Shaivite Musicians who sing in Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu are referred as Oduvar. They chant the Tevaram and are part of the Panar tradition. Panar are musicians in ancient Tamil Society. The Oduvars have kept the tradition of Tamil music and culture alive for thousands of years. Panars are believed to be among the four ancient tribes of the Tamil Country. Today Tevaram is performed in all important Shiva Temples in Tamil Nadu and also in Shiva Temples across the world that are maintained according to Tamil Culture. The Oduvars play a significant role in preserving and promoting the rich musical and cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu, particularly within the context of Shaivite temples. Rooted in ancient traditions, Oduvars are revered as custodians of Tamil music and spirituality, specifically through their rendition of the Tevaram hymns. Derived from the Panar tradition, Oduvars are integral to the spiritual ambiance of Shiva temples across Tamil Nadu. Their melodious ch...

In Hinduism, dreams are often considered to have deeper meanings, and some believe that bad or disturbing dreams may reflect inner fears, negative energies, or past karmic imprints. To calm the mind and spirit after experiencing a bad dream, prayer and spiritual practices are often used to purify negative vibrations and invoke divine protection. General Approach to Praying After a Bad Dream Calm the Mind and Center Yourself : Upon waking from a bad dream, it’s important to first calm your mind. You can sit in a quiet place, close your eyes, and focus on slow, deep breathing. Take a Bath : In Hinduism, purity is often linked to physical cleanliness. Taking a bath with pure water, especially early in the morning, helps to cleanse both the body and mind. Light a Diya or Incense : Lighting a diya (lamp) or incense in front of a deity helps purify the environment and create a sacred atmosphere. Offering Water (Arghya) : Offering water to the Sun (Surya) at dawn is considered auspicious and ...

Fasting (Vrata) is an important aspect of Hindu spirituality, symbolizing devotion, self-discipline, and purification. After fasting, prayers are considered especially potent, as the mind and body are more receptive to divine energy. Here's a guide on how to offer prayers after fasting in the Hindu tradition, along with some simple prayers, puja steps, and mantras dedicated to various deities like Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, Saraswati, Vishnu, Shiva, Krishna, and Durga. Steps to Perform Puja After Fasting : Cleanse Yourself : After fasting, it's essential to take a bath to purify yourself physically and spiritually. This is an act of purifying the body before the sacred act of worship. Prepare the Puja Area : Light an oil lamp (diya) and incense sticks. Arrange flowers, fruits, sweets, and water (in a Kalash or any vessel) as offerings to the deities. Decorate the altar with fresh flowers and place pictures or idols of the deities. Place a small offering of food (Naivedya) p...

In Hinduism, prayer is an important part of daily life and is often done after meetings, events, or other significant gatherings to seek blessings, express gratitude, and ensure prosperity and success. After a meeting, offering a simple prayer to key deities can bring peace, harmony, and wisdom to guide future endeavors. 1. Significance of Prayer After a Meeting Prayer after a meeting signifies the closing of a fruitful session with divine blessings, asking for success in the decisions made, and ensuring peace among participants. It also reflects humility, devotion, and a desire for spiritual guidance. 2. Ideal Deities to Worship After a Meeting Lord Ganesha : The remover of obstacles and the god of beginnings. Invoking Ganesha ensures that all hurdles are removed, and the decisions made in the meeting lead to success. Goddess Saraswati : The goddess of wisdom and learning. Praying to her helps in gaining clarity of thought, eloquence, and wisdom to execute the plans discussed in the m...

The story of the origin of Uchchaihshravas is found in the Bhagavata Purana. This divine horse appeared during the churning of ocean (Samudra Manthan) by Devas (demi gods) and Asuras (demons). Uchchaihshravas means one with long ears or one that neighs loudly. Uchchaihshravas is white like the moon and has seven heads. This flying horse was taken by Indra, the king of Devas. It is also the king of the horses. The color of the tail of Uchchaihshravas was the reason for Vinata and Garuda becoming the slave of Kadru and her serpent sons. Vinata was sure that the tail of Uchchaihshravas was white but Kadru said it was black. After a bitter argument it was decided that whoever was wrong would become the slave of the winner. Kadru’s serpent sons hanged to the tail of Uchchaihshravas and made it appear black, when in reality the tail was white. Thus Vinata and her son Garuda became the slaves of Kadru and her sons. Another story has it that Goddess Lakshmi once happened t...

