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Showing posts from August, 2012


How to Worship Lord Vishnu in Hinduism: A Comprehensive Guide

Importance of Worshipping Lord Vishnu In Hinduism, Lord Vishnu is considered the preserver and protector of the universe, one of the principal deities in the holy trinity (Trimurti) alongside Brahma (the creator) and Shiva (the destroyer). Worshiping Lord Vishnu brings peace, prosperity, and the preservation of dharma (righteousness) in one's life. Vishnu is known to incarnate on Earth as avatars, like Rama and Krishna, to restore cosmic order, making him a symbol of compassion, love, and justice. Cleanliness and Purity Before beginning the puja (worship), cleanliness is of utmost importance: Personal Cleanliness : Take a bath, clean the space where the puja will be performed, and wear fresh clothes. Clean Puja Area : The altar or mandir (prayer space) should be wiped clean and arranged neatly. Purify the area with water, and light incense or camphor to create a sacred ambiance. Mental Purity : Calm the mind through meditation or deep breathing, letting go of negative thoughts and ...

Amavasya Puja and Rituals and Dead Forefathers

Amavasya or No moon day in a Hindu lunar calendar is considered highly auspicious for performing pujas and rituals dedicated to dead parents, grand parents, brothers, sisters, wife, son, daughter and other relatives. The popular belief is that the light from the sun that instead of reaching the moon reaches the dead on the day. Another belief is that souls of the dead visit relatives on the earth on the day. On the day, living relatives can perform holy bath in river, lake or sea, perform thila tharpanam, feed the dead and perform annadanam – donation of food to hungry. As part of the puja and ritual people only take a single meal on Amavasya. A simple vegetarian food is eaten on the day. The most important Amavasya in north western and eastern parts of India is the Mahalaya Amavasya (September – October). In Kerala, it is the Amavasya in the month of Karkidakam – Karkidaka Vavu Bali – that is important. In Tamil, the Amavasya in the month of Thai and Aadi are hi...

Huge Shivling with Thousand Shivling Chiselled on It - Koteshwarnath Temple in Gaya in Bihar

Koteshwarnath Temple at Main Village near Belaganj in Gaya District in Bihar is a famous Shiva Temple with a unique Shivling – the huge Shivling has a thousand Shivling chiselled on it. The murti is known as Sahastra Lingi Baba Koteshwarnath. It is also believed that prayers offered in the temple are fulfilled immediately. It is said that the blessing of Koteshwarnath is  equal to one hundred thousand blessings Times of India reports Located on the bank of river Morhar river at Main village, the temple's sanctum sanctorum is carved in a single piece of red stone and within it is installed a large sized Shivalinga with around 1,008 miniature Shivlingas around 1200 years back. People call it Sahastra Shivalinga built in-one and believe Lord Shiva here showers blessings on the devotees.  An amazing thing near the Koteshwarnath temple is an old Pipal tree, whose large branches have turned towards the temple bending downwards as if offering prayers to Lord Shiva. The pr...

How to Worship Lord Ganesha in Hinduism: A Comprehensive Guide

Worshipping Lord Ganesha is a vital aspect of Hindu rituals, particularly during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi. Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god, is known as the remover of obstacles, the god of wisdom, and the deity of beginnings. His blessings are sought before starting any new venture. Here's a comprehensive guide to worshiping Lord Ganesha, covering everything from preparation to conclusion. 1. Preparation for Worship: Cleanliness and Purity In Hinduism, cleanliness is essential before conducting any religious ritual. It symbolizes purity of body and mind, ensuring that the devotee approaches the deity with a clean and positive aura. Cleanliness Guidelines : Take a bath before starting the puja to purify yourself. Clean the area where the puja will take place, ideally a small altar or temple space in your home. Wash the idol or picture of Lord Ganesha gently with water or rose water (if it has a metal or stone idol). Dress in clean, preferably traditional clothes, as the...

