Kalkandam is widely used in Hindu pujas and rituals. Kalkandam is the Malayalam name of Candy Sugar. So what is the Hindi name of Kalkandam? Many readers wanted to know this. Kalkandam is known as Khadi Sakhar in Hindi. In North India, Khadi Sakhar is used in preparing food. It is rarely used in pujas. How Is Kalkandam used In Hindu Pujas? Kalkandam, also known as rock candy or sugar candy, holds significance in Hindu rituals and pujas primarily due to its purity and sweetness. Here are a few common ways it is used: Offering to deities : Kalkandam is often offered to deities during pujas as part of the naivedyam (food offering). It symbolizes purity and sweetness, signifying the devotion of the devotee towards the deity. Distribution to devotees : In some temples, especially during special occasions or festivals, kalkandam is distributed as prasad (blessed food) to devotees after the puja. This is believed to bring blessings and positive energy from the deity. As a sweetener i...

Story of Ekadashi Vrat happened during the Satya Yuga and is mentioned in the Puranas. Legend has it that Bhagavan Srihari Vishnu was engaged in battle with Demon Mura during the Satya Yuga. The battle went for several days and feeling tired Bhagavan Vishnu decided to rest. However, Demon Mura decided to attack Srihari Vishnu while he was sleeping. Suddenly a young girl appeared from the body of Bhagavan Vishnu and she annihilated demon Mura. She was the primordial mother and pleased with Her, Srihari Vishnu called her Ekadashi as she appeared on the eleventh day of the fortnight. He also granted her the boon that anyone who observes fasting on Ekadashi Tithi will become free of all sins and will attain moksha.

Potharaju is the brother of Goddess Mahankali. He is a fierce looking man and is part of procession to Mother Goddess temples. Today many people dress like Potharaju and leads the Bonalu procession. He walks ahead of the procession whipping himself. He is part of Bonalu procession, Pochamma Thalli and Ellamma Thalli. Potharaju symbolically represents masculine power, which can weed out all physical evils affecting the devotees of Goddess Mahankali. Thus, he is a protector or guardian deity. Usually Potharaju is a well-built man, whose body is covered with turmeric powder and red vermilion on forehead. He wears a red dhoti. Bells are tied to the ankle and dances to the sound of drums. Potharaju carries a whip and lashes it against his body to the sound of drum beats. He is followed by women carrying bonam or by females who tie neem leaves around their waist and are in a trance. Sometimes Potharaju goes into a trance and predicts the future of the community.

The Hindu Shravan month witnesses thousands of devotees visiting various shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The pilgrims shout ‘Bol Bom’ or ‘Bhol Bom’ meaning ‘Say Shiva’ during the pilgrimage. In some places the pilgrimage itself is referred as Bol Bom. The term is used mainly during the pilgrimage to Deoghar Baba Baidyanath Temple from Sultanganj (Shravani Mela). In Nepal , Hindu devotees take part in a ‘Bol Bom’ pilgrimage in Kathmandu on Monday in Shravan Month. The devotees run or walk barefooted for kilometers to reach the Pashupatinath Temple seeking good health, wealth and happiness. The Bol Bom yatris are also known as Kanwarias in India and they participate in the Kanwar Yatra. They carry the sacred Gangajal to home and Shiva Temples to bath the Shivling.

In the month of Shravan (July – August) the roads of Delhi, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Punjab, Bihar and Jharkhand will be taken over by saffron-clad Hindu devotees carrying Ganga water. They are the Kanwariya who are undertaking the Kanwar Yatra. They collect water from the Ganga in Haridwar, Gangotri, Gaumukh, Allahabad , Sultanganj and other holy places and return home to bathe the Shiva Lingam in their homes or villages on the Amavasi day in the Shravan month. Why They Are Known as Kanwariyas and What They do? The name Kanwariya because they carry a pole called ‘Kanwar’ on their shoulders and pots with Ganga Water hang from the two sides of the pole. It is estimated that more than six million Kanwarias visit various holy places through which Ganga flows in Uttarakhand. Another one million devotees carry Ganga water from Sultanganj – the only place where Ganga flows towards north – to the famous Deogarh Shiva temple during Shravan Mela. Some devo...

