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Showing posts from March, 2015


Nabadwip in Hinduism – Vaishnava Pilgrim Center in West Bengal

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.

About the tree that is used to make the new murti of Jagannath during Nabakalebara at Puri Jagannath Temple in Orissa

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

Durdureshwar form of Shiva – Durdureshwar Mahadev

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.

Dream that Reveals the Location of the Neem Tree to Carve the Murti of Jagannath

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

About Manickavachagar and Avudaiyar Koil in Pudukottai District in Tamil Nadu

The famous Shiva Temple Avudaiyar Koil in Pudukottai District in Tamil Nadu is closely associated with Saint Manickavachagar 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. Manickavachagar got initiated by Shiva to write the eighth Thirumurai, Thiruvachagam, and was titled Manickavachagar at Avudaiyar Koil. You can read more about the saint and the temple here in this article in the Hindu  As Manickavachagar, 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 nagaswaram, 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.

Navadanya for Navgrahas – the Nine Grains Used in Hindu Rituals – Navadhanya

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

Why is Goddess Kali portrayed as drinking blood?

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 Raktabeeja. After destroying Raktabeeja, 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.

Goddess Girija

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.

Ram Ghat on Shipra River near Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain – Sandhya Aarti at Ram Ghat

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.

Banajaga Yatra – In Search of the Neem Tree to Carve the Puri Jagannath Murti (idols) in Orissa

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

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

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.

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

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 in Himachal Pradesh – Pattharon ka Mela

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

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

There are trees associated with each 12 Rashis. Makar 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 Makara Rashi Born people is East Indian Rosewood. East Indian Rosewood is the English name and the scientific name is Dalbergia Latifolia. Hindi name of the Pushya Nakshatra Tree is kala-shisham Telugu name is iruguducettu  Malayalam name is itti Tamil Name is nukkam Kannada name is beete In Marathi it is known as kalarukh Bengali name is Makar Rashi born people should plant the East Indian Rosewood. Water it. They should also protect the East Indian Rosewood.

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

There are trees associated with each 12 Rashis. Dhanu 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 Dhanu Rashi Born people is Pipal Tree. Pipal is the English name and the scientific name is or Ficus Religiosa. Hindi name of the Pushya Nakshatra Tree is Pipal Telugu name is Bodhi-drumamu Malayalam name is Arayal Tamil Name is Aracu Kannada name is Arali In Marathi it is known as Pimpal Bengali name is Asbattha Dhanu Rashi born people should plant the Pipal Tree. Water it. They should also protect the Pipal Tree.

Correspondence course in communicative Sanskrit at M S University of Baroda

Correspondence course in communicative Sanskrit at M S University of Baroda is in association with Sanskrit-Bharati, an organization actively working at national and international levels to promote Sanskrit.  Times of India reports   The department of Sanskrit, Pali and Prakrit of MSU's faculty of arts has designed the course with the support of Sanskrit-Bharati, an organization actively working at national and international levels to promote Sanskrit.  It has designed four different levels of this correspondence course named 'pravesh', 'parichaya', 'shiksha' and 'kovida'. At present, the department will offer the elementary 'pravesh' level.   After completion the students will know the basics of Sanskrit grammar which is enough to converse in simple Sanskrit and start understanding many words in 'shlokas'.  "This course will help to enrich vocabulary significantly and the students will be able to express themselves fre

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

There are trees associated with each 12 Rashis. Vrischika 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 Vrischika Rashi Born people is cutch tree. Cutch tree is the English name and the scientific name is or Acacia catechu Hindi name of the Tula Rashi Tree is Khair Telugu name is Chandra Malayalam name is Karinagalli Tamil Name is Karanagalli Kannada name is Kaggali In Marathi it is known as  khair Bengali name is khayer Vrischika Rashi born people should plant the cutch tree. Water it. They should also protect the cutch tree.

Chaitra Shukladi – Chait Sukladi

Chaitra Sukladi is the New Year in traditional Hindu calendar based on the Vikram Samvat Hindu Lunar calendar followed in North India. In 2024, the date of Chaitra Sukhladi is April 9. Vikram Samvat 2081 begins on the day. This New Year is observed on the first day of the waxing phase of the moon in the Chaitra month (March – April) in traditional calendar. In simple terms, after the Chaitra Amavasya day (no moon day). Shukladi is one of the methods by which a lunar month is determined. Sukladi means starting from the bright half of the month or from the day after Amavasya (no moon). Shukladi method is followed in the calendars followed in Maharashtra , Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. In North India also Shukladi method is used to celebrate the Vikram Samvat New Year. But here a month is calculated from Purnima to Purnima (full moon).

