Gogaji Maharaj Fair 2016, Gogamedi Fair Rajasthan 2016, Goga Navami 2016

Gogamedi Fair 2016 = 7th August (Sunday) to 9th August (Tuesday)

Our country, India is the land of different celebrations. Rarely, you will see the people across the globe that worship animals and sing in their praise. Whatever be happen, India is an exception and you will find various such people in Gogamedi fair. Gogamedi is situated in the district of Hanumangarh and it is located approx 395 Kilometer far from the capital city Jaipur in Rajasthan.

The fair, Gogamedi is celebrated in honor to serpent God and the observance begins on Goga Navami. Most probably, the festival is held in the month of August – September each year. The festival celebrations are dedicated to Goga Ji Maharaj and observed with full dedication and devotion.

Gogamedi Fair Celebrations

It is believed that by carolling the name of Goga Ji Maharaj, anyone suffering from snakebite gets cured. Devotees across Rajasthan take part in the fair with great zeal and a particular, peculiar food items are offered to Goga Ji Maharaj. Delicacies prepared from honey, sugar and coconut are also offered to Goga Ji Maharaj. The traditional ambiance of Rajasthan comes alive to the core on Gogamedi fair as musicians from all over Rajasthan showcase distinct aspects of Rajasthani culture during the fair.

The Connections of Goga Ji Maharaj

Goga Ji Maharaj's temple has special importance for all his devotees of all casts including Hindu, Muslims, Sikhs and Christians. All the people coming from Rajasthan, uttar Pradesh and Vihar in this fair put on yellow clothes. These people are known by the name of 'Purbiyae' in their local language. The devotees coming in this fair chanting songs dedicated to legends of Goga Ji Maharaj and some have snakes with them. Devotees get special blessings from Goga Ji Maharaj during Gogamedi Fair and are blessed with their long cherished wishes.

Gogamedi Fair is considered as most popular Mela in Rajasthan for animals. Merchants dealing in animals in this fair as a trade. This trading is for camel animal.

Goga Ji Maharaj was a revered king and popularly was known for his love and devotion towards animals like cows. Due to his devotion towards cows, he was titled by the name of Goga Ji. During his ruling period, he constructed seven big cow sheds in his kingdom and seven thousand cows could be stayed in these sheds.

Legends of Goga Ji Maharaj

Goga Ji Maharaj was from popular Chauhan family in Rajasthan. Originally, his name was Jaharveer. His both brothers Archan Singh and Sarchon Singh were bad intentioned men and wanted to kill Jaharveer after kidnepping his wife Shreeyal. Jaharveer tried to know the reason behind their intention and killing him. The mother of Jaharveer, Banchal could not bear this and order the king to leave the Kingdom. Then Jaharveer left his kingdom and started to live in a forest but still, he continued to meet his wife secretly.

One day, his mother got to know about the meeting between them. Jaharveer could not face his mother for disobeying her order of not coming to the place again in future. Therefore, he got engraved himself in the ground along with his horse at Gogamedi place.

Since then, the Gogamedi fair is celebrated as a mark to the brave Chauhan King.

Gogamedi Fair Celebration Videos

Click Here to know the direction to reach in GOGAMEDI FAIR, RAJASTHAN

Hariyali Teej 2016, Hariyali Teej Puja Vidhi 2016, Hariyali Teej Katha

Charanamrit Hariyali Teej 2016

Hariyali Teej 2016 = 5th August (Friday)

The Hindu festival ‘Hariyali Teej’ is a vital occasion in Northern India. Both, Married and Unmarried women start preparation for the final Teej Puja in advance. The zeal and devotion can be seen on their faces. On the auspicious Puja day, women wear new clothes and bangles. Teej Puja is not a long time prayer. Simply, women read aloud the Teej Katha and worship to Goddess Parvati.

On this day, groups of young women sing songs and swing the Jhoolas specially created for the festivities. Literally, the word ‘Teej’ senses like ‘Third’ and usually falls on the third day after Hariyali Amavasya. The Hariyali Teej festival is celebrated in the month of Shravan and considered very auspicious. The Teej festival occurs during the rainy season that’s why it is also called ‘Hariyali Teej’.

Rituals of Teej Puja

Various activities and rituals are performed on this auspicious day. The women put on traditional Sarees and Lehangas, and gather in a temple to worship Mata Parvati, who took 108 births to reunite with Lord Shiva. On this auspicious occasion, the idol of Goddess Parvati is decorated with rich silk cloth and heavy jewelry. It is believed that this day is very important for married women and engaged girls who observe fast for long and healthy life of their husbands.

Teej Puja Procedure

All the women from Hindu community gather at a nearby temple or a garden where the Puja is arranged. The main Puja has been completed by offering of holy flowers, sweets and coins. A half-circle is created and an idol of Goddess Parvati is kept in the center. All the ladies together narrate the holy Teej Katha. Young girls also sit there and listen to the auspicious Katha. During the listening to Katha, it is expected that all the women put their mind and thoughts towards their soul mate.

 

After completing the Puja, Women offer fruits, flowers and other holy items to get the blessings of Goddess Parvati for marital bliss. The Teej Puja has another important part that is oil lamp which should be kept alight throughout the night as it is a bad omen if it dies away.

At the end of this auspicious day, women share their happiness and joy by singing and dancing on traditional songs in admiration of Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati.

