--> Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts from July, 2015


Kalkandam in Hindi – What is the Hindi Name of Kalkandam?

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.

Story of Ekadashi Vrat

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 During Bonalu Procession - Telangana Bonalu Festival Men Dressed As Potharaju

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.

Bol Bom Dedicated To Shiva In Shravan Month

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.

Kanwariya – Yatra by Hindu Pilgrims carrying Ganga Water to bath Shivling in Shravan Month

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 Ganapati – Why is Ganesha referred as Ganpati?

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.

Shivling Worshipped in Lingaraj Temple in Orissa to have Silver Cover

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 in Telugu in pdf

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

Vooru Panduga at Nizamabad in Telangana

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 2015, Vooru Panduga date is August 2. 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 proc

Kalachakra in Hinduism

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.

Old-Age Home for Temple Elephants in Kerala

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.

Rankini Devi – About Goddess Rankini

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

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. 

Yakshi In Hindu Religion - Fierce And Evil Being With Supernatural Powers

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 near Junnar in Maharashtra

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 2024 dates are August 5, August 12, August 19, August 26 and September 2. 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 near Lalgun in Satara District in Maharashtra

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 2024 dates are August 5, August 12, August 19, August 26 and September 2. 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 Temple – Hindu Temples at Guhagar Town near Ratnagiri in Maharashtra

Guhagar Town is located around 44 km from Chiplun in Ratnagiri Distirct 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 Kuldaivata 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.

Hanuman Kavach Lyrics in Bengali– Hanuman Kavach Prayer in Bengali in pdf

Chanting Hanuman Kavach or Anjaneya 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

Story of Hanuman Dancing on Ravana’s Head

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. Dancing on Ravana’s head was an attempt by Hanuman to put psychological pressure on the powerful demons. It did w

Kaleshwaram Temple – Kaleshwara Mukteswara Swamy Temple

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 in a month are highly auspicious. Special

Why is Shravan Month Auspicious?

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 Ganga

Jamalapuram Venkateswara Swamy Temple Timings – Opening and Closing and Darshan Time at Jamalapuram Venkateswara Swamy

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).

Story Of The Birth Of Jambavan – The Bear – In The Ramayana

Jambavan is the Chiranjeevi (one without death) Bear in the Ramayana. His age or date of birth cannot be ascertained. The story of the Birth of Jambavan begins when there was no earth or living being. As per Hindu belief, one day time of Brahma ended and night had started. Then suddenly demons Madhu and Kaitabha was born from the ear-wax of Lord Vishnu. They began to create trouble in the waters. Then they saw Brahma, God of creation, sitting on a lotus which appeared from the navel of Vishnu. They challenged him to fight. Four-faced Brahma was afraid of the demons and his middle face began to sweat. The sweat flowed from the cheeks to loins. Jambavan appeared from that sweat. As he was the first person who entered the region of Jambudwipa he came to be known as Jambavan. As he was born when there was no universe or time his age or date of birth could not be ascertained. At the time of Ramayana it is believed that Jambavan was six Manvantaras ol

Uthirakosamangai Temple Timings – Opening and Closing and Darshan Time at Uthirakosamangai Temple near Rameswaram

Uthirakosamangai Temple, also known as Sri Mangalanathar-Mangaleswari temple , is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Uthirakosamangai 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 important rituals. There will be no darshan and the temple will remain closed during grahanam or eclipse. Uthirakosamanga Temple Timings Morning Darshan Timing – 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM Evening Darshan Timing – 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM Specia pujas are performed on Pradosham days. The extended time is mostly on Shivratri, Aani Thirumanjam and Arudhara Darshan dates.

Goddess Baglamukhi – Information about Baglamukhi Mata

Goddess Baglamukhi is an incarnation of Goddess Shakti and is one of the Mahavidhyas. There are several legends associated with Baglamukhi Mata. She is the eighth Mahavidhya among the 10 Mahavidhyas. The goddess is worshipped in the form a powerful yantra. Baglamukhi means one whose face has the power to capture or control. She thus represents the power of the Goddess to control her devotees. Goddess Baglamukhi is depicted as sitting on a golden throne surrounded by an ocean of nectar with lotus flower in it. She has golden complexion and a crescent moon adorns her head. She wears yellow color dress. She is depicted as either having two hands or four hands. When she is two-armed, she is benign and kind mother. When she is four armed she is fierce destroyer of Adharma. She hits a demon with a club in her right hand, while pulling his tongue out with her left hand. Devotees worship her for attaining victory over enemies. It is widely believed that Goddess Baglamukhi bless

Symbolism in Mace or Gada of God Vishnu

The name of the mace, or gada, of Hindu God Vishnu is known as Kaumodaki. It symbolically represents the power in the Lord with which He knocks down the men who run after sense gratifications and are overpowered by ego. It is a symbol of ‘Danda’ or punishment. The mild knocks from the mace in the form of disappointments, dissatisfactions and loss takes a man to the correct path – the path that leads to the Supreme Truth. The mace is also said to represent the occasional knocks that the mind generates – the knocks that pressures us to think who we are, the source, is there bliss etc. These questions put one in a spiritual path. Another symbolism suggests that the mace represents the strength – the strength required to satisfy hunger. Alan Danielou writes: The power of knoweldge dazzles and intoxicates the mind hence the mace is called the stupefire of the mind - Kaumodaki. The power of knowledge is the essence of life from which all physical and mental powers are deriv

Thirupullani Temple - Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple at Thirupullani near Rameswaram

Thirupullani Temple is known as Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple and is located at Thirupullani near Rameswaram. The shrine is located around 8 km east of Ramanathapuram. Legend has it that King Dasharatha of Ramayana offered prayers to Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal (Lord Vishnu) for having children here. Due to the prayer offered here Sri Ram, Bharata, Shatrughna and Lakshman were born to him. Legend has it that Bhagavan Sri Ram, Lakshman, Hanuman, Jambhavan and the vanara sena camped here when they were in search of Mata Sita. It is here Vibhishana, brother of Ravana, took refuge at the feet of Lord Ram. Thus, the temple is also known as Saranagathi Kshethram. Another belief is that Srihari Vishnu gave darshan to Pulla Rishi here. Another legend has it that before setting out for Lanka, Sri Ram offered prayers here. Vishnu gave Ram a bow which was used to annihilate Ravana. Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple is also one of the Divya Desam. It is the 42 Divya Desam, a

Postal Stamp on Nabakalebara festival at Puri Jagannath Temple in Odisha Released

Department of Posts of Government of India has brought out a commemorative postage stamp on Nabakalebara – 2015. It was released on July 17, 2015. The denomination is of 5 rupees and 600,000 stamps have been printed. One can avail it at the philatelic bureau attached to important post offices across India. Related Stamps on Hindu Temples by India Post

Hindu God Khatu Shyam or Barbareek – The Grandson of Pandava Bhima

Khatu Shyam, also known as Barbareek, is the grandson of Pandava Bhima. He willingly gave his head in charity to Lord Krishna before the Mahabharata war. It is said that the head of Khatu Shyam was placed atop a hill near the Kurukshetra and it watched the entire Mahabharata war from there. In his previous birth Khatu Shyam was a Yaksha. Once when Adharma (evil) grew out of control on earth, Vishnu agreed to the prayers of Devas and humans and agreed to take an avatar to bring back Dharma. A Yaksha named Suryavarcha said that not Vishnu but he alone could relieve earth’s burden. For this arrogance he was cursed by Brahma to be born on earth and said that whenever there is an opportunity to relieve earth’s burden he would die at the hands of Krishna . Later Khatu Shyam was born as the son of Ghatotkachch and Kamkantakata. Ghatotkachch was the son of Bhima, the second of Pandava brothers. The word about Mahabharata battle spread around the world and Barbareek too

Thirupullani Temple Timings – Opening and Closing and Darshan Time at Thirupullani Temple near Rameswaram

Thirupullani Temple, also known as Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal temple, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Thirupullani 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 important rituals. There will be no darshan and the temple will remain closed during graham or eclipse. Thirupullani Temple Timings Morning Darshan Timing – 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM Evening Darshan Timing – 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Jimutaketu – Story – How Shiva got the name Jimutaketu?

Jimutaketu is one among the numerous names of Hindu God Shiva. Jimutom means dark rain clouds. How Shiva got the name Jimutaketu is mentioned in the Vamana Purana. Once Goddess Parvati was fed up with the gypsy lifestyle of Shiva and asked him to build a house to stay during summer seasons. Shiva said to Goddess Parvati that he was one without a house and to escape from scorching summer heat he took her to forests with huge trees. They walked through the shade of the forest to escape from the heat. Then the rainy season came and Goddess Parvati again request Shiva to build a house. Shiva said that he has no money to build a house and said that during rainy season they will stay atop the rain clouds to avoid rain. Shiva then started residing atop the dark rain clouds during the rainy season. When Shiva and Parvati stood atop the dark rain clouds they appeared like a flag pole from long distance. Thus Shiva got the name Jimutaketu.

Jambunatha Form Of Shiva – About Hindu God Jambunatha

Jambunatha form of Shiva is worshipped mainly South India, especially in Karnataka. This form is associated with Jambu tree. Legend has it that Shiva gave darshan to an ardent devotee of His under the Jambu Tree. A sage was once performing Tapas under a Jambu Tree. He got a fruit from the tree. He offered it to Shiva and later consumed it as Prasad. The fruit germinated in the stomach of the Sage and grew up into a tree.  Shiva appeared on the tree and gave darshan to the sage by appearing on the tree. As Shiva appeared under a Jambu tree, he came to be known as Jambunatha. The most famous temple dedicated to Jambunatha is located at Thiruvanaikovil in Tamil Nadu and is known as Jambukeswarar Akilandeswari Temple. In Karnataka, too there are numerous shrines dedicated to Jambunatha form of Shiva.

Nana Maharaj Taranekar Jayanti – Birth Anniversary of Nana Maharaj Taranekar

Nana Maharaj Taranekar is observed in Shravan month. It is the birth anniversary celebrations of Nana Maharaj Taranekar. The day is of great importance at Indore in Madhya Pradesh. Nana Maharaj Taranekar Jayanti 2024 date is August 9. Nana Maharaj Taranekar (13 Aug 1896 – 16 Apr 1993) was a disciple of Sri Dattatreya. He spread the teaching of love, humanity and dharma. His teachings are relevant today than ever before. The disciples of Nana Maharaj Taranekar organize various spiritual activities on the day. Prayer meetings, satsangs and charitable activities are held on the day. Nana Maharaj Taranekar birth anniversary coincides with Nag Panchami. Nana Maharaj Taranekar Jayanti is annually held on Shravan Shukla Paksha Panchami or the fifth day during the waxing phase of moon in Shravan month.

Chowdeshwari Devi – About Hindu Goddess Chowdeshwari Devi – Choundeshwari Story

Chowdeshwari Devi is a manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti. She is worshipped mainly in Karnataka and parts of Maharashtra. She is the family deity of many families and communities in the region. Choundeshwari Devi story is given below. Chowdeshwari Devi is four armed. She holds sword and trishul with a snake in the right hands. In the left hands she holds sweet bowl and a snake with Damaru or hourglass-shaped drum.  She wears red color sari and has a look that gives an assurance of motherly affection. Legend has it that Shiva asked Goddess Parvati to take the manifestation of Goddess Chowdeshwari to defeat a demon had a boon that every drop of their blood which touched the ground would create a thousand warriors. Chowdeshwari spread her tongue on earth and covered it. She drank all the blood before it fell on the ground and the demon was defeated. Chowdeshwari Devi is also associated with Nagas or Serpent worship.

Story of Shiva and Mahaganesh Hill or Mahagunas Parvat on the way to Amarnath Cave

Mahaganesh Hill or Mahagunas Parvat is located in Anantnag District in Jammu and Kashmir in India. It is an important holy spot on the way to Amarnath Cave. The story of origin of Mahaganesh Hill or Mahagunas Parvat is associated with Shiva. Legend has it that Goddess Parvati wanted to know the secret of immortality of Shiva. Shiva chose the Amarnath Cave to reveal the secret. On his way to the cave with Goddess Parvati, Shiva left is son Ganesha here. The place where Shiva left his son later came to be known as Mahaganesh Hill or Mahagunas Parvat. Ganesha being left at Mahaganesh Hill or Mahagunas Parvat symbolically represents dropping of attachment. On this way to the cave, Shiva had first abandoned Nandi,  then his matted locks and Chandra and thirdly his Nagas.

