Navagunjara is a creature mentioned Oriya Mahabharata written by Sarala Das. It is a combination of nine different animals and it appeared before Arjuna during one of his expeditions. Navgunjara had the head of rooster or cock, neck of peacock, hump of a bull, tail of a serpent, leg of elephant, leg of tiger, leg of antelope and hands of human beings. Arjuna’s natural reaction was to take his bow and attack the monster before it attacks him. But suddenly Arjuna noticed that Navagunjara was holding a lotus. He lowered his bow and wondered what this creature was. He then remembered the words of Sri Krishna that human mind is limited but universe is boundless. Things that human mind might have never imagined can exist in the universe. Just because humans have not seen or heard, does not mean that it does not exist. Arjuna then bowed Navagunjara and paid his respects. Forms of the supreme truth are countless. What we have heard, seen or imagined is just a drop. 

Hakik Mala or Rasary are made from black stone and is considered very powerful. The popular belief is that it helps in protecting the wearer from bad energies and also helps in attaining courage and success. Black Hakik Malas are made from Agate - an impure form of quartz which is milky or grayish banded and is used as a gemstone. There are too many good effects attached to Hakik Mala. Some texts suggest that wearing of it helps in good fortune, overcoming of fears and helps to alleviate certain types of allergies. Some texts are of the view that it helps in reproduction related problems. Tantrics use the Mala to escape from black magic and evil eye. The number of beads in the Mala includes 108 + 1. There are also yellow, white, green, red and white colored Hakik Malas available. The most popular is the black colored one.

Chinese Language Translation of Bhagavad Gita was published during an international Yoga conference being held in the Communist nation. This is first time that the translation of the Holy Scripture Bhagavad Gita is released publicly in China .   The Economic Times Writes  Translated by Prof Wang Zhu Cheng and Ling Hai of Zhejiang University in Shanghai and published by Sichuan People's Publications, the book was launched at a function attended by eminent Yoga teachers from India who had converged at Dujiangyan in southwestern Sichuan province to attend Yoga Festival. 

One of the most important characteristics of Pooram Nakshatra born female is that they will have good communication skills. Another important character of the birth star is that they will be keen on performing charity. Other Pooram Nakshatra Female Characteristics are given below: Will become famous in their field of activity. Will have a good strong body. Will avoid all sorts of fights and arguments. Will make lot of friends through their sweet talks. Will show interest in arts and science. Will have good and healthy children. Will attract wealth. Will be a spendthrift

One of the most important characteristics of Ayiliyam Nakshatra born female is that they will show good leadership qualities. Another important character of the birth star is that they will have deep knowledge of a subject. Other Ayiliyam Nakshatra Female Characteristics are given below: Good communication skill. Courage to indulge in many activities. Will give prime importance to morality. Will be short tempered Might not remember people who had helped them. Will interested in unraveling secrets. Lack of mental strength. Will be proud of their strength. Will have healthy children. Will be of supportive nature.

In Hinduism, praying for the dead is an important part of showing respect for the departed soul and helping it achieve peace in the afterlife. This is traditionally done through rituals, puja (worship), and mantras that are meant to guide the soul to a peaceful state. The ceremonies and prayers offered for the deceased can vary by region and community, but the essence remains consistent — ensuring that the departed soul attains moksha (liberation) or peace. Key Elements of Praying for the Deceased Shradh and Tarpan Rituals : These are among the most important rites performed after the death of a loved one in Hinduism. Shraadh is a ritual that involves offering food and water to the soul and the ancestors (Pitrus) to ensure that they are satisfied and attain peace. Tarpan is the offering of water to the Pitrus (ancestors) during this ceremony. Pind Daan : It is a ritual where offerings (usually rice balls or pinda ) are made to the soul. This helps the deceased move forward in the cycl...

Chandradityeshwar Mahadev is worshipped in  Ujjain  in Madhya Pradesh and in Orissa. It is one of the 84 forms of Shiva worshipped in  Ujjain . This form is associated with Chandra, the moon god and Aditya, the sun god. It is also associated with Shiva defeating Demon Shambarasur. The temple dedicated to Chandradityeshwar Mahadev is located within in the Mahakaleshwar temple complex. The popular belief is that worshipping this form of Shiva will help in redemption of sins. People also get to live in Chandra lok or Surya lok after their death.. Chandradityeshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84  Shiva   Temples  in  Ujjain  and it is the 72nd temple visited during the parikarama of Shiavalayas here. Chandradityeshwar Mahadev Story Demon Shambarasur defeated the Devas and took over the heaven. All the devas went into hiding. Surya and Chandra also went into hiding. Surya and Chandra then performed intense austerities t...

Pashupati or Pashupatinath is one among the thousand and eight names of Lord Shiva and is mentioned in the Vedas. ‘Pashu’ in Sanskrit means animal and ‘pati’ means lord. Therefore Lord Shiva as Pashupati is the ‘lord of the animals.’ The most ancient representation of Pashupati is traced back to the Indus Valley civilization - a seal depicting a seated horned deity surrounded by animals. Pashupati is applied mainly to Lord Shiva as he is the guardian of cattle, important wealth during the vedic and pre-vedic period. Pashupati is also the keeper of souls. He gives life and takes life. One of the most important Pashupati temples is the Pashupatinath temple in Nepal . The weapon of Pashupati is the Pashupata Astra.

Many devotees want to know what are the benefits of chanting Om Namah Shivaya mantra. It must be noted here that one should never start chanting a mantra by keeping benefits in mind. “Om Namah Shivaya” is a powerful mantra and it will help in a devotee attaining success and peace. The main benefits of chanting Om Namah Shivaya mantra are: It helps in self realization. It helps in attaining moksha or liberation. It helps in removing ignorance. Chanting the mantra and performing one’s duty to one’s true capacity will help in attaining success. The mantra is also chanted by unmarried people for early marriage. For this purpose both male and female can chant the mantra.

Shiva Mantra Siddhi includes peace and prosperity. The person chanting the mantra will be blessed with wealth and happiness. It is also believed that Shiva Mantra Siddhi can help a person in attaining Brahma Gyan through it a person will be blessed with self realization. Shiva Mantra Siddhi - You should chant and meditate on this mantra for attaining siddhi. Om  Hrim Namah Shivaya Shiva Mantra Siddhi is a profound practice rooted in the ancient traditions of Hinduism, focusing on the spiritual and material benefits derived from the dedicated chanting and meditation on Shiva Mantras. This practice is revered for its potential to bring about profound transformation and divine blessings in the practitioner's life. Meaning and Significance Peace and Prosperity : Chanting the Shiva Mantra is believed to create a serene environment, both internally and externally. The vibrations produced by the mantra purify the mind, leading to inner peace and harmony. Practitioners often expe...

If you are venturing into any activity offer prayers first to Ganesha and then offer prayers to Shiva. The most popular Shiva mantra for success is: Om  Hrim Namah Shivaya – This is the Shiva Shakti Panchakshari Mantra and it should be chanted continuously for 43 days. During this period performing charity and distribution of clothes among poor are highly meritorious.

Located at the farthest end of Gomti Ghat very close to the Arabian Sea, Samudra Narayana Temple is dedicated to Vishnu. Samudra Narayan Temple at Dwarka in Gujarat is surrounded by Gomti River and Arabian Sea on the three sides. Some people believe that the huge sea waves that beat on the temple create the tune Srimad Narayan Hari Hari. Five steps lead to the Samudra Narayana Temple entrance. Near the entrance on the left side there is a small cave like room. Goddess Gomti is worshipped in the room. She sits atop a lion. The murti of Samudra Narayan is sand colored. Samudra Narayana means Narayana or the Lord residing in the sea. There is also another murti of Goddess Gomti in the sanctum sanctorum. The other murtis found in the temple are that of Samudra Deva, Varuna, Mother Ashta Bhavani and Mira Bhai. A sacred tank or kund in the temple is used for ceremonial sacrifices. Samudra Narayana Temple is surrounded by Panchanada Tirtha, ...

One of the most important characteristics of Pooyam Nakshatra born female is that they will be short tempered. Another important character of the birth star is that they will be highly intelligent. Other Pooyam Nakshatra Female Characteristics are given below: Will respect teachers. Will be devotional Will show courage to face new situations. Keen interest in science and arts Will be a good debater. Will help relatives. Good in handling wealth Will have independent opinion. Will be interested in dressing up. 

One of the most important characteristics of Punirtham Nakshatra born female is that they will be philanthropic. Another important character of the birth star is that they will be poetic by nature. Other Punirtham Nakshatra Female Characteristics are given below: Will be happy always – will try to put a brave face during adversity. Will give top priority to cleanliness. Will have respect for parents and elders. Will have good healthy children. Keen interest in charity and helping others. Interest in art and music. Will be slow in reacting to situations. Might not make quick decisions. Will be interested in buying new clothes.

One of the most important characteristics of Tiruvathira Nakshatra born female is that they will be fickle minded. Another important character of the birth star is that they will be of strict nature. Other Thiruvathira Nakshatra Female Characteristics are given below: Will have long life. Will easily find the fault of others. Will be proud. Will make good friends especially those in power and high positions. Will be honored and rewarded for excellence. Might lie purposefully Will be talkative Might face trouble in married life.

