A comparison between Parashurama and Sri Rama, two avatars of Bhagavan Vishnu, highlighting their key attributes, stories, and significance in Hindu mythology. Origins and Backgrounds Parashurama Birth and Lineage : Parashurama, also known as the sixth avatar of Vishnu, was born to Sage Jamadagni and Renuka. He belonged to the Bhrigu clan and is known for being a Brahmin warrior (Brahmakshatriya). Name Meaning : The name Parashurama means "Rama with an axe" (Parashu = axe). His birth name was Rama, but he gained the prefix "Parashu" after acquiring his divine weapon. Sri Rama Birth and Lineage : Sri Rama, the seventh avatar of Vishnu, was born to King Dasharatha and Queen Kausalya in the Ikshvaku dynasty. He is a central figure in the Ramayana epic. Name Meaning : The name Rama means "one who pleases" or "charming." It reflects his virtuous and endearing nature. Key Attributes Parashurama Attributes : Known for his warrior skills, asceticism, and...

The Indian philosophical landscape is rich and diverse, with numerous thinkers contributing to various schools of thought. Among them, Adi Shankaracharya and Bhartrihari are two towering figures whose teachings have had a profound impact on Indian philosophy. Shankaracharya is renowned for his exposition of Advaita Vedanta, a non-dualistic school of thought, while Bhartrihari is celebrated for his work in language philosophy, particularly through his seminal text, the "Vākyapadīya." Despite focusing on different areas, both philosophers address fundamental aspects of reality, knowledge, and the self. This comparison aims to highlight the core teachings of each philosopher and examine their similarities and differences. Adi Shankaracharya's Teachings Core Principles Advaita Vedanta : Non-Dualism (Advaita) : Shankaracharya's central tenet is that the ultimate reality (Brahman) is non-dual and indivisible. Everything perceived in the world of multiplicity is an illusion ...

Article received via e-mail from the organizers of the Hindu Baccalaureate Service. A unique one-of-a-kind in the world Hindu Baccalaureate Service was held at University of Nevada-Reno (UNR) on Saturday, April 11, 2009, where the graduating students touched the feet of a Swami (monk) to seek his blessings. Attended by Nevada ’s first lady Dawn Gibbons and Provost of UNR Marc Johnson, the Service at this top research university included a bhajan (devotional song) “Radhe Radhe Govinda” by famous performer Jim Eaglesmith and the graduating students chanted after him. Tilak (religious mark) was applied on students’ foreheads and they sought blessings from the burning flame, which was passed around. Organized by acclaimed Hindu statesman Rajan Zed and Indian Student Organization (ISO) at state-supported UNR established in 1864, it started and ended with ‘Gayatri Mantra’ (the most sacred verse from Rig-Veda, oldest scripture of the world composed around 1,500 BCE) recited b...

A comparison between the Thanjavur Brihadeeswarar Temple in India and the Pyramids of Egypt by examining their historical significance, architectural features, cultural context, and more. 1. Historical Significance Thanjavur Brihadeeswarar Temple: Location: Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India Period: Built between 1003 and 1010 AD during the Chola dynasty. Purpose: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple served as a major center of worship and cultural activities in South India. Cultural Impact: The temple stands as a testament to the Chola dynasty’s architectural, artistic, and engineering prowess. It symbolizes the zenith of South Indian temple architecture and the importance of Shaivism in the region. Pyramids of Egypt: Location: Giza, near Cairo, Egypt Period: Constructed during the Old Kingdom, primarily between 2580 – 2560 BC. Purpose: Built as tombs for pharaohs, primarily for Khufu (the Great Pyramid), Khafre, and Menkaure. Cultural Impact: The pyramids are iconic symbols of ancie...

In Hinduism, the leech, like many creatures, can hold various symbolic meanings and be part of different stories, often highlighting moral or spiritual lessons. While leeches are not as commonly mentioned as other animals, their symbolism can be inferred from broader Hindu texts and interpretations. Symbolism of the Leech Attachment and Desire : Leeches are often associated with attachment and desire due to their parasitic nature. In Hindu philosophy, attachment to material things and desires can be seen as draining one's spiritual energy, much like a leech drains blood. The leech, therefore, symbolizes the negative effects of excessive attachment and desire. Purification and Healing : Interestingly, in traditional medicine, including Ayurvedic practices, leeches have been used for their bloodletting properties, which were believed to cure various ailments. Thus, leeches can also symbolize purification and the removal of impurities, both physical and spiritual. A Story Featuring a ...

