A Comparative Study: Pitr in Hindu Religion and Amabele in Xhosa Mythology 1. Introduction Both Pitr in Hinduism and Amabele in Xhosa mythology hold profound significance in their respective cultures as ancestral spirits, acting as spiritual guides and protectors. These deities or spirits are linked to the concept of ancestral veneration, where the deceased ancestors are considered vital to the well-being and fortune of the living. Although the cultural contexts and practices around them differ, both Pitr and Amabele share key functions as spiritual intermediaries. 2. Pitr in Hinduism In Hinduism, Pitr refers to the spirits of one's forefathers or ancestors. They are considered to dwell in the realm of the ancestors, known as Pitrloka, a dimension ruled by Yama, the god of death. The Pitr are honored through rituals, especially during the annual Pitru Paksha, a 15-day period where Hindus perform ceremonies and offer food (Shraddha) to ensure the peace and elevation of their ancest...

Rotak Vrat is observed during the Shukla Paksha of Shravan month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in North India. Someshwar form of Shiva is worshipped during the vrat. Information regarding this vrat is found in the Narad Puran. Those observing the vrat wake up early morning, take bath, and perform puja to Shiva by making clay Shivling. Only vegetarian food is eaten on the day. White colored Prasad is prepared and offered in the evening. The fast is observed for three months on all Mondays during Shukla paksha or waxing phase of moon. It is believed that on successful completion of the vrat, a devotee will be blessed with knowledge, health and wealth.

Salem Kottai Perumal is located at Kottai in Salem in Tamil Nadu. This is ancient shrine and the temple is famous as Kottai Perumal Kovil. Legend has it that Goddess Lakshmi took birth here as the daughter of Bhrigu Rishi and Lord Vishnu appeared here as Alagirinathar and married her. Story of Salem Kottai Perumal Legend has it that Goddess Lakshmi who witnessed the incident of Sage Bhrigu kicking the chest of Vishnu could not tolerate the behavior of Sage Bhrigu and she was even more annoyed with Vishnu for letting the sage go scot free. Goddess Lakshmi left for earth. Sage Bhrigu realized his mistake and wanted to make amends. He came to earth and on advice of Sage Vaiganasa performed intense austerities at Salem. Goddess Lakshmi then appeared here in the form of a baby girl. Sage Bhrigu realized that the baby was Mahalakshmi. He took good care of the baby girl and in due course of time, she grew up into a beautiful girl. The time had come for the marriage of t...

A Comparison Between Velichappadu in Kerala and Iziqu in Xhosa Mythology The Velichappadu of Kerala and the Iziqu of Xhosa mythology share a deep spiritual connection with their communities, acting as intermediaries between the physical and spiritual worlds. While they belong to distinct cultures—Kerala in India and the Xhosa people of South Africa—they share roles that root them deeply in the religious and social practices of their respective societies. Role and Function in Mythology Velichappadu (Kerala): The Velichappadu, literally translated as "the one who has been given light" or "oracle," serves as a divine intermediary during temple rituals, especially in Bhadrakali worship. This individual is typically possessed by the deity and acts as a conduit, delivering divine messages to the community. The Velichappadu is believed to channel the goddess's energy, often going into a trance state during rituals. Traditionally, they provide guidance on important m...

Nala Damayanti is a romantic tale in the epic Mahabharata. Damayanti was the princesses of Vidarbha. She learns of the handsome and righteous Nala, ruler of Nishada, from a swan sent by Nala. Father of Damayanti, King Bhima announces her Swayamvara – the marriage function in which she will choose her husband among the assembled princes. Nala sets out for the Swayamvara. On his way, Indra, Agni, Varuna and Yama confront him. Each of them wanted to marry Damayanti and urges Nala to ask her to choose one amongst them. Nala obliges but Damayanti rejects the suggestion. The disappointed Devas takes the form of Nala and reaches the Swayamvara venue. However, Damayanti is able to identify the real Nala and choose him. Evil spirits Kali and Dwapara too wished to attend the Swayamvara. But they were late and they felt disappointed. They decided to wreak vengeance on Nala. Kali enters the body of Nala, and makes him play a game of dice with his evil brother Pushkara. Nala ...

Goddess Sri Lakshmi Idol is from the world famous Spanish Company, Lladro, noted for high quality porcelain figurines. Lladro during the past couple of years had released idols or murtis of various Hindu gods. Goddess Sri Lakshmi is part of the series. Sri Lakshmi murti shows the goddess in sitting posture and blessing devotees. She has four arms and she holds lotus in two hands. The price of the murti is Rs 90,000/-. Lladro figurines are noted for its beauty, detailing and no compromise in materials used.

