The Hindu teaching that "worldly experience does not disturb the peace of a man who has achieved self-realization" reflects a profound aspect of Hindu philosophy, particularly in the context of spirituality and inner peace. This concept is deeply rooted in the teachings of various Hindu scriptures, including the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads, and the works of sages and saints. Key Concepts: Self-Realization (Atma Jnana): Self-realization refers to the understanding and realization of one's true self (Atman) as distinct from the physical body and mind. It is the recognition of the Atman as being identical with Brahman, the ultimate reality or universal consciousness. Inner Peace: Inner peace is a state of mental and emotional calmness, with no anxiety, stress, or worry. In Hindu philosophy, it is often associated with the mind that is free from the turbulence caused by desires, fears, and attachments. Detachment (Vairagya): A person who has achieved self-realizat...

A Tribute to Hinduism: Thoughts and Wisdom spanning continents and time about India and her culture by Sushama Londhe is a collection of quotations on Hinduism and is the book format of the website www.hinduwisdom.info. About the Book by the author A Tribute to Hinduism: Thoughts and Wisdom spanning continents and time about India and her culture by Sushama Londhe is a collection of quotations from some of the world's greatest philosophers, thinkers, scientists, and leaders. The book asks us to take a fresh look at Hinduism and her many traditions through the eyes of these great personalities. Organized into 14 chapters including topics such as Science and Art, this hardbound book also contains beautiful photographs and illustrations. It is a great addition to any cultural library, a welcome supplement on any coffee table, or as a great gift for anyone who wishes to learn about their Indian heritage. The book includes a foreword by Dr. Subhash Kak of Oklahoma State U...

Mahatma Isardas was a prominent Bhakti poet known for his devotional and heroic compositions in Rajasthani. Born in 1539 CE in the village of Bhadresh near Barmer in Rajasthan, Isardas experienced early adversity with the loss of his parents. He was subsequently raised by his uncle, Asaji, who played a significant role in his upbringing and spiritual education. In 1560 CE, at the age of 21, Isardas embarked on a significant pilgrimage to Dwaraka with his uncle. During their return journey, they stopped at Jamnagar and visited the court of Raval Jam. Recognizing Isardas's prodigious talent, Raval Jam extended an invitation for him to stay and study in Jamnagar. This opportunity marked a turning point in Isardas's life, allowing him to further his education and deepen his devotional practice. Isardas's time in Jamnagar, where he spent 49 years, was marked by notable accomplishments. His dedication to learning and devotion to his spiritual path brought him considerable fam...

In Hinduism, the distinction between wisdom (jnana) and knowledge (vidya) is profound and essential for understanding the spiritual journey and the nature of the divine. These concepts are intertwined with the understanding of the ultimate reality (Brahman) and the manifestation of the divine in various forms. Wisdom (Jnana) in Hinduism Wisdom in Hinduism, often referred to as jnana, is the realization of the essence of Nirguna Nirakara Brahman. This refers to the understanding of the formless, attribute-less supreme reality. Brahman, in this context, is beyond all attributes (nirguna) and form (nirakara). Attaining wisdom means experiencing the ultimate truth and unity of all existence. It involves: Self-Realization: Recognizing the true nature of the self (Atman) as one with Brahman. This is a state of self-awareness where the individual ego dissolves, and one understands that their true essence is not different from the supreme reality. Transcendence: Going beyond the physi...

Indirasa, a devoted follower of Bhagavan Sri Krishna, made significant contributions to Nepali literature and spirituality through his poetic works. In 1827, he composed the revered "Gopikastuti," a devotional piece in Nepali verse that remains celebrated for its spiritual depth and literary merit. Background and Inspiration Indirasa's deep devotion to Sri Krishna inspired him to create the Gopikastuti, a work that intricately weaves the divine narratives of the tenth skandha (canto) of the Bhagavata Purana. This skandha is renowned for its portrayal of Krishna's enchanting pastimes in Vrindavan, particularly his interactions with the gopis (cowherd maidens), who are emblematic of ultimate devotion and surrender. Themes and Significance The Gopikastuti is a heartfelt hymn of praise, where Indirasa extols Sri Krishna as the supreme deity and the eternal protector of the universe. Through his verses, he captures the essence of Krishna's divine play (leela) a...