Meaning of Antahkarana in English is internal instrument. Antahkaran are four in numbers. They are: Mind (Manas) Ego (Ahamkara) Intellect (Budhi) Memory (Chitta) In Hinduism, the concept of Antahkarana is associated with Vedanta. Proper understanding and functioning of Antahkarana helps in attaining moksha or liberation. The Significance of Antahkarana: Internal Instruments in Hindu Philosophy In the intricate tapestry of Hindu philosophy, the concept of Antahkarana holds profound significance. Antahkarana, often translated as "internal instrument," comprises four distinct components: Mind (Manas), Ego (Ahamkara), Intellect (Buddhi), and Memory (Chitta). Each element plays a crucial role in shaping human consciousness and spiritual evolution according to Vedanta, a prominent school of Hindu thought. Mind (Manas): At the core of human cognition lies the Mind, Manas. It is the seat of emotions, desires, and impulses. Manas interacts with the external world ...

The English meaning of Karmendriyas is the five lower sense organs. They are: Feet Hands Rectum Genitals Mouth Karmendriya means Karma and Indra. Karma means action and Indra is the God of the ‘sensory’ heaven in Hinduism. Control of Karmendriyas is essential for a peaceful life on earth. It is also necessary for attaining moksha or liberation. The concept of Karmendriyas, as described in Hindu philosophy, delves deep into the understanding of human actions and their significance in spiritual evolution. Derived from the Sanskrit words 'Karma' meaning action and 'Indriya' meaning sensory or organ, Karmendriyas refer to the five lower sense organs that facilitate physical interaction with the external world. These organs are: Feet (Pada) Hands (Pani) Rectum (Payu) Genitals (Upastha) Mouth (Mukha) Each of these organs plays a crucial role in our day-to-day activities, allowing us to engage in various actions and experiences. In Hinduism, these actions ar...

The English meaning of Jnanendriyas is the five lower sense organs. They are Ears Eyes Nose Tongue and Skin Jnanendriya means Jnana and Indra. Jnana means wisdom and Indra is the God of the ‘sensory’ heaven in Hinduism. Control of Jnanendriyas is essential for a peaceful life on earth. It is also necessary for attaining moksha or liberation. The Control and Significance of Jnanendriyas: Attaining Peace and Liberation In Hindu philosophy, the concept of Jnanendriyas encompasses the five lower sense organs: ears, eyes, nose, tongue, and skin. These organs, crucial for perception and interaction with the external world, play a fundamental role in human experience. The term "Jnanendriya" derives from two Sanskrit words: "Jnana," meaning wisdom or knowledge, and "Indra," referring to the deity presiding over the sensory realm in Hindu mythology. Thus, Jnanendriyas represent the channels through which knowledge and sensory experiences flow into ou...

The meaning of Ganapati – Gan means ‘samooh’ or society and pati means ‘Swami’ or leader. Ganesha is referred as Ganpati because he is the leader or commander of the society. In human body, there are five Jnanendriyas (five sense of organs), 5 Karmendriyas (five organs of action) and 4 antahkaran – mind, ego, intellect and memory. These powers are controlled, maintained and executed by 14 deities. These 14 deities arise and fall in Ganesha. The most popular story on birth of Ganesha in Puranas suggest that Shiva made Ganesha the commander in chief of Ganas and therefore he is known as Ganapati. The Meaning of Ganapati: Understanding the Leadership of Ganesha In the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology, Lord Ganesha occupies a position of profound significance and symbolism. Known affectionately as Ganapati, the name itself carries layers of meaning that delve into his role as a leader and commander. Etymologically, 'Gan' signifies 'samooh' or society, while '...

The Shivling worshipped in Lingaraj Temple in Orissa will be covered with silver cladding. The stone Shiv Lingam was earlier covered with silver cover but was discontinued. The New Indian Express reports The ‘Shiv Linga’ at Lingaraj temple will once again have a silver cladding from Monday. The decision was taken at a meeting of Lingaraj Temple Trust Board presided by its chairman, Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Abanikanta Patnaik. Patnaik said the board decided to clad the ‘Linga’ with silver cover again from Monday. The silver cover had adorned the ‘Linga’ for a few days after it was donated by a devotee last year. But, it was removed following a dispute, he said. The ADM said the meeting of the board was convened following the decision of the sub-committee to clad the ‘Linga’ with silver from any Monday.

