Story of Demon Darika and Goddess Bhadrakali is famous in South India especially in Kerala. The story is the reason for the origin of many temples in Kerala. Legend has it that once Asuras, or demons, were defeated by Devas and they had to retreat to the netherworld. Two Asura women then did intense penance and propitiated Brahma who gave them the boon that they would give birth to two powerful sons. In due course of time, the women had two sons named Danavendra and Darika. Danavendra and Darika then did intense Tapas and propitiated Brahma. They attained the boon from Brahma that men, gods or demons would not be able to kill them. They also got the boon that they would have the strength of thousand elephants. With such invincible powers, Danavendra and Darika attacked the Devas and drew them out of heaven. Devas asked Sage Narada to help them. Sage Narada went to Kailash and asked Shiva to intervene and wipe out Adharma being propitiated by the demons. Shiva the...

The four sacred ponds in Puri (the holy city in Hinduism which houses the famous Jagannath Temple) are Indradyumna, Narendra, Markandeya and Swetaganga. Indradyumna, located near Gundicha Temple, is holiest among the four. Indradyumna pond is 396 X 485 feet in size and is named after king Indradyumna. Nilakantheshwara murti is located on the southwest bank of the pond. Narendra pond, also known as Chandanpokhari is 834 X 873 feet in size. It has a platform housing a temple in its center. Chandan Yatra is held in the pond. Markandeya pond is 370 X 530 feet in size. It has eight Matrika images. Two Shiva temples – Markandeshwara and Nilakanteshwara – are located on its banks. Swetaganga is situated south of Jagannath Temple. Murtis of Svetamadhava and Matsyamadava are found on its banks.

Fir Balsam, a fragrant resin derived from the Balsam Fir tree, has long held spiritual significance in various cultures, including Hinduism. While not as directly cited in Hindu texts as other sacred trees like the peepal or neem, the properties of Fir Balsam align with Hindu spiritual practices due to its grounding, purifying, and healing qualities. The spiritual benefits of Fir Balsam can be understood through its association with natural healing, connecting with nature, and enhancing mental clarity. Let’s explore its significance further and its practical applications. 12 Spiritual Benefits of Fir Balsam Purification and Cleansing : Fir Balsam is known for its purifying energy. Its fragrance can cleanse spaces of negative energy, making it a valuable tool in rituals for purifying the aura or the environment. Grounding Energy : Fir Balsam helps to ground the mind and soul, connecting us with nature and the earth element, which is crucial in Hinduism to maintain balance and calmness. ...

Apsareshwar Mahadev is worshiped in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the 84 forms of Shiva worshiped in Ujjain. Those offering prayers to Apsareshwar Mahadev will be blessed with the material comfort that they are seeking. The temple dedicated to Apsareshwar Mahadev is located at Patni Bazar on the northern side of Modi ki gali in Ujjain. This form of Shiva is associated with Apsara Rambha. Apsareshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84 Shiva Temples in Ujjain and it is the 17th temple visited during the parikarama of Shivalayas here. Story of Apsareshwar Mahadev form of Shiva in Ujjain Apsara Rambha was once cursed by Indra, the king of Devas. She fell on earth and was in a sad state. On earth, she met Sage Narada. He asked Rambha to offer prayers to a particular Shivling at Mahakaal Vana (Ujjain) which is famous for desire fulfillment. Rambha performed pujas before the Shivling and she was able to please Mahadev. She go...

Chikkanahalli Nagappa Temple is located at Chikkanahalli near Ramanagara in Bangalore, Karnataka. This is a very popular Naga or Snake shrine in the region. The serpent temple is famous because it has a naturally formed Naga murti (idol). It is also believed that the Naga murti worshipped in the temple is growing in size. The murti of Naga worshipped in the shrine is in sleeping position on a huge stone slab. The temple is famous for Sarpa Dosha Nivarana. Devotees find relief to various Naga Doshas after offering prayers in the shrine. Many people certify that they have attained peace, wealth, prosperity and good health after offering prayers in the shrine.

In Hinduism, fireflies hold symbolic and spiritual significance. They are seen as mystical creatures that reflect inner illumination, spiritual awakening, and the presence of divine energy. The sight of fireflies often evokes wonder, peace, and reflection. In many ways, these luminous insects inspire a deeper connection with nature and the cosmos, helping individuals find light in the darkest of times. 12 Spiritual Benefits of Fireflies in Hinduism: Symbol of Inner Light : Fireflies symbolize the light within every being. Just as they glow in the dark, they remind us to embrace our inner wisdom and spiritual guidance, even in difficult times. Sign of Spiritual Awakening : The sudden appearance of fireflies can be interpreted as a sign of spiritual awakening or enlightenment. Their light serves as a metaphor for the opening of one’s inner vision or third eye (Ajna chakra). Connection to Divine Energy : Fireflies are considered messengers from higher realms, representing the divine prese...

Fish hold significant spiritual importance in Hinduism, both symbolically and in terms of their actual presence in rituals, beliefs, and daily life. Fish are viewed as carriers of wisdom, protectors, and divine beings in Hindu traditions. Here’s an expanded view on the spiritual benefits of fish in Hinduism , along with 12 benefits , their practical applications in day-to-day life , and how fish can positively impact our physical, mental, and social wellbeing . 1. Symbol of Protection (Matsya Avatar) In Hinduism, Matsya , the fish incarnation of Lord Vishnu , is revered as the first avatar that saved the world during a great deluge. This teaches us that fish symbolize protection, guidance, and divine intervention . Day-to-Day Application : Keeping fish in a home aquarium is believed to invite protective energies , offering peace and security to the household. Physical/Mental Benefit : Watching fish swim creates a sense of calm, reducing stress and anxiety . 2. Bringing Positive Energy ...

Mahalasa Narayani is a manifestation of Goddess Shakti. Some people believe that she is a manifestation of the Mohini Avatar of Hindu God Vishnu. Goddess Mahalasa Narayani is worshipped mainly in Goa, parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka. The most important temple dedicated to the Goddess is located at Mardol (Vernem) in Goa . Legends and the information on the manifestation of Mahalasa Narayani are mentioned in the Skanda Purana. Legend has it that the Goddess Mahalasa Narayani appeared on earth to annihilate a demon named Chandasur, who had created havoc in the region. It is said that Parashuram, the fifth incarnation of Vishnu, asked people to offer prayers to the Goddess so that she will annihilate the demon. In this form she is an incarnation of Goddess Shakti. The Brahmanda Purana mentions that Goddess Mahalasa Narayani is a manifestation of Mohini Avatar of Vishnu. This legend connects Mahalasa Narayani with the Malhari Martand Bhairav incarnation of Shi...

Ketu is one of the Navgrahas or nine planets revered in Hinduism. In astrology, Ketu is significant and is believed to influence an individual's horoscope for a period of seven years. Worshiping Ketu is done to mitigate the negative effects in one's horoscope, which can include skin diseases caused by an unfavorable Ketu position in the Kundali. Ketu is often worshiped alongside Lord Shiva. Materials Needed for Ketu Puja: Oil Til (sesame seeds) Blanket Clothes Blue flowers Items for donating to the poor and needy Steps to Perform Ketu Puja: Preparation: Choose a suitable place and clean the area where the puja will be performed. Set up an altar with an idol or image of Ketu and Lord Shiva. Arrange all the required items neatly. Best Time: The most auspicious time to perform Ketu Puja is at night. Offering and Worship: Light a lamp using oil and place it in front of the deity. Offer til (sesame seeds), which is considered sacred for Ketu. Place a blanket and clothes as off...

Kalababhishekam is an important offering made by Ayyappa devotees at the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple in Kerala. It is among the one of the four most important Abhishekams performed at the temple. The puja items used in Kalabhishekam are freshly prepared Sandalwood paste and rose water or Panineer. Lord Ayyappa is also known as Abhisheka Priya due to his fondness for Abhishekam. In the Abhishekam ritual the deity is showered with his favorite puja item. The most popular Abhishekam at the temple is the Neyyabhishekam .