Several stories are associated with Holi in Hindu scriptures but the colours to play Holi festival only find its origin in the trees and flowers in spring season. Earlier, colors were made from natural products. In fact, all the colors used in various Hindu celebrations, art forms and paintings were made using natural products. Lord Krishna played Holi using the Tesu flowers which are found in abundance during the season. Today, we use highly toxic chemical substances to make colours during Holi. Some of these chemicals are purely meant for industrial use. But often the customer is cheated into buying these cheap colors. Most people are also unaware of the components used to make these colors. To make a quick money some manufacturers are seen to adulterate the colours with diesel, chromium iodine, engine oil, copper sulphate, and glass powder (to add sheen), which is known to cause nausea, headache, breathlessness among other ailments. The chemical colors are ma...

There are some Hindu scriptures that list thirty-nine avatars of incarnations of Lord Vishnu. A list of thirty-nine avatars as found in the Ahirbhudhnya Samhita. The thirty-nine avatars are: Padmanabha                   Dhruva Ananta                            Shaktatman Madhusudhana               Vidhyadhideva Kapila                              Vishwarupa Vihangama                        Krodatman Badabavaktra                    Dharma Vagishwara                       Ekarnavasayin Kamateshwara                  Varaha Narasimha  ...

The 69th Acharya of Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam Jagadguru Pujyashri Jayendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya Swamigal attained Samadhi (died) at 9:00 am on February 28, 2019 (today) – Phalgun Shukla Paksha Trayodashi (Maasi month) - at Sri Kanchi Kamakotii Peetam Sankara Matam, Kanchipuram. Last rites Last rites - Brindavana Pravesha Karyakramam of His Holiness Pujyashri Jayendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya Swamigal - will be performed on 1st March from 8 AM. Life History of Kanchi Shankaracharya Jayendra Saraswathi (1954 – 2019) Kanchi Shankaracharya Jayendra Saraswathi  was born as Sri Subramaniyam on July 18, 1935 at Irulneekki in Thanjavur District. He had study of Vedas at Tiruvidaimarudur under the direction of Mahaswamigal (Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswati Swamigal). He was initiated into Sanyasa on March 22, 1954 and was declared as successor Acharya and given the Sanyasa name Sri Jayendra Saraswati Sri Pada. Jayendra Saraswathi succeeded Chandrasekarendra Sara...

Indrakund is a holy place on the banks of Aruna River at Panchavati in Nashik, Maharashtra. The holy pond and temple here is visited by devotees who are on a spiritual journey to Panchavati. Bhagavan Sri Ram, Mata Sita and Lakshman resided at Panchavati during their exile period in the Ramayana. Story of Indrakund Legend has it that Gautam Rishi cursed Indra to have pores in his body. To escape from the curse, Indra performed holy bath in the small pond here. He was then relieved of the curse and the place came to be known as Indrakund. The Indrakund Devasthan here has murtis of Vishnu, Hanuman and Ganesha. There is also Shivling here. Godavari River passes through the middle of Nashik city. The area on the northern banks of Godavari River is known as Panchavati. The area on the southern bank is known as Nashik city. There are temples and sacred place on the both the banks but people pilgrims prefer to stay in northern bank because Tapovan and many tirths are located ...

Once in Varanasi, two young men were walking through the Hanuman Square. They saw two young women drowning. Seeing this, they jumped into the water. They rescued and brought to shore those two women, who were about to drown. The rescued women thanked the young men. One young man asked the young woman he had rescued to marry him. He believed that this world was the only truth. The other young man looked upon women elder to him as his mother, those of his age as sisters, and women younger to him as his daughters. Hence, he said to the young woman he had rescued: ‘Sister, God has provided me the opportunity to do a good deed. I have done my duty.’ He believed that God alone was true. Externally, both the men did the same act of rescuing a life, but they differed in their attitudes. Hence, they got different results of the same work. Work that is done expecting results leads to bondage. Work that is done with the idea that one is the instrument of God and with an attitude of s...

