Who were the brothers of Ravana in the epic Ramayana? Ravana had two brothers in the Ramayan. They were both powerful. One brother always slept but was known for his immense strength. Another brother was a devotee of Vishnu. The two brothers of Ravana are: Kumbhakarna and Vibhishana . Kumbhakarna was killed in the battle. After Ravana’s death, Vibhishana became the king of Lanka. Related Kumbhakarna– Story of Kumbakarna in the Ramayana

Symbolism plays an important role in Hindu religion. We find Hindu gods and goddesses having several head sometimes two, three, four or five. Multiplicity of heads denotes presence of their concurrent abilities. Three heads symbolizes presence of three gunas – sattva, rajas and tamas It also symbolizes shaktis or powers like iccha (will), jnana (consciousness) and kriya (action). Four heads symbolizes the four Vedas. It also symbolically indicates that the deity guards four directions. Five heads symbolizes the panchabhootas or the five elements. Five heads also symbolizes creation, expansion, withdrawal, concealing and preservation until the next cycle of creation. It must be also noted that with the development of society new sects and cults appeared. Such cults and sects were blind followers. To show that their deity is more powerful, they started adding extra heads. Multiple heads are also an attempt to c...

In Hindu religion, each day of a week is dedicated to a particular God. So, which God is worshipped on Wednesday? The is dedicated to planet Mercury (Budh). It is believed highly meritorious to worship Lord Vittal , an incarnation of Krishna, on Wednesday. Vittal Rukmini Devi in Pandarpur Temple Hindu God Budh is one among the  Navgrahas  and is an important graha in the Hindu Vedic Astrology. Budha, or Mercury, is associated with wisdom and is believed to provide devotees with the correct discretionary power. You can offer worship in a temple with Navgrahas to get the blessings of Budha. Lord Vittal is widely worshipped in Maharashtra and Karnataka. You may also like to read Budhvar Vrat Katha How to observe Wednesday fasting or Budhvar Vrat?

Panpoli Murugan Temple is located at Panpoli Village near Tenkasi in Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu. The shrine nestles atop a hill and one has to climb 625 steps to reach the shrine. Legend has it that in the beginning only Vel – the lance of Muruga was worshipped in the temple. The temple priest once had a dream. In the dream, Muruga asked him to retrieve a Muruga murti (idol) from a nearby anthill and install it in the temple. The priest informed the king about this dream. The murti was discovered and installed in the temple. The hill atop which the shrine is located is also known as Trikoodamalai. One climbs the hill after offering prayers to Vallabha Vinayaka murti at the foothill. Two padukas also can be seen here. As one climb the 625 steps one can see another shrine of Vinayaka and one dedicated to Idumban. The sacred spring near the temple atop the hill is known as Ashta Padmakulam (also known as Poonjunai. Murits of Sapta Kannikas can be seen near the sp...

Mental fatigue is a condition where a person feels emotionally drained, mentally exhausted, and overwhelmed. Hinduism offers many spiritual and practical solutions to rejuvenate the mind and strengthen mental resilience. Here’s an expanded view with specific mantras , rituals , stories , and day-to-day practices rooted in Hindu teachings to overcome mental fatigue. 1. Mantras for Overcoming Mental Fatigue Mantras are sound vibrations believed to invoke divine energies and help center the mind. Here are a few powerful ones: a. Gayatri Mantra The Gayatri Mantra is one of the most revered and powerful mantras in Hinduism. It is a prayer for spiritual awakening and mental clarity. Mantra: "ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः, तत्सवितुर्वरेण्यम् भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि, धियो यो नः प्रचोदयात्॥" Meaning: "We meditate on the glory of the Creator, who has created the Universe, who is worthy of worship, who is the embodiment of knowledge and light. May He illuminate our minds." Reciting this mant...

