Goddess Sherawali, also known as Sheranwali or Sherawali Mata, is a fierce form of the Hindu goddess Durga. She is often depicted riding a lion (or tiger), symbolizing power, courage, and strength. Her stories are an integral part of Hindu mythology and are celebrated in various festivals, most notably during Navratri. Here are some of the significant stories associated with Goddess Sherawali: 1. Battle with Mahishasura One of the most famous stories of Goddess Sherawali is her battle with the demon Mahishasura. Mahishasura, a powerful demon with the ability to change his form, had obtained a boon that he could not be killed by any man or god. This made him nearly invincible, and he began to terrorize the heavens and the earth. The gods, unable to defeat him, combined their powers to create a powerful goddess, Durga. She was endowed with the weapons of all the gods and mounted on a lion, she fought Mahishasura for nine days and nights. On the tenth day, she finally defeated him, which ...

This version of the Mahabharata for young readers in English is written by Namita Gokhale, a multi-faceted Indian novelist and publisher. The book is published by Puffin Books, publishers of fiction, picture books and children's classics. A major highlight of this Mahabharat for Children is the illustrations by painter and animator Sudhasattwa Basu. The beauty of this version of the Mahabharata is that it really caters to children by keeping the narration smooth and simple. There is a nice little explanation of the cycles of times in the beginning. What makes the book a more interesting read is that the author does not forget about the weaknesses in Pandavas and points out the flaws in their characters along with that of the Kauravas. Numerous stories that are part of Mahabharata are also mentioned in the book. The Bhagavad Gita and the other philosophical discussions are explained in simple language. Puffin Mahabharata Author: Namita Gokhale Published in India by P...

Sri Ramakrishna Mission, established by Swami Vivekananda in 1897, is often overshadowed by the more widely recognized Missionaries of Charity founded by Mother Teresa in 1950. However, a closer examination reveals that the Sri Ramakrishna Mission has been silently but significantly contributing to philanthropy on a grand scale, often surpassing the work of the Missionaries of Charity in both scope and impact. Historical Background and Philosophy Sri Ramakrishna Mission : Founded by Swami Vivekananda with the inspiration of his guru, Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. Focuses on the principle of "Atmano mokshartham jagat hitaya cha" – for one's own salvation and for the welfare of the world. Emphasizes holistic development, combining spiritual growth with social service. Missionaries of Charity : Founded by Mother Teresa with the mission of serving "the poorest of the poor." Primarily focuses on charitable works, especially in the areas of healthcare and assistance to...

Sisters, Pooja Bhattacharya and Swastika Bhattacharya of Bhubaneswar, have won the grand prize for a rocket design-based on Orissan temple architecture and was adjudged the best at the space settlement design contest organized by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), US. The space vehicle is laid out in a triangular manner called Triratha as per ancient Kalingan Temple Style found in Orissa. Minati Singha writes in Times of India Pooja Bhattacharya and Swastika Bhattacharya of Bhubaneswar have won the grand prize from among 309 projects submitted by 875 students. These projects were sponsored by 96 teachers from across the world. Students from US, Bulgaria , Canada , China , Dubai , UAE, India , Nepal , Pakistan , Romania , Singapore , Sri Lanka , Thailand and Uruguay participated in the competition. Puja Bhattacharya is a Plus Two second year student in BJB Junior College in Bhubaneswar and her younger sister, Swastika is a student of Class X at...

The Brahmo Samaj and the Ramakrishna Mission are two prominent religious and social reform movements in India that emerged in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Both have had significant impacts on Indian society, culture, and spirituality. Here’s a detailed comparison between the two: Founders and Origins Brahmo Samaj: Founder: Raja Ram Mohan Roy. Founded: 1828. Origin: Bengal, India. Purpose: To reform Hinduism and promote monotheism, rationalism, and social reforms such as the abolition of sati (the practice of widow immolation), child marriage, and caste discrimination. Ramakrishna Mission: Founder: Swami Vivekananda (disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa). Founded: 1897. Origin: Bengal, India. Purpose: To propagate the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna, promote spiritual enlightenment, and engage in social service activities. Philosophical and Theological Perspectives Brahmo Samaj: Theology: Monotheism; belief in a single, formless God. Scriptures: Emphasizes the Vedas and ...

More than 150,000 participated in the ‘Annamayya Laksha Gala Sankeerthana’ at Parade Grounds in Secunderabad ( Hyderabad ) in Andhra Pradesh on Sunday, May 10, 2009 to create Guinness World Record for Mass Choir. The earlier record was made in 1937 when 60,000 people participated in a mass choir of a single song in Germany . The disciplined crowd of 150,000 sang seven compositions of Sri Tallapaka Annamacharya (1408-1503) the mystic saint composer of the 15th century who is the earliest known musician of South India to compose songs called ‘ Sankirtanas’ in praise of Lord Venkateswara of Tirumala Tirupati. The New Indian Express reports From the afternoon itself, people started pouring into the grounds. From children and youngsters to the aged, they came from various parts of the country and the world. More than creating a record, their sheer passion for Annamacharya brought them to the venue. For several weeks they had been practicing the seven sankirtans. Noted Annam...

Sage Bhrigu is a prominent figure in Hindu mythology, known for his wisdom, spiritual prowess, and influential role among the Saptarishis (seven great sages). Here are some notable stories and legends associated with him: 1. The Curse of Vishnu One of the most famous stories involving Bhrigu is his encounter with Lord Vishnu. In an attempt to test the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, Bhrigu visited each deity. When he approached Lord Vishnu, Vishnu appeared to be asleep. In his anger, Bhrigu kicked Vishnu on the chest. Vishnu, however, woke up calmly, apologized for not noticing Bhrigu's presence, and gently massaged the sage's foot, which had hurt from the kick. Bhrigu was moved by Vishnu's humility and declared him the greatest of the three gods. However, Vishnu's consort, Lakshmi, was offended by the disrespect shown to her husband and cursed Bhrigu that no Brahmin would ever be wealthy. This story highlights Vishnu's compassion and humility. 2. Bhrigu's...

Bhaunri, also known as Bhramari, holds significant cultural and religious importance in the culmination of the Chandan Yatra festivities. Bhaunri marks the final day of the Chandan Yatra festival. The term "Bhaunri" derives from "Bhramari," which means circle. During this ceremony, the idols of Lord Jagannath, along with the idols of the Pandavas, are taken on a boat procession around the Narendra Tank in Puri. The Chandan Yatra itself is a 21-day water sport festival that begins with the representative of Lord Jagannath, Madanmohan, along with other deities, initiating the festivities on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya. This festival is celebrated to mitigate the intense summer heat and is characterized by various rituals and water-related activities. On the concluding day of Bhaunri, the atmosphere is filled with grandeur and excitement. Elaborate fireworks light up the sky, and vibrant musical performances captivate the devotees and visitors. Th...

The Ramayana, a great Indian epic attributed to the sage Valmiki, has had a profound influence on various cultures across Asia. Among these adaptations, the Cambodian Ramayana, known as the Reamker, stands out for its unique interpretation and cultural integration. Here is a comparison between the original Valmiki Ramayana and the Cambodian Ramayana: Origins and Versions Valmiki Ramayana: Origin : India, attributed to the sage Valmiki. Time Period : Composed between the 5th and 4th centuries BCE. Structure : Consists of seven Kandas (books) and approximately 24,000 verses. Language : Sanskrit. Cambodian Ramayana (Reamker): Origin : Cambodia, influenced by Indian traders and scholars. Time Period : Dates back to the 9th century CE with continuous adaptations. Structure : The Reamker is composed in the form of epic poetry and dance-drama. Language : Old Khmer, later versions in modern Khmer. Themes and Characters Valmiki Ramayana: Central Themes : Dharma (righteousness), duty, the ideal ...

The story of Luv and Kush stopping the horse of Rama as part of the Ashvamedha Yajna is a significant episode in the Ramayana, particularly in the Uttarakanda, the later section of the epic. Here’s a detailed narration of the story: Context After the return of Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana to Ayodhya and the establishment of Rama’s reign, peace and prosperity prevail in the kingdom. However, due to the whispers and doubts among some citizens regarding Sita's chastity during her time in Lanka, Rama decides to send her to the forest near the hermitage of Sage Valmiki, without informing her of the reason. Sita in Valmiki's Hermitage While living in Valmiki's ashram, Sita gives birth to twin sons, Luv and Kush. The sage Valmiki takes them under his wing, imparting education and the knowledge of the scriptures, as well as the martial arts. The boys grow up unaware of their royal lineage. The Ashvamedha Yajna Years later, Rama decides to perform the Ashvamedha Yajna, a horse sacrific...