Shiva Tandava Stotram

Here is Shiva Tandava Stotram, written and recited by Ravana to appease Mahadeva :


Jatatavigalajjwala pravahapavitasthale

Galeavalambya lambitam bhujangatungamalikam

Damad damad damaddamanninadavaddamarvayam

Chakara chandtandavam tanotu nah shivah shivam .. 1



Jatakatahasambhrama bhramannilimpanirjhari

Vilolavichivallari virajamanamurdhani

Dhagadhagadhagajjva lallalatapattapavake

Kishorachandrashekhare ratih pratikshanam mama .. 2



Dharadharendranandini vilasabandhubandhura

Sphuradigantasantati pramodamanamanase

Kripakatakshadhorani nirudhadurdharapadi

Kvachidiggambare mano vinodametuvastuni .. 3



Jatabhujangapingala sphuratphanamaniprabha

Kadambakunkumadrava praliptadigvadhumukhe

Madandhasindhurasphuratva guttariyamedure

Mano vinodamadbhutam bibhartu bhutabhartari .. 4



Sahastralochanaprabhritya sheshalekhashekhara

Prasunadhulidhorani vidhusaranghripithabhuh

Bhujangarajamalaya nibaddhajatajutakah

Shriyai chiraya jayatam chakorabandhushekharah .. 5



Lalatachatvarajvala ddhanajnjayasphulingabha

Nipitapanchasayakam namannilimpanayakam

Sudhamayukhalekhaya virajamanashekharam

Mahakapali sampade shiro jatalamastu nah .. 6



Karalabhalapattika dhagaddhagaddhagajjvala

Ddhanajnjaya hutikrita prachandapanchasayake

Dharadharendranandini kuchagrachitrapatraka

Prakalpanaikashilpini trilochane ratirmama .. 7



Naveenameghamandali niruddhadurdharasphura-t

Kuhunishithinitamah prabandhabaddhakandharah

Nilimpanirjharidharastanotu krittisindhurah

Kalanidhanabandhurah shriyam jagaddhurandharah .. 8



Praphullanilapankaja prapanchakalimaprabha

Valambikanthakandali ruchiprabaddhakandharam

Smarachchiddam purachchhiddam bhavachchiddam makhachchiddam

Gajachchidandhakachiddam tamantakachchidam bhaje .. 9



Akharvasarvamangala kalakadambamanjari

Rasapravahamadhuri vijrimbhanamadhuvratam

Smarantakam purantakam bhavantakam makhantakam

Gajantakandhakantakam tamantakantakam bhaje .. 10



Jayatvadabhravibhrama bhramadbhujangamashvasa

Dvinirgamatkramasphurat karalabhalahavyavat

Dhimid dhimid dhimidhvanan mridangatungamangala

Dhvanikramapravartita prachandatandavah Shivah .. 11



Drishadvichitratalpayor bhujangamauktikasrajo-r

Garishtharatnaloshthayoh suhridvipakshapakshayoh

Trinaravindachakshushoh prajamahimahendrayoh

Samapravritikah kada sadashivam bhajamyaham .. 12



Kada nilimpanirjharinikunjakotare vasan

Vimuktadurmatih sada shirah sthamanjalim vahan

Vilola lola lochano lalamabhalalagnakah

Shiveti mantramuchcharan kada sukhi bhavamyaham .. 13



Idam hi nityamevamuktamuttamottamam stavam

Pathansmaranbruvannaro vishuddhimeti santatam

Hare gurau subhaktimashu yati nanyatha gatim

Vimohanam hi dehinam sushankarasya chintanam .. 14



Pujavasanasamaye dashavaktrageetam

Yah shambhupujanaparam pathati pradoshe

Tasya sthiram rathagajendraturangayuktam

Lakshmim sadaiva sumukhim pradadati shambhuh .. 15
 

Translation and meaning of Shiva Tandava Stotram :


From His forest-like matted hair flows stream.

In His consecrated neck is hanging lofty garland of serpent.

Damad damad damad damad - to this sound of drum

He did firece Tandava - may that Shiva shower auspiciousness..1



In the pan of His matted hair celestial river flows unsteadily.

Rows of waves roam unsteadily on His head.