Dhara, as mentioned, is one of the Yoginis , a group of powerful, supernatural goddesses in Hindu mythology often associated with Tantric practices. Yoginis embody mystical and divine energies that transcend the ordinary, and they are venerated for their transformative and protective abilities. Dhara is specifically the Goddess of the Earth , embodying the energy and fertility of the planet, nurturing all forms of life that grow and thrive upon it. 1. Importance of Dhara in Hindu Mythology Dhara, as the Earth Goddess , symbolizes fertility, stability, grounding, and nourishment, all essential attributes associated with the Earth itself. Just as the Earth supports life, offers resources, and provides for living beings, Dhara's essence represents sustenance, growth, and the natural cycles of life. Earth Connection: In Hindu cosmology, the Earth (Prithvi) is considered sacred and is revered as a divine mother. Dhara’s association with the Earth deepens this connection by blending bo...

There are 20 mountains surrounding the four sides of Mahameru. One among them is the Trikuta. As per Puranas the city of Lanka - Ravan's abode - was built on the peak of Trikuta. Mahameru is on the Northern end of the Himalayas whereas Lanka is on the Southern side of Bharat (India). How did this happen? There is a story in Uttar Ramayana which illustrates the reason. Once a small rift happened between Vayu Deva and Vasuki. They decided to find out who among them is the strongest. Vasuki entangled the Mahameru so that even Vayu was not able to enter the mountain. Vayu got very angry and appeared in the form of a cyclone which started to lash the whole world. Even Mahameru started to tremble. The Devas became scared and they approached Brahma and Shiva. Together they approached Vishnu. Vishnu called both Vayu and Vasuki and ordered them to stop the fight. As a result, Vasuki straightened out one of the tangles which covered the Trikuta. Immediately, Vayu entered there a...

Kuldevta, also known as Kuladevta or Kuldevi or Kuldevata, is the concept of family deity in Hinduism. This tradition is strictly followed by many Hindus but sadly, several Hindus also have lost this tradition or stopped following it. Vedic Rishis keeping in mind the future needs of people especially when people will drift away from studying of Vedas designed the concept of Kuldevta. Vedic Rishis very well knew that in future people under the influence of Kali Yuga would not be learning Vedas. To help them overcome the difficulties of not learning Vedas, the Rishis designed beeja mantras. Chanting of the beeja mantras helped people overcome difficulties. The mantra was primarily conceived to overcome all sort of weaknesses. When weaknesses were removed people attained peace and prosperity. Further intense chanting of the Beeja mantras gave rise to mental forms. This was later given physical form by Rishis and thus we have Kuldevta deities. The beeja mantra for a family de...

Turmeric powder, leaves and whole turmeric root is offered to various Hindu deities and is an essential part of many Hindu worship. The turmeric powder is not offered to Shiva – it is not sprinkled or poured on the Shivling. But turmeric is offered to Gauripatta or jaladhari, the base of Shivling. The upper part of Shivling represents Shiva and he represents masculinity and therefore is not offered turmeric.  The Gauripatta represents Goddess Parvati and is feminine and is offered Turmeric. It is offered as a cosmetic product to the Goddess. This is not based on any scriptures but it is purely a tradition followed by people based on regional beliefs. The rule might not be applicable in all regions. Related Why Ketaki Flower is not offered to Lord Shiva? 

Gudimallam Shivling is a 1.5 meter high ‘lingam’ and is a rare representation of Lord Shiva. The period of construction of Gudimallam Shivling is ascribed to the 3rd - 2nd century B.C and this makes it one of the earliest known idols of a Hindu deity. Gudimallam Lingam is the only idol in which Lord Shiva is carved completely within the Lingam. This rare ‘lingam’ has the figure of two-armed Lord Shiva standing embossed on the front of the ‘lingam’. Lord Shiva has a ram by the hind leg which is held in his right hand and in the left hand there is a vessel and an axe. The shivling stands on a crouching fish, a Meena Yaksha. The idol is found in the Parashurameshvara temple in Chittor District of Andhra Pradesh. The temple is about 25 km east of Tirupati. The temple also has shrines of Kartikeya and his consorts, Anandavali Amman, and Surya.

