The 16th chapter of the Krishna Yajurveda contains 66 mantras and they are known as Sri Rudram. Devotees of Shiva perform abhisheka (sacred bath) on Shivling reciting these mantras. In every mantra, Rudra devata is praised. He is the embodiment of anger and fury. He is the controller of all vocations. People chant the Sri Rudram to pleas Him. The mantra is chanted for obtaining auspiciousness. It is also chanted for the destruction of all enemies.  Sri Rudram in Hinduism: Overview and Significance Sri Rudram , also known as Śrī Rudrapraśna , is an ancient and revered Vedic hymn dedicated to Lord Rudra, a fierce and benevolent form of Lord Shiva. It is found in the Taittiriya Samhita of the Krishna Yajurveda and is considered one of the most powerful and sacred chants in Hinduism. Structure and Composition Sri Rudram is divided into two main sections: Namakam (Namaḥ) : This section is characterized by repeated invocations of the word "namaḥ" (salutations or bowing)

The Rig Veda opens with Agnimile, which means ‘I praise Agni (Lord of Fire),’ who is seated before my eyes. Agni, or fire, symbolizes the light of spiritual knowledge leading one to Truth. Agni is nothing other than the innermost light that shines in all animate and inanimate as the Self, as inner consciousness. Rig is derived from the root ‘Rc’ meaning ‘to praise.’ The Rig Veda is made up of hymns in praise of the Divine. The great sages of yore are said to have perceived the eternal truth, and bequeathed to posterity their apprehensions of the numinous. These sagely revelations came to be known as Vedas, of which there are four: Rig, Yajus, Sama and Atharva. Source - My Mother, My Master By Swami Pranavamritananda Puri

Ishaneshwar Mahadev is worshiped in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the 84 forms of Shiva worshiped in Ujjain. Those offering prayers to Ishaneshwar Mahadev will be blessed with fame, wealth and siddhi. The temple dedicated to Ishaneshwar Mahadev is located at the bade darwaza at Modi ki gali in Ujjain. This form of Shiva is associated with Devas, or demigods, getting back heaven from Demon Tuhund. Ishaneshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84 Shiva Temples in Ujjain and it is the 16th temple visited during the parikarama of Shivalayas here. Story of Ishaneshwar Mahadev form of Shiva in Ujjain Legend has it that once demon Tuhund defeated the Devas and threw them out of heaven. He captured Airavat, the white elephant of Indra, and tied him in front of his palace. The Devas could not enter heaven and therefore they roamed on earth. On earth, they met Sage Narada who advised them to offer prayers to a Shivling located north of Indradhumneshwar in Mahakaal Vana,

Itu Puja is the worship of Surya, or Sun God, in Agrahan month in Bengal. The word ‘Itu’ has evolved from Mitu, which is a shortened form of Mitra. Itu Puja starts on the last day of Kartik month and is observed on all Sundays of the following month Agrahan. Sunday is considered auspicious for propitiating Surya. Itu Puja 2024 dates are November 17, November 24, December 1, December 8 and December 15. The puja was originally meant or the preservation of seeds of the winter crops. The puja is performed by both married and unmarried women. Once undertaken, a woman continues with its performance until her death or until she passes it on to her daughter or daughter in law. A bowl filled with earth and a pot filled with water are kept along with other household deities during the puja. The practitioner of the vrat eats vegetarian food on the day with no oil or turmeric. On the day of the morning of puja, she eats only fruits and sweets offered for the puja. For lunch, sh

Goddess Naikba Devi, also referred as Ma Naikba, is a manifestation of Mother Goddess and is worshipped mainly in Maharashtra. She is a village deity. The main temples dedicated to the Goddess are located in Satara and Sangli District in Maharashtra. Goddess Naikba Devi is a kind form of Goddess Shakti. She showers motherly love on her children. The murti or idol of Naikba Devi symbolizes kinds and motherly affection. She is worshipped for peace, prosperity, protection, good agriculture, healthy children, early cure of diseases and for victory over enemies. A main attraction of the murti is the large eyes. Her hands are in blessing posture. She is dressed like a Marathi woman. Naikba Devi removes darkness caused by Adharma. She upholds righteousness by protecting those who practice Dharma.

