Top 5 Mudras

1- Vitarka Mudra

When the deity is seen in the Vitarka mudra means joining the tips of the thumb and the index finger together and rest three fingers straight. Sometimes the middle finger and thumb touch, which is a gesture of great compassion. If the thumb and ring finger touch, they express the mudra of good fortune. This mudra signifies the gesture of teaching and the discussion.

Vitarka Mudra is performed by the people to get the following benefits:

• Increase the ability to take the right decision. 
• Calm the mind
• Leading towards the situation of intellectual conversation in the mind and bring the mind into a state of silent wisdom.
• To overcome the obstacles and face them bravely
• Peace and forgiveness

2- Janana Mudra

Janana means intelligence or right judgment or the wisdom. When the deity is seen  when the tips of the thumb and the index finger  together, forming a circle, and the hand is held with the palm inward toward the heart. In another variant tip of the thumb and index finger forming the circle is kept on the lap. In yet another variant tip of thumb and index finger is touching together. There is one more variant where the thumb and the finger is joined and place the hands on the knees, with the palms downwards.

Here, the index finger is represented as the ego and thumb is associated with the fire God. When the thumb and index finger forms the circle means the ego can be burnt with the association with fire. Little finger, ring finger and biggest finger  represent the body, mind and soul respectively. It  implies that we should give least importance  to the body, more to the mind and the most to the Soul.

Jnana Mudra is performed by the people to get the following benefits:

• To realize the importance of body, mind and soul and their relativeness with each other.
• To ease down the nervous tension from the body
• To improve memory
• To cure Insomnia
• To develop creativity
• To attain mental peace
• To regulate the flow of air in the body

3- Vajra Mudra

When the deity is seen in Vajra Mudra means, fist is made by the right hand excluding the index finger.  The index finger extends in the upward direction. After that, the fist is made by the left hand enclosing the index finger of the right hand. The left-handed people perform this mudra with their left hand wrapped around the right index finger.

When the deity is seen in the gesture of the Vajra Mudra means a blazing lightning (fiery thunderbolt). It signifies the five elements: air, water, fire, earth, and metal. It also implies the  gesture of knowledge.

Vajra Mudra is performed by the people to get the following benefits... Read More

Top 5 Holi Songs (Rasiya) with lyrics

Holi is the festival of colors. It's time to celebrate the festival with joy. But without music there always something missing so to complete the essence of the Holi.

There are few interesting and humorous Holi songs to get into full Holi mood and impress your loved once.

1) Rang Barse Lyrics

Rang barse.. bheege.. chunar wali rang barse

Arey keene maari pichkaari, tori bheegi angiya

O rangrasia rangrasia, ho!

Rang barse, arey rang barse bheege chunar wali rang barse...

Rang barse...

Sone ki thaari mein jyona parosa

Arey! sone ki thaari mein jyona parosa

Arey, khaaye gauri ka yaar, Balam tarse, rang barse

O, Rang barse bheege chunar wali, rang barse...

Launga ilaichi ka

Arey launga ilaichi ka bhai

(Haan, Launga ilaichi ka)

Arey launga ilaichi ka beeda lagaya

Haan, launga ilaichi ka beeda lagaya

Arey chaabe gauri ka yaar, balam tarse, rang barse

O, Rang barse bheege chunar wali, Rang barse...

Arey! Bela chameli ka... sej bichhaya

Arey! Bela chameli ka sej bichhaya

Bela chameli ka sej bichhaya (Bela chameli ka sej bichhaya)

Arey! Bela chameli ka

Haan, Bela chameli ka sej bichhaya

Sove gauri ka yaar, balam tarse, rang barse... Read More

Names of 108 Parashurama Kshetra

Parashurama is an incarnation of Vishnu. He was born on the Earth, to sage Jamadagni and his wife, Renuka. Parshurama took the severe penance to seek the blessings of Shiva. Pleased with a devotion, Shiva gave axe(Parsha) to Parshurama.

Once there was a king called Kartaviryarjuna. He wanted to take away powerfully the Kamadhenu cow that was in the protection of sage Jamadagni. As the sage did not permit Parshurama’s brutal act, Kartaviryarjuna killed Jamadagni. When Parashurama came to know the fact, he realized that the autocrats were misusing their power. So he fought with Kartaviryarjuna and killed him. He further killed the misbehaving rulers of 21 generations.

Subsequently, Parshurama worshipped Lord Shiva. He asked for the wrath on what he wanted to focus on. Afterwards, with the divine order, he threw his axe into the sea to retrieve the land from the ocean as far as the axe went. Thus, the retrieved land is called ‘Parashurama Kshetra’ or Parshurama Land. This land extends from Gokarna in the north to Suchindram in the south of Kerala. Around108 places in this land, Parshurama worshipped Shiva. At each place, the temple is constructed. The scenic beauty of these temples is memorizable. The journey to these temples would be a wonderful experience!

The follwoing temples are given below:

Temples District

1 ) Cherthalai (Velorevattam) Alappuzha

2 ) Chittukkulam (Thrichattukulam) Alappuzha

3 ) Pattinikkad (Pattanakkad) Alappuzha

4 ) Kumbhasambhavamandiram (Chenganur) Alappuzha

5 ) Kandiyoor Alappuzha

6 ) Cherthala (Nalpathenneeshwaram) Alappuzha

7 ) Gokaranam Dakshin Karnataka - (Karnataka State)

8 ) Chowwara Ernakulam

9 ) Thrikkariyur Ernakulam

10 ) Ernakulam Ernakulam 

Read More 

Goddess Kali Mata Kalighat Shakti Peeth mandir

Kalighat Shakti Peeth as the sole shrine to have been devastating entire devil spirits from the world goes to the female version of color-Black is Goddess Kali Maa. Goddess Kali Maa is as the huge religious belief in Calcutta, having a rich history of Goddess Shakti over killing Asuras when needed.

Kalighat Shakti Peeth, known as the 51 Shakti Peethas, has a huge attendance of Goddess Kali Maa’ worshippers every time. Kalighat whereon Goddess Kali Maa Temple (Kalighat Kali Temple) is a blessing to the worshippers get free of all negative spirits.

Also, known as the most merciful deityin Hinduism,  Goddess Kali Maa  cares most to its worshippers ever. Goddess Kali Maa (form of Goddess Shakti) and Lord Nakuleesh (form of Lord Shiva) in Kalighat Shakti Peeth has exclusively drafted an image religious of Calcutta.

History:

Kalighat Shakti Peeth to have been an uniqueness in Calcutta whereon Goddess Shakti’ right leg fingers fell subjects to Kalighat Kali Temple, intuitively. As history is concerned, Kalighat Temple was as a small hut, but the present temple was built by the Sabarna Roy Choudhury family of Barisha in 1809.

Offering  595 bighas of land to the Kali Temple, he with the very priority kept in mind to worship could be continued easily. Though, the entire breed of human bows down their head at Kalighat to pay patronage to the Goddess Kali Maa.

Two saints-Brahmananda Giri and Atmaram Giri with the incredible hands crafted to the present... Read More


 

Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple

Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple is located near historical Saniwar Wada fort. This fort was the administrative headquarters of Peshwas. It is the well - known temple in Maharashtra and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. Devotees of the temple include celebrities and politicians such as Chief Ministers of Maharashtra. They attended the annual ten-day Ganesh festival.

Temple's simple and elegant Architecture:

Temple architecture catches glimpse of the devotees from outside. The beautiful design done inside and outside is worth seeing, and hence people from all over the country often visit this temple. The gateway of the temple is huge and allows many devotees to walk in together through comfortably. The brightness and decoration of the temple stand splendid.

The idol of the Dagdusheth Ganpati is decorated with precious gold jewellery offered by devotees as the token of affection and love. The idol is a masterpiece of sculpture and is 4 feet wide and 7.5 feet tall. It has gold ears, which are richly decorated with almost 8 kgs. of gold.

Festival:-

The 107 year old Shrimant Dagdusheth Ganesh Festival is the jewel in the crown of Maharashtra’s long history of the community Ganesh festival. Initially this festival was organized and managed by Suvarnayug Tarun Mandal but later it is being organized by Dagdusheth Ganesh Trust.

It is distinguished by its endeavor to uphold Maharashtra’s cultural heritage. The vastness and splendor with which it is celebrated and its concerted efforts to keep the torch that Lokmanya Tilak lighted, burning bright.

This ten-day festival celebrated in the temple with great devotion and religious fervor. Many famous singers are invited for singing devotional songs. Various cultural programs and fairs are organized during this... Read More

108 namavali of Lord Ganesh

108 Names of the Lord Ganesha

According to Hindu Mythology, Hindu’s favorite God Ganesha is revered by 108 names by chanting Mantra associated with each name and its meaning. There is the belief that if people chant specific Mantra would imbibe that particular quality in them.

Name                         Meaning                                    Mantra

Gajanana                   (Elephant-Faced Lord )              OmGajananaNamah

Ganadhakshya           (Lord of All Ganas (Gods)         OmGanadhakshyaNamah

Vighnaraja                (Lord of All Hindrances )           OmVighnarajaNamah

Vinayaka                   (Lord of All )                              OmVinayakaNamah

Dvaimatura               (One who has two Mothers)       OmDvaimaturaNamah

Dvimukha                 (Lord with two Heads )               OmDvimukhaNamah

Pramukha                  (Supreme Head of the Universe  OmPramukhaNamah


read more.......

Holika Dahan - victory of the good over evil

Holika Dahan 2015 - victory of the good over evil.

‘Holika Dahan’ is the festival often called as ‘Choti Holi’ also. This festival is celebrated in the Hindu month Phalguna that falls in the month of March – April as per the Georgian Calender. This festival is associated with the victory of the good over evil.