This article explores many Hinduism facts that is conveniently overlooked by many popular websites and articles. They don’t tell you the real facts – they are more interested in the number of Hindus (third largest religion); they are interested in the countries where Hinduism is followed (India, Nepal, Fiji, Guyana..) and the caste system. Oldest Living Religion Hinduism is the oldest living religion in the world. It has no name – a name that comes closest to defining the religion is Sanatana Dharma. Hindu religion is perhaps the only evolving religion in the world. The name Hinduism was coined by the British during the 1800s. …who really knows? Who will here proclaim it? Whence was it produced? Whence is this creation? The gods came afterwards, with the creation of this universe. Who then knows when it has arisen? When this creation has arise – perhaps it formed itself, or perhaps it did not – the one who looks down on it, in the highest heaven, only he knows – or perhaps...

Dundeshwar Mahadev is worshiped in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the 84 forms of Shiva worshiped in Ujjain. Those offering prayers to Dundeshwar Mahadev will get all their sins washed and they will also attain heaven. The temple dedicated to Dundeshwar Mahadev is located at Ram Siddhi (Ramghat) on the banks of Shipra River. This form of Shiva is associated with Shiva Gana Dundu. Dundeshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84 Shiva Temples in Ujjain and it is the 3rd temple visited during the parikrama of Shivalayas here. Story of Dundeshwar Mahadev form of Shiva in Ujjain One day Shiva Gana Dundu visited heaven. Here he happened to see Apsara Rambha. He got playful and threw flowers on her. Indira, the king of heaven, happened to witness this and cursed him to be born on earth. After his birth on earth, Dundu performed intense austerities in the Mahendra Mountain. One day he heard a voice from the sky. It directed ...

The Hindu Kannada calendar and the Hindu Tamil calendar, while both rooted in the broader framework of the Hindu lunisolar calendar system, exhibit notable differences in their regional adaptations and cultural observances. Here are some key differences between the two: 1. Regional Basis and Language Kannada Calendar : Predominantly used in the Karnataka region and is written in the Kannada language. Tamil Calendar : Predominantly used in the Tamil Nadu region and is written in the Tamil language. 2. Month Names Kannada Calendar : The month names are typically derived from Sanskrit and are similar to those used in other Hindu calendars, such as Chaitra, Vaishakha, etc. Tamil Calendar : The month names are distinctly Tamil and are Chithirai, Vaikasi, Aani, Aadi, Avani, Purattasi, Aippasi, Karthigai, Margazhi, Thai, Masi, and Panguni. 3. New Year Celebrations Kannada Calendar : Ugadi (Yugadi) marks the New Year, usually celebrated in March or April. Tamil Calendar : Puthandu or Tamil Ne...

Samudra Yoga is a position indicated by the combination of certain planets in a horoscope in Hindu astrology. A person having Samudra Yoga will be rich, powerful and famous. In a horoscope, if all the seven planets are positioned in the kendra houses with difference of one rashi such a combination constitutes Samudra Yoga. In the yoga, the seven planets would be in the houses 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12. Rahu and Ketu are avoided in calculating Samudra Yoga. If all the natural benefices are in the Kendra houses (1 st , 4 th , 7 th and 10 th ) with two planets, conducive of each other, being in the lagna, this combination turns into Samdura Yoga. The presence of the yoga promises over-lordship.

Overcoming Midlife Crisis: Hinduism's Solutions and Practical Approaches A midlife crisis often brings questions about purpose, fulfillment, and identity. In Hinduism, which offers timeless wisdom through its scriptures, rituals, and teachings, there are many tools to help navigate this phase. Hindu philosophy emphasizes self-awareness, self-discipline, and devotion, which are particularly helpful during times of personal reflection. Below are practical, spiritual, and philosophical approaches from Hindu teachings to help overcome a midlife crisis. 1. Understanding Midlife Crisis through Hindu Philosophy In Hinduism, life is traditionally divided into four stages (Ashramas): Brahmacharya (student stage) Grihastha (householder stage) Vanaprastha (retirement) Sannyasa (renunciation) A midlife crisis often emerges during the Grihastha stage when individuals may feel burdened by responsibilities, lost in the routine of worldly duties, or face existential questions. Hinduism teaches...