The Vaishnava Tilak is known as Urdhva Pundra or Urdhva Pundram. The shape of this tilak dedicated to Lord Vishnu consists of two vertical lines with a third one in between. It is generally worn on the forehead by both men and women. While applying the tilak one has to contemplate on Lord Vishnu. The material used for the tilak is pure soft clay. Sandalwood paste, holy ashes, and turmeric powder are also used for tilak by people depending on the tradition to which they belong. The lines of the pundra should be long, beautiful and attractive with a gap between the two lines that resemble the two feet of Lord Vishnu.

Comet is a bright object in space that has a tail of gas and dust. The story of origin of comets in Hindu tradition is associated with Shiva destroying the flying cities Tripuri. Legend has it that a powerful demon named Tripuri or Tripurasura built three impregnable cities of gold, silver and iron with the blessing of Shiva. The demon became so powerful and his inflated ego knew no bounds and started attacking and tormenting humans and demigods (devas) by flying on Tripuri. Brahma and Vishnu failed to contain Tripurasura who was armed with several boons from Shiva. Finally, the task of annihilating the demon fell on Shiva. The flying cities could be destroyed only with a single arrow. For this the cities had to align in a straight line. Once in a while the cities aligned in a straight line for a split of a second. Shiva was the only archer who could destroy the cities. For this purpose, Vishnu himself turned into the fiery arrow – Vishnu Shastra. Shiva chased the t

Sashtang Pranam, or Sashtanga Pranamam, is lying face down on earth and offering prayers to God in a Hindu Temple . Sashtang Pranam is one among the numerous ways to wipe out the ego. By lying down before the deity, a Hindu is killing his/her ego and recognizing the Supreme Truth – there is no second only that exists. When pride and ego are quelled, majority of our problems are solved. This helps in controlling stress and depression. Sashtang Pranam at a temple during early morning hours helps a person to have a good and fruitful day. Sashtang Pranam is also considered as a very good form of exercise. Lying down on stomach and stretching both the arms in front and bringing them together helps in good blood circulation. Sashtang Pranam, a full-body prostration in which a devotee lies face down on the ground with arms extended forward, is a significant practice in Hindu worship, particularly in temples. The term "Sashtang" is derived from the Sanskrit words "

Hindu Calendar 2017 with Tithi in pdf for free download is in English and is based on Calendars followed in North India – Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand. A month in this Hindu calendar begins after Purnima and ends on Purnima. All important festivals and fasting 2017 dates are marked in the calendar. Link –  Download Hindu Calendar 2017 with Tithi in pdf The calendar is based on Purnimat system. A traditional Hindu month begins after Purnima or full moon day. Related Hindu Calendar 2018

There are numerous stories regarding the origin of Mangal Navagraha. One of the famous stories is that Mangal Navagraha is the son of Vishnu and Bhumi Devi. Legend has it that demon Hiranyaksha in the form of a pig carried Bhumi (Mother Earth) to the netherworld (Patala Loka). Vishnu then took the form of Varaha Avatar and rescued Her. When Bhumi Devi was saved from the demon, she assumed her real beautiful form. Vishnu fell in love with Her. They were later blessed with a son, Mangal. As per Skanda Purana Mangal was born out a drop of sweat of Vishnu and was nursed by Bhumi Devi. It must be noted here that as per Padma Purana Mangal is the son of Shiva. Vamana Purana states that Mangal was born when Shiva killed demon Andhaka.

Silambam is the famous stick fight practiced in Tamil Nadu. It is also known as Kuchi Vilaiyattu and Kambu Vilaiyattu. It was originally practiced with bamboo sticks; later, steel swords and shields were used. Silambam Meaning The word ‘silam’ means hill and ‘bam’ means bamboo or ‘perambu’ out of which the staff (stick) is made.  Silambam History The 3,000-year-old martial art, perhaps one of the oldest has evolved from being an art employed in warfare, combats, competitive sports, performance arts to being a fitness regime. Known as the pride of Tamil Nadu, Silambam was earlier used as self-defense by tribals and was eventually mastered by our ancestors to prove their vigour and masculinity. Like how Sage Patanjali is to yoga, Sage Agastya is to Silambam. We can find information about the martial art in palm leaf manuscripts under the topic Kambusoothram. Silambam was practiced predominantly during the period of Chola, Chera and Pandyas. Eventually, through Bodhi Dharma, the awarene

