The Ass-Drawn Chariot: Unveiling the Tribal Symbolism of Pushpaka Vimana The Pushpaka Vimana holds a celebrated place in Hindu sacred narratives, most famously depicted in the Ramayana as the magnificent self-moving aerial vehicle that carried Bhagavan Sri Rama from Lanka back to Ayodhya. However, in the rich tapestry of central Indian tribal traditions, this celestial conveyance takes on a dramatically different form—not as a mechanical flying palace, but as a humble chariot drawn by donkeys or asses. This alternative interpretation reveals profound layers of symbolism that speak to different cultural perspectives within the broader Hindu tradition. The Classical Narrative In Valmiki's Ramayana, the Pushpaka Vimana originally belonged to Kubera, the god of wealth, before being seized by Ravana. After Rama's victory over Ravana, Vibhishana offered this wondrous vehicle to facilitate Rama's return journey. The Ramayana describes it as a vehicle that could travel at the sp...

In the rich tapestry of Hindu rituals, the samskaras—sacraments marking significant milestones in an individual’s life—hold a deeply symbolic and transformative role. Among these, Keshanta , also known as godana (derived from go , meaning hair), is a ritual that involved the shaving of the head and other parts of the body such as the chin and armpits. Traditionally performed upon reaching the age of 16 or just before marriage, Keshanta symbolized not merely a physical act of hair removal but also a profound transition from one phase of life to another. Although this ritual has gradually faded from everyday practice in modern times, its historical, cultural, and spiritual significance continues to offer insights into the evolution of Hindu rites and their meanings. Historical Context and Origins Hinduism is renowned for its elaborate system of samskaras—rites of passage that guide an individual through the different stages of life, from conception to cremation. These rituals served to ...

Sage Markandeya's Wisdom to Lakshman: The Nature of Mind and Sin in the Skanda Purana The Skanda Purana, one of the eighteen Mahapuranas in Hindu tradition, contains numerous accounts that illuminate the complexities of human psychology and spiritual development. Among these is a remarkable narrative from the Nagara Kanda section, which recounts an extraordinary moment of crisis in the life of Lakshmana, the devoted brother of Lord Rama. This account offers profound insights into the nature of the mind, the distinction between thought and action, and the transformative power of repentance. The Crisis at Gokarna During Pitru Kalpa Theertha, Rama decided to perform shraddha ceremonies to honor his departed father, King Dasharatha. These rituals hold immense significance in Hindu tradition, as they represent the sacred duty of children toward their ancestors. However, domestic discord emerged when Sita had a disagreement with Rama and withdrew into the forest, leaving Lakshmana to ...

The Mahabharata: Tagore's Testament to India's Greatest Educational Heritage Rabindranath Tagore, India's first Nobel laureate and one of its most profound thinkers, once proclaimed, "Without reading the Mahabharata, no one's education in our country is complete." This powerful statement from a man who bridged Eastern wisdom and Western modernity speaks volumes about the enduring significance of this ancient epic. Far from being merely an old tale, the Mahabharata represents a comprehensive manual for human existence, encompassing every conceivable aspect of life, morality, duty, and spiritual evolution. The Universe Within a Single Text The Mahabharata is often called the fifth Veda, indicating its sacred status alongside the four primary Vedas. Comprising approximately 100,000 verses, it stands as the longest epic poem ever written. The ancient saying goes, "What is found here may be found elsewhere, but what is not found here cannot be found anywhe...

Seeking Happiness Outside Is Like Waiting For Sunshine Inside a Deep Cave: A Journey to Inner Illumination In our modern era—dominated by the relentless pursuit of success, material wealth, and external validation—the ancient Hindu adage, “Seeking happiness outside is like waiting for sunshine inside a deep cave,” resonates with profound truth. This metaphor vividly reminds us that the radiant joy and peace we seek are not to be found in the transient world of external objects or fleeting pleasures. Instead, true happiness is an inner light, a divine radiance waiting patiently to be acknowledged and nurtured within us. Understanding the Deep Cave Imagine a deep, dark cave. Outside its cavernous mouth, the sun shines brightly, yet no matter how intently one stares at that distant source of light, the cave’s depths remain shrouded in darkness. This is the essence of the metaphor. When we seek happiness solely in the external world—through accolades, wealth, relationships, or possessions...