Bhadra, in Hindu mythology, is a lesser-known yet significant goddess revered as the embodiment of auspiciousness, well-being, and prosperity. She is one of the 64 Yoginis in the tantric tradition, particularly associated with auspicious beginnings, divine energy, and positive outcomes. In Hinduism, Bhadra symbolizes the blessings of life, peace, and happiness, making her an important deity to invoke for success and favorable conditions. Importance of Bhadra Symbol of Auspiciousness : Bhadra is primarily invoked to bestow auspiciousness. This includes material prosperity, spiritual harmony, and the removal of obstacles from life. The word "Bhadra" itself means good fortune, welfare, or well-being. She is believed to ensure the successful completion of tasks, projects, and endeavors, making her a goddess to whom many pray before starting important ventures. Role as a Yogini : In tantric traditions, Yoginis are often fierce, mystical, and possess supernatural powers. As a Yogin...

Kusha or Darbha is the name of the grass that is widely used in prayers and rituals in Hindu tradition. An interesting folktale connects Kusha grass to the birth of Kush, the son of Sri Ram and Sita. As per the folktale, after her banishment from Ayodhya, Sita gave birth to Luv at the ashram of Sage Valmiki. One day Sita left Luv in the custody of Sage Valmiki and went into the forest to collect firewood. But when the sage left for his daily prayers, Luv wandered into the forest and followed his mother. Upon returning, Sage Valmiki on not finding the child became tense. Valmiki searched for Luv everywhere but was unable to find him. The sage thought that some wild animals might have carried the child away. He could not even think about saying this to Sita. Therefore, he took a Kusha grass, used his divine powers, and created another Luv, who had all the qualities and characteristics of the original Luv. Sita soon returned with Luv and was surprised to see the twin. Valmiki...

Goddess Jwalamukhi is an incarnation of Mother Goddess Shakti. The Goddess appeared in the form of a fierce flame on earth. Legend has it that once two demons named Chand and Mund looted all the wealth of Devas. Symbolically, it suggests that the Devas lost their peace and prosperity to the two demons. The Devas then propitiated Shiva to get back the lost treasures. Shiva was pleased by the long and intense penance performed by Devas and appeared before them. Shiva assured them that Mother Goddess would appear in the form of flame and help them. Chand and Mund had hid all the wealth that they had stolen from Devas in a cave in a hill where the present day Jwalamukhi Temple is located in Kashmir. Goddess Jwalamukhi then appeared on the hill, consumed the two demons, and returned the wealth to the Devas. The Goddess then decided to reside on the hill in this form. Goddess Jwalamukhi is popularly worshipped in the form of a yantra. The most popular temple dedicated ...

Mortal remains in Hindu tradition is the bones that that are collected from the funeral pyre. There is a popular belief that immersion of the mortal remains in the Ganga River will help in attaining Moksha. The story narrating the importance of immersing mortal remains in Ganga is mentioned in the Kashi Kanda (Chapter on Kashi) in the Skanda Purana. There lived a man who did not lead a good life. He did not respect elders and women and committed numerous sins. Once he was travelling through a forest and there a tiger killed him. The lieutenants of Yama, the Hindu God of Death, arrived on the scene and carried his soul to Yama. Meanwhile, the tiger ate the body of the man and vultures ate what was left. A vulture carried a piece of his bone and flew up into the sky. Another vulture tried to snatch the piece of bone. While this was happening, Chitragupta, the keeper of records of all actions of human beings on Earth, was reading the deeds of the man to Yama. For the sin...

Flying Hanuman Murti is located at Todd’s Road Hindu Temple at Caparo in Trinidad and Tobago . The murti is based on the incident in the Ramayan of Hanuman carrying the mountain with the Sanjeevani Herb to save the life of Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Ram, who was struck and rendered unconscious by the arrow of Indrajit, son of Ravana. The Flying Hanuman, which is air brushed and stands at about 12 feet tall, with a width of five feet, is portrayed holding a mountain in its left hand on an I-beam pole, which towers 20 feet above ground. The flying Hanuman Murti was designed and executed by Sculptor Marlon Emmons for the private Hindu temple belonging to Harrinarine Persad of Harripersad & Sons Ltd. Guardian Trinidad writes about the Flying Hanuman Murti  The Flying Hanuman statue took approximately seven months to design and construct, at minimal cost, a feat Emmons believed was noteworthy, because a project of this nature would normall...

Kshema is a lesser-known deity in Hinduism who embodies the concept of protection, safety, and welfare. Her name itself means "welfare," "prosperity," or "security." In Hindu tradition, she is often associated with preserving the well-being and safety of individuals, families, and communities, as well as ensuring the continuity of dharma (righteousness) and stability in society. Though Kshema is not as prominent as other deities like Durga or Kali, her importance lies in her connection to the broader yogic and tantric traditions, where she is revered as a Yogini —a female practitioner of yoga and a divine being endowed with supernatural powers. Symbolism and Role Yogini of Protection: Kshema is one of the many yoginis in the Hindu pantheon who assist the primary deities in their divine missions. As the goddess of protection, she watches over those who seek her blessings, guarding them from physical, emotional, and spiritual harm. Association with Lord Vi...

