Pratihareshwar Mahadev is worshiped in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the 84 forms of Shiva worshiped in Ujjain. Those offering prayers to Pratihareshwar Mahadev will become wealthy. The temple dedicated to Pratihareshwar Mahadev is located near the eastern door of Nagachandreshwar at Patni Bazar in Ujjain. This form of Shiva is associated with Nandi. Pratihareshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84 Shiva Temples in Ujjain and it is the 20th temple visited during the parikarama of Shivalayas here. Story of Pratihareshwar Mahadev form of Shiva in Ujjain After their marriage, Shiva and Goddess Parvati resided at the Mandiranchal Mountain. Nandi was asked to guard the entrance and not to let anyone inside. The lovemaking of the divine couple continued for years. Devas were worried that the child that will result from the copulation will destroy the world. So they decided to approach Shiva and find a solution. When t...

In Hinduism, prayers for healing—whether physical, mental, or spiritual—are deeply integrated into ritual practices, devotion to deities, and the recitation of specific mantras. Healing of the brain, which involves both cognitive and spiritual aspects, can be addressed through prayers to particular deities associated with health, wisdom, and strength. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to pray for brain healing, along with simple prayers, rituals, clothing suggestions, and practical advice for modern times. 1. Deities for Brain Healing Lord Dhanvantari : The god of medicine and Ayurveda, invoked for health and healing. Ashwini Kumaras : The twin gods of healing, known for their abilities to restore health. Lord Ganesha : The remover of obstacles and patron of wisdom, invoked for mental clarity and overcoming mental blocks. Lord Hanuman : Associated with strength and vitality, Hanuman helps in overcoming mental challenges and fears. Lord Shiva (Pashupati) : The Lord of animals and the...

In Hinduism, marriage is considered a sacred and divine union between two souls, often symbolizing the union of divine energies such as Shiva and Parvati, or Lakshmi and Narayana. Praying for the bride, especially around the time of her marriage, invokes blessings for a happy, prosperous, and harmonious married life. Below is an expanded guide with prayers, puja steps, mantras, and other aspects that can be incorporated into a meaningful prayer for the bride. 1. Ideal Deities to Worship for the Bride The following deities are commonly worshipped to bless the bride and the couple for a successful marriage: Shiva and Parvati : Symbolizing perfect marital harmony. Lakshmi Narayana : For wealth, prosperity, and good fortune in married life. Radha Krishna : Symbolizing eternal love and devotion. Brahma and Saraswati : For wisdom, creativity, and knowledge in building a harmonious life. Goddess Vaishnodevi : For strength, courage, and protection of the family. Lord Ganesha : To remove obstac...

Deepavali and Lakshmi Puja are one of the most important Hindu festivals in Tamil Nadu. Diwali in 2025 in Tamil Nadu is on October 20 as per Tamil Calendar. Lakshmi Puja will be held on October 20. Narak Chturdashi is observed as Diwali in Tamil Nadu. In Tamil Nadu and generally in South India , Deepavali is celebrated to commemorate the killing of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna. In Kerala, Deepavali is a low-key affair and some people consider it as the return of Lord Ram from exile. There may be difference in date and myth but the central theme that good wins over evil, remains the same. In  North India , Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Ram along with Sita and Lakshman from his 14 years of exile after killing Ravana.

Sateri Devi is a form of Mother Goddess Shakti worshipped in Goa and Maharashtra. She is Grama Devata or village deity. She is also the patron Goddess of many communities. There is no proper authentic information regarding her origin but she is a deity who protects people from evil forces. Sateri Devi is worshipped in murti form. She is depicted either in standing or sitting position. Sometimes devotees only get to view her head. She is depicted with two or four arms. She holds various weapons. Festivals associated with her vary from region to region. Numerous different types of rituals are dedicated to her. In some regions there is a palkhi dedicated to her. She is worshipped for early cure from diseases, for good rains and farm yield, for defeating enemies and for fulfillment of desires.

