Angushapurusha, or Angus Purushan, is the deity who controls elephants as per Hindu tradition. Angusha or Ankus is goad – the long stick with sharp edges used to control elephants. Purusha is the deity that holds the goad. Legend has it that saints realized that elephants can be extremely dangerous to human beings. So they offered prayers to Hindu God Kartik (Muruga or Subrahmanya ). Kartik who realized the difficulties asked Brahma to create a deity that will keep the elephants under control. This deity is Angushapurusha. Angushapurusha has deep red eyes and huge teeth. He is distinguished by his beautiful golden crown. He has two arms and his weapon is goad. He has four different types of goad – shaped like lightning, like a new moon, like nail and with pointed edges like thorns. The popular belief is that all elephants are sacred of Angushapurusha.

Jambavan is one among the Chiranjeevi in Hindu tradition and he had witnessed all the nine avatars of Vishnu. For most people, Jambavan is the old and wise sloth bear character in Ramayana. The story of the origin of Jambavan is very interesting and there are two popular versions of it. Legend has it that Jambavan appeared from the mouth of Brahma. This happened when Brahma was yawning. Another legend has it that the demons Madhu and Kaitabha had challenged Brahma for a war. Brahma got sacred and he started sweating profusely and from the sweat appeared Jambavan. Madhu and Kaitabha were later vanquished by Goddess Durga. It is believed that Jambavan got his name after he had first climbed a mountain named Jambunanda.

Narasimha Swamy Anjaneyar Temple is a unique shrine dedicated to Narasimha Avatar of Vishnu and Hanuman (Anjaneyar). Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped here as Namagiri Thayaar. The shrine is located around 1 kilometer from Namakkal town in Tamil Nadu. Legend has it that Hanuman brought the murti of Narasimha Swamy worshipped here from the Himalayas. Hanuman carried the mountain with the medicinal herb to save Bhagavan Sri Ram. The mountain contained a Shaligram form of Narasimha, which was worshipped by Bhakta Prahlada. Hanuman had to place the mountain at Namakkal during his journey to Lanka. The Shaligram did not move from its spot. Therefore, Hanuman decided to place it there. He then returned with the rest of mountain to Lanka to save Bhagavan Sri Ram. Hanuman murti is standing on the western side of the temple in the open and offering prayers to Narasimha Swamy. People worship Anjaneyar here to get relief from horoscope related problems – especially those related to Rah

Madmaheshwar Temple is dedicated to Hindu God Shiva and is located in Mansuna Village in Uttarakhand which is around 20-km Trek from Uniana. Also known as Madhyamaheshwar Temple , this is the fourth temple in the Panch Kedar Pilgrimage and is located at an altitude of 3289 m. It is believed that the torso including the navel of the bull form of Shiva appeared at Madmaheshwar. In a calendar year, the temple is only open from May to October. The temple remains closed during the winter period and the murti is shifted to Ukhimath and worshipped there during the harsh winter. The temple remains covered in snow during the period. The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas. They had reached the Garhwal Himalayas to seek pardon from Shiva for the killings they had during the Mahabharata war. But Shiva was not ready to pardon and took the form of a bull to hide from Pandavas. But when Pandavas detected the disguise, Shiva thrust himself into the ground and

Innumerable are the ways in which a Hindu devotee approaches God. At Chitai Temple in Almora in Uttarakhand, devotees write letters to Golu Devata or Lord Golu, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The letters are hung in the temple premises. And when the wishes mentioned in the letters are fulfilled, devotees return to hang bells in the temple. And thousands of bells that are hung around the Chitai Temple stands testimony to the fact that wishes indeed get fulfilled by praying at the temple. Chitai Temple in Almora is also known as Neleya Pant temple. The presiding deity in the temple is known as Golu or Gaur Bhairav (Shiva) and is popular deity in this region. He is also known as the Justice God – as he is believed to provide justice to devotees with devotion. Thousands of bells that are hung around the temple and beautiful surroundings give an awe-inspiring charm to the place. Daily India reports ‘He is known to be the God of justice. People from differ

There is a popular belief that the Kartavirya Arjuna had thousand arms due to the blessing of Lord Dattatreya. Kartaviryarjuna wanted to obtain supernatural powers. He took the advice of Sage Garga for getting his desire fulfilled. Sage Garga asked Kartavirya Arjuna to offer prayers to Lord Dattatreya, who was an incarnation of the Trimurti. Therefore, Kartaviryarjuna and his wife went Narmada River and took bath in the river and did penance to please Dattatreya. Lord Dattatreya was in intense meditation in a nearby place. Pleased with the penance of the king, Dattatreya asked him what boon he wanted. Kartaviryarjuna asked for thousand arms. Dattatreya granted his wishes. This story is found in the Brahma Purana.