Lakshmi Narasimha Ashtottara Shatanama Stotram is the names of Lord Narasimha. The prayer is chanted for peace and prosperity and for overcoming fear and enemies. The stotram in Telugu in pdf format is given below. The text or lyrics of Lakshmi Narasimha Ashtottara Shatanama Stotram in Telugu language is provided by Sundar Kidambi of prapatti. Link – Telugu Lakshmi Narasimha Ashtottara Shatanama Stotram

Krishna Stuti is dedicated to Bhagavan Sri Krishna. You can find the link to the Krishna Stuti Lyrics in Hindi in pdf format below. The prayer is chanted daily morning and evening for attaining peace and prosperity. The document in pdf in Hindi language is provided by Sundar Kidambi of prapatti. Link – Krishna Stuti Lyrics in Hindi Benefits Of Chanting Krishna Stuti Daily In Hinduism In Hinduism, chanting Krishna Stuti (hymns or praises dedicated to Lord Krishna) daily is believed to offer a wide array of spiritual, mental, and physical benefits. Krishna, a central figure in Hinduism, is revered as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and is associated with love, wisdom, and the destruction of evil. The practice of chanting Krishna Stuti encompasses various aspects of devotion, meditation, and mindfulness. Here are some of the key benefits attributed to this practice: Spiritual Benefits Enhancement of Bhakti (Devotion): Chanting Krishna Stuti nurtures a deep sense of devotion and love f...

Differences And Similarities Between The Character Of Sri Rama And Preah Ream In Cambodian Reamker  The characters of Sri Rama in the Indian epic Ramayana and Preah Ream in the Cambodian Reamker share many similarities, as the Reamker is a Cambodian adaptation of the Ramayana . However, both figures exhibit distinct differences shaped by the cultural, historical, and religious contexts of their respective civilizations. Similarities Between Sri Rama and Preah Ream: Divine Incarnations : Both Sri Rama and Preah Ream are considered incarnations of the god Vishnu, born to uphold dharma (righteousness) and rid the world of evil. They are revered as paragons of virtue, embodying ideal qualities such as loyalty, honor, and devotion to family and kingdom. Central Role in the Epic : In both the Ramayana and Reamker , the central story follows their life journey, their exile, the abduction of their wife (Sita/Neang Seda), and the eventual battle against the demon king Ravana (known a...

Vooru Panduga is observed on first Sunday at Nizamabad during the waning phase of moon in Ashada month (July – August) as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Telangana. People of the region organize it for a good harvest in the coming year. It is also observed for peace, prosperity and good health. in 2025, Vooru Panduga date is July 13. In Vooru Panduga, new murtis (idols) of Mother Goddess are created and installed at Goddess Saradamba temple in Nizamabad. The murtis are carved out of mango tree wood. The carving of murtis begin on the Tuesday before the Sunday when the festival is held. On Tuesday, village servants pour bandaru on streets. Village servants known as Kamdars receive the murti from the carpenters on Saturday. The murtis are then placed at the altar of Goddess Saradamb, at the footsteps of Indur fort in Nizamabad. On Sunday, the murtis are taken in a huge procession around the town. Thousands of devotees gather to witness the proce...

Kalkandu is widely used in Hindu pujas and rituals. Kalkandu is the Tamil name of English Candy Sugar. So what is the Hindi name of Kalkandu? Many readers wanted to know this. Kalkandu is known as Khadi Sakhar in Hindi. In North India, Khadi Sakhar is used in preparing food. It is rarely used in pujas. Khadi Sakhar, also known as Khadi Shuddha, is a type of sugar that is gaining popularity due to its unique properties and health benefits. Made from sugarcane juice using traditional methods, Khadi Sakhar offers several advantages over refined sugar. This essay explores the benefits of Khadi Sakhar and why it is increasingly becoming a preferred choice among health-conscious individuals. Firstly, Khadi Sakhar is a minimally processed form of sugar. Unlike refined sugar, which undergoes multiple stages of processing and bleaching, Khadi Sakhar retains more of its natural nutrients and minerals. This includes trace amounts of iron, calcium, and other minerals that are often lost...

Kalachakra is the time wheel.  The term is mostly used in Hinduism to refer to the passage of time or time personified as mute witness. Time is perceived in form of a chakra or rotating wheel. Kalachakra is also associated with Kala (Yama – the Hindu god of death) and Rudra Shiva or one of his fierce forms that appear at the end of one cycle of creation to devour all animate and inanimate. Yama is associated with Kalachakra because for an individual his arrival marks transformation into another form. Kalchakra has no beginning or end. The rotation of Kalachakra continues forever.

Aged elephants in Kerala will soon get an old-age home – a geriatric centre. The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), which manages a large number of Hindu Temples in southern Kerala including the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple , will set up the geriatric care centre. DNA reports  Temple elephants, suffering from various age-related ailments, will be shifted to the geriatric care centre and given special care and treatment under trained mahouts and veterinarians. Kerala is home to a large number of captive elephants in India .   "The geriatric care centre is planned to be set up in Thiruvananthapuram or in central Kerala. We are planning to shift aged elephants, kept at TDB temples, to the new centre. They will be given scientific care and upkeep there," Devaswom Commissioner P Venugopal said.

Krishna Mangalam is dedicated to Bhagavan Sri Krishna. You can find the link to the Krishna Mangalam Lyrics in Hindi in pdf format below. The prayer is chanted daily morning and evening for attaining peace and prosperity. The document in pdf in Hindi language is provided by Sundar Kidambi of prapatti. Link – Krishna Mangalam Lyrics in Hindi

Differences And Similarities Between The Character Of Ravana in Ramayana And Reap In Cambodian Reamker  The characters of Ravana in the Indian epic Ramayana and Reap in the Cambodian version of the same tale, Reamker , serve as the main antagonists. Both figures share many similarities in their fundamental role as villains and in certain character traits, but they also exhibit notable differences based on the cultural context of their respective versions. These variations are reflected in their portrayal, importance, and influence in the art, culture, and teachings of India and Cambodia. Let's explore the similarities and differences between these two characters and expand on their modern-day relevance, influence, and impact. Similarities Between Ravana and Reap: Role as the Main Antagonist : Both Ravana in Ramayana and Reap in Reamker play the central villainous role. They are the kings of Lanka and symbolize the embodiment of evil forces that oppose righteousness and dharm...

Sudarshana Mantra is a prayer dedicated to the Sudarshan Chakra of Lord Vishnu. Below is the Sudarshana Mantra in Kannada text in pdf. The prayer is chanted for overcoming fear and for defeating enemies. The document in pdf in Kannada language is provided by Sundar Kidambi of prapatti. Link –  Sudarshana Mantra in Kannada

Sudarshana Mantra is a prayer dedicated to the Sudarshan Chakra of Lord Vishnu. Below is the Sudarshana Mantra in Hindi text in pdf. The prayer is chanted for overcoming fear and for defeating enemies. The document in pdf in Hindi language is provided by Sundar Kidambi of prapatti. Link  –  Sudarshana Mantra in Hindi

Goddess Rankini is a manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti. She is mainly worshipped in eastern parts of India, especially in Orissa, Jharkhand and Bengal. From ancient times, the tribes of the region worshiped her. Her shrines are mainly located in deep jungles. She is also a popular fertility deity in the region. There is no reference of Rankini Devi in the Vedas, Puranas or Epics. Goddess Rankini is invoked for protection. She was the guardian deity who helped people who ventured into the forest for various purposes. Today, Goddess Rankini is worshipped like other forms of Mother Goddess. She is worshiped for wish fulfillment and for early cure of diseases. She is also worshipped by couples for good and healthy children. The murti of Goddess Rankini is a naturally occurring stone with marks of her presence. Even today animals are offered to her as part of sacrifice ritual. Important temples dedicated to Rankini Devi are located in Jamshedhpur and Ghatsh...

