--> Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts from January, 2016


Shri Symbol in Hinduism - Meaning of Sri

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

Four Goals in life in Hinduism – Dharma – Artha – Kama – Moksha

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

Bhagavad Gita in Bengali in pdf - Download for Free

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.

Konchiravila Devi Temple Festival And Pongala

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 held he

Peringottukara Somasekhara Temple Information - Festival - Sree Narayana Ashram - Vavu Bali Rituals

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 Padayani Festival And Adavi Ritual

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 Che

Story of Lilasuka

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 Festival

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 in Jharkhand – Hindu Worship and Temples at Benisagar

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.

Krishna and Kaliya Naag – Story of Sri Krishna and Kaliya Mardan

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

What is Paksha in a Hindu Calendar?

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 – Hinduism: Beyond Rituals, Customs and Traditions

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 knowledge

Kiriti – Why Arjuna in the Mahabharat is also known as Kiriti?

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 Go –

About Mangal in Hinduism – Mangal or Mars

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 at Kokpara in Jharkhand

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 - Festival - History

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

Symbolism in the Murti - Idol - of Goddess Ganga – Significance of Iconographic Representation of Goddess Ganga

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 – Information about Kaushik Puranam

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 published i

Uthralikavu Pooram 2024 Date – Sri Ruthira Mahakalikavu Temple Pooram Festival

Uthralikavu Pooram is the annual festival observed in Sri Ruthira Mahakalikavu Temple in Thrissur District in Kerala. Uthralikkavu Pooram 2024 date is February 27. 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 – s

Story of Chandesa – an ardent devotee of Shiva who became a Gana

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 Yajnad

Natural Holi Colors Using Temple Flowers by Avacayam – Society for Child Development

Avacayam collects used flowers from bulk users like temples and hotels and converts it to consumer products that are deeply embedded in our culture like Holi color, Rangoli, Agarbati while employing people with disability along the entire supply chain. Avacayam program is a skill development and income generating program for persons with disability and a movement of environment conservation. Our mission is to support people with disability improve their income. For this to happen in a sustained manner and to slowly work towards ending this inequality Avacayam require your involvement and support. Each time you buy the products made by the 4869 persons with disability working in 6 states of India, you help in ending the grinding cycle of poverty. Temple Flower Colors: Rs 60 per 100 grams. Colors available: Red, Pink, Yellow, Orange, Green and Blue Address Shivam Manas Society for Child development, D-13, Kamla Nagar, Delhi-110007 Ph:9968353865 Find more about

Sarangpur Hanuman Temple near Nizamabad in Telangana

Sarangpur Hanuman Temple is located near Nizamabad in Telangana. The shrine is dedicated to Hanuman, the greatest devotee of Bhagavan Sri Ram. Sarangpur Hanuman temple is around 8 km from Nizamabad. Samarta Ramadas, Guru of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, laid the foundation stone of the shrine. The Hanuman Temple is spread over a total of 1400 acres land and the temple is situated atop a rocky hill. The murti of Hanuman is carved out of a large rock atop the hill. The shrine is built around the murti of Hanuman. 

Adasa Temple – Adasa Ganapati Mandir near Nagpur

Adasa Temple is located at Adasa Village , which is around 43 km northwest of Nagpur on Saoner- Kalmeshwar road in Maharashtra . The shrine is dedicated to Ganesha and is popularly known as Adasa Ganapati Mandir. It is one of the one of the eight Ashta-Vinayaks in Vidarbha. The main murti of Ganesh worshipped in the temple is 12 feet tall and 7 feet wide. It is a swayambhu murti or one which appeared on its own. The temple is spread over 10 hectares of land and there are nearly 20 temples in the Adasa Temple property. The temple is located on an open ground with breath taking views. Nearby atop a hill is a popular temple dedicated to Shiva – it has three swayambhu shivlings. The temple attracts thousands of devotees during Ganesh Jayanti, Ganesh Chaturthi and Angarak Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat. Special pujas and rituals are held in the temple. Adasa Ganapati is a wish fulfilling Ganesha.

Aluva Shiva Temple – Aluva Manappuram Shiva Temple in Kerala - Festival - History

A unique shrine located on the banks of Periyar River in Kerala, Aluva Shiva Temple is one of the 108 Shiva Temples in Kerala. The Swayambu Shivling worshipped here is not enshrined in a sanctum sanctorum. There is only a temporary structure. Aluva Manappuram Shiva Temple is located around 18 from Ernakulam North Railway Station. It is believed that there used to be a temple located here which was built by Lord Parashuram. This shrine was destroyed by a flood. Later Vilwamangalam Swamiyar built a temple which was also destroyed by a flood. After this, it was decided that it is divine wish that there should be no shrine built here. In certain years, the entire temporary shrine gets submerged in water. This is known as natural Arattu – bathing of the deity. The naturally formed Shivling worshipped here is small and faces east. There is also a murti of Nandi in front of the Shrine. The main festival observed in the shrine is the Aluva Sivarathri. The annual festival be

Kashipuradishwari form of Goddess Parvati

In Kashipuradishwari form, Goddess Parvati rules the city of Kashi or Varanasi or Benaras along with her husband Shiva. Kashipuradishwari means the Queen of Kashi. Goddess Parvati is worshipped in Kashi as Goddess Annapurna. She is the giver of food. She nourishes all living beings. Even Shiva stands before her with a bowl asking for food. The name Kashipuradishwari is mentioned in the Sri Sri Annapurna Stotram.

Death Anniversary of Mannam – Mannathu Padmanabhan

Mannathu Padmanabhan (January 2, 1878 - February 25, 1970) was a freedom fighter, social reformer and founder of NSS (Nair Services Society). Death Anniversary of Mannam is annually observed on February 25. In 2024, it is the 54th death anniversary of Mannathu Padmanabha Pillai. To uplift the status of the Nair community in Kerala, he established Nair Service Society in 1914. He revived the Karayogams, village societies, which led to more unity among the Nair community. He fought for social equality by opening his family temple to irrespective of caste. He fought against untouchability by participating in the famous Vaikom Satyagraha and Guruvayur Temple entry. He was one of the architects of the famous Vimochana Samaram, which led to the ouster of the first communist ministry in Kerala in 1959. He helped in founding numerous colleges and schools across the state.

Parippally Kodimoottil Sri Bhadrakali Temple Annual Festival and Pongala

Kodimoottil Sri Bhadrakali Temple is located at Parippally in Kollam District in Kerala. The 10-day annual festival or Utsavam in the temple is observed in Malayalam Kumbham month and begins with Pongala ritual. The temple festival attracts hundreds of devotees. The festival is famous for Paripally Gajamela (parading of nearly 50 elephants). It is held on the Ashwathy nakshatra in Kumbha Masam. The Upa Devatas worshipped in the temple are Shiva, Ganapathy, Navagrahas and Nagas (sarpam).  Various unique offerings are made at the shrine during the period. Pongala ritual comprises of preparing ‘prasad’ for the deity outside the shrine. Women cook rice and jaggery in earthen pots and they offer it to the Goddess. They also cook different type of sweet dishes with rice powder and jaggery. Coconut tree fronds are used to cook the ‘prasad.’ The temple is traditionally decorated with plantain, coconut leaves, flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights for the occasion. Traditional

Veer Savarkar Punyadin – Death Anniversary of Veer Savarkar

Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (1883-1966) is an inspirational force for millions of Indians. He was luminous visionary, a supreme patriot and a great social reformer. His punyadin or death anniversary is observed on February 26. In 2025, it is the 59th death anniversary of Veer Savarkar. Veer Savarkar was born on May 28, 1883, in the village of Bhagpur near Nasik. At a very early age he lost both his parents. Ganesh (Babarao), his elder brother, was a strong source of influence in his life. He formed a couple of organizations to fight against the British. He was arrested for fighting against the British Government India and also for his books especially “The Indian War of Independence 1857.” Veer Savarkar was sentenced to jail in the Andamans. He was later transferred to Ratnagiri jail. The book ‘Hindutva’ was written in Ratnagiri jail. In 1937 Savarkar was made the president of the Hindu Mahasabha. He wrote 19 books on various topics mostly related to Indian Independence a

Srivari Seva – A Volunteer Program at Tirumala Tirupati Balaji Temple

Srivari Seva is a highly successful volunteer program at Tirumala Tirupati Balaji Temple. In the volunteer program, pilgrims visiting Tirupati Temple get an opportunity to do service in the various departments of the temple to help in the smooth flow of pilgrims and their needs. Nearly 500,000 devotees have participated in the Srivari Seva so far. Participants can do the work of their choice. They can help in manning the queue lines both inside and outside the temple. Help the staff in the kitchen and at the Nithya Annadanam complex. Assist staff at the free tonsuring area. Assist in stringing flowers required for the temple. They can also assist in the laddu selling counters. Devotees are also allowed to help in departments like vigilance, health, medical, bookstalls and garden. Some devotees also get opportunity to work at the Parakamani center where the hundi offerings are sorted. In return for their service, all Srivari volunteers get darshan of Venkateswara on

