Duryodhana is the chief antagonist in the Mahabharata. He was a great warrior but filled with ego, arrogance and wickedness. The reason for his evil character is perhaps due to the mysterious circumstances in which he was born. The birth of Duryodhana was from a lump of cold flesh that was delivered by Gandhari. Dhritarashtra’s wife Gandhari had conceived but the delivery did not happen for two years. One day she got the news that Kunti, wife of Pandu (younger brother of Dhritarashtra), had delivered a son. Gandhari grew jealous. Filled with jealousy and anger, she pressed her womb so forcefully that a large lump of flesh came out. Sage Vyasa who was present in Hastinapura got to know about the unfortunate incident. He advised the lump to be cut into one hundred pieces and deposited in jars of ghee. The remnant piece was put into another jar. In due course of time, the jars burst and a hundred boys and a girl came out. The first one to come out of the pot was named Du...

Swayamvara pushpanjali pooja is performed by those Hindus who are facing problems in marriage. Those people who are facing various difficulties in getting married perform the puja along with other prayers and rituals. Swayamvara pushpanjali puja is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and is performed for early marriage. Benefits of Swayamvara Pushpanjali Pooja It helps with early marriage. Those involved in love – romantic relationship will have marriage held. Desire fulfillment regarding marriage matters. Monday and Rohini Nakshatra Swayamvara Pushpanjali Pooja, which is performed on a Monday when there is Rohini Nakshatram, is highly meritorious. Rohini is the nakshatra of Bhagavan Sri Krishna and when it joins with Monday, the results are manifold. How long – Offerings - Mantras Along with the puja, the person should observe Monday fasting, visiting a Shiva-Parvati shrine on Monday and Uma-Maheshwara Puja. White color flowers should be offered to ...

When something goes wrong in life, know that it is due to imbalance. There needs to be a balance in life. This can only happen when we are ready to be part of nature by embracing the whole. Focusing only on one area of life and neglecting others invites trouble. Balance should be there on the inside and outside. Most of us are very careful with our external interactions. But this carefulness is missing in the internal interactions. Thoughts and feelings should be balanced.   The best way to avoid imbalance in life is to have a simple life. Breathe properly. Have good healthy routine. Wake up early. There should be emotional and physical discipline. When the mind is disturbed, concentrate on your breathing. Inhale deeply and exhale slowly. A peaceful and happy life is only possible when there is proper understanding of life. The feeling of oneness with universe is necessary for it. To accept that I am part of nature and I am bound by the laws of nature is necessary. When ...

Bandhu Bhava as per Hindu astrology is the house indicating relations in a person’s horoscope. The house, which stands for brothers and sisters, is referred to as Sahaja Bhava (born together). Bandhu Bhava is examined for indications about relatives and relationships with them. It is the fourth house in a horoscope. A strong placement of Budha (mercury) indicates respect of relatives. If Guru (Jupiter or Brishaspati) resides in the fourth house then the person will have highly placed relatives. If the Lord of the fourth house is malefic, then relatives will suffer, the person will be disliked by relatives and there will hatred in the family.

A person may at first take some external thing as an object of his meditation, but he should afterwards think of it as existing only in the form of the mind; and lastly the mind also should be reduced to Brahman which is pure consciousness. Then alone one is said to have reached the highest goal. By constant practice of contemplation and discrimination there dawns on the mind of the aspirant the knowledge that Brahman alone is and nothing else exists. Thus the ignorance which has so long deluded him by projecting the world of duality, comes to an end. Thereafter the mind also, which by destroying ignorance has brought the aspirant so close to Brahman, vanishes like the fire which after consuming its fuel is itself extinguished, then Brahman alone shines in Its own glory. After long practice, the aspirant at first realizes, while in Samadhi, the presence of Brahman which pervades the inner and the outer world. But this is not all. He should then hold on this Brahmic consciousnes...