The goal of life in many spiritual traditions is self-realization, the understanding and experience of one's true nature and unity with the divine. In the context of Hindu philosophy, there are four primary paths or yogas to achieve this goal, each suited to different temperaments and inclinations. These paths are not mutually exclusive but are complementary, allowing individuals to incorporate aspects of each to enhance their spiritual development. The four paths are Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Raja Yoga, and Jnana Yoga. Karma Yoga (The Path of Selfless Action) Karma Yoga focuses on selfless action performed for the benefit of others without any attachment to the results. It involves performing one's duties with an attitude of detachment and surrender to the divine. This path is particularly suitable for individuals who are action-oriented and wish to serve humanity. Purification : Karma Yoga removes mala (dirt), which symbolizes the impurities of the mind. By engaging in selfle

Story of Demon Darika and Goddess Bhadrakali is famous in South India especially in Kerala. The story is the reason for the origin of many temples in Kerala. Legend has it that once Asuras, or demons, were defeated by Devas and they had to retreat to the netherworld. Two Asura women then did intense penance and propitiated Brahma who gave them the boon that they would give birth to two powerful sons. In due course of time, the women had two sons named Danavendra and Darika. Danavendra and Darika then did intense Tapas and propitiated Brahma. They attained the boon from Brahma that men, gods or demons would not be able to kill them. They also got the boon that they would have the strength of thousand elephants. With such invincible powers, Danavendra and Darika attacked the Devas and drew them out of heaven. Devas asked Sage Narada to help them. Sage Narada went to Kailash and asked Shiva to intervene and wipe out Adharma being propitiated by the demons. Shiva the

The four sacred ponds in Puri (the holy city in Hinduism which houses the famous Jagannath Temple) are Indradyumna, Narendra, Markandeya and Swetaganga. Indradyumna, located near Gundicha Temple, is holiest among the four. Indradyumna pond is 396 X 485 feet in size and is named after king Indradyumna. Nilakantheshwara murti is located on the southwest bank of the pond. Narendra pond, also known as Chandanpokhari is 834 X 873 feet in size. It has a platform housing a temple in its center. Chandan Yatra is held in the pond. Markandeya pond is 370 X 530 feet in size. It has eight Matrika images. Two Shiva temples – Markandeshwara and Nilakanteshwara – are located on its banks. Swetaganga is situated south of Jagannath Temple. Murtis of Svetamadhava and Matsyamadava are found on its banks.

Apsareshwar Mahadev is worshiped in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the 84 forms of Shiva worshiped in Ujjain. Those offering prayers to Apsareshwar Mahadev will be blessed with the material comfort that they are seeking. The temple dedicated to Apsareshwar Mahadev is located at Patni Bazar on the northern side of Modi ki gali in Ujjain. This form of Shiva is associated with Apsara Rambha. Apsareshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84 Shiva Temples in Ujjain and it is the 17th temple visited during the parikarama of Shivalayas here. Story of Apsareshwar Mahadev form of Shiva in Ujjain Apsara Rambha was once cursed by Indra, the king of Devas. She fell on earth and was in a sad state. On earth, she met Sage Narada. He asked Rambha to offer prayers to a particular Shivling at Mahakaal Vana (Ujjain) which is famous for desire fulfillment. Rambha performed pujas before the Shivling and she was able to please Mahadev. She got back her position in heaven and bless

Chikkanahalli Nagappa Temple is located at Chikkanahalli near Ramanagara in Bangalore, Karnataka. This is a very popular Naga or Snake shrine in the region. The serpent temple is famous because it has a naturally formed Naga murti (idol). It is also believed that the Naga murti worshipped in the temple is growing in size. The murti of Naga worshipped in the shrine is in sleeping position on a huge stone slab. The temple is famous for Sarpa Dosha Nivarana. Devotees find relief to various Naga Doshas after offering prayers in the shrine. Many people certify that they have attained peace, wealth, prosperity and good health after offering prayers in the shrine.

