Swiss Caran d'ache is known for high quality and high priced writing instruments that are smart in looks and durable in performance – Swiss Quality. In 2009, a limited edition 108 fountain pens and 55 roller pens have been created by Caran d'ache to honor Hindu God, Shiva. Today, there is a huge interest and vast market for various products based Hindu Gods and other aspects associated with Hinduism. Several international brands are tapping into this unexplored market sometimes successfully and sometimes landing in trouble and controversy by hurting the religious sentiments of Hindus. This collector’s item has been created by Caran d'ache, in collaboration with the jeweler and artist, Edouard Jud. According to Caran d'ache the Shiva-themed pen is Produced entirely by hand in 800 solid silver with a distinctive somber finish, these sumptuous pieces evoke all the mystery and symbolism of the most important figure in the Shaivait tradition. Shiva, the personification...

The Parsava Parivartini Ekadasi observed during the waxing phase of moon in Bhadra month is associated with incarnation of Lord Vamana of Lord Vishnu and also with sleep of Vishnu during Chatur Mas period. Parivartini Ekadasi Vrat Katha (Story) extols the glory of the legendary King Bali. King Bali was popular on earth for his honesty, compassion, justice and there was all-round prosperity in his kingdom. He made the utopia a reality. Although born into a family of Demons, King Bali was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu. His glory and power made Indra (the lord of Demigods) weak. Soon King Bali overthrew Indra and took over the heavenly kingdom. Indra took refuge at the feet of Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu took the form of Vamana – a dwarf Brahmin and went to the palace of King Bali who was conducting a huge Yajna. King Bali was distributing gifts to all gathered there and the young Vamana asked for three steps of land. King Bali thought that three steps of land was ...

A comparison between the Hindu goddesses Tara and Tripurasundari, highlighting their origins, attributes, worship practices, and roles in Hinduism: Origins and Mythological Background Tara: Origins: Tara is one of the ten Mahavidyas, a group of ten Tantric goddesses. She is often considered a manifestation of Parvati, the consort of Shiva. The name "Tara" means "star" or "savior," emphasizing her role as a protective deity. Mythological Stories: Tara is believed to have emerged from the forehead of Goddess Durga during a battle with the demon, Chanda and Munda, symbolizing the fierce, protective aspect of the Divine Mother. In some legends, Tara saves Shiva by swallowing the poison he consumes during the churning of the ocean, showcasing her role as a savior. Tripurasundari: Origins: Tripurasundari, also known as Lalita or Shodashi, is another prominent goddess among the Mahavidyas. The name "Tripurasundari" means "Beautiful Goddess of the T...

Stories and legends about the miracles of Lord Vishnu are abundant in Hindu mythology and scriptures. These narratives are cherished by devotees and are seen as expressions of divine intervention, symbolizing the victory of good over evil, the protection of the righteous, and the restoration of cosmic order. Here are a few prominent examples: 1. The Miracle of Narasimha (The Man-Lion Avatar) In the Narasimha avatar, Lord Vishnu took the form of a half-man, half-lion to protect his devotee Prahlada and to slay the demon king Hiranyakashipu. Despite Hiranyakashipu's powerful boons, which made him nearly invincible, Narasimha appeared from a pillar and killed him, thus restoring balance and protecting the pious. 2. The Miracle of Vamana (The Dwarf Avatar) The Vamana avatar involved Lord Vishnu incarnating as a dwarf Brahmin to humble the demon king Bali. Vamana requested as much land as he could cover in three steps. When Bali agreed, Vamana transformed into a giant and covered the ea...

A temple choir which is a rarity in Hinduism is being practiced in United States by Hindus. “ Om ! Ganesha Sharanam!” the choristers sang from the corner of New York Ganesha Temple in Flushing, Queens , on Ganesh Chaturthi and it marked the beginning of Hindu Temple Choir. Religious Choir is a disciplined group of people that sings as part of a religious ceremony and is mostly associated with Christian prayers in Churches. Choirs are not performed in Hindu Temples. Hindus do sing bhajans in group in temples but it is not choir as it is sung without any proper practice and is sung more out of devotion. Temple Choir is not performed in Hindu religion because Hinduism gives importance to individual worship and an individual can come and visit a temple whenever he/she feels. Hindu Bhajans are mostly solo performances. The auspicious beginning of Hindu Temple Choir was made by about 50 singers at the New York Ganesha Temple in Flushing, Queens , during the Ganesh Chatu...

