Nabadwip is a famous Vaishnava pilgrim center associated with Hinduism. It is located in West Bengal and is one of the important places associated with Sri Krishna Chaitanya, the founder of the Bengal School of Vaishnavism. Mayapur associated with ISKCON is located across the river from Nabadwip. Popularly known as Nadia, Nabadwip consists of nine islands. Four of the islands are on the eastern bank of Bhagirathi and the rest five are on the western bank. It is believed that when Bhagirathi River changed its course and a huge island emerged on the east of the river and the new island was called Nabadwip. Nabadwip was the capital of Bengal during the 12 th century and it was a center of Sanskrit and Hindu philosophy, especially of Neo Logic School of philosophy. There are more than 150 temples in the region. Dola Purnima and Rash Purnima are the important festivals in the region.

The tree that is used to make the new murti (idol) of Jagannath during Nabakalebara at Puri   Jagannath   Temple  in Orissa has to pass numerous tests. The neem tree used to make the murti is referred as Daru. The selection of daru is made as per the instructions mentioned in the pothi (manuscript) which is with the Daitapatis. Darus are no ordinary neem trees. Since Jagannath is dark, the tree from which his murti is to be carved has to be dark. The tree should have four principal branches, symbolizing the four arms of Narayana. However, as Jagannath’s siblings are fair, the wood for their idols are lighter in colour. The Jagannath tree should have four principal branches, symbolizing the four arms of Narayana. The daru will be collected from the Neem tree having the symbols of Sankha, Chakra, Gada and Padma on it. The Neem tree should be close to a riverbank or a pond and there must be a termite mound or a crematorium near it. The tree should be located near

Mahalaxmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and fortune, is revered by Hindus across the globe. Worshiping her is believed to bring material abundance, inner peace, and spiritual growth. To ensure that her blessings flow into our lives, it is essential to follow the rituals with purity of mind, heart, and surroundings. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to worship Mahalaxmi, focusing on eco-friendly practices and traditional values. 1. Preparation for Puja Cleanliness : Cleanliness is the first step in worship. The area where the puja is performed should be neat and tidy. One should take a bath, wear clean clothes, and maintain cleanliness in both physical and mental states. Time : The best time to perform Mahalaxmi Puja is during Pradosh Kaal , which is the time after sunset and before nightfall. Fridays and Purnima (Full Moon) days are considered particularly auspicious for Lakshmi worship. However, Diwali, especially the night of Lakshmi Pujan , is the most significant day. Clot

Durdureshwar is one of the manifestations of Shiva. It is one of the 84 forms of Shiva worshiped in Ujjain. Information about this form of Shiva is found in the Skanda Purana. Durdureshwar Mahadev Shivling is worshipped near Ujjain . Information about Durdureshwar Shiva is rare and what little we know is found in the Skanda Purana. Durdureshwar Mahadev is one of the 84 Mahadev temples in Ujjain . It is the last temple on the list of the 84 Shivalayas in Ujjain. The shrine is located in the Jayathal Village near Ujjain . The deity is worshipped for attaining peace and prosperity.

Nabakalebara is the change of the murtis worshipped in the world famous  Puri   Jagannath   Temple  in Orissa. The murti is carved from a neem tree and the location of the tree is revealed through a dream – an order by Goddess Maa Mangala. The first phase for the search of the neem tree ends at the Maa Mangala temple at Kakatpur. Important rituals are performed here. This includes Jalaabhisheka and majana of the Goddess. Chanting of the hymns from Nrusingha mantra and Swapnadesha mantra. The Daitapati servitors will sleep before the goddess for her Swapnadesha – order in dream – for the location of the Daru – the neem tree to carve the murti of Jagannath. After getting the order through the dream, the daitapatis will have a meeting and a team will go in the direction to the find the tree. Related  Banajaga Yatra – In Search of the Neem Tree to Carve the Puri Jagannath Murti (idols) in Orissa Puri Jagannath Temple to have New Idols (Murtis) of Presiding Deities in

