Chamundi Hill is located around 15 km from Mysore. The main temple located atop the hill is the famous Chamundeshwari Temple. The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, a manifestation of Goddess Durga who slew the demon Mahishasura. This shrine was built during the 12th century AD. She is the tutelary deity of the kings of Mysore. Apart from the Hindu gods and goddesses, there are statues of kings and queens in the temple. There are 1000 steps leading to the shrine. The oldest temple on the hill is known as Mahabaleshwara Temple and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built during 950 AD.  The hill itself is known as Mahabaladri. The most striking image on the hill is that of Nandi, the vahana of Shiva. It is located three quarters on the way to the top at the 800 th step. The Nandi figure is nearly 15ft high and 24 ft long (4.2 X 7.2 m).

In Hinduism, animals, birds, and nature hold profound symbolic meanings and spiritual significance. Ducks, though not commonly highlighted like cows or peacocks, carry various spiritual connotations, and their presence can subtly influence different aspects of life, including our physical, mental, and social well-being. 12 Spiritual Benefits of Ducks in Hinduism Symbol of Purity and Clarity Ducks, like swans (Hamsa), represent the ability to navigate through water while keeping their feathers dry, symbolizing living in the world without being tainted by it. This trait encourages spiritual aspirants to stay detached from materialism while fulfilling worldly duties. Wisdom and Discernment Ducks have a natural ability to differentiate between what is beneficial (nourishment) and what is not, drawing a parallel with the ability of spiritual seekers to discern between truth (Sat) and illusion (Maya). This discernment, called "Viveka," is essential for spiritual growth. Connectio...

Story of Kalindi, wife of Sri Krishna, is found in the 10 Skanda of Srimad Bhagavad Purana. Kalindi was one of the wives of Sri Krishna. One day Sri Krishna and Arjuna went on a hunting excursion to the side of the Yamuna. Here they saw a beautiful girl. Arjun asked her who she was. The beautiful maiden replied: “I am Kalindi, daughter of Surya, the sun god. I am performing intense austerities to get Vishnu as my husband. I will continue with my Tapas and I shall have no other man as my husband.” She also informed Arjuna that she resides in the water of Yamuna in the palace built by her father for her. She will reside in it until she meets Krishna. Krishna immediately informed Krishna about the girl. Krishna took her to Indraprastha. Later Krishna took her in his chariot to Dwaraka and duly married her. Krishna and Kalindi had ten children.

Chaurasi Vaishnavon ki varta is a medieval text associated with the Pushti Sect, dedicated to the devotion of Krishna. It contains the biographical details of eighty four saints, poets and devotees of Pushti sect of Mahaprabhu Vallabacharya. The text is in prose and is in Braja language. The text was composed by a disciple of Vithalanatha, son of Vallabacharya. This is a valuable text as it contains information about the social situations and the attacks on Hindu culture, temples and sacred places by invaders. It also glorifies the great saints of Pushti sect. It narrates the efforts undertaken by saints, poets and devotees to preserve their tradition from invaders. 

Garri, a popular West African staple made from cassava, is not traditionally associated with Hinduism. However, we can approach this topic through the lens of general Hindu spirituality, Ayurveda (Hindu system of medicine), and the holistic principles of well-being in Hindu culture. While garri is not a native food in India, cassava is used in some parts of India and could be viewed through similar spiritual, physical, and mental health concepts. Here’s an expanded exploration that aligns with Hindu spiritual philosophy and Ayurvedic principles to highlight potential benefits, practices, and mantras: 12 Spiritual Benefits of Drinking Garri at Night Mindful Eating Practice In Hinduism, mindful consumption of food is encouraged. Drinking garri can promote mindfulness when prepared and consumed consciously, enhancing gratitude and fostering peace. Grounding Energy (Prithvi Tattva) Cassava is an earthy food, helping to balance the Prithvi tattva or earth element. Drinking garri at night c...

Rameshwar Mahadev is worshiped in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the 84 forms of Shiva worshiped in Ujjain. It is believed that those worshipping Rameshwar Mahadev will get relief from all forms of sin. The temple dedicated to Rameshwar Mahadev is located near the Sati Darwaja in Ujjain. This form of Shiva is associated with Parashuram, the sixth avatar of Vishnu. Rameshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84 Shiva Temples in Ujjain and it is the 29th temple visited during the parikarama of Shivalayas here. Story of Rameshwar Mahadev form of Shiva in Ujjain Parashuram went around the world and annihilated thousands of kings who followed Adharma. Finally, when he took rest and he wanted to know how to wash away the sins he had committed of unknowingly killing innocent people during his campaign to get rid of Adharma. Indra, the king of Devas, asked him to distribute the punya that he will receive after having darshan of Shiva...