Holi with ashes of the dead in Varanasi is observed in Phalgun month, couple of days before Dhulandi or Holi with colors. It is held at the famous Manikarnika Cremation Ghat in Kashi. In 2026, it will be held on  February 28. This unique Holi in Banaras is played with ' chita bhasma' (ashes from pyres) and red gulals amid the burning pyres. The tradition is mentioned in the Skanda Purana and other scriptures. The tradition of playing holi amidst burning pyres is a very ancient tradition. Symbolically it proves that death is not fearful, and dying in Banaras means attaining moksha.  Manikarnika Cremation Ghat Holi is also believed to be the Holi of Shiva ganas, who missed the chance to celebrate Holi with him on Rangbhari Ekadashi day. Holi in Varanasi begins on Rangbhari Ekadashi. The belief is that Shiva and Goddess Parvati comes back to home after their divine wedding on the Rangbhari Ekadasi and this ritual is known as Gauna. The very nex...

For many Holi is not just a festival of colors but an occasion to revel in ‘Bhang ki Thandai.’ Bhang is made from the leaves of Hemp and is considered to be the least intoxicating of the cannabis preparations in India . But is capable of giving a high for the entire day and is sold openly during Holi festival. Bhang ki Thandai is also given as a prasad in certain temples during the festivals. The Bhang usually comes in two varieties – capsule, dried Bhang leaves and dried plant. The capsules or golis are added to ice cream, sweets, paan etc. The dried plant or leaves is soaked in water and then it is cleaned and finally grounded on a stone slab to get the paste which is taken along with Badam milk or any sweet preparation. The sweet and the Bhang are considered to a highly potent combination and is said to give a real high. Therefore many revelers wait for Holi to get intoxicated in public. For fun, many people are also fed bhang mixed drinks and sweets without their ...

Chandanayika is a fierce manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti. She is closely associated with Goddess Durga and is invoked during Durga Puja. She is rarely mentioned in Puranas. But she is counted among a group of Navdurgas. She is a tantric deity and invoked for victory over enemies. She is also propitiated for good harvest and for early cure of various diseases. How to Worship Goddess Chandanayika? She is offered prayers mainly on Tuesday and during Ashtami tithi (the eighth day during the waning phase of moon). Wear red color dress and performing the puja facing east. Create a mental picture of Goddess in the mind. Light lamp using mustard oil and opt for two wicks. Offer red color flowers. Offer red chandan (sandalwood paste). Offer Kumkum. The sweet on the day should be prepared using rice. Benefits of Chandanayika Worship Desire fulfilment. Victory over enemies. Work that was abandoned or facing problems due to unknown reasons can be restarted ...

Lankini, the warrior maiden, was the guardian of Lanka, the kingdom of Ravana . Hanuman was stopped by Lankini when He attempted to enter the golden palace of Ravana . Lankini never slept and she guarded the palace day and night. As per Hindu tradition, Lankini was once the guardian of the abode of Brahma. As she guarded the home of the creator, Brahma, she was arrogant about her powers and status. This made her hot-headed and egoistic. She treated others in the palace with contempt and finally she was cursed by Brahma for her arrogance. Brahma cursed her to guard the city of demons. Soon Lankini realized her mistake and asked for pardon. Brahma gave her the boon that she will escape from the curse when a monkey will defeat her. Hanuman was eager to find Mata Sita and this is when Lankini stopped him. Lankini was huge figure with red protruding huge eyes and huge weapons. An impatient Hanuman did not want to fight Lankini and waste His time. So Hanuman grew in siz...

Beam in house is not good as per vastu because your energy flow will be disturbed due to iron content in it. Sitting, sleeping and working under the bead causes serious problems as per Vastu Shastra. Problems due to beam in house Lethargy Irritability Fights in home Lack of energy Mental disturbances Negative thoughts Difficulties How to overcome the problems due to beam in house? Avoid sitting, sleeping and doing important work in the house under the beam. Hang bamboo flutes from the two sides of the beam. Completely cover the beam using false ceiling made using wood. Ancient Hindu Homes In ancient times, Hindus built home only using natural materials - mud, wood, stone and leaves of trees.  It is said that before cutting a tree for construction purpose special pujas were held. Permission was taken from the tree and from all the animals residing on the tree. Modern construction involves all kinds of materials that makes life difficult....

How to sleep properly as per Ayurveda? Peaceful Time Hours Before Sleep Spend time away from work and stressful interactions in the hours before sleep. Use the time for bonding, good relationships, enjoyment, and appreciation. Bring inner light into your environment after sunset. The Ayurvedic prescriptions for a healthy night routine involve a fruitful end of the day and preparations for the night ahead, including meals, relationships, preparation for the next day, and sleep. Amount of Sleep Each person needs a different amount of sleep. That amount differs slightly based on how the day’s events stressed the body. Emotional traumas, violence, and anger require more time in sleep. People with heavier bodies, or with toxins in their bodies, need more time in sleep. Vastu and Sleep Never sleep with the crown of the head facing north. The alignment of the chakras has its own flow and should not be in alignment with the magnetic field of the earth. When you sleep with the h...

Koodalike or Koodukattu is a unique form of Holi observed by Hindu communities who migrated from Goa to the Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Uttara Kannada districts in Karnataka. These Hindu communities shifted to these regions after they were prosecuted by the Portuguese. This is a five-day festival begins on the Dasami or the 10th day of the Shukla Paksha of Phalguna month and ends with the Holi Purnima and festival. The migrated communities form small groups known as Koodalike or Koodukattu, which is headed by a Gurkar. The festival is observed in the place of the Gurkar or at a convenient spot. The festival begins after offering prayers to the Tulsi Plant. A coconut and a lamp lit on it which is touched by all the members of the Koodalike is offered to the Tulsi plant. This is done to have an incident free five-day of festivals. A unique dance is observed during the ritual to music of gong, sticks, cymbals and other musical instruments and it is known as Habbada...

Here are some important tips to protect your skin, hair, scalp and nails during Holi festival. If not taken proper care the chemical colors can wreak havoc on your skin, scalp, hair and nails. Traditionally, holi was played with natural colors made from herbs, flowers, roots and leaves. They were good for the body. They were beneficial in many ways. But today natural holi colors are replaced with synthetic and chemical colors. Hence it is very important to take care of the body during holi festival. Pre Holi Always use natural holi colours. Use a moisturizer or sunscreen on your face and all those parts that are exposed. Do not leave your hair untied on Holi. Wear thick hairband with a bow or opt for bandana. Use oil or conditioner on your hair before playing Holi. The oil or conditioner will form a thin layer and it will act as a barrier. You can easily remove it with shampoo later. Paint nails with transparent varnish. Keep nails trimmed. If you’re allergic to chemicals, co...

Dandia is a special sari, or saree, gifted to daughters during the Holi festival. Dandia therefore is an important Holi gift and many Hindu parents make it a point to gift the sari during Holi. Married daughters are invited and are specifically presented with the saree. Dandias are also unique saris and they differ from the normal saris in appearance. In some places, Dandia is only gifted to newly-wed daughters. In other regions, the sari is presented to both married and unmarried daughters. In some places, along with Dandia a normal sari is also gifted. Dandia is a cotton sari with Indian pink edges. The pink color creates an uneven pattern and the sari can be described as a pink and white colored sari. The saree also contains other designs and the part covering the head has ‘kiran’ attached to it. ‘Kiran’ is the gold or silver color borders found on the sari of brides. The pallu also has ‘kiran’ attached to it. Dandia is worn by newly-weds on the day of Holi...