Symbolism King Bali Offering His Head To Vishnu As Third Step

Symbolism in King Bali (Mahabali) Offering His Head to Vishnu to Place the Third Step. This divine incident happened during the Vamana Avatar of Vishnu. Deprived of their kingdom, the unhappy Devas (celestial beings) appealed to Lord Vishnu for help. The only way the kingdom could be restored to the celestials would be if Mahabali (King Bali) was killed.  But Mahabali, although he had taken away the kingdom of the celestials from them, was not wicked.  So Lord Vishnu did not want to kill Mahabali, said Goda Venkateswara Sastrigal, in a discourse.  Thus when the Lord took the Vamana Avatara, He assumed a small stature, and asked Mahabali for as much land as His three steps could measure.  Three steps measured by a person of that height didn’t seem much to Mahabali, and he gladly agreed to grant the visitor the gift He asked for.  But when it actually came to measuring the land, the Lord assumed a huge form, and measured the worlds, and when it came to the third step, Ma

Story of Sheshnag Lake on the way to Amarnath Cave and Shiva

Sheshnag Lake is located in Anantnag District in Jammu and Kashmir in India. It is an important holy spot on the way to Amarnath Cave. The story of origin of Sheshnag Lake is associated with Shiva. Legend has it that Goddess Parvati wanted to know the secret of immortality of Shiva. Shiva chose the Amarnath Cave to reveal the secret. On his way to the cave with Goddess Parvati, Shiva released the snakes that are his ornaments here. The place where Shiva released his snakes later came to be known as Sheshnag Lake. The snakes on Shiva symbolizes ego. Shiva abandoned it third on his way to Amarnath cave. Shiva had first abandoned Nandi and then his matted locks and crescent moon.

Story of Chandanwari on the way to Amarnath Cave and Shiva

Chandanwari, on the way to Amarnath Cave, is located in Anantnag District in Jammu and Kashmir in India. The story of the origin of this beautiful place, located on the banks of Sheshnag River, is associated with Shiva. Legend has it that Goddess Parvati wanted to know the secret of the immortality of Shiva. Shiva chose the Amarnath Cave to reveal the secret. On his way to the cave with Goddess Parvati, Shiva left behind his Chandra (moon) and jata (dreadlock). The place where Shiva abandoned moon and jata came to be known as Chandanwari. Chandra (Moon) and jata (dreadlock) symbolize the intellect of discrimination. Shiva abandoned it second on his way to Amarnath cave. Shiva had first abandoned Nandi on his way to the cave .

Story of Pahalgam and Shiva

Pahalgam is located in Anantnag District in Jammu and Kashmir in India. The story of the origin of this beautiful place, located at the confluence of Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder River, is associated with Shiva. The place is also known as the valley of shepherds. Legend has it that Goddess Parvati wanted to know the secret of the immortality of Shiva. Shiva chose the Amarnath Cave to reveal the secret. On his way to the cave with Goddess Parvati, Shiva left behind his vahana or vehicle Nandi. The place where Shiva abandoned Nandi came to be known as Bailgaon. In due course of time, Bailgaon came to be known as Pahalgam. Nandi here symbolizes the desire of mind. Shiva abandoned it first on his way to Amarnath.

Kanifnath Palkhi Prasthan at Moshi near Pimpri Chinchwad

Moshi Kanifnath Palkhi Prasthan is observed in Shravan month and is dedicated to Kanifnath, one of the nine Maha Yogis of Navnath Sampradaya. Moshi located near Pimpri Chinchwad in Maharashtra houses a sacred place dedicated to the great saint. Kanifnath Palkhi Prasthan 2024 date is August 17. Kanifnath is believed to be an incarnation of Prabuddha Narayan and is mentioned in the Bhagavata Purana. Kanifnath Palkhi Prasthan is annually held on Shravan Shukla Paksha Dwadasi tithi or the 12th day during the waxing phase of moon in Shravan month as per traditional lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra. The Kanifnath Palkhi or carrying of the palanquin attracts hundreds of followers of the Navnath Sampradaya.