Book titled ‘The Seduction of Shiva: Tales of Life and Love’ is compiled and translated by Aditya Narayan Dhairyasheel Haksar. The stories of love and longing from various Sanskrit texts including Puranas are part of the book. Indian Express writes  ”All great literature deals with the theme of the relation between the sexes and I have tried to bring together a collection of stories covering as big a period as possible,” Haksar said during the book release here recently. The first story in the anthology talks about how the god Shiva is seduced by Mohini, the female form assumed by Vishnu. In another tale, Urvashi curses the Pandava prince Arjuna when he rejects her advances. The protagonist in another story pursues pleasure first as a man and then as a woman. “The stories in the ‘Seduction of Shiva’ have been taken over a over 1500 years let me drew material from not only from what is called secular writing but also literature traditionally regarded as scriptural like ta...

In Hindu tradition, menstruation is seen as a natural biological process, and after the menstrual period ends, women generally perform certain rituals to "purify" themselves before resuming regular religious practices, such as puja (worship). The following is a detailed guide on how to pray and perform puja after your period, with a focus on worshiping powerful goddesses like Kamakhya Devi, Goddess Parvati, Goddess Bagalamukhi, Tripurasundari, and Sheetala Mata. 1. Purification Ritual (Shuddhi Vidhi) : After the menstrual period ends, many women in Hindu culture perform a simple purification ritual before resuming their religious duties. This involves taking a bath and reciting certain mantras to purify the mind, body, and spirit. Steps for Purification : Take a bath : Use clean water and, if possible, add a few drops of Ganga Jal (holy water from the Ganges) for spiritual purification. Recite the following mantra to purify yourself mentally and spiritually: Mantra : ॐ अपवित...

In Hinduism, when a person feels guilt or remorse after committing a sin (Paap), they often seek forgiveness from the divine through prayer, rituals (Puja), and by practicing self-purification. The act of praying after sinning aims to cleanse one's soul, ask for divine forgiveness, and return to the path of righteousness (Dharma). The religion emphasizes self-purification, devotion (Bhakti), and sincere repentance (Prayaschitta) as methods to overcome sin. Steps to Pray After Sinning: Self-Reflection and Repentance (Prayaschitta): The first step is recognizing the sin and feeling sincere repentance for the actions. One must accept their mistakes and resolve not to repeat them. Purification (Snana and Pranayama): Take a bath to purify your body and mind, symbolizing the washing away of negativity and impurities. Perform deep breathing or Pranayama to center your mind. Setting up a Puja Altar: Arrange a clean space with idols or pictures of your chosen deity (Vishnu, Shiva, Durga, G...

Sanatan Hinduism Radio in Houston in USA completed 20 years in 2014. The radio program named “Voice of Sanatan Hinduism” was started in 1994 on internet and the radio program is available every Sunday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The program attempts to make people aware of the riches of the Veda and Sanatan Dharma by sharing Vedic concepts of rituals, Upanishad, Bhagavad Gita, Vedic Music, Vedic Yoga, Vedic Meditation, Vedic Astrology and the Vedic Way of Life, popularly known as Hinduism. The radio programs are without any commercials and advertisements and are supported by donors, well-wishers and listeners. You can find more about the radio here. (the website no longer available)

 In Hinduism, prayer and devotion after surgery hold a significant place, as they are seen as means of invoking divine blessings for health, strength, and recovery. After a surgery, devotees often turn to specific deities associated with healing, well-being, and protection. Praying after surgery can include offering thanks for successful surgery, seeking divine protection, and asking for a swift and full recovery. Here’s a detailed guide on how to pray after surgery according to Hindu traditions, including simple prayers, mantras, puja steps, and information on the ideal deities to worship: Deities for Healing After Surgery Lord Dhanvantari – The God of Medicine and Health in Hinduism. Dhanvantari is considered an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and is revered as the divine physician. Ashwini Kumaras – Twin gods who are the divine healers in the Vedas. They are often invoked for physical and spiritual healing. Lord Pashupati Shiva – A form of Lord Shiva, the "Lord of Life." Sh...