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

There are trees associated with each 12 Rashis. Tula 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 Tula Rashi Born people is Spanish Cherry. Spanish Cherry is the English name and the scientific name is or Mimusops elengi. Hindi name of the Anuradha Nakshatra Tree is Maulsari Telugu name is Malayalam name is Ilanji Tamil Name is Magizhamboo Kannada name is Ranjal  In Marathi it is known as  Bakuli Bengali name is  Bakul Tula Rashi born people should plant the Spanish Cherry. Water it. They should also protect the Spanish Cherry.

Mahavatar Babaji - Lives Near Badrinath - Himalayas For Millions Of Years

Mahavatar Babaji is a saint who is believed to be living for centuries in the Himalayas . No one knows the exact location of Mahavatar Babaji or his age. We get to hear about this miracle saint from individuals who consider him as their guru. He is called Mahavatar because he was not born from a womb. The world came to hear prominently about Mahavatar Babaji through Paramahansa Yogananda. In his book, Autobiography of a Yogi, Paramahansa Yogananda talks about the experience people had with him (chapters 33 and 34). Mahavatar Babaji was the guru of Lahiri Mahasaya; whose disciple was Sri Yukteswar Giri and Giri was the guru of Paramahansa Yogananda. As per Yogananda, Mahavatar Babaji lives near Badrinath for millions of years in the same physical form. As per the description provided by Paramhansa Yogananda, Mahavatar Babaji appears to be youth of not more than 24 years. Some people claim that Babaji is Guru Gorakhnath, the great Shaiva saint. Some people consi

Chaitra Navratri Puja Vidhi – How to do Chaitra Navaratri Puja? – Rules and Procedure

Chaitra Navratri Puja Vidhi in North India include Ghatasthapana, Kumari Puja etc. Here is a simple method on how to do Chaitra Navratri Puja in North India the Hindu way. The rules and procedure might vary slightly in various regions or depending on communities. Chaitra Navratri Puja Vidhi  Things needed for Chaitra Navratri Puja are: Clay vessel – open mouth to sow barely Kalash Pot Clean and good soil for sowing barely Barely seeds Water Sacred thread (mauli) Scent Supari (betel nut) Coins Mango Leaves Raw Rice Coconut Two Red cloth 2 Flower garlands or flowers Chawki (raised wooden platform) Picture of Painting of Goddess Durga Dhoop Lamp Ghee Cotton wick Fruits Sweets Puja Thali Chunari or cloth for Mother Goddess First is Ghatasthapana Preparing Barely Pot Take the open mouth clay pot and fill soil up to half of the pot. Then put the barely seeds. Put soil on top of the barely seeds. Again put barely seeds but do not

Jotiba Yatra 2024 at Wadi Ratnagiri near Kolhapur in Maharashtra – Chaitra Jyotiba Yatra 2024 at Kolhapur

Jotiba Yatra is annually held in Chaitra month to the famous Jyotiba Temple at Wadi Ratnagiri near Kolhapur in Maharashtra . Jyotiba temple is around 20 km from Kolhapur . Jotiba Yatra 2024 date is April 23. The three day fair and festival begins on April 21. Story of Jyotiba Fair Legend has it that after defeating Kolhasur, Goddess Lakshmi settled at Kolhapur and appointed four guards in four directions. Lord Jyotiba is the one who guards the southern direction. Another legend has it that Jyotiba is considered an incarnation of Kedarnath, who killed the demon Ratnasur. Sasan Kathis are the symbol of emancipation of the demon’s wife. The most common belief is that Jyotiba is a manifestation of Lord Shiva. Another belief in the area is that Jyotiba is a combined manifestation of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The Rituals Thousands of people from Maharashtra , Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka participate in the annual yatra. The main attraction o

Story Of Maha Ashtami Punya Snan In Bangladesh

Maha Ashtami Punya Snan is observed during the Shukla Paksha Ashtami in Baishakh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar. The story of the ritual is associated with Parashuram, an avatar of Vishnu. This ritual is more popular in among Bengali Hindus especially in Bangladesh . As per Hindu Tradition, Parashuram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, killed his mother Amugha Devi with an axe to satisfy his father Jamadagni, who believed his wife was not pure. The axe got stuck on the hand of Parashuram as a mark of sin. For atonement of the sin, Parashuram bathed in the river Brahmaputra . The axe dropped from his hand and Parashuram free from the sin. This divine incident is mentioned in Hindu scriptures but the popular name of Parshuram’s mother is Renuka . The most important bathing spot on Maha Ashtami day is at Langalbandh in Narayanganj – 20 km east of Dhaka in Bangladesh .

