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Showing posts from August 8, 2016


Pattaneshwar Mahadev in Ujjain – Story of Pattaneshwar Form of Shiva – 32nd Shiva Temple in Ujjain

Pattaneshwar 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 Pattaneshwar will be able to enjoy worldly pleasures. The temple dedicated to Pattaneshwar Mahadev is located at Khilchipur in Ujjain. This form of Shiva is associated with Sage Narada explaining the glory of Mahakaal Vana or Ujjain. Pattaneshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84 Shiva Temples in Ujjain and it is the 32nd temple visited during the parikarama of Shivalayas here. Story of Pattaneshwar Mahadev form of Shiva in Ujjain One day Goddess Parvati wanted to know why Shiva was interested in residing at Mahkaal Vana (present day Ujjain); when he could comfortably reside in Kailash or Heaven. When this conversation was taking place, sage Narada reached there. Shiva then asked Sage Narada that in the three worlds where did he find supreme happiness and peace. Sage Narada told that he found it at Mahaka

Dumar Lena Cave in Ellora with Andhakasuravadha Murti of Shiva

Dumar Lena Cave is one of the most impressive caves in Ellora. It has the famous Andhakasuravadha Murti. The cave has striking similarities to the famous Elephanta Caves. The cave is adorned with huge sculptured panels depicting stories associated with Shiva. The figures are massive and gigantic structures and are typical of Rashtrakuta tradition. The main cave shrine contains a Shivling with main entrance on the north side. It consists of a large hall with transepts on either side. The cave is supported by a number of massive square pillars with cushion capitals that divide the hall into bays. Dumar Lena Cave is approached by a flight of steps, and the shrine, square on plan, is carved in the rear half of the cave. The most striking and awe-inspiring sculpture is that of Andkasura Vadha Murti of Shiva. The murti has eight arms, two of which are lifted up, holding an elephant’s hide as a hood over the head. Another wonderful sculpture is that of Shiva Tandava. Other sc

Who may be called a paramahamsa? – Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Answers

Who may be called a paramahamsa? He, who like a swan, can take the milk from a mixture of milk and water, leaving aside the water. He, who like an ant, can take the sugar from a mixture of sugar and sand, leaving aside the sand. A paramahamsa is always conscious that God alone is real and all else illusory. Only the swan has the power to separate milk from a mixture of milk and water. The swan’s tongue secretes an acid that separates the milk from the mixture. The paramahamsa also possesses such a juice; it is his ecstatic love for God. That separates the Real from the mixture of the Real and the unreal. Through it one becomes aware of God and sees Him. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa