Rudramsa Durga is one of the most popular forms of Durga worshipped in Hinduism. The name Rudramsa indicates that she incorporates in herself aspects of Rudra form of Lord Shiva. The Rudra form that is incorporated in Rudramsa Durga is that of the Shiva that created numerous spirits in anger to destroy those who had deviated from the path of Dharma. She is part of the Goddess Shakti worship . Some scholars are also of the view that Rudramsa Durga is associated with Lord Shiva who is worshipped at Kedarnath in Uttarakhand. The form of Shiva that is worshipped in Kedarnath is that of a huge buffalo. Rudramsa Durga is depicted as having dark-blue complexion – Shyamala. She has four arms and wears red-colored clothes – Rakthambhara. She wears gold ornaments and has a unique tapering crown, which is not part of many forms of Durga. Rudramsa Durga carries in her hands sword, spear, conch and discus. She rides on a lion. In some portraits, sun and moon are depicted on...

Ravana means the one who screams. The story of the name Ravana is associated with Shiva. How the ten-headed demon king in Ramayana got also gives an idea about the arrogance and physical strength of Ravan. Legend has it that Ravana was arrogant of his powers. Once to impress Lord Shiva, he attempted to lift the Kailash Mountain. Shiva to quell the arrogance of Ravana simply placed his toe on the mountain. Ravana’s forearm were crushed and he let out a deafening scream. From this day, he got the name Ravana meaning the one who screams.

This is a collection of favorite Ugadi quotes and messages that we have read, received and some which we have sent and also some that we made for this Ugadi . Let this Ugadi bring peace and prosperity in the lives of all. On this Ugadi, let the bitter taste of neem remind us of the struggles in life and the sweet taste of jaggery the progress that results from the struggle. May this Ugadi be a good one for all of us. Let this Ugadi usher in a Good and Sweet Year, both materially and spiritually. Happy Ugadi and let this be a delightful year, filled with delightful things in each of its days. This Ugadi let us go forward with great hope that all things will be possible. Happy Ugadi, let this year be filled with the things that are truly good. Ugadi stands for new and fresh – Life is always new and fresh – Let us strive to make all days Ugadi. Let this Ugadi give you the strength to do all that you dreamed to do during last year but didn’t dare to do. This is a time of ne...

Ganesha Purana is one of the minor Puranas. Ganesh Puran is believed to have been written between 11th and 14th century and is credited to the Ganapatya sect – who considered Ganesha as the Supreme Godhead. The Purana extols that Ganesha is the creator, sustainer and destroyer of the universe. It consists of 247 chapters and is divided into two parts. The first part contains information about worship of Ganesha. The second part details Ganesha as creator, protector and sustainer of the universe. The second part basically contains stories of Ganesha, his avatars and how he defeated the demons. The first part is known as Upasana Khanda and the second part is known as Krida Khanda. Ganesha Gita is also part of Ganesh Puran. In it, teachings of Ganesha on yoga, karma, bhakti and jnana are detailed. It is quite similar to Bhagavad Gita.

Overcoming Judgmental Thoughts in Hinduism: Practical Approaches and Spiritual Insights In Hinduism, judgmental thoughts are seen as barriers to spiritual growth and peace of mind. These thoughts arise from ego, ignorance, and attachment, which obscure the true nature of self and the world. Hindu philosophy offers several solutions to overcome judgmental thinking, grounded in spiritual teachings, mantras, stories, and practical approaches. 1. Understanding the Root Cause of Judgmental Thoughts Ego (Ahamkara) : The ego leads us to believe we are superior or inferior, creating a tendency to judge others. Ignorance (Avidya) : Our failure to see the divine essence in all beings makes us judge them based on superficial differences. Attachment (Raga) and Aversion (Dvesha) : These feelings bind us to preferences, making us judge people or situations as good or bad based on our likes and dislikes. The Bhagavad Gita (5:18) offers a valuable perspective: "The wise see no difference between ...

Gandharvanagara is a concept found in Hindu books. It is an imaginary city or mirage town. Hindi Sabdasagara describes Gandharva Nagari as follows: Owing to different optical illusions, villages and cities may appear to exist in the sky and also on seas, rivers, etc. When during summer the air on the upper strata of deserts, seas etc. gets heated, expanded, and rises up, the light passing through it becomes multi-coloured and gives reflections in the sky in the form of village parts or  cities. Also can be seen therein reflections of trees, boats etc. This is a mere optical illusion. This reflection immediately fades out also. This unreal city, which is an optical illusion, is Gandharvanagara. Sage Vyasa in Mahabharata equates Sages disappearing from sight like the Gandharvanagara fading out. Gandharva Nagari, an interesting atmospheric phenomenon, is also mentioned in works on Hindu philosophy — especially the Advaita Vedanta — as an illustration of something whi...