Kera Mata Temple near Chakradharpur in Jhardhand – Kera Ma Mandir

Kera Mata Temple is located on the banks of Brahmini River in Kera Village and is around 10 km from Chakradharpur in Jharkhand. Believed to have been built around 300 years ago, the shrine is dedicated to Ma Bhagavati (Goddess Shakti) and was established by the King of Kera. She is also known as Sadarupani. The black murti of Maa Kera is 7 inches in height and is made of Ashtadhatu. She wears a silver crown and has a chattri made of silver above her head. There is nothing noteworthy about the architecture of the temple. A pillar in front of the shrine is noted for a four-headed lion. Sculptures and painting adorn the walls of the shrine. They narrate the story of the various incarnation of Mother Goddess. The most important fair and festival in the temple is organized during Chaitra Shukla Paksha (March/April. Other important festivals are Navratri and Durga Puja.

Goddess Vigneshwari Devi

Goddess Vigneshwari Devi is a form of Goddess Shakti worshipped in South India . This form is quite similar to Ganesha. This form of Goddess Shakti is also known as Ganeshwari, Sri Vanja Kalpalata Maha Ganapati and Ganeshini. Those people facing delay in marriage, marital problems and diseases find solutions and cure after praying to Vigneshwari Devi. Goddess Vigneshwari Devi has four hands – one in blessing posture, another in boon giving posture. The other two hands hold noose and conch. There are not many exclusive temples dedicated to Goddess Vigneshwari.

Apam Napat – About Vedic God Apam Napat – Equated with Hindu God Agni

Apam Napat is a deity mentioned in the Rig Veda. In Vedic text Apam Napat dwell in waters, emanating brilliance and is surrounded by water in the form of young maidens who purify him. He should be propitiated before drawing water. He is sometimes equated with Hindu God Agni. He is golden in form and appearance and is always shining. He travels on steeds. His movement is compared to the swiftness of thoughts. His food is ghee. Rig Veda X, 30, 3-4  Verse dedicated to Apam Napat –  Adhvaryus, go to the waters, to the ocean! Sacrifice to Apam Napat with the offering! My he give you today the well purified water…   Thou shinest without fuel amidst the waters, thou whom the priests revere in sacrifices, Apam Napat, give the sweet waters by which Indra is strengthened for heroism.   Apam Napat, then, is the essence and the custodian of the force that the essence represents. The brilliance with which he glows, a pure divine radiation, illumines those that honor him. Due t

Kozhimamparambu Pooram - Cheruthuruthy Kozhimanparambu Bhagavathy temple festival

Kozhimamparambu Pooram is the annual festival observed in Cheruthuruthy Kozhimanparambu Bhagavathy temple in Thrissur District in Kerala. The famous pooram festival in the shrine is observed in Kumbham month. The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathi.  The highlight of the festival is caparisoned elephants, melam and fireworks. Tholpavakoothu is performed during the annual festival. Kala and Kuthira (effigies of ox and horses) from various desams arrive on the pooram day to the temple. Poothan and thira are also performed on the occasion. Several unique rituals and pujas are performed during the festival period. Traditional performing arts, music, songs, fireworks and other cultural activities are held during the period. The festival ends with arattu on the final day. Seven desams of the region Panjal, Pudussery, Nedumpura, Cheruthuruthy, Pallikkal, Thazhapra - Vettikkattiri and Attoor participate in Kozhimamparambu Pooram .

Ettumanoor Temple – Information about Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a very popular shrine in Kerala, South India. The origin of the temple is traced to the Ramayana period. It is believed that the murti worshipped in the shrine was installed by Khara. Ettumanoor Temple is located around 13 km from Kottayam town. Ettumanoor Railway Station is an important stop on the Kottayam – Ernakulam Railway line. Bhagavan Shiva is worshipped here in Aghoramurti form. Another belief is that Shiva is here in the Samharamurti form of Sharaba (read more about Sharaba form of Shiva ). Daily there are five pujas. On Shivratri day there are 18 pujas. The subsidiary deities worshipped in the temple are Ganesha (inside the main sanctum), Mother Goddess Shakti, Dakshinamurti, Sastha and Yakshi. Bhagavan Vishnu is worshipped outside the main shrine. The main srikovil is circular in shape. The three-foot Shivling faces west. A golden form of Shiva in human form is placed in front of the main Shivling after