Some of the important cultures in Southeast Asia are influenced by Hinduism which filtered through the region from around the first century AD onwards as a result of trade with South India . The epic of Ramayana has been one the greatest influences in the region. Almost all the countries in the Southeast Asia have a regional version of the Ramayan. In Thailand , the epic Ramayana is known as Ramakian or Ramakien. Ramakian is the national epic of Thailand and the influence of Ramayana is deeply etched in the Thai culture and the Kings of Thailand take the title of Rama. There are some major differences between Ramakian and the original Valmiki Ramayan. The narrative and outline of Ramakian is similar to the original Ramayan.  Ramakian is strongly influenced by the South Indian versions of the Ramayana especially the Kamba Ramayan. Influence of the Bengali and other Southeast Asia versions of Ramayan, especially of that in Indonesia , are seen in Ramakian...

Thunderbolt, or Vajra, is the weapon associated with Indra , the king of the Devas. There is an interesting story in the Puranas that narrates how Indra got the weapon thunderbolt. The story begins with Namuchi, the demon of darkness, removing light from earth and another demon named Vritra removing moisture from earth and thus making earth dry. Due to the activities of Namuchi and Vritra, the earth became barren and living beings began to die. Indra tried to subdue the demons but he failed in all his attempts as the demons had got the boon that they can only be killed by weapon that which is neither solid nor liquid. Indra then approached Srihari Vishnu for a solution. Vishnu then collected foam from the milky ocean and made from it Vajra – a weapon that send out thunderbolts. Indra used the weapon to annihilate Namuchi and Vritra. He then destroyed their palaces and brought back light and moisture to earth. Thus saving the living beings on earth.

Kabandha is a headless Demon, or Rakshasa, mentioned in the Ramayana. Kabandha had a weird shape; his mouth was in his belly. A huge eye was on his forehead, which was on his chest. He also had two enormous arms. Sri Ram and Lakshman were caught by Kabandha while they were searching for Mata Sita after she was kidnapped by Ravan. Kabandha caught hold of Sri Ram and Lakshman in his huge arms. They could not escape from the mighty arms and finally they cut off the arms of the demon and freed themselves. Kabandha was now about to die. Now, the demon introduced himself to Sri Ram and Lakshman. He told them that he was a Gandharva who was cursed by a sage named Sthulashiras. Before being cursed he was called Vishvavasu and was very handsome. He used to take fearful forms to scare and harass humans and saints. During one such antics, Sage Sthulashiras cursed him. The sage told the demon that he will get back his handsome form when Sri Ram will cut off his huge arms and cr...

Chinnamastika is believed be the incarnation of Mother Goddess or Goddess Shakti that appeared before the Devas or Gods who sought for a wife for Shiva. Hindu god Shiva led an ascetic life. He saw no sense in transitory pleasures of life. Devas realized that this would create an upheaval in the universe as there will be no creation if all the living being start to follow the path of Shiva. So they prayed to Goddess Shakti to help in solving the peculiar situation. Goddess Shakti then appeared before the Devas as Chinnamastika. In this form, Mother Goddess was headless. She held a sword in one hand and in the other hand was her cut head. The head was drinking the blood that spurted from her cut head. Chinnamastika is flanked by Jaya and Vijaya. In some painting it is two women that are on both the sides of the Goddess. Mother Goddess stands over Kama (God of Love) and his consort Rati. This shows conquest of lust. Symbolically her portrait shows that through the mast...

Samkhya Sutra is an important text associated with Sage Kapila. The text is also known as Samkhya Philosophy. Samkhya Sutras are credited to Maharishi Kapila. Samkhya Sutras Sanskrit Text with English Translation is provided by Sri Sathya Sai Veda Pratishthan. Link - Samkhya Sutra in pdf Important Teachings Of Samkhya Sutra The Samkhya Sutra, attributed to the ancient sage Kapila, presents foundational teachings that delve deep into the nature of existence and consciousness. Here are some important teachings expanded upon: Dualism (Dvaita): The Samkhya philosophy posits a fundamental duality between Purusha (consciousness, the observer) and Prakriti (matter, the observed). Purusha is unchanging, eternal consciousness, while Prakriti is dynamic and manifests as the material universe. Theory of Creation (Sristi): According to Samkhya, the universe arises from the interaction of Purusha and Prakriti. Prakriti undergoes various transformations (evolutes) to create the manifes...