In Hinduism, marriage is considered a sacred bond, often symbolized by divine unions like those of Shiva-Parvati , Lakshmi-Narayana , and Radha-Krishna . When facing difficulties in a marriage, spiritual remedies and prayers are commonly turned to for restoring harmony, trust, and understanding. Below is an expanded guide on how to pray for a broken marriage, including ideal gods and goddesses, mantras, practical steps, and modern approaches. 1. Understanding the Spiritual Approach to Marriage in Hinduism Marriage as a Sacred Bond: Marriage (Vivaha) in Hinduism is seen as a sacred duty (Dharma) where two individuals come together to pursue righteousness, love, and spirituality. Therefore, when a marriage is troubled, it is often viewed as an imbalance in these principles. Importance of Worship: Prayers and pujas help seek divine intervention to balance these energies, fostering mutual respect, love, and understanding between partners. 2. Gods and Goddesses to Worship for Marital Harm...

Devi Patan Mandir is a popular Shaktipeetha, located at Tulsipur near Balrampur, in Uttar Pradesh. Ma Devi Patan Temple was established by Yogi Gorakshanathji and was renovated by King Vikramaditya. This very ancient shrine is on the banks of Siriya River. The temple is very popular with Hindus in Nepal. As per historical evidences, whenever Muslim invaders tried to ransack the temple they met with death. Honeybees killed Meer Samar sent by Aurangzeb for destroying the shrine. It is widely believed that it is at this spot Mata Sita prayed to Mother Earth to take her back. Mother Earth split up and took her in here. The main deity worshipped in the temple is known as Pateshwari and the place is Devi Patan. She is also known as Ma Pataleshwar. Legend has it that the Patambervastra of Ma Jagadamba fell here, so the word Patan was added with Devi, derived from Devi Sati’s Pat-paat-vastra. The legend is associated with the self-immolation of Goddess Sati at Daksha yajna. Le...

In Hinduism, relationships are considered sacred and are often blessed by the divine forces represented by gods and goddesses. If a relationship is broken or strained, devotees can seek divine intervention to mend it. This practice involves prayer, mantra recitations, and sometimes small rituals or pujas that invoke the blessings of the gods associated with love, unity, communication, and emotional healing. Gods and Goddesses for Relationship Healing In Hindu tradition, various deities symbolize aspects of love, partnership, and communication. Worshiping these deities can help restore harmony in broken relationships: Shiva and Parvati : The divine couple represents the perfect balance of masculine and feminine energies. Their relationship reflects unity, love, and commitment. Lakshmi and Narayana (Vishnu) : They represent harmony, protection, and prosperity in relationships. Worshipping them brings balance, peace, and emotional strength. Radha and Krishna : They symbolize unconditiona...

Rangoli patterns are an essential part of Lakshmi Puja during Diwali celebrations. These unique designs are known as ‘Kolam’ in Tamil Nadu. Today, colorful Rangolis are more preferred. Rangoli designs are drawn mainly to invite Goddess Lakshmi into the house. The two feet drawn along with the Rangoli designs symbolizes Godddess Lakshmi. Six petaled lotuses, pointed starts, hexagons are some of the patterns widely drawn during Diwali. In some areas, especially in North India , different types of colors are widely used in the Rangoli patterns. In South India , generally the designs are kept white in color. At night, Diwali diyas are lit on the Rangoli designs.

Bhagvan Sri Ram, Mata Sita and Lakshman were residing in the Chitrakuta Mountain during their exile period in the Ramayana. Kakasura, son of Indra, in the form a crow was flying over the Chitrakuta and noticed the divine couple. Sri Ram was lying on the lap of Mata Sita and sleeping. Kakasura came in the form crow and scratched Mata Sita. The painful cry of Sita woke up Sri Ram. Bhagavan Sri Ram immediately realized that the crow was Kakasura. He took up a sharp blade of grass, infused into it the spell of Brahma and directed it at the crow. Fearing for his life, Kakasura flew all over the world. But the divine arrow followed him. Trimurtis, Devas and Saints could not save Kakasura. Finally, Kakasura took refuge at the feet of Sri Ram. Bhagvan Sri Ram said that the Brahmastra could never become futile so the arrow will hit the right eye of Kakasura. Accordingly, the arrow struck the right of eye of Kakasura.