Elephant is worshipped along with Goddess Lakshmi in many regions and the goddess is also known as Gaja Lakshmi. Two white elephants are also depicted along with the image of Goddess Lakshmi and the animal is also believed to be the Vahana (vehicle) of the Goddess. The popular belief is that worshipping Gaja or elephant will help in attainment of wealth and prosperity. There is an interesting story which connects the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and elephant. Long ago a king had two wives. The first wife had many children and the second wife had only a single son. The first wife and her children once made a huge white elephant of clay and worshiped it along with Goddess Lakshmi. The second wife was unable to perform the worship as she did not want her son to make a huge clay idol of the elephant all alone. But the son noticed that his mother was sad and when he found out the reason for her sadness, he decided to alleviate it. The son prayed to Lord Indra and asked for...

The Hindu calendar is not a single, unified system but a collection of regional calendars that vary across India. Two prominent examples are the Hindu North Indian Calendar and the Hindu Tamil Calendar. Here are the key differences between these two calendars: 1. Starting Points (Epochs) Hindu North Indian Calendar : Typically, it follows the Vikram Samvat or the Shaka Samvat. The Vikram Samvat begins in 57 BCE, while the Shaka Samvat starts in 78 CE. Hindu Tamil Calendar : Follows the Tamil calendar system which begins in 78 CE (similar to the Shaka Samvat but used in a different regional context). 2. Months Hindu North Indian Calendar : The months are generally based on the lunar cycle and named as follows: Chaitra, Vaishakha, Jyeshtha, Ashadha, Shravana, Bhadrapada, Ashwin, Kartik, Margashirsha, Pausha, Magha, and Phalguna. Hindu Tamil Calendar : The months are named differently and are based on solar months: Chithirai, Vaikasi, Aani, Aadi, Avani, Purattasi, Aippasi, Karthigai, Mar...

The Hindu Gujarati Calendar and the Hindu Tamil Calendar are both traditional calendars used in different regions of India. While they share some similarities due to their basis in Hindu astronomy and rituals, there are significant differences between them. Here are the key differences: 1. Geographical and Cultural Context: Gujarati Calendar: Predominantly used in the state of Gujarat and among the Gujarati-speaking community. Tamil Calendar: Primarily used in the state of Tamil Nadu and among Tamil-speaking people. 2. New Year’s Day: Gujarati Calendar: The Gujarati New Year (Bestu Varas) is celebrated on the day after Diwali, which falls on the first day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon period) in the month of Kartik. Tamil Calendar: The Tamil New Year (Puthandu) is celebrated on April 14th (or occasionally April 13th) each year, coinciding with the first day of the Tamil month Chithirai. 3. Months and Their Names: Gujarati Calendar: Follows the Vikram Samvat era. Months includ...

 In Hinduism, memory is considered not only a cognitive function but also a deeper spiritual capacity linked to wisdom, awareness, and one's connection with the divine. Overcoming memory loss or boosting memory can be approached both spiritually and practically, drawing upon the teachings and tools within Hindu traditions. Here’s an expanded view with practical approaches, mantras, stories, and guidance based on the worship of deities like Goddess Saraswati , Dhanvantari , Ashwini Kumaras , Shiva , Chandra , Goddess Durga , Hanuman , and Ganesha . 1. Spiritual Significance of Memory in Hinduism Memory is linked to both medha shakti (intelligence) and smriti (remembrance) in the scriptures. It connects the individual to past experiences and spiritual knowledge. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna states, “I am the power of memory, knowledge, and free will in all beings" (Bhagavad Gita 15:15), emphasizing memory as a divine attribute that brings wisdom and self-awareness. 2. Ma...

