Tithi in Panchang – Hindu Calendar on Wednesday, August 20 2025 – It is Krishna Paksha Dwadashi tithi or the twelfth day during the waning or dark phase of moon in Hindu calendar and Panchang in most regions. It is Krishna Paksha Dwadashi tithi or the twelfth day during the waning or dark phase of moon till 2 :02 PM on August 20. Then onward it is Krishna Paksha Trayodashi tithi or the thirteenth day during the waning or dark phase of moon till 12 :36 PM on August 21. (Time applicable in all north, south and eastern parts of India. All time based on India Standard Time.)  Good – Auspicious time on August 20, 2025 as per Hindu Calendar –Good and auspicious time till 1:48 PM.  Nakshatra  – Ardra or Arudhara or Thiruvathira nakshatra till 2:17 AM on August 20. Then onward it is Punarvasu or Punartham or Punarpoosam nakshatra till 1:30 AM on August 21. (Time applicable in north, south and eastern parts of India).  In western parts of India (Maharashtra, Gujar...

The Tragic Tale of Jambukumara: A Story of Broken Promises and Divine Justice Jambukumara's story is mainly part of numerous folk versions especially in South India. In the ancient chronicles of Hindu scriptures, the story of Jambukumara stands as a poignant tale of family betrayal, divine intervention, and ultimate justice. Born to Surpanakha, the formidable sister of the demon king Ravana, and Vidyutjihva, a powerful Asura warrior, Jambukumara entered the world during tumultuous times when the very foundations of Lanka's throne were being challenged. Vidyutjihva, whose name literally means "lightning-tongued," was not merely Surpanakha's consort but a significant force within the Asura hierarchy. His growing influence and the loyalty he commanded among certain sections of the demon army posed a potential threat to Ravana's absolute authority. The demon king, ever vigilant about his sovereignty, perceived this as an existential challenge to his rule. The U...

Seeking Divine Wisdom in the Digital Age: The Safety of Religious Guidance from AI In an era where artificial intelligence permeates every aspect of human life, from healthcare decisions to financial planning, a profound question emerges: How safe is it to seek religious guidance from AI? This question becomes particularly complex when viewed through the lens of Hinduism, one of the world's oldest and most diverse spiritual traditions. As devotees navigate the digital landscape seeking answers to their deepest spiritual questions, understanding the capabilities and limitations of AI in religious matters becomes crucial for maintaining authentic spiritual practice. The Nature of Religious Knowledge in Hindu Tradition Hindu dharma encompasses a vast repository of wisdom spanning thousands of years, including the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, Itihasas like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and countless commentaries by revered acharyas. This knowledge system recognizes different levels o...

The Burden of the Arms Within: Hindu Insights on Fear, Ego, and the Path to Harmony Humanity today stands at an inflection point: we possess enough weapons to destroy the earth a hundred times over, yet our true enemies remain the unseen forces of fear, mistrust, ego, and hatred within our own hearts. Despite phenomenal advances in science and technology, the inner turmoil of the human spirit persists unhealed. Drawing on the rich heritage of Hindu thought—from the ancient Mahabharata to the teachings of modern saints—this article explores the root of our collective malaise and offers a timeless prescription for peace and unity. The Problem: Weapons Outside, Turmoil Within The modern arsenal of nations is a stark reminder of our capacity for destruction. Yet far more alarming is the arsenal we carry inside: fear that breeds suspicion, ego that justifies aggression, and hatred that blinds us to our shared humanity. In the Mahabharata, Duryodhana’s envy and pride kindle a war that dev...

Agnyadhana, also known as agnyadheya (or simply adhana or adheya), is an ancient Vedic fire ritual of profound significance. Literally, it means the placing of burning coals for the generation of the garhapatya fire. This ritual is not just a mere act of igniting fire but a complex and symbolic ceremony that underscores various aspects of Vedic culture and spirituality. Significance of Agnyadhana Ritual Purity and Transition : Agnyadhana signifies the transition of an individual from the household to a more spiritually focused stage of life. It is a rite of passage that marks the readiness of a married adult to undertake significant spiritual responsibilities. Cosmic Harmony : The ritual is believed to align the individual's life with cosmic principles. The timing of the ceremony, dictated by nakshatras (stars or asterisms), reflects an attempt to harmonize human activities with celestial cycles. Community and Priesthood : By involving multiple priests (rtvigvarana), the ritual emp...