Praying for big things in Hinduism is deeply rooted in faith, sincerity, and devotion. When seeking blessings for significant life events like career success, health, prosperity, and inner peace, it’s essential to align your mind, body, and spirit with the divine forces. Here's an expanded guide on how to pray for big things in Hinduism, covering prayers, ideal deities, mantras, puja steps, and practical tips for modern times. 1. Ideal Gods and Goddesses to Worship for Big Prayers Lord Ganesha : The remover of obstacles and the deity invoked at the start of any endeavor. Hanuman : Represents courage, strength, and unwavering devotion. Surya (Sun God) : Symbolizes health, vitality, and power. Saraswati : Goddess of wisdom, knowledge, and arts, especially for educational pursuits. Lakshmi : Goddess of wealth, prosperity, and abundance. Durga : Embodiment of strength, power, and protection. Lord Jagannath : A form of Vishnu known for grace and protection, especially for big changes or...

Vaishvanara Agni, a prominent manifestation of Agni, the Vedic fire deity, is rich with symbolism and deep significance in Hinduism. The name "Vaishvanara" translates to "relating to all men" or "universal," indicating its connection to all beings and its integral role in the cosmos and individual lives. Symbolism and Characteristics Multiple Forms and Abodes: Vaishvanara Agni is known to manifest in various forms and dwell in three primary abodes: the earth, the atmosphere, and the heavens. This triadic presence underscores his role as a link between the terrestrial, atmospheric, and celestial realms. Physical Descriptions: Red Tongues: Symbolizing the consuming nature of fire and its role in transformation and purification. Seven Faces: Representing its omnipresence and multifaceted nature, allowing it to interact with various aspects of the universe. Huge Mouth: Indicating its capacity to devour and transform matter. Red Neck, Tawny Eyes, and Bright...

Vajra Deha is an unusual type of yogic achievement mentioned in the Yogasutra. Vajra deha is a human body, which has attained the strength of a diamond. The human body is made out of Panchabhutas or five elements. When the earth element responsible of hardness attains special dominance, the body can attain the hardness of a diamond. The belief is that such a body becomes so strong that no weapon made of any metal can harm it. Sage Dadhici is believed to have attained such a body by the power of his penance. It is also believed that in Ayurveda there are specific medicines that can give a person Vajra Deha.

In Hinduism, praying for someone's birthday is a beautiful way to bless the person with good health, prosperity, happiness, and spiritual well-being. There are several traditional and modern ways to pray for a birthday person, involving simple rituals, prayers, and mantras. This guide will offer you step-by-step suggestions, along with mantras and modern adaptations of these practices. 1. Simple Puja Steps You can perform a simple birthday puja for the person following these steps: Cleanse the Space : Start by purifying the space with water and lighting incense or dhoop. Set Up the Puja Altar : Place an image or idol of Lord Ganesha (the remover of obstacles), Hanuman (symbol of strength), Surya (the Sun God), and other deities based on your intention. You can include Lakshmi (goddess of prosperity), Saraswati (goddess of knowledge), or Dhanvantari (god of health). Light a Lamp (Diya) : Use ghee or oil to light a lamp, symbolizing divine presence. Offerings : Flowers : Offer fresh ...

Kukkuteshwar Mahadev is worshiped in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the 84 forms of Shiva worshiped in Ujjain. Those offering prayers to Kukkuteshwar Mahadev will get sins of their ancestors absolved. The temple dedicated to Kukkuteshwar Mahadev is located on the Gandhavati Ghat on the banks of Shipra River in Ujjain. This form of Shiva is associated with a king who used to take the form of a cock at night. Kukkuteshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84 Shiva Temples in Ujjain and it is the 21st temple visited during the parikarama of Shivalayas here. Story of Kukkuteshwar Mahadev form of Shiva in Ujjain There lived a king named Kroushik. He was very popular with his subjects due to his efficient rule. But the king used to get transformed into a cock at night. The queen was therefore unhappy. She consulted a saint who told her that the king was suffering from a curse of his previous birth. To get rid of the curse, the ...

Upapuranas occupy a very important place among Hindu scriptures. There are about eighteen or even more Upa Puranas or minor Puranas. They are equally important as the major puranas but some scholars treat them with lesser importance. The list of eighteen Upapuranas are: Santakumara,  Narasimha,  Skanda,  Sivadharma,  Ascharya,  Naradiya,  Kapila,  Vamana,  Asunas,  Brahmanda, Varuna,  Kalika,  Maheshwara,  Samba,  Saura,  Parasara,  Maricha  Bhargava. Majority of the Upapuranas appeared several centuries after the Mahapuranas or eighteen major Puranas. But there are some minor puranas whose antiquity is as same as the major puranas like Narasimha, Nandi, Samba and Aditya Puranas. Most of the Upa Puranas are treated as less important because they are taken as subsections of major puranas. The contents of the minor puranas are generally the same as those of the major Puranas....