A Comparison Between Hindu God Krishna and Mveleli in Xhosa Mythology Both Krishna in Hinduism and Mveleli in Xhosa mythology stand out as deities or figures that are central to their respective cultures. However, despite being rooted in very different mythological systems, there are interesting parallels, as well as key differences, between Krishna and Mveleli. Below is an expanded analysis, covering various aspects such as mythology, characteristics, modern-day relevance, worship, influence, and their perception in contemporary society. 1. Mythological Background and Stories Krishna (Hinduism) Origins: Krishna is one of the most revered deities in Hinduism, regarded as the eighth avatar of Vishnu, the preserver god in the Hindu trinity (Trimurti). Krishna's story is found in several Hindu texts, including the Mahabharata, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Puranas. Narratives: His life is divided into various stages—childhood, youth, and adulthood—each filled with miraculous deeds, tri...

Shree Sadashiva Rudra Temple at Ujire in Karnataka is a famous Shiva Temple. What makes the temple unique is the offerings made here by devotees. A clay sculpture associated with the wish is offered to the deity before and after wish fulfillment. The clay offerings symbolize the never ending materialistic desires of human beings. For example if a person want to get a job then he/she offers clay sculptures of chair and table, for curing eye ailments sculpture of an eye is offered, for begetting children it is cradle, those wishing a car offer the sculpture of a car etc. One can see a whole lot of different mud sculptures the temple. The sheer number of clay sculptures in the temple gives an indication of the desire fulfillment that had taken place after offering prayers here. The offerings are usually made on Mondays along with a coconut and kilogram of rice. All the offerings are placed in a circular shaped pile near the temple. The shrine is located at Surya and is ar...

A Comparison Between Hindu Moon God Chandra and Qamata in Xhosa Mythology Moon deities are central to many cultures, symbolizing time, fertility, and natural cycles. In Hindu mythology, Chandra is the god of the moon, while in Xhosa mythology, Qamata holds a similar lunar significance. Though the details of their stories and cultural contexts differ greatly, they share certain symbolic roles related to nature, time, and cycles of life. This comparison aims to explore the similarities and differences between these two deities, focusing on their mythology, influence, and relevance in the modern world. 1. Mythological Background Chandra in Hindu Mythology Chandra , often depicted as a beautiful young man with a glowing face, is revered as the god of the moon in Hindu tradition. He rides a chariot pulled by ten white horses, representing his waxing and waning phases. Chandra is linked to time (through the lunar calendar) and fertility, as well as being one of the Navagraha (nine planet...

Someshwar Puja is observed during the Shukla Paksha of Shravan month as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in North India. Someshwar form of Shiva is worshipped during the puja. Information regarding this puja is found in the Narad Puran. Some devotees observe a vrat on the occasion. The puja and vrat is associated with Shiva rescuing moon (Chandra or som) and giving refuge to him in his matted locks. Those observing the vrat wake up early morning, take bath, and perform puja to Shiva by making clay Shivling. Only vegetarian food is eaten on the day. White colored Prasad is prepared and offered in the evening. The fast is observed for three months on all Mondays during Shukla paksha or waxing phase of moon. It is believed that on successful completion of the vrat, a devotee will be blessed with knowledge, health and wealth.

Pancha Kanchukas are the five outer coverings or sheaths of consciousness in Kashmir Shaiva Philosophy. The five Kanchukas are: Kala Vidya Raga Kaala and Niyati. The background on which the pancha kanchukas remain steadily abiding is maya, the deluding aspect of Shiva, who is pure consciousness in essence. When maya is counted under the Kanchukas, the number becomes six – Sat Kanchukas. In the rich tapestry of Kashmir Shaivism, the concept of the Pancha Kanchukas (the five coverings) provides a profound insight into the nature of individual experience and the limitations imposed on pure consciousness. These Kanchukas are metaphysical veils or sheaths that obscure the true, boundless nature of Shiva, who in this context is understood as the pure, undivided consciousness. These coverings transform the infinite potential of consciousness into the limited experience of individual beings. To understand these Kanchukas, we must explore their roles and effects. Here's an ...