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple near Kottayam in Kerala

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Kerala and was also the ground zero of the famous Temple Entry Proclamation in Kerala before independence. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Madevar temple and Vaikom are mentioned in the Bhargava Purana and Sanalkumara Samhita.  Legend has it that Vyaghrapada Maharshi got darshan of Shiva here. The name of the place is shortened version of Saint Vyaghrapada. Three forms of  Vaikkathappan Shiva gives darshan to his devotees here in three forms In the morning as Dakshinamurti In the noon as Kiratha Murti In the evening, he is the Lord of Kailash who is seated in a happy mood with his family – Goddess Parvati, Ganesha and Kartik. Sacred Bhasma at Vaikom Mahadeva Temple  The most important Prasad at the temple is bhasma or ashes. It is taken from the kitchen in the temple. It is believed that Lord Shiva comes here in disguise and cooks food. Devotees believe that the bhasma has power to cure poison related p

Why Ganga is Known as Jhanvi?

Jhanvi is one among the numerous names of Ganga River. Here is the reason why Ganga is known as  Jahnavi .  King Bhagirath  performed intense tapas to bring Ganga down on earth to wash away the sins of his forefathers. Finally, Bhagirath succeeded in bringing Ganga down from heaven to earth. Ganga followed the footsteps of Bhagirath. He led her down the mountains into the plains.  The feisty Ganga continued to flow with a powerful current and she flooded the hermitage of Sage Jahnu - present day Ajgaivinath Temple at Sultanganj in Bhagalpur in Bihar. The sacred fire was extinguished and all the items of the ashram were destroyed. Sage Jahnu became furious. He chanted a mantra and sipped some water from Ganga. This resulted in the disappearance of Ganga. A worried King Bhagirath explained to the sage about the need for Ganga to flow on earth. Sage Jahnu was moved by the plight of King Bhagirath and he allowed the river to flow from his left ear. After th

Kalpadi Tithi

Kalpadi Tithi is the starting of a day of Brahma. A day of Brahma is equal to 4,320,000,000 human years. There has been several Kalpas. At the end of a Kalpa there is the cosmic flood which marks the end of a cycle of creation. Then it is the night time of Brahma. The cycle of creation again begins on a Kalpadi Tithi. Kalpadi Tithis are Chaitra Shukla Paksha Pratipada – Yugadi Chaitra Shukla Paksha Panchami Chaitra Shukla Paksha Tritiya Kartik Shukla Paksha Saptami Margashirsh Shukla Paksha Navami Magh Shukla Paksha Trayodasi Falgun Shukla Tritiya It is considered highly meritorious to perform Shradh and Tarpan rituals on Kalpadi Tithis. Related Concept of Time in Hinduism – Trivia

Bhairavnath Yatra at Varud in Khatav, Maharashtra

Varud Bhairavnath Yatra is annually held in Magh month. This is the most important annual fair and festival at the Bhairavnath Temple at Varud in Khatav, Maharashtra. Bhairavnath Yatra 2025 date is February 12. Bhairavnath Mandir is an important worship place in the region and attracts hundreds of devotees. The temple is beautifully decorated during the period traditionally with flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights. The day is of importance to the villagers. People from nearby towns and villages arrive to participate in this annual fair and festival. Important rituals are held during the period. Varud Bhairavnath Yatra is annually held on Magh Purnima tithi or the full moon day in Magh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra.

Story – Ravana’s Devotion for Shiva Was Not Pure

Ravana was an ardent devotee of Shiva and the Shiva Tandava Stotram composed by Him is a prime example of his devotion to Mahadeva. But the devotion of Ravan was not pure. His devotion was to satisfy his never ending lust, passion, anger, jealousy and power. There is a story in the scriptures that prove that Ravana’s devotion was not pure. Goddess Parvati always wanted to settle down and be part of society. She used to point out to Shiva how Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi resided in Vaikunta amidst all pleasures. Shiva used to live in the Himalayas in cold weather, sometimes under trees, and sometimes under scorching heat. He was far away from society. Once when Goddess Parvati insisted on building a palace, Shiva agreed to it on one condition that all rituals associated with moving into new home will be performed by Ravana who is an expert in all rituals. Ravana came and performed all the rituals at the end of the ceremony the owner of the house had to give daskhina –

