Basant Panchami heralds the arrival of spring season after the harsh winter and it used to be the celebration of love and friendship in Hindu tradition. Basant Panchami to Holi was the season of love – dedicated to lovers. Even today for many Hindu communities, Basant Panchami is an occasion for worshipping the Hindu God of Love, Kamadeva , and his companion Rati along with goddess Saraswati — the deity of knowledge. Basant ritu (spring) finds a mention in renowned Sanskrit poet Kalidasa's romantic play — Abhijnanasakuntalam — and poems like Ritusamhara. Other literary works — like Banabhatta's Kadambari and Harshacharita that were written in the 7th century AD — address the subject of spring as a season of love in an exquisite manner. Sri Krishna is believed to have played Holi during this season - all fun and frolicking of Sri Krishna happened during this period. Professor of Sanskrit at PU Shankarji Jha says, "Spring, which brings vitality and vigour, is undo...

There are trees associated with each 27 nakshatrams or birth stars. Uttaraphalguni Nakshatra also has a particular tree dedicated to it. People born on each nakshatra should worship the particular tree. The tree associated and worshipped by Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra Born People is dye fig or Ficus tinctoria. Hindi name of the Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra Tree is Paker Telugu name is Malayalam name is Ithi Tamil Name is  Kaliatthi Kannada name is Gudumittemara In Marathi it is known as Datir  Bengali name is  Uttaraphalguni Nakshatra born people should plant the dye fig. Water it. They should also protect the tree.

Chandika Devi Temple is a popular Shakti shrine in Uttarakhand. It is located around a kilometer from Bageshwar, a town popular for Shiva temples. The murti of Maa Chandika is carved out of white granite stone. Goddess Chandika is depicted as sitting on a lion. A kind and motherly form of Maa Chandika is worshipped in the temple. She has four hands and two of her hands are in blessing posture. One hand holds a raised weapon and another a pot. The main sanctum sanctorum is conical in shape. Navratri and Durga Puja are the important festivals observed here.

Comprehensive Guide to Worshiping Taruna Ganapati in Hinduism Worshiping Taruna Ganapati is a significant ritual in Hinduism, as it invokes the blessings of a youthful and energetic form of Lord Ganesha. Taruna Ganapati is an embodiment of new beginnings, wisdom, and youthful vigor, making his worship particularly powerful for those seeking fresh starts or growth in any endeavor. Here’s a detailed guide on how to worship Taruna Ganapati with steps for a clean, eco-friendly, and spiritually fulfilling puja: Benefits of Worshiping Taruna Ganapati Success and Prosperity : Worshiping Taruna Ganapati helps in removing obstacles and brings success and prosperity in endeavors. New Beginnings : Ideal for initiating new ventures or starting a new chapter in life. Youthful Energy : His youthful form signifies energy, enthusiasm, and dynamism, which devotees can imbibe in their lives. Intelligence and Wisdom : Taruna Ganapati is worshiped to gain wisdom and clarity of mind. Health and Well-being...

Trivishtapeshwar Mahadev is worshiped in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the 84 forms of Shiva worshiped in Ujjain. Those offering prayers to Trivishtapeshwar Mahadev will attain peace and prosperity. The temple dedicated to Trivishtapeshwar Mahadev is located at in the Mahakaleshwar Temple complex. This form of Shiva is associated with Indra, the king of Devas. Trivishtapeshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84 Shiva Temples in Ujjain and it is the 7th temple visited during the parikrama of Shivalayas here. Story of Trivishtapeshwar Mahadev form of Shiva in Ujjain Once, Sage Narada visited Swarga Loka. Indra and other Devas present there asked Sage Narada about the greatness of Mahkaal Vana. Sage Narada told the Devas that Shiva resided here with his Ganas. The place is filled with Shivlings and people are unable to count the number of Shivling present here. Indra and Devas decided to visit Mahkaal Vana. When t...

There are trees associated with each 27 nakshatrams or birth stars. Magha Nakshatra also has a particular tree dedicated to it. People born on each nakshatra should worship the particular tree. The tree associated and worshipped by Magha Nakshatra Born People is Banyan or Ficus Bengalensis. Hindi name of the Magha Nakshatra Tree is Bargad Telugu name is marri chettu  Malayalam name is Peraal  Tamil Name is aalamaram Kannada name is aalada mara In Marathi it is known as Vada Bengali name is bat Magha Nakshatra born people should plant the Banyan. Water it. They should also protect the tree.

