Shri is the sacred sound of cosmic auspiciousness and abundance in Hindu religion. Written as Sri or Shree or Sree or Shri, it stands for abundance, auspiciousness, affluence, grace, wealth, light, luster, splendor, beauty, loveliness and authority. The symbol has been used since Vedic times. Holiness is attached to the word when written or spoken. It is also added before a name to show respect. After the symbol ‘Aum’ (ॐ) and Swastika , Shri is the most popular symbol used in Hinduism. Sri is also the sacred symbol of Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. The symbol is therefore written atop of ledgers and documents. If 'OM' is spiritual, Shri is both spiritual and materialistic. Sri is used to address gods in Hindu pantheon, elders, teachers, holy men and any individual. When addressing individuals, ‘Shriman’ is used to address male members and Shrimati is used address female members in a society. In South India , mainly Shri is used to add...

According to Hindu religion, man has four goals in life. Various Hindu scriptures define the four goals as Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha. The four goals can be achieved only through Atma Jana (Self realization). Hindus believe that equal importance has to be given to the four goals. Dharma is bit tricky to define as there is no exact English definition to it. It can be loosely termed as a righteous way of living or social obligations. Perhaps the best definition of Dharma was given by Swami Chinmayananda – a ‘the Law of Being’ meaning, ‘that which makes a thing or being what it is.’ Artha can be defined as economic, social and political achievements – making of money or generating wealth. Kama can be defined as pleasurable pursuits including sexual and other enjoyments which are momentary. Fulfillment of desires. Moksha is spiritual liberation. Brahman realization. For a balanced human life one has to give importance to the four goals. Giving...

Srimad Bhagavad Gita in Bengali in PDF format for free is provided by Swami Shri Adgadanad Ji’s of Yatharth Geeta. This downloadable Bengali Bhagwad Geeta is strictly for personal use. You can only download the eighteen chapters in Bangala separately and not as a single book. The Bhagavad Gita is in PDF format and you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer. You can download the Bhagawad Gita in Bangala from this link – Bengali Bhagavad Gita. If the above file is not working then you can use this direct Google drive link to download the Gita in Bengali.

Cypress essential oil, known for its woody and fresh scent, holds deep spiritual significance in Hinduism and traditional holistic practices. Its grounding and purifying qualities resonate with ancient Vedic beliefs and rituals, where essential oils and natural plant extracts were used for physical healing and spiritual elevation. In Hindu spirituality, cypress essential oil symbolizes renewal, transition, and the flow of life, making it especially valuable during meditative practices, rituals, and spiritual healing. Here’s an expanded look at 12 spiritual and holistic benefits of cypress essential oil, along with practical day-to-day uses, its significance for well-being, and how it can affect personality, mental clarity, and spiritual growth. 12 Spiritual and Holistic Benefits of Cypress Essential Oil Promotes Mental Clarity and Focus Cypress oil is known to clear mental fog and help you focus during spiritual practices. It supports concentration, making it easier to stay mindful du...

In Hinduism, cows are deeply revered as symbols of non-violence, fertility, and motherhood, and are often associated with various deities like Lord Krishna. The act of cow worship, or Gau Pooja , is seen as a spiritual practice that is rooted in the principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) and contributes to physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Let's explore its numerous benefits, practical day-to-day solutions, and the way it shapes our personality and society. 12 Benefits of Cow Worship Promotes Compassion and Non-Violence : Revering the cow fosters a sense of compassion, non-violence ( Ahimsa ), and empathy towards all living beings. It teaches respect for life and encourages a peaceful, non-aggressive attitude. Boosts Physical Health : Products derived from cows, like milk, ghee, and yogurt, are considered sattvic (pure) foods that enhance physical vitality, digestion, and immunity. Ayurveda emphasizes the consumption of cow milk for its nutritional benefits. Enhances Mental...

Konchiravila Devi Temple is located at Konchiravila in Thiruvananthapuram District. The shrine is located around 1 km from Attukal Temple. The utsavam or 10- day annual festival is observed in Malayalam Kumbham month. The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathi - Durga and Bhadrakali. Both the deities are in standing posture in the sanctum sanctorum. The square sanctum sanctorum face north, which is very rare. The highlight of the festival is caparisoned elephants, melam and fireworks. Several unique rituals and pujas are performed during the festival period including Kuthiyottam. Traditional performing arts, music, songs and other cultural activities are held during the period. The festival ends with arattu on the final day. Upadevatas worshipped in the temple are Shiva, Ganapati and Nagas (Serpents).  Navratri (September - October is an important festival in the temple. Thrikarthika nakshatra day in Vrischikam month is another important festival here. Pongala ritual is hel...