I prostrate myself before that Sat Guru, the Brahman Who is Bliss; Who is giver of Supreme Happiness; Who is the Absolute; Who is the form of Knowledge; Who is beyond the Pairs of Opposites; Who is vast like Ether; Who is attainable through assertions like “Tat Tvam Asi,” Who is One, Eternal, Pure and Changeless; Who is the witness of all the states of the Mind, Who transcends Modifications; Who is devoid of the three modes of Prakriti Meaning: Who is Bliss: This supreme entity embodies an unchanging state of perfect joy and peace, beyond the fleeting pleasures and pains of the material world. Brahman is Ananda, the ultimate bliss that pervades all existence. Who is the giver of Supreme Happiness: Not only is Brahman itself the essence of joy, but it also bestows the highest form of happiness on those who realize its nature. This happiness is not dependent on external circumstances but arises from the deepest understanding and union with the divine. Who is the...

Story of origin of cure for snake bite in Hindu tradition is found in the Adi Parva (Chapter 20) of Mahabharata. Lord Brahma taught Sage Kashyapa the cure of snake poison. Nagas or snakes were born to Kadru, one of the wives of Sage Kashyapa. Once, Kadru asked her naga children to hand down like hair from the tail of Uchaishravas, the horse of Indra. So that she could win the bet, she had with Vinita, another wife of Sage Kashyapa. Some of the nagas refused to do so. Kadru became angry and cursed them that they would be burnt alive at snake sacrifice of Janamejaya. After the curse, the snakes became dangerously venomous. Other living beings faced innumerable problems due to this imbalance in nature. To overcome the problem, Brahma taught Sage Kashyapa the art of curing snake bite to protect other creatures that might be bitten by the snakes.

Rajarani Temple is a unique 11 th century shrine at Bhubaneswar in Orissa. There is no murti (idol) in the temple. It is situated midway between the famous Lingaraj Temple and the Brahmeshwar Temple. The temple is famous for its sculpted figures and the successive tiers of projections rising to form its 18 meter tower. The term Rajarani is derived from the very fine grained yellowish sandstone, called ‘Rajarania’ in common parlance. The temple shows strong Shaiva association. The temple contains scenes of linga worship and Shiva’s marriage with goddess Parvati. There are Shaiva doorkeepers too in the shrine. A major attraction of this temple is the carvings of the eight dikpalas (temple guards). The structure of the temple comprises of porch, side-niches, dikpalas, navgraha slabs and plenty of miniature spires. There are also erotic sculptures. Some scholars are of the view that the shrine is built on a Sri Chakra of a Manjusri architectural style and the very temp...

 Hinduism, one of the oldest religions in the world, and Zulu mythology, a traditional belief system of the Zulu people of Southern Africa, both encompass rich spiritual traditions. Despite their differences in geography and culture, both systems offer valuable insights into human spirituality, cosmology, and community practices. This comparison will explore the key differences and similarities, modern-day relevance, forms of worship and prayers, influence in everyday life, lesser-known facts, views of the modern generation, and the future of Zulu mythology compared to Hinduism. Key Differences and Similarities 1. Origins and Historical Background Hinduism : Hinduism is believed to have originated in the Indus Valley (modern-day India and Pakistan) around 1500 BCE, evolving from the Vedic religion. It has a complex and highly organized system of scriptures, rituals, gods, and philosophical schools. Hinduism is diverse, with beliefs ranging from monotheism to polytheism and atheism....

Kavar Mela is observed in the Shravan Month (July – August) in Uttarakhand State in India . The Kavar Mela 2025 at Haridwar is from July 11. Shiva devotees carry holy water from the Gangotri glacier and take it to the Shiva temple in Garhmukteshwar or Neelkanth. Devout Hindus who carry the holy Ganga Water to the Shiva Temple is known as Kavar. In 2025, Shravan month in North India begins on July 11 and ends on August 9. Some Kavars also carry the holy water from the Ganges River to Shiva temple in their respective village. They are popularly known as Kanwaris and they travel from their homes in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and other places in North India to Haridwar, Rishikesh, Gaumukh and to the origin of River Ganga in Uttarakhand. The water is carried in pot or bottle and is tied on the two ends of a bamboo pole and is never kept on the ground. It must be noted that thousands of people travel in the Shravan month to collect Ganga Water...

Kanthadeshwar 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 Kanthadeshwar form of Shiva will have long life. The temple dedicated to Kanthadeshwar Mahadev is located near Siddhanath in Ujjain. This form of Shiva is associated with Rishi Pandav and his son Harshvardhan. Kanthadeshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84 Shiva Temples in Ujjain and it is the 34th temple visited during the parikarama of Shivalayas here. Story of Kanthadeshwar Mahadev form of Shiva in Ujjain There lived a Rishi named Pandav. He performed intense austerities and secured the boon from Shiva that he will have an intelligent and dutiful child. In due course of time, Rishi Pandav had a son named Harshvardhan. During the yajno pavit ceremony of the son, the other Rishis present did not bless him with long life as the child was destined to die soon. Rishi Pan...

