Mahabahu: The Divine Attribute of Strength and Power in Hindu Scriptures In the vast expanse of Hindu scriptures and sacred texts, certain terms carry profound spiritual and philosophical significance that transcends their literal meanings. Mahabahu, derived from the Sanskrit words "maha" meaning great or mighty, and "bahu" meaning arms or hands, represents far more than physical prowess. This divine attribute, mentioned throughout ancient texts including the Bhagavad Gita, embodies the concept of divine strength, spiritual power, and the capacity to uphold righteousness in the world. Etymology and Scriptural Foundations The term Mahabahu finds its roots in classical Sanskrit literature and appears prominently in various Hindu scriptures. In the Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, Verse 26, Krishna addresses Arjuna with reverence, acknowledging his noble lineage and inherent strength. The word signifies not merely physical strength but encompasses spiritual fortitude, mora...

The Divine Power of the Mace: Symbolism of the Gada in Goddess Durga’s Hands The Gada and Its Divine Origin Among the many weapons that adorn Goddess Durga, the mace (gada) holds a special place. It was bestowed upon her by Lord Yama , the god of death and justice, at the time of her creation to destroy the demon Mahishasura. Each weapon given to the Goddess by the various deities carried a deep spiritual symbolism. The gada, representing power and discipline, embodies both physical and moral strength — the might that arises from righteousness and truth. In Hindu philosophy, the mace is not merely a weapon of destruction; it is a tool of divine judgment . It symbolizes the law of karma — that every action has a consequence. The mace of Durga thus becomes an emblem of justice and retribution , ensuring that dharma, or cosmic order, is maintained. Symbolism of the Gada The mace stands for obedience, devotion, love, and discipline — qualities essential for spiritual growth. Just a...

In the vast tapestry of Hindu philosophy, the idea that “our beliefs are a mirror reflecting the depths of human consciousness” resonates with profound clarity. This concept, woven into the ancient teachings of texts like the Yoga Vasishta , as well as the insights of modern-day sages such as Sri Ramana Maharishi and Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj, reveals a timeless truth: the inner workings of the mind and spirit shape not only our perceptions but the very fabric of our reality. In this essay, we will explore how our beliefs mirror our inner consciousness, drawing on the wisdom of the Yoga Vasishta and the transformative teachings of these enlightened masters, while also examining the modern-day relevance, practical benefits, and even the emerging scientific understandings that align with these ancient insights. The Mirror of Belief in Hindu Thought In Hindu philosophy, the concept of the self ( Atman ) and its inseparable connection to the ultimate reality ( Brahman ) is central. Our bel...

Tithi in Panchang – Hindu Calendar on Sunday, February 15 2026 – It is Krishna Paksha Trayodashi tithi or the thirteenth day of waning or dark phase of moon in Hindu calendar and Panchang in most regions. It is Krishna Paksha Trayodashi tithi or the thirteenth day of waning or dark phase of moon till 4 :23 PM on February 15. Then onward it is Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi tithi or the fourteenth day of waning or dark phase of moon till 5 :09 PM on February 16. (Time applicable in all north, south and eastern parts of India. All time based on India Standard Time.)  Good – Auspicious time on February 15, 2026 as per Hindu Calendar – There is no good and auspicious time on the entire day.  Nakshatra  – Uttarashada or Uthradam Nakshatra till 7:21 PM on February 15. Then onward it is Shravan or Thiruvonam Nakshatra till 8:36 PM on February 16. (Time applicable in north, south and eastern parts of India).  In western parts of India (Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, nort...

The Various Creations Of Vishwakarma In Hinduism Vishwakarma, revered as the celestial architect and the divine craftsman, holds a unique position in Hindu scriptures. He is described as the son of Prabhasa (one of the eight Vasus) and Yogasiddha, sister of Jupiter (Brihaspati). The Rigveda and other sacred texts extol him as the “Devashilpi” – the divine engineer of the gods, who shaped the cosmos and all its wonders through his unparalleled craftsmanship. Vishwakarma in the Scriptures In the Rigveda (10.81–82) , Vishwakarma is praised as the “All-seeing” creator who fashioned the Earth and the heavens: “He, the all-seeing, who produced the earth and the sky, who gives bodies to the gods, the giver of all forms.” This establishes Vishwakarma not merely as a divine artisan but as the cosmic creator, symbolizing divine intelligence and the principle of creative order (Rita). Across the Yugas (ages), Vishwakarma’s creations reflect the divine progression of civilization and dharma...

Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple: Where Parashurama's Penance Transformed Barren Land into Sacred Serpent Abode The Sacred Origins in Treta Yuga The Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple in Kerala stands as a testament to one of the most fascinating episodes connecting Lord Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu, with the serpent deities. This sacred shrine traces its origins to the Treta Yuga, an age when divine interventions directly shaped the physical and spiritual landscape of Bharatavarsha. Parashurama's Act of Redemption Lord Parashurama, the warrior sage born to Sage Jamadagni and Renuka, is revered for his unwavering commitment to dharma and his role in cleansing the earth of corrupt Kshatriya rulers. After fulfilling his mission of eliminating the adharmic warriors twenty-one times, Parashurama sought to atone for the karmic burden of his actions. Despite acting in accordance with dharma to restore balance, the magnitude of his deed required spiritual purification. In hi...

The Sacred Baishakhi Sankranti and the Divine Awakening of Maa Jogadya at Kshirgram The Festival of Divine Emergence Baishakhi Sankranti, marking the solar transition into the month of Baishakh, holds immense spiritual significance in Sanatan Dharma. It symbolizes new beginnings, fertility, and the awakening of divine energies. Among its many celebrations across India, the one held at Kshirgram’s Maa Jogadya Temple in Bardhaman district of West Bengal stands unique. Here, the Goddess— Maa Jogadya , revered as Patal Bhairavi , rises from her watery abode to bless the devotees. Baishakhi Sankranti Festival 2026 at Kshirgram Maa Jogadya temple is on April 15. According to the sacred tradition, the original idol of Maa Jogadya remains immersed in a pond, symbolizing her connection with the subterranean or Patal realm. On Baishakhi Sankranti , amidst the rhythmic beats of dols (drums) and the chanting of mantras, the ancient idol is ceremonially brought out from beneath the waters. De...

Kamala Kamini Durga: The Compassionate Two-Armed Form of the Divine Mother Among the countless manifestations of Goddess Durga, Kamala Kamini represents one of the most extraordinary and lesser-known forms. Unlike the traditional depictions of Durga wielding weapons in her multiple arms while slaying Mahishasura, Kamala Kamini appears with only two arms extended in a gesture of rescue and compassion. This unique form finds its sacred place in the Mangal Kavyas, the devotional narrative poems of Bengal that celebrate the glory of Goddess Chandi or Mangal Chandi, another name for Durga in her protective aspect. The name "Kamala Kamini" itself carries profound meaning. Kamala refers to the lotus, a symbol of purity and divine beauty, while Kamini means "the beautiful one" or "the desired one." Together, the name evokes the image of the Goddess as supremely beautiful, emerging like a lotus even in the midst of turbulent waters, ready to rescue her devotees f...

The Sacred Position of Goddess Shodashi: Divine Feminine Power Seated Upon Shiva The Divine Form of Shodashi Goddess Shodashi, also known as Tripura Sundari or Lalita, represents the eternally youthful and supremely beautiful aspect of the Divine Mother. She is the sixteenth (Shodasha) manifestation among the Mahavidyas, the great wisdom goddesses of Hindu tradition. In her most profound iconographic representation, Shodashi sits gracefully upon a blooming lotus that emerges from the navel of Lord Shiva, who lies in a recumbent position. This sacred imagery encapsulates one of the deepest philosophical truths of Shakta and Shaiva traditions. The Gentle Shakti of Hiranyagarbha Shiva Shodashi embodies the gentle, nurturing aspect of Shakti, the primordial cosmic energy that animates all existence. As the power (Shakti) of Hiranyagarbha Shiva—the golden womb or cosmic egg from which the universe emerges—she represents the creative potential that transforms the unmanifest into manifest...

The Divine Axe and Armor of Goddess Durga: Symbols of Courage and Protection In the sacred narrative of Goddess Durga's battle against the demon Mahishasura, every weapon and ornament carried by the Divine Mother holds profound spiritual significance. Among her eighteen traditional weapons, the axe (Kuthar or Parashu) and armor (Barm or Kavach) stand as powerful symbols of inner strength and divine protection. These sacred implements, crafted and bestowed upon the Goddess by Lord Vishwakarma, the celestial architect and craftsman of the gods, represent fundamental qualities that devotees must cultivate in their spiritual journey. The Symbolism of the Divine Axe The axe in Goddess Durga's hands embodies limitless courage and the capacity to destroy ignorance at its very root. Just as an axe can fell the mightiest tree with repeated, determined strikes, this divine weapon represents the unwavering determination required to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles in life. T...