The famous Shiva Temple Avudaiyarkoil in Pudukkottai District in Tamil Nadu is closely associated with Saint Manickavasagar who is one of the four important Saints of Shaivism out of 63 Nayanmars (63 important saints of Shiva in Tamil Nadu). He is believed to have had darshan of Shiva at Avudaiyar Koil. Manickavasagar got initiated by Shiva to write the eighth Thirumurai, Thiruvachagam, and was titled Manickavasagar at Avudaiyar Koil. You can read more about the saint and the temple here in this article in the Hindu  As Manickavasagar, his original name being Thiruvadavoorar, embraced gnana margam for salvation, the Avudaiyar temple has been cast in this fashion. Surprisingly, the temple does not have nandi, flagstaff, balipeetam and Somaskandar is conspicuously absent. And instead of playing nadaswaram, melam and berigai, the blowing of conch, ringing of bell and thiruchinnam is in vogue. In the garba griha, the banam (shaft-like portion) of Siva lingam is not found. Inst

Worshiping Khandoba, a significant deity in Hinduism, particularly in Maharashtra, is a vibrant and rich tradition. Khandoba is considered a manifestation of Lord Shiva and is often associated with victory, prosperity, and the destruction of evil. This comprehensive guide covers the essential aspects of worshiping Khandoba, including cleanliness, timing, attire, puja items, simple puja steps, prasad preparation, mantras, prayers, and the conclusion of the puja. 1. Cleanliness and Preparation Personal Cleanliness : Before performing puja, ensure you are bathed and in a state of purity. It is customary to wear fresh clothes, preferably white or bright colors like yellow or red, symbolizing purity and auspiciousness. Place of Worship : Choose a clean and quiet area for the puja. Ensure the space is free of clutter and decorated with flowers or eco-friendly materials. Eco-Friendly Practices : Use biodegradable items for decorations and worship. Natural materials for the altar and offerings

Navadhanya are the nine grains that are offered to the Navagrahas. They are also part of other Hindu pujas and rituals. The Navdanya includes Bengal Gram, Wheat, Horse Gram, Green Gram, Rice, White beans, Black Sesame seeds, Chickpeas, Black Gram. Bengal Gram is offered to Jupiter or Guru or Brihaspati. Wheat is offered to Sun or Surya Horse Gram is offered to Ketu Green Gram is offered to Mercury or Budh Rice is offered to moon or Chandra or Soma White beans is offered to Venus or Shukra Black Sesame is offered to Shani or Saturn Chickpeas or Chickpea is offered to Mars or Mangal Black Gram is offered to Rahu In some regions the Navadanya are rice, wheat, thoor dal, moong dal, chana dal, rajma, sesame, urud dal, horse gram. You may also like to read Nabapatrika in Durga Puja - Nine Leaves used in Durga Puja

Talk about Goddess Kali and the image that comes to our mind is that of a fierce woman with blood dripping tongue. But why does Goddess Kali drink blood? Demons or Asuras through severe austerities obtain boons from Brahma. The demons often try to attain boons of immortality but Brahma often denies it. Instead the demons are given death under specific circumstances. The Asura Raktabeeja obtained a boon from Brahma that every drop of blood that falls on earth from his body will produce more demons.   The Devas could no longer fight Rakthabeeja and were on the receiving end. Finally, Mother Durga appeared as the terrifying Goddess Kali, who sucked up every blood that fell from Rakthabeeja. After destroying Rakthabeeja, Goddess Kali remained blood thirsty and a horror to humans. Finally, Lord Shiva had to come down to earth to control her. This is the reason why images of Goddess Kali are shown with blood red protruding tongue.

In Hindu mythology, the goddesses Narasimhi and Indrani hold significant places in the pantheon of female deities. Both are associated with powerful forces of protection and war, embodying fierce aspects of femininity. Despite sharing roles within the cosmic battle against evil, they are distinct in origin, symbolism, worship, and relevance in modern times. This comparison will explore these two goddesses in greater detail, highlighting their individual importance, modern-day relevance, differences and similarities, symbolism, and how they compare with similar goddesses from other cultures. 1. Origin and Background Narasimhi is considered one of the Sapta Matrikas (seven mother goddesses), each representing a fierce aspect of a male god. Narasimhi is the feminine counterpart of Lord Narasimha , the lion-headed avatar of Vishnu who defeated the demon Hiranyakashipu. As such, Narasimhi inherits the qualities of courage, destruction of evil, and divine fury, often depicted in her lion

