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Showing posts from June, 2014


Baba Baidyanath Temple Darshan Time – Deoghar Baba Baidyanath Dham Temple opening and closing Timings

Baba Baidyanath Temple , dedicated to God Shiva, is one of the Jyotirlinga Temples in India . The daily darshan time at Deoghar Baba Baidyanath Dham Temple is given in detail below. Please note that the opening and closing time of the temple will be extended during Shravan month and also during important rituals and festivals. Baidyanath Temple Timings Morning Darshan Timings is from 4 AM to 3:30 PM Evening Darshan Time is from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM In the morning the main priest performs a 16-step puja and later devotees start performing puja and pouring water over the Shivling. In the evening shringar puja is performed by the priest. Devotees then perform the puja.

Lokpal Puja in Bhadrapad Month

Lokpal puja is observed in Bhadrapad month and is dedicated to Vishnu and Shiva. It is an important ritual in Varanasi . Lokpal puja 2024 date is September 1. Bhagvan Srihari Vishnu is Lokpal – the sustainer of earth or one who looks after all living beings on earth – protector. Shiva and Goddess Parvati reside at Lokpal as per some scriptures associated with Varanasi . Lokpal puja is observed on the Chaturdashi day in Bhadrapad month – the 14th day during the waning phase of moon in Bhadrapad month.

Matki Phod Leela in Barsana

Matki Phod Leela in Barsana is observed in Bhadrapad month. It is performed in the Barsana region in Vrindavan – Mathura in Uttar Pradesh. Matki Phod Leela 2024 date is August 31. The festival is observed in Barsana on Bhadrapad Shukla Paksha Trayodashi Tithi – the 13th day during the waxing phase of moon in Bhadrapad month. The main festival involves breaking of color pots. The leelas in Vrindavan is associated with Lord Krishna, especially the young age of Bhagavan. There is a popular belief that Bhagavan used to break the colorful pots of Gopis of vrindavan using a handheld catapult. Little Krishna also used to break the pots to steal butter from the pots of Gopis in their house. Due to his naughty behavior, Mother Yashoda had tied him to a mortar. Later, Bhagavan pulled the Mortar into the courtyard and gave moksha to two Devas who had become twin trees due to a curse.

Agnishwara Shiva – Story of Shiva as Agniswara

Shiva appeared as Agnishwara to rescue a young boy. The young boy was an ardent devotee of Shiva but was destined to die at the young age of 12. The story has it that Shiva appeared in the form Agniswara and rescued the boy. Legend has it that Sage Visvanara and Suchismati who lived in the city of Dharmapura , on the banks of Narmada , prayed to Lord Shiva for an intelligent child. Shiva blessed them and a son was born to the couple who was named Grahapati. When the boy was in his 11th year, Sage Narada informed the sage and his wife that some injury will happen to the boy and it would be in the form of fire. The parents were worried but the young boy comforted them and told them that he will offer prayers to Shiva who will rescue him from any doom. The boy then went to Kashi and offered prayers daily after taking bath in the Manikaran Ghat. He worshipped a Shivling on the ghats for a year. When the time foretold by Sage Narada arrived, Indra appeared before the b

Pataleshwara Temple at Talakad – Shivling Worshipped Here Changes Color

Pataleshwara Temple at Talakad in Karnataka is one of the Panchalinga Temples. The unique feature of the Shivling worshipped in the temple is that it changes color three times a day. The Shivling is red in color in the morning; black in the afternoon and white in the evening. Pataleshwara Temple is also known as Vasukishwara Temple . It is widely believed that Snake Vasuki worshipped Shiva at the temple. Related Talakadu Temple in Karnataka - Important temples in Talakad History of Talakad and Story of the Curse That Buried Talakkad below Sands

Thoughts and Quotes on Puri Jagannath

Once you appeared in the woods. On the banks of Kalindi Dancing to the tune of the sweet consort seeking nectar from the lotus faces of   cowherd women. Laxmi, Siva, Indra & Ganesh O Lord, the Master of the Universe appear in my vision (Jagannatha Ashtakam) I ask not anything from you O Jagannath, ask not for wealth or woman But beg for small measure of Saradha Sands (Salabeg) One who has no hand and leg moves fastest, captures all, sees everything around, hears even the faintest sound, knows everyone, matter or being, but no one knows Him, is called great primal spirit One who recites hymns of holy feet of Krishna Worries don’t touch him Adoring Govinda’s holy feet in heart, If moves eyes shut If runs without knowing the pathway That being does never fall down. (Srimad Bhagavad Purana) Oh ! God having big hands !, Keep me under the shelter of Your hands. Please keep me under the shelter of Yours arms. Oh God! If You enlarge your b

Abakash Besha of Jagannath – Picture of Early Morning Form of Jagannath at Puri Jagannath Temple

Abakash Besha is the first form in which a devotee can have darshan of Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra at the Puri Jagannath Temple . Below is the picture of this early morning form of the murtis worshipped in the temple. On each day early in the morning the deities are adorned with this minimalist vesha for the divine ablutions. The deities are only covered in two pieces of cloth known as ‘Tadap’ and ‘Uttariya’ Abakash Besha of Jagannath, Shubhadra and Balabhadra

Wisdom From Ancient Hindu Sayings

A collection of wisdom from ancient Hindu sayings. Disease, sorrow, suffering, bondage, alienation — all these are the fruits of the tree of ‘sin against oneself’ reaped by embodied souls. Virtuous men who are always bent on doing good to others never allow their souls to be contorted even when harm is done to them. The sandalwood tree only imparts fragrance to the edge of the axe that cuts it down. Time is cooking all beings in the cauldron of great delusion using the sun as fire and days and nights as fuel, stirring them with the ladles of months and seasons—this is the news. There is no better well-wisher in this world than the critic. [Through criticism] he takes away one’s sins (papam) and in exchange gives his merits (punyam) to the person he criticizes. Where there is a noble soul, there is God. A good son is the light of the family. Silence is as deep as eternity, speech as shallow as time. Life is a pilgrimage to the shrine of eternal wisdom. Dev