Ma Katyayani Temple at Khagaria is considered a Shaktipeeth. Legend has it that the right arm of Goddess Sati fell here. The best way to reach the shrine is by train. Badal Railway Station is located nearby. The temple is located between the Kosi and Bagmati rivers. The most important festival observed here are  Navratri  and Durga Puja. Monday and Friday are the auspicious dates in a week. Hundreds of earthen pots of different color can be seen in vicinity of the shrine. The pots are offerings made by devotees. Animal sacrifice is no more practiced here. Instead symbolic offering of coconuts are done here. A small temple of Shri Pad is also situated in the temple courtyard.

Simha Ganapati is a fierce form of Lord Ganesha, depicted with a lion's head, symbolizing courage, strength, and the ability to conquer obstacles. He is worshipped for valor, overcoming fears, and removing obstacles from one’s life. The worship of Simha Ganapati follows traditional rituals and practices rooted in Hinduism, and this guide outlines a comprehensive and eco-friendly way to perform the puja. Importance of Simha Ganapati Worship Simha Ganapati represents power, bravery, and protection. Devotees seek his blessings for: Courage in facing challenges and removing fear. Protection from evil forces and adversaries. Success in endeavors, overcoming obstacles in professional and personal life. Spiritual Growth by removing inner hindrances like fear and doubt. Benefits of Worship Protection from enemies and dangers. Inner strength to face adversity. Success and Prosperity by clearing obstacles from your path. Peace and Happiness by balancing the fierceness of Ganapati wit...

There is an interesting story in the Hindu tradition that narrates why crocodiles and chameleons have rough and tough skin. The story is found in the Rig Veda. The story is associated with Apala, a ugly woman and Indra, the king of devas. Apala was not a good looking woman. She had coarse and dry skin. Her husband rejected her due to her ugly skin. She left home and reached a jungle. Here she made a hut and started a life away from the society. One day while searching for fruits and vegetables, she came across a strange plant. She picked up the tender part of the plant and started chewing it. It was the Soma plant. Soma plant was considered highly precious by Devas and Indra, the king of gods, had a special liking for it. The accidental extraction of the Soma juice by Apala caught the attention of Indra. He appeared before her and told her that she had extracted the Soma juice and offered her a boon for not sharing the secret. Apala only had on thing to a...

There are trees associated with each 27 nakshatrams or birth stars. Purvaphalguni Nakshatra also has a particular tree dedicated to it. People born on each nakshatra should worship the particular tree. The tree associated and worshipped by Purva Phalguni Nakshatra Born People is flame of the forest or Butea monosperma. Hindi name of the Purvaphalguni Nakshatra Tree is Palash or Tesu Telugu name is Modugu Malayalam name is Shamata Tamil Name is  Porasum, Parasu Kannada name is Muthuga In Marathi it is known as Palas Bengali name is Polash Purvaphalguni Nakshatra born people should plant the flame of the forest. Water it. They should also protect the tree.

Ekadanta Ganapati is a powerful form of Lord Ganesha, who is known for having a single tusk ("Ekadanta" means "One Tusked"). He symbolizes wisdom, the removal of obstacles, and the focus required to achieve goals. In Hinduism, worshiping Ekadanta Ganapati brings peace, prosperity, and knowledge, as well as helps in overcoming challenges. Below is a detailed guide on how to worship Ekadanta Ganapati, including the required items, cleanliness practices, and steps for a traditional, eco-friendly puja. Importance of Worshiping Ekadanta Ganapati Worshiping Ekadanta Ganapati helps in removing obstacles, focusing the mind, and achieving prosperity and wisdom. His one tusk signifies overcoming dualities such as success and failure, pleasure and pain, and leading a life of balance. Key benefits of worship include: Removal of obstacles in career, health, and personal life. Success in education and business. Protection from negative energies and evil influences. Blessings for ...

Demon Adi was the son of Andhaka. It was Shiva who had put an end to the tyranny of Andhaka by killing the demon. To avenge his father’s death, Adi offered prayers to Brahma. He performed intense austerities and did penance to please Brahma. Finally, Brahma relented and gave him the boon that he will only die if left his present form and took another form. Demon Adi after receiving the boon thought of plans to enter Kailasa, the abode of Shiva. He did not want to fight the Shiva Ganas and alert Shiva about his presence. He also knew that he did not have the power to overcome Virabhadra, the main Shiva Gana. To avoid being sighted, Adi was forced to take the form of snake to slip into Kailasa without the Ganas noticing. Then Adi took the form of Goddess Parvati and went near Shiva. But Shiva immediately realized the demon in disguise and overpowered and killed him. This story is mentioned in the Padma Purana and Matsya Purana.

Sarva Karya Siddhi Kavach is recommended in Hindu astrology for those people who are unable to achieve success despite hard work. It is believed that by wearing Sarva Karya Siddhi Kavach one attains prosperity and removes the bad influences of the Navgrahas. This Kavach is recommended for those people who are having trouble and loss in business and those that are facing problem in finding new jobs. It is also suggested for solving career related issues. Certain Sarva Karya Siddhi Kavach comes along with Sarvajan Vashikaran Kavach (to influence other people successfully), Ashta Lakshmi Kavach (blessings of Goddess Lakshmi), Tantra Raksha Kavach and Shatru Vijaya Kavach (both helps in defeating the activities of enemies). Kavach is worn by those people who believe in astrology. Such people firmly believe that wearing it brings positive results.

There are trees associated with each 27 nakshatrams or birth stars. Ashlesha Nakshatra also has a particular tree dedicated to it. People born on each nakshatra should worship the particular tree. The tree associated and worshipped by Aslesha Nakshatra Born People is Alexandrian Laurel or Calophyllum indophyllum. Hindi name of the Ashlesha Nakshatra Tree is Sultan Champa Telugu name is Punnaga Malayalam name is punna Tamil Name is  Punnai  Kannada name is surhonne In Marathi it is known as Surangi  Bengali name is  Aslesha Nakshatra born people should plant the Alexandrian Laurel . Water it. They should also protect the tree.

Vitthal, or Vittal or Vittala, is a very popular God worshipped in Hinduism. So who is Lord Vitthal? Which God is worshipped as Panduranga Vittala in Hindu religion? Vitthal is the manifestation of Lord Krishna . Vitth or Veetha means brick and Vitthal is one who stands on a brick. Lord Krishna is worshipped as Vitthal. Panduranga, an ardent devotee of Vishnu, was so immersed in taking care of his parents that when Krishna knocked on his doors, he asked the God to wait and gave him a brick to stand on. Krishna was so impressed by Panduranga’s devotion for his parents that he stood on the brick waiting for his devotee. God Vitthal is worshipped along with Goddess Rukmini at the famous Pandarpur Temple in Maharashtra. Read more… Story of Lord Vithal at Pandarpur – Story of PandurangaVittala Ekadasi Food – What food can be eaten during Ekadashi fasting Importance of Ekadasi

 In Hinduism, animals and insects, including flies, are considered an integral part of the cosmic balance. They are viewed as manifestations of life energy and as part of the great interconnected web of existence. While flies are often seen as a nuisance in day-to-day life, Hinduism encourages a deeper reflection on their presence, symbolizing lessons in patience, karma, and non-attachment. 12 Spiritual Benefits of Flies in Hinduism: Symbol of Karma : Flies are a reminder of the law of karma, emphasizing that no action goes unnoticed, and every action bears consequences. Just as flies are constantly active, so too are our karmic actions. Practice of Patience : Flies often test our patience in mundane situations. Learning to deal with flies calmly teaches us to cultivate patience in other areas of life. Sign of Non-Attachment : Flies help remind us to be non-attached to external circumstances. In Hindu philosophy, being overly affected by the external world, like how we react to fli...

After the great Mahabharat war, the Pandavas ruled the kingdom for 36 years. Then they decided to relinquish their kingdom and go on their last journey – Sanyasa and Vanaprastham. The five Pandava brothers – Yudhishtira , Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva –and their wife Draupadi left for the Himalayas . They were followed by a Dog. They started climbing the Himalayan mountains and soon one by one starting with Draupadi they fell down and fainted and died. Now only Yudhishtira, the eldest of Pandavas, was left and keeping him company was the dog. Without looking back the two continued their journey. Then one day suddenly Indra appeared before Yudhishtira in his chariot. Indra wanted to take Yudhishtira to heaven in the human form as he was the most pious among Pandavas and he was the one who had never strayed from the path of Dharma. Yudhishtira refuses to enter the chariot without his brothers and Draupadi. Indra assures him that he will meet with them in heav...

There are trees associated with each 27 nakshatrams or birth stars. Pushya Nakshatra also has a particular tree dedicated to it. People born on each nakshatra should worship the particular tree. The tree associated and worshipped by Pushya Nakshatra Born People is Pipal or Ficus Religiosa. Hindi name of the Pushya Nakshatra Tree is Pipal Telugu name is Bodhi-drumamu Malayalam name is Arayal Tamil Name is Aracu Kannada name is Arali In Marathi it is known as Pimpal Bengali name is Asbattha Pushya Nakshatra born people should plant the Bamboo. Water it. They should also protect the tree.

Kodanda Rama is a popular name of Bhagavan Sri Ram in South India. Temples dedicated to Hindu God Kodandarama are found in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The Rama with bow is referred to as Kodanda Rama. Kodanda Rama is always represented as a royal personage of bewitching beauty, well developed body, having broad eyes, long arms, curly tresses, and auspicious marks. When represented as the consecrated deity within a temple, Rama is generally seen standing with queen Sita on the left and faithful brother Lakshmana on the right. Ram and Lakshman hold bows and arrows. The bow is called Kodanda. Related Story of the Birth of Sri Rama

Located on the banks of Renuka River, Charchika Temple at Banki is an important Shakti shrine in the region. The temple is around 53 km from Cuttack in Odisha. Goddess Charchika is a manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti. Charchika Temple is one of the eight important Shakti shrines in Odisha. Goddess Chamunda is known as Charchika in this part of Odisha. The murti worshipped in the shrine is that of the fierce form of Chamunda. She has eight arms. She is seated on a prostrate human body and wearing a garland of human skulls. She displays khadga, shula, katari and varadamudra in her four right hands whereas the four left hands represent severed head, blood-cup, damru and leaving a finger of the remaining hand soaked in blood. The celings, walls and pillars of the temple are noted for its carvings from stories in the Puranas and motifs. The most important festivals observed here are Durga Puja and Kumar Purnima.

In Hinduism, the use of nature and its elements plays a significant role in spiritual practices. Flowers are considered pure and divine and are often used in rituals, prayers, and offerings to deities. Flower essences, which are liquid extracts made from the energy imprint of flowers, have been used for centuries for their subtle healing and transformative properties. These essences are thought to carry the vibrational qualities of the flowers they come from, thus influencing our mental, physical, and spiritual states. 12 Spiritual Benefits of Flower Essences: Enhancing Meditation and Spiritual Practices : Flower essences help deepen meditation by calming the mind and helping us connect to higher states of consciousness. Using them before prayer or meditation helps to open channels for divine energy. Balancing the Chakras : Flower essences aid in balancing and cleansing the seven chakras, which are the energy centers in the body. For instance, lotus essence is known for opening the cro...

Story of origin of Krishna River is associated with a curse by Goddess Saraswati. Legend has it that Brahma was ready to perform a yajna. Vishnu and Shiva arrived to witness the yajna. But Brahma could not start the yajna as his wife Saraswati did not turn up. As the auspicious time was passing over, at the instance of Vishnu, Brahma started the yajna with his second wife Gayatri. But soon Goddess Saraswati arrived at the yajna and got angry for not waiting for her. She cursed the gods present there to take the form of rivers. Thus Lord Vishnu was cursed by Goddess Saraswati to take the form of Krishna River. Krishna River flows through Srisailam, Guntur and Krishna districts of Andhra Pradesh.

There are trees associated with each 27 nakshatrams or birth stars. Punarvasu Nakshatra also has a particular tree dedicated to it. People born on each nakshatra should worship the particular tree. The tree associated and worshipped by Punarvasu Nakshatra Born People is Bamboo. Hindi name of the Punarvasu Nakshatra Tree is baans Telugu name is bongu-veduru Malayalam name is Mula Tamil Name is kulay-munkil Kannada name is bidiru In Marathi it is known as Bamboo Bengali name is baansha Punarvasu Nakshatra born people should plant the Bamboo. Water it. They should also protect the tree.

