most popular adaptations of Ramayana. Gita Press, which promotes and spreads the principles of Sanatana Dharma, the Hindu religion among the general public by publishing Gita, Ramayana, Upanishads, Puranas and discourses, is now providing an opportunity to download the entire Ramcharitamanas in pdf for free. You can download the entire book in pdf format. The chapters are in pdf format and are divided into small files. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader installed to read the file. You can download the Ramcharitamanas for Free from this link – Ramcharitamanas – the Ramayana of Tulsidas.

Shiva at Baidyanath Dham Helps in Release of Innocent Prisoners

There is a belief in Deograh Jail in Jharkhand that prisoners who help in making the flower crown for Shivling at Baba Baidyanath Dham will be acquitted and released soon. Deograh Jail is located around one km from the famous Baba Baidyanath Dham and it is the prisoners here that prepare the golden crown that is worn on the main Shivling during the Shravan month (July – August). Times of India reports  In fact, the jail has been supplying the 2ft flower crown, trident, flag, 'damru' and special garlands for the late-evening 'shringar', or decoration, of the deity since the colonial days. The grapevine has it, according to Deoghar SP Subodh Kumar, that there was a king who did not have issues. He prayed to Lord Shiva to bless him with a son and, as part of a thanksgiving exercise, he would make arrangements for the preparation of His 'shringar' materials by the inmates of the prison during the month of Shrawan every year.  However, priest Gulab Bhagat ha

How Vishnu Got Kaumodaki Mace? - Story of the Gada of Vishnu

Kaumodaki is the Gada (mace or club) of Bhagwan Shri Hari Vishnu. Krishna , the Purna Avatar of Vishnu, received the Kaumodaki Mace from Agni. Legend has it that Agni gave Vishnu the mace for helping in performing the Khandava Dahanam or the burning of the Khandava forest. The story how Vishnu got Kaumodaki mace is found in the Adi Parva of the Mahabharata. Agni had got the Kaumodaki Mace from Varuna, the sea god.  Once there was a king named Shwetaki. He conducted several types of yajnas for several years and this filled the kingdom with smoke. The yajna place was continuously under smoke and the Rishis found it difficult to even breathe. They all left the place. This did not deter Shwetaki who decided to conduct another yajna for 12 years but none of the Rishis were ready to take part in it. Shvetaki then prayed to Shiva for a solution and He gave him Durvaasas as the priest for the yajna. Durvaasas continued the yajna for 12 years pouring unlimited material

Goddess Bageshwari Worship on Tuesdays in Shravan Month

Goddess Bageshwari is a manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti. Tuesdays in the Shravan Month is dedicated to the Goddess. Mangalvar or Tuesdays in the Shravan Month (July – August) is generally dedicated to worship of Mother Goddess. In 2024, Shravan month in North India is from July 22 to August 19. The month is also famous for the Mangala Gauri Puja on Tuesdays. The most important puja and rituals are held at the Bageshwari Temple at Gaya in Bihar. Devotees offer prayers for a good harvest, peace and prosperity. A mela is held during the period in the vicinity of the Bageshwari Temple at Gaya and it attracts thousands of people.

About Ramayana in Laos

In Ramayana in Laos , Sri Ram is Phralam; Nang Sida is Mata Sita; Lakshman is Phralak; Hanuman is Houliman and Ravana is Hapkhanasouane. Alan Potkin, scholar from the Northern Illinois University, US, is digitally replicating lost Ramayana murals from Laos . Business Standard reports  As per Ramayana in Laos , Sri Ram was born in the Mekong valley. According to Sachchidanand Sahai, national professor (epigraphy), Archaeological Survey of India, it draws cultural parallels between the Ganges and Mekong . As per the Laotian version, Ravana was born in Cambodia and the great war was fought on the banks of Mekong . This is a classic example of how the Khmer, Laotian and Thai civilizations made the Ramayana their own.  Potkin’s project seeks to keep the vibrant renditions of this grand epic intact, ensuring the flow of knowledge from generation to generation. “We should learn a lesson from this project. In India , we keep searching for the ancient. But we forget that even  the

Aranya Chandi – About Goddess Aranya Chandi

Aranya Chandi is a powerful manifestation of Goddess Shakti. She is mainly worshipped in Bengal and eastern parts of India . Information about Aranyachandi is found in songs collectively found in the Chandimangala. Goddess Aranya Chandi is the fearless one and is the savior of the oppressed. She resides in the forest. The popular belief is that she is the protector of those that venture into the forest. She protects them from the wild animals and demons. 

Udyapan for Pradosh Vrat – How to do Udyapan of Pradosh Vrat or Fasting? - Udyapan Vidhi For Fasting Dedicated to Shiva

Udyapan is the ritualistic ending of a vrat. Udyapan of Pradosh Vrat is observed after the completion of the Pradosh fasting. Here is a brief description of Udyapan Vidhi for Pradosh Vrat. After the completion of the fast, on the Udyapan day prayers are offered to a Kalash filled with water. This water is then taken to a sacred spot or Shiva temple and poured on the Shivling. Prayer at home involves chanting of ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ as much times as you can 51 or 108 or 1008 times. You can also offer Bilva leaves to a Shivling along with water. As Prasad you can prepare a sweet or offer fruits. This after the puja can be shared with family members, friends, relatives and neighbors. To complete the Udyapan of Pradosh Vrat, you should perform Annadanam or food donation to poor children and old people. This can be performed on the day of Udyapan or on a later date.

Somayaga 2014 in Kerala – Somayagam at Kozhikode in Kerala From February 13, 2014

Somayagam is an important Vedic ritual and it will be conducted in 2014 by the Kasyapa Veda Research Foundation at Kozhikode in Kerala. Somayaga will be held from February 13 to February 19, 2014. Somayagam is a vedic ritual which is more than 6000 years old and the sole purpose of the yajna is the welfare of Mother Earth and all living beings. Acharya M R Rajesh, founder of Kasyapa Veda Research Foundation, talks about the yajna in The New Indian Express So, what in general is the purpose of conducting a Somayagam? ‘’Somayagam is one of the most important constituents of the spiritual practices of the Vedas.  The yagam is a demonstration of the fundamental laws of the universe. The yagasala is conceived to be the body of both the human being and the universe. It has been taught and prescribed in the Vedic texts by Vedic scholars that the yagasala has several parts representing the different parts of the body. The yagam is an offering for the entire good of this body or r

Bhim Chandi Devi Jayanti

Bhim Chandi Devi is a fierce manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti. Bhim Chandi Devi Jayanti is believed to be the day when Goddess appeared on earth. Bhim Chandi Devi Jayanti 2024 date is August 21. It is observed on the second day of the Krishna Paksha of Bhadrapad month (August – September) as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in  North India . Bhimchandi is of volatile temperament and she unleashes trouble and misfortune in the lives of those who follow Adharma. She also blesses her devout and Dharmic devotees with peace and prosperity. The most important offering to the Goddess is Vermilion. Red flowers, sweets and water are also offered to the Goddess. 

Pooruruttathi Nakshatra Matching Stars for Marriage – Pooruruttathi Nakshatra Marriage Compatibility

Pooruruttathi Nakshatram matching stars for marriage in details is given below. Pooruruttathiis the 25th birth star among the 27 Nakshatra in Hindu horoscope and astrology. Pooruruttathi marriage compatibility or the very best matching stars are Vishakam, Moolam and Uthiradam. Other good matching stars with Pooruruttathi are Ashwthy, Punirtham (1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter), Uthiram (2nd, 3rd and 4th quarter), Atham, Chithira, Chothi, Anizham, Pooradam, Thiruonam, Avittam, Chathyam and Pooruruttathi (1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter). Bharani, Kartika, Rohini, Makayiram, Thiruvathira, Punirtham (4th quarter), Pooyam, Magham, Pooram, Uthiram (1st quarter), Triketta, Pooruruttathi (4th quarter) and Uthrittathi are okay – means not bad. Stars that do not match with Pooruruttathi are Ayiliyam and Revathi.

Chathayam Nakshatram Matching Stars for Marriage – Chatayam Nakshatra Marriage Compatibility

Chathayam Nakshatra matching stars for marriage in details is given below. Chatayam is the 24th birth star among the 27 Nakshatra in Hindu horoscope and astrology. Chathayam marriage compatibility or the very best matching stars are Uthiram (2nd, 3rd and 4th quarter), Chithira, Chothi, Vishakam, Triketta, Moolam, Pooradam, Uthiradam, Thiruonam and Avittam. Other good matching stars with Chathayam are Kartika, Thiruvathira, Ayiliyam, Pooram, Uthiram (1st quarter), Atham, Chathayam, Pooruruttathi (1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter) and Revathi. Ashwathy, Bharani, Rohini, Makayiram, Punirtham (1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter), Anizham, Magham and Pooruruttathi (4th quarter), are okay – means not bad. Stars that do not match with Chathayam are Punirtham (4th quarter), Pooyam and Uthrittathi.

Tirupati Balaji Currency Coin – Palau Pacific Island to Issue Limited Edition Venkateswara Coin

A limited collectors' edition Tirupati Balaji Coin will be released by  Palau – an island nation in the Pacific Ocean . The Venkateswara Coin will be released during the auspicious occasion of Chaitra Purnima on April 15, 2014. You can place an order for the coin by paying 11,111 rupees at Kolkata-based firm AG IMPEX. The face value of these commemorative currency coins is USD 5 and USD 20. The silver coins are studded with Swarovski crystals and a small diamond and are minted in German Mint. The same firm had earlier released limited edition Ganesha coin of  Ivory Coast  – Country in  West Africa . Lord Venkateswara with Real Diamond - 3 Oz is priced at 25,551 /- Face Value is USD 5; Weight is 93.300 GRAMS Lord Venkateswara with Real Diamond - 1 Oz is priced at 11,111 /- Face Value is USD 20; Weight is 31.300 GRAMS The booking for the coin is open from January 22, 2014. You can find more details about the coin here at the website of AG IMPEX.

Moodevi – Story Of The Goddess Of Misfortune And Bad Luck

Moodevi is the Goddess of misfortune and bad luck in Hinduism. The term Moodevi is widely used in South India , especially in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. She is opposite of Goddess Lakshmi. Her story is mentioned in Hindu Puranas and folklores. Moodevi is believed to have appeared during the Churning of Ocean or Samudra Manthan by Devas and Asuras to get Amrti or elixir. She appeared after the appearance of Goddess Lakshmi. Moodevi went to Bhagvan Srihari Vishnu and asked him an abode to reside. Bhagvan Vishnu asked her to reside in all those places that are kept dirty and where they do not sprinkle cow dung and draw kolam or rangoli. Thus Moodevi resides in all those places that are unclean.

World’s Tallest Hanuman Murti (Statue – Idol) is Under Construction at Madapam near Narasannapeta in Srikakulam District in Andhra Pradesh

World’s Tallest Hanuman Murti at Madapam near Narasannapeta in Srikakulam District in Andhra Pradesh is the result of the tireless effort put by Jayi Ramanamurty, a hanuman devotee. When completed in May 2015, it will be the tallest Hanuman Murti (Statue – Idol) in the world. The height of the Hanuman Murti is 176 feet height and is being constructed on the banks of the Vamasadhara River . Construction began in 2005 and it will be completed in May 2015. The Hindu reports  A devotee’s dream has become a reality within 8 years with the construction of India ’s tallest Hanuman statue at Madapam, Narasannapeta mandal of Srikakulam district. The devotee Jayi Ramanamurty, a common man, dreamt in 2005 that the tallest statue for Lord Anjayaneya will be constructed on the banks of Vamasadhara river. His dream was not taken seriously initially but slowly devotees came forward with donations to make the project a reality. In the beginning, a devotee M.S.N. Raju of Cheepurupalli

Vinadhara Dakshinamurti – About the Manifestation of Vinadhara Dakshinamurti form of Shiva

Shiva Vinadhara Dakshinamurti is one of four manifestation of Dakshinamurti. Shiva as Dakshinamurti is the supreme teacher of ultimate awareness, understanding, and knowledge. Veenadhara means one carries the musical instrument Veena. As Vinadhara Dakshinamurti, Shiva expounds on the timeless principles of vocal and instrumental music, which is known to lead to liberation or moksha. In Hindu tradition, music is compared to yogic practice and both involve the control of breath, mental absorption, and the ultimate release from all obsessions of the mind. Shiva as Vinadhara Dakshinamurti is depicted as having four hands. The lower left hand holds the neck of the Veena and the lower right hand is plucking the strings of Veena. The upper left hand sometimes hold a axe or trident. The upper right hand holds noose or skull. "Dakshinamurti" literally means "one who faces south." In Hinduism, South is the direction associated with change, transformation,

Avittam Nakshatram Matching Stars for Marriage – Avittam Nakshatra Marriage Compatibility

Avittam Nakshatram matching stars for marriage in details is given below. Avittam is the 23rd birth star among the 27 Nakshatra in Hindu horoscope and astrology. Avittam marriage compatibility or the very best matching stars are Magham, Uthiram (2nd, 3rd and 4th quarter), Chothi, Vishakam (1st, 2nd, 3rd quarter), Moolam, Uthiradam and Thiruonam. Other good matching stars with Avittam are Kartika, Uthiram (1st Quarter) Atham, Chithira, Vishakam (4th quarter), Anizham, Triketta, Pooradam, Avittam and Chathayam. Ashwathy, Bharani, Rohini, Thiruvathira, Pooyam, Ayiliyam, Pooram, Pooruruttathi and Uthrittathi are okay – means not bad. Stars that do not match with Avittam are Makayiram, Punirtham and Revathi.