Tripunithura Uthram 2024 Date - Thripunithura Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple Annual Festival

Tripunithura Uthram is one of the most important festival observed in a calendar year at the Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple at Tripunithura in Kerala. Tripunithura Uthram 2024 date is February 26. It is observed on the Uthram nakshatram in Kumbham month as per Malayalam calendar. Para Utsavam begins a couple of dates after the flag hoisting. The Para Utsavam ends with Arattu. Tripunithura Arattu 2024 date is March 8. The festival, also known as Uthram Thirunal, is famous for Poornathrayeesa sangeetholsavam and Panchari melam. The festival is observed on the birth anniversary of Lord Poornathrayeesa. Another major highlight of the festival is the sumptuous feast at the Oottupura Malika. The festival begins with the procession of Sree Poornathrayeesa atop a caparisoned elephant. The rituals conclude with appam nivedyam and Lakshmi Narayana Vilakku. Pishari Kovil Amma visits Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple for a combined procession which is termed as Lakshmi Narayana Vilakku (Go

Thalavoor Pooram – Trikkonnamarkode Sri Durga Devi Temple Pooram Festival

Thalavoor Pooram is the annual festival or utsavam held at the Trikkonnamarkode Sri Durga Devi Temple. It is observed in Kumbham month. The shrine is located at Thalavoor in Kollam District in Kerala. The shrine is located around 28 km from Kollam town.  The annual festival is observed on the pooram nakshatra 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. The other important rituals and festivals in the temple are Thalavoor Pongala (first Sunday of Makara month), Thaipooyam Mahotsavam, Navratri festival - Vidyarambham, Sashti Viratham, Naranga Vilakku (last Sunday of Malayalam months), Vilakku Puja (last Friday of all Malayalam months). The Upa Devatas worshipped in the temple include Murugan and Subramanya. 

Machattu Mamangam 2024 date – Machattu Thiruvanikavu Temple Festival

Machattu Thiruvanikavu Temple is located at Vadakkencherry in Thrissur district in Kerala. The annual festival or utsavam observed here is known as Machattu Mamangam. The five-day festival is famous for traditional arts forms and pageantry. Machattu Mamangam 2024 date is February 20.  Machattu Thiruvanikavu Temple is dedicated to Mother Goddess Shakti. Mamangam is observed in Kumbham month and it is a five day festival. The main procession of Machattu Mamangam is held on the final day. In the procession, richly decorated effigies of horses called kuthira kolams are ceremoniously brought to the temple by the devotees as offerings. These vibrantly adorned effigies are welcomed by the people with cheers. Caparisoned elephants accompanied by chenda melam converge at the temple courtyard in the evening, unfolding an extravagant spectacle.

Sthavareshwar Mahadev in Ujjain – Story of Sthavareshwar Form of Shiva

Sthavareshwar Mahadev is worshiped in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the 84 forms of Shiva worshiped in Ujjain. It is believed that worshipping Sthavareshwar Form of Shiva will help in overcoming all difficulties due to the bad positioning of planets or graham in a person’s horoscope. The temple dedicated to Sthavareshwar Mahadev is located near the Shani Temple at Nai Peth. This form of Shiva is associated with Shani Bhagavan who is also known as Sthavar. Sthavareshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84 Shiva Temples in Ujjain and it is the 50th temple visited during the parikarama of Shiavalayas here. Story of Sthavareshwar Mahadev Samja wife of Surya, the sun god, could not bear the heat of her husband. To escape from the heat, she deputed another woman who looked like her in her place. Surya thought her to be his wife and they had a son. This was Shani. He created troubles for all living beings including Devas. To find a solution, Devas approached Shiva.

Kalbhairav Yatra at Rile in Shirala in Maharashtra – Rile Kalbhairav Temple Festival

Rile Kalbhairav Yatra is annually observed in Magh month. The yatra is the main festival and fair at the Kalbhairav Temple at Rile in Shirala , Maharashtra. The shrine is dedicated to Hindu God Shiva. Rile Kalbhairav Yatra 2025 date is February 14. Hundreds of people participate in the annual festival at Shri Kalbhairav Mandir. A fair and festival is held during the period and it attracts scores of devotees from nearby villages and town. The main rituals associated with rural festivals are followed here too. Rile Kalbhairav Yatra is annually observed on Magh Krishna Paksha Dwitiya Tithi or the second day during the waning phase of moon in Magh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra. 