Rani Durgavati Jayanti

Rani Durgavati Jayanti is annually observed in Ashwin month. It is the birth anniversary of Rani Durgavati (October 5, 1524 – June 24, 1564). She was born in the Chandel Dynasty. She is associated with the sculptures in Khajuraho and Kalinjar Fort. Rani Durgavati Jayanti 2024 date is October 5.  In 2024, it is the 460th birth anniversary of Rani Durgavati. After the death of her husband, Rani Durgavati took over the reins of Gond kingdom as her son was just five years old. She fought Mughal invaders successfully several times. She finally lost her life in 1564 defending her kingdom. The brave queen is remembered for her strong administrative powers and the bravery she displayed in the battlefield. When many kings of her era surrendered before the Mughal Empire, she bravely and successfully defended her kingdom. In the final battle, she was serious injured and she committed suicide before she was captured. Rani Durgavati was keenly interested in art and architecture a

Ashta Dikpalas – the eight Hindu deities that protect the eight quarters of the world

In Hinduism, Ashtadikpalas, or Ashta Dik Palas, are the eight deities that guard the eight quarters of the world. They are popularly known as Dikpalas – the protectors of the quarters – or Lokpalas – the protectors the world. They are also mentioned as the guardian deities of the sky. The Ashta Dikpalas are mentioned in the following order: East – Indira on Airavata – the white elephant. Sometimes Indira is depicted as sitting on a horse named Ucchaisravas. South East – Agni on Mesha (the male goat). South – Yama on Mahisha (the male buffalo). South West – Nirurti on Ashwa (horse). West – Varuna on Makara (the crocodile). North West – Vayu on Mruga (the spotted deer). North – Kubera on Nara (Man) North East – Isana on Vrishbha (bull)

Dharmapuri Temple – Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple at Dharmapuri in Karimnagar District in Telangana

Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple at Dharmapuri is unique with the presence of two murtis (idols) of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy. Dharmapuri Temple located near the banks of Godavari River was a spiritual center from ancient days. The temple is a center associated with Vedic Brahmins. There are two sets of murtis worshipped in the Dharmapuri Temple. Pata Narasimha Swamy – the old murti Kotha Narasimha Swamy – the new murti Both the murtis are worshipped in the shrine along with Goddess Lakshmi. The shrine has got gopurams with sculptures. The pond located in the temple complex is very famous. Panchasahasra Deepalankarana, the lighting of 5000 lamps on the steps of the holy pond, is annually held on Kartik Purnima. Dharmapuri Temple Timings Morning Darshan Hours 5 AM to 7 AM Suprabatha Seva 7 AM to 9 AM Abhishekam 9 AM to 10 AM Darshan 10 AM to 10:30 AM Nitya Homam 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM Nitya K

Deva Sayani Ekadasi Vrat Katha – Dev Sayani Ekadashi Story

Devasayani Ekadashi Vrat Katha, or the story associated with Deva Sayni, was first narrated by Lord Brahma to Narada. The story was later told to Yudhishtira by Lord Krishna and is found in the Bhavisyottara Purana. Legend has it that once there lived a pious King named Mandata and he ruled over a highly prosperous kingdom. But the prosperity of the kingdom was once affected by lack of rain for three years. There was widespread famine the kingdom. No farming activity was taking place in the kingdom. There is a popular belief that a kingdom suffers due to the sinful activity of the King. But King Mandata was not able to find what fault he had committed to invite the wrath of Narayana, who is believed to produce the rains. The king decided to go on a journey and he met several holy men and discussed the problem but none of them offered any solutions. Finally, King Mandata met Sage Angira who suggested that the King should not worry about the reason for no r

Mahakal ki Shahi Sawari in Bhadrapad Month at Ujjain Mahakal Temple

Mahakal ki Shahi Sawari is a special procession that is taken out in Bhadrapad month in the Ujjain Mahakal Temple dedicated to Hindu God Shiva. These special rituals are held on first two Mondays or Somwar in Bhadrapad. Mahakal ki Shahi Sawari 2024 dates in Bhadrapad month are August 26 and September 2. Special processions of the murti of Lord Shiva are held on the first two Mondays of Bhadrapad in the surrounding of the Ujjain Mahakal Temple. Thousands of people arrive to witness this unique ritual. Please note that Mahakal ki Shahi Sawari is also held on all Mondays in Shravan month. 

Swami Brahmanand Lodhi Nirvan Din – Death Anniversary of Swami Brahmananda Lodhi

Swami Brahmanand Lodhi Nirvan Din is observed in Bhadrapad month. It is the death anniversary of Swami Brahmananda Lodhi, a great freedom fighter and pious soul. Swami Brahmanand Lodhi Nirvan Din 2024 date is September 2. Swami Brahmanand Lodhi participated in the in the Salt Satyagraha, Non-Cooperation movement, Quit India Movement and was imprisoned many times. He was closely associated with the freedom fighters of the era. The day is of great importance to Lodhi Samaj. Numerous programs are organized on the day, which include philanthropic activities. Swami Brahmanand Lodhi Nirvan Din is annually observed on Bhadrapada Amavasya Tithi or the no moon day in Bhadra month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Madhya Pradesh.

Padmanabha Tirtha Punyatithi at Baad Guru Math near Karwar

Padmanabha Tirtha punyatithi is annually observed at Karwar. It is the death anniversary of Padmanabha Tirtha, an Advaita scholar who established the Baad Guru Math in 1906. Padmanabha Tirtha Punyatithi 2024 date is August 15. Padmanabha Tirtha had written 43 books on Vedanta, including 32 in Marathi, five in Kannada and six in Sanskrit. Various philanthropic activities are organized on the day. Spiritual programs and prayer meetings are held at Baad Guru Math. Padmanabha Tirtha Punyatithi is annually observed on Shravan Shukla Paksha Dasami Tithi or the 10 th day during the waxing phase of moon in Shravan month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Karnataka.

Kal Sarp Dosh People Should not wear Gemstone or birth stone Cat’s eye

Those people having Kal Sarp Dosh or Kaal sarpa yog in their horoscope should not wear gemstone or birth stone Cat’s eye. The gemstone is known as Lahsuniya or Vaiduryam or Sutramani in Hindi, Tamil and other regional languages in India. It is believed that if people having Kal Sarp Dosh wears the birth stone Cat’s eye the intensity of the yog will increase and it will cause more damage to the person.

Posters of Hindu God Krishna – Gods in Print: The Krishna Poster Collection

Gods in Print: The Krishna Poster Collection brings forty of the most iconic images of Krishna. The posters also contain images of Vishnu and his other popular avtars. The posters are a replication hand-colored lithographs, multiple-block chromolithographs, and offset print images of 19th century. The posters are published by Mandala Publications and Earth Aware Editions. From the publisher Gods in Print: The Krishna Poster Collection brings forty of the most iconic images of Krishna from Gods in Print into a new removable and frameable format, allowing for greater appreciation of all the details and thought put into each piece.  Featuring images of Krishna as the child Gopal, with Radha, battling Kaliya, and many more, this divine gallery is the ultimate poster collection of historical Krishna prints and lithographs for anyone interested in Hinduism, spirituality, mythology , or art.  You can find more details about the book here . Please note that the book is not publishe

Niladri Bije at Puri Jagannath Temple

Niladri Bije at Puri Jagannath Temple is the return of the three deities – Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Devi Subadhra – to their respective sanctum sanctorum in the Puri Jagannath Temple after the Ratha Yatra. Servitors carry the huge wooden murtis of three deities from chariots swaying them rhythmically in a ritual described as pahandi to the sanctum sanctorums. More than 100,000 devotees gather to witness this return of the murtis to the temple. Suna Besha ritual is observed a day before Niladri Bije.

Brahmendra Swami Punyatithi at Dhavadashi near Satara – Birth Anniversary of Brahmendra Swami at Dhawadshi

Brahmendra Swami Punyatithi is observed in Shravan month. It is the birth anniversary of Brahmendra Swami, a great sant who spread the teaching of Dharma. The day is of great importance at Dhavadashi or Dhawadshi near Satara. Brahmendra Swami Punyatithi 2024 date is August 14. A temple dedicated to Brahmendra Swami is located at Dhawadshi. Hundreds of people visit the shrine to pay homage to the pious soul. Spiritual programs are organized on the day. Brahmendra Swami Punyatithi is observed on Shravan Shukla Paksha Navami Tithi or the 9 th day during the waxing phase of moon in Shravan month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra.