--> Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts from January 18, 2023


Achyuta Krishnananda Tirtha – His Writings

Achyuta Krishnananda Tirtha (1650 – 1750 CE) was a writer on Advaita Vedanta. He hailed from Tamil Nadu, studied under Svayamprakashananda Saraswati, the teacher of Vedanti Mahadeva (who wrote a commentary on Vishnu Sahasranama in 1694 CE), Sarvajna, and Advaitananda, all three being eminent scholars. He is known for his erudition in interpreting canonical texts, which explain the tenets of Advaita philosophy. Krishnalankara of Achyuta Krishnananda Tirtha is a commentary on Siddhantalesha Sangraha, a well known work of Appaya Dikshita, who brought together the views of different philosophers on the monistic school of Shankara, but made no attempt to harmonize the differences. Another commentary of the writer is Vanamala on Shankara’s Bhashya on Taittiriya Upanishad. He also wrote commentaries on Katha Upanishad-bhashyatika and Chandogya Upanishad Vivarana. Bhavadipika is a commentary on Vacaspati Mishra’s Bhamati which, in turn, is a commentary on Shankara Bhashya on Brahma Sutra. He

Magh Navratri 2025 January - February - Importance - Mantra - How to Perform Gupt Navratri in Hindu Magh Month

Magh Navratri, or Gupt Navratri, is observed Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) of Magh or Magha month (January – February) as per the traditional Hindu calendar followed in North India . In 2025, Magh Navratri begins on January 30 and ends on February 6, 2025. Magh Navratri is dedicated to the nine forms of Shakti – Hindu Mother Goddess. The Navratri rituals are followed mainly by women in the Hindi speaking states in India . Importance of Magh Navratri Magh Navratri is also known as Gupt Navratri. The rituals and forms of Shakti worshipped during Magh Navratri vary from region to region. In some regions, it is noted for a nine-day community worship of the nine forms of Shakti. Gupt means secretive and the puja and rituals are performed to obtain Gupt Siddhi (secretive powers) by Tantrics. Dasa Mahavidyas are invoked during the period by adept tantrics to obtain various Siddhis. The ritual is more widely practiced in certain regions in North India. Fasting is o

Sri Panchami 2024 date – dedicated to Goddess Saraswati in Magh month

Sri Panchami is dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi, the Hindu Goddess of Learning and it is also known as Saraswati Puja. Sri Panchami 2024 date is February 14. It is observed as the birthday or Jayanti of Goddess Saraswati in North and Eastern parts of India and Nepal in Magh Mahina (January – February). The day is popularly observed as Basant Panchami. Note in some regions it is also observed on Chaitra Shukla Paksha Panchami (April 13, 2024). In some regions it is also observed on Chaitra Krishna Paksha Panchami as per traditional calendar followed in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh (April 29, 2024). Shri Panchami is observed on the fifth day during the Shukla Paksha of Magh month (January – February) as per traditional Hindu lunar calendar. The popular belief is that Goddess Saraswati made her appearance for the good of the human beings on the day. Goddess Saraswati is worshipped using yellow followers and yellow colored clothes o

Acharanga Sutra – Jaina Text

Acharanga Sutra is a Jaina text on code of conduct. Acharanga Sutra contains axioms laid down by Mahavira, and compiled by his ganadhara (principal disciple) Sudharma. There are nine chapters in this text and it is composed in both poetry and prose. The language of Jain agama literature is Ardha Magadhi, and this is used in this text. It was transmitted orally for a long time. Acharanga  (code of conduct) is complicated subject not easily understood by everyone. Hence, a number of commentaries were written on it from time to time in different languages and forms. These are niryuktis (commentaries written in Prakrit language in poetry form) ad curni (commentaries in Sanskrit with explanatory notes). The first scholar who wrote a commentary in Sanskrit, Tattvaditya was Acharya Silanka, also known as Silacharya. He is said to have lived in the 9th and 10th century CE. Later commentaries in Sanskrit are based on Silanka’s work. Hermann Jakobi translated it into English and wrote a schola

Abhiras – An Ancient Hindu Community

Abhiras is an ancient Hindu community, some of whose members became officials and kings in the 2nd and 3rd centuries CE. Abhiras were an ancient community whose primary occupation was tending cattle. Those still adhering to this calling are known as ahiras. There were certain areas where they tended to concentrate, as is known from ancient literary and epigraphic evidence. They spoke a kind of Apabhramsha which Bharata’s Natyashastra called Sabari. Among sudras they were given a superior status and were often spoken of as mahasudra, i.e. superior sudra. Their settlements (abhira-pallis) were known as ghosha. Ancient Hindu texts associate Abhiras with various regions of India. According to the Mahabharata, they lived in the region where the sacred river Saraswati disappeared, viz., Rajasthan, Pancanada (Punjab), more especially its eastern part, between Satluj and Yamuna. Vishnu Purana speaks of their settlements in Saurashtra, Avanti (western Malwa),   Sura (Mathura), Arbuda (Aravali

Pratika In Hinduism – Religious Symbols

In Hinduism, pratika means religious symbols. The maximum use of the pratikas is found in the Vedic and post-Vedic Hindu religion literature. Every sentiment, every ideal, every institution associated with the religion subsists in the atmosphere of symbols. Religions survive through symbols, and it is through symbols alone that we have access to the religious life of ancient cultures. Vedic people are always firm about the existence of correlations between the visible and the invisible world, between ritual acts and natural phenomena or divine agency, between the celestial sphere and human existence. All murtis or vigrahas or bimbams, totems and fetishes are symbols. Wise persons see an invisible substance or reality in these objects. The image or symbol serves to provide a suitable form for reverence or worship which the naked eye is able to grasp. References to murtis begin to appear in the later part of Brahmanas and Kalpa Sutras. The Shringa (horn0 embodies the idea of strength

Karimbam Bhagavathi Theyyam – Information – Story

Karimbam Bhagavathi theyyam is a mother goddess theyyam worshipped during the annual theyyam thira kaliyattam festival at the New Mahe Peringadi Mangad Vaanukanda Kovilakam Bhagavathy temple. As per information, this is a manifestation of Mother Goddess Durga Devi (Bhagavathy). As per Karimbam Bhagavathi theyyam story she is worshipped to avoid all kinds of contagious diseases. It is believed that she appeared before an elderly member of a family and she was given a place or aaroodam in a sacred place. To honor her and to keep her pacified a theyyam was performed. Karimbam Bhagavathi theyyam is offered prayers for achieving peace, progress and prosperity. She is also worshipped for a healthy life and to find cure to incurable diseases. Karimbam Bhagavathi theyyam is annually performed from February 23 to February 25 at New Mahe Peringadi Mangad Vaanukanda Kovilakam Bhagavathy temple.

Saraswati Puja 2023 Dates - Significance of Goddess Saraswati Puja in Hinduism

Saraswati Puja is observed mainly during Basant Panchami and Navratri in a year. Saraswati Puja 2023 during Navratri it is from October 22 to October 24. Saraswati Puja is the worship of Hindu goddess of learning. In Kerala, Saraswati Puja is known as Vidyarambham and it is observed on the Vijayadasami day and in 2023, it is on October 24. Saraswati Puja During Navratri Saraswati Puja is also observed during Navratri (October – November) in North and western parts of India . The puja includes worship of a new idol of Goddess Saraswati and its final immersion in a water body. Saraswati Avahan – October 20 Saraswati Puja – October 21 Saraswati Balidan and Visaran –  October 22 Navratri Saraswati Puja in South India In South India during Navratri, Goddess Saraswati is worshipped on the last three days of Navratri. In 2023 is from October 22 to October 24. Puja Vyappu or the keeping of tools and implements for puja is on the evening of October 22.

Karimanal Chamundi Theyyam – Information – Story

Karimanal Chamundi theyyam is a ferocious theyyam performed in few temples in Kannur region of Kerala during annual Kaliyattam thira festival. As per information, this is a ferocious Mother Goddess who was given a place to satiate her so that she will not harm people, their property and livestock. Karimanal Chamundi theyyam story is that of her causing disturbance in a region with her supernatural powers and blood thirstiness. She is given a proper place in a kavu and a theyyam so that she will not harm people and other living beings. Karimanal Chamundi theyyam is worshipped for protection from enemies, to overcome fear of super natural beings like ghosts etc and for a healthy life. She is also worshipped to get strength to defeat enemies. Karimanal Chamundi theyyam is worshipped during the annual theyyam festival season at Peringome Peruvamba Vayanattukulavan temple (March 1 and March 2), Kannur Padiyottuchaal Nidumchaal Karimanal Chamundi temple (February 21 and February 22) and Ka

Gurukkal Theyyam – Story – Information - Gurikkal Theyyam

Gurikkal theyyam, or Gurukkal theyyam, is a popular theyyam performed during the annual theyyam thira kaliyattam festival in Kannur region of Kerala. As per information, this theyyam is that a great yogi who once lived in the region. Gurikkal theyyam story begins with the birth of Kunjiraman Yogi in a family of Yogis. He learnt all the sciences and Vedas in a young age and went on pilgrimage. He learnt Ashtanga Yoga vidya and became a true Yogi. He visited numerous places and learned new languages, various types of medicines and various sciences. Years later Kunjiraman Yogi returned to his native place. At this time, the ruler of the place, Kolamanan, was diagnosed with an incurable disease. The ruler tried all types of treatment but found no cure. Courtiers informed the king about Kunjiraman Yogi and he was summoned to the palace. Kunjiraman Yogi easily understood the disease and the reason and cure for it. He performed Mada Bali, Peeda Bali, Mukkudaram Gurusi and Kukkuda Bali. Soon

Karim Chamundi Theyyam – Story – Information – Karichamundi Theyyam

Karichamundi theyyam, or Karim Chamundi theyyam is a ferocious Vanadevata theyyam performed during the annual theyyam thira kaliyattam festival in Kannur and Kasaragod region of Kerala. As per information, this theyyam is that of a blood sucking forest dwelling goddess. The story of Karichamundi theyyam is that of Ali Mappila, a Muslim man searching for vayattatti or midwife to deliver his pregnant wife. Ali Mappila comes across a beautiful woman who agrees to perform the delivery. After an hour or so there was no sound from the house, Ali Mappila opened the door and was stunned to see the lady drinking blood from the stomach of his wife. Ali Mappila tries to kill the lady by striking on her head. She gives a wild shrill that causes panic in the region. She turns into a ferocious form and carries away Ali Mappila to a pala tree and sucks his blood. She then throws his body down. The goddess is not satisfied and creates havoc in the region. People are kidnapped and killed by her. The

Trayi – The Three Vedas Together

Trayi is the name of the three Vedas together. Rig Veda, Yajur Veda and Sama Veda are collectively referred to as trayi in Satapatha Brahmana. It is used in the same sense in the enumeration of the lore in the ethics of Kamandaka and in the lexicon of Amarasimha. Rig Veda has hymns glorifying the Vedic gods for the prosperity of the people, Yajur Veda supplies the details relating to the sacrifices and Sama Veda contains hymns mostly culled from Rig Veda to be sung in order to praise the gods and manes. Since the three Vedas are recognized as important in the performance of the srauta (Vedic0 and grihya (domestic rituals), Atharva Veda, consisting of hymns of nourishment and appeasement, and taken from Rig Veda, stands separate. Brahmais said to have milked the three Vedas from the three gods – Fire, Wind and Sun – to accomplish the rituals. The syllable om is said to be the essence the trayi. The priest has to learn the trayi and other lore from those who have mastered the three

Kari Gurikkal Theyyam – Story – Information

Kari Gurikkal Theyyam is a rare theyyam performed only in a couple of sacred places during the annual theyyam kaliyattam thira festival in Kannur region of Kerala. As per information, this theyyam is of powerful warrior and magician who had to knowledge to take forms of various animals. As per Kari Gurikkal theyyam, he was born in the pulaya community and therefore he could not learn kalaripayattu martial art. But he lied about this family and joined all the 18 kalari and became a highly proficient warrior. He also learned black magic and to change form. Once a local ruler was afflicted with mental disorder and the family of the ruler promised half of their property to Kari Gurukkal if he could cure the ruler. Kari Gurikkal cured the ruler but the family did not keep their promise. The family promised to give the property if he brought milk of a tigress and hair of a nari (tiger). Kari Gurikkal who knew how to take the form of animals informed his wife that he would be changing form

Karan Daivam Theyyam – Information – Story

Karan Daivam theyyam is a powerful male deity theyyam performed in many temples in Kannur region of Kerala during the annual theyyam kaliyattam thira festival. As per information, this theyyam is a manifestation of Kurma Avatar of Bhagavan Vishnu. Karan Daivam theyyam story is that of the divine being appearing before a grand old man and offering protection. It is believed that Karan theyyam has the power to cure 98 life-threatening diseases. Karan theyyam is performed in honor of this deity and the sacrifice he made. Karan Daivam theyyam has a unique head gear and holds a sword and a knife. The theyyam blesses devotees with protection, long life and health. He is also offered prayers for defeat of enemies and to overcome various kinds of fear. Karan Daivam theyyam is performed at Koyyam Munambu Kadavu Arayil chonnamma temple in Kannur (Feb 17 to Feb 19), Kannur Keecheri Puthiya Bhagavathy temple, Kodallur Palaprath Kavu Bhagavathy temple, Kannapuram Karankavu, Kalliasseri Puthiya Bh

Kara Gulikan – Information – Story

Kara Gulikan theyyam is a rare theyyam performed during the theyyam – kaliyattam – thira festival in Kannur and Kasaragod districts of Kerala. As per information, Kara Gulikan is one among the eight Gulikan theyyams performed in the tharavadu, kavu and temples in North Kerala. The story of Kara Gulikan theyyam is associated with Shiva annihilating Yama, the god of death, to protect Saint Markandeshwara, the ardent devotee of Shiva. With Yama disappeared from the universe there was no death. This caused immense problems in nature. When Shiva realized the mistake he gave birth to Kara Gulikan from the left thumb. He pressed the left thumb of his leg down and Kara Gulikan appeared holding Trishul and pasha or rope to tie souls. It is believed that Kara Gulikan keeps a track of all the good and bad deeds of a person. The theyyam has a ferocious mask and the body is covered in tender coconut leaves. The theyyam holds burning torch. The theyyam is offered worship for overcoming fear of d

Kappalathi Pothi Theyyam – Story – Information

Kappalathi Pothi is a female theyyam with a tragic story. The theyyam is a very rare theyyam and is performed during the annual theyyam thira kaliyattam festival in Kannur and Kasaragod regions of North Kerala. As per information, a female who met with a tragic end at the ends of her own family was honored later with a theyyam. The story of Kappalathi Pothi theyyam is that of Kumba Kappalathi venturing out of her village to watch Kaveri Vilakku Vela. She has seven brothers but when they went for the Vela they did not take her with them. But she followed them secretly but lost her away in between. She met a Mavilan who provided her with tender coconut water. She went with the Mavilan. The brothers started searching for their missing sister and few months later they found her to be pregnant in the colony of Mavilan. For marrying against their wish to a lower caste man, they cut her into pieces. The theyyam is performed in remembrance of this sacrifice.

Dreaming Of Kicking A Ball – Meaning

Dreaming of kicking a ball is a good sign as per dream meaning and interpretation. The dream means success or achievement. It also means freedom and joy and a period of tension free life. Dreams of kicking a ball mean you will soon achieve your goal through teamwork. It also means you will get relief from a tough work or situation after success. Dreaming of kicking a ball and it is coming back to you again and again means your attempts to get rid of something life will prove to be futile. It also means an old action of your returning back to haunt you. Dream of kicking a ball and you see other people around you means there will be happy occasion. You will get to be free with your friends or people you like. It also means you will get to hear happy news. Dreaming of kicking ball and you see strangers around means you will get to hear positive news. It also means defeat of your enemies. A team or something that you support will achieve victory. It also means glory and triumph as a

Dreaming Of 100 – Meaning

Dreaming of 100 is a positive sign as per dream meaning and interpretation. The dream means success and progress. But if for some reason you are seen crying or angry in the dream means failure beyond your imagination or total destruction of something you nurtured. Dreams of 100 and you are seen celebrating means victory. Dream of 100 and if you see the zeros disappearing then it is associated with bad luck and sudden of loss of something due to carelessness and overconfidence. It also means jealous friends or enemies will be very active. Dreaming of 100 and you see it flying around means you will have good opportunity but you will squander them due to procrastination or laziness. Dreams of 100 and you see friends and family members means celebration. It also means decision regarding ancestral wealth or your family might get honored. Dreaming of 100 and you see blood or dead people mean victory after a physical fight. It also means getting caught in gang war etc.