In the fire blazing dhagat dhagat dhagat dhagat in forehead,

In the head having crescent moon as jewel - may I find my constant joy..2



Who is mountain king's beautiful dughter's charming sportive-friend,

Whose mind contains glorious universe and its countless beings,

Whose compassionate glance prevents flow of immense miseries,

Who has directions as His clothes - may my heart find bliss in Him..3



Radiance spreads from lustre of the gem in the reddish brown hood of creeping serpent.

Kadamb-juice like read kumkum is smeared all sides in His beaautiful face.

His glittering upper garment is the skin of an intoxicated elephant.

May my heart seek wonderful joy in that Lord of ghosts..4



Indra and all other gods offer flowers,

Pollen dust from which has colored His foot-bed.

His matted hair is tied by the garland of serpent king.

May that holder of Moon in his head give me long-time prosperity..5



Shining sparks of blazing fire from His forehead area

Devoured god of love and leaders of all beings bow to Him.

His crest-jewel gleams with cool moon-rays.

May we get siddhis from His hair-locks..6



In the fire of His flat forehead flaming dhagat dhagat dhagat

He offered the five powerful arrows of the god of love.

He is the sole artist drawing decorative lines on the breasts of mountain king's daughter.

My deep thoughts are in Him who has three eyes..7



His snake-tied neck is dark as if layers of thick new clouds

Have obstructed shining Moon in the midnight.

He holds the celestial river, His cloth is skin read, He holds crescent Moon.

May that bearer of the universe's give us prosperity..8



He has the dark glow of fully blossomed blue lotus

Around the girdle of His neck.

He killed the god of love, destroyed Tripura, liberates from materialistic life, is the sacrifice-destroyer.

He cut off demon Gaja, cut off demon Andhak, cuts off bonds death - I worship Him..9



Because of the sweet honey from the bunch of auspicious Kadamba flowers

He has bees flying all over.

He killed the god of love, destroyed Tripura, liberates from materialistic life, is the sacrifice-destroyer.

He killed demon Gaja, killed demon Andhak, cuts off bonds of death - I worship Him..10



Glory to Lord Siva, who has fire on His forehead,

Fire spreading from breath of snakes wandering and whirling in glorious sky.

dhimit dhimit dhimit auspicious sound from whose drum

Is in tune with His fierce tandava dance..11



Towards different ways of the world, towards a snake or a garland,

Towards precious gems or lump of dirt, friends or enemies,

Towards grass or lotus-eyed people, towards common man and king,

When will I have equal vision and I will worship Lord Sadashiva?..12



When will I be happy living in a hollow place in the thickets of the river,

Being free from ill thinking, folding heads above my head,

And uttering Shiva mantra thus devoted in the God

Of glorious forehead with vibrating eyes..13



One who reads, remebers and talks about this great hyman daily

is purified for ever.

He gets deep devotion in great guru Lord Hara.

Thought of Lord Shankar removes one's delusion..14



One who recites this song composed by Ravan

At the end of prayer to Lord Shiva in the evening-

He gets wealth of chariots, elephants, horses.

Lord Shambhu always gives him prosperity..15


Om Namah Shivaya!
Blessed Be!

Kanaka Dhara Stotra

It is believed that poverty is banished by singing the Kanaka Dhara Stotra. Here are the verses with meaning : 


1
Angam hare pulaka bhooshanamasrayanthi,
Bhringanga neva mukulabharanam thamalam,
Angikrithakhila vibhuthirapanga leela,
Mangalyadasthu mama mangala devathaya.

To the Hari who wears supreme happiness as Ornament,
The Goddess Lakshmi is attracted,
Like the black bees getting attracted,
To the unopened buds of black Tamala tree,
Let her who is the Goddess of all good things,
Grant me a glance that will bring prosperity.

2
Mugdha muhurvidhadhadathi vadhane Murare,
Premathrapapranihithani gathagathani,
Mala dhrishotmadhukareeva maheth pale ya,
Sa ne sriyam dhisathu sagarasambhavaya.

Again and again return ,those glances,
Filled with hesitation and love,
Of her who is born to the ocean of milk,
To the face of Murari,
Like the honey bees to the pretty blue lotus,
And let those glances shower me with wealth.

3
Ameelithaksha madhigamya mudha Mukundam
Anandakandamanimeshamananga thanthram,
Akekara stiththa kaninika pashma nethram,
Bhoothyai bhavenmama bhjangasayananganaya.

With half closed eyes stares she on Mukunda,
Filled with happiness , shyness and the science of love,
On the ecstasy filled face with closed eyes of her Lord,
And let her , who is the wife of Him who sleeps on the snake,
Shower me with wealth.