 

Hariyali Teej Video
 

Amazing Facts About Hindu Calendar Month Sawan Maas or Shravan Month

Hello Lovely People, Today, we are here with a new blog related to Hindu Calendar Month ‘Sawan Maas’ or ‘Shravan Month’. The 5th month of the Hindu calendar is known as Sawan or Shravan. This month falls in between July and August. In 2016, the Shravan month has been starting from 20th July and will continue till 18th August. In Tamil scriptures, this month is known by the name ‘Avani’. According to Vedic Astrology, when the sun enters the zodiac, Leo, the Sawan Maas is said to set in.

On Purnima or Punam (the full moon day), the divine firmament is under the celestial sovereignty of Shravan Nakshtra. That’s why it is called Shravan. Each day during this month has auspicious significance for worshipping Lord Shiva. Prayers and Vedic rituals are performed in Shiva temples to please him during Sawan Maas. Various festivals take place in this month like Naga-Panchami, Govatsa, Shravani Purnima, Vara Lakshami Vrat, Rishi Panchami, Raksha Bandhan, Kalkyavatara and Putradaikadashi.

Northern Indian states like Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, Chhattisgarh celebrates fifteen days before the southern states.

Since it is the most auspicious period. The devotees take advantages by worshipping Lord Shiva. During Shravan, the world is super charged with Shiva elements that purify the mind, the senses, the body and the self through the rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva. The different Pujas are performed by qualified Brahmins.

Significance of Shravan Month

The people observe austerities, fasts and prayers during the holy month of Sawan. This is the auspicious time when Lord Shiva drunk the poison ‘Halahala’ that came out from Samudra Manthan between the Devas and Asuras for the quest of the ambrosia. At the time of Manthan, the ocean produced lots of valuables such as gemstones, Goddesses riches, cows, bows, the Moon, conch etc. Which was taken by demons and Gods. The gems which were emerging from the ocean were fourteen in number and divided by them. When the Ocean produced the murderous poison called Halahala, which was too dangerous to destroy the universe and Lord Shiva decided to drink it to save the world. His wife saw him taking Halahala, she at once held His throat so that the poison wouldn’t go down. Ergo, His throat turned blue and He was called 'Neelkantha'.

Spiritual Activities During Shravan Month

In the month of Shravan, Various spiritual activities are performed like Pujas, Sadhanas, meditation or Bhajans at homes or in Shiva temples. During this month, each day has its own spiritual significance like..

• Monday: is the day to worship Lord Shiva.
• Tuesday: women worship Gauri for the better health of their family.
• Wednesday: is dedicated to Vithala, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu or Krishna.
• Thursdays: are for worshiping Buddha and Guru.
• Friday: for worshiping Lakshmi and Tulsi.
• Saturdays: are for Saturn (Shani Dev). These days are also known as Shravan Saturdays or Sampat Sanivara (wealth Saturdays) as one can pray for obtaining wealth. 
• Sundays: are for the Sun god. Sun worship was common practice in the Vedic period and it is followed even now. Especially in Shravan, every Sunday the Sun is worshipped.

Auspicious dates of Hindu festivals during Shravan Month 2016:-
 

• Madhushrava Tritiya – August 5
• Durva Ganapati Vrat – August 6
• Nag Panchami – August 7
• Kalki Jayanti - August 8
• Sheetala Saptami – August 10
• Varalakshmi Vrat – August 12
• Rig Shravani – August 18
• Narali Purnima and Raksha Bandhan – August 18

Important Things to do in Shravan Maas

As per Vedic Astrology, Shravan month is very auspicious in Hindu religion and You can engage various activities during this month that shows your devotion to Lord Shiva.

Rudra Abhishek And Homa:- 

 The word Rudra refers to terribly infuriate, which is one of the divine qualities of Lord Shiva who displays it while performing His colossal dance, Tandava for the annihilation of creations. Due to this special quality, Lord Shiva is called Rudra. Abhishek means a method of worship offered to Shiva for cleansing all the misgivings, sins of the devotees.

Shiva Abhishekam includes Panchamrit (mix of milk, honey, sugar, ghee and curd, Ganga Jal, ghee, Bael Patra (Bilva leaves), Dhatura and other sacred items to Lord Shiva.

Rudra Abhishek and Homa purify the mind and body of devotees, offers peace, fulfills your desires and enlightens your soul.

Mantra Chanting

 You may chant the following Shiva Mantras during Rudraksha Abhishek or silently in mind. Chanting may be done at specified time with specific number of counts (108 times or multiples of it) in the morning or evening times.

ॐ नमः शिबाय||
Om Namah Shibay||

“I am None other than Shiva who is the supreme reality. Na-Ma-Ha, means None other than”

Mahamrityunjaya Mantra:-

tryambakaṃ yajāmahe sugandhiṃ pushtivardhanam ।
urvārukamiva bandhanān mrityormukshīya mā'mratāt ।।

“OM! We worship the Three-eyed Lord Who is fragrant and Who nourishes and nurtures all beings. As the ripened cucumber (without the intervention of the gardener) is freed from its bondage (to the creeper), may He liberate us from death for the sake of immortality.”

Rudra Gayatri Mantra:

ॐ तत्पुरुषाय बिध्याहि महादेवाय धीमहि तन्नो रूद्र: प्रचोदयात||
Om Tatpurushaya Vidmahe Mahadevaya Dhimahi Tanno Rudrah Prachodayat॥

“OM! Let me meditate on the great Purusha, Oh, greatest God, give me higher intellect, and let God Rudra illuminate my mind.”

Apart from this, you can read stories about Lord Shiva, read the Shiva Purana and meditate on His holy form. This is true Bhakti.