Married couples those who are unable to have children due to various reasons can find relief after offering Yashoda – Krishna Puja at home. Here is brief idea on how to perform the Yashoda – Krishna Puja. How to Perform Yashoda – Krishna Puja at Home? Take bath in the morning and wear yellow color dress. Offer prayers to Ganesha in mind. Perform the puja facing east or northeast. Keep the painting of Yashoda holding little Krishna on a yellow color cloth. Light the lamp using cow ghee – if you have copper lamp use it. Light one wick. Offer red color flowers. Offer gugal dhoop or other fragrant flower agarbhatti. Offer white chandan. Make a Prasad using jaggery, milk and rice. Sprinkle some tulsi leaves on the cooked Prasad and offer it. This should be later shared with family members and children. Chant the mantra ॐ यशोदा - वत्सलाय नमः (Om Yashoda Vatsalaya Namah) 108 times using a chandan mala. Special Offerings to have children Keep a kalash fille...

Tiruvundiyar is a Shaiva Siddhanta text. Shaiva Siddhanta is one of the many South Indian schools of Shaivism. There are fourteen Shaiva Siddhanta texts and Tiruvundiyar is the first among them. The author of the text is Tiruviyalur Uyyavanda Devar. The scripture contains the quintessence of Shaiva Siddhanta teachings in 45 verses. The text is composed in a meter known as Kalittal issai. The text is unique and interesting as the author addresses a fly about the basic truths of the philosophy. The author states that all evils, vices, and blemishes fly away on listening to the truth of Shiva. The basic theme of the literary work is that one can only see Shiva through his grace. One has to make one’s heart free of all vices. It has to be purified. Then one can enjoy the unalloyed bliss of Shiva. -------------- Tiruvundiyar is an important text in the Shaiva Siddhanta tradition, a school of Shaivism that emphasizes devotion to Shiva as the supreme deity. Shaiva Siddhanta is o...

Goddess Bramarambika is a revered form of Parvati, worshiped particularly as the consort of Lord Mallikarjuna (a form of Shiva). She is one of the eighteen Shakti Peethas, making her one of the most sacred forms of the Divine Feminine. This comprehensive guide will take you through the worship rituals for Goddess Bramarambika, focusing on eco-friendly practices, cleanliness, timings, attire, and the significance of each step. 1. Importance of Worshiping Goddess Bramarambika Worshiping Goddess Bramarambika brings peace, prosperity, protection, and inner strength. Her blessings are believed to remove obstacles, grant success, and foster spiritual growth. Devotees seek her blessings to attain balance, health, and wisdom. She represents the energies of compassion and power, guiding devotees toward self-realization and spiritual harmony. 2. Cleanliness and Preparations Cleanliness is paramount in any Hindu worship. Here’s how to prepare for a Bramarambika puja: Personal Cleanliness: Take a...

Worshipping Goddess Sharvari Devi, also known as an aspect of Goddess Durga, is considered auspicious in Hinduism. Her blessings bring peace, protection, prosperity, and spiritual strength. Worshippers believe that Sharvari Devi, also called the "Goddess of Twilight" or "Evening Star," embodies the energies that remove darkness and negative forces. Here is a detailed guide on how to perform a simple, eco-friendly worship (puja) for Goddess Sharvari Devi. 1. Benefits of Worshipping Goddess Sharvari Devi Protection from negative influences and evil energies. Health and healing for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Inner strength to overcome challenges and obstacles in life. Peace and prosperity in the home, fostering harmony among family members. Spiritual growth by removing ignorance, encouraging wisdom and enlightenment. 2. Purity and Cleanliness Personal Cleanliness: Begin with a bath and wear fresh clothes as a symbol of purity. Puja Space Cleanli...