The ongoing Devaprasnam at the Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple to know about the divine will is creating more controversies. Some of the observations by the astrologers conducting the Devaprasnam are making the Hindu community a laughing-stock. The astrologers observed that the change in dress code initiated by the Guruvayur Devaswom Board to allow women wearing ‘churidar’ into the temple is not acceptable to Lord Guruvayurappan. Lord Krishna is not in favor of non-Hindus entering the temple . To allow or not to allow non-Hindu Lord Krishna devotees the Sree Krishna Temple is an ongoing debate in Kerala. The Devaprasnam also indicated that there were flaws in the constructions done in and around the temple by the Devaswom Board. O Krishna… Please Forgive Them... Update: Supreme Court of India Upholds Dress Code Change in Guruvayur Temple

The Nilotpala, or blue lotus, holds deep symbolic significance in Hindu mythology and iconography. As an elongated, blue lotus or lily, it carries with it a wealth of meanings, particularly when seen in the hands of Hindu gods and goddesses. Symbolism of Nilotpala in Hinduism Spiritual Enlightenment and Purity: The Nilotpala symbolizes purity and spiritual enlightenment. Like the lotus that remains unstained by the muddy water in which it grows, it represents spiritual elevation above worldly attachments and impurities. The blue color, often associated with divine energy and the infinite, further enhances this symbolism. Transcendence and Rebirth: The lotus, in general, is a symbol of rebirth and the cyclical nature of life, owing to its blooming cycle which involves closing at night and reopening at dawn. This cyclical nature aligns with Hindu beliefs in reincarnation and the eternal soul. The blue lotus, in particular, emphasizes transcendence and the journey towards higher con...

Hanuman, Jambavan, Angada, and the other vanaras embarked on their mission to find Sita, heading south as directed. Their search spanned a month, and despite their relentless efforts, Sita remained elusive. Exhausted and disheartened, they eventually stumbled upon a small, peculiar pond. Despite the absence of water, the air was filled with the chirping of numerous birds. Curiosity piqued, the vanaras decided to investigate this anomaly. They approached a tall tree near the pond and climbed it, hoping to gain a better vantage point. From atop the tree, they discovered a mysterious and foreboding dark tunnel. Despite initial hesitations, the urgency of their mission pushed them to venture into the tunnel. As they navigated the tunnel, it was pitch black, forcing them to feel their way through the darkness. The tunnel seemed endless, and the vanaras grew increasingly thirsty. When they expressed their concerns, Hanuman reassured them, urging them to press on. After what felt like a...

Construction of Berlin ’s first Hindu Temple , the Sri Ganesha Temple , will begin on Sunday, November 4, 2007 at ‘ Hasenheide Park ’ in Neukolln District of Berlin, Germany. This is the second Hindu Temple in Germany and will cater to 6000 Hindus in Berlin and when completed, the temple will be the second largest Hindu temple in Europe . The estimated cost of the Sri Ganesha Temple project is around €850,000 and is financed entirely by donations. Below is a model of the proposed temple. The address of the Berlin Sri Ganesha Temple: Sri Ganesha Hindu Temple Hasenheide 108 10967 Berlin Website: www.hindutempelberlin.de/english/main_en.htm

A collection of quotes on Mahabharata The Mahabharata, which covers the widest canvas of life, offers rich dividends in terms of guidance on worldly life and the intercession of divine grace in the case of those who do not swerve from Dharma. The epic takes devotees through an illuminating journey and finely distinguishes the laws of virtue through the characters who are caught in the dilemma of treading the fine line between right and wrong. In doing so, this great epic serves as an operating manual for one's life. Every verse of the epic is instructive and just as how one cannot plumb the ocean's depths, so too can none quantify the extent of benefit to be derived by devotees. A man's undoing in this world is his attachment to all that is material, transitory and perishable. Even the most learned fail to be guided by the principle that nothing accompanies him from this world except his deeds, on the day of reckoning. The Virata chapter in the Mahabharata drives home the...