Peringottukara Somasekhara Temple is located in Thrissur District and is around 5 km from Triprayar. The annual festival in the shrine is observed in Malayalam Kumbham month. The weeklong festival attracts scores of devotees. The Shiva Linga pratishta in the temple was performed by Sri Narayana Guru on February 11, 1919 ( kollavarsham 1094 Kumbham 9). The shrine is famous for performing rituals for departed ancestors especially on Karkidaka Vavu Bali day in Karkidakam month. This is a well maintained shrine with a nalambalam, temple pond and kodimaram. A Shivling is worshipped in a square sanctum sanctorum. During the festival period, the temple is traditionally decorated with plantain, coconut leaves, flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights. Melam, caparisoned elephants, fireworks are part of the festivities. Traditional performing arts, music and dance are staged during the period. Various unique offerings are made at the shrine during the period. The festival ends...

Kurampala Puthenkavil Bhagavathy Temple is located near Pandalam on the Adoor – Pandalam road in Pathanamthitta district, Kerala. The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. The padayani festival takes place here once in five years. The last festival was celebrated in 2021 and next will be in 2026. The festival is celebrated in the Malayalam month of Kumbham.  Kurampala Puthenkavil Bhagavathy Temple History Legend has it that Palappali Valiachan got the Puthenkavil Bhagavathy from Kodungallur temple (Avahichu Konduvarika). The Bhadrakali murti in the temple is 6 feet tall. The temple faces east. The Upa Devatas worshipped in the temple are Yakshi and Marutha. The temple is situated in the middle of a sacred grove (kavu) full of herbs, huge trees and, creepers. There is a special ezhunellippu after Makara Bharani. A special ritual known as ‘Chottu Pidikkal’ is held by Puthathu Veetukar after the Bharani ritual. After this a person enters the grove or kavu and beats Veekhu...

Lilasuka also known as Bilvamangala or Vilvamangala is the author of Krishna Karnamrita, a popular poem on Sri Krishna. There is a popular romantic story associated with Lilasuka. Lilasuka was in love with a beautiful courtesan named Chintamani. He was so infatuated with her that one day he crossed a flooded river on a stormy rainy night. He crossed the river on a corpse that was floating on the river. He mistook the corpse for a drifting piece of wood. He then climbed the walls of the house of Chintamani by means of a snake, which he mistook for a creeper. Lilasuka was brought to his senses by Chintamani, who said that such mad devotion was worthy of a higher object. He then took the life of an ascetic and completed the Krishnakarnamrita.

Aruvippuram Shiva Temple is located at Aruvippuram in Trivandrum District in Kerala. The annual festival in the temple is observed in Malayalam Kumbham month. The shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The shrine is associated with Sri Narayana Guru - the great social reformer of Kerala. The ten-day festival ends on the Mahashivratri day in Kumbham month The highlight of the festival is caparisoned elephants, melam and fireworks. Several unique rituals and pujas are performed during the festival period. Traditional performing arts, music, songs and other cultural activities are held during the period. The festival ends with arattu on the final day.

Benisagar is located on the Orissa – Jharkhand border and is around 85 km from Chaibasa. It is an Archeological Survey of India notified site and excavation works are still going on. There is no proper temple structure. Hanuman, Mata Basuri (manifestation of Goddess Durga), Ganesh and Shivling are worshipped here. Maa Basuri is depicted as killing Demon Mahishasura. The most important festival observed here is Shivratri. There is no prayer in the evening here. Fruits and sweets like laddoo are offered as Bhoga here. A huge shivling in rectangular yonipitha, murtis of Agni, Durga, Bhairava, Yamuna and Lakulisha have been found in the site. It is now believed that from 5th century to 12th century the area was important center of Shiva worship. Tantric traditions flourished here.