Mahalasa Narayani is a manifestation of Goddess Shakti. Some people believe that she is a manifestation of the Mohini Avatar of Hindu God Vishnu. Goddess Mahalasa Narayani is worshipped mainly in Goa, parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka. The most important temple dedicated to the Goddess is located at Mardol (Vernem) in Goa . Legends and the information on the manifestation of Mahalasa Narayani are mentioned in the Skanda Purana. Legend has it that the Goddess Mahalasa Narayani appeared on earth to annihilate a demon named Chandasur, who had created havoc in the region. It is said that Parashuram, the fifth incarnation of Vishnu, asked people to offer prayers to the Goddess so that she will annihilate the demon. In this form she is an incarnation of Goddess Shakti. The Brahmanda Purana mentions that Goddess Mahalasa Narayani is a manifestation of Mohini Avatar of Vishnu. This legend connects Mahalasa Narayani with the Malhari Martand Bhairav incarnation of Shi

Ketu is one of the Navgrahas or nine planets revered in Hinduism. In astrology, Ketu is significant and is believed to influence an individual's horoscope for a period of seven years. Worshiping Ketu is done to mitigate the negative effects in one's horoscope, which can include skin diseases caused by an unfavorable Ketu position in the Kundali. Ketu is often worshiped alongside Lord Shiva. Materials Needed for Ketu Puja: Oil Til (sesame seeds) Blanket Clothes Blue flowers Items for donating to the poor and needy Steps to Perform Ketu Puja: Preparation: Choose a suitable place and clean the area where the puja will be performed. Set up an altar with an idol or image of Ketu and Lord Shiva. Arrange all the required items neatly. Best Time: The most auspicious time to perform Ketu Puja is at night. Offering and Worship: Light a lamp using oil and place it in front of the deity. Offer til (sesame seeds), which is considered sacred for Ketu. Place a blanket and clothes as off

Kalababhishekam is an important offering made by Ayyappa devotees at the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple in Kerala. It is among the one of the four most important Abhishekams performed at the temple. The puja items used in Kalabhishekam are freshly prepared Sandalwood paste and rose water or Panineer. Lord Ayyappa is also known as Abhisheka Priya due to his fondness for Abhishekam. In the Abhishekam ritual the deity is showered with his favorite puja item. The most popular Abhishekam at the temple is the Neyyabhishekam .

The story of celestial nymph Swayamprabha took place when Hanuman and the Vanarasena (Monkey army) was searching for Sita. While searching for Sita, Hanuman and friends reached a desert. They did not find any food and water for several days. Matters got worse when some Vanaras fell down due to thirst. If they did not find water in another day many monkeys would die. Hanuman then noticed birds with wet wings leaving a cave. Immediately, the Vanarasena ran into the cave and found a lake inside the cave. Fruit bearing trees grew in abundance on the banks of the lake. Vanaras refreshed themselves and took rest in the cave. Hearing the commotion, a figure emerged from another area of the cave. It was the beautiful nymph Swamyaprabha. She was happy to see the Vanarasena. Swayamprabha was cursed by Indra, the king of the Devas, to live a life of solitude for helping a nymph escape with her demon lover. Swayamprabha did not want the Vanarasena to leave so she kept them en

Ankusa (Goad) is an important weapon in the hand of Ganesha . Goad is held on the upraised right hand of Ganesh – not all artists follow this rule. So you will see Ganapati images with or without goad. Symbolically, goad assures a devotee that Ganesha will remove all the obstacles and difficulties. Ganesha also uses the goad to pull out people who take the path of Adharma. Just as a mahout uses the goad to control the elephant, Ganesha uses it to pull people towards dharma. Symbolically, Ganesha will only bless those devotees who are on the path of Dharma. For those that follow Adharma He will create several obstacles to make them realize truth. It is also believed that goad is used to give a hint to the devotees to understand the need to severe attachments.  Here’s an expanded exploration of its symbolism: 1. Control and Guidance The goad, traditionally used to direct and control elephants, symbolizes Ganesha's role as a guide and leader. It represents the power to remov

Mainda is one of the monkeys mentioned in the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The vanara was a minister of King Sugriva. He was one of the leaders who led the monkeys who went in search of Mata Sita. In the battle in the Ramayana, he along with other Vanaras fainted. They woke up after they were sprinkled with water given by Kubera. During the Mahabharata period, Mainda was living in a cave in Kishkinda. Sahadeva, one of the Pandavas, who led a victory campaign to South, was defeated by him. Mainda was pleased with the courage of Sahadeva. He gave him valuable gifts and supported his campaign.