Bhedaghat Yogini Temple is located on the banks of Narmada River at Bhedaghat in Madhya Pradesh. The shrine is dedicated to yoginis and is around 5 km from Jabalpur. There are usually 64 yoginis but at Bhedaghat there are 81 Yoginis. This is the largest known Yogini Temple in the world. The concept of 81 Yoginis is based Mattottara Tantra – a medieval tantric text from Nepal. The temple is in a dilapidated condition. The original murtis of yoginis belonged to the 10th century AD. They were mostly seated on animal mounts placed over inscribed pedestals and were heavily bejeweled. Of the nine main matrikas, seven can be identified (Brahmi, Maheshwari, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Indrani and Chandika ; two are missing (Chamunda and Mahalakshmi) and Kaumari of this group is traced to a nearby place called Mandla. Among the 81 Matrikas only 49 have been identified. Notable among them are Mahishasuramardini, Kamada and Sarvatomukhi.

In Hinduism, drinking water from a silver vessel, especially a silver glass, is considered highly auspicious. Silver has been associated with purity, healing, and spiritual significance for centuries. The metal is believed to imbue the water with spiritual and health benefits, affecting one’s mind, body, and soul. The practice has roots in ancient Ayurvedic wisdom and has been revered in Hindu culture for its ability to promote well-being and balance in life. 12 Spiritual and Practical Benefits of Drinking Water in a Silver Glass Purification of Water : Silver is known for its antimicrobial properties. When water is stored in a silver vessel, it purifies naturally, killing harmful bacteria and pathogens. This is linked with the spiritual concept of "Shuddhi" or purification, which is essential in Hindu rituals. Balances Body Energies (Doshas) : According to Ayurveda, drinking water from a silver vessel helps balance the "Vata," "Pitta," and "Kapha...

Spiritual Benefits of Dolphins in Hinduism: An In-Depth Exploration In Hinduism, animals play a significant role, symbolizing various qualities and principles of life. The dolphin, though not as prominently featured as other sacred animals like the cow or elephant, holds a unique place, especially in relation to the river Ganges. The Gangetic dolphin , known as Susu or Platanista Gangetica , is considered sacred and symbolizes purity, compassion, and spiritual awakening. Dolphins are viewed as intelligent, graceful, and peaceful creatures, embodying qualities that align with Hindu spiritual ideals. Here are 12 key spiritual and holistic benefits of dolphins in Hinduism, and how these benefits can extend to practical aspects of daily life. 12 Spiritual Benefits of Dolphins in Hinduism Symbol of Purity : Dolphins, especially the Gangetic dolphin, are seen as a symbol of purity, reflecting the pristine nature of the Ganges itself. By witnessing a dolphin in its natural habitat, one is re...

Spiritual Benefits of Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana) in Hinduism In Hinduism, yoga is not merely a physical exercise; it is deeply connected with spiritual practices that unite the body, mind, and soul. One of the most significant asanas (poses) in yoga is the Downward Facing Dog or Adho Mukha Svanasana , a foundational pose that offers a range of spiritual, mental, physical, and emotional benefits. Let’s explore these aspects in more detail, touching on how it integrates into daily life and contributes to overall well-being. 1. Harmonizes Energy Flow (Prana) In Hinduism, yoga aims to balance the flow of prana (life energy) within the body. The Downward Facing Dog is believed to activate the Sushumna Nadi (central energy channel), which helps in aligning and unblocking the flow of prana. This leads to a feeling of inner peace, vitality, and spiritual alignment. Practical Tip : Include this pose in your morning practice to balance energy for the day. 2. Awakens the Muladh...

Story of the marriage of Goddess Padmavati with Lord Venkateswara is closely associated with the origin of Tirumala Tirupati Balaji Temple. Goddess Lakshmi unable to bear the insult meted out by Sage Bhrigu to Lord Vishnu left Vaikunta. She was born on earth as Padmavati, the daughter of Aksharaja, a Tondaimandalam King. Padmavati grew up into a beautiful and talented girl. While playing in the Tirupati forests with her friends, she saw a young man on horseback. On being questioned, he revealed himself as Krishna, son of Vasudeva and Devaki. The young man was Vishnu himself. He realized that the maiden was Goddess Lakshmi and came near her with amorous intentions. However, this upset Padmavati. The young man withdrew to his abode in the Tirumala hills and pined for Padmavati. Vakulamalika, mother of Tirupati Balaji on earth, was aware that her son was none other than Vishnu himself. She decided to meet the king and, on her way, met Padmavati’s friends and learned from the...