The 19th century sage and social reformer, Sri Narayana Guru, a member of the Ezhava community in Kerala, was revered for his deep spiritual attainment, humanistic philosophy and commitment to social reform and equality. In 2025, the date of Sri Narayana Guru Jayanti is on September 7. He taught the ideal of ‘One caste, one religion and one God for mankind’ and stressed social self-upliftment by the lower castes to fight the caste system. Sri Narayana Guru Jayanthi is observed on the Chathayam Nakshatram day in the Malayalam month of Chingam. (August – September). Sri Narayana Guru (1854-1928) brought about revolutionary change in Kerala by organizing the lower caste people. His motto was one caste, one religion, one god – echoing the teachings of the Upanishads. Special programs and pujas are held on the day in Kerala, other parts of India and around the world by Shree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam (SNDP).  His contributions were pivotal in addressing social...

Hinduism aims to replace the limited personality with the unlimited divine one, emphasizing the transformation of individual consciousness to align with the universal consciousness. This concept is deeply rooted in various philosophical and spiritual traditions within Hinduism, and it can be understood through several key principles and practices. Key Principles Atman and Brahman : Atman refers to the individual soul or self. It is the essence of a person, beyond the physical body and mind. Brahman is the ultimate reality or the universal consciousness. It is infinite, eternal, and unchanging. Hinduism teaches that the Atman is ultimately one with Brahman. The realization of this oneness is a primary goal of spiritual practice, moving beyond the limited sense of individual identity to recognize and embody the infinite divine presence. Moksha : Moksha, or liberation, is the ultimate goal in Hinduism. It is the release from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) and the realization of ...

The Ekadasi fasting observed on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha of Bhadrapad month in traditional North Indian calendar is known as Padma Ekadasi. In 2024, Padma Ekadasi date as per North Indian calendar is September 14. It must be noted that the Devshayani Ekadasi observed in the month of Ashada month is also referred as Padma Ekadashi. Padma Ekadasi is observed during the Chaturmas period. This Ekadasi is also referred as Vamana Ekadasi, Parsava Parivartini Ekadashi and Jaljhlini Ekadasi. The name of this Ekadasi varies from region to region. But the legend associated with this Ekadasi remains the same. It is said that Lord Vishnu who is sleeping during the Chaturmas period changes his sleep position on this Ekadashi day. All the usual fasting rules associated with Ekadasi fasting is observed on the day. Some people opt for a strict complete fast.

In the Ramayana, Lord Hanuman carried the mountain with the Sanjeevani Herb to save the life of Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Ram, who was struck and rendered unconscious by the arrow of Indrajit, son of Ravana. For thousands of years, scientists, Ayurveda practitioners and common people, have been trying to identify the exact Sanjivani Herb that brought back Lakshmana to consciousness. Sanjeevani literally means something that offers life. Now a group of scientists from Bangalore have zeroed in on two plants grown in the Western Ghats , Aravali and the Vindhyas, which could be the Sanjivani herb that saved the life of Lakshman. Kalyan Ray writes in Deccan Herald A fern Selaginella bryopteris and an orchid Flickingeria fimbriata, could be the potential species representing Sanjeevani, said researchers from the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bangalore and College of Forestry , Sirsi. “S.bryopteris is known to offer protection against heat shoc...

The idea that the Hindu sacred syllable "Om" (or "Aum") evolved into "Amen" in Christianity and "Ameen" in Islam is an interesting theory, but it is not supported by historical or linguistic evidence. While all three words are significant within their respective religions, their origins, meanings, and uses are distinct. Om (Aum) in Hinduism Origin and Meaning : "Om" or "Aum" is a sacred sound and a spiritual icon in Indian religions, primarily Hinduism. It is considered the primordial sound from which the universe originated. It is often used at the beginning and end of prayers, chants, and meditation. Symbolism : The sound "Om" represents the trinity of the supreme divinity in Hinduism, comprising Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Shiva (the destroyer). It is also associated with various philosophical concepts such as the past, present, and future; waking, dreaming, and deep sleep; and the earth, atm...

This article is a guest post and is written by Sri Narahari Sumadhwa. He has used Telugu names of Hindu saints and gods. It is presented without editing and I have only added the popular names of Saints in braces. Dadeechi Rushigalu (Saint Dadhichi) was born on Bhadrapada Shudda Ashtami. The day observed as Dadeechi Jayanti . Sage Dadhichi is considered in the Puranas as one of our earliest ancestors and he shines in this great country as the illustrious example of sacrifice for the sake of the liberation of the suffering from their distress. No sacrifice is too great for the noble-minded in this world. During Krta Yuga, there was a daitya (demon) named Vritrasura. He, associated by Kalakeyas, was attacking Devataas (demi gods) and people were made to suffer a lot. Devatas (demi gods) were losing their battle against Daityaas. At that time they went to Lord Brahma, who took them to Srihari (Lord Vishnu), who recommended them to make a weapon to destroy Vritrasur...

Sunia is observed in the Bhadarva month in Odisha and is considered to be the traditional New Year in Odisha (Oriya New Year) by some communities. The day is observed as Bamana Janma day or Vaman Jayanti – the day when Lord Vishnu appeared as Vamana. In 2025, the date of Sunia festival is September 4. Sunia festival was observed mainly by Rajas and Zamindars. It is the day when they renewed the lease on the land and water body etc. The one-year lease of various types used to begin on the day. Farmers and citizens also used to pay the tax on this day to the rulers. But with the abolishment of Zamindari system in India , Sunia festival has no relevance and is ignored by majority of the people. The festival is of great importance in Puri for the Odisha royalty associated with the Puri Jagannath Temple . Thousands of people are invited to the Puri Palace and a Mahaprasad ceremony is held on the day.

Gotra, a term denoting lineage or clan, plays a significant role in Hinduism, particularly in terms of social organization, marriage, and religious practices. Its importance can be understood through various aspects: 1. Lineage and Identity Ancestral Lineage : Gotra refers to a person's ancestral lineage, typically traced through the paternal line. It is believed that each gotra descends from a common ancient sage or rishi. Cultural Identity : Gotra provides a sense of identity and continuity, linking individuals to their forefathers and the ancient sages. 2. Marriage Customs Exogamy : Traditionally, Hindu marriage customs prohibit marrying within the same gotra, which is considered akin to marrying a sibling. This rule promotes genetic diversity by ensuring that people marry outside their close kin group. Endogamy : Within larger communities or castes, marrying within the same gotra is prohibited to maintain genetic health and social harmony. 3. Ritual Purity and Religious Practic...

A devout Hindu, Rajiv Sriram Srinivasan, aged 23, is a Lieutenant in the United States Army. In an essay competition conducted by Hindu American Foundation, Rajiv shared his thoughts on the identity crises he faced as being a man of Hindu faith believing in the peaceful coexistence of all beings and at the same time the need to patriotically serve United States as an army officer. Rajiv’s essay is highly inspirational and touches the core teachings of Sanatana Dharma. Rajiv is also the founder of the non-profit Beyond Orders that connects soldiers in war zones with NGOs in the United States to meet the humanitarian needs of the Iraqi and Afghani people. Here are some excerpts from the essay of Rajiv Sriram Srinivasan titled My Battle Within: The Identity Crisis of a Hindu Soldier in the US Army. It was selected as the first prize winner in the age 23-28 category of HAF’s competition. As I dawn my body armor, grab my weapon, and prepare to lead my platoon of 32 soldiers...

In Hinduism, the concept of God being "Anadi" (अनादि), meaning "without beginning," is a fundamental aspect of the religion's understanding of the divine. This idea is deeply rooted in several philosophical and theological principles that underscore the nature of the Supreme Reality. Here are some key points to expand on why God is considered Anadi in Hinduism: 1. Eternal Nature of the Divine In Hindu philosophy, particularly in Vedanta, God (referred to as Brahman in many texts) is described as eternal and timeless. This means that God has no origin or starting point. The Rig Veda, one of the oldest sacred texts, describes the divine as "ajam" (unborn) and "anantam" (endless), indicating an existence beyond the confines of time and space. 2. Beyond Time and Space The concept of Anadi implies that God exists beyond the limitations of time and space. In this view, time itself is a creation of the divine, and thus God cannot be bound by what He...

Hundreds of kilos of flowers are used for puja and decoration during Ganesh Chaturthi festival. As part of eco-friendly Vinayaka Chaturthi celebrations in Pune, e-coexist, an environmental organization, is going to recycle the flowers used during Ganesh Chaturthi festival to make colors natural colors for Holi festival. Ganesh Chaturthi Nirmalya Segregation project of E-coexist One of the biggest outputs of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival is the tonnes of 'nirmalya' - the offerrings collected during the immersion. These offerings are made of several items : flower garlands, fruits, coconuts, spices, honey and camphor. While most of the offerings themselves are made of natural items, they come wrapped in plastic bags, plastic boxes or glass bottles. Traditionally, these items were meant to be immersed with the Ganesh idols, as an offering back to nature. However, since immersion of these on large scale is bound to cause problems, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PM...

'Where’s Hanuman' published by Penguin Books India (Imprint – Puffin Children Books) is an illustrated book for children based on the Ramayana. The book contains puzzle scenes and activities starting from the wedding of Lord Ram and Mata Sita. The puzzles are based on Exile of Lord Ram, Kidnapping of Sita, Coronation of Bali, Searching and Finding Sita, Building Bridge , Attacking Lanka, Killing Ravana and the return by Pushpaka Vimana to Ayodhya. The activity book is meant for children to learn about the adventures of Hanuman and Ramayana in an engaging and exciting way. Where Is Hanuman is written by By Alister Taylor and Chris Woods and is illustrated By Benjamin McClintic The official website of Where Is Hanuman has some interesting online games for children. You can play the online games here. (www.whereshanuman.com/games.php). The page no longer exists.

"Aparokshanubhuti" is a significant treatise attributed to Adi Shankaracharya, the renowned 8th-century CE philosopher and theologian who consolidated the doctrine of Advaita Vedanta. Advaita Vedanta is a non-dualistic system of thought which posits that the individual self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) are fundamentally one and the same. Structure and Content Verses and Themes : The text extends over 144 verses, each succinctly expounding various philosophical concepts and spiritual practices. The primary focus is on the disciplines and practices necessary to eradicate ajnana (ignorance) and realize the true nature of the self (Atman). Key Concepts : Atman and Brahman : The work emphasizes that the Atman (individual self) is not different from Brahman (universal consciousness). It teaches that realizing this oneness is the key to liberation (moksha). Ajnana (Ignorance) : Ajnana is the ignorance of the real nature of the self, which is the root cause of all suffe...

Aparokshanubhuti is a Sanskrit term that translates to "direct experience" or "direct perception." It is a concept in Hindu philosophy, particularly emphasized in the Advaita Vedanta tradition. The term is derived from three Sanskrit words: A (not) Paroksha (indirect) Anubhuti (experience) Thus, aparokshanubhuti signifies a knowledge or experience that is immediate and not mediated by any external instruments or intermediaries. Context in Hindu Philosophy In Hindu philosophy, especially in Advaita Vedanta, aparokshanubhuti is considered a crucial form of knowledge. It stands in contrast to paroksha (indirect knowledge) which is obtained through scriptures, teachings, or logical inference. Aparokshanubhuti is the direct realization of the ultimate truth, the non-dual Brahman, which transcends all dualities and distinctions. Key Features of Aparokshanubhuti Direct Realization of Brahman: Aparokshanubhuti involves the direct realization of Brahman, the ultimate rea...