Kalbhairavnath Yatra at Bilur in Jath in Maharashtra – Bilur Kal Bhairavnath Temple Festival

Bilur Kalbhairavnath Yatra is annually observed in Magh month. The yatra is the main festival and fair at the Kaal Bhairavnath Temple at Bilur in Jath, Maharashtra. The shrine is dedicated to Hindu God Shiva. Bilur Kalbhairavnath Yatra 2025 date is February 14. Hundreds of people participate in the annual festival at Shri Kalbhairavnath Mandir. A fair and festival is held during the period and it attracts scores of devotees from nearby villages and town. The main rituals associated with rural festivals are followed here too. Bilur Kalbhairavnath Yatra is annually observed on Magh Krishna Paksha Dwitiya Tithi or the second day during the waning phase of moon in Magh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra. 

Loknathswami Punyatithi at Pune

Loknath Swami Punyatithi is annually observed in Magh month. It is the death anniversary of Loknath Swami. The day is of significance to his followers in Pune. Loknath Swami Punyatithi 2025 date is February 15. There is not much information about this pious soul. Loknath Swami Punyatithi is held on Magh Krishna Paksha Tritiya tithi or the third day during the waning phase of moon in Magh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra.

Kedarnath Yatra at Keloli in Patan

Keloli Kedarnath Yatra is annually held in Magh month. This is the most important annual fair and festival at the Kedarnath Temple at Keloli in Patan, Maharashtra. Keloli Kedarnath Yatra 2025 date is February 13. Kedarnath Mandir is an important worship place in the region and attracts scores of devotees. The temple is beautifully decorated during the period traditionally with flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights. The day is of importance to the villagers. People from nearby towns and villages arrive to participate in this annual fair and festival. Important rituals are held during the period. Keloli Kedarnath Yatra is annually held on Magh Krishna Paksha Pratipada tithi or the first day during the waning phase of moon in Magh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra.

Janhavi Devi Yatra at Erandoli in Miraj

Erandoli Janhavi Devi Yatra is annually held in Magh month. This is the most important annual fair and festival at the Jahnavi Devi Temple at Erandoli in Miraj, Maharashtra. Janhavi Devi Yatra 2025 date is February 13. Janhavi Devi Mandir is an important worship place in the region and attracts scores of devotees. The temple is beautifully decorated during the period traditionally with flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights. The day is of importance to the villagers. People from nearby towns and villages arrive to participate in this annual fair and festival. Important rituals are held during the period. Janhavi Devi Yatra is annually held on Magh Krishna Paksha Pratipada tithi or the first day during the waning phase of moon in Magh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra.

Nattika Iyyani Temple Festival near Triprayar

Nattika Iyyani Temple is located at Nattika near Triprayar in Kerala. The annual festival is observed in Kumbham month as per Malayalam calendar.  Various unique offerings are made at the shrine during the period. The temple is traditionally decorated with plantain, coconut leaves, flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights for the occasion. Traditional performing arts, music and dance are staged during the period. Caparisoned elephants, melam, fireworks and sheevali are part of the festival.

Devi Sati Yatra Utsav at Malond in Malvan, Maharashtra

Devi Sati Yatra Utsav is annually held in Magh month. This is the most important annual fair and festival at the Devi Sati Temple at Malond in Malvan, Maharashtra. Devi Sati Yatra 2025 date is February 12. Devi Sati Mandir is an important worship place in the region. The temple is beautifully decorated during the period traditionally with flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights. The day is of importance to the villagers. People from nearby towns and villages arrive to participate in this annual fair and festival. Important rituals are held during the period. Devi Sati Yatra is annually held on Magh Purnima tithi or the full moon day in Magh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra.

Bhairavnath Yatra at Masur in Karad, Maharashtra

Masur Bhairavnath Yatra is annually held in Magh month. This is the most important annual fair and festival at the Bhairavnath Temple at Masur in Karad, Maharashtra. Bhairavnath Yatra 2025 date is February 12. Bhairavnath Mandir is an important worship place in the region and attracts hundreds of devotees. The temple is beautifully decorated during the period traditionally with flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights. The day is of importance to the villagers. People from nearby towns and villages arrive to participate in this annual fair and festival. Important rituals are held during the period. Masur Bhairavnath Yatra is annually held on Magh Purnima tithi or the full moon day in Magh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra.