Dreaming Of Speaking Another Language – Meaning

Dreaming of speaking another language is a good omen as per dream meaning and interpretation. Dream of speaking another language can often symbolize a desire for communication, connection, or understanding beyond your current limitations. Dreams of speaking another language might suggest a longing to explore new cultures, ideas, or perspectives. You may feel ready to step outside your comfort zone and broaden your worldview. It could indicate untapped abilities or talents that you're unaware of. The dream may be encouraging you to explore your potential and discover new skills. If you're struggling with communication in your waking life, the dream might be a reflection of those difficulties. It could be a subconscious attempt to address or resolve these issues. In some cases, dreaming of speaking another language can represent a desire for spiritual growth or enlightenment. It might symbolize a search for deeper meaning or understanding. Here are some more possible interpretati...

Gita in Nepali – Download Bhagavad Gita in Nepali in Pdf format for free

Srimad Bhagavad Gita in Nepali in Pdf format for free is provided by Swami Shri Adgadanad Ji’s of Yatharth Geeta. This downloadable Nepali Bhagwad Geeta is strictly for personal use. You can only download the eighteen chapters in Nepali separately and not as a single book. The Nepali Bhagavad Gita is in pdf format and you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader or any other pdf reader installed on your computer. You can download the Bhagavad Gita in Nepali from this link –  Nepali Bhagavad Gita . Influence Of Bhagavad Gita In Nepal The influence of the Bhagavad Gita in Nepal, much like in many parts of South Asia, is profound and multifaceted. Nepal, with its predominantly Hindu population, has embraced the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita for centuries, integrating its principles into various aspects of life, culture, and spirituality. Religious Practices: The Bhagavad Gita holds a central place in Hindu religious practices in Nepal. It is often recited during religious ceremonies, ...

How Bhagavad Gita Is Helpful To The Next Generation?

The Bhagavad Gita, an ancient Indian scripture, offers timeless wisdom that transcends generations. Here's how it can be helpful to the next generation: Philosophical Guidance: The Gita provides profound insights into various philosophical concepts such as duty (dharma), righteousness, and the nature of the self (atman). These teachings can help the next generation navigate life's complexities and find meaning and purpose. Management of Emotions: The Gita addresses the turmoil of human emotions and provides techniques for managing them. Learning to control emotions like anger, greed, and attachment can lead to better decision-making and emotional well-being. Stress Management: The Gita teaches the importance of detachment from outcomes and focusing on one's duty without being overly attached to success or failure. This mindset can help the next generation cope with stress and anxiety in a competitive world. Leadership Lessons: The Gita contains valuable lessons o...

Imaginary Google Doodle for Onam - And a Request from Maveli to Google

Hello Google ; this is Mahabali the demon king who ruled over Kerala in India . It is Onam festival for Malayalees in Kerala and all around the world. You might have already sensed it with the numerous searches based on Onam. My reign of Kerala is referred as the Golden Era and I visit my citizens on Onam day, which is marked by feast and festivities. Onam in 2012 is on August 29. Let me come to the point. I am a great fan of your holiday doodles and I would love to have one based on Onam. Don’t think that Onam is a regional festival in India . Malayalees are there in Google, Yahoo, Bing, Facebook, Google +… They are there in all parts of the world. They are there in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Europe, Middle East countries, Japan, China and now one of my subjects is undergoing space tourist training. Wherever they are in the world, Malayalees remember me on Thiru Onam day and they create the wonderful floral arrangements ( onapookalam ) to...

How to Worship Lord Shiva in Hinduism: A Comprehensive Guide

Worshiping Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, is a profound spiritual practice believed to lead to inner peace, prosperity, and divine blessings. Shiva, known as the Destroyer and Transformer in the Hindu trinity (Trimurti), symbolizes both destruction of negative tendencies and the path to ultimate liberation (Moksha). Here's a comprehensive guide on how to worship Lord Shiva: 1. Cleanliness and Preparation: Personal Cleanliness: Bathing: Take a bath before performing the puja to purify yourself physically and mentally. This act signifies the cleansing of mind, body, and spirit. Clean Clothes: It is recommended to wear clean, simple, and modest clothes. Preferably wear light-colored or white clothes, as white symbolizes purity. Men can wear a dhoti and women can wear a saree or salwar kameez . Mind Cleanliness: Have a calm mind and positive intentions. Meditate or chant the mantra “Om Namah Shivaya” to focus your thoughts on Lord Shiva. Temple or Puja Space...