Badi Patan Devi Temple, at Patna in Bihar, is one among the 52 Shaktipeethas. The temple is located near Harmandir Sahib in Patna. The popular belief is that right thigh of Goddess Sati  fell here. Legend has it that when the body part of Goddess Sati touched the ground here three Goddesses – Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasaraswati – appeared. All the three goddesses are worshipped at the Badi Patan Devi Temple. Black stone murtis of the three goddesses are worshipped in the main sanctum sanctorum. The goddesses are in standing posture. Their attire is sari and crown. Murti of Vyom Bhairav represents Shiva in the sanctum. Devotees make offering in a big havan kund found in front of the sanctum. A murti of Mother Goddess sitting on a lion is found on the Verandah behind the main sanctum. A large bell is also found here. Tuesday is the most auspicious day in the temple. Pujas are performed here as per Vedic and Tantric tradition. The most important festiva...

In Hinduism, a jinx or the concept of a "curse" is often viewed as a negative energy or obstacle that can impede one's progress or bring about misfortune. There are various methods in Hindu spiritual traditions to overcome such negative influences, combining both practical and spiritual solutions. Below, I’ll explore day-to-day practices, powerful mantras, the gods and goddesses associated with removing negativity, and insightful stories and teachings from Hindu scriptures to help one overcome jinxes. 1. Practical Day-to-Day Solutions Purification of the Space: One of the first steps to overcome a jinx is to purify your home and surroundings. Burning incense, using camphor, lighting oil lamps (especially in front of deities like Hanuman, Ganesha, or Bhairava), and sprinkling Ganga water are highly effective methods to clear negative energy. Salt Cleansing: Use rock salt or sea salt to absorb negative energies. You can place a bowl of salt in the corners of your home or ...

Swayamvar is the freedom of a bride to choose her husband in an open assembly. This was an important marriage concept practiced in Hinduism. ‘Swayam’ means oneself and ‘vara’ in this context means to select a groom. Swayamvara gives a hint into the position of women in ancient Hindu civilization. A king would proclaim his daughter’s Swayamvara and invite many princes, nobles, warriors and learned men. On the day of Swayamvar, all the contenders will be present in the palace before the king. The princess would go before each of them. She would observe the suitor carefully. Her maid would brief her about the background of the suitor his family, achievements, powers and other aspects of his personality. After having studied the suitors, she would declare her choice by garlanding that person. Her choice is honored by all present. In another type of Swayamvar, the suitors present will have to prove their worth by displaying their strength or martial skills or knowledge. Th...

Jala Samadhi is a unique ritual practiced by Yogis. It is giving up one’s life in water. Jal Samadhi is a method of casting off one’ body voluntarily and it should not be mistaken for suicide. A true yogi has the power to discard one’s life at one’s own will. Jala Samadhi is performed when a yogi realizes that the purpose of the body has been successfully accomplished. Such a yogi then enters into a deep state of Samadhi underwater. There were also instances when Jala Samadhi was opted when a person had lost a philosophical debate. It is said that father of Ashtavakra entered into a debate with another scholar in the court of King Janaka. The condition put was that whoever lost the debate would perform Jal Samadhi. Ashtavakra’s father lost the debate and he then performed Jal Samadhi. Years later Ashtavakra came to the same court and defeated the scholar who had defeated his father. However, Ashtavakra did not ask the scholar to take Jal Samadhi. Instead, he asked King Janaka...

Overcoming Jealousy in Friendship: A Hinduism Perspective In Hinduism, jealousy, like other negative emotions, is considered a hindrance to spiritual progress and personal growth. The Vedas, Upanishads, and epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana contain teachings and stories that help individuals rise above jealousy. Let’s explore how to overcome jealousy in friendship using Hindu philosophies, day-to-day practices, mantras, stories, and deities to worship. 1. Understanding the Root of Jealousy: The Role of Ego According to Hindu teachings, jealousy arises from the ego (ahankara) and attachment (moha). Ego makes one compare themselves to others and fuels negative emotions like envy and jealousy. The first step to overcoming jealousy is recognizing that these emotions stem from one's ego and lack of contentment. Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 2, Verse 71) says: "A person who is free from all desires, who lives without longing, who is free from the sense of 'I' and 'mine...

Goddess Rankini Devi is a manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti. Rankini Mandir located at Ghatshila in Jharkhand is a popular shrine dedicated to this form of Mother Goddess. The shrine is located atop Kaprighat hill, which is around 4 km from Jadugoda. It is widely believed that during ancient times, people who traveled through the dense forest for their protection and well being worshiped the Goddess. Goddess Rankini Devi is worshipped in the form of a Shila or naturally occurring rock. She is decorated with sindoor, garlands and silver eyes. Bhimji Tribe performed the puja to the murtis from ancient times. Even today, the priests in the shrine are from the tribe. The main offering in the shrine is tying of a coconut, supari and arwa chaval wrapped in red cloth. Devotees for wish fulfillment make this offering. When the wishes are fulfilled, people donate animals to the shrine. Coconut and batasha are offered as Bhoga. Daily Aarti is performed at 6:00 A...

In Hinduism, natural herbs and plants hold deep spiritual significance, and dandelion root is no exception. The dandelion, known as Kanphul or Swarnakhkshari in Sanskrit, has been used in ancient Ayurvedic traditions for its healing properties, both on a physical and spiritual level. Here’s a detailed exploration of its benefits and uses: 12 Spiritual Benefits of Dandelion Root in Hinduism Energy Purification Dandelion root is believed to cleanse negative energy, both in the body and the environment. Its essence purifies the aura, helping remove emotional blockages and past traumas, allowing positive energy to flow freely. Connection to Earth Element In Hindu spirituality, the root of plants symbolizes grounding. Dandelion root strengthens one's connection to the earth, promoting stability and balance in life. Chakra Healing Dandelion root has a special influence on the Solar Plexus Chakra ( Manipura ), the energy center associated with personal power, self-confidence, and willpo...

Alopi Devi is a manifestation of Goddess Shakti and is one among the 51 Shakti Peethas. The legend of the Goddess is associated with the death of Sati at the yagna conducted by Daksha and the subsequent anger of Shiva and his roaming with the body of Sati and Vishnu then cutting the body using his Sudarshan Chakra to save the universe. The temple dedicated to Alopi Devi is located at Prayag ( Allahabad ) in Uttar Pradesh. Alopi Devi is also popularly known as Goddess Madhaveswari. The popular belief is that the fingers of the hands of Goddess Sati fell at the spot where the Alopi Devi Temple stands. It must be noted that Goddess Alopi temple is also part of the Ashta Dasa Shakti Peethas concept more famous in South India and propagated through the Ashtadasa Shakti Peetha Stotra of Adi Shankara. Alopi means disappeared. The Goddess gets the name Alopi because of the belief that the last part of Goddess Sati’s body fell here and disappeared. Hence this is the last spot ...

 In Hinduism, the spiritual benefits of detaching from social media can be understood through the lens of several core principles of the faith. These principles emphasize self-discipline, inner peace, mindfulness, and detachment from worldly distractions. Here are some of the key spiritual benefits of deleting or reducing social media use, based on Hindu teachings: 1. Cultivation of Vairagya (Detachment) Vairagya refers to the concept of dispassion or detachment from the material world, which is central to Hindu spirituality. By deleting social media, one steps away from the constant need for validation, comparison, and attachment to external appearances. In Hindu philosophy, desires and attachments are seen as obstacles to spiritual growth. Social media can amplify desires for status, recognition, and material success, all of which can keep the mind in a state of restlessness. Detaching from these can lead to a more peaceful and spiritually aligned life. 2. Control Over Mind (Chi...

Gandiva was the bow of Arjuna in the Mahabharata. Arjuna received the Gandiva bow from Agni. Legend has it that Agni gave Arjuna the bow for helping in performing the Khandava Dahanam or the burning of the Khandava forest. There is an interesting story as to how Arjuna came to receive the Gandiva bow from Agni. Once there was a king named Shvetaki. He conducted several types of yajnas for several years and this filled the kingdom with smoke. The yajna place was continuously under smoke and the Rishis found it difficult to even breathe. They all left the place. This did not deter Shvetaki who decided to conduct another yajna for 12 years but none of the Rishis were ready to take part in it. Shvetaki then prayed to Shiva for a solution and He gave him Durvaasas as the priest for the yajna. Durvaasas continued the yajna for 12 years pouring unlimited materials into Agni. Agni was now overfed and could no longer take anymore food. His brilliance started to fade and t...

In Hinduism, massage practices like deep tissue massage can have significant spiritual and holistic benefits. While traditional Ayurveda provides a structured system of body and mind care, deep tissue massage plays a crucial role in balancing the body's energies, supporting spiritual growth, and overall well-being. Here's a comprehensive look at how deep tissue massage aligns with spiritual, physical, mental, and social well-being within the context of Hindu beliefs. 1. Balancing the Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) In Ayurveda, the three doshas— Vata (air), Pitta (fire), and Kapha (earth)—represent bodily humors that regulate our physical and mental functions. Deep tissue massage helps balance these doshas by stimulating energy flow and clearing blockages in the energy channels (nadis). This helps maintain physical harmony and spiritual well-being. 2. Prana (Life Energy) Flow Enhancement Deep tissue massage enhances the flow of Prana , the life force energy that flows through th...

Tulja Bhavani worship in Maharashtra is popular due to a combination of historical, cultural, and religious factors. Here’s a detailed explanation: Historical Significance Royal Patronage : The deity Tulja Bhavani holds immense significance for the Maratha rulers, particularly Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Shivaji Maharaj was a devout worshipper of Bhavani and considered her his family deity (kuldevta). It is believed that Bhavani blessed Shivaji with a sword (Bhavani Talwar), symbolizing divine support in his quest to establish the Maratha Empire. The patronage by such an influential figure led to widespread veneration and reverence for the goddess among the populace. Ancient Origins : The worship of Tulja Bhavani can be traced back to ancient times. The temple in Tuljapur, dedicated to her, is one of the oldest and most significant temples in Maharashtra. The ancient roots of the temple and its association with various dynasties over centuries have cemented its importance. Cultural S...

Details regarding Hells in Hinduism are found in the Puranas especially the Garuda Purana. Rauravam Hell is mainly used to punish those people who have persecuted other living beings. In the Raurava Hell, people are bound with ropes by attendants of Yama and thrown into the hell where they are bitten by snakes. When such people are thrown in the Rauravam Hell, people whom they had tormented or cheated on earth assume the shape of snakes. This concept of heaven and hell in Hindu tradition is based on Puranas. Such stories and incidents in Puranas are meant to keep human beings disciplined on earth. Upanishads state that hell and heaven are on earth and lucky are those who realize the true self and attain bliss here. 

Poems of the great Bhakti saint and poet Sant Tukaram Maharaj is known as Tukaram Gatha. Below is the link to the Tukaram Gatha in pdf and you can download it for free. Tukaram Gathas are famous for its wisdom and Bhakti towards the Supreme Being in the form of Lord Vitthal. Link – Tukaram Gatha in pdf Sant Tukaram (1608-1649 CE) was one of the greatest saints of India, and as such he has influenced and is still influencing the devotional and spiritual world of people of Maharashtra. Sant Tukaram was an ardent devotee of Lord Vitthal of Pandarpur. He began intensive studies of the writings of all Varkari saints right from Sant Jnandev to Sant Eknath. This strengthened his devotion towards Lord Vithal. The most important aspect of the literary study had on Tukaram was that he could overcome his reclusiveness and began to mingle with people striving towards their upliftment. Sant Tukaram’s poetry initiated an upheaval against casteism, diabolic religious practices, e...

Here is a list of popular Saraswati Temples in Kerala, India. Goddess Saraswati is the Hindu goddess of wisdom, knowledge, intelligence and learning. There are 17 temples of Goddess Saraswati in this list and will be updated regularly. Panachikkadu Saraswathi Temple Panachikkadu Saraswathi Temple is located near Kottayam. The temple is known as Southern Mookambika. The main deity in the temple is Vishnu. Goddess Saraswati is worshipped in a separate sanctum. She is worshipped here in the form of Mookambika. Chottanikkara Temple Mother Goddess is worshipped in three forms in this popular temple. She is worshipped as Goddess Saraswati in the morning, as Lakshmi in noon and as Durga in the evening. Varkala Sivagiri Sharada Temple This temple was consecrated by Sri Narayana Guru. Goddess sits on a white lotus here. The temple is located at Varkala Sivagiri. Kumaranalloor Devi Temple Mother Goddess is worshipped in five forms here. She is worship...

Giridih Surya Mandir in Jharkhand is a unique modern temple dedicated to Surya, the Hindu sun god. The temple is in the form of a chariot with a beautiful lotus structure atop it. The architecture of the sun temple at Giridih is inspired by the famous Sun Temple in Konark , Orissa. The temple is located in the middle of a pond. The length of the temple is around 60 feet, height of the dome is 50 feet and that of sanctum, which is in hexagonal shape, is 15 feet. The murti of Surya Bhagavan in the temple is sitting on a chariot driven by seven horses . Aruna , the charioteer, can also be seen. Other murtis that are worshipped in the temple include Lakshmi Narayan, Rama, Sita, Hanuman , Shiva, Parvati, Vedmata Gayatri, Radha and Krishna. The most important dates it the temple are Saptami and Sundays. The most important festival and puja is observed here during Chhath Puja.

In Hinduism, water holds a sacred and revered position, and dew water, in particular, is considered pure and potent with spiritual significance. The concept of dew water aligns with the ancient Vedic traditions, which emphasize the purification and sanctity of natural elements. The spiritual and health benefits of dew water are believed to be numerous, affecting our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Here’s an expanded discussion on the spiritual benefits of dew water in Hinduism , along with practical applications, effects on health, personality, and well-being , and relevant mantras for collecting and using it. Spiritual Benefits of Dew Water in Hinduism Purification of Aura Dew water is believed to purify the aura (energy field) surrounding a person, removing negative energies that accumulate from daily interactions. Connection with Nature Collecting and using dew water fosters a deep spiritual connection with nature, reinforcing the belief that all living beings and eleme...