"Maya is not a theory; it is simply a statement of facts about the universe as it exists." — Swami Vivekananda (The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda, 2.104-06) This profound assertion by Swami Vivekananda invites us to reconsider our everyday experience of the world. Rather than viewing maya as an abstract hypothesis or a speculative idea, Vivekananda emphasizes that it reflects the intrinsic nature of the universe—a dynamic interplay of reality and illusion, substance and appearance. Let’s delve deeper into the meaning, symbolism, and enduring significance of this teaching. Understanding Maya: The Veil of Illusion and the Nature of Reality 1. Maya as the Fabric of Experience: In Hindu philosophy, maya is often described as the veil or power that creates the appearance of the material world. It does not imply that the world is unreal in an absolute sense, but that its true nature is far more complex than our immediate perceptions suggest. The physical world, with its myr...

When Adharma Must Be Destroyed: Lessons from Rama and Maricha In the epic tradition of India, the victory of dharma (righteousness) over adharma (unrighteousness) is a recurring theme. The principle that “an enemy who follows adharma should not be spared” underlines the moral conviction that once the path of evil is chosen, compassion must yield to justice. Sri Rama’s early encounters in the Ramayana illustrate both the necessity of confronting adharma decisively and the pitfalls of mercy when applied without discernment. His sparing of the demon Maricha, despite having the chance to eliminate him along with his mother Tadaka and brother Subahu, had far-reaching consequences.  The Tale of Tadaka, Subahu and Maricha In the Bala Kanda of the Valmiki Ramayana, King Janaka’s yajna (sacrificial ritual) at Mithila is threatened by foul-mouthed demons Subahu and his mother Tadaka, who shower the offerings and priests with filth. Desperate, Sage Vishwamitra turns to Prince Rama, then st...

Tithi in Panchang – Hindu Calendar on Thursday, May 8 2025 – It is Shukla Paksha Ekadashi tithi or the eleventh day during waxing or light phase of moon in Hindu calendar and Panchang in most regions. It is Shukla Paksha Ekadashi tithi or the eleventh day during waxing or light phase of moon till 1 :42 PM on May 8. Then onward it is Shukla Paksha Dwadashi tithi or the twelfth day during waxing or light phase of moon till 3 :15 PM on May 9. (Time applicable in all north, south and eastern parts of India. All time based on India Standard Time.)  Good – Auspicious time on May 8, 2025 as per Hindu Calendar – Good and auspicious time after 12:29 PM.  Nakshatra  – Uttara Phalguni or Uthram nakshatra till 10:12 PM on May 8. Then onward it is Hasta or Atham nakshatra on the full day on May 9 and till 12:28 AM on May 10. (Time applicable in north, south and eastern parts of India).  In western parts of India (Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, north Karnataka and south Raj...

Kubera, the ancient deity revered as the lord of wealth and the guardian of treasures, is known by many names—each reflecting a unique aspect of his divine character and his multifaceted role in the cosmic order. His epithets, such as Alakadhipa , Dhanada , Dhanapati , Ishasakhi , Mayuraja , Naravahana , Nidhipa , Paulastya , Rakshasendra , Rakshasadhipati , Ratnagarbha , Vaishravana , Vittapati , Yakshadhipa , and Yaksharaja , are more than mere titles; they are symbolic narratives that weave together mythology, spirituality, and human aspirations for prosperity and protection. In this exploration, we delve into the symbolism embedded in these names, the stories and legends surrounding Kubera, and the ways in which his manifold aspects continue to influence cultural and religious thought. The Divine Repository of Wealth Dhanada, Dhanapati, and Vittapati – The Bestowers and Lords of Wealth Among Kubera’s most celebrated names are Dhanada (giver of wealth), Dhanapati (lord of wealth),...