 In Hinduism, the relationship between food and spirituality is intricate, and while vegetarianism is often promoted as part of a sattvic (pure) lifestyle, eating meat has been practiced by various groups within Hindu society. The consumption of meat is acknowledged in certain scriptures and traditions for its spiritual benefits, particularly when it is consumed with awareness, devotion, and in line with specific rituals. Here's an expanded look at the spiritual benefits of eating meat in Hinduism , practical implications, and the impact on one’s physical, mental, and social well-being: 12 Spiritual Benefits of Eating Meat in Hinduism Balance of the Three Gunas : Hinduism speaks of three qualities or gunas : sattva (purity), rajas (passion), and tamas (inertia). Meat is often classified as rajasic or tamasic, meaning it can stimulate strength and action. For individuals leading active or warrior lifestyles, this energy is necessary for fulfilling duties in society and maintaining D...

Story of Krishna and Kaliya naag is one of the most popular incidents during Sri Krishna’s childhood. Kaliya was a five-headed snake who made Yamuna River his abode and poisoned its waters killing animals and other living beings. The story of Krishna defeating the serpent is known as Kaliya Mardan. Kaliya and his attendants took refuge in a deep pool in Yamuna to escape from Garuda, who is the sworn enemy of Snakes. Kaliya poisoned everything in the surrounding of Yamuna River. Vapours and bubbles in the river killed even birds that flew over the region. Seeing the terrible situation, Sri Krishna dived into the toxic waters. He moved fast towards the deep pool and a battle ensued between serpent attendants of Kaliya. Sri Krishna easily overpowered them and then the real battle began between Krishna and five-headed Kaliya. Krishna overpowered the powerful Kaliya and emerged from the river dancing atop the middle head of Kaliya. The dancing left the mark of Krishna’s fee...

A paksha is the moon’s fortnight – lunar fortnight. Two pakshas make a month – Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha. The fortnight during which the moon is waxing is called Shukla or Shuddha or the bright phase of moon. This begins with the end of Amavasya (No moon day) and lasts up to the end of Pournami (Purnima or full moon day). The fortnight during which the moon is waning is called Krishna or Bahula. This lasts from the end of Poornima (full moon) to end of Amavasi (No moon). Each chandramana maas or lunar month consists of both the pakshas (halves), Shukla paksha (Bright half) and Krishna Paksha (Dark half). A month in the calendars followed in North India begins with the Krishna Paksha – after the full moon or Purnima. A month in traditional calendars followed in Gujarat, Maharashtra , Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka begins with the Shukla Paksha – after Amavasi or no moon.

Book titled ‘Hinduism: beyond rituals, customs and traditions’ is written by Promod Puri. As the title indicates, the book explores the world of Hindu rituals, customs and traditions. From the Press Release of the book   Why are there so many gods and goddesses in Hinduism? Why worship an idol? Is going to temple mandatory in the faith? What impact does the caste system have on Hindu society? Why do some rituals make perfect sense while others are so vague? What are the secular and diverse characters in Hinduism? What physics principles constitute the sound of Om? What is karma and its role in our day to day lives?  These and more subjects are eloquently dealt with in the just released book titled "Hinduism: beyond rituals, customs and traditions" by Vancouver-based writer Promod Puri.  The 130-page book on Hinduism written in a concise and clear manner is an easy reading of all aspects of Hinduism for every level of reader. Also, it is for those whose ...

In Hinduism, cowrie shells (also known as kaudi ) hold immense spiritual significance and are often associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. They are used in various rituals, ceremonies, and are believed to possess magical and spiritual powers. The belief in their ability to attract wealth, ward off negative energies, and promote good health has been passed down through generations. Below are the benefits, spiritual importance, and the effects of wearing cowrie shells. 12 Spiritual and Practical Benefits of Wearing Cowrie Shells: Attracts Wealth and Prosperity : Cowrie shells are closely associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth. It is believed that wearing cowrie shells helps to attract financial abundance and material prosperity. These shells are often kept in money lockers or worn to invite prosperity. Protection Against Negative Energies : Cowrie shells are believed to act as a protective talisman, shielding the wearer from evil forces and n...