Chaturdashi on Tuesday – Fourteenth Day of Fortnight on Tuesday – Angarak Chaturdashi

When Chaturdashi Tithi, or the fourteenth day, during the fortnight falls on Tuesday it is known as Angarak Chaturdashi. The day is highly meritorious for performing Yama Tarpanam and other rituals dedicated to the departed souls.  Angarak Yog is associated with fiery Mangal. Chaturdashi on Tuesday is even highly meritorious if it happens during the Krishna Paksha or the waning phase of moon.

Tirumantiram in English – Download English Translation of Thirumantiram in English in pdf format

Tirumantiram is considered the final authority on subtle matters of philosophy and theology in Shaiva Siddhanta. The original text is in Tamil. Now  you can download the Download English Translation of Tirumantiram in English in pdf format. The book is provided for free by Himalayan Academy . Examples from the book Love Profound Howe'er well the two garlics and musk boil and mix, Yet will musk's fragrance stand overtopping all, So may all space mix and hold the God as One, Yet, upwelling, pours forth Isan's love profound. Illusions Vanish The Birthless is He, the Divine Mad, of Compassion vast, The Deathless is He, the Boundless One, Granter of Joys all, To Him kneel, and, kneeling, shall find Naught becomes Maya, the bond immemorial. Link – Download English Translation of Tirumantiram in English in pdf format

Telugu Chaitra Month 2024 – Chaitra Masa in Traditional Calendar in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh in 2024

Chaitra Month, or Chaitra Masa, is the first month in a traditional Telugu calendar followed in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Chaitra Masa 2024 in Telugu calendar is from April 9 to May 8. Krodhi Samvatsara and Shak Year 1946 begins on the first day of the Chaitra month which is celebrated as Telugu New Year (Ugadi). Some of the important festivals and auspicious days include Ugadi, Chaitra Navratri, Soubhagya Gauri Vratam and Ram Navami. Sankatahara Chavithi monthly fasting dedicated to Lord Ganesh is on April 27, 2024 – Moonrise is at 10:10 PM – Indian standard time. Chaitra Masa 2024 Shukla and Krishna Paksha Chaitra Masa 2024 Shukla Paksha or bright phase of moon in Telugu Calendar is from April 9 to April 23. Chaitra Masa 2024 Krishna Paksha or dark phase of moon in Telugu Calendar is from April 24 to May 8. Telugu Chaitra month Ekadasi dates are: Kamada Ekadasi – April 19 Varuthini Ekadasi – May 4 Shiva Pradosham Fasting Dates in Telugu Chaitra

Teachings Of Srimad Bhagavatam - Lessons From Srimad Bhagavatam

This is a collection of teachings of Srimad Bhagavatam with important lessons imparted by Sri Krishna and various saints. What is attained in the Satya Yuga by one contemplating on Bhagvan Srihari Vishnu, in Treta by one who propitiates Him through sacrifice and in Dwapara through worship, is attained in the Kali age (merely) by chanting the Name and singing the Praises of Srihari. Oh even the impious woman, Putana who suckled Baby Sri Krishna at the breast, which was daubed with a most deadly poison, intent on killing Him, got from Him (in return) the destiny appropriate to a foster mother. Is there anyone so Merciful Whom we should resort to for protection other than Him? For whatever honour the devotee offers to the Almighty Lord, it rebounds upon himself, as the decoration of one’s face is reflected on a mirror. The only way for man to be rid of fear is to worship the lotus feet of the Lord ever and always. Fear and horrible miseries follow man due to his identifi

Thiruonam Nakshatram Matching Stars for Marriage – Thiruonam Nakshatra Marriage Compatibility

Thiruonam Nakshatram matching stars for marriage in details is given below. Thiruonam is the 22nd birth star among the 27 Nakshatra in Hindu horoscope and astrology. Thiruonam marriage compatibility or the very best matching stars are Atham and Vishakam (1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter). Other good matching stars with Thiruonam are Rohini, Punirtham, Pooram, Uthiram, Chithira, Chothi, Vishakam (4th quarter), Moolam, Pooradam, Uthiradam, Thiruonam and Pooruruttathi Ashwathy, Bharani, Karthika, Makayiram, Pooyam, Ayiliyam, Anizham, Triketta, Avittam, Chathayam, Uthrittathi and Revathi are okay – means not bad. Stars that do not match with Thiruonam are Thiruvathirai and Magham.

Padma Purana Teachings on Trimurti

In the beginning, the great Vishnu desirous of creating the whole world became threefold: creator, preserver, and destroyer. In order to produce this world, the Supreme Spirit emanated from the right side of his body himself as Brahma. Then in order to preserve the universe, he produced from the left side of his body Vishnu In order to destroy the world, he produced form the middle of his body the eternal Shiva. Some worship Brahma, some Vishnu, and other Shiva; but Vishnu, one yet threefold, creates, preserves, and destroy; therefore let the pious make no difference between the three. Padma Purana

Kondagattu Temple Timings – Kondagattu Hanuman Temple Daily Darshan Timings - Aanjaneya Swami Temple in Andhra Pradesh

Kondagattu Hanuman Temple , popularly known as Aanjaneya Swami Temple , is located at Kondagattu in Andhra Pradesh. The daily darshan time of the temple is given in detail below. The opening and closing time of the temple changes during auspicious occasions and also during grahan (eclipse). Morning Darshan Timings is from -  4:00 AM to 12:45 PM Suprabhata Seva 4:00 AM Sri Swami Vari Aradhana 4:30 AM to 5:45 AM 5:45 AM to 6:00 AM – Balaboga Nivedna Modati Ganta 6:00 AM to 7:30 AM Surya Darshan 7:30 AM to 8:00 AM Nitya Haratalu 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM Sri Swami Vari Abhishekam 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM – Sri Satyanarayana Swami Vratham Afternoon Darshan Timing is from - 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM Evening Darshan Timing is from -  4:30 PM to 8:30 PM Rendova Ganta – 12:30 PM Bhajana Tirtha Prasadam – 12:45 PM Viramam (not on Tuesday and Saturday) – 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM Surya Darshan – 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM – Sri Swami Aradahana 6:00 PM to 7:30 P

Uthradam Nakshatram Matching Stars for Marriage – Uthiradam Nakshatra Marriage Compatibility

Uthradam Nakshatram matching stars for marriage in details is given below. Uthiradam is the 21st birth star among the 27 Nakshatra in Hindu horoscope and astrology. Uthiradam marriage compatibility or the very best matching stars are Uthiram, Chothi and Pooradam Other good matching stars with Uthiradam are Thiruvathira, Pooyam, Pooram, Atham, Anizham, Moolam, Uthiradam, Thiruonam, Chathayam and Pooruruttathi (1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter) Ashwathy, Bharani, Kartika, Rohini, Ayiliyam, Makam, Chithira, Vishakam (1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter), Triketta, Avittam, Pooruruttathi (4th quarter), Uthrittathi and Revathi are okay – means not bad. Stars that do not match with Uthiradam are Makayiram, Punirtham and Vishakam (4th quarter).

Krimachi Pandava Temples in Udhampur in Jammu and Kashmir Face Neglect

Krimachi Pandava Temples in Udhampur in Jammu and Kashmir are ancient Hindu temples associated with the Pandavas in the Mahabharata. The Kirimachi Temple complex consists of five large and two small temples and is dedicated to Hindu God Shiva. The current temple complex is believed to have built during the 8th century AD and is located on the banks of two rivulets Birunala and Kirimachi. Krimachi is located on the Udhampur-Pancheri Road and is just 10 km from Udhampur. Hindustan Times reports  The temples that withstood the vagaries of time are presently virtually shouting for their recognition from the masses. Standing tall amidst eerie silence, the group of seven ancient temples that are a wonderful piece of craftsmanship give unforgettable experience to visitors.  Ironically, this historically significant place that is one of the most appropriate sites as far as heritage tourism is concerned, has been deprived of the basic infrastructures like road connectivity a

Birthday on Sunday – Meaning and Characteristics of Birthday on Sunday

As per Hindu astrology, birthday on Sunday means the person has the blessing of Sun god, Surya. The meaning and characteristics of birthday on Sunday are – the person will be intelligent, blessed with good looks, helpful, resourceful and will be always read to help others. On the negative side, the person will be proud and will also be a slave to his/her emotions – especially will not be able to control temper. Anger will cause damage in their life. They never forgive and will put full strength behind fights and arguments. 