Tithi in Panchang – Hindu Calendar on Tuesday, February 24 2026 – It is Shukla Paksha Saptami and Ashtami tithi or the seventh and eighth day during the waxing or light phase of moon in Hindu calendar and Panchang in most regions. It is Shukla Paksha Saptami tithi or the seventh day during the waxing or light phase of moon till 7 :09 AM on February 24. Then onward it is Shukla Paksha Ashtami tithi or the eighth day during the waxing or light phase of moon till 4 :47 AM on February 25. (Time applicable in all north, south and eastern parts of India. All time based on India Standard Time.)  Good – Auspicious time on February 24, 2026 as per Hindu Calendar – There is no good and auspicious time on the entire day.  Nakshatra  – Krittika or Karthigai or Kartika Nakshatra till 3:16 PM on February 24. Then onward it is Rohini Nakshatra till 4:53 PM on February 25. (Time applicable in north, south and eastern parts of India).  In western parts of India (Maharasht...

A Comparative Study Between Hindu Goddess Ganga and Amphitrite in Greek Mythology The Hindu Goddess Ganga and Amphitrite from Greek mythology are both revered as water deities in their respective cultures. However, while their domains and symbols are deeply connected to water, their roles, influence, and depictions reflect the broader beliefs and values of Hindu and Greek mythologies. Overview of Ganga in Hindu Mythology Ganga is the personification of the sacred river Ganges, which is considered the holiest river in Hinduism. According to Hindu mythology, Ganga descended from the heavens to Earth to purify the souls of humanity and liberate them from the cycle of rebirth (Samsara). The river Ganga is revered as a motherly figure and plays a crucial role in the salvation of souls in Hindu culture. Key Facts about Ganga: Role : Goddess of the Ganges River, purifier, and deliverer from sins. Depictions : Ganga is often shown riding a crocodile (Makara), holding a water pot (symbolizing ...

Dates of important upcoming festivals and fasting associated with Hinduism in April 2026 – based on major Hindu calendars and Panchang used in India. The festivals, Vrats and ritual days are based on Indian Standard Time (IST). April 1 – Renuka Chaturdashi April 1 – Panguni Uthiram April 1 – Purnima Vrat April 2 – Hanuman Jayanti – Purnima April 3 – Vaishakh month begins in North India April 3 – Vaishakh Snan begins April 5 – Sankashti Chaturthi vrat moon rise time is at 9:45 PM April 8 – Kokila Sashti Vrat April 10 – Kalashtami – Sheetala Ashtami in some regions April 13 – Ekadasi Fasting – Vallabhacharya Jayanti April 14 – Mesha Sankranti 11:45 AM April 14 – Kharmas ends April 14 – Tamil New Year – Baisakhi April 14 – Chithirai Masam begins in Tamil Calendar. April 14 – Meda Masam begins in Kerala Malayalam Calendar April 15 – Vishu (Zodiac New Year in Kerala) April 15 – Maha Vishuba Sankranti – Pana Sankranti April 15 - Bengali New Year – Assamese New Year April ...

Ganesha and His Mouse: The Divine Control of the Restless Mind In Hindu tradition, Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity revered as the remover of obstacles and the lord of new beginnings, is depicted seated majestically upon a tiny mouse. This seemingly paradoxical pairing—a massive, powerful deity riding upon one of the smallest creatures—contains profound spiritual wisdom. The mouse, known in Sanskrit as Mushika or Akhu , serves as more than merely a vehicle or vahana ; it represents the restless human mind that constantly scurries from one desire to another, never finding lasting satisfaction. The Symbolism of the Mouse The mouse embodies several characteristics that mirror the untamed human mind. Just as a mouse darts frantically from place to place, nibbling at whatever it finds, gnawing through obstacles, and constantly seeking food, the human mind similarly jumps from thought to thought, craving one object after another. This creature of the night operates in darkness, m...

  Kena Upanishad: The Talavakara Upanishad – A Timeless Beacon of Metaphysical Inquiry The Kena Upanishad, one of the principal Upanishads of ancient India, occupies a revered position in the canon of Vedic literature. Known also as the Talavakara Upanishad, its dual nomenclature encapsulates both its linguistic and historical heritage. On one hand, its title “Kena” derives from the very first word of the text—“kena,” meaning “by whom” or “by what”—which invites the reader into an inquiry into the ultimate cause behind existence. On the other, the appellation “Talavakara” roots the text in a particular Vedic tradition associated with the Sama Veda, thereby highlighting its rich ritualistic and musical origins. This article delves into the layers of meaning behind this dual identity, the significance of its historical context, the symbolism woven into its verses, the evolution of its practices, and its enduring relevance in modern spiritual discourse. The Dual Identity: "Kena"...