Fasting For Lord Shiva On Mondays During Shravan Month

 According to Shiva Purana, The person who observes the fast during Sawan month get special blessings of Shiva and their desires fulfilled. Shravan Somvar has great importance for the devotees of Lord Shiva.






Two Ways in which fast can be observed and they are:

1. Austere Fast: In this fast, a person does not eat anything in an entire day except for drinking water. The fast is broken in the evening after sunset and regular food without onion and garlic is consumed.
2. A Partial fast: In a partial fast person can eat fruits and permitted foods like Sabudana and nuts in the day and eat one time meal in the night.

Most of the time, the fast is broken after sunset, but in some cases it continues till next day. Devotees worship of Lord Shiva and then consume normal food.

Another type of fasting is that you can keep a ‘Maun Vrat’ (Silence) on one whole day in this month and remember Shiva in your mind.

Advantages of Shravan Somvar Fasting During Savan Maas 

• Devotees are blessed with spiritual bliss
• Improves physical and mental health
• Increases willpower and memory
• Women who fast on Shravan Mondays (Somvars) get their perfect husband
• Fasting removes obstacles by expelling negativity  

Hindu Festival Hariyali Amavasya 2016, Hariyali Amas 2016 – 2nd August

Hariyali Amavasya 2016 = 2nd August (Tuesday)

Hariyali Amavasya Puja Time

Amavasya Tithi Begins = 03:14 on 2nd August, 2016

Amavasya Tithi Ends = 02:14 on 3rd August, 2016

In the North region of India, Amavasya Tithi during the Shravan month is observed as Hariyali Amavasya which is also known by the name of Hariyali Amas. In the Hindi language, the word ‘Amavasya’ refers to a no-moon day and ‘Hariyali’ refers as greenery. Thus, the auspicious North Indian festival Hariyali Amavasya is celebrated on a no-moon day to welcome the month of monsoon. This festival is celebrated on the day of first Amavasya of Shravan Maas which considered as July-August period according to Hindu calendar. Most probably, Hariyali Amavasya falls just three days before Hariyali Teej and is celebrated in mainly Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh.

Celebrations of Hariyali Amavasya

 The people worship Lord Shiva on this auspicious day. The devotees are directed toward hoping for a fruitful monsoon season, which will yield good agricultural production. Many temples in North India organize special Darshan on Hariyali Amavasya. Shiva temples all over country arrange the special day for Shiva Darshan. In Mathra, The devotees of Lord Krishna visit the Dwarkadheesh temple & offer prayers. In Vrindavan, the people visit the Banke Bihari temple for the same wishes. Here, The Phool Bangla Utsav ends on the day of Hariyali Amavasya. In Jaipur, Rajasthan, Amass Puja is organized.

Hariyali Amavasya Mela

In Udaipur, a fair is organized known as ‘Hariyali Amavasya Mela’. This fair goes on for three days continuously. Various shops, stalls, food, games, rides, clothes and jewelry are set up. The famous dish of Rabri Malpua is available in much quantity. The fair attracts people, not only from the town in which it is arranged, but also tourists from all across the country. As a result, this is developing a single platform of national integration.

According to history, it is believed that Maharana Fateh Singh, who was the architect of the famous Fatehpur Sagarwas was the first to arrange up the fair. He observed that a lot of water of the Dewali pond was being wasted and hence converted it into a reservoir which was used to fulfil people’s needs later. After its completion, a fair was set up on the moonless night of the rainy season which is celebrated as Hariyali Amavasya for the common people and continues till date.

The fair is spread out from Saheliyonki Baari to Fatehsagar. The fair is decorated with beautiful and colorful costumes, traditional music and dance. The amazing combinations of these provide entertainment to everyone. Even though both men and women are a part of this fair and the last day of the fair is usually reserved for women.

On this day, the men are not allowed to enter in the fair. All the women pray for the prosperity for their families. The Collector of Udaipur declares holiday on this day for schools and government offices. Apart from this, schools and clubs also have cultural programs to commemorate this day. The activity of tree plantation is held across the places. A visit to this fair is a must-awaited affair.

Hariyali Amavasya Video

 

Sixteen Monday Fast Background Solah Somvar Vrat History

Shravan Somvar Vrat (First Monday of Shravan Month) 2016 = 25th Monday

The starting day of the week, Monday is considered as a very auspicious day dedicated to Lord Shiva. The crowd of devotees at Shiva temples on Mondays get the blessings of the merciful Lord, who can remove all the difficulties of the devotees and fulfill all the wishes. Sixteen Monday fast is one of the most popular Vrat observances in Hinduism dedicated to the supreme Lord Shiva. Being the supreme Lord of Shiva, the Hindus observe the fasting over Sixteen consecutive Mondays, which is also known as ‘Solah Somvar Vrat’ and provides several benefits to the devotees.

According to Hindu mythology, the importance of Four Somvar Vrat of Shravan month is equal to Solah Somvar Vrat.

Monday Fast is for Married and Unmarried Women 

 

Anyone, who is desirous of getting the blessings of Lord Shiva can keep this Sixteen Monday fast. This fast is especially recommended for those who are facing difficulties in their married life and also those who are looking to get married for a desired life partner. It is recommended to begin the sixteen Monday fasting on the first Monday of Shravan Month (July - August). The fast consists Puja to Shiva and listening to ‘Solah Somvar Vrat Katha’.

How to Observe Sixteen Monday Fasting?

16 Monday fasting observances are very simple as described follow:-

1 - It is expected that the devotees must keep their heart very pure and full of devotion and the fast starts on the Monday morning.

2 - Wake up very early in the morning on the day of fast (Monday) and complete your morning routines. After a bath, go to the Puja room and start the Puja to Lord Shiva picture or idol or a Shivling.

3 - Clean the altar, light the lamp with the help of gingelly oil. Decorate the idol or picture with Chandan and flowers. Chant Lord Shiva's names and offer flowers.

4 - At the end of the Puja, offer betel leaves, nuts, coconut, fruits and the sweet dish that you have prepared at home.

5 - Listen the 16 Somvar Vrat story and conclude the Puja with the waving of camphor and prostrating before the altar.

6 - After the Puja, you need to keep fasting for the whole day. You might continue your regular routine, Whether it is household tasks or going to the office.

7 - In the evening, light the lamp in front of the altar and offer some Prasad to Lord Shiva. After the evening Puja, you can partake the Prasad and some fruits if you want.

In this way, the Vrat observance has to go on for sixteen Mondays.

Sixteen Somvar Vrat Story

Once upon a time a money creditor and his wife lived a highly pious and devoted life. They did not have any children and prayed the Lord to bless them with a child. Lord Shiva blessed them with a boy child. Unfortunately, the boy had only 12 years of life about which the father had known already.

The money creditor made the boy live a highly devoted and hard life. On his twelfth year, the boy went with his uncle to Kashi to complete his education. On the way, they came across the marriage ceremony of the daughter of a big businessman. The groom was blind in one of the eyes. When the bride's family discovered this, they requested the boy to be the groom. After marriage, the boy went to Kashi and completed his education. As his destiny came to a close, one day suddenly he faced his death. Lord Shiva wanted to reward the goodness and devotion of all the people at the merchant's home and therefore blessed the boy with life once again. Thereafter, The boy returned home with the bride he married and all of them lived happily.

Hindu Festival Kamika Ekadashi 2016 – 30th July (Saturday)

Kamika Ekadashi 2016 = 30th July (Saturday)

The Hindu festival Kamika Ekadashi is like other Ekadashis and considered as an auspicious day to worship of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that worshipping Lord Vishnu on this day washes away all the sins and gives Moksha. It also helps the people to get Punya, which is equal to organizing an ‘Ashvmedha Yagya’ or donating a cow. Kamika Ekadashi is observed during Krishna Paksha of Shravana Month by whole Hindu community across the country.

Kamika Ekadashi Rituals

On this auspicious occasion, people take a bath early in the morning after that they pray to Lord Vishnu. On the same day, The Panchamrit Abhishekam is done to Lord Vishnu and after touching Lord Vishnu feet, it became the Charanamrit. He is also worshipped with colorful and fragrant flowers. The most auspicious deed is worshipping Lord Vishnu with Tulsi leaves. Except these things, Fruits, Milk and sesame seeds are also offered to Lord Vishnu. People observe the fast on this day and donate Deepdan, clothes and money to Brahmins. They celebrate Ekadashi nights by Jagaran and spend their time by singing Bhajans and reading scriptures. Next day on Dwadashi, people break their fast.

Visiting various holy places and taking bath in Tirthas are also witnesses of this day. It is a vital day in the temples of Lord Vishnu. Abhishek, Pujas, Aartis and Bhajans are sung throughout the day. In these temples, lamps are lighted using cow Ghee and different Bhogs are offered to Lord Vishnu. Kamika Ekadashi has great significance in human life. A person, who worship Lord Vishnu on this day immensely blessed and his desires are fulfilled. This worship relieves someone from Pithru Dosha. It also frees oneself from all worldly desires and help in attaining Moksha or salvation.

To worship Lord Vishnu with Tulsi leaves removes all diseases and sins acquired by a person. It is supposed that the person, who fasts and does Jagaran on this day, would never experience the anger of Yamaraj (God of Death).

Kamika Ekadashi Legends

There is an interesting story behind the glory of Kamika Ekadashi. There lived a landlord in a small village. Once he had a fight with the Brahmin of that village and accidentally killed him. Then he depreciated and wanted to be a part of his last ceremony. But the villagers did not accept his request. After some time, the landlord approached a saint to get rid of the sin. The saint advised him to keep a fast and worship Lord Vishnu on Kamika Ekadashi. One night when he slept beside the Lord's idol, the Lord appeared in his dream and released him of his sins.

The creator of the Universe, Lord Brahma told the importance of Kamika Ekadashi to his son Narada. He told his son that this sacred day eradicates the sin of killing a Brahmin. He also told him that the one who performs Ekadashi Vrat, straight away goes to Vaikhunta. The same thing is narrated by Lord Krishna to Yudhister when he wanted to know the weightage of Ekadashi fast that falls during Krishna Paksha of Shravana Maas.

Kamika Ekadashi Vrat Puja Vidhi

Wish Your Guardians Parents Day On 24th July, 2016

Parents' Day

Parents’ Day = 24th July, 2016

In our socialistic community, the family is the fundamental unit of a society and parents and children are the pillars of it. Parents are a child's ideal.

Parents play an important role in the development of a child by directing them to become a mature and responsible citizen. They make their child led a cozy life.

Parents are the teachers, well-wishers, advisors, role - models and protectors of their children. Hats off to their unconditional love and the hard work they employed to bring up their children and make them able to face in the crowd.

Their debts can not be paid back by their Children. Though, the children celebrate Parents’ Day each year to honor their mom-dad for their care.

Although, the Parents’ day is not celebrated on the same day in every country, but most of the countries across the world, including United State celebrate this day on the fourth Sunday of July month and Other countries like Korea celebrates The Parents’ Day on May 8 every year, whereas Vietnam celebrates it on July 7.

Children purchase gifts, greetings and flowers for their parents. Children give various gifts which may be silk scarves, brooches, music system, watches, a cozy dinner for the two and so on. If one wants to be trendy, they can go for personalized gifts or craft the gift with his own hands. This will be the best gift for your loving parents.

Parenting requires a lot of focus, commitment and investment of time. Parents’ Day encourages parenting. In 2016, Parents day is on July, 24.

If you want to read more Hindu Devotional Blogs, CLICK HERE

Hindu Festival Guru Purnima, Ved Vyas Birth Anniversary 2016

Guru Purnima 2016 = 19th July (Tuesday)

Shlok:- Gurubrahmaa Guruvishnuh Gururdevo       Maheshwarah|

    Guruh-Saakshaat Parambrahma tasmai shri Gurve  Namah||

“Guru is creator Brahma, Guru is preserver Vishnu, Guru is also destroyer Shiva and he is the source of the Absolute. I offer my all salutations to the Guru”.

According to Hindu mythology, the full moon day in the month of Ashadh (July) is observed as “Guru Purnima” among whole Hindu community. Specially, this day is dedicated to the teachers or preacher. This day is observed in the sacred memory of the great saint Vyasa who was the ancient saint and compiled four Vedas, and wrote 18 Puranas. The Mahabharta and Sri Madbhagavat were also written by Guru Vyasa.

The day is also known by the name of “Vyasa Purnima” and observed by the devotees who worship their beloved Gurus. The Guru Vyasa is also known by Adi Guru of Hindus. The auspicious day of Vyaasa Poornima has a great significance, as everybody knows that the real life importance of a Guru.

Guru Purnima Significance

The Guru Purnima day has great importance for spiritual sadhaks and farmers. All spiritual aspirants and devotees worship Vyasa in honor of his divine character and all pupils perform 'Pujas' of their respective Teachers or 'Gurudevas'. They offer sweets and flowers to their corresponding spiritual Gurus. It is also good time to start spiritual lessons from a Guru. Traditionally, spiritual followers start this day to increase their spiritual ‘Sadhana’.

The Guru Purnima dah has also great importance for farmers. The period Chaturmas (Four months) starts from the same day. The water drawn up and stored as clouds in the hot summer and now it rains during this period that brings fresh life everywhere.

Celebrations of Guru Purnima

In Hindu religion, the people show much respect to their Gurus and often regarded as Gods. According to Upanishad:-

“Yasya deve para bhaktir yatha deve tatha gurau
Tasyaite kathitaa hi arthaaha prakashante mahatmanaha”

This means, Guru to be worshipped in the same manner as the deity - God, to attain all there is to attain on the path of God-realization. When we realize this then there is a need to search for someone to teach you!

On this auspicious day, various cultural activities and programs are organized by different spiritual organizations. Divine discourses are also organized to make the day even more special.

In India Country, Guru Purnima is celebrated in different Ashrams, especially with much grandeur at Sivananda Ashram, Rishikesh. The day is celebrated here on a grand scale with coming devotees from all parts of the country. The same day is also celebrated at Ashram of Satya Sai Baba at Puttaparthy, Ashram in Amritapuri and few other places of spiritual importance. At some places outside India, Guru Purnima is also celebrated.

This is the day for spiritual searchers who remain extremely open to their Gurus to receive power and due to this reason; holy people choose this auspicious day to shower each person with their divine blessings. Explore yourself about GURU PURNIMA

Get free beautiful wallpapers of Guru Purnima

The Things Shiva Devotees Should Know About Auspicious Shravan Maas

Shravan Month Start and End Dates = 16th July – 18th August

According to Hindu mythology, in 2016, the Shravan Month is starting from 16th July to 18th August which is characterized by heavy rains, floods, and different religious festivals. Each year Shravan month is considered as the holiest of all months. It is the favorite month of Lord Shiva.

Here, we introduce some special facts about Shravan Maas that should be known by Lord Shiva devotees during this period……

1:- The great churning of the ocean ‘Samudra Manthan’ had taken place in the month of Shravan – Lakshami (Goddess of Wealth), Moon, Nectar, Kalpavriksha (Wish fulfilling tree), Rambha (celestial beauty) and Kamdhenu (a cow that provides all products of desire) were among the 14 chief products obtained from this churning.

2:- One of the byproducts of this churning was ‘Halaahal’ (great poison) – This Halaahal poison could destroy all living beings, therefore, Lord Shiva decided to drink it up for the greater good. Lord Shiva placed this poison in his neck and after that he got the name ‘Neelkanth’ (One with blue neck).

This tractate is also a symbol of Yogic beliefs that one should drink up the negativities instead of throwing them out on others.

3:- Shiva got the crescent moon on His head during this month – The moon was used to reduce the impact of poison. Due to this reason, the devotees offer milk, flowers and bel leaves to Lord Shiva during Shravan Maas.

4:- Observing fast on Monday during Shravan Maas to please Lord Shiva – Devotees observe the strict or partial fast as per their beliefs and convenience. While some do it to find perfect life partners, others fast on all Mondays during this period to be granted the boon of health, wealth, will power, or spiritual bliss.

5:- Mangala Gauri Puja – The most rewarding, fast ‘Mangala Gauri Puja Vrat’ is also done during this month.

6:- Literally meaning of the word ‘Shravan’ is ‘to hear’ – During this month, devotees should listen to all things that help them progress on their spiritual journey.

The devotees utilize the Shravan Month listening to spiritual discourses, sermons and noble words. There are also many other stories on how this month came to be known as Shravan.

7:- The Shravan constellation can be seen on a full moon night - It is a constellation pictured as the three footprints of Vamana.

The stars are also pictured as Shravana Kumar carrying his blind parents.

8:- Rishi Markandeya had perfected the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra during the month of Shravan – The Sages say that Mahamrityunjaya Mantra is one of the most powerful mantras that can even enable a devotee to avert definite death.

The Three-Eyed God is believed to be the most generous to all. While you may stick to the rituals, perform Pujas and help those in need to make the best of this auspicious month. It goes without saying that every second of time and every particle of the Universe belongs to the Supreme. Anytime or anywhere, it is always a good time and a good place to knock on His doors.

Some important Hindu festivals in Shravan Month

Shravan Maas Kanwad Yatra 2016 Date Time
Most Famous Shravani Mela 2016 of Jharkhand
Shravan Somwar Vrat 2016
Hariyali Teej 2016
Shravan Maas Lord Shiva Shivratri 2016 

Hinduism Fast Devshayani Ekadashi 2016

Devshayani Ekadashi Festival

Hindu Fast Devshyani Ekadashi 2016 = 15th July (Friday)

Hindu festival Devshayani Ekadashi is also known by the name of Ashadh Shukla Paksha Ekadashi, Ashadhi Ekadashi, Hari Shayani Ekadashi, Maha Ekadashi and Prathama Ekadashi. The holy period of four months named as ‘Chaturmas’ begins after Devshayani Ekadashi when Lord Vishnu goes to sleep usually.

Most probably, Devshayani Ekadashi begins after the completion of Jagannath Rath Yatra and Padarpur Yatra. Devotees in Maharashtra celebrate Devshayani Ekadashi with religious fervor. The Main celebration of the festival takes place in Lord Vithal (An incarnation of Lord Krishna) temple with great excitedness.

Beginning of Chaturmas Period

Usually, Devshayani Ekadashi occurs on a day at the beginning of the Chaturmas Period. The word Chaturmas stands for four months with Chatur referring four and Mas means month. The Chaturmas period includes the Hindu months Ashadh, Shravan, Bhadarva and Aso. Throughout the Chaturmas period, the devotees are expected to observe penance, carry on devotional activities and have restrictions over their senses. The festive activities and celebrations make these Chaturmas moths live and act. 

Significance Of Devshayani Ekadashi

According to religious scriptures, the significance of Devshayani Ekadashi was first explained by Lord Krishna to Yudhisthira who was the king of Mandata. He faced the problem of drought for three years in his Kingdom. This created a precarious condition and the residents of the kingdom had to face hard times. Rivers dried out and man and animal suffered immensely. Due to these happenings, the king was very sad and started a journey to find out some solution for his people.

The wish of the king was to appease the Rain Gods and then he met Rishi Angiras to get a solution. Then, the Rishi advised to observe a fast on Devshayani Ekadashi along with the entire population of the kingdom. Due to this Ekadashi fast following by the King and farmers, Lord Vishnu blessed, the kingdom and heavy rains occurred. Thereafter, the people lived happily with rains prosperity.

Thus, it became a ritual to fast on this auspicious day and is symbolized as the prosperity and good luck to those who showed religious devotion.

Celebrations of Devshayani Ekadashi

All the devotees get the blessings of Lord Vishnu on observing fast of the Devshayani Ekadashi. A true devotee is able to attain salvation if fasting is done by true deposit. The fast of Devshayani Ekadashi helps to fulfil the devotees wishes and aid them to attain freedom from their past sins.

Many devotees of Vishnu observe the fast for two consecutive days. However, the fasting on the second day is suggested only for those who wish to attain Sanyas (salvation) in the long run. Widows and those looking forward to attain Moksha too can go for the second day fast of Devshayani Ekadashi. 

Read deeply about DEVSHAYANI EKADASHI 

Related upcoming Festivals in Month Of July, 2016 

Pandharpur Yatra 2016

Guru Purnima 2016
Shravani Mela 2016   

 

Leh-Ladakh Hemis Festival 2016 – 14th July

Hemis Festival, Ladakh

Ladakh Hemis Festival 2016 = 14th July to 15th July (Thursday to Friday)

Hemis Monastery or Hemis Festival 2016 is a Tibetan Buddhist Monastery of the Drukpa Lineage which is situated in Hemis, Ladakh. Ladakh city is 45 Km far from Leh. The monastery was re-established by the Ladakhi king Sengge Namgyal in 1672. The festival is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava. The Hemis festival is 2-day long cultural and colorful extravaganza falls on the 10th day of the Tibetan Lunar month. The local people are properly dressed up in their traditional clothes for this festival.

The Hemis festival is dedicated to Lord Padmasambhava (Guru Rimpoche) respected as the dance performance at the Hemis Monastery representative reincarnation of Buddha. The people belonging from Lamas perform splendid mask dances and sacred plays to the accompaniment of cymbals, drums and long horns. The function is started in the presence of a lama president. In the festival, An auspicious turn takes place in every 12 years in the Tibetan Year of the Monkey, when the two-storey high 'Thanka' depicting Padmasambhava is displayed. Some beautiful handicrafts are major highlights of the festival. All the major annual festivals held here in summer season.

The festival is organized in honour of Guru Padmasambhava’s birth anniversary. It also has the largest Thangkha in Ladakh, which is unfurled once in every 12 years. In 1630, Hemis was built by an illustrious ruler of Ladakh during the reign of Sengge Namgyal. It flourished under the Namgyal dynasty for the royalty favoured the Drugpa sect, which managed the monastery.

The Splendid masked dances are performed to the accompaniment of cymbals, drums & long horns. A colorful fair, displaying some beautiful handicrafts, is the special highlight of the festival. 

Hindu Festival Bhadli Navmi 2016 OR Bhatali Navmi 2016

Bhadli Navmi or Bhatali Navami

Bhadli Navmi 2016 = 13th July (Wednesday)

The North Indian, Hindu community celebrates Bhadli Navmi with great happiness religious fervor. The festival Bhadli Navmi is also known by the name of Bhatali Navmi, Ashara Shukla Paksha Navmi, Kandarp Navmi and generally observed in the month of Ashad. The festival is celebrated on the 9th day of Shukla Paksha of Ashadh month. A vital deed related to Bhadli Navmi is that the day is usually contemplated to be the last day in the year for celebrating marriages in the Hindu community. It is believed that after the Hindu festival Bhadli Navmi, the Gods usually go to sleep. Therefore, all the auspicious activities are organized before and after this festival. 

Festival Dedicated to Lord Vishnu 

 

In this festival, the Lord Vishnu is worshipped. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that the Lord Vishnu is the most powerful among all the Gods. In Hindu community, marriages cannot be organized when the Lord Vishnu is sleeping. Lord Vishnu's blessings are essential to make a married life happier. Bhadli Navmi falls on the last day before Lord Vishnu goes to sleep. That’s why, the devotees wish to spend the day in a peerless manner and take the Lords blessings. The festival Bhadli Navmi is the last day for any auspicious religious activity. 

Bhadli Navmi Celebration

Hindus celebrate Bhadli Navmi by organizing various religious events to make the occasion unique. Special song sessions for reading Holy Scriptures are held during the day and priests take special care to make offerings to Lord Vishnu. Songs written dedicated to Lord Vishnu are also recited by the devotees to seek blessings from Vishnu. 

Jharkhand Bhadli Fair

  

In Indian State Jharkhand, a festive activity is organized as Bhadli Fair in its real colors. Not only the people of Jharkhand but also from the neighboring regions gather to celebrate the auspicious occasion. Jharkhand state holds the Bhadli fair from its ancient time.

Itkhori in Jharkhand comes alive as festive activities associated with Bhadli begin and devotees from all over the region dwell in the town. A temple belonging to Lord Shiva and Goddess Kali in Itkhori is thronged by devotees seeking blessings.

In Itkhori, Goddess Kali is worshipped as Jugdamba during the Bhadli festival. The coming devotees offer sacrifices and wide to get Mudan Sanskar of their young children.

The Bhaddrakali temple in Itkhori is also known for its collection of Hindu, Jain and Buddhist deities in their idol form and devotees seek the blessings of all in harmony to make their journey of life more meaningful and significant.

 

Bengal Hindu Festival Maa Manasa Puja 2016

Maa Manasa Puja 2016 = 24th July (Sunday)

Maa Manasa Puja 2016 = 7th August (Sunday)

The Hindu festival, Maa Manasa Puja is also known as Manasha Devi Puja and Nag Panchami in Bengal region. This festival is dedicated to snake Goddess and chiefly observed in Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam and parts of Orissa on different days in Bengali months of Ashar, Shravan and Bhadrapad (June - September). In 2016, Manasa Puja will be observed on 24th July and 7th August. Manasa Devi is the Goddess of snakes and is believed that she is the daughter of Lord Shiva.

In Bengal and other northeastern parts of India, Manasa Puja is worshipped for the prevention and cure of snakebite and also for fertility and prosperity. Manasa is the sister of Vasuki (The King of Snakes) and wife of saint Jagatkaru (Jagratkaru). She is also known as Vishahara (destroyer of poison), Nitya and Padmavati.

The myths about Manasa Devi emphasizes her bad temper and bitterness, due to not accepting by her father Shiva and her husband, and the hatred of her stepmother, Chandi (Shiva's wife, identified with Parvati in this context). In some scriptures, saint Kashyapa is considered to be her father, rather than Shiva. Manasa is depicted as kind to her devotees, but harsh to people who refused to worship her. Denied full godhead by her mixed parentage, Manasa’s aim was to fully establish her authority as a goddess and to acquire steadfast human devotees.

The rituals associated with, the Pujas is held on the fifth day or Panchami day of all fortnights in the Ashara and Shraban months. There are different rituals related to Manasa Devi. From simple prayers to rituals which many might consider as grotesque. Due to associated with the earth and higher knowledge, she is worshipped mostly in eastern India. She is also worshiped by those people who have not any child. Special statues of Manasa Devi are prepared during this Puja period.

World Population Day 2016 – 11th July (Monday)

World Population Day 2016 = 11th July (Monday)

In the year of 1989, The Governing Council of the United Nations Development Program announced that 11th July be observed by the international community as ‘World Population Day’. The main purpose of this day is to focus attention or to aware the people on the urgency and importance of population issues. The theme of WPD this year is ‘Investing in teenage girls’. 

Today, the population explosion is one of the major concerns of the world because this issue of uncontrolled population growth is causing to other major problems across the world. Some of the major problems of rapid increase of Population in current time are poverty, unemployment, pollution, deforestation etc. There is grievous need to check this eruption and observance of World Population Day is just a step in this direction. 