4
Bahwanthare madhujitha srithakausthube ya,
Haravaleeva nari neela mayi vibhathi,
Kamapradha bhagavatho api kadaksha mala,
Kalyanamavahathu me kamalalayaya

He who has won over Madhu,
Wears the Kousthuba as ornament,
And also the garland of glances, of blue Indraneela,
Filled with love to protect and grant wishes to Him,
Of her who lives on the lotus,
And let those also fall on me,
And grant me all that is good..

5
Kalambudhaalithorasi kaida bhare,
Dharaadhare sphurathi yaa thadinganeva,
Mathu samastha jagatham mahaneeya murthy,
Badrani me dhisathu bhargava nandanaya

Like the streak of lightning in black dark cloud,
She is shining on the dark , broad chest,
Of He who killed Kaidaba,
And let the eyes of the great mother of all universe,
Who is the daughter of Sage Bharghava,
Fallon me lightly and bring me prosperity.

6
Praptham padam pradhamatha khalu yat prabhavath,
Mangalyabhaji madhu madhini manamathena,
Mayyapadetha mathara meekshanardham,
Manthalasam cha makaralaya kanyakaya.

The God of love could only reach ,
The killer of Madhu,
Through the power of her kind glances,
Loaded with love and blessing
And let that side glance ,
Which is auspicious and indolent,
Fall on me.

7
Viswamarendra padhavee bramadhana dhaksham,
Ananda hethu radhikam madhu vishwoapi,
Eshanna sheedhathu mayi kshanameekshanartham,
Indhivarodhara sahodharamidhiraya

Capable of making one as king of Devas in this world,
Her side long glance of a moment,
Made Indra regain his kingdom,
And is making Him who killed Madhu supremely happy.
And let her with her blue lotus eyes glance me a little.

8
Ishta visishtamathayopi yaya dhayardhra,
Dhrishtya thravishta papadam sulabham labhanthe,
Hrishtim prahrushta kamlodhara deepthirishtam,
Pushtim krishishta mama pushkravishtaraya.

To her devotees and those who are great,
Grants she a place in heaven which is difficult to attain,
Just by a glance of her compassion filled eyes,
Let her sparkling eyes which are like the fully opened lotus,
Fall on me and grant me all my desires.

9
Dhadyaddhayanupavanopi dravinambhudaraam,
Asminna kinchina vihanga sisou vishanne,
Dhushkaramagarmmapaneeya chiraya dhooram,
Narayana pranayinee nayanambhuvaha.

Please send your mercy which is like wind,
And shower the rain of wealth on this parched land,,
And quench the thirst of this little chataka bird,
And likewise ,drive away afar my load of sins,
Oh, darling of Narayana,
By the glance from your cloud like dark eyes.

10
Gheerdhevathethi garuda dwaja sundarithi,
Sakambhareethi sasi shekara vallebhethi,
Srishti sthithi pralaya kelishu samsthitha ya,
Thasyai namas thribhvanai ka guros tharunyai.

She is the goddess of Knowledge,
She is the darling of Him who has Garuda as flag,
She is the power that causes of death at time of deluge,
And she is the wife of Him who has the crescent,
And she does the creation , upkeep and destruction at various times,
And my salutations to this lady who is worshipped by all the three worlds.

11
Sruthyai namosthu shubha karma phala prasoothyai,
Rathyai namosthu ramaneeya gunarnavayai,
Shakthyai namosthu satha pathra nikethanayai,
Pushtayi namosthu purushotthama vallabhayai.

Salutations to you as Vedas which give rise to good actions,
Salutation to you as Rathi for giving the most beautiful qualities,
Salutation to you as Shakthi, who lives in the hundred petalled lotus,
And salutations to you who is Goddess of plenty,
And is the consort of Purushottama.

12
Namosthu naleekha nibhananai,
Namosthu dhugdhogdhadhi janma bhoomayai,
Namosthu somamrutha sodharayai,
Namosthu narayana vallabhayai.

Salutations to her who is as pretty.
As the lotus in full bloom,
Salutations to her who is born from ocean of milk,
Salutations to the sister of nectar and the moon,
Salutations to the consort of Narayana.

13
Namosthu hemambhuja peetikayai,
Namosthu bhoo mandala nayikayai,
Namosthu devathi dhaya prayai,
Namosthu Sarngayudha vallabhayai.

Salutations to her who has the golden lotus as seat,
Salutations to her who is the leader of the universe,
Salutations to her who showers mercy on devas,
And salutations to the consort of Him who has the bow called Saranga.

14
Namosthu devyai bhrugu nandanayai,
Namosthu vishnorurasi sthithayai,
Namosthu lakshmyai kamalalayai,
Namosthu dhamodhra vallabhayai.

Salutations to her who is daughter of Bhrigu,
Salutations to her lives on the holy chest of Vishnu,
Salutations to Goddess Lakshmi who lives in a lotus,
And saluations to her who is the consort of Damodhara.

15
Namosthu Kanthyai kamalekshanayai,
Namosthu bhoothyai bhuvanaprasoothyai,
Namosthu devadhibhir archithayai,
Namosthu nandhathmaja vallabhayai.

Salutations to her who is light living in Lotus flower,
Salutations to her who is the earth and also mother of earth,
Salutations to her who is worshipped by Devas,
And salutations to her who is the consort of the son of Nanda.

 

16

Sampath karaani sakalendriya nandanani,
Samrajya dhana vibhavani saroruhakshi,
Twad vandanani dhuritha haranodhythani,
Mamev matharanisam kalayanthu manye.

Giver of wealth, giver of pleasures to all senses,
Giver of the right to rule kingdoms,
She who has lotus like eyes,
She to whom Salutations remove all miseries fast,
And my mother to you are my salutations.

17
Yath Kadaksha samupasana vidhi,
Sevakasya sakalartha sapadha,
Santhanodhi vachananga manasai,
Twaam murari hridayeswareem bhaje

He who worships your sidelong glances,
Is blessed by all known wealth and prosperity,
And so my salutations by word, thought and deed,
To the queen of the heart of my Lord Murari.

18
Sarasija nilaye saroja hasthe,
Dhavalathamamsuka gandha maya shobhe,
Bhagavathi hari vallabhe manogne,
Tribhuvana bhoothikari praseeda mahye

She who sits on the Lotus,
She who has lotus in her hands,
She who is dressed in dazzling white,
She who shines in garlands and sandal paste,
The Goddess who is the consort of Hari,
She who gladdens the mind,
And she who confers prosperity on the three worlds,
Be pleased to show compassion to me.

19
Dhiggasthibhi kanaka kumbha mukha vasrushta,
Sarvahini vimala charu jalaapluthangim,
Prathar namami jagathaam janani masesha,
Lokadhinatha grahini mamrithabhi puthreem.

Those eight elephants from all the diverse directions,
Pour from out from golden vessels,
The water from the Ganga which flows in heaven,
For your holy purifying bath,
And my salutations in the morn to you ,
Who is the mother of all worlds,
Who is the house wife of the Lord of the worlds,
And who is the daughter of the ocean which gave nectar.

20
Kamale Kamalaksha vallabhe twam,
Karuna poora tharingithaira pangai,
Avalokaya mamakinchananam,
Prathamam pathamakrithrimam dhyaya

She who is the Lotus,
She who is the consort,
Of the Lord with Lotus like eyes,
She who has glances filled with mercy,
Please turn your glance on me,
Who is the poorest among the poor,
And first make me the vessel ,
To receive your pity and compassion.

21
Sthuvanthi ye sthuthibhirameeranwaham,
Thrayeemayim thribhuvanamatharam ramam,
Gunadhika guruthara bhagya bhagina,
Bhavanthi the bhuvi budha bhavithasayo.

He who recites these prayers daily,
On her who is personification of Vedas,
On her who is the mother of the three worlds,
On her who is Goddess Rema,
Will be blessed without doubt,
With all good graceful qualities,
With all the great fortunes that one can get,
And would live in the world,
With great recognition from even the learned.

: Adi Shankaracharya

Jai Maa Maha Lakshmi ! 

Blessed Be !

History of Yoga

Yoga as a Hindu philosophy ("darshana") derives from prehistoric roots and develops out of Ancient Indian ascetic practices (tapas). Several steatite seals discovered at Indus Valley Civilization sites depict figures in a yoga- or meditation-like posture. Lord Shiva is regarded as the first yogic Guru or the Adi Guru of yoga. The seal of Mohenjodaro in the Indus Valley Civilization depicting the yogic posture of Shiva, sitting in a meditative pose, is believed to be the oldest record of existence of Yoga in India.

Yoga is mentioned in the earliest literature, the Vedas. A Rig Vedic cosmogonic myth declares an ascetic with "folded legs, soles turned upwards" as per his name. Yoga is discussed quite frequently in Upanishads which predate Patanjali's Sutras. An early reference to meditation is made in Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, which is the earliest Upanishad. However, the actual term "yoga" first occurs in the Katha Upanishad. The main textual sources for the evolving concept of Yoga are the middle Upanishads, the Mahabharata including the Bhagavad Gita, and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.

Yoga Sutras written by Maharshi Patanjali is the foundational text for Yoga which amidst its antiquity is still regarded as the fundamental text of Yoga. All yoga forms practiced today are based on the Patanjali Yoga Sutras. The Patanjali “Yoga Sutras” is divided into four chapters or padas namely Samadhi pada (on contemplation), Sadhana pada (on practice), Vibhuti pada (on properties and powers) and Kaivalya pada (on emancipation and freedom).There are around 196 sutras in the Patanjali yoga sutras. These sutras are absolutely compact, accurate, reflective and devout in approach. Each sutra of the Patanjali yoga sutra is enlightening and is filled with prosperity of knowledge and wisdom.

During the period 1800 and 1900, the teachers of yoga started traveling to the west to attract followers. In the west, yoga evolved as an exercise-related and posture-related technique that involves gentle stretching, breath control and meditation. Later, various other western and Indian teachers became the pioneers who popularized the Hatha Yoga and gained millions of followers. Now the Hatha Yoga has various different schools or styles, which emphasize the various aspects of the practice. Yoga has also been combined with various other exercise techniques to produce “fusion” classes, for example Yogalates, Body Balancing and Body Conditioning. Today, there are millions of people in the U S and the U K practicing Hatha Yoga and other forms of yoga.


Om Namah Shivaya !
Blessed Be !

Guru Parab - The Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak

Guru Parab is celebrated on the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, the first or the founder guru of Sikhs, on the full moon day of Kartika (October-November). Guru Parab, also known as Jyototsava, is one of the most sacred festivals of the Sikhs.
Guru Nanak was born at Talwandi, in 1469, about 45 kms from Lahore, which is known as Nankana Sahib today. Guru Nanak was the founder of the Sikh religion, and also a great philosopher, a social reformer, a poet and a teacher. Guru Nanak said that one need not become a sanyasi sacrificing one's family, to please God. Those who practice devotion, whose mind is pure and who have sympathy, patience and honesty, are in no way inferior to a sanyasi. He preached that we should not ask someone’s caste or creed because those, whose devotion is accepted by God, are good people. God appreciates those who have conquered the 'I' and 'greed'.
A few days before Guru Parab, people take out Prabhat Pheris, or the early morning processions, from Gurdwaras. They go around their locality singing shabd or the religious hymns. Later in the day, special kirtans are arranged in the Gurdwaras. The devotees attend langar or the common meals where everyone eats the same food irrespective of caste, class, or creed. Devotees offer their services for cooking food, cleaning the Gurdwara or carrying out other chores. This is called the Kar Seva.

The celebrations begin with the Akhand path or the continuous reading of Guru Granth Saheb, the sacred book of the Sikhs, three days before Guru Nanak Jayanti. The sacred scripture is read non-stop from beginning to end. The recital lasts for 48 hours and is accompanied by with langar for the devotees attending it. During the Akhand Path, it is customary for the devotees to voluntarily serve food to other devotees. The Akhand Path culminates on the day of the Guru Parab and the holy book is then taken out in a procession, or Nagar Kirtan. It is beautifully decorated with flowers and carried on a float. Five armed guards who are called the panj pyare lead the procession. At the head of the procession is the Nishan Saheb or the Sikh flag.


Jo Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal !
Blessed Be !