Sandhi Dosha is a term used in Hindu astrology. It is based on the position of the planet (Rashi) in the 30 degree span. The zodiac is divided into 12 signs. All the nine planets span 30 degrees in each of the signs. While making predictions, strength of a planet is also obtained based on its longitude, varying from 0 to 30 degrees in the sign occupied by it. A planet, which is near the middle of the sign, is said to have maximum strength. It produces its maximum effect, good or bad. Otherwise, it produces weaker results in proportion to its distance from the middle. It suffers from Rashi Sandhidosha when it has just entered into a sign or is about to leave it. Such a planet has almost nil strength and produces hardly any effects, good or bad, for the native. The zodiac is also divided into 27 nakshatras. Therefore, a planet also suffers from nakshatra sandhi dosha, when it is passing from one asterism to another. Some of the other Sandhi dosha are Bhava Sandhi and Tithi ...

 In Hinduism, spirituality is deeply integrated with physical activity. Yoga, for example, is seen as a union of body, mind, and spirit. Physical exercises such as lunges can hold spiritual significance, especially when performed with awareness and intention. Lunges, while primarily known for their physical benefits, can contribute to one's mental and spiritual growth as well when done in a mindful, meditative manner. Below is a comprehensive expansion on the spiritual, physical, and mental benefits of doing lunges every day, including 12 specific benefits, day-to-day solutions, mantras, and more. Spiritual Benefits of Doing Lunges Every Day Enhances Prana (Life Force Energy): In Hindu philosophy, prana is the vital life force that flows through all living beings. Regular physical activity, such as lunges, encourages the circulation of prana in the body. When done mindfully with breath awareness, lunges can help clear energy blockages and improve the flow of prana, thereby enhanci...

As per Hindu scriptures, Brahma is said to have created four sons – Sanaka, Sanatana, Sanandana and Sanat Kumara. Sanata Sujata is another name of Sanat Kumara. The four sons were created when his wisdom was pure and pristine, devoid of any attachment. As per Linga Purana and Shiva Purana, Sanat Sujata is the most important among the four sons. He is mentioned widely in the Mahabharata. He enlightens Sage Vyasa, Bhisma, Dhritarashtra and Maharaja Prithu. Some of the popular stories like that of Tulsi, Andhaka etc are narrated by Sanat Sujata. The Mahabharata record his question answer session with King Dhritarashtra in the Udyog Parva under the section entitled Vidura Niti. The dialogue that happened between Dhritarashtra and Sanat Sujata in the Mahabharata is famous as Sanatsujatiya – an independent treatise on Brahmavidya. Related Teachings of Sanatsujata in the Mahabharata

Ramayana is also known as a work on the discipline of surrender – Dirgha Saranagati Sastra. The main characters in the epic reflect this concept. Devas surrender to Lord Vishnu. They pray for freedom from Demons or Rakshasas. Dasharatha surrenders to Sage Rishyasringa to conduct a yajna for begetting children. Sage Vishwamitra surrenders before Bhagavan Sri Ram for eliminating Rakshasas. Lakshmana and Mata Sita surrender to Bhagavan Sri Ram for accompanying him to the forest. Bharata surrenders and gets Rama’s paduaka or sandals for ruling Ayodhya. Sage of Dandakaranya surrenders before Lord Ram for eliminating Rakshasas. Sugriva surrenders before Rama for serving the Lord and gaining back his kingdom. Raksasis (attendants deputed by Ravana) surrenders before Mata Sita. Vibhishana surrenders before Sri Ram. Ravana before dying surrenders before Sri Ram. Mata Sita surrenders to Bhumata to prove her purity. This concept of Dirgha Saranagati Sastra or...

Comprehensive Guide to Worshipping Goddess Yoga Lakshmi in Hinduism Goddess Yoga Lakshmi is one of the eight forms of Lakshmi (Ashta Lakshmi), associated with spiritual wealth, well-being, and mental peace. Worshipping her is believed to bring overall prosperity, harmony, and success, particularly in personal and spiritual growth. In this guide, we will cover all aspects of the ritual to help you perform the puja in a simple, eco-friendly, and traditional manner. 1. Importance of Worshipping Yoga Lakshmi Worshipping Yoga Lakshmi holds special significance for those seeking inner peace, mindfulness, and spiritual enlightenment. She helps devotees connect with their higher selves, balancing both material and spiritual wealth. The benefits of her worship include: Inner peace and mental clarity Spiritual growth and enlightenment Harmonious relationships and a balanced life Success in personal and professional endeavors 2. Best Time for Worship Day : Fridays, especially during the evening,...