Mukta Bharan Saptami is observed in the Bhadrapad month in North India . In 2025, the date of Mukta Bharan Saptami is August 30. It is observed on the seventh day of the waxing phase of moon in Bhadra month. This unique ritual which falls during the Shukla Paksha of the month is important to some Hindu communities. Doobali Satham and Uma Maheshwar Puja are also observed on the day. Saptami Vrat is generally dedicated to Lord Surya.

Rushi Pancham, or Rishi Panchami, is a unique ritual observed by farmers and women in Gujarat on the fifth day of the waxing phase of moon in Bhadrapad month (August - September). Rishi Panchami 2025 date is August 28.  As per Hindu tradition, women are not supposed to perform any religious ritual or visit temples during menstrual period. If a woman happens to break the rule, then she can perform the Rishi Pancham ritual and absolve the sin. In some Hindu communities, there is a belief that during menstrual period, a woman should not touch anyone or any vessel. Legend has it that a woman who did not stick to this rule was born as a dog in her next birth. A holy saint who realized that the dog was a woman in her earlier birth, asked the owners of the dog to perform Rishi Panchami vrat so that the woman can escape from pain and rebirth. The couple performed the Vrat and the woman got moksha. Women fast on the day, which falls on the fifth day of Shukla Paksha o...

Aponaptriya is a minor but significant ritual conducted during the Somayaga, a major Vedic sacrifice dedicated to the deity Soma. The ritual involves the ceremonial use and mixing of water, accompanied by specific hymns from the Rig Veda, primarily aimed at ensuring the success of the sacrifice and invoking rain. Water Preparation and Usage Vasativari : Water is drawn from a river on the day prior to the extraction of the soma juice. This water is preserved in a vessel called vasativari . Ekadhana : On the morning of the ritual extraction, additional water is drawn and kept in vessels named ekadhana . These two sets of water are ceremonially mixed with the recitation of appropriate hymns, including Rig Veda 10.30. The hymns are not only integral to the ritual but also bear the same name, Aponaptriya. Hymns and Recitation Hymn Recitation : The hotr (priest, representing the Rig Veda) is advised to recite the first stanza (pra devatra brahmane ...) continuously three times. Purpose of R...

The Hindu system of medicine and treatment, known as Ayurveda (‘the science of longevity’), is as particular with regard to prescribing diet and conduct as it is with medicines and treatments. This comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of a person's life is aligned with promoting health and well-being. Pathya: The Right Path In Ayurveda, the term ‘pathya’ refers to what is considered beneficial and conducive to health. It encompasses the foods, drinks, and behaviors that align with the principles of Ayurvedic treatment. Following pathya ensures that the body's natural balance is maintained and that the healing process is supported. For example: Dietary Guidelines : Eating easily digestible and nourishing foods is considered pathya. In almost all cases of illness, avoiding over-eating, consuming alcohol, and preventing sleep is recommended. For a person suffering from dehydration, drinking plenty of warm water is pathya, as it helps rehydrate the body without causing ...

In Advaita Vedanta, the concept of apavāda plays a crucial role in understanding the ultimate nature of reality and the methodology to realize it. Apavāda in Advaita Vedanta Definition and Role : Exception to a General Rule : As mentioned, in tarka or logic, apavāda refers to an exception to a general rule. This logical structure is applied in Advaita Vedanta to distinguish between the empirical reality (vyavahārika) and the ultimate reality (pāramārthika). Accusation : In another context, apavāda means an accusation, highlighting the process of negating false identifications or misconceptions about the self. Methodology in Advaita Vedanta : Adhyāropa-Apavāda Nyāya : This dialectical method involves the superimposition (adhyāropa) and subsequent negation (apavāda). Initially, apparent distinctions and the empirical world are acknowledged (adhyāropa). Once the student's understanding matures, these distinctions are negated (apavāda), leading to the realization of non-dual reality. N...

Mani Mahesh Yatra is an annual pilgrimage to Manimahesh Lake and Kailash Peak in the Bharmaur Region of Chamba District in Himachal Pradesh. The yatra begins on Sri Krishna Jayanti and ends on Radha Ashtami. The official yatra is only for a fortnight in August/September. Now the Chamba District administration has started helicopter services to Manimahesh Lake for those who would like to avoid the tough 14-km trek. The Helicopter ferries devotees between Bharmour, the base camp of the Manimahesh pilgrimage, and Gauri Kund, which is one kilometer away from the Lake . The Manimahesh Lake is located at an altitude of 13,500 feet. The water of the Manimahesh Lake is believed to be holy and pilgrims take a holy dip and pray to the reflection of the Kailash Peak on the Lake . There is also a four-faced Shiva Lingam installed near the lake.

 In the Mahabharata and other ancient texts, Rukmini is depicted as the chief queen of Lord Krishna. The details surrounding her death are primarily found in the later narratives and interpretations of these texts. According to the Mahabharata, after Lord Krishna's departure from the earthly realm, his principal wives, including Rukmini, faced a dilemma regarding their future. The traditional account of Rukmini's death, often narrated in the Puranas and other texts, states that she committed Sati. Sati was an ancient practice where a widow would immolate herself on her husband's funeral pyre. Rukmini, being a devoted wife, chose to ascend the funeral pyre of Krishna, demonstrating her unwavering loyalty and devotion to him. This act is seen as a testament to her profound love and dedication to Krishna, symbolizing the deep spiritual bond they shared. The practice of Sati, although controversial and later abolished, was considered a mark of ultimate fidelity in those times. ...

Bali Tritiya is observed on the third day, or Tritiya, of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) of the Bhadra month in Orissa. In 2025, the date of Bali Tritiya is August 26. Bali Tritiya fasting is observed by married women and is dedicated to Lord Shiva (Maheshwara) and Goddess Parvati (Uma). Images of the divine couple are made using sand and worshipped on the day. Bali Tritiya is quite similar to the Hartalika Teej vrat observed on the same day in other parts of India . As per the Padma Purana, Goddess Parvati observed Bali Tritiya Vrat to get Lord Shiva as her husband. The intense rituals and tapas performed by Goddess Parvati softened the heart of Lord Shiva who was in terrible anger over the death of Sati. Another popular legend associated with the Bali Tritiya ritual suggest that Lord Ram had performed the worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati from images made from sand and asked for their blessings before going into war with Ravana. In a un...

The temples of Udupi Sri Krishna and Guruvayur Sri Krishna are two of the most revered and significant Krishna temples in South India. Both are deeply rooted in Hindu tradition and culture, attracting millions of devotees each year. Despite their common dedication to Lord Krishna, they have distinct histories, traditions, and practices. Here’s a detailed comparison: Historical Background Udupi Sri Krishna Temple: Location: Udupi, Karnataka. Founder: Established by the Vaishnavite saint Madhvacharya in the 13th century. Significance: Madhvacharya is one of the chief proponents of the Dvaita (dualism) school of Vedanta. The temple is known for its strict adherence to the Dvaita philosophy. Legend: It is believed that the Krishna idol was found in a lump of gopichandana (sacred clay) brought by a sailor from Dwaraka. Madhvacharya installed the idol and established eight monasteries (Ashta Mathas) to take care of the temple. Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple: Location: Guruvayur, Kerala. F...

People from all walks of life are joining into create awareness about the need to use eco-friendly Ganesh idols for Ganesh Chaturthi puja and make a positive difference. Some people are coming forward with unique solutions to Plaster of Paris idols and one such innovative idea is the making of Ganapati Idols using Alum. This unique solution which also helps in cleaning water was put forth by Civil engineer Ramesh Kher from Pune. Large quantities of Alum, or Fitkari, (aluminum sulfate) are used clean portable water in India . Aluminum sulfate along with another chemical called sodium aluminate is pumped into lakes to control algae growth. The growth of algae is considered to be one of the main reasons behind murky and smelly water bodies. Ramesh Kher from Pune who has come up with the idea suggests the Alum Ganesha idols will help in protecting and saving the rivers and lakes. The main idea here is to make use of the Ganesh idol immersion environment friendly...