The teenage girls across the world face various challenges. Many are considered by their communities or parents to be ready for marriage and motherhood. Many are forced from school, damaging from their future prospects. Even among these girls who stay in school, access to basic information about their health, human rights and reproductive rights can be hard to come by. These challenges are exacerbated among marginalized girls, such as members of ethnic minorities or those living in poverty or remote areas. 

When teenage girls are empowered, when they know about their rights and are given the tools to succeed, they become agents of positive change in their communities. 

 

UNFPA's program aim to close child marriage, curb adolescent pregnancy, and to empower girls to make informed choices about their health. In 2015 alone, UNFPA programmes helped 11.2 million girls between ages 10 and 19 gain access to sexual and reproductive health services and information.

UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin said that "Leaders and communities must focus on and stand up for the human rights of the most marginalized teenage girls, especially those who are poor, out of school, exploited, or subjected to harmful traditional practices, including child marriage". “Marginalized girls are vulnerable to poor reproductive health and more likely to become mothers while still children themselves. They have a right to understand and control their own bodies and shape their own lives.”

11th July is observed as World Population Day all over the world for the awareness of crucial issues such as the importance of family planning, including gender equality, poverty, maternal health and human rights. The observance of this day is a ray of light towards the growth and development in the current time of ever growing population. This day has been celebrated every year since 1989, year of its declaration.

Hindu Festival Skanda Sashti 2016 Dedicated To Lord Murugan

Skanda Sashti 2016 = 09th July (Saturday)

The Hindu festival Skanda Sashti which is also known by the name of Subrahmanya Sashti or Skanda Subrahmanya Sashti is an important festival for Hindus and that is dedicated to Lord Murugan. It is observed on the 6th day tithi during the Shukla Paksha in the month of ‘Margashira’ according to the Hindu traditional calendar every year. The Sashti falling during the waxing phase of the moon is observed as ‘Skanda Sashti’.

On this auspicious day, the devotees of Lord Murugan observe full or partial fast with special Pujas. Chanting the Skanda Sashti Kavacham is auspicious on this day. All the devotees organize the Bhajans and Kirtans on a large scale. Such married couples, who don’t have any child, offer their special Puja for the blessings of Lord Murugan for a child. In the Tamil month, the Skanda Sashti is celebrated as a six day festival.

It is the auspicious day on which the demon Taraka was defeated by Lord Subramanya. It is an interesting observation that this festival comes immediately after Deepavali and Navratri Hindu occasions. It is symbolized as similar to Deepavali and Navarathri - Victory of good over evil. Narakasura represents the dark forces and Lord Krishna represents the good. 

Skanda Purana:- 

 

According to Skanda Purana, once upon a time, three demons Soorapadman, Singamugasuran and Tharakasuran were causing great troubles to the celestial Devas. Then Lord Shanmuga took an avatar from the third eye of Lord Shiva to destroy them. During war Lord Muruga transformed Singhamugasuram as a vehicle of Goddess Shakti. Soorapadman tried to escape by hiding himself as a mango tree in the ocean floor after fighting. Lord Muruga split the mango tree and converted one half as peacock vehicle and the other half as 'ceval' or rooster banner. After giving  blessings to the Asuras, Lord Muruga freed the Devas. The destruction of three Asuras symbolizes the destruction of  ego, and  illusion. See the SKANDA SASHTI DATES IN 2016

Shri Amarnath Yatra Schedule 2016

In Indian culture, Shri Amarnath cave has great importance and is one of the most famous shrines. This is one of the most popular holy Yatra among the Char Dham Yatras. The Amarnath Cave is located in Jammu and Kashmir, India. The cave is 141 KM far from Srinagar, the capital of J&K and is reached through Pahalgaon town. The shrine is a vital part of Hinduism and considered as holiest shrines in Hinduism. Surrounding the cave, the snowy mountains exist. In most of the months of a year, the cave is covered with snow except for a short period of time in the summer season when it is open for devotees. Thousands of Hindu devotees come here for Shri Amarnath Darshan who is popularly known by the name of ‘Barfani Baba’. The Barfani Baba is made up of ice stalagmite inside the cave.

The Barfani Baba Linga

 

The stalagmite is formed due to freezing of water drops that fall from the roof of the cave on the floor and grows up vertically from the cave floor inside the 40 m high Amarnath cave. It is considered as the Shiva Linga by Hindus. During the period from May to August, the cave waxes as snow melts in the Himalayas above the cave and the resultant water leaks into the rocks thereafter gradually wanes. According to the Hindu religion, it has been claimed that the lingam grows and shrinks with the phases of the moon reaching its height during the summer season. Although there is no scientific  demonstration of this faith.

According to a Hindu legend, this is the cave where Shiva explained the secret of life and eternity to his divine consort, Parvati. Two other ice formations represent Parvati and Shiva's son, Ganesha.

The main purpose of the annual pilgrimage to the cave is worship of the ice stalagmite Linga.

Address:- Baltal Amarnath Trek, Forest Block, Anantnag, Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir 192230

Amarnath Yatra 2016 Schedule

 

Amarnath Yatra 2016 schedule is now announced and as per the Official handout, declaration on on 21st Jan after the meeting on SASB members in New Delhi. The 48 Day Long Yatra will start from 2nd July, 2016 and will conclude on 18th August, 2016. Explore yourself about AMARNATH YATRA