Significance of Mango Leaves Toran on Ugadi – Mamidi Toranalu

On Ugadi , people decorate the entrance of home with Mango leaves (Mango leaf Toran) and this is a must for many Hindus. Fresh Mango leaves are attached to a string and are hung atop the doors and windows. Symbolically it signifies freshness, prosperity and the hope of a good harvest and incident free year. Legend has it that it was Kartikeya (Muruga or Skanda) who asked his devotees to tie green mango leaves on doorways. It is said that both Ganesh and Kartik are fond of Mango leaves. Related Ugadi Pachadi

Shirdi Sai Baba Lamp – Lithophane Votive Light of Shirdi Sai Baba from Lladro

Shirdi Sai Baba lithophane is a molded artwork in thin very translucent porcelain that can only be seen clearly when back lit with a light source. It is an ideal Shirdi Sai Baba lamp for offering prayers in puja rooms and for meditation. Lladro, a Spanish firm noted for high quality porcelain figurines – Hindu religion related figurines include various  forms of Ganesha ,  Nataraja Shiva ,  Sri Ram, Mata Sita  and more. Shirdi Sai Baba – lithophane votive light from Lladro is priced at Rs 6,000 /- The size of the lamp is 12 X 9 cm. Lladro signature stores are there in  New Delhi , Gurgaon, Mumbai, Chennai,  Hyderabad , Kolkata and  Bangalore . It is also available in famous jewelry shops and boutiques. 

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

There are trees associated with each 12 Rashis. Kanya 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 Kanya Rashi Born people is Mango tree. Mango tree is the English name and the scientific name is Mangifera indica Hindi name of the Kanya Rashi Tree is Aam Telugu name is Mamidi pandu Malayalam name is Mavu Tamil Name is Kannada name is Mavina hannu In Marathi it is known as Amba Bengali name is Aam Kanya Rashi born people should plant the Mango tree. Water it. They should also protect the Mango tree.

Sadhguru on Overcoming Fear and Insecurities

You don’t have to leave your fears and insecurities because they don’t really exist. You keep creating them unconsciously. If you don’t create them, they don’t really exist. Why you create them and how to stop creating them, that’s the question. The fundamental reason why fear has arisen in you is in this vast existence of which you don’t know the beginning or the end, you are just a little human being. Being the small entity that you are right now, naturally fear is there. It is overwhelming; there is fear and insecurity about what will happen to you. As long as you are identified as physical body, as long as your experience of life is limited to your physical and mental faculties, fear and insecurity are inevitable. Only when a person begins to experience himself beyond the limitations of his physical body and mind, then this person can become free from insecurity and fear. Experiencing yourself beyond the physical is what we are referring to as spiritual. Once this spi

On the Amazing Carvings and sculptures at the Ramappa Temple in Telangana

Ramappa Temple in Warangal district in Telangana is famous for its intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple is located at Palampet village which is around 65 km from Warangal . Built more than 800 years ago, the temple is classic example of the craftsmanship and engineering marvel practiced during the rule of Kakatiyas. The main murti worshipped in the temple is Shiva – Ramalingeswara Swamy. The Hindu reports The temple is known for its elaborate carvings that speak volumes about the dexterity of craftsmen. According to inscriptions, it was said to be built in 1213 AD by Recharla Rudra, a general of Kakatiya king Ganapati Deva.   Among the amazing carvings include a flute at the entrance of sanctum sanctorum which when hit make the sound sa-ri-ga-ma. The pillars within the temple boast of such a fine carvings that one could pass a strand of hair through. It has 13 such carvings perhaps indicating the 13th century when it was constructed. Local guide G. Vijay exp

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

There are trees associated with each 12 Rashis. Simha 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 Simha Rashi Born people is Indian jujube. Indian jujube is the English name and the scientific name is Ziziphus Mauritiana The Hindi name of the Simha Rashi Tree is Ber Telugu name is Regi pandu Malayalam name is ilanthappazham Tamil Name is Elandhai Kannada name is Yelchi Hannu In Marathi it is known as Bor Bengali name is Kul Simha Rashi born people should plant the Indian jujube. Water it. They should also protect the Indian jujube tree.

Athirathram at Sukapuram in Kerala from March 20 to March 31, 2015 – The World’s Oldest Surviving Ritual – Athirathram Vedic Ritual

Athirathram, an ancient Vedi ritual, will be held from March 20 to March 31, 2015 at Dakshinamurthi Temple at Sukapuram near Edappal in Malappuram District in Kerala. It is also the world’s oldest surviving ritual. What is Athirathram? Vedic Yajna (Yajgya or sacrifice or ritual) is performed for the prosperity of human race through peaceful co-existence with nature by energizing the various forces in nature – especially sun. Agni, fire, that represents Sun, the Prathyaksha Brahman or Visible God, in Sanatana Dharma, is worshipped during the Yajna. This vedic ritual is known as Athirathram and is one of the world’s oldest surviving ritual.  During the Athirathram, the Vedic rituals and yajnas performed during the period of the Vedic age will be recreated. For 12 days, one will be transported to the era of the Vedas and Upanishads. Today, the knowledge of Athirathram is only preserved by select Namboothiri (Brahmin) families in Kerala. Athirathram invokes the abundan

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

There are trees associated with each 12 Rashis. Karka 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 Kataka Rashi Born people is flame of forest. Flame of forest is the English name and the scientific name is Butea monosperma. The Hindi name of the Karka Rashi Tree is Palash or Tesu Telugu name is Modugu Malayalam name is Shamata Tamil Name is  Porasum, Parasu Kannada name is Muthuga In Marathi it is known as Palas Bengali name is Polash Karka Rashi born people should plant the flame of forest. Water it. They should also protect the flame of forest tree.

Book – At Ganapati’s Feet: Daily Life with the Elephant-Headed Deity

The book titled “At Ganapati’s Feet: Daily Life with the Elephant-Headed Deity” is written by By Janyananda Saraswati (David Dillard-Wright) and published by Mantra Books. The book is author’s journey through the spiritual world and his guide is Ganesha. The first half of the book focuses on the author’s dilemmas and how Ganesha helped in overcoming the situation. The author was born and brought up in the Christian world. Ganesha was a great discovery for him as it helped in realizing the true meaning of many Christian teachings. Therefore the book is peppered with important teachings from Hindu and Christian beliefs. The first two chapters are titled: Ganesha of Newark Avenue : An Autobiographical Introduction Christianity and Hinduism: Opposites or Complements?  This is authors’ personal journey into the world of Hinduism is largely helped by Ganesha. In nutshell through the first two chapters the author reiterates the great teaching of Rig Veda - "Truth

Biraja Devi – About Goddess Biraja Devi

Goddess Biraja Devi is a manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti and is worshipped in this form at the famous Biraja Devi Temple at Devidwar in Jajpur in Orissa. One popular belief is that Goddess Biraja Devi is Mother Goddess Earth. Another belief is that she is Mahishasura Mardini Durga. She is also worshipped as Savitri. Legend has it that at the present location of Biraja Devi Temple , a yajna was conducted by Dharma, the god of righteousness. Rudra Shiva was worshipped at the yajna and it is believed that Mother Earth appeared at the yajna as the altar. She was called Biraja. Originally Biraja Devi was worshipped in the form of a Vedic Altar and later on in the form of Stambheswari – in the form a pillar as carved figures were unknown during very ancient times. It is by 4 th century AD that Goddess Biraja was given a form. The form of the Goddess is similar to two-armed Mahishasura Mardini. The Vedic origin of the Goddess is still remembered when the Goddes

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

There are trees associated with each 12 Rashis. Mithuna 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 Mithuna Rashi Born dyer’s oleander. Dyer’s oleander is the English name and the scientific name is wrightia tinctoria The Hindi name of the Mithuna Rashi Tree is Kapar The Malayalam name is nilappaala. Kannada name is ajamara Tamil Name is Paalai  In Marathi it is known as Kala kuda Bengali name is Telugu it is known a ankuduchettu Mithuna Rashi born people should plant the dyer’s oleander. Water it. They should also protect the Kapar tree.