Swami Haridas Jayanti

Swami Haridas was a great classical musician and spiritual composer and poet and the found of the Haridasi School of mysticism. Swami Haridas Jayanti is the birth anniversary of this great and pious soul and is observed in the Bhadrapad month. Swami Haridas Jayanti 2024 date is September 11. Swami Haridas is credited with numerous devotional musical compositions in the Dhrupad style of music. He was a great saint in the Bhakti tradition and he spread Bhakti or devotion through devotional songs dedicated to Sri Krishna and Radha Rani. He had numerous disciples and Mia Tansen was one of them. It is said that Akbar himself disguised as a servant arrived at the home of Swami Haridas to listen to the great musician. Swami Haridas Jayanti is widely observed in North India , especially in Vrindavan. Swami Haridas Jayanti is annually observed on the Bhadrapad Shukla Paksha Ashtami tithi – the eighth day during the waxing phase of moon in Bhadrapad month as per traditional Hi

Aghoreshwar Bhagwan Ram Jayanti at Varanasi

Aghoreshwar Bhagwan Ram, also known as Bhagwan Ramji or Awadhoot Bhagwan Ram, was a great saint in the Aghori Tradition. Aghoreshwar Bhagwan Ram Jayanti is observed in the Bhadrapad month. Aghoreshwar Bhagwan Ram Jayanti 2024 date is September 10. It is an important event at Varanasi (Kashi). A saint in the Aghori tradition, Bhagwan Ramji fought against many social evils including inequality, dowry and pomp and show in weddings. He worked tirelessly for the upliftment of the poor and the downtrodden. Along with philanthropic activities he also indulged in deep meditation. Thousands of people used to arrive to listen to his words. Aghoreshwar Bhagwan Ram Jayanti is annually observed on the Bhadrapad Shukla Paksha Saptami tithi – the seventh day during the waxing phase of moon in Bhadrapad month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in North India .

Sant Lahanuji Maharaj Punyatithi at Takharkhed in Wardha

Sant Lahanuji Maharaj (1895 – 1971) was a great saint in the Bhakti tradition in central India especially in Maharashtra . His punyatithi or death anniversary is annually observed in the Shravan month. Sant Brahanpur Maharaj Punyatithi 2024 date is August 19. It is an important event at Takharkhed in Wardha and in many regions in Maharashtra Sant Lahanuji Maharaj taught the equality of all people. He gave advice and darshan to people from all walks of life. The punyatithi is annually observed on the Shravan Purnima tithi – the full moon day in Shravan month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra .

Lord Jagannath Murti or Idol – an unburned part of the body of Sri Krishna Cremated by Pandavas

There is a widespread belief that the murti of Jagannath worshipped in the Puri Jagannath Temple is nothing but the unburned part of the body of Sri Krishna which is believed to have been cremated by the Pandavas. There are numerous versions to this story. One legend has it that the wood that was floating in the sea that King Indradyumna found and which became the murti at the Jagannath Temple was the body of Sri Krishna. Another legend has it that the body of Sri Krishna after he left earth was cremated by the Pandavas. But his heart remained intact. The heart was then given to the sea god. Jara Sabar, the hunter who mistakenly hit Sri Krishna with arrow thinking it was a deer, was watching the cremation. He was in deep pain as he had not intended to hurt Sri Krishna. He jumped into the sea and tried to recover the heart. When he found the heart, it had turned into a bluestone. This was worshipped by him in a cave. Centuries, later when King Indradyumna forcibl

Dwar Yatra at Chinchwad in Maharashtra

Dwar Yatra in Chinchwad in Maharashtra is organized from the Mangalmurti ( Ganesha Temple ) Shrine in Chinchwad Gaon. Dwar Yatra at Chinchwad in 2024 begins on August 5. The four day Dwar Yatra travels in four directions. The first Yatra is held on the Shravan Shukla Paksha Pratipada Tithi or the first day during the waxing phase of moon in Marathi Calendar. On Shravan Shukla Paksha Pratipada Tithi the Dwar Yatra is held to the Manjra Devi temple in Pimpri. (August 5, 2024) On Shravan Shukla Paksha Dwitiya Tithi the yatra is to the Asrai Devi temple in Wakad. (August 6, 2024) On Shravan Shukla Paksha Tritiya Tithi Dwar Yatra is to the Ozarai Devi temple on Ravet Hill. (August 7, 2024) On Shravan Shukla Paksha Chaturthi Tithi Dwar Yatra is to the Muktai temple in Akurdi on Ravet Hill. (August 8, 2024) Thousands of devotees participate in the annual yatra held for four days to the four temples in four directions in Chinchwad Town .

Aani Thirumanjanam Festival at Avudayar Koil in Tamil Nadu - Aani Uthiram at Avudayar Koil

Aani Thirumanjanam or Aani Uthiram is an important festival at the Sri Athmanathaswamy Temple at Avudayar Koil in Tamil Nadu. In 2024, the important festival dates are July 10, July 11 and July 12. Aani Thirumanjanam is on July 12. Main rituals involve the pulling of the chariot of saint-poet Sri Manickavasagar around the temple street. This is performed on two days.  ‘Velli Ther’ ritual is usually held on the day before Aani Thirumanjanam. In it the processional murti of Saint Manickavasagar is taken around the streets from evening to night. The important ritual of Upadesa Kaatchi is performed in the early morning hours of Aani Thirumanjanam day.