Bala Sundari Temple is dedicated to Goddess Shakti. The shrine is located at Deoband in Uttar Pradesh and is around 87 km from Saharanpur. Bala Sundari is a child form of Goddess Durga. The small but beautifully maintained shrine is noted for its vibrant colors and dome. The shrine is a Tantric temple. Various prayers and pujas associated with Shakti worship are performed here. The most important festival observed here is the  Navratri  and Durga Puja.

 In Hinduism, flour, particularly rice flour, wheat flour, and other grain powders, holds significant spiritual importance. Its use spans from food offerings to divine rituals, symbolic art, and even traditional healing practices. Flour is not just a basic cooking ingredient; it carries deep spiritual connotations and offers several benefits for physical, mental, and social well-being. Below is an expanded discussion on the spiritual benefits of flour, practical applications, and other relevant information. 12 Spiritual Benefits of Flour in Hinduism Purity and Symbolism of Sattva Guna (Purity) Flour, especially rice and wheat flour, is considered a pure substance in Hinduism. In many rituals, purity is of paramount importance, and flour symbolizes the sattva guna (the quality of purity, harmony, and goodness). Practical Use : Use rice flour to create rangoli patterns in front of your home as a way to attract positive energy and create an auspicious atmosphere. Offering to Deities F...

Athalanallur Temple, popularly known as Gajendra Varadan Temple, is located at Athalanallur village near Veeravanallur (near Ambasamudram) in Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu. The temple is associated with the famous Gajendra Moksha incident mentioned in Hindu puranas. The shrine is also known as Arulmigu Gajendravaradaswamy Temple and Sri Bhoomi Nila Samedha Aadhimoola Perumal Temple. The sanctum sanctorum has the murti of Srihari Vishnu who is worshipped here as Aadi Moolam. He has four arms and is in standing posture. His two consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi are found in standing posture on either side. Murtis of Sage Markandeya and Sage Bhrigu are also found in the main temple. The processional murti of Gajendra Varadan along with his two consorts is also found in the main sanctum sanctorum. Sculptures of two huge dwaraplakas are found at the entrance of the Arda Mandapa. The shrine of Garuda, flag staff and bali peetha faces the main sanctum sanctorum. Chakrathalwar ...

There are trees associated with each 27 nakshatrams or birth stars. Ardra Nakshatra also has a particular tree dedicated to it. People born on each nakshatra should worship the particular tree. The tree associated and worshipped by Ardra Nakshatra Born People is Coromandel Ebony or East Indian Ebony or Diospyros melanoxylon. Hindi name of the Ardra Nakshatra Tree is Abnus or Tendu or Kendu Telugu name is Tuniki Malayalam name is Kari Tamil Name is Karai Kannada name is Abanasi In Marathi it is known as Tendu. Bengali name is Kendu  Ardra Nakshatra born people should plant the East Indian Ebony tree. Water it. They should also protect the tree.

Baigarh Ganesh Temple is located at Baigarh near Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh. It is a kilometer off the Rajendragam – Amarkantak road. A big murti of Ganesha blessing devotees is the main attraction of Baigarh Ganesh Temple. The murti of Ganesha is lavishly decorated and attracts scores of devotees. The temple is located amidst lush green forest. Springs can be found near the shrine. A temple believed to have been built by the Pandavas is located behind the shrine. Most important festival observed here is the Ganesh Chaturthi.

In Hinduism, flaxseed is considered to hold spiritual significance, owing to its connection with purity, health, and holistic well-being. While flaxseed is well-known for its physical health benefits, it also has spiritual importance in Hindu rituals, Ayurveda, and lifestyle practices. Here's an expanded explanation of the spiritual benefits of flaxseed in Hinduism, along with its impact on physical, mental, and social well-being: 1. Purification of Body and Soul Spiritual Aspect: Flaxseed is associated with the purification of both body and soul. By consuming flaxseed, one purifies their digestive system, which in turn is believed to promote spiritual cleanliness in Hinduism. Practical Solution: Regularly consuming flaxseed can help detoxify the body, which is a crucial step before engaging in meditation, prayer, or spiritual practices. 2. Support for Meditation and Mental Clarity Spiritual Aspect: In Hinduism, a clear mind is essential for deep meditation and spiritual growth...