Akshaya Tritiya is one of the Kalpadi Tithi and it marks the beginning of Krita Era. Shradh and Tarpan performed on the day are highly meritorious and everlasting. Making donations on the day on earth to poor people is equal to offering to the deceased ancestor’s souls. The importance of Akshaya Tritiya Shradh is mentioned in the Garuda Puran. If donations are made on the day the soul of the ancestors will not be tormented by the lieutenants of Lord Yama. Things that can be donated as part of Akshaya Tritiya Shradh include uncooked food, water pot, umbrella, footwear and fan.

Hari Bol Hari Bol is very popular bhajan dedicated to Bhagavan Sri Krishna. It is chanted for attaining peace and prosperity. The prayer can be chanted whenever performing prayers to Lord Krishna. The lyrics of the Bhajan in English is given below: Hari Bol, Hari Bol, Hari Hari Bol (2 times all lines) Mukund Madhav Govind Bol Keshav Madhav Govind Bol Mukund Madhav Hari Hari Bol Benefits Of Chanting Hari Bol Hari Bol Bhajan Daily In Hinduism Chanting "Hari Bol Hari Bol" is a significant practice in Hinduism, particularly in the Bhakti Yoga tradition, which focuses on devotion and love for God. This mantra, invoking the name of Lord Hari (a form of Lord Vishnu or Krishna), is often associated with joy, liberation, and spiritual upliftment. Chanting it daily can offer numerous benefits on multiple levels—spiritual, mental, emotional, and even physical. Here’s a detailed expansion on these benefits: 1. Spiritual Benefits Connection to the Divine : Chanting "Hari Bol&

Vasudeva Sutam Devam is very popular bhajan dedicated to Bhagavan Sri Krishna. The lyrics of the Bhajan in Hindi is given below: It is chanted for attaining peace and prosperity. The prayer can be chanted whenever performing prayers to Lord Krishna. Vasudeva Sutam Devam, Kamsa Chanura Mardanam Devaki Paramanandam, Krishnam Vande Jagadgurum The meaning of this Mantra is given in English below: My salutation to Lord Krishna, the son of Vasudeva, the Destroyer of Kansa and Chanura, the Supreme Bliss of Devaki, the Teacher of the Universe. Importance And Benefits of Chanting Vasudeva Sutam Devam In Hindu Religion Chanting the verse "Vasudeva Sutam Devam" is a revered practice in Hinduism, particularly among devotees of Lord Krishna. This verse, also known as the "Krishna Mantra," holds significant spiritual, psychological, and cultural importance. Here’s an in-depth look at its importance and benefits: 1. Spiritual Significance: Recognition of Divinity

In Hinduism, a religion characterized by a profound tapestry of rituals, philosophies, and practices, bhajans hold a place of deep spiritual and cultural significance. Bhajans, devotional songs dedicated to deities, saints, or revered figures, transcend the mere act of singing. They encapsulate a form of worship that is intrinsic to the daily lives and spiritual experiences of millions of Hindus. This essay explores why bhajans are an indispensable part of Hindu religion, highlighting their role in spiritual expression, cultural preservation, communal bonding, and psychological well-being. Spiritual Expression and Connection Bhajans serve as a medium for expressing devotion and connecting with the divine. In Hindu philosophy, the act of singing or listening to bhajans is considered a form of bhakti (devotional worship), one of the primary paths to attaining spiritual liberation ( moksha ). This path emphasizes loving devotion and surrender to a deity, and bhajans are a powerful means

Anjaneya Veera Hanumantha Sura is very popular bhajan dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is chanted for attaining peace and prosperity. The prayer can be chanted whenever performing prayers to Anjaneya or Hanuman. The lyrics of the Bhajan in English is given below: Anjaneya Vira Hanumant Sura (2 times) Vayu Kumara Vanara Vira Anjaneya Vira Hanumant Sura Vayu Kumara Vanara Vira Shri Ram Duta Jaya Hanumanta Jai Jai Sita Ram ki Jai Bolo Hanuman ki Jai Bolo Hanuman ki Jai Jai Sita Ram ki Jai Bolo Hanuman ki Ram Lakshman Janaki Jai Bolo Hanuman ki Jai Bolo Hanuman ki Jai Jai Sita Ram ki Jai Bolo Hanuman ki Anjaneya Vira .....

Narasimha Stuti is chanted to get the blessings of Lord Narasimha – the avatar of Lord Vishnu. The prayer is for wish fulfillment and overcoming all forms of prayer. The Stuti in Telugu in pdf format is given below. The text or lyrics of Narasimha Stuti in Telugu language is provided by Sundar Kidambi of prapatti. It can be chanted daily morning and evening. Link  –  Telugu Narasimha Stuti

Tanu Napat, a significant yet somewhat enigmatic figure in Vedic literature, is a deity mentioned in the ancient Indian scriptures known as the Vedas. This deity is intricately associated with Agni, the fire god, who is central to Vedic rituals and sacrifices. Here’s a detailed exploration of Tanu Napat and his place in Vedic mythology: Etymology and Meaning The name "Tanu Napat" translates to "Son of Himself," a title that underscores his self-originating nature. This concept suggests a deity who is self-existent, embodying the idea of self-sustenance and eternal renewal, similar to the cyclical nature of fire. Association with Agni In the Vedas, Agni is a pivotal deity, representing the sacred fire crucial to Vedic rituals (yajna). Tanu Napat is frequently mentioned alongside or as a manifestation of Agni. This association is evident in the Rig Veda, where he is often invoked during hymns dedicated to fire and its transformative powers. Shared Characteristics Fir

Bhagya Lakshmi is the goddess of luck in Hinduism and she is a form of Goddess Lakshmi . There is a popular belief among some communities that six days after the birth of a child Bhagya Lakshmi writes the child’s fate on the forehead. Yet another and the most widespread belief is that Bhagyalakshmi can transform a beggar into king and a king into beggar. In Maharashtra , Bhagya Lakshmi is known Satavai. She is believed to visit the new born baby on the sixth day. There the place where the newborn baby sleeps is kept clean. She is also known as Saubhagyalakshmi in some regions. Bhagya Lakshmi is worshipped during Diwali by gambling. It is believed by some communities that the luck of the coming year can be determined by playing a game of dice. The game will determine on whose side is Bhagya Lakshmi. It is believed that fortune favors the winner in gambling. Bhagya Lakshmi is counted among Ashta Lakshmis in many regions. It is believed that the luck provided by

Narasimha Stuti is chanted to get the blessings of Lord Narasimha – the avatar of Lord Vishnu. The prayer is for wish fulfillment and overcoming all forms of prayer. The Stuti in Malayalam in pdf format is given below. The text or lyrics of Narasimha Stuti in Malayalam language is provided by Sundar Kidambi of prapatti. It can be chanted daily morning and evening. Link  –  Malayalam Narasimha Stuti

Patala Loka is the lowest of the seven netherworlds in Hindu religion. This city below the surface of earth was built by Maya and is occupied by serpent chief or important Nagas. The glittering gems on the hoods of the Nagas light up the place. Stories about Patala Loka are mentioned in the Srimad Bhagavad Purana, Skanda Purana, Brahmanda Purana, Kurma Purana and other Hindu scriptures. As per Skanda Purana a rare murti of the Hatkeshwara form of Shiva is found in Patala Loka. As per Brahmanda Purana, dharmic people who visit Patala Loka are received by the daughters of the serpent chiefs and are entertained with music. During their stay, they are provided with divine elixir which helps the person to regain strength and vitality. The person will then have a strong and powerful body. It is said that Sage Narada who had visited Patala Loka commented that Patala was more enjoyable that the heaven of Indra. At the end of the cycle of creation, Patala Loka is also destro

Narasimha Kavacham is chanted to get the protection of Lord Narasima. The prayer is for overcoming fear and enemies. The Kavacham in English in pdf format is given below. The text or lyrics of Narasimha Kavacham in English language is provided by Sundar Kidambi of prapatti. It can be chanted daily morning and evening. Link  –  English Narasimha Kavacham

Govindeshwar Gufa is a sacred cave located below the Omkareshwar Temple on Mandhata Island near Indore in Madhya Pradesh. The cave is associated with Adi Shankaracharya. It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya met his Guru Govinda Bhagavatpada in the cave during his parikrama of the Narmada. The concept of Vedanta was narrated to Adi Shankara by Govinda Bhagavatpada in the cave. A murti of Adi Shankara is located in the cave. Omkareshwar temple is one of the 12 jyotirlinga temples and is located on the Omkareshwar – Mandhata Island. It is believed that vyakarana mahabhashyam was taught by Gaudapada to Govinda Bhagavatpada in the cave. 

Trilochaneshwar 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 Trilochaneshwar Form of Shiva will result in attaining worldly happiness. The person will also attain Shivlok after death. The temple dedicated to Trilochaneshwar Mahadev is located at Ramaji Jat Ki Gali at Namdarpura. This form of Shiva is associated with giving moksha to two pigeons. Trilochaneshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84 Shiva Temples in Ujjain and it is the 45th temple visited during the parikarama of Shiavalayas here. Story of Trilochaneshwar Mahadev of Shiva in Ujjain During ancient times, two pigeons lived at Trilochaneshwar Mahadev. They drank water offered to Shiva and lived on grains offered by devotees. They listened to stories and bhajans of Shiva daily. One a hawk hunted them down. The two pigeons were born as human beings in the next birth. The male pigeon was born as Parimal in the house of

Narasimha Kavacham is chanted to get the protection of Lord Narasima. The prayer is for overcoming fear and enemies. The Kavacham in Hindi in pdf format is given below. The text or lyrics of Narasimha Kavacham in Hindi language is provided by Sundar Kidambi of prapatti. It can be chanted daily morning and evening. Link  –  Hindi Narasimha Kavacham

Pooran Devi Temple is located at Purnea in Bihar. It is dedicated to Goddess Pooran Devi, a fierce manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti. This is an unusual temple in which goat sacrifice is practiced to appease the deity. Mother Goddess Pooran Devi is worshipped in Pindi form here. She is believed to be the combined Shakti of nine forms of Durga. Lord Shiva is also worshipped here in Shivling form. The most important festival observed here is the Durga Puja. A pair of elephant trunk is kept in a separate room. It is believed that a Sant removed it from an elephant which belonged to an arrogant Nawab. People who have their wishes fulfilled sacrifice goats at the shrine.

One tank is beneficial like 10 wells; one lake does good like 10 tanks; ten lakes are beneficial like one son, but one tree is equal to having 10 sons. Ancient Hindus considered trees and plants as family members. Goddess Lakshmi resides in houses having trees like Bilva, Amlaka, Amra and Kapitha in their compound. As per scriptures, planting of seeds is done after purifying one’s body by taking bath, wearing clean clothes, offering prayers to ancestors and gods. As per scriptures, purity of body and mind should be maintained while tending plants.  ------------------------- The ancient Hindu worldview offers profound insights into the relationship between humans and nature. This wisdom, encapsulated in texts, practices, and philosophical traditions, emphasizes a deep respect and reverence for the natural world. Below are several key aspects of this relationship as understood in Hinduism: 1. Sacred Texts and Teachings Vedas and Upanishads : The Vedas, particularly the R

Narasimha Stuti is chanted to get the blessings of Lord Narasimha – the avatar of Lord Vishnu. The prayer is for wish fulfillment and overcoming all forms of prayer. The Stuti in Kannada in pdf format is given below. The text or lyrics of Narasimha Stuti in Kannada language is provided by Sundar Kidambi of prapatti. It can be chanted daily morning and evening. Link  –  Kannada Narasimha Stuti

Narasimha Kavacham is chanted to get the protection of Lord Narasima. The prayer is for overcoming fear and enemies. The Kavacham in Malayalam in pdf format is given below. The text or lyrics of Narasimha Kavacham in Malayalam language is provided by Sundar Kidambi of prapatti. It can be chanted daily morning and evening. Link  –  Malayalam Narasimha Kavacham

Garuda, the divine eagle and vehicle of Vishnu, appears to rescue Rama and Lakshman who were bound by the Nagapasha Arrow of Indrajit in the Ramayana. The episode is mentioned in the Yuddha Kanda of the Ramayana. Indrajit who could not withstand the assault of Rama uses magic (Maya) to fight. He disappears into the sky and shoots arrows on Rama and Lakshman. Both Rama and Lakshman are injured as they cannot see Indrajit and his arrows. Finally Indrajit uses the Nagapasha arrow to tie down Rama and Lakshman. Nagas or poisonous snakes form coils on the body Rama and Lakshman and they are made immobile. The poison takes effect on the brothers and both fall unconscious. The vanarasena is worried. Sushena, the physician, asks Hanuman to bring Sanjivakarani and Vishalyakarani two herbs. But suddenly a strong breeze appeared in the area. Mountains and trees started swaying in the strong breeze. Huge waves appeared in the ocean. Vanaras looked up and saw Garuda in the sky.

The famous Shani Dev Temple , also known as Kokilavan Dham, at Kosi Kalan near Mathura in Uttar Pradesh is believed to be the spot where Lord Krishna gave darshan to Shani Dev (God Shani). The temple is visited by thousands of devotees on Saturday (Shanivar), the day dedicated to Lord Shani. Kokilavan Dham Story There is an interesting story associated with Lord Krishna and Shani Dev and the Kokilavan Dham. Legend has it that when Lord Krishna was born all Devas (demigods) visited Nandgaon. Shani Dev too came to see little Krishna but Yashoda did not let him see young Krishna . Reason Shanidev might bring bad upon Krishna . Shani felt disappointed and went to a nearby forest and started performing austerities (tapas). He wanted to know why he was being sidelined when he is doing his duty of punishing people according to their Karma. It is said that Shani only creates trouble on those people who do bad Karma. Moved by Shani’s plight, Lord Krishna appeared be

Kokila Sashti is observed in Vaisakh month and is dedicated to Goddess Sati. Kokila Sashti 2025 date is April 19. Shashti or Shasti is the sixth day during a lunar fortnight. There is a legend that Goddess Sati spent 1000 celestial years as a cuckoo before she got back her shape and merged with Shiva. This happened after the incident mentioned in the Puranas in which Sati immolated herself.  Kokila Sashti is observed during the Vaishakh Krishna Paksha or waning phase of moon.

Akampana was one of the demons and a trusted lieutenant of Ravana. He was killed by Hanuman in the Ramayana. It is mentioned in the Sarga 56, Yuddha Kanda of Ramayan. When Rakshasa Dhoom Raksha was killed by Hanuman, Ravana asked Akampana to enter the battlefield. He led a vast army of demons and fought fiercely against the Vanarasena (monkey army). But majority of the demons were killed by the Vanarasena headed by Hanuman. Akampana was furious and started attacking monkeys like a mad man. Hanuman countered him barehanded. Hanuman threw a huge boulder on Akampana. The demon reduced the huge stone into powder with his arrows. Hanuman then uprooted a tree and whirled it like a wheel killing many demons. Akampana sent fourteen arrows at Hanuman but they were all blocked. Hanuman then uprooted another huge tree and hit Akampana on his head. This resulted in the death of Akampana.

Triprayar Sri Rama Temple is located near Thrissur in Kerala. The temple is dedicated to Bhagavan Sri Ram. Triprayar Temple Timings with detail opening and closing time is given below. Please note that the pooja and darshan time will extended or curtailed during important rituals. The shrine will remain closed during Grahan or Eclipse. Triprayar Temple Morning Pooja Timings 3:00 AM to 12:00 PM Triprayar Sri Rama Temple Evening Darshan Timings 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM Deeparadhana is at 6:30 PM. (depends on the sunrise and sunset timing) The first puja is the early morning Nirmalya Puja from 3:00 AM. Witnessing this is considered highly meritorious. The important pujas in the shrine are Usha Puja, Ethirtha Puja, Panthiradi Puja, Ucha Puja and Athazha Puja.

Srimad Bhagavad Gita, the Divine Song of the Lord, needs no introduction as it is the most popular text in Hinduism. The Holy Geeta, a modern Commentary on Srimad Bhagawad Geeta, by Swami Chinmayananda is one of the most sought after commentaries of the Bhagavad Gita. Now, Chinmaya Mission UK is providing an opportunity to download the Holy Gita with Commentary of Swami Chinmayananda for free. The commentary on Gita by Swami Chinmayananda is noted for its careful analysis and brilliant reasoning. Going beyond the literal meaning, Swami Chinmayananda reveals the hidden meaning in each shloka – the message and teachings which is applicable in all ages. You can try downloading from these links – Gita Download - this comes along with the Geeta Vaatika software – an electronic set up of Gita and features numerous articles on Bhagavad Gita plus an opportunity to compare different shlokas. Or from Holy Geeta - this is an E-book. You may also like to read Dow

Hanumanchatti Temple is a base camp for pilgrims heading towards Badrinath Temple. The mandir is a small one and it can accommodate only a couple of devotees. Hanuman Chatti Mandir is located on the banks of Alakananda River. Badrinath temple is around 12 km from Hanumanchatti. Hanuman murti is depicted as doing kirtan in the temple. Small murtis of Ram Parviar (Sri Ram, Mata Sita and Lakshman) can be seen in the sanctum sanctorum. There are also small bronze murtis of Hanuman in various postures in the shrine. Mace or Gada of Hanuman can also be worshipped in the shrine.

Drona and Drupada were great friends during their childhood days. However, they later became enemies. This is an important story in the Mahabharata and it had far reaching consequences. Drona and Drupada were students of Bharadwaja. During the time of education both Drupada and Drona became great friends. Drupada was the son of King Prsata, who ruled Panchala. Drona was a poor Brahmin. When they were students, Drupada had promised Drona that he would help him financially when he becomes the king of Panchala. After education, both returned to their respective places. Drona became a great archer but remained poor. He got married and had a son, Ashwathama. He found it difficult to make both ends meet. Fed up with poverty, Drona one day approached Drupada who was now the king of Panchala. However, King Drupada did not care to recognize Drona as a friend. When Drona tried to remind him of their friendship, Drupada insulted him. Drona then vowed to avenge the insult.

Tapovan Mandir is nestled in a quiet and serene spot near Deoghar in Jharkhand. The temple is around 10 km from Deoghar town. Deoghar Tapovan is located at an altitude of 500 feet atop a hill. This has been a place of meditation for thousands of years. There are numerous legends associated with the place. The popular belief is that demon King Ravana performed austerities here to take Lord Shiva to Lanka. Devas then took the help of Hanuman to disturb the austerities of Ravana. A huge stone broken by Hanuman into two to disturb the meditation of Ravana can be found in the temple complex. Legend has it that Bhagavan Sri Ram, Mata Sita and Lakshman stayed on the hill during their exile period in the Ramayan. Sage Valmiki is also believed to have stayed and meditated here. During 19 th century, a saint named Balananda Brahmachari performed intense tapas for more than 50 years here. He worshiped Lord Shiva. He is believed to have had darshan of Shiva here. People believe tha

Nasagra Drishti is a technique in Yoga. It is fixing the gaze, or drishti, on the tip of the nose. Nasagra Drishti Yoga technique is mainly meant for bringing the unsteady mind under control and for making it stable and sharp. Hatha Yoga Pradipika ( I. 35, 45 – 46) states that one should fix the gaze on the tip of the nose while sitting in the lotus pose (padmasana). Nasagra Drishti is a tough yoga technique and needs to be developed very slowly and cautiously. The Yoga technique makes mind steady through its impact directly on the brain through the optic nerves. The gaze may be also fixed with the eyes closed but this is not mentioned in traditional yoga and Tantric texts. This is less stressful and is more effective especially for beginners. You can also do the Nasagra Drishti for a long period by keeping the eyes closed.

Goddess Meenakshi is a manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti – Adi Parashakti. The story of Goddess Meenakshi and Shiva who are worshipped in Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple in Madurai is found in the Halasya Mahatmyam. Goddess Meenakshi was born as the daughter of King Malayadhwaja and Kanchanamala. She was named Tadatagai. She was the sole child of the royal couple and soon became well versed in arts, science and warfare. After the death of Malayadhwaja, she ascended throne and went on a conquest of the northern regions. Here in the Himalayas, she met Lord Shiva who promised her that he would marry her in Madurai. As promised, Shiva appeared as Soma Sundareswarar – the most handsome man in the universe with a crescent moon on this head. The marriage took place and it is celebrated even today in Chithirai month in Madurai Meenakshi Temple. Shiva then stayed in Madurai with his wife and ruled over the kingdom for some time. He performed numerous miracles to please h

Narasimha Kavacham is chanted to get the protection of Lord Narasima. The prayer is for overcoming fear and enemies. The Kavacham in Kannada in pdf format is given below. The text or lyrics of Narasimha Kavacham in Kannada language is provided by Sundar Kidambi of prapatti. It can be chanted daily morning and evening. Link  –  Kannada Narasimha Kavacham Benefits Of Chanting Narasimha Kavacham Daily In Hinduism Chanting the Narasimha Kavacham is a deeply revered practice in Hinduism, especially among devotees of Lord Narasimha, the half-man, half-lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This sacred text is a protective hymn dedicated to Lord Narasimha, celebrated for his role in vanquishing evil and safeguarding the devout. Reciting the Narasimha Kavacham daily offers numerous spiritual, mental, and physical benefits. Here’s an expanded look at these benefits: Spiritual Benefits Divine Protection : The Kavacham is a powerful shield, believed to invoke Lord Narasimha’s protection against ne

Meteorology was a highly developed science in ancient India. Hindus were particularly concerned about the pattern of rainfall and as it was vital to the agrarian economy. Meghamala is an ancient Hindu text that dealt exclusively on meteorology. The book is in the form of a dialogue between Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, Pune, possesses four manuscripts of Meghamala - Raudri Meghamala, as section in Gargi Samhita, Maheshwari Meghamala, Bhairavokta Meghamala. The topics dealt in the books include classification of clouds, predicting future rainfall, types of clouds, measurement of rains and other related matters. No critical edition of the text is available.

Kumbh Mela is the sacred holy pilgrimage in Hinduism. Kumbh Mela 2016 dates are from April 22 to May 21, 2016. It will be taking place at Ujjain on the banks of Shipra River in Madhya Pradesh in India. Ujjain Kumbh Mela 2016 detail dates are given below. The Kumbh Mela will begin on April 22, 2016 Shahi Snaan (Royal Holy Dip) – April 22, 2016 Pancheshani Yatra Start – May 1, 2016 Vratparv Varuthini Ekadashi – May 3, 2016 Vaishakh Krishna Amavasya – May 6, 2016 Akshaya Tritiya – May 9, 2016 Shankracharya Jayanti – May 11, 2016 Vrishabh Sankranti – May 15, 2016 Mohini Ekadashi – May 17, 2016 Pradosh – May 19, 2016 Narasimha Jayanti – May 20, 2016 Pramukh Shahi Snaan – May 21 The four Mondays during the period are also considered highly auspicious to take holy dip. April 25, 2016 May 2, 2016 May 9, 2016 May 16, 2016 Planetary Position The Ujjain Kumbh Mela is held on the banks of Shipra River at Ujjain when Sun is in the zodiac sign Aries (M

Narasimha Stuti is chanted to get the blessings of Lord Narasimha – the avatar of Lord Vishnu. The prayer is for wish fulfillment and overcoming all forms of prayer. The Stuti in Hindi in pdf format is given below. The text or lyrics of Narasimha Stuti in Hindi language is provided by Sundar Kidambi of prapatti. It can be chanted daily morning and evening. Link  –  Hindi Narasimha Stuti Importance of Narasimha Stuti in Hinduism Narasimha Stuti holds a significant place in Hinduism, revered for its deep spiritual, cultural, and philosophical implications. Here’s an expanded view of its importance: 1. Mythological Significance Avatar of Protection : Narasimha, the half-man, half-lion incarnation of Vishnu, symbolizes the divine intervention that destroys evil and protects the righteous. The stuti celebrates this avatar who emerged to save Prahlada from his demon father Hiranyakashipu. Victory of Dharma : The narrative around Narasimha underscores the triumph of dharma (righteousness

Shiva, the greatest teacher, takes the Bhasmeshwar form to show to the world the futility of attachment and desires. Bhasmeshwar means one strewn with ash. He is at perfect ease being Himself. He has negated all socially accepted rituals and behaviors. He has detached himself from everything. Bhasmeshwar form of Shiva is the origin of the concept of the Avadhuta which was popularized by Lord Dattatreya and by many Saints. Ash-smeared Shiva roaming cremation ground is one of the most famous paintings used to depict this form. Shiva is the Supreme Truth and he extols through the Bhasmeshvar form that all that we hold dear, including our body, even the universe will one day turn into ash. Once this supreme truth is understood, then working and living society will become easy. We will not be bothered by false ideas of approval and social acceptance. Such a person will be more creative and helpful to the society.