Shukatal – Place in India Where Srimad Bhagavad Purana was first Recited - Shukratal

Shukatal, also referred as Shukratal, is located in North India . It is believed that here on the banks of Ganga under a banyan tree, Shuka, son of Sage Veda Vyasa narrated Srimad Bhagavad Purana to King Parikshit. Shukatal is located around 130 km northeast of Delhi and is around 20 km from Muzaffarnagar. On a small hillock on the left bank of Ganga at Shukatal there is a small temple with images of King Parikshit and Sage Shuka ( Sukadeva ). The Srimad Bhagavad Puran was narrated by Sage Shuka to King Parikshit to help him attain salvation. Parikshit, son of Abhimanyu and grandson of Arjuna, was an able ruler. He ensured dharma prevailed in the Kali Yuga in his kingdom by driving away evil. But once while the king was on a hunting expedition he felt thirsty and approached the ashram of Sage Samika. The sage was in deep meditation and did not notice the arrival of the king and he also did not respond to the calls of the thirsty king. In a fit of rage, Pariksh

Aparajita Saptami in Bhadrapad Month

Aparajita Saptami is dedicated to the Goddess Aparajita form of Durga and it is observed on the Bhadrapad Shukla Paksha Saptami or the seventh day during the waxing phase of moon in Bhadrapad month. Aparajita Saptami 2024 date is September 10. Aparajita means the one who is unconquered. Popular belief is that in the Aparajitha form, Mother Goddess vanquished all those that were practicing Adharma. She protected those following dharma. She is mainly worshipped on the Mahanavami day during Navratri.

Saraswati Puja in Odisha in Bhadrapad Month

An important Goddess Saraswati Puja in Odisha is held on the Shukla Paksha Chaturthi or fourth day during the waxing phase of moon in Bhadrapad month. Saraswati Puja 2024 date in Odisha is on September 7. Goddess Saraswati is the goddess of learning in Hinduism. Please note that Saraswati Puja is also held in Odisha on Basant Panchami day and also during Navratri (September – October). During Saraswati Puja in Bhadrapada month early morning prayers are offered to Goddess Saraswati. The day is also auspicious to Ganesha. The annual Ganesh Chaturthi festival is held on the same day.

Mirror Image of Bhagavad Gita in Hindi and English

Mirror image is the likeness in which left and right are reversed. The first Bhagavad Gita in the world in mirror image was written by Piyush Goel a resident of Dadri in Gautam Buddha Nagar District in the state of Uttar Pradesh , India . He has created the mirror image of Bhagavad Gita in Hindi and English. Piyush says, “It is the first Bhagwad Gita in the world written in mirror image. I wrote the epic in my own hand writing in two languages, Hindi and English. One can read all the 18 chapters and 700 verses in front of a mirror.”

Worship of Sri Sudarshan Chakra at Puri Jagannath Temple - Chakraraj Sudarshan

Apart from the three murtis – Jagannath, Balabhadra and Shubhadra – Sri Sudarshan Chakra is also worshipped in the Puri Jagannath Temple . The four murtis together are known as Chaturdhha Murti. Chakraj Sudarshan worship is mentioned in Brahma Purana and Skanda Purana. In the main sanctum sanctorum of the Puri Jagannath Temple , Sri Sudarshan is seated on the left side of the Jagannath murti. Sudarshan Chakra represents the supreme luminescence of the Supreme Purusha. It is the divine symbol of Bhagvan Vishnu – made popular on earth by Sri Krishna. Sri Sudarshan goes in the front of Lord Jagannath in all His spiritual yatras. In the Rath Yatra, the divine chakra is brought out first in a Pahandi and is then seated in Debadalana Chariot of goddess Subhadra ahead of all other murtis. Apart from Rath Yatra, the Sudrashan chakra is brought out on Shravan Purnima, Radha Ashtami and Kumar Purnima.

Mahabharata in Bengali – Read or Download the Epic Mahabharat in Bengali

The Mahabharata Epic in Bengali is provided by Digital Library of India – an undertaking of the Government of India. You can read and download the Bengali Mahabharat credited to Sri Haridas Siddhanta Bagish Bhattacharya. You can read the Bengali Mahabharata Online and there is also an option to download but it works rarely. Please note that it is not in pdf format. Link – This is the link to the first chapter of MahabharataEpic in Bengali. (You will need to download software to read the epic from the website) You can get the rest of the chapters by doing a search for Haridas Sidhantvaagish in the author column here in this link. Please note the links are in a government of India maintained site and you never know when it will be down and when it will resume. So please do not find fault with me as I am just providing valuable information.

Story Of Satyaki – Friend Of Sri Krishna

Satyaki was a Yadava strong man and a close friend of Sri Krishna and Arjuna. He learned mastery in many weapons from Sri Krishna. Satyaki was also known as Yuyudhana and is mentioned in the Srimad Bhagavad Purana, Harivamsa and the Mahabharata. He was a brave warrior, devout follower of Sri Krishna and supporter of the Pandavas. Satyaki accompanied Sri Krishna during the coronation of Yudhisthira at Indraprastha; during the marriage of Abhimanyu at Virata, he also accompanied Sri Krishna who went as emissary of Pandavas to the Kaurava court on the eve of the Kurukshetra war. As per Srimad Bhagavad Purana, Satyaki was present in all battles that Sri Krishna participated even in the numerous battles against Jarasandha. Satyaki and his army were present during the 18-day war in the Mahabharata and supported the Pandavas. He and his army defeated many important warriors. When Ashwathama and Kripa entered the Pandava Camp on the night after the Kurukshetra war and butch

Angiras Rishi Jayanti

Angiras Rishi is one of the mind born sons of Brahma – the Hindu God of Creation. Angiras Rishi Jayanti is the birth anniversary of the sage and it is observed on the fifth day (Pancham Tithi) during the Shukla Paksha or waxing phase of moon in the Bhadrapada month (August – September). Angiras Rishi Jayanti 2024 date is September 8. Spiritual organizations and ashrams observe special pujas and rituals on the day. It is said in the scriptures that Angiras Rishi had attained the statues of Agni through tapas or austerities.

Saptarishi Puja 2024 Date

Saptarishi Puja is dedicated to the Saptarishis – the seven sages. Saptarishi Puja 2024 date is September 8. It is observed on the fifth day (Pancham Tithi) during the Shukla Paksha or waxing phase of moon in the Bhadrapada month (August – September). In  Nepal  and  North India , the day marks the final day Hartalika Teej fasting. On the Saptarishi Puja day homage is paid to the Sapta Rishis – the seven sages – Kashyapa, Atri, Bharadhwaja, Vishwamitra, Gauthama, Jamadagni and Vashishta. Saptarishi Puja is an important event for many spiritual organizations in  North India .

Ma Lalitha Devi Temple at Meerapur in Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh – Maa Lalitha Devi Mandir

Maa Lalitha Devi Temple is one of the Shaktipeetahs as it is believed that the finger of Goddess Sati fell here. This is a unique Goddess Shakti Temple as she is worshipped in three forms – Ma Lalitha, Ma Saraswati and Ma Kali. It is believed that the Pandavas visited the temple and offered prayers here. Apart from the murtis of the Mother Goddess, there is a famous Shakti Yantra in the sanctum. There is also a separate shrine dedicated to Shiva in the form of Paras Shivling. Outside the sanctum sanctorum there is a murti of Baba Kaal Bhairav. Apart from this the temple has murtis of Ganesha, Balgopal Krishna, Sri Ram and Mata Sita, Lakshman, Lakshmi Narayan, Radha Krishna, Hanuman and the Navgrahas. The most important festival celebrated in the temple is Navratri. An annual fair is held for three day starting from Vaishakh Shukla Paksha Saptami. The main Goddess worshipped in the shrine Ma Lalitha is also considered a Tantric Devi. The temple is al

Old Malayalam Hindu Devotional Songs – Bhajana Keerthanas – Keerthanaratnangal Available in audio and book format

A collection of nearly 500 old Malayalam Hindu devotional songs is being released in book and also audio format by Sri Sathish Chandran. The book has already been published. It contains 451 Keerthanams, Ashtotharanamavalis and 9 Mangalams. The audio series of old Malayalam Hindu Devotional Songs is currently being released. The first audio CD containing 10 songs was recently released. You can find more details about the book and cds and also contact details here at the website - Keerthanaratnangal

Why are the Jagannath Chariots or Rath pulled to the Gundicha Temple?

In the Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra, the three chariots are pulled to the Gundicha Temple and the deities stay here for nearly a week. But why are the chariots pulled to the Gundicha Temple ? The temple is known as the Garden House of Sri Jagannath and is located around 3 km from the Puri Jagannath Temple. The Gundicha Temple is named after Queen Gundicha, the wife of King Indradyumna. This king was responsible for installing the deities in the Jagannath Temple . The king had a divine order to take a wood found on the sea near Puri and construct the murti to be worshipped in the temple which he was planning to construct in his capital. But no artisan had the knowledge to sculpt the divine murti. It is said that Vishwakarma, the divine carpenter, came in the form an old man and agreed to carve the murtis. But he had set a condition, he will complete the murtis in 21 days but no one should look into the chamber in which the work was going on. The king agreed and t

Timings at Dehu Road Ayyappa Temple – Opening and Closing Darshan Time at Dehu Road Ayyappa Temple

Dehu Road Ayyappa Temple is located on the old Mumbai – Pune Road and is around 25 km from Pune after Pimpri – Chinchwad and Nigdi. The temple timings are given below in detail. Opening and closing darshan time is extended on Saturdays and other important ritual days. Morning Darshan Timings at Dehu Road Ayyappa Temple 5:00 AM to 10:30 AM Evening Darshan Time 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM Detail Temple Timing 5:00 AM - Palli Unarthal 5:30 AM - Nirmalyam - darshan of murti without alankara 5:45 AM - Abhishekam 6:00 AM - Ganapathi Homam 5:30 PM - Opening of temple 6:30 PM - Deeparadhana On Saturday – the evening Darshan Time is up to 9:00 PM

The Quest – Biopic on the life of Swami Chinmayananda

Biopic titled – The Quest: Film on A Visionary’s Life and Mission – is based on the life of Swami Chinmayananda, one of the worlds most renowned and revered exponents of Vedanta and founder of Chinmaya Mission. The timeline of the film is from the time Chinmayananda was a child till he became old. The film is directed by RS Prasanna in associated with Chinmaya Mission. The film will be released in 2014. From the flyer Who was he before he became the great Swami Chinmayananda? How did this passionate, witty, outspoken freedom fighter and atheist turn into an enlightened master?  His life is a story of an unconventional seeker – a mischievous child, a rebellious youth, a revolutionary freedom fighter, a witty journalist and even a daring atheist. Watch his story unfold from the young child, Balakrishnan Menon to the mighty Swami Chinmayananda, one of the most powerful orators of Truth who ever lived – and one who would live long after his time.  ‘The Quest’ is an

Patalesvara Temple – a Shiva Temple inside Jagannath Temple Complex

Patalesvara Temple , a shrine dedicated to Shiva, is located in the northern inner courtyard of the Jagannath Temple complex in Puri. Pataleshvara Shiva is one of the guardian deities of the temple. The unique aspect of the temple is that it is erected 27 feet below the ground level. A swayambhu Shivling is worshipped in the temple. It is a panchamukhi Shivling – five faced. The Shivling is installed below the Shaktipitha and therefore it is not visible outside. So the temple is known Pataleshvara – Patal meaning underground. Built in sandstone and facing east, the temple consists of three structures – vimana, jagamohana and natamandapa. The temple is very important from archeological point of view due to numerous inscriptions. It is equally important architecturally because of the rare underground structure and sculptures. 

Chhinnamasta Mahavidya – About Goddess Chinnamasta - Mantra and Yantra

Chhinnamasta Mahavidya is the incarnation of Mother Goddess Shakti that appeared before the Devas, or Demi Gods, who sought for a wife for Shiva. Chinnamasta is one of the Dasa Mahavidyas – the ten goddesses. Chhinnamasta means ‘She whose head is severed.’ Mahadev Shiva led an ascetic life. He saw no sense in transitory pleasures of life. Devas realized that this would create an upheaval in the universe as there will be no creation if all the living being start to follow the path of Shiva. So they prayed to Goddess Shakti to help in solving the peculiar situation. Goddess Shakti then appeared before the Devas as Chhinnamasta. In this form, Mother Goddess was headless. She held a sword in one hand and in the other hand was her cut head. The head was drinking the blood that spurted from her cut head. Chhinnamasta is flanked by Jaya and Vijaya. In some painting it is two women that are on both the sides of the Goddess. She stands over Kama (God of Love) and his conso

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple Darshan Time – Opening and Closing Timings at Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple near Mysore

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple is a popular temple dedicated to Hindu God Sri Krishna in Gundlupet Taluk in Chamarajanagar District. The opening and closing timings in the temple is given below in detail. Please note that the Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple darshan time is different from other temples in Mysore region and Karnataka. Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple Darshan Timings Morning Darshan Time 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM Evening Darshan Time 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM Detailed Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple Timing Temple door opens at 9:00 AM Suprabatham Puja – 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM Morning Pujas - 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM All people Darshan - 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM Temple door closes from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Afternoon Darshan from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM

Andal Temple Timings – Srivilliputhur Andal Temple opening and closing timings

Srivilliputhur Andal Temple is dedicated to Goddess Andal – a manifestation of Goddess Lakshmi. Andal Temple timings in detail is given below. The opening and closing time will be extended during festivals especially Painguni Uthiram festival. You will see major changes in the temple timings during grahan or eclipse. Andal Temple Timings Morning Darshan Time is from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM Evening Darshan Time is from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM Detail puja timings at Srivilliputhur Andal Temple : 6:30 AM – Vishwaroopam 8:30 AM – Kala Sanathi 12:00 PM – Noon Puja 1:00 PM – Closing of Sanctum Sanctorum 4:00 PM – Opening of Sanctum Sanctorum 6:00 PM – Evening Puja 8:00 PM – Athalam 9:00 PM - Aravanai

Shiva as Kalarimurti

Shiva as Kalarimurti is associated with Him attacking Kala, the god of death. Kala is popularly known as Yama. The story of the manifestation of Kalarimurti is associated with Shiva appearing to save his ardent devotee Markandeya. Legend has it that Sage Mrikandu was long without a son. He offered prayers for an offspring. Brahma appeared before him and asked whether he would like a large number of foolish children or only one intelligent child but with a short span of 16 years of life. The Rishi chose the latter and Markandeya was born to him. Markandeya was an intelligent boy and soon he came to know about his short lifespan. He performed intense austerities to overcome Yama and when his time on earth was up, he was intensely absorbed in worshipping of Shiva. The attendants of Yama who arrived to capture Markandeya could not carry the soul of young Markandeya. Then, Yama himself arrived to capture the soul of Markandeya. When he was getting ready to take the soul, S

How many km is Amarnath Yatra Trek?

The Amarnath Yatra trek is about 44 km from trek from Pahalgam. The trek from Baltal to Amarnath Cave is around 15 KM. The detail kilometer of the trek is given below. Pahalgam to Amarnath Cave Trek KM. The trek from Pahalgam to Chandanwari base camp is around 16 km. From Chandanwari to Pissu Top is around 4 KM. From Pissu Top to Sheshnag is around 9 km. From Sheshnag to Mahagunstop is around 5 KM From Mahagunstop to Sangam is around 6 KM. From Sangam to Amarnath Cave is around 3 KM Baltal to Amarnath Cave Trek KM. Baltal to Domil is around 2 KM Domail to Barari is around 5 KM Barari to Sangam is around 4 KM Sangam to Amarnath Cave is around 3 KM

Devotees Can No Longer Climb the Puri Jagannath Raths (Chariots) during Rath Yatra

Till last year devotees could climb the three Rathas (chariots) in the Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra. But from this year (2014) onwards devotees will not be allowed to climb the chariots. The decision was taken by the Puri Jagannath Temple committee and Puri Shankaracharya. The Telegraph reports Orissa High Court today asked the Jagannath temple administration to abide by the Puri Shankaracharya’s opinion that devotees cannot climb the chariots and touch the deities during the annual rath yatra in Puri.  The temple managing committee had taken the decision on the basis of the opinion of the Shankaracharya that “none other than the sevaks (who perform rituals or seva-puja on the chariots during ratha yatra) — the Shankaracharya and the Gajapati Maharaja — are authorised to climb on to the chariots”.  The state government had on June 11 decided that devotees will not be allowed atop the chariots on the rath yatra day, during bahuda yatra (the return journey of the chariots) and

Neela Madhava form of Jagannath

Neela Madhava is a term used to refer to Lord Jagannath worshipped at the famous Puri Jagannath Temple . It is believed that an aboriginal tribe of the region worshipped Jagannath in this form. This form is also known as Madala – which means a torso without hand or leg. This is how the murti of Jagannath is still seen. The cave in which the Neela Madhava was worshipped was located in one of the remote caves of the Neelagiri mountains. It is believed that King Indradyummna and his minister Vidyapati discovered it. But image disappeared on spotting it by outsiders. The King is then believed to have recreated it at Puri.  

How many hymns are there in the Rig Veda?

A hymn in the Rig Veda is known as a sukta. The word sukta means well said or wise saying. Thus there are 1028 hymns in the Rig Veda containing 10552 riks or verses. Each hymn contains one or more verses. The 1028 hymns are divided into ten sections or mandalas. There are several rishis or saints who are referred to as the authors of hymns. The rishis received the hymns directly from the Supreme Truth.

