One of the most important offering made to Goddess in Hindu Religion is a sari and a blouse piece. This is a very important offering especially in Shakti Temples – Durga and Bhagavati Temples in South India . Red sari is usually offered to Goddess Durga. In some regions purple color sari is offered to Goddess Kali. The ritual offering sari and blouse is known as Oti Bharane in many regions. While offering a Sari and Blouse piece – the formless Goddess Shakti is imagined by the individual to have a form – that of a female. He/She then prays to this form to help in fulfilling the desires. The Sari that is offered to Goddess is either made of silk or cotton or any other natural material. Sari, blouse pieces, a coconut and uncooked rice form part of the offering and they are together known as ‘Oti’ in some places. The devotee who is making the offering stands in front of the Goddess holding the sari with open palms at chest level. The blouse piece is placed on top of the sari. Atop the

For majority of Hindus the Ram Temple at Ayodhya is an issue in which anger and emotions run high – Bhagavan Sri Ram never showed such emotions and he remained serene in the midst of turbulence. Sri Krishna, the avatar or incarnation after Sri Rama, teaches us in the Bhagavad Gita - Serenity of mind, good heartedness, silence, self-control, purity of nature – these together are called ‘mental austerity.’ Serenity of mind can be gained only when our relationship with the world at large is put on a healthy basis of understanding, tolerance and love. After Ayodhya Verdict on September 30, 2010 by the Allahabad High Court one should put the above teachings into practice even if the verdict is in favor or against Hindus. Regarding Ram Temple at disputed site Hindus should have an honest opinion. This opinion should only be formed after studying the true teachings of Sanatana Dharma. The opinion should not be political, secular or communal. The whole Ram Temple issue is an attempt to

Both Rani Durgavati and Rani Tarabai Bhonsle remain towering figures in Indian history, representing the strength and courage of women leaders in a time of constant warfare and political upheaval. 1. Background and Early Life: Rani Durgavati (1524–1564): Born into the Chandela Rajput dynasty, Rani Durgavati was married to Dalpat Shah of the Gond kingdom. She became the queen regent after her husband's death and ruled the kingdom on behalf of her young son, Vir Narayan. Rani Tarabai Bhonsle (1675–1761): Tarabai was born into the prominent Bhonsle family, daughter of Hambirrao Mohite, the commander-in-chief of the Maratha army. She married Rajaram I, the younger son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. After her husband's death, she became the regent for her son, Shivaji II. 2. Leadership and Military Prowess: Rani Durgavati: Rani Durgavati is celebrated for her bravery and military skills, especially her resistance against the Mughal Empire. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned

A highly thought provoking and inspirational article in The Huffington Post by Ramnath Subramanian, CEO and President, The Bhakti Center discusses Ego in our daily life and about the solution to it in the Bhagavad Gita. The thoughts put forwarded in the article titled ‘The Bhagavad Gita and the Problem of Ego' by Ramnath Subramanian, who has taught Bhagavad Gita at Cornell University and the University of Albany, delves into areas in our day today life where ego sprouts unknowingly and completely devours a person’s ability to be honest. Some excerpts from the article Modern psychology has been wrestling with the vast territory of the human ego for a great while now, and its complexity continues to mystify us. Even before I learned about Freudian ideas on the ego, I first encountered the concept of the ego explicitly mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita. According to the Gita, there is a fundamental difference between "real" ego and what it defines as the "false" ego.

Ashwin Mahina is the seventh month in a traditional Marathi calendar followed in  Maharashtra . Ashvina Month 2024 in Marathi calendar is from October 3 to November 1. Navratri, Durga Puja, Dasara and Diwali are observed in Ashwin month. Other festivals include Sharad Purnima, Kojagari Lakshmi Puja, Karwa Chauth, Dhantrayodashi etc. Sankashti Chaturthi  monthly fasting dedicated to Ganesha in Ashwin Month 2024 is on October 20 – Moonrise or Chandrodaya is at 8:30 PM – Indian Standard Time. Ashwin Mahina Shukla Paksha and  Krishna  Paksha Ashwin Mahina 2024 Shukla Paksha (Waxing phase of moon) is from October 3 to October 17. Ashvina Month 2024 Krishna Paksha (Waning phase of moon) is from October 18 to November 1. Purnima or full moon in Marathi Ashwin Mahina in 2024 Ashwin Purnima or Full moon day is on October 17.  The Purnima begins at 8:41 PM on October 16 and ends at 4:56 PM on October 17.  Sharad Purnima is on October 16 Kojagari Lakshmi Purnima are on Oct

 "Lies Have Short Legs" is a proverb that echoes the Hindu teaching that truth ultimately prevails, while falsehoods are short-lived. This principle is deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy, which places a strong emphasis on truth (Satya) as a fundamental virtue. The phrase signifies that lies may offer temporary gains, but they cannot sustain themselves in the long run, much like a person with short legs who cannot run far. Ancient Hindu Teachings on Truth and Lies In Hinduism, Satya (truth) is considered one of the highest forms of righteousness, often associated with the divine itself. The concept of Dharma (righteousness or duty) is also closely tied to truth, as living in accordance with Dharma requires one to uphold truth in thoughts, words, and deeds. The Rigveda (10.85.1) states, "Truth is one, though the sages call it by various names." This illustrates that truth is universal and unchanging, despite the diversity of perspectives in the world. The Hindu epic

Gomutra, Cow Urine, is traditionally used in Ayurveda. It is widely used in Hindu tradition for various religious and medicinal purposes. Spiritual Science Research Foundation (SSRF), a non-profit organization registered in Australia and United States , has published an article based on their scientific findings on Gomutra, its mechanism of action and how to use it as a spiritual healing remedy. Spiritual Science Research Foundation Writes Gomutra, though it is inanimate, has the ability to attract Divine Consciousness (Chaitanya) which in turn creates an increase in the sattva component and therefore facilitates spiritual healing. One may question, why an Indian cow’s urine has such a special healing ability. Just as water has the innate property to cleanse and fire to burn, the Indian cow is the only animal which has the ability to attract the frequencies of all the deities in the universe. As a result, any discharges or by-products such as milk, Gomutra (cow’s urine) and cow dung

Kali and Chhinnamasta are two powerful and awe-inspiring goddesses in Hinduism, both embodying complex and intense aspects of the divine feminine, or Shakti. Although they share some commonalities, each goddess has a distinct identity, iconography, and spiritual significance. Let's delve into their attributes, symbolism, importance in Hinduism, and some lesser-known facts. 1. Kali: The Fierce Mother Iconography: Appearance: Kali is often depicted as a fierce, dark-skinned goddess, with wild, disheveled hair, a necklace of human heads or skulls, and a skirt made of human arms. She holds weapons in her hands and stands atop the prostrate body of Shiva, her consort, symbolizing her dominance over time and death. Posture: Her stance is usually one foot placed on Shiva's chest, with her tongue protruding, signifying both her bloodlust and her sudden realization of stepping on her beloved, indicating her compassionate side. Symbolism: Destruction and Creation: Kali represents the

Podcasts of the Mahabharata is presented by Chennai-based, G. Kameshwar – who is a travel writer and poet. Taking cue from the ancient Hindu story telling tradition, Sri Kameshwar has narrated the Mahabharat and you can now download the audio in mp3 files from the website of the Charsur Arts Foundation. The audio is not free – each episode costs Rupees 95/-, which goes towards a charity for children with special needs. But you can download the prelude to Bheeshma Parva for free. This is the prelude before the Kurukshetra war begins. You can read the blog of Sri G. Kameshwar here - Kameshwar So why did Sri G. Kameshwar start with the podcasts with the Great Kurukshetra war instead of the original beginning? The Hindu writes “I decided to begin with the war because that's what the Mahabharata is essentially about; you have every character out on the battlefield, and there is so much drama, from the highest philosophy to the lowest treachery,” he says. Proceeds from these sales go, as

Virashtami, also known as Bira Ashtami, is observed on the eighth day of the waxing phase of moon (Shukla Paksha) of Ashwin month. Virashtami 2025 date is September 30. It is also known as Durgashtami and is the eighth day of the Navratri and the Ashtami day of Durga Puja celebrations. A fast is observed on the day by man devout Hindus. Weapons of Goddess Durga are also worshipped on the day. The day is known as Virashtami as there are displays using arms and martial art performances. The day is also observed as Astra Puja as weapons of Goddess Durga are worshipped on the day. On the day the 64 Yoginis and Ashta Nayikas, the eight consorts of Durga, are also worshipped. Temples of Goddess Shakti perform special pujas and rituals on the day.

Respect for elders is a core value deeply rooted in Hindu culture, emphasizing the importance of honoring those who have lived longer and experienced more. This teaching is woven into the fabric of Hindu philosophy, where age and wisdom are revered, and the young are encouraged to seek guidance and blessings from their elders. As society evolves, the relevance of this ancient practice remains vital, offering valuable lessons in humility, gratitude, and the continuity of knowledge. 1. Ancient Hindu Teachings on Respecting Elders The respect for elders is enshrined in the Vedas , the most ancient and sacred texts of Hinduism, as well as in the Dharma Shastras and Puranas . These scriptures highlight the virtues of humility, reverence, and obedience to those who are older and wiser. Manusmriti (2.121) states: “He who has received instructions from his father, mother, or an elder should respect them as his teachers.” This verse underscores the role of parents and elders as the first te

Rani Durgavati and Rani Abbakka Chowta, though from different regions and backgrounds, are united in their legacy as warrior queens who resisted foreign domination and protected their people. Their stories are crucial to understanding the broader narrative of resistance in Indian history, and they hold special relevance for Hindus as symbols of dharma and feminine strength. Rani Durgavati (1524-1564): Background and Early Life: Rani Durgavati was born in the Chandel dynasty, a Rajput clan known for its valor and rule in the region of Central India. She married Dalpat Shah, the ruler of the Gondwana kingdom, further expanding her influence. Resistance Against the Mughal Empire: Rani Durgavati is most famous for her courageous stand against the Mughal Empire, particularly against Emperor Akbar. When Akbar’s forces, led by General Asaf Khan, attacked her kingdom, she led her troops from the front. Despite being heavily outnumbered, she refused to surrender and chose to fight till her la

Atelier and Gallery Pranava is an independent devotional art studio and gallery with an excellent collection of Hindu spiritual paintings. The gallery and website is created by Sita Devi Dasi based in Holland (Dutch Netherlands) who makes spiritual and devotional paintings and artifacts inspired by Hindu Holy Scriptures – Vedas, Puranas and the Bhagavad Gita. Her works include etchings, lithography and iconography, line drawings, oil an acrylic painting of Gods and Goddesses from the Hindu pantheon. She has categorized her paintings under the categories of muladhara, swadhisthana, manipura, Anahata, Vishuddhi, Ajna and Sahasrara. She also creates spiritual and devotional paintings on request. You can find the Hindu spiritual paintings here at the online art gallery and website of Sita Devi Dasi.  (The website is no longer working)

Agnaukarana is a significant ritual in Hinduism, particularly in the context of Shraddh ceremonies, which are performed to honor and propitiate the departed ancestors. The term "Agnaukarana" is derived from two Sanskrit words: "Agni," meaning fire, and "Karana," meaning act or deed. Therefore, Agnaukarana literally means "making one with fire." In this ritual, a portion of the food prepared for Shraddh is offered to the sacred fire, symbolizing the offering to the ancestors, thereby facilitating their journey to the afterlife or their next existence. Parvanashraddha and Agnaukarana Parvanashraddha is a specific type of Shraddh ritual performed on particular days called "parvans," which include amavasyas (new moon days), sankrantis (solar transitions), and eclipses. These days are considered especially auspicious for performing rites dedicated to the ancestors, as the cosmic conditions are believed to be more conducive to connecting with

Beni Dan, or Veni Dhan, is a unique ritual performed by Hindu married couples. In the ritual, couples pray and perform pujas and rituals to be reborn as husband and wife for seven lives. The ritual is performed by old Hindu couples. The ceremony has all the formalities of the main marriage ceremony of the community the couples represent. For the ritual women arrive with plaited hair - A hairdo formed by braiding or twisting the hair. The husband then cuts a small portion of the plaited hair and it is offered to a holy river along with other puja items. The ritual is usually performed on the banks of Sangam – the confluence of Ganga , Saraswati and Yamuna.

Matri Navami is observed during the Krishna Paksha of Ashwin month as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in North India . Matri Navami 2024 date is September 26. Navami Shraddha is observed on the day. Tarpan and Shraddha performed on the day are for women. Matru Navmi falls on the ninth day of the Krishna Paksha of Ashwin month. The day is of great importance in the Mithilanchal region of India . 

Kali and Bhairavi are two of the ten Mahavidyas, a group of ten powerful and fierce goddesses in Hinduism, each representing different aspects of the Divine Feminine (Shakti). The Dasa Mahavidyas, as they are collectively known, are central to Shaktism, a sect of Hinduism that focuses on worshiping Shakti, the divine feminine power. Below is an expanded comparison of Kali and Bhairavi, their significance, and some lesser-known facts. **1. Kali: The Fierce Mother Goddess Iconography and Attributes Appearance: Kali is often depicted with black or dark blue skin, a garland of skulls, wild hair, and a skirt made of severed human arms. Her tongue is lolling out, dripping with blood, and she carries various weapons, including a sword and a decapitated head. Symbolism: Kali represents the destructive aspect of time (Kala). She is the destroyer of evil forces and symbolizes the transcendence of time and the impermanence of life. Her fierce appearance is a reminder of the inevitability of dea

Sapindi ceremony is a unique ritual observed after the death of a person by certain Hindu communities. The ceremony is performed to merge the soul of the dead in Vaikunta – the abode of Vishnu. Sapindi is observed on the 13th day after the cremation in some regions. Sapindi is not performed for younger members of a family if the elders are still alive. Sapindi is only performed in an order – for example grandfather, father, and then son. So the Sapindi ceremony of a younger member is delayed if elders are alive. It must be noted that not all Hindu communities perform the Sapindi Ceremony.

Narayaneeyam, a Sanskrit classic dedicated Lord Guruvayoorappan (Lord Krishna), was composed by Melpathur Narayana Bhattathiri. The literary gem is a condensation of the Srimad Bhagavad Purana in 1036 shlokas (stanzas). Now Raja Thatha, a 68 year old retired Indian scientist, has written an English Translation of Narayaneeyam Online. The translator writes blogs under the pseudonym of Kerala Brahmin.  Narayaneeyam is noted for its literary merit and bhakti (devotion) and is a classic in its own right. The core theme of Narayaneeyam is Vishnu Bhakti. Link - You can read the Read English Translation of Narayaneeyam in blog format here. Apart from the translation the blog also contains a very good introduction, Narayaneeya Haarathi, Sampoorna Narayaneeya Parayanam -procedure, Sankalpa Mantras for Parayanam and effect of reading Narayaneeyam. Narayaneeyam is associated with the famous  Lord Krishna Temple in Guruvayoor . It is believed that the holy text was submitted by Melpathur Narayan

Varaha Chaturdashi holds significance primarily in North India, where it is observed on the fourteenth day of the bright fortnight (shukla paksha) of the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin. Varaha Chaturdashi 2024 date is October 16. This day is dedicated to the Varaha incarnation of Lord Vishnu, known as Varaha Deva. In Hindu mythology, Varaha is depicted as a boar, and his incarnation symbolizes the divine power that restores cosmic order and protects the universe from chaos. While Varaha Chaturdashi is celebrated by certain Hindu communities, it's important to note that there are various other occasions throughout the year dedicated to Varaha. Different communities may observe Varaha puja on distinct days, based on regional customs, beliefs, and local calendars. The worship of Varaha is significant for its association with protection, preservation, and the restoration of dharma (righteousness). Devotees offer prayers, perform rituals, and engage in devotional activities to honor V

The ancient Hindu teachings, encapsulated in its vast and diverse scriptures, offer profound wisdom that resonates with modern life. The concept of being "ready for anything" is not just a call for preparedness but also for cultivating resilience, adaptability, and inner strength. These teachings can be explored through various examples, quotes, and stories from Hindu scriptures, highlighting their relevance in today's world. 1. The Bhagavad Gita and the Importance of Readiness The Bhagavad Gita, one of the most revered texts in Hindu philosophy, emphasizes the importance of being prepared to face life's challenges. In the Gita, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna: "You have the right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself to be the cause of the results of your activities, nor be attached to inaction." (Bhagavad Gita 2.47) This verse teaches the importance of focusing on one's duty and

Couple of weeks ago we had written about Converse shoe company using images of Hindu Gods and Goddesses on its shoes. Now thanks to the efforts made by Houston-based woman Beth Kulkarni, the designer shoes carrying pictures of Hindu deities were withdrawn from sales in the US . She chose the democratic way of protesting, she send emails to the company expressing her anguish and protest. It worked – the company realized the mistake – tendered an apology and removed the product. Democratic way of protesting has not lost its value in the modern world – there are people who use this mode of protest and there are people who respect it. Economic times reports A Houston-based woman Beth Kulkarni raised the issue with the shoe company last week and the company sent its apologies to her via email. The company responded, saying it was an unintentional mistake on their part. "As a Hindu, I am very much offended by the use of pictures of Hindu deities on Converse shoes. Hindus in general fin

51 Shaktipeeth Temples are located in India , Pakistan , Bangladesh , Sri Lanka , Nepal and Mansarovar in Tibet . Now Ambaji Temple administration atop Mount Gabbar at Ambaji in Gujarat is planning to construct 51 Shaktipeeth Temples in and around Mount Gabbar . 51 Shakti Peethas are temples dedicated to Goddess Shakti. The Story of the 51 Shakti Peethas Goddess Shakti appeared as Sati and in this incarnation she was the daughter Daksha. Sati married Shiva despite the opposition of Daksha and Sati had to pay the price for it with her life. Daksha conducted a yajna and invited all the living beings but did not invite Shiva. Sati wanted to find out why her husband was not invited. Shiva warned Sati that the sole aim of the yajna was to insult him and she should not go there as she will be insulted. In spite of Shiva’s warning Sati went to enquire about it with her father, and as predicated by Shiva she was insulted by Daksha. Unable to bear the insults hurled at Shiva by Daksh

Rani Durgavati and Rani Chennamma are two iconic figures in Indian history, known for their valiant resistance against powerful forces of their time—Rani Durgavati against the Mughal Empire, and Rani Chennamma against the British East India Company. Though they lived centuries apart, their legacies are deeply revered, especially among Hindus, for their courage, leadership, and dedication to their people and kingdoms. Rani Durgavati (1513-1564) Background and Early Life : Rani Durgavati was born into the Chandela Rajput dynasty, a lineage known for producing brave warriors. She was married to Dalpat Shah, the ruler of Gondwana, a kingdom in central India. After her husband's early death, she took over the reins of the kingdom and ruled as the regent for her young son, Vir Narayan. As a ruler, Rani Durgavati was known for her administrative skills, promoting agriculture, and ensuring the prosperity of her kingdom. Military Prowess : Rani Durgavati is best remembered for her resistanc

When some ignorant Brahmins objected to Sri Narayana Guru worshipping a Shivling, he immediately retorted that I am not worshipping a Brahmin Shiva but an Ezhava Shiva. He represented the Ezhava caste and all those downtrodden Hindus in Kerala. He cleaned up the dirt piled upon the true teachings of Hinduism by the ignorant and coined the motto - one caste, one religion, one god – echoing the teachings of the Upanishads. The ancestral home of this 19th century saint is visited by thousands of people daily. Leen Thobias of p4panorama.com has created an online virtual tour of the Vayalvaram Veedu of Sri Narayana Guru at Chempazhanthy near Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram). The 18 th century simple home of Sri Narayana Guru is today a protected monument. The virtual tour has four images – you can view them in 360 degrees. Apart from the home, there are images of Gurukulam and Manakkal Temple which is located by side of the house. You can take the virtual tour here at p4panoram

Sri Narayana Guru was a 19th century sage and social reformer in Kerala, who did wonders in Kerala society through his humanistic philosophy and commitment to social reform and equality. He taught the ideal of ‘One caste, one religion and one God for mankind’ and stressed social self-upliftment of the downtrodden. Sri Narayana Guru Samadhi Day is observed on the fifth day of the Kanni Masam as per traditional calendar followed in Kerala. Sri Narayana Guru Samadhi Day in 2024 is on September 21. Guru kindled and awakened the spirit of Ezhava Community in Kerala - making it today one of the most powerful Hindu communities in Kerala. It was on a Kanni 5 in 1928 when Guru attained mahasamadhi – he left the physical body and merged in the Supreme Truth. Sri Narayana Guru (1854-1928) brought about revolutionary change in Kerala by organizing the lower caste people and all those people who had no voice in the society. His motto was one caste, one religion, one god – echoing the