Bhagavad Gita Chapter X – Verse 1

Again, O mighty armed, listen to My supreme word, which, wishing your welfare, I declare to you, who are rejoiced (to hear Me). (Bhagavad Gita Chapter 10 – Verse 1). Sri Krishna’s words are nothing but the unsurpassed Truth. And Truth can never be heard too often. So, although the same Truth has been revealed by Sri Krishna again and again, once more, in His great compassion and love for Arjuna and for all humanity, He repeats it in a different way. It is because Bhagavan is ever watchful over His devotees and loves them so dearly that He never tires of teaching them. And to Arjuna, especially, Bhagavan is constantly giving advice because Arjuna received His words with such great joy. It is for that reason, says Sri Krishna, that He is teaching him. No teacher can give the best in Him unless He has disciples to appreciate and understand Him. When the disciples drink in the words of the guru as immortal nectar, then Truth flows from the teacher as from a perennial spring. The real g

Dreaming Of 1111 – Meaning

Dreaming of 1111 is an auspicious sign and good omen as per dream meaning and interpretation. The dream means you have divine blessing and luck is in your favor. You must make use of all the opportunities that you get in near future. Dreams of 1111 also mean there will be unity among family members and also among team members. You will also get opportunity to make fresh beginnings. You will show self assurance, honesty and courage when facing a problem. Dream of 1111 and you see angel or white light means you have the blessing of divine power or god. It is a good time to take risks and move ahead in life. Dreaming of 1111 and you see dark clouds or evil creatures means you will be misguided by pessimistic people. People will try to stop you from reaching your goal. The dream is asking you to stay away from negative minded people. Dreams of 1111 and you see someone you love means improvement in relationship. It also means help from people in authority.

Dreaming Of A Broken Zipper – Meaning

Dreaming of a broken zipper is a bad omen as per dream meaning and interpretation. The dream means you will face unexpected problems especially related to the malfunctioning of a part of cloths. It also means a new cloth causing embarrassment in public. Dreams of broken zipper and you wake up happy means you will realize the futility of something you had signed in for and will back out. It also means you realizing an important truth about a relationship. Dream of broken zippers and they are all of different colors means you will be forced to do something you do not like. It also means violence or physical attack on you during a party. Dreams of broken zipper and you are trying to collect it or fix it means you will waste money on spurious products of no value. It also means you will waste your time and energy on worthless projects or things. Dreaming of broken zipper and you see other people in the dream means embarrassment in public due to dress malfunction or makeup trouble. It

Dreaming Of Broken Glass In Your Mouth – Meaning

Dreaming of broken glass in your mouth is a bad omen as per dream meaning and interpretation. The dream means sudden and unexpected problems. Rash behavior by you causing problems to others. It also means lacking in proper thinking. You might also get poisoned. Your enemies will be very active. Dreams of broken glass in mouth mean someone whom you trusted might cause serious harm to your both physically, mentally and financially. Dream of broken glass in your mouth and there is blood and you are all alone means you will face near death experience. It also means getting abandoned or being all alone in an unknown place. Dreams of broken glass in your mouth and you are still moving about and healthy in the dream means you will be able to overcome a physical attack. It also means you will thwart attempts to weaken you. Dreaming of broken glass in your mouth and you are seen happy in the dream means you will do tricks to impress colleagues or children or a group. It also means learnin

25 January 2023 Tithi – Panchang – Hindu Calendar – Good Time – Nakshatra – Rashi

Tithi in Panchang – Hindu Calendar on Wednesday, 25 January 2023 – It is Shukla Paksha Chaturthi tithi or the fourth day during the waxing or light phase of moon in Hindu calendar and Panchang in most regions. It is Shukla Paksha Chaturthi tithi or the fourth day during the waxing or light phase of moon till 5:58 PM on January 25. Then onward it is Shukla Paksha Panchami tithi or the fifth day during the waxing or light phase of moon till 4:17 PM on January 26. Then onward (Time applicable in all north, south and eastern parts of India. All time based on India Standard Time.)  Good – Auspicious time on January 25, 2023 as per Hindu Calendar – There is no good and auspicious time on the entire day.  Nakshatra  – Satabhisha or Sadayam or Chathayam nakshatra till 2:46 AM on January 25. Then onward it is Purva Bhadrapada or Pooruruttathi nakshatra till 1:33 AM on January 26. (Time applicable in north, south and eastern parts of India).  In western parts of India (Maharashtra, Gu