Story: Taking Ganga Snan or Holy Bath in Ganga River Alone is Not Enough To Get Moksha

Taking a holy dip or bath in River Ganga is one of the most important rituals in Hinduism. Millions of Hindus perform the holy Ganga Snan during auspicious days and during Magh Mela and Kumbh Mela. The ritual is performed to achieve moksha or liberation and for redemption of sins. There is an interesting story which explains that mere Ganga Snan won’t wash away the sins or help in achieving Moksha. Once Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati was traveling on earth. Goddess Parvati saw thousands of people heading towards River Ganga to take holy bath as it was an auspicious day. Goddess Parvati wondered whether all these people will attain Moksha or liberation by bathing in River Ganga. So she asked Lord Shiva – do you think all these people heading towards Ganga will attain Moksha? Lord Shiva laughed and said that only a dozen or so among them will get Moksha. Only that person who has come with devotion and pious mind will get Moksha. Only those persons who will not comm

Sita Samahit Sthal at Sitamarhi

Sita Samahit Sthal, located at Sitamarhi in Uttar Pradesh, is believed to be the spot where Mata Sita was left by Lakshman during exile and it is also believed to be place where Sage Valmiki composed the Ramayana. Sita Samahit Sthal was discovered by Swami Jitendra Nath Tirth in 1992. The place has a mound in the middle with 30 feet high four hillocks located around. Water coming from the west takes a full round of the mound and then moves towards east. The temple is located in the middle of a pond and is surrounded by trees. The temple is made out of marble and is nearly 80 feet high. A 10 feet murti of Mata Sita is found in the shrine. Inner walls of the hall of the temple depict important events from the Ramayana. Murti of Mata Sita descending into the lap of Mother Earth in the lower storey. Important engravings in the temple include the battle between Luv and Kush against the army of Ayodhya. Hanuman tied to a tree too is engraved in the shrine. Other hi

Custom of Breaking Fasting with Salt less Food in Hinduism – Alavana Vrata

‘A lavana’ means without salt. There are many devotees who break a fasting in Hinduism without adding salt to the food. There is a specific Alavana Vrata which is performed on the third day during the waxing phase of moon in Vaishaka month (April – May); Bhadrapad (August – September) and Magh (January – February). A devotee undertaking the vrat observe complete fasting on the previous day and break the fast on the next day by consuming food with no salt. As the no salt food is consumed on the Shukla Paksha Tritiya or the third day during the waxing phase of moon, the vrat is also known as Alavana Tritiya. Goddess Gauri is worshipped on the Alavana Vrata day. The vrat is performed for attaining peace and prosperity. It is must be noted here that in many regions it is compulsory that a person undertaking fasting should not take salt. This rule is applicable to most fasting associated with Hinduism.

Revati Nakshatra Tree – Which is the tree associated with Revathi birth star Born People?

There are trees associated with each 27 nakshatrams or birth stars. Revathi Nakshatra also has a particular tree dedicated to it. People born on each nakshatra should worship the particular tree. The tree associated and worshipped by Revati Nakshatra Born People is Indian butter tree. Hindi name of the Revathi Nakshatra Tree is Mahua Telugu name is Ippa Malayalam name is Ilippa Tamil Name is Iluppai Kannada name is ippe In Marathi it is known as   Bengali name is  Maul Revati Nakshatra born people should plant the Indian butter tree. Water it. They should also protect the tree.

Rukuna Rath Yatra at Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar in Odisha

One of the most important festivals at Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar in Odisha is the Rukuna Rath Yatra. It is the chariot procession of Hindu God Shiva. Rukuna Rath Yatra 2024 date is April 16. The annual festival is observed in Chaitra month. It is believed that Lord Brahma is the charioteer of Lingaraj (Shiva) on Rukuna Rath Yatra day. The chariot used in Rukuna Rath Yatra at Lingaraj Temple is 35-feet high and has four wheels. The chariot carries bronze murtis of Chandrashekhar, Rukmini and Basudev. Rukuna Rath is also called ‘analeuta’ chariot – this is because the chariot does not take any turn during the entire journey. During the return journey too the chariot is not turned. The direction of altars of the gods is changed and the chariot is pulled from the backside. Thousands of people visit the temple during the period. The journey is from the Lingaraj Temple to Ratha Maha Khala. The return journey is known as Swarnadri Bije yatra. The chariot fe

What Made Adi Kavi Valmiki Compose the first Shloka of the Ramayana? – The Two Love Birds and the Hunter