Nanda Vrata is dedicated to Shiva and it is believed that Goddess Sati observed this vrat to get Shiva as her husband. It is observed during Phalgun Shukla Paksha Saptami as per some scholars. In 2026, it is on February 24. Some scholars are of the view that the Vrat is also observed during Ashwin Shukla Paksha Ashtami (eighth day during the waxing phase of moon in Ashwin month). Detail procedure on how to observe the Nanda Vrat is given below. It is said that the Vrat can be observed on the Shukla Paksha Saptami – seventh day during the waxing phase of moon in any Hindu month – especially in Phalgun, Chaitra, Ashada and Shravan. The Vrat is observed for getting good husband or wife. It is exclusively performed to get the desired person as husband or wife or the person whom you love. Goddess Sati performed it to get Shiva as Her husband as She only wanted Him as Her husband. The procedure of Nanda Vrat is simple… It involves fasting from sunrise to next day morning su...

Overcoming Menopause – Hinduism Solutions and Practical Approaches Menopause is a natural transition in a woman’s life, marking the end of menstruation and the reproductive phase. Though it can bring physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges, Hinduism offers several ways to find comfort, balance, and spiritual growth during this phase. Solutions involve holistic approaches that embrace physical health, emotional well-being, and spiritual elevation through mantras, stories, worship of goddesses, and practical day-to-day methods. Spiritual Approach to Menopause in Hinduism Hinduism regards menopause as a powerful transformative period where women can reconnect with their inner strength and spiritual identity. The cessation of menstruation is seen not just as an end but as the beginning of a phase of wisdom and deeper connection with the self and the Divine Mother. The following practices can be highly beneficial: 1. Worship of Goddesses and Their Symbolism In Hindu tradition, goddess...

Shri Mankameshwar Mandir in Agra is dedicated to Lord Shiva. A unique feature of the temple is that five pujas are offered instead of the regular four pujas and the fifth Shivratri night puja is Holi. Lord Shiva plays with colors. Shri Mankameshwar Temple is located at Mantola, Agra, Uttar  Pradesh. Shivratri in the temple is famous for – Abhishek throughout night Shringar Shiva appears in the form of groom. Marriage festival of Shiva. The five pujas dedicated to Shiva here are: The first puja is in which Shiva comes out as the groom. In second puja, Shiva the groom appears at the doorsteps of Himavan, father of Goddess Parvati. Third Puja – Shiva show his ferocious form to Mina , mother of Goddess Parvati. Fourth puja – Shiva appears as the handsome groom with ornaments made of diamonds. Fifth Puja – Shiva returns after marrying Goddess Parvati. Devotees celebrate it like holi by playing with colors. It is believed that having darshan of Shiva ...

Kal Bhairav is the fierce manifestation of Shiva. Below is the Kal Bhairav Mantra in Hindi. It is believed that those who follow Dharma and have unwavering devotion will have their wishes fulfilled immediately by Kal Bhairav . The best day to chant the mantra is Sunday. It should be chanted 108 times. Kal Bhairav Mantra in Hindi ॥ऊं भ्रं काल भैरवाय फ़ट॥ ।। ॐ हं षं नं गं कं सं खं महाकाल भैरवाय नम : ।। || ॐ भयहरणं च भैरव : || शत्रु बाधा निवारण हेतु - ऊं ह्रीं बटुकाय आपदुद्धारणाय कुरूकुरू बटुकाय ह्रीं। Related How to do Kal Bhairav Ashtami Puja? 

Lightning strikes on the Shivling worshipped at the Bijli Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva at Kullu in Himachal Pradesh, shattering it into pieces. The priest of the temple then applies freshly collected butter from the village with reverence and sincerity and sticks the pieces of Shivling together. The butter loses its melting point and the stone becomes one. Bijli Mahadev Temple, at an altitude of 2460 meter, is located around 14 Km to the south-east of Kullu and a three Km trek from Mansari village. It is said that the Shivling worshipped at Bijli Mahadev Mandir gets damaged due to lightning every year in Shravan month – the temple priests then gathers the broken pieces and puts them together using butter. Therefore the name Bijli Mahadev Temple – Bijli means lightning. A local legend has it that the Shivling at the temple captures the powerful energies from the atmosphere and keeps the world safe. Every year lightening breaks the Shi...