List of Food Items Offered at the Puri Jagannath Temple - Mahaprasad Food Items

To offer to the deities, numerous dishes (Mahaprasad) are prepared in the kitchens of Puri Jagannath Temple . The kitchens in the temple are one of the largest in the world and can prepare food for 100,000 people. Here are the food items that are offered to Jagannath at the temple. The food offered to the deities is later distributed as Prasad. Devotees believe that receiving Mahaprasad will bring virtue, purity and piety. Two types of food are prepared for the Lord. Those that are prepared in the temple kitchens are known as Sankhudi. These are food prepared using rice, gram and other vegetables. Food that are prepared outside the main temple kitchen but inside the temple complex are known as Nisankhudi Bhogas. They include food made of flour, wheat, ghee and candy. Here is a list of food items that are prepared and served to the deities: Mahaprasad Food Items Jagannath Vallabh, Khaja, Gaja, Pheni, Luni Khuruma, Sweet Khuruma, Bada Poori, Kakatua Jhil

Durga Puja 2017 Live Online – Watch Live Streaming of Durga Puja 2017 from Kolkata Ramakrishna Math

Durga Puja 2017 Live is provided by Ramakrishna Math in Kolkata. Starting from September 20, 2017, you can watch various pujas, rituals and programs associated with Durga Puja held at Belur Math. Durga Puja rituals begin on September 26, 2017 with Sashti rituals. This is followed on September 28 with the Saptami Rituals. Ashtami and Navami rituals are held on September 29 and 30 respectively. Link – Durga Puja 2017 Live Online Alternative link – Belurmath TV

Gayatri Navratri

Gayatri Navratri, or Maa Shakambari Devi Navratri, is observed during the Ashada or Ashara Month (June – July). In 2024, Gayatri Navratri festival begins on July 6 and ends on July 15. This Navratri is popularly known as Gupt Navratri or Ashada Navratri. The nine-days are dedicated to the worship of the various forms of Goddess Shakti. Ashada Navratri is mainly dedicated to the worship of Goddess Varahi, one of the Sapta Matrikas (Seven Mothers). This Navratri festival is more popular in  North India  and in certain parts of Andhra Pradesh. Goddess Gayatri is also worshipped during this Navratri. But she is not worshipped during the Sharan Navratri (September/October). Ashada Navratri is celebrated as Guhya Navratri in Himachal Pradesh.  The nine-day festival of Ashada Navratri is of importance at the  Kanaka   Durga   Temple  in  Vijayawada  and in the  Bhadrakali   Temple  in  Warangal . The festival here is known as the Shakambari Navratri.

Five Jagannath Murtis (Idols) Worshipped in Puri Jagannath Temple

In the Puri Jagannath Temple there are five Jagannath Murtis (or idols) that are worshipped. The main murti is found in the Ratnavedi in the main sanctum sanctorum at Puri Jagannath temple. There are four other Murti worshipped in the Jagannath temple. Two of the murtis are found in the inner compound of the main temple and two are found in the outer compound. All the four murtis have a story, history and religious reason for being in the temple. Patitapaban Jagannath – This murti is found in the entrance – Simhadwar – of the temple. This murti is for all those people who cannot enter the main temple due to various reasons. Tirtheswar of Puri – This murti is found in the western part of the main temple. The temple is known as Charidham Mandir or Rameswar Mandir. The murti here is the representation of murtis worshipped at Badrinath, Rameshwar and Dwaraka. Worshipping the four together is equal to visiting the four dhams. Neelamadhab – This murti is located in th

Gulabrao Maharaj Jayanti at Madhan – Amravati in Maharashtra

Gulabrao Maharaj (1881 – 1915) is a famous Hindu saint, writer and poet. Gulabrao Maharaj Jayanti is the birth anniversary of the saint and is observed on the Guru Purnima day. Gulabrao Maharaj Jayanti 2024 date is July 21. Gulabrao Maharaj wrote about 133 books on various subjects, 130 commentaries and about 25,000 stanza in poetry – all this after losing his eyesight at the age of nine. The blind sage is popularly known as Pragya Chakshu Madhur Advaita Acharya Gulabrao Maharaj. The name Pragya Chakshu because of his intellectual eyesight. A saint in the Vedanta school of teaching, he was not bound by any rules – he openly declared that the path of self realization is not through rules but through practice. And a person has to do the practice and should not depend on borrowed knowledge. The 12th century Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj was a great influence on Gulabrao Maharaj. In fact he is believed to have had darshan of Sant Dnyaneshwar. As per Maharashtra Government webs

Sant Mama Dandekar Punyatithi

Sant Mama Dandekar Punyatithi is the death anniversary of Sant Mama Dandekar. It is observed in the Marathi month Ashada. Sant Mama Dandekar Punyatithi 2024 date is July 20. It is observed on the 14 th day of the waxing phase of moon in Ashada month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra . Sant Mama Dandekar was a great saint in the Bhakti tradition that flourished in western parts of India especially in Maharashtra and North Karnataka . His death anniversary as per Marathi tithi is the Ashada Shukla Paksha Chaturdashi Tithi. On the same day Sai Baba Utsav begins in Shirdi.

Story Of Sri Krishna And Rukmini

The story of Sri Krishna and Rukmini is found in the Mahabharata and the Srimad Bhagavad Purana. Sage Narada once revealed that Rukmini was an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi and she was destined to get married to Sri Krishna in the Treta Yuga. Rukmini was the daughter of King Bhishmaka of Vidarbha. The king had five sons and a daughter. Rukmini was the youngest and was noted for her beauty and piety. Rukmi, the eldest of the brothers, had married granddaughter of Jarasandha - king of Magadha and enemy of Sri Krishna Jarasandha, Rukmi and Shishupala (prince of Chedi) had made an alliance to fight Sri Krishna. When Jarasandha asked Rukmi to get her sister married to Shishupala, he readily agreed without consulting Rukmini. He then arranged a namesake Swayamvara in which Sri Krishna was not invited. Rukmini had grown up nursing the dream of getting married to Sri Krishna. She had heard the wonderful stories of Sri Krishna from her father and Sage Narada. However, when Ruk

Book – The Vedas: An Introduction to Hinduism’s Sacred Texts by Roshen Dalal

Book titled “The Vedas: An Introduction to Hinduism’s Sacred Texts provides an exhaustive analysis of Hinduism’s holiest texts. The book is authored by Roshen Dalal – She has composed a couple books on Hinduism the famous being ‘Hinduism: An Alphabetical Guide.’ Arshia Sattar writes in the Indian Express  Apart from separating the Vedas from each other and reminding us that the Rig Veda does merit a different kind of attention, Dalal provides detailed analyses of the content, attitude and spirit of these sacred books, all four of which are considered the foundational texts of what we today call Hinduism.   Although the volume under review is called an “Introduction,” it is far more encyclopedic — it contains a veritable dictionary of Vedic deities, an entirely useful list of tribes and clans, a catalogue of sacrifices and rituals, a description of archaeological sites and what we can glean from them, speculation on how such sites might be related to each other and what they mi

Bipattarini Puja Story – Bipattarini Brata Katha

Bipattarini Puja story is listened on the day of fasting. It is highly meritorious to hear the Brata Katha. Goddess Bipattarini is one who saves people from danger. Legend has it that Sage Narada one day reached the banks of the River Karotowa. Here found many women observing prayer, puja and fasting dedicated to Goddess Bipattarini. They wanted to know why the puja is observed and how the goddess got the name. Sage Narada then explain why Goddess Durga is also known as Bipattarini Maa. During the Samudra Manthan, or churning of the ocean, by the Devas and Asuras to get amrit (ambrosia), the fierce poison Kalakuta appeared. It had the power to destroy the universe. In order to save the universe, Shiva drank the poison Kalakuta after meditating on Goddess Durga. Thus Shiva was able to save the universe with the help of Mother Durga. When Sri Krishna appeared in Vrindavan, it is said that he wore an amulet of Goddess Durga. When ever Krishna faced a danger he was able

How to observe Bipattarini Puja? How to do or perform the Bipattarini Brata?

Here is a brief description on how to observe the Bipattarini Puja. People do the puja on the Tuesday and Saturday day after the Rath Yatra. You can perform the Bipattarini Brata on any one day or on all days. The Brata can be performed by both men and women. The person performing the puja should avoid non-vegetarian food, alcohol and other intoxicating things. On the previous day of the Bipattarini Brata, the person only opts for vegetarian food. On the day of the brata, the person undertaking the fast does not eat any food. The fasting is from morning to next day sunrise. He can have fruits and water. Those having medical issues should avoid fasting. Children and older people should not fast. Pregnant woman also should not fast. Nine different types of fruits are offered to the Goddess as part of the puja. The puja is performed in the evening. The person fasting ties fourteen types of knots on the hand. The women tie knot on left hand and the men tie knot on

Offering Made on First Monday of Shravan Month – First Shravan Somvar Vrat

First Monday of Shravan Month (Somvar Vrat) is very important day. Thousands of devotees observe fasting on the day. A special offering is made on the Monday. The main offering is pouring water on the Shivling. Another important offering made on the first Monday of the Shravan month is a handful of raw rice. As per Padma Purana observing Shravan Somvar Vrat helps in wish fulfillment. As per Shiv Mahapuran observing the Monday fasting in Shravan month is equal visiting all the sacred places. 

Mesha Rashi Tree – Which is the tree associated with Mesha Rashi Born People?

Mesha Rashi Tree is  Lal Chandan or Raktachandan.  There are trees associated with each of the 12 Rashis Hindu Vedic Astrology. People born on each Rashi should worship the particular tree. The tree associated and worshipped by Mesha Rashi Born People is Red Sanders or Red Sandalwood. Red Sanders is the English name and the scientific name is petrocarpus santalinus. The Hindi name of the Mesha Rashi Tree is Lal Chandan or Raktachandan The Telugu name is Rakthachandanamu The Malayalam name is Raktha Chandanam Tamil Name is Siwappuchhandanam - Semmaram In Marathi it is known as Ratanjan. Gujarati - Ratanjali - Tambada Chandana Kannada - Agslue - Honne Bengali - Rakta Chandan Odiya - Rakta Chandan The other known names include Senchandanam. Mesha Rashi born people should plant the Red Sandalwood tree. Water it. They should also protect the Red Sanders tree. The ruler of the Rashi is Kuja or Mangal (Mars). The animal associated with the Rashi is Ram - a

Gangotri and Yamunotri Temples Face Serious Risk of Landslide and Flash Floods

Gangotri and Yamunotri Temples in Uttarakhand are facing serious risks of landslide and flash foods. The damage that was caused due to heavy rain and flash flood in June 2014 is yet to be properly managed. The Tribune reports  The temple committee and priests say a disaster waiting to happen. Cracks have appeared on Kalindi Parvat just above the Yamunotri temple triggering landslides. Boulders hitting the main structure of the temple are giving anxious moments to priests and devotees, says Purshotam Uniyal a priest at the Yamunotri temple.  The situation in Gangotri is the same. The temple here is facing persistent threat from the rubble in the Bhairon Jap nullah. “The Yamunotri temple is facing a double threat — debris falling on the structure from Kalindi Parvat and the exposed ghats of the river due to last year’s flashfloods,” secretary of the Yamunotri temple committee Purshotam Uniyal said. “Landslides on Kalindi Parvat and boulders hitting the temple since 2004 h