Shalya was the King of Madra in the Mahabharata. Her sister Madri was married to Prince Pandu. He was the uncle of Nakula and Sahadeva – the last of the two Pandava brothers. In the Kurukshetra battle, he fought on the side of the Kauravas. Legend has it that it was by cheating that Shalya was enticed to join the camp of Kauravas. As Shalya was approaching the Kurukshetra battlefield with his army, he found that, at each halting point, there were arrangements made for his comforts. Shalya thought it had been done by Yudhishtira. After enjoying the comforts at several places, he sent a message through one of the men to go to his master and state that Shalya would serve that master who had accorded such treatment. It was only later he realized that Duryodhana was that master. However, having given his word, he decided to keep it. Shalya fought bravely for Duryodhana. When Karna became commander-in-chief, he was asked to serve as Karna’s charioteer. But throughout his chario...

Shalokya is a concept in Shaiva Siddhanta. It envisages a four-fold path for a devotee to annihilate evil influence and to elevate the atma to attain bliss or the abode of Shiva. The four-fold path are: Charya Marga – In this path, devotees take care of the temples and sacred places of Lord Shiva. Kriya Marga – praising the glory of Shiva in temples and sacred places. Yogic Marga – is an advanced stage of spiritual experience, in which the devotee finds the entire universe to be equal. Jnana Marga – is reaching the highest through negation of that which is not truth. Through one of the above said path, a devotee freely moves into a new domain called Shalokya – Shiva’s abode. The enchantments of this world caused by Maya are annihilated in the abode of Paramatma.

Comprehensive Guide to Worshiping Goddess Bhoga Lakshmi in Hinduism Worshiping Goddess Bhoga Lakshmi, a form of Goddess Lakshmi, is believed to bring prosperity, abundance, and happiness. Bhoga Lakshmi represents material wealth and earthly pleasures, and her worship focuses on a bountiful and prosperous life. Here's a detailed guide on how to worship her, incorporating eco-friendly and traditional puja practices. 1. Importance of Worshiping Goddess Bhoga Lakshmi Goddess Bhoga Lakshmi is revered as the provider of wealth, abundance, and prosperity. Worshiping her helps devotees: Gain material wealth and financial stability. Achieve success in personal and professional life. Maintain peace and harmony in the household. Overcome obstacles related to poverty and financial crisis. Attract positivity and happiness in life. By honoring Bhoga Lakshmi, devotees invoke her blessings for a life filled with both spiritual and material fulfillment. 2. Cleanliness and Time of Worship Cleanlines...

Details regarding Hells in Hinduism are found in the Puranas especially the Garuda Purana. Kalasutram Hell is mainly used to punish those people who do not respect their parents and elders. This hell is terribly hot. In the Kalasutram Hell, people are bound with ropes by attendants of Yama and thrown into the hell. When such people are thrown in the Kalasutram Hell, they rush about in the unbearable heat and drop down exhausted. 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. 

Sakshi Gopal Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is located around 16 km from Jagannath Puri Temple. Sakshi means witness. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple has the murti of Lord Krishna along with Radha on the left side and the conjoined image of Lakshmi Narayana on the right side. Legend has it that Lord Krishna arrived on earth and followed a young man to become his witness before a village council. Thus he came to be known as Sakshi Gopal. There are three holy ponds near the temple and they are known as Chandana, Shyamakunda and Radhakunda. A garuda dhvaja, or flagstaff of Garuda, and a temple of Radha is found before the main sanctum sanctorum. The most important festival in the temple is conducted in the Kartik Month. The feet of the murti of Radha, which is covered throughout the year, is shown to devotees only on the ninth day during the waxing phase of moon in Kartik month. Related Story of Sakshi Gopal

Comprehensive Guide to Worshipping Goddess Deepalakshmi in Hinduism Goddess Deepalakshmi, also referred to as the goddess of light, prosperity, and good fortune, is often worshipped during Diwali or Karthika Deepam. She is an embodiment of Goddess Lakshmi, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. Worshipping her can bring peace, harmony, and prosperity to your home. Here is a comprehensive guide that includes details on the process of worship, benefits, puja items, mantras, and how to conclude the puja. 1. Benefits of Worshipping Goddess Deepalakshmi Brings prosperity and wealth: Worshipping Deepalakshmi is believed to invite prosperity, good luck, and financial stability into the household. Promotes spiritual growth: Lighting lamps and offering prayers to Goddess Deepalakshmi enhances mental clarity and brings spiritual awakening. Removes negative energies: It is said that the light of Deepalakshmi wards off negative energies and...