"Good Girl Syndrome" often refers to the cultural conditioning where women are taught to suppress their authentic selves in order to conform to societal expectations of being "good," "obedient," and "pleasing." This can lead to self-doubt, feelings of inadequacy, and an internal conflict between one’s true desires and what society deems appropriate. Overcoming this requires a journey of reclaiming one's power, embracing self-expression, and breaking free from limiting beliefs. Hinduism, particularly through its vast pantheon of goddesses, provides potent spiritual and psychological tools to transcend such limitations. The goddesses you mentioned—Kali, Durga, Baglamukhi, Chinnamasta, Matangi, Kalaratri, and Bhairavi—are fierce embodiments of divine feminine power, fearlessness, and transformation. Let’s explore how these goddesses, along with relevant stories, mantras, and practices, can help overcome "Good Girl Syndrome." 1. Goddess

Goddess Girija is one among the numerous names of Goddess Parvati. She is known as Girija as she is the daughter of the king of Mountains Himavan, who is also known as Himavat or Giri or Parvata Raja. Legend has it that Giri, the king of the mountains, once performed intense austerities to fulfill the desire that Mother Goddess should be born as his daughter. He performed the tapas for several years and one day went to take bath in the Padmateertha (Lake) in the  Himalayas . There he saw a very huge lotus with thousands of petals. Middle of the lotus was a new born who was happily playing. King Giri went into the lake and took up the new born. It was a girl child with a divine aura. Giri showed the child to his wife Mena Devi who was ecstatic. They adopted the child and named the baby Parvati. Giri means hill or mountain and the daughter of King Giri came to be known as Girija.

Overcoming Globus Sensation: Hinduism Solutions and Practical Approaches Globus sensation , also known as "lump in the throat" feeling, is a common condition. It’s often linked to stress, anxiety, or digestive issues, where people feel like there’s something stuck in their throat without any actual obstruction. Hinduism offers various spiritual, psychological, and lifestyle practices to overcome this sensation, based on ancient wisdom that addresses both body and mind holistically. Let’s explore mantras , prayers , and rituals connected to deities like Saraswati , Mookambika , Dhanvantari , Ashwini Kumaras , Rudra Shiva , and Ganesha . We will also look at practical solutions to incorporate into your day-to-day life. 1. Mantras and Spiritual Practices Goddess Saraswati – The Divine of Speech and Knowledge Saraswati is the goddess of wisdom, speech, and clarity of thought. Since globus sensation can often be worsened by mental stress or communication issues, worshipping her c

Ram Ghat is the most important ghat on Shipra River near Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain . Sandhya Aarti is performed on the Ram Ghat every evening. Special pujas are performed here which is dedicated to Shipra River . Priests offer flowers, incense, sandalwood and vermillion. The Ghat is famous as there are murtis of idols of Pishachamukteshwar, Guheshwar, Dundeshwar, Damarukeshwar, Aruneshwar and Ardhanarishwar. The Datta Akhara located on Ram Ghat is used by the Naga Sadhus during the Ujjain Kumbha Mela.

 In Hinduism, gluttony, or excessive indulgence in food, is viewed as one of the obstacles on the path to self-control and spiritual growth. Overcoming this tendency requires a holistic approach, integrating spiritual practices, discipline, devotion, and wisdom. Hindu scriptures provide numerous teachings, mantras, and stories to aid in controlling gluttony, emphasizing self-restraint, contentment, and offering reverence to food as a divine gift. Below are detailed steps, mantras, deities, stories, and practical solutions to help overcome gluttony according to Hindu philosophy. 1. Understanding Gluttony in Hinduism Gluttony is tied to the concept of tamas , one of the three gunas (qualities), which leads to inertia, ignorance, and overindulgence. Excessive eating and craving for sensual pleasures can cloud the mind and prevent progress on the spiritual path. Moderation ( mitahara ) is considered essential to maintain balance in body, mind, and soul. By practicing self-control and offe

Banajaga Yatra marks the beginning of Nabakalebara – the change of murtis worshipped in the Puri Jagannath Temple in Orissa. Banajaga Yatra 2015 begins on March 29. The procession in search of the neem tree to carve the Puri Jagannath Murtis (idols) begins on the day. The yatra is undertaken from Puri Jagannath Temple to Maa Mangala Temple at Kakatpur via Konark. Banajaga Yatra exercise begins after an offering to Lord Jagannath in the Puri Jagannath Temple on March 29. The main offering is a Agyan Mala it is specially prepared and is 12 feet long. The procession is led by the Pati Mahapatra family who receives the Agyan Mala after the puja. The procession comprises of Daitapatis, Pati Mahapatra Sevaks, priests, carpenters, Lenka, Kahalia, Deula Karana, Tadhau Karana and security personal of Puri Jagannath Temple . The procession halts at the palace of the former king of Puri. Here permission is taken for the journey. The permission is given by giving bet