What is the lucky number of Kark Rashi born people? The benefits of lucky number include progress and change in luck. Kark rashi lucky number is one. The people born in the rashi should buy car, bike or scooter having number one in it or when added the total should be one. Buying shop number 1 is good for the Kark Rashi people. Similarly, buying flat or plot having number one is good. Having mobile number with number 1 is good for the people. Lighting one-wick lamp on birthday is good for Kark Rashi. Offer one coconut and a banana to Hanuman to overcome all forms of troubles in life. Offer one banana to Vishnu and offer prayers. Later give the banana to a cow.

Worship of Goddess Anumati in Hinduism: A Comprehensive Guide Goddess Anumati, a Vedic goddess mentioned in the Rig Veda , is revered for her grace and blessings. She is associated with the waxing moon and is seen as a provider of prosperity, children, long life, and wisdom. Worshipping Anumati is traditionally believed to be most effective on specific moon phases, particularly on the Anumati tithi (day), which is typically the 14th day of the waxing fortnight, just before the full moon. 1. Benefits of Worshipping Goddess Anumati Wealth and Prosperity: Devotees often seek Anumati's blessings for material well-being. Health and Longevity: She is believed to bestow good health and a long life upon her worshippers. Children: Couples praying for children may perform this puja with particular reverence. Wisdom and Clarity: Goddess Anumati blesses her devotees with wisdom, clarity, and calmness of mind. 2. Preparation and Cleanliness Personal Cleanliness: Bathing and wearing clean ...

Hurang or Hurdang Holi celebration is dedicated to Balram, or Baldev, the elder brother of Lord Krishna. It is observed in and around Baldev Town , around 20 km from Mathura . The temple dedicated to Balaram here is known as Dauji Ka Mandir. Thandai, a cool drink mixed with Bhang, is lavishly served during the period and this intoxicates the Holi participants here. Hurang is observed for two days during Holi period. The Baldev town turns into a carnival of music, rasia competitions and folk dances during the period. People go around splashing colors from pichkaris or mini water cannons from dawn to dusk. Thousands of Krishna devotees arrive at the town to observe the festival. The colors for the festival are prepared from Tesu flowers in a huge tank in the premise of the Baldev Temple . Traditional musical instruments are used create music during the period. But the highlight of the festival is the activities of people under the influence of bhang.

What is the lucky number of Mithuna Rashi born people? The benefits of lucky number include progress and change in luck. Mithuna rashi lucky number is four. The people born in the rashi should buy car, bike or scooter having number four in it or when added the total should be four. Buying shop number 4 is good for the Mithuna Rashi people. Similarly, buying flat or plot having number four is good. Having mobile number with number 4 is good for the people. Lighting four-wick lamp on birthday is good for Mithuna Rashi. Make a garland of four peepal leaves and offer it to Hanuman to overcome all forms of troubles in life. Offer four banana to Vishnu and offer prayers. Later give the bananas to a cow.

Deotamura, means peak of God, is famous for its panels of rock carvings on a steep mountain wall on the bank of Gomati River in Tripura. The place is also known as Chabimura or Devtamura and is around 75 km from Agarthala and 5 km from Amarpur. Huge images of Shiva, Vishnu, Kartik, Mahishasuramardini Durga and other gods and goddesses from Hindu pantheon are carved on a mountain at Deotamura. It is believed that the images were carved during 15th and 16th centuries. To reach one can take bus from Udaipur to Rangamati. From Rangamati one has to take a boat to reach Deotamura.

Worshiping Goddess Samaleshwari, the presiding deity of Sambalpur in Odisha, is a deeply revered tradition in Hinduism. Known as the Mother Goddess and an embodiment of Shakti, she is worshiped for protection, prosperity, and divine blessings. This comprehensive guide offers an eco-friendly approach to her worship, emphasizing traditional practices, benefits, cleanliness, timing, and concluding rituals. 1. Benefits of Worshiping Goddess Samaleshwari Worship of Goddess Samaleshwari is believed to bring several spiritual and material benefits, including: Protection from negative forces and evils. Prosperity and wealth in personal and professional life. Health and well-being , especially relief from chronic ailments. Inner peace and mental clarity. Strength and courage to face life's adversities. Spiritual growth and connection to divine energy. 2. Cleanliness and Preparation Purify Yourself : Bathe and wear clean, traditional clothes before beginning. Prepare the Puja Space : Cl...