Kiriti is one among the ten names of Arjuna in the Mahabharata. Arjuna narrates the meaning of his names to Uttara, son of Virata. Kaurava army had stolen the cows of Virata. To get them back, the son of Virata went to battlefield with Arjuna, who was disguised as Brihannala, as his charioteer. On seeing the Kuru army, the prince is frightened and attempts to escape from the battleground. Brihannada stops him and reveals that he is Arjuna and he will fight against the Kauravas. But the prince is not ready to believe Brihannada. He then wants to know the various names of Arjuna. To convince the frightened prince, Arjuna narrates all his ten names and how he got them. Arjuna in the Mahabharata is known as Kiriti because he fiercely fought and defeated the Danavas. Impressed with his valor, Indra gave him a diadem, as radiant as the sun. He is known as Kiriti because he wears the ornamental jeweled headdress signifying sovereignty. This incident is mentioned in the G...

Mangal, or Mars, is the third among the nine plants in Hindu astrology and is depicted as having a red-complexioned body and four arms. Hindus believe that Mangal helps in solving financial problems and removes poverty. He is also believed to help in curing disease related to skin and eyes.  He is also believed to help a devotee from the bad activities of enemies. In Vedic astrology, Mangal is known as Angaraka or fire. Thus Mangal is adorned with red color clothes and is offered red flowers. Tuesday or Mangalwar is chosen to propitiate Mangal. The vehicle or Vahana of Mangal is Bhed or Sheep. Of his four hands, two hands are in Abhaya Mudra and Var Mudra. Other two hands hold trishul (trident) and gada (Mace). In a person’s horoscope, Mangal stays for seven years. He is also the lord of Mesha Rashi (Aries) and Vrischika Rashi (Scorpio).

Kapileshwar Jiu Temple, believed to be more than 2400 years old, is located on National Highway 33 at Kokpara in Jharkhand. The temple is of great importance from historical and religious point of view. The present temple structure built in 1955 is a simple one. The original temple, which is located below the present shrine, was of 20feet width and was destroyed by Kala Pahad. Legend has it that cows used to shed all their milk at a particular spot in the region. When the place was dug up the Shivling was revealed. The Shivling that is worshipped in the temple is 3 feet by 3.5 feet. A nandi faces the Shivling. There is a six feet high murti of Goddess Durga in the shrine. Hanuman, Ganesha, Kartikeya, Lakshmi and Saraswati are visible on the side panels of the huge murti. Shivratri is the most important festival here and Shravan month attracts thousands of devotees who arrive to offer water to the Shivling. Mondays and Poda Ashtami are important dates here. Hundred...

Kangazha Mahadeva Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it is located on Kottayam - Manimala route and is around 20 km from Changanassery in Kottayam District in Kerala. The annual festival or utsavam is observed in Malayalam Kumbham month. The 8-day annual festival begins on Moolam Nakshatram. Shivratri is another important festival in the temple. The deity worshipped in the temple is swayambhu. It is believed that the Shivling was discovered when tribals in the area where sharpening their sword. The stone used for sharpening started bleeding. The Shivling was then installed by Kanva Maharshi. The main deity faces west. The Upa Devatas worshipped in the temple are Sastha, Durga, Ganapathy, Nagam and Rakshas. The Pradosham falling just before Mahashivratri is of great importance in the temple ( കങ്ങഴ പ്രദോഷം) . The temple is traditionally decorated with plantain, coconut leaves, flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights. Melam, traditional Kerala temple music with five inst...

In Hinduism, cows are revered as sacred animals and embody the nurturing aspect of nature, akin to a mother figure (often called "Gau Mata"). Feeding cows is considered an act of immense virtue and spiritual significance. This practice is believed to bring good fortune, spiritual growth, and a deeper connection with divine energies. Here is a detailed exploration of the benefits and significance of feeding cows, along with practical tips, its effects on well-being, personality, and mantras to chant. 12 Spiritual Benefits of Feeding Cows Attracts Prosperity and Wealth : Feeding cows, especially on Fridays, is said to invite prosperity into the home. The cow is associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, and pleasing her brings material abundance. Removes Past Sins (Paap Nashak) : One of the most significant spiritual benefits is that it helps in cleansing negative karma from past lives. Offering food to cows purifies the soul and lessens the burden of past wrongdoing...

