Charanamrit is an effort to give knowledge about Indian Gods & their family tree, Temples, Gurus, Sages that epitomize the age old Indian culture. It helps people to realize school of thought or a legend behind each and every Hindu customs and traditions. For more information visit:- www.charanamrit.com
Alamelu is the goddess, who is believed to be the incarnation of Lakshmi. Devotees Of Alamelu recite the name of their beloved goddess by other names also such as Padmavathi, Alarmelmagnai and Alemelmangai. Alarmelmagnai means they are revering Goddess who is seated on Lotus. Alamelu means they are reciting the name of the gentle Goddess.
It is believed that the father of Alamelu was Akasha Raja and later she married to Vakateshwera.
According to Enkatachala Mahatyam Alamelu is the infinite source of love and Kindness. She Incarnated as the golden lotus.
Alamelu Mangapuran temple in Thiruchanoor in the suburb of Tirupati City considered as the main abode in Goddess Alamelu. There is a tradition followed by the devotees, they visit the temple Trumpet Balaji to have the divine glimpse of Vankateswara must visit the temple of Padmavathi offer obeisance to Alamelu. It is not surprising that, from the long time, these revered temples attracts millions of devotees each year.
Alamelu manifested as a golden lotus in Padmasarovaram in Pushkarini. According to Mahatyam, The lotus has not blossomed without the assistance of Suryanarayana. This is the reason that a temple dedicated to Lord Suryanarayana is found on the eastern side of Pushkarini.
There is Festival celebrated in Pushkarini to commemorate the incarnation of Goddess Alamelu. This festival lasts for ten days. During this festival, special bath is given to Alamelu (Padmawathi). Thereafter adorned special clothes and jewelry... Read More
According to Hindu Traditions, fire (Agni) plays the significant part
in creating, maintaining and destroying life on the Earth. It plays an
important role in various rituals and practices to worship Hindu
deities. It is very important to have the knowledge of a correct
direction of the fire for different purposes. You have to face in the
east direction to give offerings to the Gods through fire. To give an
offering to the ancestors there is the requirement of facing south. For
cooking remember to place your gas or cooking range in the west
direction. Hindus understand the importance of Agni and thus honored the
lord of fire as Agnidev.
Historians have found the images of Agni dev as red body, two faces with
big, black eyes and long, wild, black hairs. Sharp golden teeth, seven
tongues, seven hands and three legs and has the vehicle as male sheep.
They have found some images that depicted him riding on a chariot which
is being pulled by goats or parrots.
Yet some images of Agni was found that three faced Rudraksha bead
symbolizes Lord Agni. There is they believe that the wearer of Rudraksha
will get rid of all sins and attain purity of thought and deed like
fire that burns all impurities.
There are different accounts are given about his parents.
According to some scriptures Agnidev is the son of of Earth and Dyaus
Pita. Some other scriptures mention Agnidev originated from from the
lotus of Brahma. Yet there is another version that depicts Agnidev as
the son of the ten mothers and ten fingers of the human being are ten
sisters of Agnidev.
Agnidev is considered as the intercession between the deities and the
people who accepts offerings of the people towards the Hindu deities
before starting any auspicious work.
The interesting legend associated to Agnidev is as follows:
According to Hindu Mythology there was the powerful demon Tarakasur who
asked for the boon that he would be slain by the son of Shiva. Once
Shiva and Parvati united and gave rise to the divine energy that was
produced for the birth of their son. The information about the birth of
energy reached Tarakasur. He decided to obliterate the divine energy to
prevent the birth of son of Shiva and Parvati. Indra asked the Agnidev
to protect the energy from the harm caused by Tarakasur. Agnidev stole
that energy to take care of the energy, but unfortunately Shiva and
Parvati were not aware of the facts.
Agnidev failed to bear the heat produced by the divine energy and rush
towards the forest to save his life. When Parvati realized about the
loss of energy, she became furious cursed the deities that their wives
that they would not able to conceive. She also cursed... Read More
According to Hindus, there are nine planets revered as God. The nine planets (Navagrahae) are Surya(Sun), Som(Moon), Mangal(Mars), Budh(Mercury), Brihaspati(Jupiter), Shukra(Vinus), Shani(Saturn), Rahu(North Lunar Node) and Ketu(South Lunar Node).
The synonym of the Moon is Chandra, Som and Hindus revered him as Somdev (Moon God). Somdev depicted as handsome God with fair complexion attired in white clothes. He is adorned with Golden Crown and pearl necklace. The vehicle of the Somdev is said to be the chariot that has three wheels pulled by ten horses. All the horses are celestial, unrivaled and are sharp minded. The eyes and ears of the horses are white. According to ‘Matasyapurana' compared these horses as white as a couch.
In many temples deities of Somdev has mace in one hand and the other hand is raised in the posture of bestowing blessings.
According to the ‘Srimad Bhagawat’ Moon-God is the son of Maharishi Atri and Anasuya. According to Harivanshpurana, Somdev grew as a young man, he was married to the twenty-seven daughters of ‘Daksha' that are reffered to be twenty-seven constellations. The favorite one of Somdev was Rohini.
Since he ignored his other wives, Daksha cursed his son in law, Somdev that he would disappear gradually. Somdev was frightened and started praying Shiva to overcome the consequences of the curse of the Daksha. Shiva explained him that he couldnot completly ward off the ill effects of Cures.
He said that while Daksha's curse would cause him to to dimnish, Shiva's boon would cause him to increase. Since then the brighter part of the moon started diminishing for fifteen days and attain the stage of No Moon (Amavasya). After that Moon’s brighter started increases and after fifteen days, And attain the state of Full Moon (Purnima)... Read More
According to the Mudgal Purana, Ganesha is married to the Brahma’s daughters- Riddhi (prosperity) and Siddhi (wealth).
Shiv Purana gave the reference of Lord Ganesha had two sons Shubh (auspiciousness) and Labh (profit). Shubh is referred as Kheshma in many scriptures.
Shubh was born from the Ganesha (Wisdom) and Ridhi (Intellect), and Labh was born from Ganesh (knowledge) and Siddhi (spiritual well being).
It signifies that one can have the blessings of favorable conditions in the life or can say that one can start any auspicious work when its Intelligence is guided by the wisdom. Similarly, one can gain profit or can do well in the business or job when its knowledge is blended with spirituality.
Few scriptures even mentioned that Ganesha had one daughters ‘Santoshi Maa’.
Mantra to Invite Ganesha along with his family
"Om Sri Ganeshav Namah, Riddhi Siddhi Shubh Labh"
Significance of Mantra
This mantra is recited to invite Ganesha along with family members so that he has no reason to go back. He could stay lifelong with his devotees... Read More
According to Hindu Calender, Phulera Dooj falls on the second day of the waning phase of the moon(Shukla Paksha) in the month of Phalgun.
In year 2015, Phulera Dooj is on Friday, 20.02.2015
Chaughadiya muhurat:
Labh Amrit Chaughadiya - From 08.38 to 11.27 a.m.
Abhijit muhurat- From 12.29 to 1.14 p.m.
Shubu Chaughadiya - From 12.52 to 02.14 p.m.
Labh Chaughadiya - 09.40 to 11.16 p.m.
Phulera Dooj is celebrated in the Braj region of India, around Mathura-Vrindavan that is situated in Uttar Pradesh, India.
This festival falls between the two major festivals of Vasant Panchami and Holi. Due to its timings it signifies that Krishna is preparing for playing Holi with his beloved Radha and other cowherd girls (Gopiyan).
On the occasion of Phulera Dooj Krishna temples are decorated. Devotees gather in the temple to have a special glimpse of the deity of Krishna.
Significance Of Phulera Dooj
There is a believe that astrologically Phulera Dooj is the special day that is free from any defects... Read More
Hindu calendar actually based on the waxing and the waning phase of the moon. During the waxing phase, the moon’s light part increases and on the completion of fifteen days it attained the full moon. In the waning phase, moon’s lighted part shrinks and on completion of fifteen days attains New Moon. In both phases, the eleventh day is called Ekadashi. However, each Ekadashi is known by different names.
Generally, Ekadashi falls twice in the month. In a year, there are 24 Ekadashi. When any year falls in the category of Adimas it has 26 Ekadashi. Year 2015 comes in the catagery of Adimas and thus has 26 Ekadashi.
Vijaya Ekadashi is one of the important Ekadashi that is commenserated in the Hindu Month Phalguna(twelfth lunar month).
How People Celebrate Vijaya Ekadashi?
People generally keep fast on this day. They eat pure vegetarian food the night before Ekadashi. People keep fast for 24 hours means they will break their fast on the next day. During the night of Ekadashi, they wake up for the whole night (Jagaran), and they worship Lord Vishnu. They place the idol of the Vishnu on the seven grains, and they are as follows:
Wheat (Gehun), Rice (Chawal), Whole Green Gram (Moong), Red Lentil (Masoor), Barley (Jau), chickpea (Channa) and Black Gram (Urad).
After that light an earthen lamp and incense sticks in front of the deity. After prayers, Devotees offer fruits, flowers, Charanamrit and Prasad to the deity to seek his blessings and later distribute to the devotees gathered there for the prayer. People break their fast on the next day, i.e. Dwadashi (twelfth day) with donating the earthen pot full of seven whole grains.
Significance Of Vijaya Ekadashi
There is a believe that the one who keep fast on this day can increase its good fortune and ward off his bad fortune. He/she can overcome all the obstacles in his/her life and get rid of all the difficulties in their life.
According to Hindu scriptures, one who donates gold, land, cow would be bestowed with blessings of the Vishnu.
Refence of Vijaya Ekadashi in Ramayana
We can get the reference of the Vijaya Ekadashi in the Ramayana (one of the important epic of Hindus). It depicted the importanct phase when Rama was sent to exile. Ravana had forcefully kidnapped the wife of Rama, Sita.
Rama had kept this fast to get success in the war with Ravana and liberates Sita from the shackles of Ravana. We all know that there was a remarkable war between Rama and Ravana took place, and Rama slew ten heads of the Ravana and overpower him... Read More
Ganesha had manifested in the form Dhumravarna that literally means smokeless form. Smoke here depicts the transition between the unreal manifestation that can be perceived by real eyes (Sagun) and the real manifestation that cannot be perceived by real eyes (Nirgun). He gave a message to his devotees that they strive to move from the unreal world of miseries in the real world of Divinism.
Dhumravarna manifested to give the message to his devotees that they can attain the salvation when they don’t have the EGO.
One interesting Hindu Mythological legend is there related to the birth of Dhumravarna.
Long time ago, once Brahma was thanking the Sun that he was responsible for the worldly activities that were happening around the world. After this incident sun became arrogant that the three worlds are governed by him. He considered himself to be the wholly solely in charge of the three worlds.
It is believed that when the thought of the ego passed in the mind of the sun, he sneezed and gave rise to a boy with demonic cult. The boy went down to the world of demon and there he met Sukracharya, the great preceptor of Demons. He christened him with the name “Aham" that literally means Ego. Sukracharya gave this name to the boy as he was born from the ego of the Sun.
Sukracharya advised Ahem to worship Dhumravarna. After many years of severe penance Dhumravarna appeared before him and gave him the boon that he would succeed in conquering all the three worlds. Rejuvenated with the boon Ahem conquered the three worlds... Read More
Ganesha manifested seventh time in the form of Vighnaraja and has the big snake as his vehicle. According to Hindu mythology, he had incarnated in this form to overpower the demon Mamasura that literally means the ego.
The interesting Hindu mythological narration of the birth of the Vighnaraja is as follows:
One day Parvati was chatting with her friends in the relaxed and good-humored mood. During that time Parvati cracked jokes. According to mythological narration, when Parvati was laughing while sharing jokes and out of her laughter one beautiful boy appeared. Parvati was feeling proud that she had given rise to to such a beautiful boy and thus gave him the name ‘Mama’ that is the synonyms of Ego.
Mama then bowed down to seek blessings of Parvati. Mama’s way of showing respect to Parvati pleased her and then advised him to go into the forest for performing severe penance to invoke Vighnaraja for fulfilling his wishes.
As per the advice of Parvati, Mama started his journey towards the forest. During his journey, he met Sambara belong to the demonic world. Sambura tried to lure Mama that he should pray according to the demonic ways. This way Mama with godly nature became the Demon Mamasura. As soon as, he acquired demonic qualities, the greed of conquering all the three worlds inculcated in him.
Finally, he succeeded in his mission and sent all Gods to the exile. Frightened Gods prayed to Vignaraja. He appeared in front of Gods and bless them that he would solve their problems. Thereafter, Vignaraja defeated Mamasura... Read More
Everyone must have experienced a certain mishappenings in its life. God Genesha had manifested in the form of Vikata that literally means reliever of mishappenings in life. He assures his devotees that if they invoke him with true devotion and devoid themselves from worldly desires, then they would not experience any wrong twist in their journey called life.
There is a fascinating Hindu mythological tale related to the birth of Vikata.
There was the demon named Kamasura that literally means worldly desires born out of the seeds of Vishnu.
Kamasura belong to the demonic cult thus went to the mentor Sukracharya as his trainee. Sukracharya was the most powerful and intelligent master of demons.
Sankracharya advised Kamasura to perform penance on Shiva and after long and strenuous austerities, Shiva appeared in front of Kamasura and gave him the boon that he would become a most powerful demon... Read More
According to Hindu Mythological tale, once Indra, king of Gods showed
disrespect to the powerful sage Durvasa. This incident infuriated the
sage and he cursed Indra. As a result, Indra lost his strength. When
demon Bali came to know about this. He attacked war against the gods
with Indra and defeated him. Indra then went to Vishnu for the help.
Vishnu advised Indra and Gods to churn the ocean and get the nectar from
the ocean.
Vishnu incarnated as the Mohini to duped demons and gave nectar to the
Gods. Meanwhile, when Shiva saw Mohini, he was mesmerized by the beauty
of Mohini. When Vishnu came to know about the Shiva’s infatuation, he
immediately came in his usual form. This unpleasant event made Shiva
annoyed and opened his third eye(eye of destruction). The heated rays
of the Shiva gave birth to the demon Krodasura.
Krodhasura then pray to Sun to seek his blessings. Pleased with devotion
of Krodhasura, Sun had given him the boon that he would become a
powerful king. After getting the boon, he started threatening Gods.
Terrified Gods, prayed to Ganesha to help them at the time of crises and
get their Kingdom back. Ganesha appeared in front of Gods in the form
of Lambodra (Large stomach) and assured them that he would solve their
problem.
Lambodra then challenged Krodhasura to fight with him. Krodhasura agreed
and then Lambodra started swallowing Krodhasura in his large stomach... Read More
Fourth manifestation of Ganesha is Gajanana
that symbolizes Ganesha with an elephant head. Ganesha had taken this
avatar for the conquering the demon Lobha that literally means
greediness.
There is an an interesting Hindu mythological tale behind the birth of Gajanana.
One day Kubera, the God of riches, visited Mt. Kailasa, the abode of
Shiva. When Kubera reached there he saw Parvati, who was looking
unsurpassably beautiful. Kubera started looking Parvati with his
salacious eyes. On the knowledge of this indecent behavior, Parvati
became infuriated. Kubera realized his mistake and thus started
quivering with fear. At that moment, from the fear of Kubera, demon
named Lobhasura had taken the birth.
Lobhasura was the demon and thus started living in the demon world. He
got the education from the Sukracharya, the teacher of demons.
Sukracharya advised Lobhasura to chant the divine name of Shiva. The
demon Lobhasura started performing severe penance for Shiva. After the
long period, pleased the devotion of the Lobhasura, Shiva appeared and
blessed him with the boon to be victorious in his future endeavors.
Lobhasura overjoyed with a boon that he started conquering the kingdoms
and finally became the monarch of all the three worlds.
In the meantime, Lamboasura became overconfident that he could win
anyone. In this illusion, he went to Kailasa and ordered Shiva to leave
his abode. Shiva knew what would happen in the future, so he calmly left
his abode.
All the Gods were terrified by the demonic rule of Lobhasura and thus
they decided to visit sage Raibhya. He instructed them to pray to
Gajanana. On seeking the advice of Raibhya, all Gods started praying to
invoke the blessings of Gajanana and sought his protection... Read More
Ganesha manifested in his third form famous as Mahodara to slay the
demon Mohasura. The demon Mohasura literally means hallucination and
uncertainty.
There is interesting yet little confusing story behind the manifestation
of Mahodara. Once Shiva was in deep meditation for a long time. In the
meantime, there was the powerful demon Mohasura. He had prayed Sun and
then got the boon from him that he would be regarded as the king of
demons. He was overjoyed and started conquering kingdoms and ultimately
able to conquer all the three planes of existence.
All Gods were worried and they went to the Sun to seek help. Sun advised
all of them to worship Mahodara. After seeking Sun’s advice they
started worshiping Mahodara with full devotion.
Mahodara was pleased and granted them with a boon, saying that he would
banish Mohasura. Demon’s teacher and priest Shukracharya came to know
about this incident in his meditative state. He advised Mohasura to
surrender in front of Mahodara.Vishnu also advised Mahasura that if he
surrendered in front of Mahodara,he would not be killed or destroyed.
Mahasura accepted the advice of Sukracharya and extending the hand of
friendship towards Mahodara. He sang his praises and asked for
forgiveness for his evil sins. Mahasura then returned all the kingdoms
of Gods and assured that he would be always on the path of
righteousness... Read More
Many Decades ago, there was the sage
Chyavana. He had created a boy with the power of his severe penance and
named him Madasura that literally means ‘Pride’. When Madasura grew up,
he had the desire to conquer the whole universe and thus with the
permission of his father, he went to his uncle Shukracharya. Sukracharya
was very powerful Demon’s teacher and priest. He advised Madasura to
chant the Mantra’Hrim’. Madasura chanted this mantra for thousands of
years to invoke the blessings of Shakti.
Finally, Shakti, appeared and gave him the boon for the fulfillment of
all his desires. Thereafter the Madasura went on the mission of
conquering the three worlds. At the end he succeeded in his mission and
became the ruler of all the three worlds.
In Madasura’s kingdom, there was no place of moral virtues and
rightness. Later, he married to the daughter of Pramada Asura’s daughter
Saalasa. The couple had three children Vilasi, Lolupa and Dhanapriya.
Gods were very worried with increasing power and dreadful acts of
Madasura. All Gods decided that they should approach Sanat Kumara to
seek the advice of Sanatkumara to overcome their dilemma. He advised
them to pray for Ekadanta to seek his protection.
Sanat Kumara also described the glory of Ekadanta thus "Eka” stands for Illusion (Maya) and “Danta” stands for Truth (Satya).
Ekadanta thus represents the incarnation of Ganesha who had taken this
form to give the message of ultimate truth that can help to get rid of
illusions.
On the advice of Santkumara, Gods started praying for Ekdanta for
thousands of years. Ekdanta was pleased with the devotion of Gods and
thus appeared before Gods and assured them that he would remove their
miseries.
Saint Narada gave news to Madasura that Ekdanta had given the boon to
Gods and later he advised Madasura to fought a war against Ekadanta. M
Many Decades ago,there was the sage Chyavana. He had created a boy with
the power of his severe penance and named him Madasura that literally
means ‘Pride’. When Madasura grew up, he had the desire to conquer the
whole universe and thus with the permission of his father, he went to
his uncle Shukracharya. Sukracharya was very powerful Demon’s teacher
and priest. He advised Madasura to chant the Mantra’Hrim’. Madasura
chanted this mantra for thousands of years to invoke the blessings of
Shakti.
Finally, Shakti, appeared and gave him the boon for the fulfillment of
all his desires. Thereafter the Madasura went on the mission of
conquering the three worlds. At the end he succeeded in his mission and
became the ruler of all the three worlds.
In Madasura’s kingdom, there was no place of moral virtues and
rightness. Later, he married to the daughter of Pramada Asura’s daughter
Saalasa. The couple had three children Vilasi, Lolupa and Dhanapriya.
Gods were very worried with increasing power and dreadful acts. All Gods
decided that they should approach Sanat Kumara to seek the advice of
Sanatkumara to overcome their dilemma. He advised them to pray for
Ekadanta to seek his protection.
Sanat Kumara also described the glory of Ekadanta thus "Eka” stands for Illusion (Maya) and “Danta” stands for Truth (Satya).
Ekadanta thus represents the incarnation of Ganesha who had taken this
form to give the message of ultimate truth that can help to get rid of
illusions.
On the advice of Santkumara, Gods started praying for Ekdanta for
thousands of years. Ekdanta was pleased with the devotion of Gods and
thus appeared before Gods and assured them that he would remove their
miseries.
Saint Narada gave news to Madasura that Ekdanta had given the boon to
Gods and later he advised Madasura to fought a war against Ekadanta.
Madeira got ready for a battle with the Ekdanta. Finally, when Madasura
reached the battlefield and saw the horrifying form of Ekadanta, he
surrendered at the feet of Ekdanta... Read More
According to the Hindu Calendar, Kumbha Sankranti marks the beginning
of the eleventh month (Phalgun). It signifies the transaction of sun
from the Capricorn constellation (Makar Rashi) to Aquarius constellation
(Kumb Rashi).
According to Malayalam Calendar, Kumbha Sankranti marks the beginning of Kumbha Masam. In Karnataka, This festival is famous as Masi Masam. Similarly, According to Bangali calender, Kumbha Sankranti marks the beginning of Falgun Maas.
In 2015, Kumbha Sankranti falls on the 13th Feburary (Friday).
The Punya Kaal Muhurta for Kumbha Sankranti during 2015 will last from
07:05 to 08:33. During this, the Mahapunya Kaal Muhurta will last for 23
minutes and this would start from 08:09 and last till 08:33.
On this auspicious day, the world’s biggest and the most auspicious
religious gathering held at the bank of the confluence of three rivers
in Allahabad.
Kumbh Sankranti Celebrations
Millions of people belonging to all strata of the society take a bath on
the banks of the River Ganges and other holy rivers of India. They have
the unsurpassable divine experience of peace and tranquility in the
mind. There is the believe that the one who take the bath in the river
would get salvation and get rid of the vicious circle of rebirth... Read More
Many Decades ago, there was the sage
Chyavana. He had created a boy with the power of his severe penance and
named him Madasura that literally means ‘Pride’. When Madasura grew up,
he had the desire to conquer the whole universe and thus with the
permission of his father, he went to his uncle Shukracharya. Sukracharya
was very powerful Demon’s teacher and priest. He advised Madasura to
chant the Mantra’Hrim’. Madasura chanted this mantra for thousands of
years to invoke the blessings of Shakti.
Finally, Shakti, appeared and gave him the boon for the fulfillment of
all his desires. Thereafter the Madasura went on the mission of
conquering the three worlds. At the end he succeeded in his mission and
became the ruler of all the three worlds.
In Madasura’s kingdom, there was no place of moral virtues and
rightness. Later, he married to the daughter of Pramada Asura’s daughter
Saalasa. The couple had three children Vilasi, Lolupa and Dhanapriya.
Gods were very worried with increasing power and dreadful acts of
Madasura. All Gods decided that they should approach Sanat Kumara to
seek the advice of Sanatkumara to overcome their dilemma. He advised
them to pray for Ekadanta to seek his protection.
Sanat Kumara also described the glory of Ekadanta thus "Eka” stands for Illusion (Maya) and “Danta” stands for Truth (Satya).
Ekadanta thus represents the incarnation of Ganesha who had taken this
form to give the message of ultimate truth that can help to get rid of
illusions.
On the advice of Santkumara, Gods started praying for Ekdanta for
thousands of years. Ekdanta was pleased with the devotion of Gods and
thus appeared before Gods and assured them that he would remove their
miseries.
Saint Narada gave news to Madasura that Ekdanta had given the boon to
Gods and later he advised Madasura to fought a war against Ekadanta. M
Many Decades ago,there was the sage Chyavana. He had created a boy with
the power of his severe penance and named him Madasura that literally
means ‘Pride’. When Madasura grew up, he had the desire to conquer the
whole universe and thus with the permission of his father, he went to
his uncle Shukracharya. Sukracharya was very powerful Demon’s teacher
and priest. He advised Madasura to chant the Mantra’Hrim’. Madasura
chanted this mantra for thousands of years to invoke the blessings of
Shakti.
Finally, Shakti, appeared and gave him the boon for the fulfillment of
all his desires. Thereafter the Madasura went on the mission of
conquering the three worlds. At the end he succeeded in his mission and
became the ruler of all the three worlds.
In Madasura’s kingdom, there was no place of moral virtues and
rightness. Later, he married to the daughter of Pramada Asura’s daughter
Saalasa. The couple had three children Vilasi, Lolupa and Dhanapriya.
Gods were very worried with increasing power and dreadful acts. All Gods
decided that they should approach Sanat Kumara to seek the advice of
Sanatkumara to overcome their dilemma. He advised them to pray for
Ekadanta to seek his protection.
Sanat Kumara also described the glory of Ekadanta thus "Eka” stands for Illusion (Maya) and “Danta” stands for Truth (Satya).
Ekadanta thus represents the incarnation of Ganesha who had taken this
form to give the message of ultimate truth that can help to get rid of
illusions.
On the advice of Santkumara, Gods started praying for Ekdanta for
thousands of years. Ekdanta was pleased with the devotion of Gods and
thus appeared before Gods and assured them that he would remove their
miseries.
Saint Narada gave news to Madasura that Ekdanta had given the boon to
Gods and later he advised Madasura to fought a war against Ekadanta.
Madeira got ready for a battle with the Ekdanta. Finally, when Madasura
reached the battlefield and saw the horrifying form of Ekadanta, he
surrendered at the feet of Ekdanta.
Madasura pleaded in front of Ekdanta that he would return all the
kingdoms that he had conquered and in return he wanted the boon of
Ekdanta’s Protection. Ekdanta then told Madasura that he should not
remain at the place where Ekdanta is worshiped. Devotees of Ekdanta thus
worshiped him for spiritual wisdom and to keep their pride at bay.
Madasura got ready for a battle with the Ekdanta... Read More
Ganesha’s First manifestation is of Vakratunda that literally means Ganesha with twisted trunk.
As we already discussed that Ganesha had eight manifestations (avatars) and the Vakratuda was his first avatar.
The Avtar of the Ganesha in the form of Vakratunda is depicted as the
Brahmin elephant god is riding a lion. He takes this avatar to slay the
demon Matsara that literally means rivalry. This avatar guides us that
we all must avoid rivalry with our fellow beings and maintain the
harmony among ourselves. Vakratunda gives us protection and bless us
with success in all our good causes.
The story behind the birth of Vakratunda
Once there was a demon named "Matsara" was born out of the nonsense thoughts of Indra, the king of Gods.
Demon Matsara performed severe penance to seek the blessings of Shiva
and obtained the boon of fearlessness from Him. By obtaining the boon
from Shiva, he became so powerful that he went on conquering all the
three worlds. He became the king of Gods and taken the place with the
help of the guidance given by most eminent Demon’s teacher Sukracharya.
The defeated Gods ran to Kailasha and there they found Shiva in a deep
meditation. They prayed to him for the protection. On hearing the
mission of Gods, Demon Matsara went to Kailasha and he started fighting
with Shiva.
At that time, Gods were very upset and afraid. They were puzzled and
don’t know what to do next. Fortunately Dattatreya came there. He
advised the Gods to invoke the grace of Vakratunda.
All the Gods did severe penance along with Shiva and pleased with their
prayers, Vakratunda appeared and assured them that he would slay the
Demon Matsara. The demon was so terrified at the sight of angry Ganesha
in the avatar of Vakratunda that he surrendered to his divine feet... Read More
Ganesha is the most adorable Hindu deity
who is being loved by people of all age groups. He is prayed by all
strata of people, whether they belong to rich class or poor class.
Ganesha is not only the revered deity of Hindus, but he is even
worshipped by Jains and Buddhists.
According to Hindu Mythology, Ganesha is depicted as the deity with
elephant big head, large ears, small mouth, small eyes, large stomach
and large trunk holding sweet (Modak). Ganesha has mouse as his vehicle.
Ganesha's large elephant head signifies that we all must think beyond
the materialistic goals and always progress on the path to achieve the
sprtualistic goals.
Ganesha’s large ears, small mouth, small eyes symbolize that one must listen more, speak less and concentrate on its work.
The large stomach of Ganesha teaches that one must have the habit of peacefully digesting all the good and bad in life.
The Modak Ganesha holds in his trunk indicates that we must try to discover the sweetness of the soul.
The snake that runs round his waist represents that then we all are
blessed with the energy that we can achieve anything in life, however we
have to keep complete faith in our abilities.
Ganesha has chosen mouse as his vehicle to indicate that one must be
humble to give respect to all the living beings including small creature
like a mouse.
Ganesha is the form of the cosmic energy that can be encapsulated in a magnificent form, for the benefit of the devotees.
According to Hindu mythology, Ganesha was not born by natural process. There is a very interesting story of his birth.
Once Goddess Parvati was preparing for a bath in her abode at Mt.
Kailasha. She smeared her body with turmeric paste. After some time she
peeled off the layer of turmeric paste from her body and gave it the
shape of the boy. Thereafter, she breathed life into it. She declared
that boy as her loyal son. Goddess Parvati asked the boy to be on the
guard duty at the entrance of their abode. Goddess Parvati instructed
her son that he would not allow anyone to enter inside.
After some time, Shiva returned to his abode where Ganesha was standing
and obstructed his way. Shiva did not recognize the young boy and in his
divine fury, he chopped off the Ganesha’s head and entered inside.
Goddess Parvati was shocked when she saw this. She explained to Shiva
that the boy was their son and pleaded with Shiva to save him at all
costs.
Shiva then instructed his helpers to search someone who was sleeping
with the head pointing towards north. The helpers then got the head of
an elephant, which
Shiva affixed to the boy's body and gave him the name Ganesha.
According to Genesha Purana and Mudgala Purana, Ganeha had assumed eight different incarnations such as Vakratunda, Ekadanta, Mahodara, Gajanana, Lambhodara, Vikata, Vighnaraja and Dhoomravarna...Read More
Vasant Panchami - The beginning of auspicious period
Vasant Panchami marks the onset of the spring season on the fifth day of
the waning phase of the moon in the Hindu month (Magha) that falls in
the month (Feburary –March). In 2015, Basat Pansami will fall on
24th January and auspicious time to pray to Goddess Saraswati on Basant
Panchami is 09:23:37 to 11:30:03.
Vasant Panchami is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. She is depicted as
the deity with the four hands and holding a plucked stringed instrument
called Veena in her two hands and seated on a white lotus with four
hands and wearing a pure silk white sari along with a peacock, that
signifies that wisdom suppresses ego. Four hands of the deity symbolize
the different sides of human personality in learning. Goddess Saraswati
is considered as the deity of spiritual knowledge, science, arts and
music.
Vasant Panchami is considered as an auspicious occasion for students to
start their studies, marking the new beginning of their learning period.
Schools and colleges organize special prayers to worship goddess
Saraswati. Many students place their books at the Goddess Saraswati feet
and seek her blessing for better learning.
Vasant Panchami is also called the festival of harvest as it symbolizes
blossoming flowers of mustard. Thus Yellow color has a great
significance in the celebration of Vasant Panchami. Many followers of
Goddess Saraswati adorn the idol of goddess with yellow sari. Goddess
sarawati’s devotees wear yellow attires on this day. Moreover the sweets
and dishes prepared for the festival are usually yellow and saffron in
color.
Many people offer food to Hindu priest and perform the traditional
ritual of ancestral worshipping known as the Tarpan for the peace for
all those who had passed away and seek their blessings for their future
endeavors... Read More
Maha Shivratri is one of the most important festival celebrated in India
as well as in Nepal. It is celebrated on the 14th night during the
waxing phase of the Hindu month Phalguna that falls in the month
(Feburary- March). In this festival Hindus offer special prayer to the
lord Shiva, the God of destruction.
In 2015, it will be celebrated on 17th February. The best time to offer prayers and chant mantras is 18:08 to 21:21. The people who are keeping fast must break it on the next day at 07:01 to 09:03.
Many Legends are associated with Maha Shivratri
According to Hindu Mythology, Goddess Parvati had a
severe penance to have Lord Shiva as her husband. Goddess Parvati’s
mother, Menaka saw Lord Shiva, she fell unconscious. When she saw Lord
Shiva, he had three eyes, five faces and ten arms. He had smeared his
body with ashes and his forehead was adorned by the moon. He was dressed
in a tiger’s skin and a garland of skulls hung around his neck. He was
riding on the bull. He was surrounded by the group of people with fierce
faces. No wonder if there was any other mother in the place Manaka,
would not agree to marry her dear daughter to such a person. Menuka when
regained her consciousness said that she could kill her daughter
Parvati, but she would never agree to marry her daughter Parvati to Lord
Shiva. Lord Vishnu tried to pacify Manaka but his efforts went in vain.
Later, God Narada requested Lord Shiva to appear in his beautiful form.
Once Lord Shiva appeared in his beautiful form, his body had a glitter
that was equivalent to the shine of million of suns and his clothes
embedded with gems had such a luster that stars were feeling
embarrassed. Everyone was enamored with his most beautiful form and
Manuka realized her mistake and happily agreed to marry her daughter on
the day of Maha Shivratri.
According to another legend that once Gods and Demon
decided to churn the ocean with the help of Mount Mandara as the
churning rod, and the shiva’s serpent, Vasuki as the churning rope.
During churning many treasures were being emerged which were divided
between Gods and Demons. Gods and Demons were still churning the ocean
when poison emerged then neither Gods were ready to take nor demons.At
that time Lord Shiva drank the poison and saved the world from
devastation.When Goddess Parvati came to know about it, she kept hand
towards the Lord Shiva’s neck so that it would not enter into his body.
Due to this position where Lord Shiva could not spit poison outside and
Goddess Parwati was not allowing him to swallow poison that turned Lord
Shiva’s throat blue.He came to be known as 'Neelkantha' that literally
means blue neck.
According to yet another legend that on the night of Mahashivratri Lord Shiva performed the Tandava, the dance of preservation, sustenance and destruction.
Importance of Maha Shivratri.
It is believed that the people who fast on this night and offer prayers
to Lord Shiva bring good luck into their life. If anyone wants to catch
the fervor of the festivity then he or she must visit Ujjain. According
to Hindu epics, Ujjain is place of abode of Lord Shiva. Large
processions are carried out throughout the city, ith people assemble in
huge number to catch a glimpse of the revered idol of Lord Shiva. Now
the similar possessions are carried in many parts of India such as
Delhi, Uttaraknand, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab,
Himachal Pradesh and Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Maharashtra, Karnataka,
Gujarat and Tamil Nadu... Read More
Holi is one of the most revered Hindu
festival commiserated in India on the full moon day in the month of
Phalguna according to Hindu calendar that falls in the month (Feb-March)
as per the Gregorian calendar. In 2015, Holi celebrations start on 5th
March and end on 6th March.
Holi marks the coming of spring and the time of harvesting Rabi crops such as wheat, barley, mustard, sesame and peas.
Mythological Tales Behind Holi:
There was the King Hiranyakashipu who married to the princess Kayadu.
After some time the royal couple was blessed with the sun. They named
their son ‘Prahlada’. King Hiranyakashipu got the boon that he would
neither killed by human being nor animal. King Hiranyakashipu became so
powerful that he ordered everyone in his kingdom to worship him as the
God. King Hiranyakashipu’s son Prahalada was the staunch devotee of
Vishnu and denied to worship his father as God.
King Hiranyakashipu tried to kill his son many times, but Vishu always
saved him. Once Hiranyakashipu attempted to burn his son alive by asking
his sister Holika to take Prahalada in her lap. Holika got the boon
that she would not be burnt by the fire. On the decided day, Holika sat
in the fire with Prahalada in her lap, she burnt herself and Prahalada
was saved. Vishnu again saved him. This mythological tale forms the
basis of Holika Dehan. In remembrance of the victory of Prahaladha,
bonfire is burnt in the evening prior to Holi.
The other mythological tales related to Holi are as follows:
Once there was the demon Tarkasur who had done severe penance and got
the boon from Brahma that he would be slain by the son of Shiva. After
getting the boon, Tarkasur became very powerful that he conquered all
the three worlds. There was the great problem for Gods to get their
kingdom back. Brahma told them that demon Tarkasur would be killed by
Shiva’s son.
Shiva was in deep meditation after the death of his consort Sati. He
decided that he would not marry again. Sati incarnated as the Parvati.
Parvati had performed severe penance, but Shiva didn't accept her as his
wife.
Vishnu understood the situation and thus asked Kamdeva, the God of love, to shoot arrows to invoke desire in the heart of Shiva.
Kamdeva’s arrows had not worked rather Shiva became very angry. In a fit
of rage he shot fire out of his third eye and reduced him into ashes.
This is sometimes given as the basis of Holi's bonfire.
There is yet another tale associated with the festival of Holi.
According to the tale, the young Krishna complained to his mother
Yashoda that why Radha was so fair and he so dark. Yashoda advised him
to apply color on Radha's face and see how her complexion would change.
As this festival is associated with Krishna, Holi is played with great
fervor in Vrindavan and Mathura, the two main cities which were
associated with Krishna is closely affiliated... Read More
According to Hindu Mythology, Anjana was elegant, beautiful and
supernatural females that used to dance in Indra’s palace. Anjana was
cursed and sent to the Earth. There she married to Kesari, who was the
son of Brihaspati (The teacher of all the Gods). Hindus associate
Brihaspati with the planet Jupiter. After some time, Anjana was blessed
with the divine child, Hanuman.
The blissful day of Hanuman Birthday (Hanuman Jayanti) that falls on the
full moon day during the waxing phase of the Hindu month Chaitra (March
– April). In 2015, it will be celebrated on 4th April. The auspicious
time for praying Hanuman on this special day is 07:45 - 09:18 and then
12:24-17.04.
However in Tamilnadu it would be commemorated on the new moon day of the
Tamil month Margazhi that falls in the month of December - January. In
Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, it is celebrated on the tenth day of the
waning phase of the moon in the month of Margashirsh month.
Hanuman is the staunch devotee of Rama, and he is being revered Hindu deity for unflinching devotion.
Since then, each year Hanuman Jayanti is commemorated with great
devotion. In temples, special arrangements are made to accommodate
thousands of devotees who visit there to have divine glimpse of Hanuman.
The celebrations started in the morning. Devotees read Hanuman Chalisa,
Sunderkand and prayed Hanuman to bless them with the strength,
knowledge, intellect, and divinity. They offer red or orange color
Chandan, Chandan oil, sweets to Hanuman. Hindu priest then put the red
mark (Tilak) from the idol of the Hanuman on the forehead of the
devotees and then give Prasad to them. Many devotees start singing and
dancing on the tune of the divine songs of Hanuman.
Hindus believe that if they pray to Hanuman with full devotion, then
they will be blessed with the name... Read More
Amalaki Ekadashi celebrated on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of the waxing
phase of the moon, in the Hindu month Phalgun that falls in the month of
(Feb-March). In 2015, It will be celebrated on 1st March.
How People keep fast on Amlaki Ekadhshi
The devotees take a bath in the morning. After that they water the Amla tree and then worship it. Devotees then read Amlaki Ekadashi Vrat Katha. Thereafter they donate alms to the beggars to seek their blessings.
Significance of Amlaki Ekadhshi
According to “Vishnu Puran” Amla was originated by spitting of Vishnu.
It is believed that the people who keep fast would get rid of the all
their sins. They would be blessed with good fortune equivalent to what
they would get if they donate hundred cows.
Mythological Importance of Amla that devotees worship Amla tree
Devotees worship of Amla for its mythological importance.
According to Hindu Mythological story, Vishu and his wife Lakshmi dwell in the Amla tree.
According to another Hindu Mythological story, It is believed that
Vishnu's incarnation, Krishna and his consort Radha reside near the
tree.
Scientific Importance of Amla that devotees worship Amla tree
Devotees worship of Amla for its medicinal qualities... Read More
According to the Hindu calendar, Magha month falls in the month of
January – February. This is the most revered month as the most famous
Kumbh Mela (held every 12 years) and the Magha Mela (an annual event)
takes place during this month. Triveni Sangam (a confluence of three
rivers) in Prayag or Allahabad. It is regarded as an auspicious day to
take holy bath.
Magha Purnima is commensurate on the full moon day that marks the
completion of Magha month. On this day, millions of devotees that
include saints, sages, pilgrims, travelers, underprivileged, priests
take a holy bath in the Ganga, Jamuna, Kaveri, Krishna, Tapti, etc.
Rituals
On this day, the devotees keep a fast to pay the respect to their
ancestors. They request Vishnu to liberate their deceased ancestor’s
soul by taking the dip in the holy river. They offer alms to the poor
and needy people. Many people donate cows to Hindu priest and perform
Yajna at Prayag and the request for the forgiveness of their sins.
On this day, Lord Vishnu is worshiped and just like all other Purnima day, Satyanarayana Vratham Katha is read.
People offer red Chandan powder, fruits, betel nut, banana leaves,
beetle leaves, panchamrit and Prasad to Vishnu. Panchamrit, that is
offered to Vishnu on this day, is made out by mixing Ganga water, honey,
milk, Tulsi and sweets. Prasad offered to Vishnu is prepared by
roasting the mixture of wheat and sugar together. Many religious sermons
held to celebrate the occasion at auspicious places. People also
worship Shiva, Brahma and Laxmi on this day.
Significance of the bath on Magha Purnima
It is believed that anyone, who take a bath on this revered day, would
get rid of sins and paved its the way for salvation. He or she would be
able to cleanse his or her mind and soul.
Astrological Significance of Magh Purnima
Astrologically there is a change in the position of the Sun and Moon.
Sun enters in Capricornus constellation that is popularly known as a
Capricorn Zodiac sign and the Moon enter in Cancer constellation. Thus,
taking the ritualistic bath on Magh Purnima can cure a person of all
problems related to the Sun and the Moon.
Mythological Legend associated with Magha Purnima
According to Brahmavaivartpurana, During the month of Magha, Vishnu
himself resides in the Ganga River and therefore even a touch of this
holy water can cure all sins and all diseases of a devotee... Read More
'Navratri' means 'nine divine nights’ dedicated to three deities; Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati.
The first three days of Navratri are dedicated to Goddess Shakti when
her incarnations such as Shailputri, Brahmcharñi, Chandraghanta worship
during these days. The next three days are dedicated to Lakshmi when her
incarnations such as Kathmandu, Skandamata, and Katyayani are
worshipped. The last three days are dedicated to Saraswati when her
incarnations such as Kali, Maha Gauri and Siddhidatri are worshipped.
Navaratri comes five times in a year. They are as follows:-
Vasanta Navaratri: It comes in the spring season (March–April).
Ashadha Navaratri: It comes in the month of (June–July) (Ashadha).
Sharada Navaratri: it comes in the month of September–October (Sharad).
Push Navaratri: It comes in the month of (December–January) (Paush).
Magha Navaratri: It comes in the month of (January–February) (Magha).
Out of these, the Sharada Navaratri and the Vasanta Navaratri are
celebrated with fervor and enthusiasm. Another three are secret where
prayers are offered to the divine goddess secretly by Yogis and Tantrics
fulfill their desires.
Navratri is famous almost throughout India. Though in each state, people
worship Goddess Durga in various forms under different names by
different people. However, one basic aim of this celebration is to
propitiate the Goddess in her aspect as Power and to bestow upon her
devotees with wealth, auspiciousness, prosperity, knowledge, and all
other potent powers.
It holds particular significance in the states such as J&K, Gujrat
and Bengal. In J&K people, on the first day of the Navaratri, grains
of barley known as ‘Khetri’ are planted in the earthen pot in the
prayer room of the house. Many people keep fast during these auspicious
days. Devotees read the sacred book depicting the glory of Goddess Durga
known as “Durga Saptashati”. People eat only restricted foods like,
‘makhana’, ‘kitty ate’ ‘swang rice’ and ‘sabutdaana’. They abstain
themselves from eating non-vegetarian food, smoking and drinking. On the
eighth day of Navratri also known as Ashtami, devotees invite young
girls to their home and worship them. They offer them traditional food
like Puri, Halwa and White/Black grams (channels). Many devotees gave
bangles and red chunnis to wear along with a token amount of money
called shagun. The ninth day is then called Navami, which means the
ninth day of this holy and pious period literally. On the tenth day,
these seedlings or the "Khetri” is submerged in the water. This custom
suggests a link to harvesting. The sowing and reaping of barley are
symbolic of the "first fruit.” It is believed that if devotees pray
Goddess with full devotion, they can lead to the path of their soul’s
evolution.
In Gujrat, Dandiya and Garba Rass are the highlights of the festival
In some communities, people undergo rigorous fasts during this season
that lasts for the nine days of Navratri. The festival culminates in
Mahanavami. With the time, the festival is commercialized, and the
festival has moved on to be a social festival rather than merely a
religious one. However, nothing dampens the spirit of the devout
followers of Goddess Durga, as they sing devotional songs and indulge in
the celebrations of Navratri, year by year.
Now, Let’s discuss the Vasanta Navratri in Particular. There is the legend behind Chaitra Navratri.
Long ago, there was King Dhruvasindhu, who was killed by a lion while
hunting. After that unfortunate incident, Prince Sudarshana was crowned.
Many people wanted to take the benefit of the situation, and they were,
King Yudhajit of Ujjain, father of Queen Lilavati, King Virasena of
Kalinga and the father of Queen Manorama. Each one of them wanted the
throne of Kosala, for their grandsons. Hence, they all fought with each
other. King Virasena died during the battle. On the other hand, Queen
Manorama fled to the forest with Prince Sudarshana. They took the
shelter under the protection of sage Bhardwaj. Meanwhile, King Yudhajit
won and crowned his grandson Shatrujit at Ayodhya, the capital of
Kosala. After that, he went out to look for Manorama and Sudarshana.
When King Yudhajit found both of them under the protection of the sage.
He made a plan for attacking the sage, but all his efforts were in vain.
One day, hermit approached sage place and called the prince by the name
'Kleeba'. The prince heard the first part 'Kle' and started chanting
'Kleem'. This syllable was a powerful mantra, actually the special
Mantra of the divine Goddess. Due to the divine strength of the Mantra,
the prince got blessed with a peaceful mind and the grace of the
Goddess. His continuous utterance forced Goddess to show up and hence
she appeared to him. She granted him the boon of unconquerable. She then
offered him divine weapons.
Once, the convoy of representatives of Banaras King was passing by the
ashram of the sage. They saw the prince and recommended for the daughter
of King of Benaras, Princess Sashikala.
King asked Sashikala to meet Sudarshana. She was impressed by
Sudarshana at first sight. They got married. At that time, King
Yudhajit started fighting with King of Benaras. Goddess protected
Sudarshana and turned Yudhajit and his army to ashes. After that,
Sudarshana along with his father - in – law and his wife thanked the
Goddess. Being pleased by them, Goddess asked them to revere her during
Vasanta Navratri and then vanished.
Sudarshan and Sashikala returned back to the Ashram of Rishi Bhardwaj.
Rishi blessed them and crowned the prince Sudarshana as a king of
Kosala. Sudarshana and Shashikala along with the King of Benaras further
carried out the commands of the Goddess and performed the Puja of
Goddess with proper procedure in Vasanta Navratri... Read More
In Gujrat, there is the Dwarkadhish temple and adjacent to it there
is a lake. Its soil turned into yellow clay that is famous as ‘Gopi
Chandan’. Many Devotees use Gopi Chandan to put a mark (Tiak) on their
forehead and some of them even eat it as they consider it auspicious.
There is interesting mythological story behind it:
Krishna and the Gopis were best friends. Once there was the full
moon night and Gopis went to the lake near to Dwaraka. Krishna came to
know about this by his divine power and reached there in a simple dress.
He asked Gopis to return back to their village. Gopis denied and wanted
Krishna to dance with them.
Krishna had to bow down against the stubbornness of the Gopis and
danced with them. After hours of wonderful dancing Krishna asked Gopis
to swim in a nearby lake to relieve their fatigue.
Gopis knew that they had to put away from Krishna after swimming,
that they never wanted. All of them decided to end their lives where
Krishna would not be with them. It is believed that Gopis were merged
with their beloved and the clay of the lake turned yellow.
Now, there are questions which usually devotees don’t ask
and practice of giving and eating clay is going for generations over
generations.
The questions are as follows that how they are sure that
the particular incident turned the color of the clay yellow. The next
question is that whether the clay which is given from the same
auspicious spot where the incident had occurred or from somewhere else.
Devotees offer water to the Sun in the morning, it will reach to
the Sun God. Is it the myth or not would clear from the following
incident:
Once there was the intelligent farmer
who was taking Ganga water and throwing it at the distance of 2- 3 feet
away from the Ganga Bank. Villagers asked him that why he was wasting
water, then he replied that as he was throwing water near the Ganga
Banks it would reach to his fields 10 kms away from there. People
started laughing at him that he had lost his mind. Learned farmer asked
those villagers that when they were offering water to the Sun then how
can, they would be sure that it would be reaching to Sun God.
Villagers
replied that when they offered water to the sun there was the
scientific reason behind it and cannot be compared with his activity of
wasting water in lieu of the reason that it would be rushing to his
field.
They said that they offer water to the sun
from the brass or copper vessel with raised hands and pouring thin film
of water from the height. The sun rays reached to them after filtering
from the thin film of the water that sun rays are not only excellent for
their eyes, but it would also revitalize their entire body and soul.
The other reason is that when they concentrate on the stream of the
water, then it can improve their concentration.
It
is quite clear that it is not the myth. There is the scientific reason
behind offering water to the Sun in the morning. It is the easiest way
to thanks Sun as it is one of the main reason for life on earth. So
now, if you offer water to sun you know the reason behind it.
In our daily routine, there is a fight between the spiritualism and materialism.
Materialism and Spiritualism are supposed to be of the opposite
nature. In this era of technology and innovations, materialism is on the
upper hand over the spiritualism.
In our daily routine, we mainly depend on the materialistic world.
In the morning, we get up with the help of the alarm set on the mobile
phone. Then there is a requirement of toothbrush and toothpaste to clean
our teeth. Then we require a soap / body wash and shampoo to clean our
body and hair. After that we dress up and have breakfast. We then we
leave for our place of work either in our private vehicle or public
vehicle. In our place of work we use home computers, machines or any
other devices. While returning we often visit the supermarket to get
grocery, fruit, and veggies.
We all can realize the importance of materialistic products such as
home appliances, clothes, beauty products, smart devices and then this
list can go endlessly.
It is true that researchers and scientists have made many
discoveries and inventions to make our life trouble-free and
uncomplicated.
But do you know that the Supreme Soul makes human mind that is
behind all these innovations. When you hear a song, watch a movie or
play any game then you might get the feeling of relaxation, but in
actual sense it is just for a transitory period.
Now, change your way of relaxing. Start conversing with the supreme
soul and then ask for peace, wisdom, joy and love from him. Practice
meditation that relaxes the mind and nurtures a healthy balance between
your inner and outer world. In the end, you will realize that the
happiness you will get after this practice is everlasting. In my point
of view, thus Spiritualism wins in a fight against materialism.
Charnamrit has the special significance for Hindus. Charnamrit means the
water that is used to give a bath to deities that propel down through
their lotus feet and later collected in the brass or bronze pot.
How to prepare Panchamrit?
Charnamrit is usually combined with a few leaves of Tulsi, curd,
unboiled milk, Pure Ghee, Sugar and Honey. This special combination of
Charnamrit along with above ingredients is called Panchamrit.
How to take Charnamrit/Panchamrit?
Panchamrit is kept in front of the deity in the prayer meeting at the
temple or home. When the prayers are completed, Panchamrit is dispersed
to the devotees in their right-hand cupped palm that is supported by
their left cupped palm. Devotees have Charamrit with full devotion and
then place their moistened hand over the head to give respect to the
importance of Panchamrit.
Charnamrit/Panchamrit Mantra
In temples, Hindu Priest recites one special Mantra while dispersing
Charamrit/Pachamrit to the devotees. The special Mantra is as follows:
Akalmrityuharanam Sarvadhivinasham,
Vishnudodakam Pitva Purnajanam na Vidyate.
Meaning Of Charnamrit/Panchamrit Mantra
It is believed that whosoever take Panchamrit will be blessed with the
long life, divnity and attain salvation to get rid of the vicious circle
of death and rebirth.
Preparation of Charnamrit or Panchamrit with your hands along with the divine thoughts will give you heavenly pleasure.
Ingredients for making Charnamrit:
(1) Chilled raw milk - 500 ml
(2) Fresh curd- 125 ml
(3) Sugar- 2 Tsp
(4) Basil Leaves-6-7
(5) Pure Ghee – 2 Tsp
(6) Ganga Water- 1
Method for making Charnamrit:
(1) Mix all the ingredients except basil leaves in a bowl. Stir it till the sugar gets dissolved.
(2) Add Basil leaves now... Read more
Shiva is the God of bliss, his devotees with the boon to fulfill their worldly desires.
To start off with the remedies for your problems worship Shiva first
with Chandana, Bel Patra, fruits and flowers. Hindu scriptures have
mentioned various fast for the people to solve their problems and to
fulfil their desires.
Many people unable to keep fast, for them, "Shiva Purana"suggested
some simple ways to worship Shiva with ingredients available at home.
These are the easiest remedies to solve problems of their life.
For the prosperity, offer rice grains on Shivlinga.
For the sharp memory, offer unboiled milk with sugar on Shivalinga.
For the wealth, offer a fine stream of honey and water.
For better mental and physical health, offer pigeon peas (Urad Dal) on the Shivalinga.
It is the common practice in Hindu Temples or Households to conclude
their prayers with drinking charanamrit while taking it in right palm
supported by left palm. It is considered as revered that the remained
droplets of charanamrit in hands are placed on the hairs or forehead.
Charanamrit is divine drink gathered from the lotus feet of the Hindu deities.
There are certain facts about charanamrit:
Get to know the Spritual/ Devotonal benefits of Charanamrit by Ram and Kewat story
Famous
Hindu writer Tulsidas had written one of the most revered Hindu Epic
Ramayana. He mentioned there that When God Rama, God Lakmana and Goddess
Sita were sent to exile, they had to cross River Ganges. There they met
sailor Kewat. He washed the feet of God Rama and consumed it as the
divine nectar. He said that by consuming that divine nectar liberated
not only him, but also his family. Rama blessed him and said that his
desire would definitely be fulfilled. After that incedent Kewat and his
family lived their entire life peacefully and happily. At the end their
pious soul abode to the heaven. They attained salvation i.e. get rid of
the vicious circle of birth and death.
Since then Hindu it became the regular practice for Hindu Devotees to
take Chranamrit to seek divine blessings of deities to lead toward their
goal and celebrate their each day as a festival. It is believed that if
Charamrit is taken with full devotion, it can help you get salvation... Read more
On the occasion of Janamastami, mystical Charanamrit is prepared to
give a bath to the deity of child Krishna (Bal Gopal). It flowed down to
Bal Gopal’s lotus feet and collected in the pot for offering to the
devotees as the prasad.
Ingredients:
(1) Milk - 2 cups
(2) Curd - 2 Tsp
(3) Basil Leaves - 9-10
(4) Ganga Water - 2 Tsp
(5) Sugar - 1 ½ cup
(6) Honey- 1 teaspoon
(7) Puffed Kernel (Makhana) - 12-14
(8) Cuddapah almonds (Chironjee) - 1 Tsp... Read more
Charanamrit or Panchamrit means divine nectar that is made by using
five ingredients for offering to the deities to seek their blessings for
a blissful life.
There is the special meaning of each of the Five Ingredients of the Charanamrit or Panchamrit:-
(1) Ganga Water is for the divinity as Ganga is considered as the holiest river.
(2) Cow Milk is for pure thoughts.
(3) Curd is to pass the exams of the life with flying colors... Read More
MSG The Messenger of God is the quite
controversial movie. This movie is roped into the controversies as it is
directed and acted by self-styled Godman of India, first time in the
history of Bollywood. The name of the amazing self-styled Godman is
Gurmeet Ram Rahim, who directed the movie along with Jeetu Arora under
the banner of “Hakkikat Enterprises. Pvt. Ltd”. He is the head of
social-spiritual welfare organization Dera Sacha Sauda.
In this movie, Gurmeet Ram Rahim, a self-styled Godman, who has a
significant fan following. He challenged in front of them in eradicating
social evils that include alcohol, cigarettes, drugs that have been
prevailing in the society for a long time. Those people who are involved
in the above social evils are worried about Gurmeet Ram Rahim, who has
taken control of the situation.
They conspired to kill him, but with God’s grace, nothing happened to
him. He wants to propagate a message to the youth that drugs,
cigarettes, and alcohol do not lead them anywhere. Only the name of the
God that can give solutions to their problems.
Overall, this movie is packed with social messages, sensual music, and
full of action to eradicate social evils. The best part of the movie is
that the revenue generated by it will be used for opening the Hospital
dedicated to the treatment of Thalassemia and research for HIV... read more
Hindu holy temples of India mesmerize people not only from India
but around the world. They don't only relate to the unity in the
diversity in the temples of the country, but provide the solace to mind
of the devotees who visit there. There is a believe that if one visit
temple with full devotion can surely find the solution of its problems.
There are several temples in India at every nook and corner to seek
blessings from Hindu deities. We are here giving the list of Top
Twenty famous temples in India that are most revered for ages to
strengthen the faith in the divinity.
Vaishno Devi temple is one of the revered Hindu sacred temples dedicated
to Goddess Durga located near the town of Katra at the Reasi district
in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The temple is located at an altitude
of 5300 feet, and a distance is almost 12 kilometers from Katra in
Trikuta Hills. Goddess Durga is popular in this place as Vaishno Devi,
or Vaishnavi.
This temple is a holy cave temple, which is a charge with such energy
that it helps in formulating indispensable but rare balance in a person.
This is what makes the sacred cave temple of Goddess Vaishno Devi
unique in the entire world... read more
Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi epitomizes 10,000 years of Indian
culture in all its breathtaking grandeur, beauty, wisdom an d bliss. It
brilliantly showcases the essence of India’s ancient architecture,
traditions and timeless spiritual messages. The Akshardham experience is
an enlightening journey through India’s glorious art, values and
contributions for the progress, happiness and harmony of mankind.
Akshardham complex was built in only five years through the blessings of
HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam
Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) and the colossal devotional efforts of
11,000 artisans and thousands of BAPS volunteers. Heralded by the
Guinness World Record as the World’s Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple,
the complex was inaugurated on 6 November, 2005... read more
Know the reason why Delhi is called as the house of very humanity.
People in this city come forward first to stand behind any setback to
tackle it, however. Thus, the presence of thinkers exists therein,
declaring the city a court of decision we allow them to, legally. At the
history of belief, the decision-makers were known as the seraph of God,
but to have formed at present the judiciary body living in Delhi... read more
Know the very expertise of architecture bringing up the whole attention
breathe in. Here, the capital city draws a picture of lush construction
reliable to make available the dreams come true but an elite design of
temple, at present. Chhatarpur Temple after Akshardham Temple (The
largest shrine of the country) has defined to the South Delhi eqaul to
South India features out the very attendance of marvelous temples... read more
Get to the life Charanamrit full up of boon from Lord Hanumana when to
enchant the very local hymning-Jai Ram, Jai Ram, Jai Jai Ram. Yes, the
foundation to form the soul devoted to holy spirit matters a lot, making
sure to live as a Human Being. Lord Hanumana as an elite attandance at
the court of Lord Rama personalizes to have been recognizing the sole
ardent devotee has diminished the size of flies for Death & Life... read more
The KalkaJi temple is also known as the “Manokamna Siddhi Peeth” or the
“Jayanti Peetha.” Manokamna here means ‘wish’, ‘Siddha’ means
fulfillment & ‘Peetha’ means shrine which means it is regarded as
the place where devotees are definite to get their hands full up of
blissful contentment by taking the blessings of Goddess Kalika Devi.
Many devotees visit this temple to meditate and raise their soul to
higher level of spiritual progress. It enables them to control anger,
hunger, thirst, hatred, ego, concentration, psychic faculties, and
desire for sex... read more
Attributing to have the faith of flag in New Delhi, Jhandewalan Temple
has its significance, after the prayers by flags in the Mughal period
came in vision. Inscribed in history, this temple in New Delhi exists as
one of the ancient temples, dedicated to Goddess Shakti. Taking place
on the Jhansi Road in New Delhi, Jhandewalan Temple witnesses to appear a
beehive of devotees most at Navaratra, and making sure to Metroes do
not sleep at mid-night too at the festive occasions... read more
Thanks to Lord Haanumana to have been residing at Delhi till the period
of epic- Mahabharata. Indeed, temple also becomes as the puzzle-piece to
accomplish the image of history too. Whereas, the country formed itself
mattering a lot, history is what people see concretely such as Bal
Hanumana Temple in Connaught Place of New Delhi. The outline of masses
in Bal anumana Temple witnesses to call the country is as the tumbler to
quench the people taking in the revitalization of their means to live... read more
Sometime, turning out the pages of history brings its readers closer to
their originality of living. At this junction, India to have been an
Incredible India results aquainting the laity stand by the saga you
believe in. As a whole, the architecture of any region comes out as
prologue to its readers, making clear-cut the very endeavors of our
forerunners. Here, the incomparable presence of shrines has shaped to
the country better than others, having been witnessed to disclose the
style of living such as temples in South India befalls as an structural
design of their traditions... read more
Blessed with the spiritual spirits, the capital city of India has its
priceless page in the history, availing the very footmarks of deities
reliable to have been pleasing to the Delhities a lot. Here, Lord Kal
Bhairav Temple (a fierce form of Lord Shiva), adjacent to Old Fort, in
New Delhi is known as “Pandav Kaleen Sri Kilkari Bhairav Temple”... read more
Really, living to the next one to live long is as an essence of godly
presence. The vital attendance of deities-like figures in the world is
none other than the seraph of God cementing the Humanism at the very
deep of moral ethics. Here, the Lord Shiva to have been saving the
humankind for a long time absorbs the electricity liable to crumble the
linga (manifestation of Lord Shiva) in the Kullu of Himachal Pradesh.
Thus, the site, Lord Shiva is worshipped to bless the adorers come rid
of their disturbances, is known as the Bijli Mahadev Temple in the
valley of Kullu in Himachal Pradesh. Dedicated to the Lord Shiva, this
Bijli Mahadev Temple is believed to be safeguarding by the stone-made
Nandi. Appeared out as the most eye-catching scenario, this
Pahari-styled architecture is fallen amidst the greenery Himalayas... read more
Fruitful of devotional entities, India is been an abode for spiritualism
drawing an image of heaven visible, wherein the compilation of living
is under the godly boons. As a whole, the country to have been
enlivening the humanity is all set to have drawn the people all over the
globe therein in getting in the home of God. Yes, the laity as usual of
their regulars ought to step in the temples, considering their very
initiative to trigger the day. As a result, the constant mass of
devotees at the specific dots of the country such as Himachal Pradesh
maintains to the every year busy of devotional trips. Here, Mandi to get
known as the Kashi of the Hills has the massive attendance of the
temples, making itself devoted for the Lord Shiva’ family. Meaning that
the Mandi is the address of Lord Shiva, and is as the earthly home after Benaras for the Lord Shiva... read more
Really, the abodes for the destroyer of the universe (Lord Shiva) in the
country come to have been more than stars in the Galaxy. Lord Shiva to
have been known as the sole father of the entire creatures on the earth
has his home at each heart, blessing to his devotee get rid of any sort
of tribulation. Here, Mandi to appear out as the Kashi of the Hills
comes in vision to have comprised more than 80 temples, naming itself
the very devotional site of the Hinduism after the Kashi in Benaras. The
Triloknath Temple in the Old Mandi renders to the Indian history “A
journey to divinely addresses”, getting itself one of the most ancient
temples of Mandi... read more
Serving to the foods before the God comes out Prasad, while the
footmarks of God render to the land as India. Indeed, the country to
have been perpetuating the addresses of spiritual essence such as
Goddess Maa has her residences all over the country and across too.
As usual, the focal component to run the body is known as the heart
comes shaping of Goddess Maa in the virtual world. Here, Goddess
Chamunda Temple in Himachal Pradesh to safeguard the humanity all cuts
of sword over the evil forces... read more
India to have been witnessing the footmarks of invaders is known as the
"Sone ki Chidiya", storing the focal points expected for the people a
lot. The spate of wealth, moral ethics and the great hospitality have
differed to the India off to the world, in entrancing to the people come
to India. Here, Mahmud Gazni, and Firoz Shah Tuglaq were the faces to
have ransacked at the country many time, pocketing by the assets India
was called Sone ki Chidiya from. Brajeshwari Temple in the old Kangra
township of Himachal Pradesh subjects to have been looted by the
invaders, explaining to the country a bank of limitless contentment,
really... read more
As a whole, the God as the Shepherd to browse the sheep of the earthly
ground smiles after he sees us trained to confront the materialistic
blow of tribulations. The godly essence on the earth to have been
enabling the living creatures do their functions well has opened its
coaching centers (Temples) to accentuate the Humanism. India to have
shaped itself as an abode of devotional entities draws a beautifully
scenic address of God, considering to its states are the allies to show
the godly homes. Here, Bhimakali Temple in the Mandi district of
Himachal Pradesh renders a home for the Goddess Kali (the softening
heart mother in the world). Located at the bank of Beas River on Mandi
Pathankot National Highway, this Bhimakali Temple is the most attraction
to the tourist visiting this religious site when they come in the
Mandi. Coming out as the most devotion to the Hinduism, this Bhimakali
Temple gets itself dissimilar of Northern India magnetizing to the
people through its structural design... read more
Incredibly, the enigma of India has handed over the chaste imagination
of the whole world, drawing a picture people may find themselves none
other than a tiger of rich source to live in. Making the eye replete of
experience about India, the world gets to the country at the Map a sole
destination of divine soothing.
Whereas, Uttar Pradesh lands down the very footprints of Lord Vishnu and
Goddess Lakshmi at Ayodhya, this northern part of India has pitched an
interest of devotees come to Vrindavan is as the Search-Engine to the
spiritual belief as a whole... read more
No more acquaintance about the country after a visit for Varanasi makes
its visitors encyclopedic of holy spirits. Making cipher of attendance
in considering the God, India is what induces to the world know it
Incredible to its immense belief at divine essence. Here, Varanasi to
have been the first address on the earth having the God visible therein
comes at the very priority when to name for Lord Shiva. Flowing the
holy-water to bless the devotees, Lord Shiva in Varanasi has his
presence vital to have cemented to its holy city his most abode to his
adorers go to heaven after a door-bell at his abode, indeed... read more
Experience the inhalation is as the just attendance of God within. The
plenary substance on the earth dances at the tempo of divine soul to
perpetuate the humanity all. Subjectively, India all over the globe
brings itself dissimilar to the other countries, in manner to sermonize
the very words of Gods. Here, Varanasi of India has drawn a line direct
to Heaven for Hindus, availing the address of God, indeed. Sankat Mochan
Temple in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, renders as one of the
sacred temples in Varanasi, on the Assi River... read more
Indeed, the vibration under the feet of devotees at Vrindavan shapes
them groove their body to dance after they consider it a place for Lord
Krishna. Yes, Vrindavan to have drafted a Paradise where the devotees
are likely to get the address of their God in. Here, Banke Bihari Temple
in Vrindavan of Mathura District of Uttar Pradesh has been one of the
most vibrant temples amassing the huge number of devotees in the month
of Shraavana (July-August), dedicated to Lord Krishna... read more
One must plan a pilgrimage holiday of the temples of India to realize the quintessence of the mysterious spiritual land of India.