The Bhagavad Gita, often referred to simply as the Gita, is a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata. It's a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and the god Krishna, who serves as his charioteer. At its core, the Bhagavad Gita addresses the moral and philosophical dilemmas faced by individuals, particularly Arjuna, who finds himself conflicted about his duty as a warrior and the righteousness of engaging in battle against his own relatives and teachers. Through the discourse between Arjuna and Krishna, the Gita imparts timeless wisdom and guidance on various aspects of life, including duty, righteousness, devotion, and the nature of reality. One of the key teachings of the Bhagavad Gita is the concept of Dharma, which encompasses one's duty, righteousness, and moral obligation. It emphasizes the importance of fulfilling one's duties and responsibilities in life, regardless of the circumstances, while maintaining a sense of detachment from the ...

Comprehensive Guide to Worship Adiyogi in Hinduism Adiyogi, also known as Lord Shiva, is considered the first yogi and the embodiment of supreme consciousness in Hinduism. Worshipping Adiyogi brings peace, enlightenment, and inner transformation. In this guide, we will walk through the steps to perform a simple yet meaningful puja for Adiyogi, emphasizing eco-friendly and traditional practices. 1. Preparation for the Puja Cleanliness Clean the puja area thoroughly. Clean the house, especially the space where the puja will take place. Take a bath and wear clean, simple clothing. It is important to approach the puja with purity and focus. Time The most auspicious times to worship Adiyogi are early morning during Brahma Muhurta (4:00 AM to 6:00 AM) or during Pradosha Kala (sunset), as these are spiritually charged times for connecting with Lord Shiva. Clothing Color Traditionally, white is preferred when worshipping Adiyogi, symbolizing purity and peace. You can also wear light-colored or...

The tale of Brishabhadwajeshwar Shiva at Kapildhara in Varanasi is deeply entrenched in Hindu mythology, carrying profound significance for devotees. It revolves around the divine encounter between Lord Shiva and Sage Kapila Muni, set against the backdrop of Kapildhara, a sacred site revered for its spiritual energy. According to legend, Shiva graced Kapila Muni's ashram with his presence, prompting a celestial atmosphere of reverence and awe. In a gesture of profound devotion and hospitality, Kapila Muni's divine cow showered Shiva with her milk, an act of pure adoration and homage. Overwhelmed by this divine offering, Kapila Muni bathed Shiva in the sacred milk, an act symbolizing purification and divine communion. As the milk cascaded from the cow and pooled on the earth, it formed a serene pond, now known as Kapildhara Khund, which became imbued with the sanctity of this divine encounter. This tranquil pond stands as a testament to the profound connection between the ea...

The 17th century Mewar Ramayana Paintings is one of the most beautiful manuscripts in the world. The book was split between India and England. Now the book the British Library and CSMVS Museum in Mumbai has reunited the book digitally. You can view the digital book online for free. Mewar Ramayana paintings were created by several artists, whose exquisite and intricate paintings of gods, battles, landscapes and animals are among the finest examples of Indian art. Alongside the illustrations are over 800 pages of text in Sanskrit. The website no longer displays the paintings.

A Comprehensive Guide to Praying During Aadi Month in Hinduism Aadi Month , which typically falls between mid-July and mid-August in the Tamil calendar, is a highly auspicious period dedicated to the worship of the divine feminine, particularly Goddess Amman, a manifestation of Shakti. This period is marked by rituals and prayers aimed at spiritual growth, prosperity, and the well-being of families. Devotees pay special attention to their prayers and rituals during this month to seek blessings for abundance, protection, and health. Below is a detailed guide to observing puja and prayers during the Aadi month, while incorporating eco-friendly practices and traditional methods. 1. Cleanliness and Preparation Before beginning any prayer or puja, maintaining personal and environmental cleanliness is important in Hindu rituals. It is considered a way to purify both the body and mind. Personal Cleanliness : Take a bath early in the morning, preferably before sunrise. Wear fresh, clean clothe...

