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

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

Overcoming the grief of a father's death can be deeply challenging, but Hinduism offers numerous spiritual, emotional, and practical approaches to help navigate this difficult time. In Hindu philosophy, death is seen as a natural transition, rather than an end. With this perspective, rituals, mantras, and devotion play a central role in the healing process. Below is an expanded exploration of Hindu practices, stories, and scripture-based guidance for coping with a father’s passing. Spiritual Understanding in Hinduism In Hinduism, death is not viewed as the end but as part of the soul’s continuous journey through samsara (the cycle of birth and rebirth). The soul (Atman) is eternal, and the Bhagavad Gita teaches that the body is temporary. Thus, a father's passing can be seen as his soul’s journey toward moksha (liberation). Bhagavad Gita Quote: "For the soul, there is neither birth nor death at any time. The soul has not come into being, does not come into being, and will ...

Overcoming failure in exams from the perspective of Hinduism involves understanding the deeper principles behind success and failure, seeking divine intervention, adopting practical daily approaches, and finding inspiration in scriptures and stories. Hindu teachings encourage perseverance, self-belief, and devotion to specific deities that embody wisdom, courage, and success. Here are some detailed practical solutions, mantras, and scriptural insights to help one overcome failure in exams. 1. Divine Guidance: Worship and Mantras Certain deities in Hinduism are specifically associated with removing obstacles, bestowing wisdom, and providing inner strength. Here’s how they can help, along with mantras to chant daily for success. Lord Ganesha (Remover of Obstacles) Lord Ganesha is worshipped at the beginning of any endeavor, including education. He symbolizes intellect, wisdom, and success. If failure is seen as an obstacle, Lord Ganesha can help remove it, guiding the devotee toward suc...

Ishwara Gita is found in the Kurma Purana  –  Shiva teaches about the Supreme Soul to Santakumara and other Rishis. The Ishwara Gita contains many profound teachings on spirituality and self-realization. Here are some key teachings from the Ishwara Gita: Know that the soul is of a pure and subtle nature, unaffected by external or internal object; it is invisible, but manifests itself as Purusha, Prakriti, Mahadeshwara and Time. Through the supreme soul (Paramatman) this universe is produced and annihilated; for it is the cause of Maya which delusively displays an endless variety of apparently exiting forms. But the supreme soul itself neither creates nor is created; it is neither earth nor sea; fire nor air; nor hearing, touch, sight, smell nor taste; it has neither feet, nor hands, nor other organs; it neither acts nor suffers, for it is neither Purusha nor Prakriti, nor Maya: for, as the mind is distinct from the thoughts which arise in it, so is the supreme soul di...

Bhakti (devotion) is a key path in Hinduism that fosters a deep, personal connection with the Divine. It's more than a form of worship; it's a spiritual practice that transforms one's heart, mind, and soul. Through surrender, love, and devotion, Bhakti leads to inner peace and spiritual growth. Let’s explore the spiritual, physical, mental, and social benefits of Bhakti, practical approaches, and mantras that can aid in living a Bhakti-centered life. 10 Spiritual and Holistic Benefits of Bhakti Inner Peace and Calmness Bhakti helps develop mental tranquility by reducing stress and anxiety. Devotional practices often involve meditative prayers, which calm the mind and bring inner peace. Through surrender, one learns to release worries to the Divine. Emotional Healing Through love and devotion, Bhakti can heal emotional wounds. Feelings of anger, jealousy, and fear are gradually replaced with compassion, forgiveness, and love for others, fostering emotional resilience. Puri...

Bhang, a preparation of cannabis leaves and flowers, holds a special place in Hinduism, particularly in religious and spiritual contexts. It is traditionally consumed during festivals such as Maha Shivaratri and Holi , and is often associated with Lord Shiva, who is considered the deity of transformation, destruction, and transcendence. Bhang is believed to have spiritual benefits that can help devotees in their religious practices, bringing them closer to divine consciousness. 10 Spiritual Benefits of Bhang Facilitates Meditation and Contemplation : Bhang is believed to help quiet the mind, making it easier for individuals to focus and meditate. This heightened concentration can aid in deeper spiritual contemplation, allowing devotees to connect with their inner selves and the divine. Promotes Detachment : The consumption of bhang can create a sense of detachment from worldly concerns, helping individuals transcend material attachments and focus on higher spiritual truths. Enhances D...

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

The story of Yadagirigutta Lakshmi Narasimha temple is one of penance and devotion. In Treta Yuga, there lived a sage named Yadarishi, the son of the illustrious sage Rishyasringa and Santa Devi. With the blessings of Anjaneya (Hanuman), Yadarishi performed intense penance inside a cave on a hill located between Bhongir (Bhuvanagiri) and Raigiri, which is now in the Nalgonda district of Telangana, India. His deep devotion pleased Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who appeared before him in five distinct forms: Sri Jwala Narasimha, Sri Yogananda, Sri Gandabherunda, Sri Ugra, and Sri Lakshmi Narasimha. These five forms, known as Pancha Narasimha Kshetram, are worshipped in the temple today, having manifested into finely sculpted idols. Another legend recounts that Sriman Narayana, pleased with Yadarishi's penance, sent Anjaneya to guide the sage to a holy spot. At this spot, the Lord appeared as Sri Lakshmi Narasimha. This location, marked by a temple at the foot of t...