A birthday in Hinduism is a moment of joy, gratitude, and divine connection. It’s a time to honor the Self, family, and the Divine for health, wealth, wisdom, and spiritual growth. You can celebrate your birthday with a simple puja (worship) at home, with prayers and mantras dedicated to specific deities. Below is a complete guide with details on prayers, mantras, ideal gods and goddesses to worship, practical steps, and clothing suggestions. 1. Simple Puja Steps for a Birthday Preparation: Clean the house and puja space where the ritual will be performed. Create a small altar or space where you can place pictures or idols of the deities. Choose the right clothes (explained later). Gather items : incense, diyas (lamps), flowers, fruits, sweets, a small bell, turmeric, vermilion (kumkum), and sacred water (Ganga Jal). Simple Birthday Puja: Begin with an invocation to Lord Ganesha : Light a lamp (diya) and incense. Mantra to Ganesha for removing obstacles: Om Gan Ganapataye Namah Wor...

In Hinduism, prayer and worship (puja) play a significant role in seeking a good life, whether it's for personal growth, health, prosperity, wisdom, or spiritual well-being. These practices are intended to align oneself with divine energies, seeking blessings from specific deities for various aspects of life. Below is an expanded guide that includes simple prayers, puja steps, appropriate clothing, ideal deities, mantras, and practical tips for modern times. How to Pray for a Good Life in Hinduism Prepare Yourself : Start by creating a peaceful environment, both externally and internally. Clean the space where you plan to pray or perform puja. Take a shower or wash your face and hands, and wear clean clothes. Clothes and Colors to Wear : For Ganesha (Lord of Success and Wisdom) : Yellow or red clothes are considered auspicious. For Hanuman (Strength and Devotion) : Saffron or red clothes. For Surya (Sun God, vitality, and health) : White, orange, or red. For Dhanvantari (God of Hea...

The original name of Sage Vyasa, the author of Mahabharata, is Krishna Dwaipayana Vyasa. The word Vyasa means split, differentiates, or describe and he gets this name after He divided the Vedas in four: Rik, Yajus, Saman, and Atharva. But the actual name of the sage is Krishna Dwaipayan. He was born of Satyavati, a fisher woman, and the wandering sage Parashara, who was the grandson of Sage Vasistha. Satyavati later married Shantanu. Vyasa's complexion was dark and therefore he was referred as Krishna and the couple had the child on one the islands (dwipa) of Yamuna River . That is how he got the name Krishna Dwaipayan. The island was covered by Badara (Indian jujube) trees, so he was also known as Badarayana.

Apsaras are stunningly beautiful celestial damsels. They are the dancers and singers of heaven. The story of the origin of Apsaras in Hindu religion is mentioned in the Puranas and they appeared during the Samudra Manthan – Churning of Ocean. Urvashi, Rambha, Tilottama, Kratusthala, Punjikasthala, Menaka, Sahajanya, Pramlocha, Anumlocha, Chritachi, Vishwachi, and Purvachiti are among the prominent Apsaras. Churning of the Ksheera Sagara, the celestial Milky Ocean , was performed by Devas and Demons to acquire Amrita (Nectar of immortality). Devas and Asuras faced numerous difficulties and they were solved by Vishnu and Shiva. Finally, churning proved successful and one after the other numerous things appeared. Apsaras were the seventh to appear from the churning. They then became the dancers and singers in the court of Devas.

In Hinduism, health and well-being are seen as an essential part of living a balanced and fulfilling life. Praying for better health is deeply rooted in Hindu tradition, and there are numerous deities associated with healing, knowledge, nourishment, and vitality. Here's a comprehensive guide to praying for better health, including simple prayers, puja steps, ideal gods or goddesses to worship, mantras, and practical ideas for modern times. 1. Ideal Gods and Goddesses for Health and Healing Several deities are invoked for health and well-being. Each one represents different aspects of health, ranging from physical well-being to mental peace and knowledge. Lord Dhanvantari : The divine physician and an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Dhanvantari is regarded as the God of Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medical system. Ashwini Kumaras : The twin gods of healing and medicine, often invoked for restoring health and vitality. Goddess Saraswati : The goddess of wisdom and learning, also asso...