Way to Perform the Prayers On The Occasion Of Holi

In the year 2015, Holika Dahan will be celebrated on 5^th march and best auspecious time for the prayer is as follows:

Holika Dahan Muhurta = 18:19 to 20:48

Duration = 2 Hours 29 Mins

Bhadra Punchha = 05:36 to 06:56

Bhadra Mukha = 06:56 to 09:09

Next day i.e. 6^th March will be celebrated as Rangwali Holi and the auspicious time for the prayer is as follows:

Rangwali Holi Muhurta= 06:45 to 11:06

Duration = 4 Hours 21 Mins

There is a very exciting saga behind it:

Once there was the dominating king Hiranyakashyapu who got the boon from Lord Vishnu that made him indestructible, which made him believe that he was the most powerful person and thus asked his citizens to worship him. He had Son Prahlad, who was the devotee of Lord Vishnu. He worshiped Lord Vishnu and not his father and thus disobeyed his order to worship him. Hiranyakashyapu became angry and wanted his son to be killed. He tried to push his son from high mountains, and then he attempted to kill him by giving him poison, but Lord Vishnu saved him. At last he asked his sister Holika to enter a blazing fire with Prahlad in her lap. Holika had a boon that if she sat in the fire with the gifted shawl, she would be immune to fire. She misused her boon for killing his brother’s son that was not justified. Finally shawl was shifted from her aunt Holika to him and thus Holika was burnt to ashes, and Prahlad was saved. Many people believe that Holikadehan would help to void away the evil spirits.

Since then, each year, the bonfire has been burnt, and special prayers are offered by the devotees.

How to offer special prayer on the eve of Holika Dahan ..... read more

Goddess Chaturshringi Temple

Mystical Temple in Pune

Chaturshringi temple is one of the most revered temples in Pune. It is located on the slope of a Chaturshringi hill on Senapati Bapat Road. Chaturshringi (Chatur means four) is a hill with four peaks well-known as Chaturshringi. One can have the breathtaking view of the busy Pune city from these peaks of Chaturshringi.

One can have the breathtaking view of the busy Pune city from the hilltop of Chaturshringi.

According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Chaturshringi manifested herself in various forms such as Kali, Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Ambareshwari.

There is a believe that the one visiting Pune should not forget to seek the blessings of Goddess Chaturshringi, the presiding deity of the temple.

One has to climb hundred steps to visit the temple premises. There are also shrines of Ganesha and Durga. The Ganesha shrine includes eight miniature idols of Astvinayaka.

Festivals

Navratri, Diwali, Holi, Chaitra Padwa, Holi, Ganesh Festival are the main festivals celebrated by Chaturshringi temple trust.

During the festivals, temple trust arranged for the food stalls, drinking water, merry go round and other rides for children. Many other stalls are erected for the sale of religious articles such as idols of Hindu deities, incense sticks, Prasad, sacred books and many other items.

For the safety of the devotees, temple trust arranged for the special security.

Trust invites artists to sing devotional songs and deliver religious discourses and many other cultural & literature... Read More

Goddess Manasa Shakti Peeth Temple

Mansa Shakti Peeth, devoted to Goddess Mansa, befalls atop the Bilwa Parvat on the Sivalik Hills in Haridwar in Uttrakhand state of India. Mansa Shakti Peeth (called as Goddess Mansa Temple) as the most visited temples in Haridwar is as the very emergence to fulfill the desires to its adorers. Here, Goddess Mansa (form of Goddess Shakti) and Lord Amar (form of Lord Shiva) comes subjective of Mansa Shakti Peeth.

With the massive hoard of worshippers thereon, Goddess Chandi Temple and Goddess Maya Temple are been the major attractions to have befallen nearby Goddess Mansa Temple.

History:

Mansa Shakti Peeth, whereon Goddess Shakti’ right palm fell, has the priceless presence naming Goddess Mansa Temple. Goddees Mansa Temple (also known as one the Panch Tirth) boosts to the saintly rituals of Haridwar. Also, the very incredible course from River Ganga blesses to the adorers coming for Goddess Mansa Temple.

With the boon from Goddess Mansa, adorers by Cable Car (Udan Khatola) make their attendance just at front to Godees Mansa Temple. Indeed, an adventurous trek through Cable Car is as the illusion od dreams everyone dreams of.

Places of Interest:

Goddess Chandi Temple:

Goddess Chandi Temple, positioned atop the Neel Parvat on the Eastern summit of the Sivalik Hills, Haridwar, is meant to Goddess Chandi Devi. Falling near... Read More

Goddess Sugandha Shakti Peeth Temple

Sughanda Shakti Peeth as one of 52 Shakti Peethas, located in Shikarpur Village, around 20 Kms. from Barisal in Bangladesh, lies down on the banks of the River Sunanda.

Here, a large number of worshippers make their attendance at Goddess Sughanda Temple in Shikarpur Village and to Lord Triambak (form of Lord Shiva) in Ponabalia.        

History:

Sughanda Shakti Peeth in Bangladesh (Sub-continent of India) as the most saintly hindu shrine to have been blessing the adorers live with the very contentment of lives comes subjecting most when Goddess Shakti is recited thereon. Meaning that... Read More

Balambika

Balambika- The Child Goddess of Knowledge

Shri Balambika is a Hindu goddesses, majorly worshipped in South India, especially in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. She is a 9 year old manifestation of Lalitha Tripura Sundari Devi and child of Sri Lalita Devi. She is worshipped for knowledge and wisdom. Though she is a nine year old Goddess, praised for her innocence and beauty, she is also known for her courage and battle skills.

Triumph over Asura Bhanda and his Sons

The Sakthi army was living in a beautifully built fire-walled fortress, which was protected by deities. Bhanda, a powerful Asura lived nearby and was scared of the new power. He made war strategies with his sons and commanders. He believed their strength was unmatchable and could surely destroy an army of women. Though he knew it was unfair to send men against women but he had an insatiable thirst for power. His sons were extremely powerful and wanted to destroy all the weapons and fire-walled fortress. They also had an urge of capturing Sri Lalitha Devi and swallow her army.

Sensing the evil deeds of Bhanda’s sons, Goddess Balambika requested her mother to let her participate in the war. She didn’t get permission at first as she was only nine years old and losing her was not an option for her mother but looking at her bravery and strong determination, she was allowed to participate in the war. She was given an armour and weapons and rode a chariot yoked with swans. She soon broke the will of the asuras and gave them a shameful defeat. She killed each of Bhanda’s son individually and pierced their heads with her arrows.

Balambika’s Beauty

Balambika had four arms and has a small circle made by aalta on each palm. She holds a book in one hand, symbolizing knowledge and education and a japa mala, symbolizing spirituality, in another. Her innocent face is said to emit glow. Her eyes are like sun spreading light in all the directions. Her diamond nose pin is famous among her devotes.

Legend

According to a legend Goddess Balambika wanted to marry Lord Shiva and wanted to devote her complete life to him. She sat under a Vanni tree and started meditating. Lord Shiva did want to marry her but after a confusion created by Narad Muni, the marriage... Read More

Bahuchara Mata

Bahuchara Mata- The Goddess of Fertility

Bahuchara Mata, also known as Bedhraj Mata is worshiped by either woman who are seeking for a baby, man who wants to keep impotency at bay or hijra or transgender community. She is a Hindu Goddess who rides a rooster and carries a trident in one hand and scripture in another. She also stands for non-violence and innocence and is impressed by her worshiper’s selfless devotion. To prove their worth to Goddess Bahuchara, males cut off their genitals and dress up as a woman and become her ardent followers. They sing and dance for her and take her name in a repetitive mode.

Myths related to Bahuchara Mata

Bahuchara Mata was born in the Charan caste, which is known for its honor. It is believed that Bahuchara Mata was travelling in a caravan with her sisters when a bandit named Bapiya tried to molest her. She neither subjected to his will nor did she try to kill herself. She rather made a point by cutting off her breast, thus shedding her femininity. Her act was to save herself from any kind of sexual harassment and also to curse Bapiya with impotency. As Charan caste was against violence, she asked Bapiya to attain penance by dressing like a woman and behaving like one, thus ultimately shedding his masculinity.

Since then Bahuchara Mata has become the patronage Goddess of hijras. They feel solace in her dedication and find blessings in myths of Hindu tradition based on their community. Because of their attachment to Bahuchara Mata, hijras are believed to have the power of cursing a kid with impotency. Therefore they visit every house with a new born baby and bless him only if they are treated nicely and respected and are given some shagun.

Adhanari

The cutting of genitals and dressing like woman also symbolizes the concept of Adhanari, depicted by Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Any woman is incomplete without her other half, the man and vice-a versa. Therefore respect of every gender and acceptance of both feminine and masculine qualities... Read More

Goddess Mahakali Jaintia Shakti Peeth Temple

Jayantia Shakti Peeth, positioned at Kalajore Baurbhag village of Falzur Pargana under Jayantia Thana of Sylhet district, Bangladesh, is also known as Falizur Kalibari. Herein, Goddess Shakti is worshipped as Jaynatia and Lord Shiva as Kramadeeshwar.

Located along Jaynati River, Jayanti Temple, surrounded by forest, mountains and river, befalls near to Lord Shiva Temple-Mahakaal Temple is in three closest caves. In the first cave, there are idols of the Brahma-Vishnu-Maheshwar trinity.

In the second, there is one of Lord Shiva and in the third, that comes of Goddess Mahakali.

History:

Jaynatia Shakti Peeth, whereon Goddess Shakti’ left thigh had fallen, gets... Read More

Goddess Aparna Devi Karota Shakti Peeth Temple

Karota Shakti Peeth as an incarnation of Goddess Shakti in Bhabanipur at Karatoyatat, 28 km distance from interior Sherpur upazila, Bogra District, Bangladesh comes as a significant place of pilgrimage for Hindus.

Also, there appear the numerous temples at Karota Shakti Peeth’ premises are indeed answerable by pilgrims to have been founding their footmarks devoted to Goddess Aparna Temple, with no disregard of sectarian differences, from all over the country as well as abroad.

Goddess Aparna (form of Goddess Shakti) and Lord Vaman Bhairav (form of Lord Shiva) are as the sole embodiment of Karota Shakti Peeth.

History:

Karota Shakti Peeth, having the massive presence of its worshippers, comes in vision after the very saintly saga of Goddess Shakti makes its priceless presence. Reasoning that Goddess Shakti’ sole of her left foot had fallen where the phase of bowing down from the entire Hindu Parivaar persents on.

As known that The Nator king used to meditate here and as... Read More
 

Relationship between Holi and Divinity

Holi is one of the most revered festivals of India. It is celebrated in the different part of India for various reasons. First reason that Holi is celebrated as spring festival as it is commemorated on the onset of spring season when people welcome summer and bid farewell to winters.

Another reason for the celebration is to exercise control over the emerging passion. According to Hindu Mythological story, God Kamadeva tried to distract Shiva by hitting his flower-tipped arrows of Love. This incident infuriated Shiva, and he burned Kamadeva into ashes. Holi is thus the festival to celebrate love, but never get swayed away with it. Holi is thus the festival of the celebration of divinity and discipline over passion.

There is yet another reason that has been mention in Puranas. It mentions about the legend behind the celebration of Holi.
The legend goes as follows...

Long time ago there was innocent, pure, and divine prince Prahlad. He was the child of Demon King Hiranyakashipu. He was the staunch devotee of Vishnu. Hiranyakashipu was the powerful... Read More

Amazing Mythgological Story of the Birth of Kauravas

According to most famous Hindu epic Mahabharata, Devavrata, the eighth son of Kuru King Shantanu. One day Shantanu, the Kuru king of Hastinapur, came to the forest on a hunting trip and saw Satyavati. He was mesmerized by her beauty; fell in love, at first sight. Shantanu reached a Satyavati's house. The king asked the fisherman chief for his daughter's hand; the fisherman Dusharaj said his daughter would marry the king if and only if her daughter’s sons would inherit the throne.

The king felt shocked and dejected. He returned to the palace since he had already his son, Devavrata, as heir apparent to the throne of Hasitinapura. Devavrata was distressed by his father's condition; he learned about the promise asked by the fisherman chief from a minister. Immediately, Devavrata rushed to the hut of the fisherman chief and begged for Satyvati's hand on his father's behalf. The fisherman repeated his condition.

He had sworn that he would not be king of Hastinapur, but he would serve as the ruling Kuru king.  Due to Devavrata’s promise, he was given the name Bhishma.

Satyavati gave birth to the two sons of Shantanu: Chitrangada and Vichitravirya. Bhishma crowned Chitrangada as the king under Satyavati's command. Chitrangada was later killed by a namesake Gandharva (a celestial musician).

After Chitrangada's death, his young brother Vichitravirya was crowned king, while Bhishma ruled on his behalf (under Satyavati's command) until Vichitravirya grew up.

Vichitravirya married the princesses of Kashi-Kosala: Ambika and Ambalika, who were won by Bhishma in a Swayamvara (marriage choice). The childless Vichitravirya met with an untimely death from tuberculosis.

Satyavati asked Bhishma to marry Ambika and Ambalika. He said that he remembered that vouched of bachelorhood. Satyavati then asked Sage Vyas to help her. Vyasa agreed to visit Hastinapura Palace.

Satyavati informed Ambika of Vyasa's visit and advised her that she should welcome the sage accordingly for the purpose of obtaining an heir to the throne of Hastinapura. Ambika accepted and was willing to comply with the instructions she received.

Later that night, Vyasa entered the chambers of Ambika. She became terrified at the sight of the sage. Using his Yogmaya or his illusionary powers to impregnate her, she closed her eyes in fright. She kept her eyes closed for the entire duration of the encounter.

When Satyavati asked Vyasa next morning how things went, he said to her that a very strong and learned son would be born to Ambika. However, because she closed her eyes at the time of her conception, the child would be born blind.

This was very disappointing news for Satyavati and so she now instructed Vyasa to impregnate Vichitravirya's second wife, Ambalika. Satyavati advised Ambalika not to close her eyes and she did not. However, at the sight of Vyasa, she became pale.

When Vyasa was done, he reported back to his mother and told her that Ambalika would have a son who would be handsome and brave, but because she became pale at the time of impregnation her son would also be pale.

Satyavati was still disappointed and told Vyasa that after Ambika gives birth to the child that he should return and impregnate her once more so that she will also have a son with eyesight. Vyasa agreed and then left for the forest.

In time both queens Ambika and Ambalika gave birth to their sons and as Vyasa had said, one was blind and the other was pale. The blind son was named Dhritarashtra and the pale one was named Pandu.

Then Satyavati again sent for Vyasa and she warned Ambika to be careful this time. She reminded her that her son was born blind because of her mistake. Ambika was willing once more and accepted the advice. However, as she tried, she could not have the courage and the bravery to face Vyasa. So she sent her maidservant instead.

The maid served the sage with attention and devotion. The next morning Vyasa told Satyavati that a son who would be the replica of the Dharma would be born, but he will be born to the maid because it was she who spent the time with him. He then gave blessings to all and departed once again.

The son born to the maid was named Vidura. All three boys received education under the guidance of Bhishma. Dhritarashtra was strong, Pandu was good at archery, and Vidura was wise. Pandu was appointed as the ruler even though Dhritarashtra was elder. This was so because the Shastras (Hindu’s revered scriptures) forbids the appointment of a king who has a disability. Pandu ruled the kingdom with assistance from Vidura who was appointed as the Chief Minister.

Bhishma eventually had the task of selecting brides for them Dhritarashtra married Gandhari who out of devotion to her husband decided to tie a scarf around her eyes so that she too would be blind to the world and Pandu married Madri, the princess from Madra.
He wanted Pandu, the king of Hastinapur, to get married. Kunti, the adopted daughter of King Kuntibhoja, chose Pandu as her husband and was married to him. Princess Madri of Madra also Married  to the Pandu. 

Gandhari, the princess of Gandhara kingdom, was chosen as the bride for Dhritarashtra. Dhritarashtra was blind, and Gandhari did not want to be better than her husband in any respect. So she tied a silk bandage on her eyes and pledged never to remove it. A suitable bride was also chosen for Vidura, the minister of Hastinapur, who was raised as a brother of Pandu and Dhritarashtra.

As time passed, Kunti gave birth to three sons Yudhistira, Bhima and Arjuna. Madri gave birth to twins and name Nakula and Sahadeva. As these five were the sons of Pandu, they are called the Pandavas (Yudhishtra, Bheema, Arjuna, Nakula or Sahadeva).

Gandhari wanted a hundred children so she prayed to Vyasa who granted her the boon. But Gandhari gave birth to a lump of flesh. Vyasa cut this lump into hundred and one pieces, which formed hundred boys and one girl. These children of Dhritarashtra were called the Kauravas as they belonged to the Kuru dynasty. The names of Kauravas are as follows:

1. Duryodhanan
    
2. Dussaasanan
    
3. Dussahan
    
4. Dussalan
    
5. Jalagandhan
    
6. Saman
    
7. Sahan
    
8. Vindhan
    
9. Anuvindhan
    
10. Durdharshan
     
11. Subaahu
     
12. Dushpradharshan
     
13. Durmarshanan
     
14. Durmukhan
     
15. Dushkarnan
     
16. Vikarnan
     
17. Saalan
     
18. Sathwan
     
19. Sulochanan
     
20. Chithran
     
21. Upachithran
     
22. Chithraakshan
     
23. Chaaruchithran
     
24. Saraasanan
     
25. Durmadan
     
26. Durvigaahan
     
27. Vivilsu
     
28. Vikatinandan
     
29. Oornanaabhan
     
30. Sunaabhan
     
31. Nandan
     
32. Upanandan
     
33. Chithrabaanan
     
34. Chithravarman
     
35. Suvarman
     
36. Durvimochan
     
37. Ayobaahu
     
38. Mahaabaahu
     
39. Chithraamgan
     
40. Chithrakundalan
     
41. Bheemavegan
     
42. Bheemabalan
     
43. Vaalaky
     
44. Belavardhanan
     
45. Ugraayudhan
     
46. Sushenan
     
47. Kundhaadharan
     
48. Mahodaran
     
49. Chithraayudhan
     
50. Nishamgy
     
51. Paasy
     
52. Vrindaarakan
     
53. Dridhavarman
     
54. Dridhakshathran
     
55. Somakeerthy
     
56. Anthudaran
     
57. Dridhasandhan
     
58. Jaraasandhan
     
59. Sathyasandhan
     

Click to Find All Kauravas Name :- Read More

Lord Shankar Mahadev Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple

According to Hindu Mythology there are 64 jyotirlingas out of these, 12 of them are considered to be very auspicious and holy. One of the 12 revered Jyotirlinga is Bhimashankar Temple. As other Jyotirlinga, it is said to have constructed over a Swayambhu (self-emanated) Shiva Linga.

Bhimashankar Temple is located at Bhavagiri village, 50 km northwest of Khed, at 110 Kms. from Pune in Maharashtra in the picturesque Sahyadri Ranges and provides a wonderful view of River Bhima. It is from here the Bhima River flows southeast and merges with the Krishna River near Raichur. There is a dense forest surrounding the high ranges of Sahyadri village.

With the long stretches of undisturbed forests, towering peaks that seem to touch the heavens, and the tingling sound of water of the Bhima River, Bhimashankar is unquestionably one of God's choicest creations.

Bhimashankar Temple depicts the Nagara style of architecture and the excellency of the skills achieved by ancient Vishwakarma sculptors. It is a simple yet graceful temple, and it dates back to the 13th century. 

At the entrance of the temple is the image of Nandi (the celestial bull). A unique bell that can be seen in front of the temple was gifted by Chimaji Appa (Brother of Bajirao Peshwa I and uncle of Nanasaheb Peshwa).

Chimney Appa had a fierce battle with the Portuguese. He won the war and collected two large bells from Vasai Fort. He offered one bell at Bhimashankar and the other at Menovali near Wai in front of a Shiva Temple on the banks of the Krishna river. The Mandap (Towering structure of the temple) and Shikhara developed in 18th century by Nana Phadnavis. The pillars and gateways of the temple are embellished with carvings of scenes from Hindu mythological stories.

There is a small temple devoted to Shani within the premises of the Bhima Shankar temple.

The great Maratha king Shivaji gave an immense donation to this temple to promote worship services.


Legend behind Origin of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Shrine and Bhimarathi River:

Many Years ago in the dense forests of Dakini, on the lofty ranges of the Sahaydris lived a demon named Bhima with his mother, Karkati. Bhima was unkind and cruel. Gods were scared of him a But he was faced with certain questions about his existence which continuously irritated him.

Bhima could not  sustain his agony and curiosity, he asked his mother to unveil the mysteries of his life. He urged his mother to tell him about his father and why he had abandoned them in the wilderness of the forest. Bhima's mother told him that he was the son of the mighty Kumbhakarna, the younger brother of the mighty King Ravana.

Rama killed Kumbhakarna in the war between them. After hearing this story, Bhima vouched to take revenge with Lord Vishnu. To achieve this, he started severe penance to please Brahma.

Brahma was pleased with his staunch devotee and granted him immense power. That was the great blunder from Brahma. After that, Bhima caused havoc in the three worlds. He defeated King Indra and conquered the heaven. He also defeated a devotee of Lord Shiva – Kamarupeshwar, and put him in the chains. He started torturing Sages and Saints.

All this angered the Gods. All Gods along with Lord Brahma went to Lord Shiva for his help for their rescue. Lord Shiva solaced the Gods and agreed to save them from Bhima. Meanwhile, Bhima insisted and ordered Kamarupeshwar to worship him in its place of Lord Shiva. When Kamarupeshwar refused, Bhima uplifted his sword to hit the Shiva Linga, to which Kamarupeshwar was praying. As soon as Bhima managed to raise his sword, Lord Shiva emerged from Shivalinga and appeared before him; then the fierce war began between Shiva and Bhima. Narada appeared and requested Shiva to put an end to this war. It was then that Shiva conquered Bhima and turned him to  ashes and thus concluded the saga of tyranny. All the Gods and the holy sages present there requested Shiva to make this place his abode. Shiva thus incarnated himself in the form of the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. It is believed that the sweat that oozed from Lord Shiva's body after the fierce battle created the Bhimarathi River... Read More

Lord Shankar Mahadev Bhuleshwar Temple

Bhuleshwar Temple is the famous  Shiva temple situated around 55 kilometers from Pune. It is located on the Pune-Sholapur National Highway (NH9). This place is not heavily crowded tourist spot. But if your eyes want to see something unique, something exquisite do visit this Temple. You will actually find peace and solace in the temple. 

Bhuleshwar Temple attracts migratory birds that fly from the Himalayan Mountainous regions, and Pakistan during the summer to escape  rom the severe cold in the Himalayas. Thus, this temple attracts birdwatchers and invitation to the photographers.
  
According  to Mahabharata, Bhuleshwar Temple was built around the time of Dwapar Era (According to Hindu Mythology there are four Era and Dwapar Era is the third Era). According to historical references this temple was renovated  in the thirteenth century. The Bhuleshwar Temple is the masterpiece made out of the rock that let visitors  have the magnificent view of places like Jejuri and Purandar. The  minerates of the temple along with the small towers on all four sides make it really unique.

The unsurpassable carvings on the  exterior walls of the temple are an invitation to enter into an altogether different world. On the invitation, when one enters the temple, he or she can find cravings that had the tale of glorious past. After moving towards the sanctum of the temple, one can find a Shivalinga. There is an interesting fact associated with Shivalinga that is as follows... Read More

Goddess Bhawani Devi Chattel Shakti Peeth Temple in Bangladesh

Indeed, Bangladesh comes calling as the most sister-concerned country to India after the incredible silhouette of religious foundation such as Chattal Shakti Peeth on Chandranath hill near Sitakunda station of Chittagong District, Bangladesh.

Chattal Shakti Peeth as one of the most Shakti Peethas befalls dedicated to Goddess Bhawani (form of Goddess Shakti) and Lord Chandra Shekhar (from of Lord Shiva).

History:

Chattal Shakti Peeth, where Goddess Shakti right arm had fallen on, is the most hindu pilgrimage across India, to have brought close to the people for spirituality.       

Places of Interest:

Chandranath Temple:

Chandranath Temple as a holy place of pilgrimage, located on top of the Chandranath hill near... Read More

Goddess Yashgoreshwari Yashor Shakti Peeth Temple in Bangladesh

Yashor Shakti Peeth is as the most attendance of Goddess Shakti to come in form of Goddess Yashgoreshwari, while Lord Shiva is worshipped as Lord Chand thereon.

Located at Ishwaripur, Shyamnagar upazila, Satkhira district of Bangladesh, Yashor Shakti Peeth comes as one of the famous Shakti Peethas outside India.

History:

With a big thank to Goddess Shakti and Lord Shiva to have perfumed India as well as subcontinents e.g. Bangladesh, Yashor Shakti Peeth in Bangladesh has the immortal materialization of Hinduism.

As the Hindu Mythology, Goddess Shakti’ left palm fell where there... Read More


 

Goddess Gandaki Nellore Shakti Peeth Temple in Nepal

Nellore Shakti Peeth in Sri Lanka, revered by Lord Indra to Goddess Shakti, is meant to Goddess Indrakshi (form of Goddess Shakti) and Lord Rakshaseshwar (form of Lord Shiva).

Worshipped with the very immersed of intentions by Lord Rama, Demon King Ravana from Sanskrit epic-Ramayana, and Naga and Garuda from Sanskrit epic-Mahabharata worshipped to this Goddess Indrakshi.

History:

Consecrated by Lord Indra, the staue of Goddess Indrakshi in her temple (Indrakshi Temple) is believed to have blessed of bliss and contentment of all desires.

Nellore Shakti Peeth to have been dedicated to Goddess Indrakshi appears out... Read More


 

Goddess Hinglaj Hingol Shakti Peeth Temple in Pakistan

Hinglaj Shakti Peeth an abode of Goddess Hinglaj (form of Goddess Shakti) and Lord Bhimlochan (form of Lord Shiva), where there is the priceless attendance of Lord Rama worshipped for Goddess Hinglaj (form of Goddess Shakti) after he killed to a Brahmin (Demon King Ravana), is one of the Shakti Peethas (known as Goddess Nani Temple OR Goddess Hinglaj Temple) in Hingol National Park in Baluchistan province of Pakistan.

History:
  
Hinglaj Shakti Peetha to come witnessed after Goddess Shakti’ brain fell is worshipped by both both Hindus and Muslims, to bless them live happily with all sources of cheerful life. As the history is concerned that in the age of Mahabharata, King Nala of Vidarbha had his immense belief to Goddess Hinglaj. His complete succession over Vidahaba was accplished by Goddes Hinglaj.

Since that time, his successors ought to bow down to goddess Hinglaj. Also, it is considered important that the very delicious taste comes in food, with the grace of Goddess Hinglaj.

Goddess Hinglaj’ mantra:

om hingule param hingule amrutrupini tanu shakti
manah shive shree hingulai namah swaha

Places of interest:

Baba Chandrakup: At the meanwhile of Goddess Hinglaj pilgrimage, an important holy stop of mud volcano (called as Baba Chandrakup) have the the common attendance of those... Read More

Goddess Shakti Gandaki Shakti Peeth Nepal

Gandaki Shakti Peeth to have known as the most famous pilgrimage for Hindus in India typifies to offer the salvation over their obstacles. Gandaki Shakti Peeth, located at Nepal, is dedicated to Goddess Gandaki existing as the most religious river of Nepal, having the Shaligrams-stones (form of Lord Vishnu) in her depths.

Whereas, Goddess Gandaki (form of Goddess Shakti) and Lord Chkrapani (form of Lord Shiva) in Gandaki Shakti Peeth are meant to bestow the divine grace to content the lives a lot, Lord Vishnu, in form of Shaligrams, has brought up to Nepal come well-known all over the the country.

History:

Gandaki Shakti Peeth as one of the saintly embodiments devoted to Goddess Shakti has its history interesting. Meaning that Goddess Shakti’ right cheek feel where Goddess Gandaki river appears on. As the history is considered of Gandaki River that the Shaligrams (form of Lord Vishnu) as fossil-stones in the Gandaki-River are found as the boon to Goddess Gandaki to have it in its depth.

The region where Shaligrams are found is also known as Shalgrams. Here, the Shaligrams region is in Mustang and River Gandaki basin, including the famous Kali-Gandaki river, Muktinath, Damodar Himal, Damodar Kunda, Devghat, etc. Indeed, Gnadaki River is fulfillment of sprititual attendance.

Places of Interest:

Muktinath Temple:
Muktinath Temple to have come as one of the 106th... Read More

Krishna - Radha Nidhivan Temple in Vrindavan, Mathura

One can witness the foot-mark of Krishna and Radha, in Vrindavan at Mathura District of Uttar Pradesh lays down the essence of living.

Nidhivan is one of the most famous, religious and mysterious places in the divine, and holy city Vrindavan.

Nidhivan (Nidhi means treasure and van means park). It is a blessed temple where the unplanned overflow of fidelity and penance floods every time. It is known as MADHUVAN too. This is unsurpassable park and situated next to Shahji Temple that is surrounded by trees all around.

 Nidhivan has a dense plantation of Ban Tulsi (a kind of Basil, the wild variety) with its branches bending down to touch the ground imprinted with tender feet of the divine couple Krishna -Radha.

Nidhivan, The scenic beauty is particularly attractive during the rainy season as the freshly washed and new tender leaves seem to invite the visitor to shelter from the heat of scorching Sun outside. Once a visitor enters the divine environment of Nidhivan, he feels relaxed bodily as well as spiritually. Many monkeys are found in the vicinity of the temple.

It is believed that it is the location of appearance of Shri Banke Bihari. It is the place where Lord Krishna (Shri Banke Bihari) along with Radha and other gopis performs Raas-Leela (Divine dance) over here. Lord rests with goddess Radha on flower-decked bed after they accomplish their Raas-Leela (Divine dance).

Nidhivan Temple is considered as the flip book of Krishna Leela and also known for the joviality of Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha.

Nidhivan it is spiritually blessed temple where can observe the continuous flow of devotion and penance every time... Read More