Dhan Lakshmi, or Dhanalakshmi, is one of the manifestations of Goddess Lakshmi and in this form she symbolizes material wealth. Although Goddess Lakshmi has numerous other attributes and symbolisms but this is most popular form of Goddess Lakshmi for majority of people in today’s world. The story of Dhana Lakshmi and the power of material wealth is closely associated with the story of Goddess Padmavati and Lord Balaji (Venkateswara). Legend has it that once Goddess Lakshmi and Bhagavan Vishnu had some quarrel and in anger Goddess Lakshmi left Vaikunta and came and resided on earth as Goddess Padmavati. Soon Lord Vishnu came in search of her and resided on earth as a forest dweller. Goddess Padmavati was now the daughter of a rich king. Soon Vishnu and Goddess Padmavati met. He wanted to marry her but a poor forest dweller did not have the wealth to make the daughter of a king his wife. Finally, it is said that Lord Vishnu took loan from Kubera, the treasurer of Gods. Ku

The fourth day after new moon and fourth day after full moon in the Hindu calendar is observed as Chaturthi and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Most people must be aware of only the Ganesh Chaturthi festival that takes place in the month of Bhadrapada (August-September). But there are two Chaturthis in a month – Sankashti and Vinayaki – and staunch Ganesha devotees observe a fast on the Chaturthi after full moon and this is considered very important. The monthly Chaturthi day which falls after full moon in which a fast (fasting) is observed is known as Sankashti Chaturthi. The fast ends on the day after moonrise. Special Ganesh pujas are done in the evening. The monthly Chaturthi after Amavasya or new moon is known as Vinayaki Chaturthi. When Sankashti Chaturthi falls on Tuesday, it is known as Angarki Chaturthi and it is considered highly auspicious. The benefits of Chaturthi fasting include material progress, happiness and fulfillment of desires. The import

Palakapya is the author of well known Ayurveda text which deals with the health of elephants. Legend has it that Sage Palakapya was the son of Sage Samagayana and a female elephant, which had accidently drunk the sage’s urine containing his semen. He is believed to be an incarnation of Dhanvantari and lived on the banks of Brahmaputra River. Hastyayurveda Text is a comprehensive work on elephant medicine. The text is partly in prose and partly in verse. It is in the form of a dialogue between the Asga King Romapada and Palakapya. This text extensively deals with the characteristics of elephants, their life span, diseases and their management. The diseases are classified and their management described in a similar order as that of humans, as described in classics such as Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita. Panchakarma procedures (five purificatory methods) as well as rasayana (rejuvenative) techniques for elephants are described in detail in this text. The text also describes the

Sharmistha, daughter of Vrisha Parva, was the childhood friend of Devyani. The story of Sharmitha, Devayani (daughter of Shukracharya) and Yayati is found in the Adi Parva of the Mahabharata. It is also mentioned in the Bhagavata Purana. She is also the mother great King Puru. Once, a quarrel broke out between Devayani and Sharmistha. It turned into a physical fight and Devayani fell into a well. King Yayati who happened to pass by pulled her out. Devayani was extremely angry and was pacified only when Sharmistha agreed to be her servant. Soon, Devayani was married to King Yayati. Sharmistha also went to Yayati’s palace as the servant of Devayani. Yayati fell in love with Sharmistha. They had an affair, and she gave birth to three sons – Anu, Druhya and Puru. When Devayani came to know about this, she was terribly annoyed and went to stay with her father. Sage Shukracharya cursed Yayati that he would lose his youth forthwith. But the youngest son of Yayati, Puru,

Harivarasanam the most famous song dedicated to Lord Ayyappa is recited just prior to closing of the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple doors at night. Here is the Harivarasanam lyrics (text) in Malayalam and English. Harivarasanam Viswamohanam Haridadhiswaram Aaradhyapadhukam Arivimardhanam Nithyanarthanam Hariharatmajam Devamashreye Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa Saranakirtanam Bakhtamanasam Bharanalolupam Narthanalasam

The unique temple dedicated to Karna, who was abandoned Kunti, mother of Pandavas He eventually allied with the Kauravas and fought against his brothers, the Pandavas. At the temple it is not warrior Karna who is worshipped but Dhanveer Karna. The great warrior was famous for his charitable nature. Respecting the philanthropic aspect of Karna, the villagers of Netwar propagate his ideals. The village has banned giving or taking of dowry. The Karna Temple is a rectangular wood structure with roofs lined with slates. The top of the temple has a wooden umbrella. The wooden beams and columns are noted for the scenes from the Mahabharata and carvings of birds, animals and reptiles.