Bhairavnath Yatra at Medad in Malshiras, Maharashtra

Medad Bhairavnath Yatra is annually held in Magh month. This is the most important annual fair and festival at the Bhairavnath Temple at Medad in Malshiras ,Maharashtra. Bhairavnath Yatra 2025 date is February 12. Bhairavnath Mandir is an important worship place in the region and attracts hundreds of devotees. The temple is beautifully decorated during the period traditionally with flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights. The day is of importance to the villagers. People from nearby towns and villages arrive to participate in this annual fair and festival. Important rituals are held during the period. Medad Bhairavnath Yatra is annually held on Magh Purnima tithi or the full moon day in Magh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra.

Waghjai Devi Yatra at Goshatwadi in Patan, Maharashtra

Goshatwadi Waghjai Devi Yatra is annually held in Magh month. This is the most important annual fair and festival at the Waghjai Devi Temple at Goshatwadi in Patan, Maharashtra. Waghjai Devi Yatra 2025 date is February 12. Waghjai Devi Mandir is an important worship place in the region. The temple is beautifully decorated during the period traditionally with flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights. The day is of importance to the villagers. People from nearby towns and villages arrive to participate in this annual fair and festival. Important rituals are held during the period. Waghjai Devi Yatra is annually held on Magh Purnima tithi or the full moon day in Magh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra.

Renuka Yatra at Julewadi in Tasgaon

Julewadi Renuka Yatra is annually held in Magh month. This is the most important annual fair and festival at the Renuka Devi Temple at Julewadi in Tasgaon, Maharashtra. Renuka Yatra 2025 date is February 12. Renuka Mandir is an important worship place in the region. The temple is beautifully decorated during the period traditionally with flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights. The day is of importance to the villagers. People from nearby towns and villages arrive to participate in this annual fair and festival. Important rituals are held during the period. Julewadi Renuka  Yatra is annually held on Magh Purnima tithi or the full moon day in Magh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra.

Mahalaxmi Yatra at Piliv in Malshiras

Mahalaxmi Yatra is annually held in Magh month. This is the most important annual fair and festival at the Mahalaxmi Devi Temple at Piliv in Malshiras ,Maharashtra. Mahalaxmi Yatra 2025 date is February 12. Mahalaxmi Mandir is an important worship place in the region. The temple is beautifully decorated during the period traditionally with flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights. The day is of importance to the villagers. People from nearby towns and villages arrive to participate in this annual fair and festival. Important rituals are held during the period. Mahalaxmi Yatra is annually held on Magh Purnima tithi or the full moon day in Magh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra.

Kirtimukha in Hinduism

Kirtimukha is a monstrous lion-face motif. In Hinduism, it glorifies the prowess of Rudra Shiva, Sodra and Agni or the king. In Hindu temple architecture, Kirtimukha was adopted as a decorative motif or pattern and to beautify the cornice moldings, doorways or other portions of the facade of the chaitya hall. The terms pacavaktra, harivaktra, and kirtivaktra are synonyms of kirtimukha Originally, kirtimukha meant a large chaitya window pattern or the big round opening to the interior caitya-mandapa or the cave of a temple with which the excavation or hollowing out of the rock started and remained as a conspicuous part of the entire artwork. The earliest reference to Kirtimukha in Hindu religion is found in the Puranas. It is mentioned in Padma Purana (sa ca kirtimukha nama pingalo jatilo mahan Uttara Khanda XI 36 - 43 Patala Khanda CXII). Two Sanskrit words, kirti (glory) and mukha (face) are joined to convey a different meaning - to denote decorative lion-ace on the facade of ea

Machhindranath Jatra at Malang Gad near Kalyan

Machhindranath Jatra is annually held in Magh month. The annual jatra is held to the Machindranath Temple atop a hill at Malang Gad near Kalyan, Maharashtra. Machhindranath Jatra 2025 date is February 12. Hundreds of devotees visit Vajreshwari Devi Mandir during the festival. The shrine is located around 13 km from Kalyan. Machhindranath was a saint from the Nath Panth. He meditated here for very long period. He was the founder of the Nath Jogi sect. The day is of importance to the villagers at Malang Gad. People from nearby towns and villages arrive to participate in this annual fair and festival. Important rituals are held during the period. Machhindranath Jatra is annually held on Magh Purnima tithi or the full moon day in Magh month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra.