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.

Comprehensive Guide to Worshiping Shivling in Sawan Month in Hinduism Worshiping Lord Shiva during the auspicious month of Sawan (also known as Shravan ) holds great significance in Hinduism. Sawan is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and devotees believe that offering prayers to the Shivling during this time brings peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Below is a detailed guide on how to worship Shivling in Sawan, focusing on cleanliness, eco-friendly traditions, and simple steps to perform the puja. 1. Cleanliness & Preparation for Puja Cleanliness is a crucial part of any puja, especially when worshiping Lord Shiva. Before starting the puja: Personal Cleanliness : Take a bath early in the morning before beginning the ritual. Wear clean and fresh clothes. Altar Cleanliness : Clean the area where the Shivling is placed, ensuring it is free from dust and dirt. Use water or holy Ganga water to purify the space. Shivling Cleanliness : Clean the Shivling with fresh water or milk before be...

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...

 How to Worship Shiva and Shakti in Hinduism: A Comprehensive Guide Worshiping Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti together symbolizes the union of divine masculine and feminine energies, which is at the core of many Hindu practices. This guide will help you perform a simple, eco-friendly Shiva-Shakti Puja, outlining all the essential aspects, from preparation to completion, with a focus on sustainability. 1. Cleanliness and Preparation Personal Cleanliness: Before starting the puja, take a bath to purify your body. Wearing clean clothes is essential, as personal hygiene is a sign of respect when connecting with the divine. Altar Cleanliness: Clean the area where the puja will take place, ideally a small, dedicated shrine at home. Wipe the altar with a clean cloth, and arrange all puja items in an orderly manner. 2. Appropriate Time for Shiva-Shakti Worship Morning (Brahma Muhurta) : The best time to perform Shiva-Shakti Puja is early in the morning, during Brahma Muhurta (approximatel...

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 .....

  Comprehensive Guide to Worshipping the Shivling on Monday in Hinduism Worshipping Lord Shiva, especially in the form of the Shivling, is considered highly auspicious in Hinduism, particularly on Mondays. Monday is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is believed that offering prayers on this day helps one attain blessings for health, wealth, success, and inner peace. This guide will provide a step-by-step outline of how to perform a simple yet spiritually enriching Shivling Puja on Monday using eco-friendly, traditional items. Preparation and Cleanliness Personal Cleanliness : Before beginning the puja, ensure you are clean by taking a bath. Cleanliness is not just physical but also mental; approach the puja with a pure heart and mind. Altar Cleanliness : The area where the puja will be performed, especially the space where the Shivling is placed, should be thoroughly cleaned. Use natural cleaners like water mixed with a few drops of Ganga Jal or Tulsi leaves. Clothes : Wear fresh clo...

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...

  Comprehensive Guide on How to Worship Sudarshan Chakra in Hinduism Worshiping the Sudarshan Chakra holds immense significance in Hinduism, especially for protection, victory over enemies, and spiritual upliftment. The Sudarshan Chakra is the divine discus of Lord Vishnu and symbolizes his power to protect and preserve the universe. This guide will walk you through every aspect of performing a simple, eco-friendly, and traditional Sudarshan Chakra Puja. 1. Importance of Sudarshan Chakra Worship The Sudarshan Chakra represents divine energy, spiritual power, and the omnipresence of Lord Vishnu. Worshiping the Sudarshan Chakra: Removes obstacles and negative energies Provides protection from evil forces Helps in achieving spiritual growth Bestows peace, harmony, and success Helps overcome enemies, diseases, and misfortunes 2. Pre-Puja Cleanliness and Purity Before starting the puja, ensure cleanliness in both the environment and the worshipper: Personal Cleanliness : Take a bath ea...

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. 

  Comprehensive Guide to Worship Subramanya Swamy in Hinduism Worship of Lord Subramanya (also known as Kartikeya, Murugan, or Skanda) is significant in Hinduism, particularly in South India. Lord Subramanya is the deity of valor, wisdom, and is the son of Lord Shiva and Parvati. Devotees offer prayers to seek his blessings for courage, health, and the destruction of obstacles. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of worshiping Lord Subramanya Swamy, emphasizing eco-friendly practices, traditional methods, and simplicity. 1. Preparations for Worship Time and Day Tuesday is considered particularly auspicious for Subramanya Swamy worship, but Sashti Tithi (sixth day after the new or full moon) is the most revered day for special pujas. Morning is the best time to perform the puja, preferably after a bath, in a clean and peaceful environment. Cleanliness Purity of body and mind is crucial. Take a shower before starting the puja, and wear clean clothes. Ensure ...

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 pige...

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 t...