Research Paper on Unknown Temples Ramanathapuram District in Tamil Nadu

Ramanathapuram District in Tamil Nadu is famous for the Ramanathaswamy Temple ( Rameshwaram Temple ). But there are over 50 ancient temples in the district that are famous for various reasons. R. Usha Manivasagam, a primary school teacher, did a research paper on the Unknown Temples Ramanathapuram District in Tamil Nadu and she was awarded a doctorate from the Madurai Kamaraj University. The Hindu writes  After five years of strenuous efforts, she came out with a 456-page thesis on five ancient temples which had ‘sthala puranams’ and 47 temples built by the Sethupathy Kings with no ‘sthala puarnam.’  The Veyil Ugandha Vinayagar Temple at Uppur should have been a temple dedicated to Sun God before it became a temple for Lord Vinayagar, she says. The legacy has it that Lord Ram visited the temple before proceeding to Rameswaram. Some 400 years ago, devotees visiting Rameswaram began the ‘theerthavari’ from this temple. The Kariamanickam Perumal Temple at Alam

Atma Bodha Quotes

Brahman is other than this, the Universe. There exists nothing that is not Brahman. If any object other than Brahman appears to exist, it is unreal like the mirage. As fire is the direct cause of cooking, so knowledge, and not any other form of discipline, is the direct cause of liberation; for liberation cannot be attained without knowledge. The purpose of austerities is purification of heart and creation of a mental condition to aid one's spiritual growth and render it fit for pursuing the path of knowledge. Names and forms are like bangles and bracelets, and Vishnu is like gold. Atma Bodha is a Vedantic Text composed by Adi Shankaracharya 

Swami Protoplasm Teachings

A few teachings of Swami Protoplasm. Everyone is made up of cells and protoplasm. It is unavoidable truth that we all share the same family – that of a protoplasm. Through the discovery of protoplasm, scientists are corroborating the Vedantic principle that there is one Atman in all beings – the same that is in you is also in the weakest and strongest of human beings, animals, reptiles and birds. I do not see myself as separate from any of these. Everything around us is protoplasm. What protoplasm is to science, Brahman is to Rishis. Consciousness is beyond definition. The wonderstruck rishis after intense Tapasya saw before them a vast source of creation that was endless, most compassionate and immensely blissful – that was the only Truth. They exclaimed – that which pervades the entire unbroken form of the circle of creation, moving and unmoving to that beautiful and benevolent Guru through whom that state was revealed to me – salutations. 

Varadaraja Temple Timings – Kanchipuram Varadaraja Darshan Timing – Daily Opening and Closing Time

Varadaraja Temple located in Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu is a very popular shrine dedicated to Hindu God Vishnu in South India . Below are the daily darshan timings – opening and closing time. As Varadaraja, Vishnu is the boon giving deity. Kanchipuram Varadarja Temple Timings Morning Darshan Timing – 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM Evening Darshan Timing – 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM Please note that the temple timing might be extended during festivals and other auspicious dates. The temple will remain closed when there is grahan or eclipse in India . 

Pooradam Nakshatram Matching Stars for Marriage – Pooradam Nakshatra Marriage Compatibility

Pooradam Nakshatra matching stars for marriage in details is given below. Pooradam is the 20th birth star among the 27 Nakshatra in Hindu horoscope and astrology. Pooradam marriage compatibility or the very best matching stars are Pooram and Uthiram. Other good matching stars with Pooradam are Makayiram (3rd and 4th quarter), Punirtham, Ayiliyam, Makam, Atham, Chithira, Chothi, Vishakam (1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter), Moolam, Pooradam, Utthiradam (1st quarter), Pooruruttathi (4th quarter) and Revathi Bharani, Kartika (2nd, 3rd and 4th quarter), Rohini, Makayiram (1st and 2nd quarter), Thiruvathira, Pooyam, Vishakam (4th quarter), Anizham, Triketta, Uthiradam (2nd, 3rd and 4th quarter), Avittam, Pooruruttathi (1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter) and Uthrittathi are okay – means not bad. Star that do not match with Pooradam are Ashwathy, Kartika (1st quarter), Thiruonam and Chathayam.

Moolam Nakshatram Matching Stars for Marriage – Moolam Nakshatra Marriage Compatibility

Moolam Nakshatram matching stars for marriage in details is given below. Moolam is the 19th birth star among the 27 Nakshatra in Hindu horoscope and astrology. Moolam marriage compatibility or the very best matching stars are Magham, Atham, and Vishakam. Other good matching stars with Moolam are Thiruvathira, Punirtham, Pooyam, Ayiliyam, Pooram, Chithira, Chothi and Triketta. Ashwathy, Kartika (3rd and 4th quarter), Rohini, Makayiram (3rd and 4th quarter), Uthiram, Anizham, Moolam, Pooradam, Uthiradam (1st quarter), Thiruonam, Avittam, Chathayam, Pooruruttathi, Uthrittathi and Revathi are okay – means not bad. Stars that do not match with Moolam are Bharani, Kartika (1st and 2nd quarter), Makayiram (1st and 2nd quarter) and Uthiradam (2nd, 3rd and 4th quarter).

Paramapada Ekadasi In December - January

Paramapada Ekadasi is observed mainly in temples in South India – especially at Tirumala Tirupati Balaji Temple , Sri Ranganatha Temple at Srirangam and in numerous other Vishnu Temples in South India . This Ekadasi is popularly known as Vaikunta Ekadasi and Mukkoti Ekadasi. In 2025, Paramapada Ekadasi is on January 10. It is known as the Paramapada Ekadasi because on this day Paramapada Vasal or the door to the Vaikunta in the sanctum sanctorum of Vishnu temple is open to devotees. This door is also known as ‘Vaikunta Dwaram’ or ‘Swargada Bagilu’ (the gate to the heaven). Devotees are allowed to pass through the Vaikunta Dwaram on this day. Symbolically the door leads to Vaikunta – the abode of Srihari Vishnu. This Ekadasi is known as Mukkoti Ekadasi at the Bhadrachalam Sri Rama Temple .

Book on Hanuman for Children – The Mighty Tale of Hanuman

The Mighty Tale of Hanuman is authored by Saker Mistri and Mamta Dalal Mangaldas and the book is aimed at children between the age of six and ten. The highlight of the book is the use of 18th century Ramayana Paintings from the Mehrangarh Museum Trust. The book is also for a good cause as all the profit from the sale of the book will be used to support girl child literacy in Rajasthan. The paintings used in this book were originally commissioned by Maharaja Vijai Singh of Jodhpur - between 1752 and 1793. Mumbai Mirror reports Mistri and Mangaldas both believe that art should not be scary for children. According to Mangaldas, artistically inclined children are left behind due to the big gap in curriculum when it comes to art. The main idea behind this project is to foster an appreciation for art using the popular tale of Ramayana as a comfortable base. You can get more details about the book here at the official website.

Sabarimala Thiruvabharanam Procession 2024 to starts on January 13

The Thiruvabharanam Procession from Pandalam Valiya Koyikkal Sree Dharma Sastha Temple to Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple carries the ornaments in gold to be adorned on the murti of Ayyappa Swamy on Makaravilakku Puja day. In 2024, Sabarimala Thiruvabharanam Procession will begin on January 13. The Makaravilakku Puja is on the evening of January 15, 2024. This year the procession will be taking the traditional route. For past several decades, the traditional route was not followed. The New Indian Express reports  The Thiruvabharanam, kept in three sandalwood boxes, will be carried on head by a traditional 12-member team led by Kulathinal Gangadharan Pillai and Pratapan. The three-day procession will leave Pandalam Valiyakoickal temple at 1 pm after witnessing a golden eagle in the sky above the temple. 

Current Year in Hindu Calendar – What is the Current Year in Hindu Calendar?

What is the current year in Hindu calendar? This is a tricky question as there are more than 7 important calendars in India . Large number of Hindus follow the Vikram Samvat calendar Hindi Calendar and in it the current year is 2079 – this calendar is followed in North India . Another important calendar is the Saka calendar that is followed in Maharashtra , Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka as per it the current year is 1944. Current year as per Hindu calendar followed in Bengal and Assam is 1429. Current year in calendar followed in Kerala is 1198. You can get more details about the current year in this article.

University Dedicated to the study of Epic Ramayan Planned in Vaishali District in Bihar

Mahavir Mandir Trust is planning to create a university dedicated to the study of epic Ramayan in Vaishali District in Bihar . Hindustan Times reports  "Apart from teaching, this unique varsity will be an advanced centre of research on the Ramayan and allied subjects. It will have a wifi campus and IT facilities," said Acharya Kishore Kunal, chairman of the Patna-based Mahavir Mandir Trust.  The trust plans specialised five-year course in astronomy, astrophysics, Hindu mythology, Vedas and Upanishads, Sanskrit and much more in a bid to preserve and promote the literature of the Ramayan in Sanskrit, Hindi, vernacular texts or the languages of South East Asian countries.  "The Valmiki Ramayan will be the main foundation of the syllabus, but other Ramayans such as Adhyatma and Anand as well as Sanskrit works like Raghuvansha of Kalidas will also be included,” Kunal said.  Ram-charit-manas of Tulsidas in Hindi and all other epics in vernacular languages like Tam