The pantheon of Hindu deities is rich and diverse, reflecting a wide array of beliefs, practices, and philosophical traditions. Among these deities, Shiva and Vishnu stand out as two of the most prominent and widely revered gods. Despite their shared status in the Hindu tradition, Shiva and Vishnu embody different aspects of the divine and hold unique places within the broader spectrum of Hindu theology. This essay explores the key differences between Shiva and Vishnu, encompassing their iconography, roles, associated myths, and theological significance. Iconography The visual representations of Shiva and Vishnu are distinct and symbolize their differing attributes and roles within Hinduism. Shiva is typically depicted as an ascetic with a tranquil and meditative demeanor. He is often shown with a third eye on his forehead, symbolizing wisdom and insight. His matted hair holds the Ganges River, representing purification, and he is frequently adorned with serpents, a crescent moon, an...

Dantura is a malevolent form of the Mother Goddess. She is invoked through tantric rites and is worshipped mainly in eastern parts of India. Dantura means one having fangs. "She is described as having bare canine teeth, rounded eyes, ghastly smile, emaciated body, lean and pendulous breasts, sunken belly and peculiar sitting posture." Some scholars equate her with Alakshmi. Goddess Dantura, in Hinduism, represents a fierce and malevolent form of the Mother Goddess. Primarily revered in the eastern regions of India, Dantura is a deity who embodies the darker aspects of divinity. Her worship involves intricate and secretive tantric rites, reflecting her complex and formidable nature. The name "Dantura" itself translates to "one having fangs," a reference to her fearsome appearance. She is typically described with vivid and terrifying characteristics: her bare canine teeth are prominent, enhancing her fearsome demeanor. Her eyes are rounded and inte...

Worshipping Goddess Ambika in Hinduism is considered a powerful and auspicious practice that brings peace, protection, health, and prosperity. Goddess Ambika, also known as Durga or Parvati, is the embodiment of power (Shakti), protection, and motherhood, representing feminine strength and divine grace. Here is a comprehensive guide to worshipping Goddess Ambika, covering preparation, steps of the puja, items required, eco-friendly practices, mantras, and the significance of each part. 1. Significance and Benefits of Worshipping Goddess Ambika Worshipping Goddess Ambika is believed to bestow the following blessings: Protection and Courage : She removes fear and negative energies, offering spiritual protection. Prosperity and Abundance : Ambika brings prosperity, wealth, and fortune to the devotee’s household. Health and Well-being : Praying to her can alleviate physical and mental ailments. Spiritual Growth : She guides the devotee towards self-realization and inner strength. 2. Prepar...

The story of Khatu Shyam, lovingly known as Shyam Baba, is the story of unfathomable sacrifice. Khatu Shyam was the grandson of Bhima, the second of Pandavas. He willingly gave his head to Lord Krishna before the Mahabharata war. It is said that the head of Khatu Shyam was placed atop a hill near the Kurukshetra and he watched the entire Mahabharata war from there. Khatu Shyam Katha Full Version Previous Birth of Khatu Shyam In his previous birth, Khatu Shyam was a Yaksha. Once when Adharma (evil) grew out of control on earth, Vishnu agreed to the prayers of Devas and humans and agreed to take an avatar to bring back Dharma. A Yaksha named Suryavarcha said that not Vishnu but he alone could relieve earth’s burden. For this arrogance, he was cursed by Brahma to be born on earth and said that whenever there is an opportunity to relieve earth’s burden he would die at the hands of Krishna. Grandson of Bhima in Mahabharat Later Khatu Shyam was born as the son of Ghatotkach...