Jainism and Buddhism have played pivotal roles in shaping the social, cultural, and ethical landscape of ancient India, particularly through the promotion of vegetarianism. These two religions, emerging around the same era, profoundly influenced the ethos of non-violence (ahimsa) and compassion towards all living beings, which eventually extended to dietary practices. This article explores the historical roots, importance, and influence of Jainism and Buddhism on vegetarianism in ancient India, how their impact evolved over time, and examines lesser-known insights into their contributions. Historical Roots and Emergence Jainism: The Ancient Path of Non-Violence Jainism is one of the oldest religions in India, with its origins tracing back to pre-Vedic times. The teachings of Mahavira, who is traditionally regarded as the 24th Tirthankara (spiritual teacher), formalized many of the Jain principles. Mahavira’s emphasis on ahimsa—or non-violence—became the cornerstone of Jain philosoph...

Agrayana, also known as Navayajna or Navasasyeshti, is an ancient Hindu agricultural rite where the first fruits or newly harvested grains are offered to Vedic deities before consumption. This custom underscores the deep connection between agricultural practices and religious observances in Hinduism. Historical Context and Procedure In ancient Hindu society, the rite of Agrayana was an essential ritual performed by those who had ceremonially established the Vedic fires, known as ahitagni. The rite was particularly significant for the first fruits of vrihi (rice), yava (barley), and shyamaka (a type of yellow grain). Other grains, vegetables, or fruits did not necessitate this specific rite. The ritual involved several key steps: Preparation of Oblations : Cooked food from the newly harvested grains is prepared. Offering to Deities : Oblations are offered to deities such as Indra and Agni, who are central figures in the Vedic pantheon and associated with rain, harvest, and fire. Symboli...

Angarak Ganesh Chaturthi is an auspicious day dedicated to Lord Ganesha in a traditional Hindu calendar.  Angarika Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 date is August 12.  Angarika Chaturthi is observed when the monthly Sankashti Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday. The day is then considered highly auspicious and great importance to Ganpati devotees. Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat is observed on the fourth day during the waning phase of the moon (Krishna Paksha) or fourth day after the full moon. August 12, 2025 moonrise time or chandrodaya is at 9:13 PM (fasting breaking time). Angarak, or Angarika, means fire and the name because Tuesday or Mangalwar is governed by Hindu God Mangal. Angarak Yog is considered highly auspicious. The fast performed on the day is meritorious. It helps in fulfilling wishes and in alleviating financial problems. Above all prayers and contemplation on the day helps a devotee to remove ignorance and attain moksha. Angaraki Sankashti Chaturthi Mantra ॐ   चन...

Mandana Mishra is a significant yet enigmatic figure in early medieval Indian philosophy, whose life and works have been the subject of extensive debate among scholars and traditional hagiographers alike. Traditionally dated to the period circa 750–800 CE, his intellectual journey is intertwined with two of India’s most influential philosophical streams: Mimamsa and Advaita Vedanta. Over the centuries, traditional biographies—most notably the Shankaravijaya of Madhava Vidyaranya (circa 1350 CE)—have portrayed him as a distinguished disciple of the renowned Mimamsa scholar Kumarila Bhatta. However, the narrative surrounding his life, scholarly orientation, and subsequent transformation has become a fascinating topic of inquiry, as modern scholars critically reassess the evidence and suggest alternative interpretations of his contributions. Historical and Philosophical Context During the early medieval period, India was a vibrant hub of intellectual and philosophical ferment. The Mimam...

Even God Cannot Satisfy the Human Greed: A Path to Contentment Greed, the insatiable desire for more, permeates every corner of modern life. Whether in the endless chase for wealth, status or material comforts, human hankering seems boundless. Ancient Hindu wisdom warns us that even divine powers cannot quench this thirst. This article examines the nature of greed through teachings of the Vedas, Upanishads and epics like the Mahabharata, drawing on saints’ insights. We will define the problem, offer solutions grounded in scripture, explore modern relevance, and chart a path toward inner contentment. The Nature of Human Greed In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna observes that desire and anger arise from attachment and that these passions bind the soul to the cycle of birth and death. In Chapter Two, Verse 62, he warns: “From attachment, desire is born; from desire, anger arises.” This sequence underlines how craving—once ignited—escalates beyond control. Adishankaracharya, the great teach...