There are three different stories in the Puranas regarding the birth of Sage Durvasa. The only common factor in all the three stories is that Lord Shiva is responsible for the birth of the Sage. One such story suggests that Durvasa was born from an arrow. Once, Shiva became so furious seeing the Adharma practiced by demons. His anger took the shape of an arrow and annihilated the demons. People were satisfied and happy with end of the rule of demons. But the arrow could not be stopped by humans, saints, or Devas. If not controlled, the arrow would destroy the universe. Devas prayed to Shiva to call back the arrow. Shiva then intervened and took back the arrow. It returned to the lap of Shiva. The arrow was then born as Sage Durvasa. As the arrow represents anger, Sage Durvasa became a fierce teacher who cursed anyone who crossed him.

Worship of Hanuman is gaining popularity in this Kali Yuga because he is Sankat Mochan – one who can help us out of all types of troubles. There are numerous ways to please Hanuman. One important method is to donate Hanuman Chalisa book on Tuesday. Hanuman Chalisa was composed by Goswami Tulsidas Ji to please Hanuman. It is written in simple language. Donating 11 books with Hanuman Chalisa help a devotee in overcoming troubles and fulfillment of desires. Donating the book earns the blessing of Hanuman. As more and more people read the Hanuman Chalisa donated by him, the person will be blessed with wealth, happiness, progress and prosperity.

Praying fervently and effectively in Hinduism is a deeply spiritual practice that goes beyond ritual, helping individuals build a connection with divine energies. Hindu prayer (or "puja") can be performed at home or in a temple, allowing practitioners to express gratitude, seek blessings, and grow spiritually. Here are some key aspects, prayers, and steps to incorporate into a meaningful, effective practice. 1. Preparation for Prayer Timing: Early mornings (Brahma Muhurta, around 4-6 am) and evening (Sandhya time) are considered most auspicious for prayer. However, praying at a consistent time that fits one's daily routine is beneficial. Environment: Create a clean and dedicated space for prayer, ideally with a small altar or place to display pictures or idols of deities. Clothing and Colors: White, saffron (orange), and yellow are considered ideal colors. For specific deities: Saraswati: White or yellow (symbolizing purity and wisdom). Lakshmi: Red or pink (prosperi...

Is there a way to find out which car number is lucky for me? Many people ask this question. Suppose the car number is 241821. Then to find out whether it is lucky or not you need to add the number. 2 + 4 + 1 +8 + 2 + 2 = 19 1 + 9 = 10 1+ 0 = 1 So now you need to know whether the number 1 is lucky. One One is a lucky number. It indicates auspicious beginning. The number is associated with Sun God (Surya). Health, wealth and protection are associated with the number. There will be progress. Two Two is an average number. There is no major luck associated with it. It symbolically represents two different aspects. If the two can join and work together then there will be progress. But we all know how difficult it is for two individuals to strive together and achieve perfection. The number is associated with relationship. The number is good only if you have a strong and reliable partner. Three There is considered highly auspicious in many cultures. It has divin...

Along with the story of Goddess Mookambika, the article provides a complete information on Kollur Mookambika Temple along with details about Kodachadri mountain range, Ganapathi Cave, Souparnika River, Sarvajna Peetha and Chitramoola. Story of Goddess Mookambika is found in the Skanda Purana. The ancient Purana narrates that a demon named Kaumasura performed intense austerities and was blessed with the darshan of Mahadev Shiva. The demon intended to ask immense powers and immortality as boon. But Goddess Saraswati as Vagdevi robbed the demon of his speech. The demon was thus unable to ask the boon and from that day he came to be known as Mookasura.  Through the austerities performed, Mookasura had attained immense strength. He used this strength to attack the Devas and human beings. To put an end to the demon, Goddess Shakti, Lakshmi and Saraswati combined into one form and annihilated the demon Mookasura. Devi then merged into the Shivling at Kolluru....

Teachings on miracles in Hindu religion by Master Yogi Bhola Nathji. A miracle is an incident or action of which we do not know the cause nor the end. Ordinary intelligence fails to understand it. Science is left wondering. Our ordinary education and experiences have prescribed the limitations of our knowledge in this short life. If any 'miracle' happens through the instrumentality of any individual, we say, this is contrary to the Laws of Nature. Miracles which we believe to be contrary to the Laws of Nature, belong to a field of activity which is unknown to us-so far. Why are we startled even at the mention of the word 'miracle' when the whole universe which we see before us, is in itself a great miracle? Why, then, if anything unknown before happens, should we start wondering? Why should we say it is impossible? Miracles belong to a stage in the path of progress towards spiritual life, which is more dangerous. They are apt to divert genuine seekers after Truth ...

In Hinduism, prayers for fertility are offered to gods and goddesses who are known to bless devotees with children, marital happiness, and physical well-being. Devotees seeking fertility often pray to deities like Parvati, Kamadev, Rati Devi, Krishna, Shiva, Annapurna, Saraswati, Dhanvantari, and the Ashwini Kumaras. Each of these deities has a unique significance in promoting fertility, health, and harmony. Deities to Worship for Fertility Goddess Parvati : She symbolizes motherhood, family, and feminine power. As Shiva’s consort, she represents fertility and creation. Kamadev and Rati Devi : Kamadev is the god of love and desire, while Rati is his consort. Together, they bring passion, harmony, and the desire to expand family. Lord Krishna : Known for his divine love and charm, Krishna is believed to bless couples with marital bliss and children. Lord Shiva : Known as the creator and destroyer, Shiva’s blessings are believed to aid in both conception and protection of the unborn chil...

Praying for fellowship in Hinduism involves creating an atmosphere of harmony and seeking blessings for unity, cooperation, and positive relationships within one's community. In Hindu tradition, fellowship is considered important for personal growth, mutual support, and the nurturing of positive social bonds. Here’s an expanded guide for fostering fellowship through Hindu prayers, rituals, and practical steps. 1. Simple Prayers for Fellowship Praying for fellowship often involves invoking deities associated with wisdom, unity, compassion, and spiritual knowledge. Here are some simple prayers and mantras you can use: To Saraswati (Goddess of Knowledge and Wisdom): Mantra : “Om Saraswati Namah” Prayer : “O Mother Saraswati, please grant us the wisdom to understand and support one another. Help us to build bonds of knowledge and respect.” To Ganesha (Remover of Obstacles): Mantra : “Om Gan Ganapataye Namah” Prayer : “O Lord Ganesha, remove obstacles that prevent us from coming togethe...

There are no written rules regarding Hanuman Vadamala count. You can offer any number of Vadas depending on your health and financial capacity. Hanuman is usually offered 1, 8, 16, 51, 108 or 1008 Vadas. You can also offer 10008 or 100008… Forget the count, offer it with devotion. All that matters is devotion. Significance of Vada Mala for Hanuman Vada is a food item, which is part of South Indian cuisine. It is made using Urad Dal or Black Gram. Hundreds of Vada are strewn together to make a garland and it is then offered to Hanuman. Significance of Vada Mala is that offering it to Hanuman helps in overcoming Rahu Dosha. The story behind making Vada Mala is associated with Rahu Navgraha. Rahu had given the boon to Hanuman that whoever offers Urad Dal or Black Gram to Hanuman will not have the adverse effect associated with the positioning of Rahu in horoscope. People therefore prepare Vada Mala and offer to Hanuman. Hanuman Vadamala Story Vad...

Holding on and not letting go is a big problem of our times. In holding on there is only suffering but when there is letting go there is freedom, happiness, growth and prosperity. Parents hold on to children and do not let them pursue their dreams. Lovers hold on and suffer lifelong. Holding on is weakness and letting go is strength. There is peace, growth, prosperity and happiness in letting go. The holding on is not limited to people, we also hold on to anger, hurt, grudge, hatred, revenge and many other negativities. They weaken us from within. This weakness soon reflects on our mental, emotional and physical health.  Some of us go into long periods of silence after a fight. This is not positive silence. This is a negative silence. This silence is like a volcano. Lot of hatred, abuse and negative activities are building up. We are holding on to the feeling of hurt and anger. It is not doing us any help. Let out the steam. Talk things out. When you are angry, just shout o...

Pretraj Sarkar is a Hindu God closely associated with Lord Hanuman. He is the King of Ghosts and he is also sometimes mistaken as Yamraj, the Hindu God of Death. The story of Pretraj Sarkar begins with Hanuman burning down Lanka. When Hanuman burned Lanka, Rishi Neelasur attempted to put down the fire using his magic. But none of his magic worked on the fire started by Hanuman. Lanka continued burning. Rishi Neelasur then realized that Hanuman was no ordinary being. He then stood before Hanuman and asked him to reveal his true identity. Hanuman told Rishi Neelasur that he was just a devotee of Lord Ram. He also told him that he was not able to extinguish the fire because it had the blessing of Bhagavan Sri Ram. Rishi Neelasur then asked to take him to Bhagavan Sri Ram. He had his wish fulfilled after the defeat of Ravana in the Ramayana. After the departure of Bhagavan Sri Ram from earth, Hanuman appointed Rishi Neelasur as his minister and lieutenant to spread the ...

 In Hinduism, praying for family unity is a beautiful and holistic practice that involves specific rituals, mantras, prayers, and offerings to various deities. The central belief is that unity and harmony can be achieved when there is divine grace, respect for dharma (right conduct), and blessings from gods and goddesses. Here’s a guide on how to perform prayers and rituals for family unity in Hinduism. 1. Choosing the Deities Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati : Known as the ideal divine couple, Shiva and Parvati represent balance, harmony, and unity in family. Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi : Vishnu and Lakshmi symbolize wealth, peace, and harmony, blessing families with abundance and unity. Lord Ganesha : The remover of obstacles, Ganesha’s blessings are essential for resolving conflicts and creating a positive environment. Lord Hanuman : Hanuman is revered for strength, devotion, and family loyalty; his blessings promote loyalty, strength, and protection within the family. Goddess...

Sapinda in Hinduism is of two types one is Sapinda Relationship and another is the funeral offering. Sapinda Relationship Sapinda is the term used to define those who have a common ancestry from the father’s or mother’s side. Sapinda Relationship is based on Blood relationship Marriage Inheritance of property Blood relationship Seven generations in a family are governed by Sapinda blood relationship on the paternal side for seven years and on maternal side for five years. Sapinda Marriage In the case of a marital relationship, seven generations on the paternal side and five on the maternal side are governed by sapinda relationship. For example, if I get married to a girl who is the offspring of one of the seven generations on the paternal side then I have a sapinda relationship with my wife. Similarly, if I get married to a girl who is the offspring of one of the five generations on the maternal side then also I have a sapinda relationship with my wife....

Praying for family salvation and well-being is a meaningful practice in Hinduism. To perform this kind of prayer, you can focus on a few elements: the deities to honor, the mantras to chant, suitable attire, simple puja steps, and modern practices to make the ritual personal and meaningful. Here’s a structured guide: Ideal Gods and Goddesses to Worship for Family Salvation Vishnu - Known as the preserver, Vishnu helps to sustain family harmony and spiritual well-being. Shiva - Known as the destroyer of evil, Shiva removes negative influences. Goddess Saraswati - As the goddess of wisdom, Saraswati blesses with knowledge and clarity, essential for spiritual growth. Lakshmi - The goddess of prosperity, she provides abundance and happiness in the household. Hanuman - The symbol of devotion and strength, Hanuman is invoked for courage and overcoming difficulties. Ganesha - Known as the remover of obstacles, Ganesha ensures that all family endeavors proceed smoothly. Suggested Simple ...

Nyaogradhashayin form of Vishnu is associated with Vishnu as a child floating on nyagrodha leaf. Nyaogradhashayin form – the child Krishna floating on ficus leaf – in Hinduism is a symbolic representation of the first form of life on earth (or the only form of life). As per Hindu tradition, at the end of one cycle of creation the heat produced by Surya, the sun god, reduces all that is on earth into ashes. This continues for eight thousand yugas. Then Vayu, the wind god, blows relentlessly for many years and huge clouds are formed. It rains incessantly creating a great flood – deluge. The entire earth remains under water for millions of years. On this water lies, Child form of Vishnu (Krishna) on Ficus Leaf  known as nyagrodha. This wonderful incident is mentioned in the Markandeya Purana. Markandeya Rishi was blessed that he will be able to witness the great deluge. The Rishi saw destruction all around. Water submerged everything. For millions of years th...

Karikkakom Sree Chamundi Devi Temple is located about seven kilometers east of Kizhakkekotta in Thiruvananthapuram. The shrine is dedicated to Mother Goddess Shakti who is worshipped in the form of Goddess Chamundi. Karikkakom Sree Chamundi Temple History It is believed that the place had a Kalari of a group of soldiers of erstwhile Travancore kingdom. Therefore the place was known as Kalarikkakom and got abbreviated to Karikkakom. Some scholars are of the view the the place where the present temple is located was a Vayal - known as Kari in local language. So the place got the name Karikkakom from the vayal or kari. Those who committed crimes or were suspects had to prove their innocence in the temple through the procedure of Satyam Thellikkal.  People who have committed sin get redemption after offering prayers here. In ancient times, the temple was a place where justice was delivered and punishments meted out. Three Forms Of Chamundeshwari In The Same Vigraham The deity wor...

Praying for family members in Hinduism involves a blend of devotion, rituals, and intention, all aimed at promoting peace, health, prosperity, and protection for loved ones. Hinduism emphasizes simple, heartfelt prayers as well as elaborate rituals, making it accessible for people at all levels of spiritual practice. 1. Intention and Preparation Intent : Set a clear and loving intention to pray for your family members. Visualize them being blessed, healed, and protected. In Hinduism, the purity of intention is considered highly auspicious. Space : Create a small, clean area at home as a prayer or altar space with images or idols of the deities you feel drawn to. Time : The early morning or evening is ideal for prayer. Prayers said during Brahma Muhurta (around 4:30 AM) are especially powerful. 2. Clothes and Color Suggestions White : Traditionally worn when praying for peace, health, or family unity, white symbolizes purity and clarity. Yellow or Saffron : Suitable for prayers to Lord ...

In Hindu religion, Shani Parihara is the remedial measures adopted to overcome bad effects created in life by the negative positions of planets in a horoscope. Navgrahas or planets occupy a favorable or unfavorable position in a horoscope depending on our previous karma. There are mainly three types of Shanti Parihara: Performing homa or yajna Dana or donations Visiting temples, sacred places and taking bath in sacred rivers and sacred water bodies. The other Shanti Pariharas are Yantra Mantra Tantra Gemstones – wearing of Navratnas In Yantra, a person wears or keeps at home or workplace a two or three-dimensional representation of mantras or mystic syllables. The mantra is chanting the beej mantras and other prayers dedicated to various deities. Tantra involves complicated procedures performed by an adept practitioner. Shanti Parihara is usually performed on the birthday or on death anniversary. It can be performed at home, temple, sacred place or on the ...

As per Hindu beliefs, certain bad omens and accidents in home signal soon to appear financial problems. Recurring of certain accidents and falls in home is an indication that there will money related problems in near future. Leaking water tap in the house. Broken mirror. Container of oil falling down and oil floating. Vessel with mustards seeds accidently falling down and spreading on floor. Leaking house. Loss of gold ornaments. Constant fight among family members. Clock which is not working. Photos, idols and painting of Gods and Goddess, which are not maintained and are filled with dust. Coins falling down repeatedly. Collecting junk in home. You should make sure that the above said things do not happen in your home.

Praying for favor in the Hindu tradition involves devotion, worship, and focusing on specific gods and goddesses associated with blessings, prosperity, knowledge, and success. Here is a comprehensive guide with simple prayers, practical steps for modern times, and more details on how to perform a puja for favor. 1. Selecting Deities for Favor and Prosperity Each deity in Hinduism is associated with specific blessings and areas of life. When praying for favor, one might turn to: Saraswati – Goddess of wisdom, creativity, and learning. Lakshmi – Goddess of wealth, fortune, and prosperity. Annapurna – Goddess of nourishment and abundance. Ganesha – Remover of obstacles and giver of success. Shiva – Lord of transformation and protection. Vishnu – Preserver and protector, source of strength and favor. Hanuman – Symbol of strength, courage, and devotion. Bhairava – Protector deity, especially during difficult times. Narasimha – Fierce protector form of Vishnu, symbolizing victory ov...