Tilak Vrat is annually observed on the first day during the waxing phase of moon in Chaitra Month. It is observed on the Hindu New Year day in North India . In 2026, Tilak Vrat date is March 19. The greatness of the Tilak Vrat is mentioned in the last chapter (Uttara Parva) of the Bhavishya Purana. The Vrat is also referred as Samvatsar Pratipada Vrat as it is observed on the first day of the New Year – Chaitra Shukla Paksha Pratipada. By observing this vrat one can get rid of problems associated with ghost, Pishach and other supernatural beings. The vrat is also suggested to those have horoscope related problems due to the bad position of the planets. On Vrat day a devotee should wake up in the morning take bath and offer prayers to Ishta Devata. Only vegetarian food is eaten on the day. The person has to read scriptures. Prayers dedicated to the person’s favorite deity can be chanted on the day. Making food donation on the day is considered highly meritorious.

A Comprehensive Guide to Worship on Aadi Perukku in Hinduism Aadi Perukku, celebrated on the 18th day of the Tamil month Aadi, is an auspicious day dedicated to honoring water bodies, particularly rivers, for their life-sustaining importance. This festival is a prayer for abundance, fertility, and prosperity, particularly by farmers and people living near rivers. Here's a detailed guide on how to perform Aadi Perukku puja using eco-friendly and traditional methods, ensuring simplicity and devotion. 1. Importance of Aadi Perukku Thanksgiving to Nature: Aadi Perukku is dedicated to thanking nature, especially rivers, for nourishing crops and providing water. Prayers for Prosperity: It is a day to pray for the well-being of family, agricultural prosperity, and wealth. Honoring Feminine Energy: The day is also significant for invoking the blessings of goddesses like Durga, Lakshmi, and Parvati, symbolizing fertility and abundance. 2. Preparing for the Puja a. Cleanliness & Time ...

Arogya Vrat is observed on the first day during the waxing phase of moon in Chaitra month as per traditional North India calendar. The vrat is dedicated to Surya. In 2026, Arogya Vrat is observed on March 19. The vrat is observed for good health. The important ritual on the day includes offering prayers to Surya, chanting of Gayatri Mantra and taking bath morning and evening with local herbs. Devotees only take hot vegetarian food on the day. Food is donated on the day to poor children. It must be noted that Arogya Vrat is mainly observed on the Magh Shukla Paksha Saptami day – seventh day of Magh month (January – February). This particular vrat observed on Chaitra Shukla Paksha Pratipada is only observed in North India .

When we speak about mystical experience, we have an idea about something far away, meant for an ascetic somewhere. This is absolutely wrong! Anybody, from any walk of life, can have a mystical experience because the profound philosophy of Vedanta tells us that the divine spark is in every one of us. We can come in touch with it, manifest it, and in the light of that truth we can deal with other people in a happy way. Therefore a mystical experience must walk hand-in hand with work and with the human relationships we establish. Swami Vivekananda calls this practical Vedanta. What was the privilege of a few in the past will become the privilege of everyone in society when people understand it correctly. This is the truth, but unfortunately we neglect it. In the future we should put a stop to this sort of carelessness. When I work in society, I can work from my ego and create friction with others, or I can manifest a little of my divine nature and feel oneness with others. The...

Ujjain Chintaman Ganesh Mandir is a very popular temple dedicated to Ganesha in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. On every Wednesday in Chaitra Month a fair and yatra is held in the temple. Chaitra Month 2026 is from March 4 to April 2. During the Jatra, the murti of Chintaman Ganesh is adorned with flowers, natural colors, sandal paste, vermillion and leaves. The temple is located at the Chintaman Jawasiya village, which is around 5 km from the temple. The temple is famous for a Swayambhu Ganesh murti.

A collection of teachings from Hindu scriptures on everlasting happiness. The person who is intelligent and wise and who knows what defects lie hidden in the objects [of enjoyment], knows how to free himself from the bonds of desire. Only such a person is fit to tread the path that leads to liberation. (Sarva-Vedanta-Siddhanta-Sarasangraha, 61) The intelligent man gives up happiness and sorrow by developing concentration of mind on the Atman and thereby meditating on the ancient Deity who is inscrutable, lodged inaccessibly, located in the intellect, and seated in the midst of heart. (Katha Upanishad, 1.2.12) Everlasting happiness is for those, and not for others, who are wise and realize as seated in their intellect him who is one and independent, who makes diverse the single seed of the many actionless (beings). (Shvetashvatara Upanishad, 6.12) Hinduism offers various teachings on achieving everlasting happiness, often through spiritual practices and philosophical insigh...