Vadapalani Murugan Temple – About Deity and History

Dedicated to Hindu God Muruga, Vadapalani Murugan Temple is located at the Vadapalani area in Chennai. History of the temple indicates that the main temple which in the beginning was with a thatched roof was constructed 125 years ago. The popular rajagopuram of the temple was built in 1925. Vadapalani Murugan Temple History A Muruga devotee named Annaswami Nayakar used to worship Muruga in a hut here. It was a personal worship. But during his meditation and prayers, he used to be divinely inspired and helped people in the area. All his words happened to be true. Soon the hut became an important center of worship. The hut slowly gave way to the present temple. Deities Worshipped in the Temple Muruga Murti is worshipped in the sanctum sanctorum. He is in standing posture and is similar to the deity worshipped in the famous Palani Muruga Temple . The inner chamber of the temple also has murtis of Dakshinamurti, Chandikeswar and Goddess Lakshmi. The tem

Narayana Gayatri Mantra Text in Hindi and English

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Narayana Gayatri Mantra is a powerful prayer. The mantra text in Hindi and English is given below. It should be chanted daily in the morning and evening. The mantra can be chanted on Ekadasi fasting day too. Om Narayanaya Vidhmahe Vasudevaya Dheemahee Tanno Vishnu Prachodayat

Address of the Brahma Temple in Trichy – Contact Details and Map of Temple Dedicated to Hindu Brahma at Tiruchchirapalli District in Tamil Nadu

The famous Brahma Temple at Trichy in Tamil Nadu is one of the rare temples in where pujas and rituals are performed to Hindu God Brahma. Below is the contact details with address and phone number along with map. The main murti worshipped in the temple is Shiva. There are 12 Shivlings in the temple. Apart from this, Vishnu is worshipped in Narasimha form. The original name of the temple is Brahmapureeswarar Temple at Siruganur in Tirupattur. The Executive Officer Arulmigu Brahmmapureeswarar Temple , Siruganur Tirupattur, Pin : 621105 Tiruchchirapalli District Phone: +91- 431 2909 599  The temple is located around 33 km from Trichy Town

Brahmapureeswarar Temple at Tirupattur – Information with Contact Details and Puja Timings

Brahmapureeswarar Temple at Tirupattur in Tiruchchirapalli District in Tamil Nadu is dedicated to Hindu God Shiva. This is a very unique temple as there are 12 Shivling worshipped in the temple. Brahmapureeswarar Temple is again unique as Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva are worshipped in a single shrine. Vishnu is worshipped in the Narasimha Avatar form. Legend has it that Brahma was proud of his creation and brought out a fifth head to have a look at his creation. Shiva was enraged by Brahma creating suffering on earth. Shiva therefore nipped the fifth head of Braham as Kal Bhairav. Brahma repented. Shiva then asked Brahma to worship him in 12 Shivling form at Tirupattur. Guru Bhagvan (Jupiter) has separate shrine here. Contact Details of Brahmapureeswarar Temple at Tirupattur The Executive Officer Arulmigu Brahmmapureeswarar Temple , Tirupattur, Pin : 621105 Tiruchchirapalli District Phone: +91- 431 2909 599  Brahmapureeswarar Temple Puja Timings Mo

Picture of Brass Tantric Yantra

Yantra is an important part of Tantric Worship in India . Below is a picture of Brass Tantric Yantra. The Sanskrit word Yantra is derived from two words – the root ‘yam’ and ‘trana.’ ‘Yan’ means representing ‘the essence of a concept’ and ‘tra’ means ‘liberation from bondage.’ Once the geometric form is composed, it becomes the symbolic representation of Devi or Shakti. Yantra is a visualization of a mantra. They contain geometric forms like circles, triangles, dots, petals, lotus etc. Some Yantra also contain minute figurines. They are both use for good purpose and evil purpose. This particular Yantra is made of metal and is different from the Tantric painted yantras. 

Swami Teunram ji Maharaj Jayanti

Swami Teunram ji Maharaj (1887 – 1943) was a great saint and philosopher of Sindh. In 2024, Swami Teunram ji Maharaj Jayanti is on July 3. It is the 137th birth anniversary of the pious soul. Swami Teunram ji Maharaj childhood was filled with spiritual values. From teenage onwards he dedicated his life seva, satsang and meditation. During this period with his friends and students he formed the Prem Prakash Mandal. The group was engaged in Vedic teachings and service to all living beings. In 1920, Swamji reached Tando Adam and created here a center for learning and spreading the values of Sanatana Dharma. He built the Amrapur Asthan here. Swamiji has written his thoughts in ‘Shri Prem Prakash Granth’ – a poetic composition full of wisdom. Another popular book is ‘Dialogue between Nachiketa and Yamraj’ in prose. Swamiji merged with the supreme truth in 1943. 

Why is Milk Abhishekam Performed in Palani Murugan Temple?

Paal abhishekam or pouring of milk on the murti (idol) of Muruga is an important ritual in all Murugan Temples. The ritual has its origin in the Palani Muruga Temple . But why is the milk abhishekam performed? The murti worshipped at the Palani Murugan Temple is believed to have been created by Siddhar Bogar from nine poisons (Nava Bashanam). He mixed nine deadly poisons and created a medicine which could cure all diseases of Kali Yuga (the present era). But the medicine could not be taken directly. So Siddhar created the murti of Muruga out of the medicine. To extract the medicine from the murti, milk abhishekam is performed. The milk poured on the murti absorbs medicine. It then contains medicinal properties. The milk is then collected by devotees.

Hindu Mantra for Curing Cancer Text in Hindi and English

There is a mantra in Hindu religion that is chanted for curing serious disease like cancer. The mantra is created by adding two syllable before the famous Gayatri mantra. The mantra is given below in Hindi and English. Om Hrim Om Bhur Bhuvah Svah Tat Savitur Varenyam Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat If you find the above mantra to be long or uncomfortable. Then you can also chant the mantra ‘Om Namah Shviaya.’ This can be chanted daily as many number of times. The best cure to cancer is to realize that you are not the body. Chant the mantra and try to realize this supreme truth.