Shakti Ganapati is one among the 32 forms of Hindu God Ganesh. This form of Ganesha is worshipped for the control of the five senses. Shakti Ganapati Mantra is Alingya deveem haritandgyashtim parasparakshlishta katipradesham! Sandhyarunam pashasni vahantham bhayapaham Shakti ganeshameede In this form Ganesha is depicted as hugging a Goddess. Some scholars are also of the view that this is a Tantric posture of Ganapati. The color of Shakti Ganapathi is deep red like setting sun. He has four hands and holds a noose, flower garland, one hand is in blessing posture and with the fourth he hugs the goddess, who is seated on this lap. It is believed that prayers to this form helps in controlling the sense organs, so that a devotee will concentrate on his mission and achieve it without any major trouble.  Shakti Ganapati, depicted as hugging a Goddess in a Tantric posture, carries deep symbolic meaning: Tantric Symbolism: The embrace of Shakti Ganapati with a Goddess ...

Talk about Yakshi and what comes to the mind is a beautiful woman who turns into a fierce being and eat men. They are fierce and evil beings with supernatural powers. But the concept of Yakshi is as old as the Vedas. Although they were not part of the Vedic Pantheon. Voluptuous figures of Yakshi as old as third century BC have been discovered. Thus, she was a concept that was known to the people of Vedic era. She was associated with trees and water and thus part of nature spirits. Her figures had massive breasts, hips and thighs but slender thighs. She was plump and irresistibly beautiful. To show her connection with nature, she is mostly depicted as standing beneath a tree. In many folklores, Yakshi appears in terrifying form. She uses her heavenly beauty to lure men into their deaths. It is said that Yakshi enjoy men’s sexual favors before eating them. Yakshini is part of sculptures in temples but here she is a guardian deity protecting the sanctum sanctorum. In mode...

Kapardikeshwar Yatra at Otur is annually held in Shravan month. It is observed at the Kapardikeshwar temple at Otur near Junnar in Maharashtra. Kapardikeshwar Yatra at Otur 2025 dates are July 28, August 4, August 11 and August 18. The yatra is held on all Mondays in Shravan month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra. The main ritual involves pouring of water, bilva leaves and milk on the Shivling here. Devotees arrive from early morning to observe the ritual.

Nagnath Yatra at Nagnath Wadi is annually held in Shravan month. It is observed at the Nagnath temple at Nagnath Wadi near Lalgun in Satara District. Nagnath Yatra at Nagnath Wadi 2025 dates are July 28, August 4, August 11 and August 18. The yatra is held on all Mondays in Shravan month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra. The shrine has equal importance to Shiva and Nag Devatas. The main ritual involves pouring of water, bilva leaves and milk on the Shivling here. Devotees arrive from early morning to observe the ritual.

Guhagar Town is located around 44 km from Chiplun in Ratnagiri District in Maharashtra. The town has two famous Hindu Temples. Guhagar Temple include Durga Devi Temple and Vyadeshwar temple. Guhagar Durga Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is the family deity or Kuldaivat of Chitpavan families. There are four subsidiary shrines in the main temple complex. Thus making it a five deity temple – Panchayatan. Vyadeshwar temple is dedicated to Shiva. It is believed that the temple is constructed at the spot where Bhagvan Shiva gave darshan to Parashuram. Shiva is known here as Vyadeshwar because the Shivling was installed by Vyad Muni. The temple also has subsidiary shrines dedicated to Surya, Ganesha, Parvati and Vishnu and Lakshmi. There are also murtis of Nandi, Garuda and Maruti in the temple complex.

Chanting Hanuman Kavach is considered highly meritorious. Below is the link to Hanuman Kavach lyrics in Bengali in pdf. It can be can be chanted on all days. The text is in Bengali language. Chanting the mantra on Hanuman Jayanti is highly meritorious. It is highly auspicious to chant the mantra on Tuesday and Saturday. It is chanted for gaining self confidence and for peace and prosperity. Those facing problems related to Shani Bhagavan in life will get relief by chanting the Hanuman Kavach on Saturday. Link – Hanuman Kavach Lyrics in Bengali