Sage Valmiki had heard the story of Lord Ram from Sage Narada but was unable to start writing it as he was not able to find an apt meter to compose the poem. Once Sage Valmiki was on his way to Ganga Snaana and came across a beautiful stream named “tamasa.” Captivated by the stream, Sage Valmiki decided to have his bath in the stream and then meditate on its banks. When he was looking for a suitable place to step into the stream, he heard the sweet chirping of two birds in love – a pair of krowncha birds. He was pleased to see the happy couple and stood their and watched them. Suddenly the male bird fell from the sky after being hit by an arrow. The silent and beautiful area was soon filled with the female bird’s cry of agony. Sage Valmiki then realized that the male bird was hit by a hunter. Moved by the touching scene, Sage Valmiki poured out the whole of his sad Heart in these Sholka - maa nishada pratistham tvamagamahsāsvatI: samaa: yat krauncham

Hanuman Quiz – A quiz on the life of Hindu God Hanuman

This is a quiz based on the life of Hanuman. Majority of the questions are from the Ramayana. You can take the quiz – 1 In which Kanda or episode of Ramayana does Lord Rama Meet Hanuman?  Bala Kanda  Ayodhya Kanda  Aranya Kanda  Kishkindha Kanda  2 In which form did Hanuman appear before Lord Ram?  Warrior  Old Woman  Brahmachari  Old Man  3 On the banks of which river did the first conversation between Hanuman and Lord Ram took place?  River Pampa  River Yamuna  River Krishna  River Kaveri  4 Hanuman was the minister of  Vali  Sugriva  Vibhishana  Jatayu  5 Name of Hanuman’s mother  Anjali Anjana  Parvati  Durga  6 Who reminded Hanuman that he can leap over the ocean and reach Lanka?  Sugriva  Jambavan  Rama  Angad  7 Who struck down Hanuman when he tried to leap and reach the sun?  Vayu  Agni  Indra  Surya  8 Which mountain rose up from the sea to provide resting place to Hanuman while leaping to Lanka?  Himalaya  Mainaka  Anamudi  Agastya P

Ten Incarnations of Vishnu and the Ten Shaktis or Mahavidyas of Each Avatar

Each of the ten incarnations of Hindu God Vishnu is assigned a Shakti or Female energy. This concept is more popular in the Tantric tradition. The ten Shaktis are together referred as Mahavidyas. It must be noted that no two Tantric texts agree on the 10 names of Mahavidyas. Also the ten Shaktis that are assigned to the ten Avatars also differ from one Tantric text to another. This particular list of ten Avatars and ten Mahavidyas is taken from the Mundamala Tantra. Dhumavati is associated with Matsya or Fish incarnation Goddess Vagala is associated with Kurma or the Tortoise incarnation Bhairavi is associated with Varaha or Boar incarnation Chinnamasta is associated with Narasimha Sundari is associated with Parashurama Bhuvaneshwari is associated with Vamana Tara is that of Sri Rama Kali is the force of Krishna Kamala is associated with Buddha (some scholars do not consider Buddha as incarnation of Vishnu and instead they consider Balram, the elder brother of Krishna

Anwla Ekadashi In March

Anwla Ekadashi is observed on the Falgun Shukla Ekadasi (11 th day during the waxing phase of moon in Falgun month) as per traditional calendar followed in North India . In 2024, Awala Ekadashi is on March 20. The day marks the beginning of full scale Holi celebrations in the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan. Holika Dahan and Dhulandi festivals are observed three days later.  Special pujas are held during the period Banke Bihari Temple . Lord Krishna is adorned in white clothes and color extracted from Tesu leaves is sprinkled on the devotees. Dry natural color powders are used during the festive occasion. The day is observed as Amalaki Ekadasi in other regions.

Goddess Tripura Bhairavi

Goddess Tripura Bhairavi a manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti and is the 8th Goddess among the ten Mahavidyas. As per some accounts she is believed to have emerged from the Shivling. Goddess Tripura Bhairavi is worshipped for defeating sensual desires and for attaining peace and prosperity. Detail information about the Goddess is found in the Kalika Purana . Goddess Tripura Bhairavi is of reddish complexion and she is adorned with red garments. She has four arms and holds a garland in her upper right hand and the a book in the lower right hand. He lefts hands are in Abhaya and Varada Hasta – in the posture providing safety and granting boons. Her face is noted for a pleasing smile. She is bedecked with all kinds of jewelry. She wears garlands of human heads on her head, waist and neck. She has three eyes and her manner of walking is like that of an elephant. She sits on a white ghost.  Related Various Forms of Goddess Kali – Eight – Nine And Thirteen