Ashtabhishekam is offering of eight items to God in Hinduism. At Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple Ashta Abhishekam is one of the important offering made by devotees. Although not as popular as Neyabhishekam , this puja and ritual is performed by thousands of Ayyappa devotees. The eight items used for Ashta Abhishekam at Sabarimala Temple are: Vibhuti Milk Honey Panchamrutham Tender coconut water Sandalwood or Chandan Rosewater or panineer Water Lord Ayyappa is also known as Abhisheka Priyan and some of the important abhishekams at the temple are Neyyabhishekam, Ashtabhishekam, Kalasabhishekam and Pushpabhishekam. Please note that Ashtabhishekam offered in Hindu Religion varies from temple to temple.

Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Mahaswamiji  (20 May 1894 – 8 January 1994), or the Sage of Kanchi, was the 68th Jagadguru of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham - talks about the path of self control.  Having told Arjuna that a Sthita Prajna is one with an unruffled mind, one who has completely overcome all desires and passions, Sri Bhagavan says to Arjuna that such a person withdraws his mind from external thoughts in order to contemplate the Atman within, which is Full and All-pervasive, in the same manner as a tortoise withdraws its limbs within its shell at the slightest sign of danger.    We desire a thing because of a feeling of incompleteness without it. But when we realise that what we ordinarily understand as "We" is nothing but the Absolute Bliss, the illusive pleasures after which the senses go lose their charm. Fire can never be quenched by giving it more fuel; the more we feed it, the more it burns. Similarly, our desires only increase by enjoyment. At the same

Kalkaleshwar Mahadev is worshiped in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the 84 forms of Shiva worshiped in Ujjain. Those offering prayers to Kalkaleshwar Mahadev will never have to face fights in life. The temple dedicated to Kalkaleshwar Mahadev is located at Modi ki gali in Ujjain. This form of Shiva is associated with a fight between Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Kalkaleshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84 Shiva Temples in Ujjain and it is the 18th temple visited during the parikarama of Shivalayas here. Story of Kalkaleshwar Mahadev form of Shiva in Ujjain Once, Lord Shiva made fun of the skin tone of Goddess Parvati. He told her that she was kali, or had dark complexion. This led to a big fight between the divine couple. The entire universe shook and there was chaos all around. All living beings prayed for peace. Then a Shivling appeared on earth and it brought peace in the universe. As the Shivling brought peace in the universe, the Devas called it Kal

Some Shivlings are oval shaped especially the Banalinga. God as per Hindu concept is formless and That can only be represented symbolically. Shivling in the shape of oval is one such form and here is the reason for the oval shape. Symbolically the oval-shaped Shivling represents the universe. It is divided into two halves sky and earth. The Linga Purana gives an apt interpretation of the Shivling as a cosmic pillar, symbolizing the infinite nature of Shiva. It describes the Shivling as a complete symbolic representation of the formless universe, where the oval-shaped stone describes the entire manifested universe; the bottom base is representative of the supreme power that holds the entire creation in it. The oval has the shape of an egg. Egg is considered the source of life in which both male and female forms are united.

Galava Maharshi was a distinguished sage and grammarian whose contributions are acknowledged in various Hindu texts. He is prominently mentioned in the Markandeya Purana and is recognized in the list of teachers in the Shukla Yajurveda . Additionally, the great Sanskrit grammarian Panini also references Galava Maharshi in his works, underscoring his significance in the field of Vedic and Sanskrit scholarship. Contributions and Legends Markandeya Purana : According to the Markandeya Purana , Galava Maharshi faced oppression from a powerful demon. In his distress, he was aided by Ritadvaja, the son of King Satrujita. Despite the demon's formidable strength, Ritadvaja managed to defeat the demon with the help of a divine horse gifted to him by Galava Maharshi. This horse was originally presented to Galava by the Devas (gods). Shukla Yajurveda : Galava Maharshi is listed among the distinguished teachers in the Shukla Yajurveda , indicating his role in the dissemination and teaching

In Hindu religion, the Pasha (noose) holds significant symbolism and practical application, particularly as a weapon. This unique weapon is often depicted in various Hindu scriptures and iconography, representing both its literal use and its deeper symbolic meanings. Description and Physical Characteristics The Pasha is typically depicted as a noose made from materials such as cotton thread, munja grass, leather, or sinews of animals. It consists of two or three ropes, often formed into a triangular shape and adorned with balls of lead to enhance its effectiveness. According to descriptions in the Agni Purana, the noose can be up to thirty cubits long, approximately 45 feet, and is folded into three rings for practical usage. It is held on the left side of the wielder, then moved to the right and skillfully whirled over the head to ensnare the opponent. Techniques of Usage The Agni Purana outlines eleven ways to skillfully wield the Pasha, highlighting its versatility as a weapon. The