Tarani Prasad Mishra made a sand sculpture of Lord Shiva and Shivling at Vamsadhara riverbank during Shivratri. The place is near to Srimukhalingam, Jalumuru mandal of Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh. Related You can find Tarani Prasad's Nagula Chavithi sand sculpture here

The distinctive sign through which it is possible to recognize the nature of someone is called a Linga (Shivling) (Shiva Purana 1.16.106) Shiva is signless (sexless), without color, taste, or smell, beyond word and touch, without quality, changeless, motionless. (Linga Purana 1.3.2-3) Basic nature is thus called the linga. The owner of the linga is supreme divinity. (Linga Purana 1.17.5) It is not the Linga itself which is worshipped but the owner of the linga, the Progenitor, the Purusha. The linga leads to the Supreme Man, to Shiva, whose symbol it is. Shiva's Transcendence and Formlessness Original Text: "Shiva is signless (sexless), without color, taste, or smell, beyond word and touch, without quality, changeless, motionless. (Linga Purana 1.3.2-3)" Expanded Interpretation: Signless (Sexless): Shiva transcends all dualities and distinctions, including gender. This signifies the ultimate non-dual nature of Shiva, who embodies both masculine and feminine ...

Seven earth-size exoplanets were discovered by NASA scientists . As per scientists, some or all of which could harbor water and possibly life. Now there is a concept of Saptarishis in Hinduism – they are seven divine beings who reside in the sky. In Hindu religion, they are the mind born sons of Brahma and creation is carried out through them. Those are not seven earth like planets but far superior than earth. The cycle of creation and destruction goes on, and at each new beginning the saptrarishis appear from the Supreme Truth (Vishnu or Shiva or Devi) to continue the process of creation. If you are a follower of Hinduism, or a person having keen interest in the religion, you might be aware that Hinduism strongly believes that there are far more superior beings outside in the universe than the human beings are. Scriptures of Hinduism are full of hints of inferior and superior beings out in the universe. There are millions and millions of life forms out there in t...

Certain Hindu communities offer Chana Dal and Jaggery to Lord Vishnu. It is considered highly meritorious to make the offering. It is believed that offering Chana Dal and Jaggery helps in overcoming all forms of financial difficulties. It also helps in overcoming other difficulties associated with property, studies and relationship. Chana Dal is slight yellow in color and so is jaggery in some regions. The popular belief is that making yellow color offerings to Lord Vishnu helps in desire fulfillment. 

Number of Wicks While Lighting Ghee Lamp in Hindu Puja various from region to region. There are numerous theories regarding the number of wicks. Traditionally and widely accepted ghee lamp wicks are 1 or 2 or 5 or 7. One wick indicates good health; Two wicks indicate prosperity; Five wicks indicate auspiciousness and peace and Seven wicks indicate success.

Saptarishis are the seven great seers in Hinduism. They are believed to have existed even before the Vedic period. They are divine beings and they are stars. They reside in the sky. The saptarishis are – Brhaspati, Kashyapa, Gautama, Atri, Vishwamitra, Jamadagni and Vasishta. Saptarishis are seven in number and are possessed of seven virtues. They are all long-lived and composers of Vedic mantras or hymns possessed of divine powers and transcendent vision and senior in merits, learning and age. They are credited with an intuitive or direct perception of Dharma or the divine law. (Vayu Purana) Sri Krishna mentions about them in the Mahabharata and they were born of His will. All these Seven Seers are Prajapatis, possessing uncommon spiritual glow and wisdom. Being creators of beings, they are known as the Seven Brahmas. (Mahabharata, Shanti Parva) Ursa Major constellation or Great Bear constellation is known as Saptarishi in Hinduism. Saptarishis live for a Kalpa o...