Iconographic representations of Goddess Ganga vary from region to region. Local traditions depict Murti, or idol, of Goddess Ganga based on their local beliefs. In Hindu Temples, river Goddess Ganga is depicted as a young maiden. She holds an overflowing pot of water. She travels on an aquatic animal known as Makara – similar to crocodile. Symbolically, this murti conveys the idea of abundance and fertility, which nourishes the living beings. In some images Goddess Ganga is also represented as a mermaid wearing a crown and bearing on her forehead markings of sacred ash. In this form She is associated with Shiva. In some images she is depicted as a beautiful woman with the lower half of the body being flowing water. This symbolizes her cleansing and purifying attributes. Her popular emblems are water pot, flying whist and lotus. Her Vahana or Vehicle is Makara – a hybrid aquatic animal – it has the body of a crocodile, tail of a fish with feathery fronds, depic...

Kaushika Purana is a minor Purana or Upapurana. Kaushik Puranam is not mentioned in any of the Mahapuranas. The reference of the text is found in the Dharmashastras. Kaushika Purana is named after Kaushika – Sage Vishwamitra. The name Kaushika as Sage Vishwamitra was the descendant of Kusha.  Kausika comes in the third generation from Kusha, i.e, Kusha, Kusanabha, Gadhi and Vishwamitra. The Rishi was a towering personality in the Kaushika Purana, as he had become Brahmarishi by the virtue of his deeds, though by birth he was of Kshatriya origin. The only reference to the Purana is found in New Catalogus Catalogorum of the Madras University, Chennai. The legends and stories of Chandal devotees are narrated in this Purana through the dialogues between Bhumi and Varaha. The text is not currently available in printed form and even the manuscripts are not traceable. As per New Catalogus Catalogrum of Madras University, a Telugu version of the purana was publish...

In Hinduism, cow dung is considered highly sacred and pure due to its connection to the cow, which is revered as a holy and maternal figure (Gaumata). Cow dung has been used for centuries in various rituals, religious ceremonies, and day-to-day activities. Burning dried cow dung, also known as "Gobar," has spiritual, environmental, and health-related benefits. Below is a detailed exploration of these benefits, the importance of cow dung in Hinduism, and how it can affect our overall well-being. 1. Purification of the Environment Burning cow dung purifies the air by releasing natural compounds like phenols and disinfectants, creating a healthier environment. It’s believed to have anti-pollutant and anti-bacterial properties that cleanse the surroundings from negative energies and harmful pathogens. 2. Repelling Negative Energies In Hinduism, burning cow dung mixed with herbs and ghee is said to repel negative energies and evil spirits. The smoke produced during burning is beli...

Uthralikavu Pooram is the annual festival observed in Sri Ruthira Mahakalikavu Temple in Thrissur District in Kerala. Uthralikkavu Pooram 2025 date is February 25. The famous pooram festival in the shrine is observed on the second Tuesday in Kumbham month. The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Kali. The temple is located at Paruthipra near Wadakkanchery.  Uthralikavu Pooram is one of the famous Vela festivals in Central Kerala. The kodiyettam or flag hoisting at Uthralikavu temple takes place on the pooram festival day at Thiruvanikkavu temple, which is around 4 km from Uthralikavu. The belief is that the deities worshipped in Uthralikavu and Thiruvanikkavu are sisters. The flag hoisting takes place on the Tuesday after the first Friday in Kumbham month. The festival concludes on the next Tuesday. The famous Uthralikavu Pooram and numerous other rituals and festivities take place on the last day of the eight day festival. Three deshams – Enkakkad, Wadakkanchery and Kumaranellur...

Story of Chandesa, an ardent devotee of Shiva, who became a Gana is a popular legend from South India . Shiva blessing Chandesa is popular sculpture at the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple in Tamil Nadu. Young Vicharasarman lived with his father, Yajnadatta, and mother, Kasyapagotra, in Seynalur Village on the banks of Manni River in Chola country. One day Young Vicharasarman witnessed a cowherd brutally beating a cow. Incensed at the behavior , the young boy took upon himself the duty of tending the cows of the village. From that day the cows became happy and began to yield more milk than before. Vicharasarman seeing that the extra milk was wasted collected it and offered it to Shivling made of sand. The cowherd who had lost his job due to Young Vicharasarman complained about him wasting milk on sand mounds to villagers. At first the villagers did not bother about the complaint as they were receiving their regular quota of milk from their cows. One day Yajna...