Naba Barsha or Poila Baisakh Messages and Quotes – Bengali New Year Greetings

Naba Barsha or Poila Baisakh is the New Year as per traditional calendar followed in Bengal and Bangladesh . Here is a collection of Naba Barsha or Poila Baisakh Messages and Quotes for 2014 that can be used to greet your friends and relatives. Let this Poila Baisakh give you the strength to do all that you dreamed to do during last year but didn’t dare to do. Poila Baisakh stands for new and fresh – Life is always new and fresh – Let us strive to make all days Nava Barsha. May this Poila Baisakh be a good and prosperous one for all of us. Let us welcome this Naba Barsha with great hope, eagerness and anticipation. Let us look forward to a plentiful year of joy, satisfaction, peace and prosperity. Happy Poila Baisakh! Let this be a delightful year, filled with delightful things in each of its days. This is a time of new beginnings and for the celebration of life – Happy Naba Barsha Let this Poila Baisakh bring peace and prosperity in the lives of all. Let us vow to take

If these things do not satisfy me, what then do I seek? – Sri Aurobindo

If these things do not satisfy me, what then do I seek? I seek a light that shall be new, yet old, the oldest indeed of all lights. I seek an authority that accepting, illuminating and reconciling all human truth, shall yet reject and get rid of by explaining it all mere human error. I seek a text and a Shastra that is not subject to interpolation, modification and replacement, that moth and white ant cannot destroy, that the earth cannot bury nor Time mutilate. I seek an asceticism that shall give me purity and deliverance from self and from ignorance without stultifying God and His universe. I seek a skepticism that shall question everything but shall have the patience to deny nothing that may possibly be true. I seek a rationalism not proceeding on the untenable supposition that all the centuries of man’s history except the nineteenth (read as present century) were centuries of folly and superstition, but bent on discovering truth instead of limiting inquiry

Book – Dancing with Shiva in pdf – Download the book – Dancing with Shiva – for free

Dancing with Shiva is a very popular book on Hinduism. It is written by Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami. Now you can download the book in pdf for free. The book answers numerous questions like What are life's ultimate goals? How can I achieve them? How do Hindus view family, sex, sin, worship, death and nonviolence? What are the foremost schools of Hindu thought, and what do they teach? How do all the great religions look at God, salvation, heaven and hell? How did Hinduism evolve through history? What do we teach to children? And many more… Link – Download Book - Dancing with Shiva in pdf

Ganapati Kalyanam – The Story of the Phrase

Ganapati Kalyanam is a phrase used in South India to refer to the marriage of a person, which is continuously postponed due to various reasons and never takes place. This phrase is associated with a local story associated with Shiva and Ganesha. Legend has it that one day Ganapati felt like getting married. He immediately dashed towards Mount Kailash the abode of Shiva and Goddess Parvati. There he asked his parents about his marriage. He wanted to know the date of his marriage. This sudden request from Ganapati puzzled Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Shiva then wrote on a stone nearby ‘Tomorrow is the marriage.’ Ganesha then forgot about the marriage subject and indulged in his leelas. But whenever Ganesha remembered about his marriage, Shiva pointed towards the stone. Thus the marriage of Ganapati was eternally postponed. Note – In some Hindu cultures, Hindu God Ganesh is a bachelor. But there are some cultures in which he is a family man. Siddhi and Riddhi, dau

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2014 by Government of India – Dates and Application Forms for 2014 Yatra – Apply Online

Booking and Selection Process for the annual Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2014 organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, has begun. The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2014 is open to all Indian citizens, above 18 years of age and not attained 70 years, who wish to proceed to Kailash Manasarovar in  China  for religious purposes. Applications are available now. Kailash Manasarovar Yatra in Hinduism Kailash Manasarovar Yatra conducted by the Government of India includes visit to  Mount   Kailash  – the abode of Lord Shiva – and  Manasarovar   Lake . According to Hindu scriptures, those who take a dip in the Manasarovar and complete the parikrama (circumambulate) around  Mount   Kailash  are absolved of their sins and are liberated from the cycle of birth and death. They are ultimately united with Brahman (symbolically represented by  Mount   Kailash  or Shiva). Last Date of Receiving Application is March 10, 2014. Last Date of Online Application is M

Vemalamma – About Goddess Vemalamma

Vemalamma is a village deity worshipped mainly in Andhra Pradesh and parts of Karnataka. She is associated with the neem tree – Vepa or Vema. The Goddess is worshipped in the form of neem tree. In some regions the murti (idols of Vemalamma) are placed beneath the neem tree. Vemalamma is the deity that cures common diseases like fever, cough, cold, infection, chicken pox, small pox etc. When villages are inflicted with contagious diseases, the villagers turn to Vemalamma for protection. Symbolically, the deity represents the various medicinal property of the neem tree.