Goddess Javalajjihva or Jwala Jihva is a form of Goddess Durga which was responsible for the annihilation of Demon Raktabija. She is called Javalajjihva because in her heights of fury she opens her mouth to reveal a tongue which is in flames. It must be noted here that Javala Jihva is also one among the 108 names of Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Information of Goddess Javalajjihva is very rare as she is one of the lesser known forms of Goddess Durga. Goddess Javalajjihva is depicted as four armed and she carries sword and other weapons associated with Goddess Durga. The color of her body is red and she has serpents coiled around her body. She rides a tiger.

This is a collection of Vishu quotes and messages that I have read, received and some which I have sent. Vishu is the Zodiac Malayalam New Year in Kerala. Sending and wishing Vishu Ashamsagal to friends and relatives is a major highlight of the day. Vishu stands for new and fresh – Life is always new and fresh – Let us strive to make all days Vishu. Let us welcome this Vishu with great hope, eagerness and anticipation. Let us look forward to a plentiful year of joy, satisfaction, peace and prosperity. This is a time of new beginnings and for the celebration of life – Happy Vishu Let this Vishu bring peace and prosperity in the lives of all. Let us vow to take life in our stride this Vishu and make it tolerable as well as beautiful by accepting sorrow and happiness with sanity. May this Vishu be a good one for all of us. Happy Vishu! Wish you a happy and prosperous year with love, peace, hope and joy for the year ahead. Let this Vishu usher in a Good and Sweet Year, both materially...

In Hinduism, the concept of permanence or eternal truth is closely tied to the idea of self-realization. The teaching suggests that true permanence, which transcends the temporary and fleeting nature of worldly existence, can be attained only through understanding and realizing one's true self or Atman. Here is a more detailed explanation: Self-Realization in Hinduism Atman (The Self) : According to Hindu philosophy, each individual possesses an eternal soul or self, called the Atman. This Atman is fundamentally pure, immortal, and identical to Brahman, the ultimate reality or universal consciousness. Maya (Illusion) : The material world and the ego are seen as Maya, an illusion that distracts individuals from realizing their true nature. The transient pleasures and pains of worldly life are considered temporary and not the ultimate truth. Moksha (Liberation) : The goal of human life, as per Hindu teachings, is to attain Moksha, which is liberation from the cycle of birth and death...

This is a collection of favorite Tamil New Year Quotes, messages and greetings that we have read, received and some which we have sent and also some that we made for this Puthandu. Tamil New Year is observed on the first day of Chitirai month. People greet friends and relatives by saying Puthandu Vazhtukal. This is a time of new beginnings and for the celebration of life – Puthandu Vazhtukal Let this Puthandu bring peace and prosperity in the lives of all. May this Puthandu be a good one for all of us. Let this Puthandu usher in a Good and Sweet Year, both materially and spiritually. Puthandu Vazhtukal! Let this be a delightful year, filled with delightful things in each of its days. From this Puthandu let us go forward with great hope that all things will be possible. Puthandu Vazhtukal, let this year be filled with the things that are truly good. Puthandu stands for new and fresh – Life is always new and fresh – Let us strive to make all days...

The relationship between Arjuna and Chitrangada, as described in the Mahabharata, offers several profound lessons that are both timeless and relevant. Their story is not just a tale of love but also one that touches on themes of identity, transformation, and mutual respect. Here are some key lessons drawn from their relationship: 1. Acceptance of True Self Arjuna falls in love with Chitrangada, the warrior princess of Manipur, who is proud of her martial skills and responsibilities towards her kingdom. When Arjuna proposes to her, she insists on revealing her true identity and responsibilities. This teaches the importance of self-acceptance and honesty in relationships. Chitrangada does not hide her true self to conform to traditional expectations of femininity or to please Arjuna. Instead, she embraces who she is, and Arjuna accepts and loves her for it. 2. Respect for Individuality Arjuna respects Chitrangada's individuality and her duties as the ruler of her kingdom. He does not...