Throughout human history, the nature of divinity has often been a subject of deep contemplation and debate. In many traditions, particularly in the Abrahamic faiths, there exists an image of a stern deity who dispenses justice with a heavy hand. However, Hindu philosophy offers a transformative perspective: God is not inherently cruel; rather, it is our limited and sometimes distorted understanding of the divine cosmic order that leads us to perceive suffering, hardship, and the consequences of karma as acts of cruelty. This article delves into the meaning, symbolism, and teachings of this perspective within Hinduism, drawing upon ancient scriptures, the insights of revered sages and modern gurus, and the relevance of these teachings in our contemporary lives. The Divine Cosmic Order and the Illusion of Cruelty At the heart of Hindu thought is the recognition of an all-pervading cosmic order, or dharma , that governs every aspect of existence. This cosmic principle is not about arbitra...

A Comparison Between Adi Shesha In Hinduism And Nuwa (Chinese) Across the mythologies of the world, serpents and dragon‑like beings occupy a place of profound significance. In Hinduism, Adi Shesha—often simply called Shesha or Ananta—reigns as the infinite cosmic serpent, the bed upon which Lord Vishnu rests between cycles of creation. In Chinese tradition, Nuwa emerges as the motherly creator goddess, depicted with a human upper body and a serpent’s lower half, responsible for fashioning humanity and repairing the heavens. Though arising in vastly different cultural and geographical contexts, these two figures share symbolic resonances even as they diverge in origin, function, and devotional followings.  Mythological Origins and Textual Roots Adi Shesha in Hindu Scripture Adi Shesha’s earliest mentions appear in Vedic and Puranic literature. His name—literally “first remainder” or “that which remains”—underscores his role as the ever‑enduring foundation of cosmic order. Descrip...

Kshemendra: The Multifaceted Scholar and Literary Maestro of Medieval Kashmir Kshemendra, an eminent scholar and philosopher of the 11th century CE, occupies a prominent place in the annals of Sanskrit literature. Born in Kashmir around 990 CE into a devout Shaiva family, Kshemendra emerged as a polymath whose works traversed the boundaries of religious devotion, mythological narration, social satire, and philosophical discourse. Over the course of his prolific career, he composed more than forty works that not only celebrated the divine but also offered incisive commentary on the social and cultural fabric of his time. This article explores his biography, literary contributions, and enduring legacy in both historical and modern contexts. Early Life and Background Kshemendra was born into a family with strong religious and intellectual traditions. His lineage is traced through his father, Prakashendra, and his grandfather, Sindhu, both of whom were likely influential in shaping his ear...

Embracing the Moment: The Story of King Janaka and the Yogi’s Wake-Up Call From time immemorial, the sages and kings of ancient India have illuminated pathways of wisdom for seekers of truth. Among these luminous figures stands King Janaka of Mithila, celebrated both as a sovereign ruler and an enlightened sage—a Rajarishi —who embodies the paradox of worldly power and inner freedom. This tale, often recounted in the halls of philosophy and spiritual instruction, reminds us that true mastery lies not in shunning the world but in fully inhabiting each moment without fear or attachment. The Arrival of the Yogi A renowned yogi, steeped in ascetic discipline and versed in sacred texts, heard of Janaka’s unique reputation: a king who reigned righteously yet remained inwardly detached, untouched by the lure of luxury. Eager to witness this living contradiction, the yogi journeyed across dusty plains and winding roads to the gates of Mithila. He expected to find a hermit clad in tattered r...

In the ancient, salt-kissed town of Poompuhar—once a thriving seaport on the Coromandel Coast of Tamil Nadu—stands a timeless monument to devotion and divine mystery: the Poompuhar Sri Pallavaneeswarar Temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is revered here as Sri Pallavaneeswarar (or Sri Pallavanathar), this sacred shrine is not merely an architectural marvel but a living chronicle of legends, spiritual awakenings, and the eternal interplay between the mortal and the divine. The temple, facing the radiant glow of the rising sun, welcomes pilgrims with its two tranquil corridors and a majestic five-tiered Rajagopuram that soars like a celestial ladder towards the heavens. A Sanctuary of Divine Manifestation At the heart of the temple lies a self-manifested (Swayambhu Murti) Shiva Lingam—a symbol of Lord Shiva’s omnipresence and his eternal nature. In the stillness of the sanctum, where incense smoke mingles with whispered prayers, devotees find a tangible connection to the divine. The Lin...