Overcoming Hurdles in Life: Hinduism's Solutions and Practical Approaches Hinduism offers profound spiritual solutions and practical approaches to overcoming life's challenges. Rooted in ancient wisdom, this philosophy teaches that obstacles are temporary and part of a larger cosmic design to help individuals grow. Here's how one can address hurdles, combining spiritual practices, daily routines, and mindset shifts. Key Concepts from Hinduism for Overcoming Obstacles: Karma (Law of Cause and Effect): Understanding that challenges arise as part of one's past actions, and each obstacle offers an opportunity for learning and spiritual growth. Facing hurdles with a positive attitude can lead to the dissolution of past karma. Dharma (Righteous Duty): Focusing on one’s duties without attachment to the result helps maintain mental clarity. By doing one's duties to the best of their ability, one can navigate difficulties with resilience. Shraddha (Faith): Faith in the divin...

Hanuman dancing on Ravana’s head happened on the first day of the battle between Ram and Ravana in the Ramayana. When the first day of battle was about to end, Ravana appeared on the highest tower in Lanka. Ravan was disappointed to find his troops retreating defeated at the hands of monkeys and bears. Hanuman, who happened to see Ravana standing on the tower, took a giant leap and landed on the demon king’s head. Hanuman then began dancing on the ten heads of Ravana. He began kicking down the crowns of Ravan. The entire Rakshasa army was in a state shock seeing this dishonorable act. Rakshasas (demons) put down their head in shame. The vanaras (monkeys) and balukas (bears) were amused by this act and started roaring in approval. Hanuman dancing on Ravana’s head is not part of Valmiki Ramayan but is mentioned as Hanuman’s heroics in many texts like the Bengali Krittibasi Ramayana.. Dancing on Ravana’s head was an attempt by Hanuman to put psychological pre...

Kaleshwaram Temple is located at Kaleshwaram Town in Karimnagar District in Telangana. The shrine is popularly known as Kaleshwara Mukteshwara Swamy Temple and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The shrine is located on the banks of Godavari River.  The popular belief is that Kaleshwaram is the Triveni Sangamam or the meeting point of Pranahita River, Godavari River and the Saraswati River.  The unique aspect of the Kaleshwaram Temple is that there are two Shivlings on a single pedestal or panavattam. Ammavaru his consort is worshiped separately.  Shiva is worshipped here as Mukteshwara and Kaleshwara. Kaleshwar Shivling symbolically represents Lord Yama. Kaleshwaram, Draksharamam and Srisailam are together known as Trilinga Desham. There is also a unique sculpture of fish in the temple, which is noteworthy. There are also murtis of Ganesha, Mother Goddess, Hanuman and Dattatreya in the temple. Mondays and Pradoshas ...

Shravan Mahina (July – August) is one of the holiest months in a traditional Hindu calendar. The month is dedicated to Lord Shiva and millions of Shiva devotees visit various shrines and offer water, milk and belpatra (Bilva leaves). Mondays in Shrawan month is considered highly auspicious to offer prayers to Lord Shiva.  The month is known as Shravan because it is governed by the star ‘Shravan.’ Story Legend has it that during the famous Samudra Manthan episode (Churning of Ocean) mentioned in the Puranas, 14 types of precious things came out as a result of the churning of the ocean. Asuras (Demons) and Devas (Demi Gods) shared thirteen of them. The last precious thing that appeared was the called ‘halahal’. It had the power to destroy the universe. To save the universe, Lord Shiva consumed the ‘halahal’ and stored it in his throat. When Lord Shiva started consuming the poison, all the Gods and holy saints appeared on the sky and started offering the holy G...

Jamalapuram Venkateswara Swamy Temple is located near Yerrupalem town in Khammam District of Telangana. Jamalapuram Venkateswara Swamy temple timings in detail is given below. Please note that the opening and closing time in the temple will be extended during temple festival and other important rituals. There will be no darshan and the temple will remain closed during grahan or eclipse. Jamalapuram Venkateswara Swamy Temple Timings Morning Darshan Timing – 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM (Darshan will not be allowed during certain important rituals which might of 15 to 30 minutes duration). Evening Darshan Timing – 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM Specia pujas are performed on Ekadasi days. The extended time is mostly on Vaikunta Ekadasi and during annual temple festival (brahmostsavam).