The Parasara Gita is a significant but lesser-known text attributed to Sage Parasara , the father of Sage Veda Vyasa , who is credited with composing the Mahabharata and compiling the Vedas. This ancient scripture forms a part of the larger body of literature known as the Puranas , particularly found within the Vishnu Purana . The Parasara Gita provides deep insights into the essence of dharma (righteousness) and its role as a pathway to moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). Core Themes and Teachings Dharma as the Path to Moksha : The Parasara Gita emphasizes that adherence to dharma is essential for achieving moksha. Dharma here is not just about ritualistic duties but encompasses the ethical and moral principles that guide one’s life. It suggests that by following dharma, individuals align themselves with the cosmic order, which paves the way to spiritual liberation. Purification of the Mind : According to the Parasara Gita, a key prerequisite for practicing dhar...

 In Hinduism, when someone is ignoring or avoiding you, the situation can be seen from both a spiritual and practical perspective. Hindu teachings emphasize self-reflection, emotional resilience, and a deep connection with the divine to find peace and strength during such challenging times. Here’s a comprehensive guide to overcoming the situation when someone is ignoring you, incorporating practical day-to-day solutions, relevant mantras, stories, quotes from scriptures, and worship practices to specific deities. 1. Spiritual Reflection and Acceptance Hinduism encourages individuals to reflect on their actions, thoughts, and emotions. If someone is ignoring you, rather than immediately reacting or feeling hurt, take time to self-reflect. This is an opportunity to examine the situation from multiple angles: Have I unintentionally hurt or offended this person? Is this relationship important for my growth and well-being? Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 2, Verse 47) teaches: "You have a right...

Shravan month (July – August) is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is the fifth month in the traditional Hindi Hindu calendar followed in North India . Also known as Sawan Mahina, devout Hindus travel to Ganga River from their homes to collect holy Gangajal (water from Ganga ) and bathe the Shivling in their homes and villages with the water. People who travel to collect the Gangajal are known as Kanwaris and journey is known as Kanwar Yatra . Mondays (Somwar) in Shravan month is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. People observe different types of Vrat on the day. The month is of great significance at the Deoghar Baba Baidyanath Dham in Jharkhand. Special pujas using Gangajal brought by devotees is performed in the temple in Sawan month. Mangala Gowri Puja is observed on the Tuesdays in Shravan month. The Masa Shivratri (Monthly Shivratri) in Shravan month is considered highly auspicious and is marked by special pujas and rituals.

Veera Anjaneya Swami Temple located at Alwarpet in Chennai in Tamil Nadu is a popular shrine dedicated to Hanuman. The shrine is popularly known as Luz Anjaneya Temple and is one of the oldest Hanuman Temples in Chennai. Offering Vada Malai on New Years’ day (January 1) is an important ritual here. It is believed that Shettys who ran away from Mysore to escape Muslim persecution established the Alwarpet Hanuman Temple around 350 years ago. The murti of Hanuman faces west and is depicted as walking towards southern direction. His eyes are adorned with earrings. The two-armed murti holds mace in the left hand and the right hand is in Abhaya Mudra. The eyes of the murti have a bright color. He wears armlets known as keuura, bangles known as kankana and anklet known as Thandai. The long tail of the murti is raised above the head and is pointing towards South. The sanctum sanctorum also has an utsava murti or procession idol of Hanuman. A Panchaloha Venugopla Swamy too is found i...

Worshipping Ucchista Ganapati, a tantric form of Lord Ganesha, is a powerful spiritual practice in Hinduism that requires both devotion and proper rituals. Ucchista Ganapati represents the power of unclean or leftover things, but this does not mean impurity in the ordinary sense. His worship is believed to bring spiritual purification, fulfillment of desires, and protection from obstacles. This guide will walk you through a comprehensive method for worshipping Ucchista Ganapati while emphasizing eco-friendly and traditional practices. 1. Preparation and Cleanliness Before beginning the puja, it is essential to purify both the body and the environment: Take a bath and wear clean clothes (preferably in the morning or during auspicious hours). Clean the puja area thoroughly. Use organic and natural cleaning agents, such as cow dung or mud to mop the floor, which are eco-friendly and traditional. Clean your mind by meditating for a few minutes and focusing on Lord Ganesha. Prepare a simple...