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

The history of Hinduism in Trinidad and Tobago is a rich tapestry woven with the migration of Indian indentured laborers, their cultural resilience, and the transformation of their religious practices in a new land. Here is an overview of this history: Early Beginnings Indentured Labor System (1845-1917) Arrival of Indian Laborers: Hinduism in Trinidad and Tobago began with the arrival of Indian indentured laborers between 1845 and 1917. They were brought by the British to work on sugar plantations after the abolition of slavery. First Ship: The first ship, the Fatel Razack, arrived in Trinidad on May 30, 1845, carrying the first group of Indian laborers. Establishment of Hindu Practices Preservation of Traditions Cultural Continuity: Despite the harsh conditions and efforts by colonial authorities to suppress their culture, the Indian laborers managed to preserve their Hindu traditions, languages (Bhojpuri and Hindi), and religious practices. Temple Construction: Ini...

In Hinduism and related spiritual practices, the Sacral Chakra (Swadhisthana) is the second chakra located in the lower abdomen, about two inches below the navel. This chakra is associated with emotions, creativity, sensuality, relationships, and the element of water. Healing and balancing the sacral chakra can have profound spiritual, physical, mental, and social benefits. Here’s an expanded view: Spiritual Benefits of Healing the Sacral Chakra: Emotional Balance: The sacral chakra governs emotions, helping you process feelings more calmly and compassionately. Healing this chakra helps you release suppressed emotions and emotional blockages, allowing for emotional fluidity and inner peace. Enhanced Creativity: Swadhisthana is closely linked to creativity. When balanced, you can access higher levels of inspiration, artistic expression, and innovative ideas. Your imagination becomes more vivid, and your ability to think "outside the box" increases. Increased Intuition: Healin...

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

Bathing with medicinal or sacred herbs is an ancient practice across many cultures, including Hinduism, where various plants and herbs are considered spiritually purifying and energizing. Scent leaf, though more commonly associated with African traditions (especially in Nigeria), shares many qualities with herbs used in Hindu purification practices, such as Tulsi (holy basil), neem, and others. In Hinduism, herbs like these are used not only for physical benefits but also for spiritual cleansing, promoting balance, and aligning the mind, body, and soul. Here are 10 spiritual and practical benefits of bathing with scent leaf, alongside its impact on physical, mental, and social well-being, and guidance on integrating it into daily life with relevant mantras. 1. Spiritual Cleansing and Aura Purification Scent leaf is believed to have cleansing properties, removing negative energies from the aura. Bathing with it helps dispel negativity and brings a sense of spiritual rejuvenation. In Hin...

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

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

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

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

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

In Hinduism, breastfeeding is not only seen as a vital act of nurturing but is deeply intertwined with spiritual, mental, and social dimensions. It is regarded as a sacred duty of the mother, contributing to the holistic development of the child in both physical and spiritual realms. Below is an in-depth exploration of the spiritual benefits of breastfeeding along with practical applications, lesser-known facts, and relevant mantras (excluding the Gayatri mantra): Spiritual Benefits of Breastfeeding in Hinduism Divine Duty (Dharma) : Breastfeeding is considered a mother’s dharma (sacred duty) in Hinduism, as it is her responsibility to nourish the child both physically and spiritually. The act is compared to offering divine nectar, just like a goddess (like Yashoda feeding Krishna). It reflects the divine nurturing power of motherhood. Strengthens Mother-Child Bond : Breastfeeding enhances the emotional and spiritual connection between mother and child. This bond is seen as an essenti...

 In Hinduism, maintaining virginity, particularly before marriage, is considered a spiritual practice that aligns with purity of mind, body, and soul. Virginity is valued as a form of Brahmacharya , or celibacy, which is seen as essential for spiritual growth, self-discipline, and focus. The practice of Brahmacharya is deeply connected to maintaining one's energy (Ojas), which in Hindu philosophy is believed to be conserved through celibacy and directed toward spiritual awakening. Here are 12 spiritual benefits of virginity in Hinduism, along with practical solutions, importance, and its effects on well-being and personality. 1. Conservation of Vital Energy (Ojas) Benefit : Virginity helps conserve Ojas, which is the vital life force that is believed to enhance spiritual growth, creativity, and mental clarity. Practical Solution : Practice meditation, yoga, and pranayama to preserve and elevate Ojas. 2. Enhanced Spiritual Growth Benefit : By abstaining from sexual activity, individ...