Overcoming Globophobia (Fear of Balloons) – Practical Hinduism Solutions Globophobia , or the fear of balloons, can be deeply distressing for those who experience it. In Hinduism, the approach to overcoming fears and phobias is multi-faceted, incorporating spiritual, mental, and practical elements. Focusing on divine guidance, mantras, meditative practices, and inspiration from sacred texts can help alleviate the symptoms of globophobia. Here’s an in-depth guide with specific mantras , spiritual figures , and day-to-day practical methods rooted in Hinduism for overcoming globophobia, including psychological and spiritual support. 1. Mantras to Overcome Fear a. Hanuman Mantras: Lord Hanuman represents strength, courage, and devotion. His energy is ideal for people facing fears of any kind, as He embodies protection and bravery. Hanuman Mantra for Courage: “Om Hanumate Namah” Meaning : This mantra invokes Hanuman’s blessings for strength and protection. Reciting it regularly, especiall

There are trees associated with each 12 Rashis. Meena Rashi also has a particular tree dedicated to it. People born on each Rashi should worship the particular tree. The tree associated and worshipped by Meena Rashi Born people is Banyan. Banyan is the English name and the scientific name is Ficus benghalensis. Hindi name of the Magha Nakshatra Tree is Bargad Telugu name is marri chettu  Malayalam name is Peraal  Tamil Name is aalamaram Kannada name is aalada mara In Marathi it is known as Vada Bengali name is bat Meena Rashi born people should plant the Banyan. Water it. They should also protect the Banyan.

There are trees associated with each 12 Rashis. Kumbha Rashi also has a particular tree dedicated to it. People born on each Rashi should worship the particular tree. The tree associated and worshipped by Kumbh Rashi Born people is Indian mesquite or Shami Tree. Indian mesquite is the English name and the scientific name is Prosopis Spicigera. Hindi name of the Pushya Nakshatra Tree is Jand or Shami Telugu name is Jammi Malayalam name is Tamil Name is Vanni Kannada name is Banni In Marathi it is known as Shami Bengali name is Kumbha Rashi born people should plant the Indian mesquite. Water it. They should also protect the Indian mesquite.

Stone Throwing Festival, Pattharon ka Mela, is an annual festival held at Dhami Village , around 25 km from Shimla, in Himachal Pradesh. The stone pelting ritual is held the day after Diwali. Two groups participate in the centuries old festival – one group representing the royal family and the other representing common people. Those getting injured in the festival smear the forehead of Goddess Kali murti in the vicinity with their blood. Firstpost reports  "Over 300 people participated in the stone-pelting exercise that lasted less than half an hour. It was stopped as some of them started bleeding profusely," said an organiser of the fair.  In this ritual, members of the royal family of the erstwhile princely state stood on one side, facing the villagers.  The locals, dressed in a new attire, lined the grassy slopes and pelted stones at the royal family members after the arrival of the deity of the Nara Singh temple, housed in Dhami's palace, at the K

Overcoming attraction, particularly in the context of lust or destructive attachment , is a theme explored in Hindu philosophy and scriptures. The aim isn't to suppress natural emotions, but to cultivate detachment (Vairagya), self-control (Dama), and mental purity (Shuddhi). Hinduism offers numerous spiritual, psychological, and practical approaches to overcome these challenges, with guidance rooted in scripture, mantras, and divine worship. Here's a comprehensive solution-oriented approach: 1. Understanding the Nature of Attraction In Hinduism, human attraction, especially physical attraction, is viewed as one of the many maya (illusions) that bind the soul to the cycle of samsara (repeated birth and death). Krishna, in the Bhagavad Gita , teaches that desires rooted in the senses create bondage, which leads to suffering and entrapment in material life. Bhagavad Gita 2.62-63 : “When a man thinks of objects, attachment for them arises; from attachment, desire is born; fr