The equilateral triangle holds significant symbolism in Hinduism, permeating various spiritual and ritualistic practices, including chakras, yantras, and Tantric rituals. Equilateral Triangle in Chakras and Yantras In Hindu metaphysical tradition, chakras are energy centers within the human body, and yantras are mystical diagrams used for meditation and invoking deities. The equilateral triangle is a fundamental shape within these contexts. It is often incorporated into yantras, such as the Sri Yantra, which is a complex interlocking of multiple triangles that represent the cosmos and the human body. Each triangle in the Sri Yantra symbolizes different aspects of divinity and existence, contributing to the overall sacred geometry that is believed to bring spiritual and material benefits. Tantric Rituals In Tantric practices, the equilateral triangle is used as a tool to focus energy and intention. Tantra, which emphasizes the use of symbols, mantras, and rituals to achieve spirit

The Asmarohanam Ceremony is a significant ritual in Hindu marriages, embodying deep symbolism and traditional values. This ceremony typically occurs at the groom's house and is marked by several important actions and prayers. Steps and Significance Invocation and Vows: The groom addresses his bride as "Mahishi," meaning queen, signifying respect and the importance of her role in his life. He asks his bride to treat all his relatives equally, emphasizing the importance of familial harmony and unity. The groom prays to the family deity for blessings, seeking a long life, prosperity, progeny, and happiness. This invocation underscores the spiritual foundation of their union and the blessings of the divine. Performing the Asmarohanam Ceremony: The groom gently lifts the bride’s foot and places it on a stone, traditionally used for grinding spices. As he does this, he recites, "May you be as strong as this stone," symbolizing strength, resilience, and steadfastness.

When we observe mankind itself, we see vast masses of people in different parts of the globe with an improved material lot, but without corresponding satisfaction and happiness, which ought to have been the result of this external progress. If man is to truly improve and advance, he must do so on all levels and in all spheres of life and activity. Man’s possessions have been increased, but not his joy of living. Emami Temple Balasore Odisha The imbalance between outward advancements and the basic degeneracy undergone by the human individual is the root-cause of the unhappy state in which humanity finds itself today, fraught with fear, uncertainty and with a sense of insecurity. People do not want to think of the present. Either they project themselves into a future when man will perhaps have solved all his present problems, or they think wistfully of the past when things seem to have been better. This is due to the basic error that the entire power of man’s mind, his percept

Uttanka was the most intelligent and obedient student of Sage Vedamuni. He followed Dharma and this earned him the blessings of his Guru who blessed him with the knowledge and wisdom to become an authority on all scriptures. When Uttanaka’s education was complete, he asked his Guru to have his Guru Dakshina. The Guru asked him to pay him what his wife wants. Uttanka asked his Guru’s wife as to what she wanted as Guru Dakshina. The wife said that she would be observing a fast known as Punyaka. She wanted the divine earrings that belonged to King Paushya’s queen to complete the fast. The fasting date is in three days time. Uttanka immediately left to accomplish the mission. On the way to the palace, he met Indra, atop a bull. Indra made him eat a bit of bullock’s dung for his welfare. King Paushya was happy to welcome Uttanka. When Uttanka told about his mission, the king asked him to talk directly to the queen. The queen was ready to help Uttanka and gave him the

Panchachara are the five codes of conduct in Virashaivism or Lingayat Sect. They are: Lingachara – daily worship of Shivling as the only God. Sadachara – leading moral and virtuous life. Shivachara – all people are to be treated as the devotees of Shiva. Bhrtyachara – humility towards Shiva and his devotees. Ganachara – good conduct of gana or group. No devotee can bear the use of abusive language against the master and ill treatment of men and animals. The obligation is to promote the welfare of everyone and thereby develop Lingayat sect. Basavanna is considered to be the founder of Lingayatism or Lingayat Sect or Veerashaivism. The sect brought about sweeping social changes in Karnataka and surrounding regions around 900 years ago. Panchachara, or the Five Codes of Conduct, are foundational principles in Virashaivism or the Lingayat sect, emphasizing devotion, morality, and community welfare. These codes guide the followers' daily lives and interactions, foste