Impact of Vedic Pravargya Ritual on Nature to be Studied by Professors from Harvard University

Pravargya Ritual is the introductory part of Somayagam (Agnishtomam). It is believed that the 'Pravargya' rituals help cleanse nature. Scholars from Harvard University will be documenting all the rituals associated with Pravargya and its impact on nature. Times of India reports  The scholars, Michael Witzel, department of south-Asian studies in Harvard University, Finnian Moore Gerety, department of Sanskrit, Harvard University and T P Mahadevan, professor of Indology at Howard University, Washington DC, will document all the rituals related to 'Pravargya' and conduct a detailed study on the positive and negative impacts of the rituals on the atmosphere with the support of scientists. Various studies have been conducted in the past on the effect of the Yaga rituals on the atmosphere. And scientists from Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) had found that the 'Yaga' had had a positive impact on soil, air and the atmosphere in general. Howev...

A Comparison Between Vayu Hindu Wind God And Boreas In Greek Mythology

Vayu: The Hindu Wind God vs Boreas: The Greek North Wind - A Comparative Study Introduction In both Hindu and Greek mythology, the wind holds significant religious, symbolic, and practical importance. Wind deities like Vayu, the Hindu wind god, and Boreas, the Greek god of the north wind, are portrayed as powerful forces of nature, playing essential roles in their respective mythologies. This study will explore their characteristics, symbolism, cultural importance, similarities, and differences, as well as their relevance and influence in modern times. Vayu: The Hindu Wind God Vayu, sometimes called Pavana (meaning purifier), is the god of wind in Hinduism. He is considered a significant deity, associated with life itself, as the wind is crucial for breathing (prana), movement, and sustaining life. Vayu is also known as the father of Hanuman, the monkey god, and Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata. In Hindu mythology: Vayu as a Force of Life : Vayu is often invoked...

Baidyanath Temple To Have Separate Shivling

Shravani Mela at the Baidyanath Temple will be different from next year as the temple authority (Baidyanathdham Temple Management Board) is planning to install a new Shivling, which will be connected to the original Jyotirlinga. Water offered at this new Shivlinga will go directly to the original one. This is to avoid heavy rush inside the Sanctum Sanctorum during the Shravani Mela. Times of India reports "Henceforth, devotees will not be needed to go inside the sanctum sanctorum to offer water," said the BDTMB chief executive officer and deputy commissioner of Deoghar district, Rahul Purwar.  The decision to have a second Shiva Linga was taken to cope with the rush at the shrine . The final decision will be taken after consulting the Panda Dharma Rakchhini Sabha (PDRS), the chief body of pandas at the temple. Many devotees fail to go inside the sanctum sanctorum because of the rush and are forced to make their offerings outside the temple.

A Comparison Between Vayu Hindu Wind God And Skirnir In Norse Mythology

Vayu in Hindu Mythology and Skirnir in Norse Mythology: A Comparative Study Introduction: Both Vayu and Skirnir are deities associated with the elements of wind and movement, playing essential roles within their respective mythological frameworks—Hinduism and Norse mythology. While Vayu is a major deity in Hinduism, Skirnir holds a lesser but notable role in Norse mythology as the messenger of the fertility god Freyr. Despite their differences in stature and responsibilities, a comparative study of these two figures reveals fascinating insights into how wind and movement were conceptualized across ancient cultures. Vayu: The Hindu Wind God Importance in Hindu Culture: Vayu is one of the most ancient and revered gods in the Hindu pantheon. He is considered the god of wind (Vayu), air, and breath (Prana). In Hindu cosmology, Vayu is a vital force, as wind (air) is essential for all life. Vayu plays a critical role as the sustainer of life through breath and the atmosphere. He is often ...

Stories Of Rudrani In Hinduism

Rudrani is often understood as a manifestation of Parvati , the consort of Lord Shiva in Hinduism. The name "Rudrani" means "the consort of Rudra," a fierce form of Lord Shiva. Parvati, in her many forms, embodies the power (Shakti) that complements and balances the destructive and transformative nature of Shiva. There are several important stories of Rudrani (or Parvati) in Hindu mythology that highlight her strength, compassion, and fierce energy. Below are 10 key stories of Rudrani, with their moral lessons and modern-day relevance. 1. Marriage of Rudrani and Shiva Story : Parvati, an incarnation of Sati, undertakes severe penance to marry Lord Shiva. Despite initial resistance from Shiva due to his ascetic nature, Parvati's devotion and austerity win his heart, and they eventually marry. Moral Lesson : Persistence and devotion can overcome even the most difficult obstacles. True love requires dedication and effort. Modern Relevance : In today’s world, the s...

How To Overcome Airplane Anxiety And Fear? – Hinduism Solutions And Practical Approaches

Overcoming airplane anxiety and fear from a Hindu perspective involves a blend of spiritual, practical, and psychological approaches. In Hinduism, several gods, goddesses, and revered sages are associated with overcoming fear, gaining courage, and promoting peace of mind. Here’s a detailed guide that includes mantras, stories, quotes from scriptures, practical day-to-day solutions, and divine guidance from Hinduism: 1. Understanding Airplane Anxiety through the Hindu Lens In Hinduism, fear is seen as a mental state that can be transcended through devotion, self-awareness, and spiritual practices. Fear of flying (aviophobia) can be linked to deeper anxieties, like fear of loss of control, fear of heights, or fear of the unknown. Through prayers, mantras, and worship of deities like Lord Hanuman , Lord Ganesha , and Vayu Dev (the wind god), one can find strength and comfort. 2. Ideal Deities for Overcoming Airplane Anxiety Lord Hanuman (God of Strength and Courage) Role in Overcoming An...

Vasudeva – Meaning of Sri Krishna’s Name Vasudev

Vasudeva, or Vasudev, is one among the numerous names of God Vishnu. It is popularly used to refer to Sri Krishna. Vasudev was also one of the names given to Krishna during the naming ceremony. Meaning of Vasudeva is mentioned in the Vishnu Purana. Vasudev means one who resides in all objects and bestows them with splendor. Vishnu Purana states: He who is Prime and Greater than the greatest, who is the Supreme Soul resident in himself – who cannot be differentiated by form, color etc., who is without deterioration or destruction, and without birth, growth and dissolution; who can only be asserted as existing – is called by the learned as Vasudeva, in consequence of his existing everywhere and in all objects. Naming of Sri Krishna as Vasudev: As the infant was of dark complexion the first name that was given to the baby was Krishna . He was also given the name Vasudeva by Sage Garga.

How To Overcome Appetite? – Hinduism Solutions And Practical Approaches

 In Hinduism, overcoming appetite, especially overindulgence or craving for food, is not only seen as a way to maintain physical health but also as a vital step toward spiritual progress. Appetite represents both a physical and symbolic force, and controlling it leads to self-discipline, clarity of mind, and inner strength. Hindu scriptures provide various methods, mantras, and spiritual practices to manage appetite and cravings. Practical Day-to-Day Solutions: Mindful Eating (Yogic Approach): Practice Ahimsa (non-harming) towards your body by being conscious of what and how much you eat. This is based on the idea that eating mindfully nourishes the body while preventing overeating. Eat Sattvic food (pure, fresh, and light food) as it aligns with the principle of purity and supports a calm mind and healthy body. Avoid Rajasic (stimulating) and Tamasic (dulling) foods, which trigger cravings and lethargy. Chew food slowly and practice eating without distractions like television...

How To Overcome Apeirophobia? – Hinduism Solutions And Practical Approaches

Apeirophobia is the fear of infinity or the concept of eternal existence, a feeling of dread or anxiety when thinking about the endlessness of time or the universe. In Hinduism, overcoming such fears often involves a combination of spiritual understanding, worship, and practical approaches rooted in self-realization and devotion to deities who symbolize strength, wisdom, and destruction of illusion. Below is an expanded guide on overcoming Apeirophobia with Hindu practices, including relevant mantras, stories, quotes, and lesser-known information. 1. Spiritual Understanding of Infinity in Hinduism In Hindu philosophy, infinity (Ananta) and eternity are seen as integral aspects of the Divine. The fear of infinity can be mitigated through the understanding that Brahman , the Supreme Consciousness, is eternal and pervades everything. Rather than being a source of fear, infinity is the ultimate goal of union with the Divine, where the individual soul merges with the infinite. The key is t...