The Chhath Puja - Worship of the Sun God

Chhath is an ancient Hindu festival dedicated to Surya, the Hindu Sun God. The Chhath puja is performed on Kartik Shukala Shashti, which is the sixth day of the month of Kartik in the Hindu Calendar. This falls typically in the month of October or November in the Gregorian Calendar. The Chhath Puja is performed in order to thank Surya for sustaining life on earth and to request the granting of certain wishes. The Sun, considered the god of energy and of the life-force, is worshiped during the Chhath fesival to promote well-being, prosperity and progress. In Hindu mythology, Sun worship is believed to help cure a variety of diseases, including leprosy, and helps ensure the longevity and prosperity of family members, friends, and elders.
It is believed that the ritual of Chhath puja may even predate the ancient Vedas texts, as the Rigveda contains hymns worshiping the Sun god and describes similar rituals. The rituals also find reference in the Sanskrit epic poem Mahābhārata in which Draupadi is depicted as observing similar rites. It is also believed that Chhath was started by Karna, the son of Surya Putra Karna who ruled over the Anga Desh (present day Bhagalpur district of Bihar) during the Mahabharat Age. He was a great warrior and fought against the Pandavas in the Kurukshetra War.
Its yogic/scientific history dates back to the Vedic times. The rishis of yore used this method to remain without any external intake of food as they were able to obtain energy directly from the sun's rays. This was done through the Chhath method.
The word chhath denotes the number 6 in Hindi and the festival is celebrated on the sixth day of the Hindu lunar month of Kartik. The word Chhath is also a compound of two words: "Chah" meaning "six stages", and "Hath" refers to the science of Hath Yog (austerity). The word Chhath refers to the process of consciously obtaining the solar energy through six stages involving the methods of Hath Yog. "Hath" here refers to the austerities such as fasting and standing in water.

The rituals of the festival are rigorous and are observed over a period of four days. They include holy bathing, fasting and abstaining from drinking water (Vratta), standing in water for long periods of time, and offering prashad (prayer offerings) and arghya to the setting and rising sun. Chhath is a ritual bathing festival that follows a period of abstinence and ritual segregation of the worshiper from the main household for four days. During this period, the worshiper observes ritual purity, and sleeps on the floor on a single blanket.This is the only holy festival which has no involvement of any pandit (priest). The devotees offer their prayers to the setting sun and then the rising sun in celebrating its glory as the cycle of birth starts with death. It is seen as the most glorious form of Sun worship.
The Chhath Puja is celebrated primarily in Bihar, Jharkhand and the Terai regions of Nepal, and is more prevalent in areas where migrants from those areas have a presence.  It is also celebrated in all regions and major urban centers in India. This festival is celebrated in the regions including but not exclusive to the northeast region of India, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Tamil Nadu, Chandigarh, Gujarat, Delhi, Mumbai and Mauritius.

Om Shree Bhaskaray Namah !
Blessed Be !

Diwali - The Festival of Lights

Diwali , the Indian festival of lights, falls on the day of 'Amavasyaa', when the moon does not rise and there is darkness all around. Light, which is symbol of hope and positive energy, indicates the victory of good over evil. By spreading light in every corner of our homes, we try to destroy the reign of darkness, on the night of Diwali.
To Hindus, darkness represents ignorance, and light is a metaphor for knowledge. Therefore, lighting a lamp symbolizes the destruction, through knowledge, of all negative forces- wickedness, violence, lust, anger, envy, greed, bigotry, fear, injustice, oppression and suffering, etc.
While Deepavali is popularly known as the "festival of lights", the most significant spiritual meaning is "the awareness of the inner light". Central to Hindu philosophy is the assertion that there is something beyond the physical body and mind which is pure, infinite, and eternal, called the Atman. Just as we celebrate the birth of our physical being, Diwali is the celebration of this inner light, in particular the knowing of which outshines all darkness (removes all obstacles and dispels all ignorance), awakening the individual to one's true nature, not as the body, but as the unchanging, infinite, immanent and transcendent reality. With the realization of the Atman comes universal compassion, love, and the awareness of the oneness of all things (higher knowledge). This brings Ananda (joy or peace). While the story behind Deepavali and the manner of celebration varies from region to region (festive fireworks, worship, lights, sharing of sweets), the essence is the same – to rejoice in the Inner Light (Atman) or the underlying reality of all things (Brahman).

 

Lakshmi Puja (30 Ashvin or 15 Krishna Paksha Ashvin): Lakshmi Puja marks the most important day of Diwali celebrations in North India. Hindu homes worship Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Ganesh, the God of auspicious beginnings, and then light lamps in the streets and homes to welcome prosperity and well-being.

 

Significant events associated with Diwali:

The return of Lord Shree Ram after 14 years of Vanvas (banishment), and the death of Ravana. To welcome his return, candles were lit in rows of 20.

The killing of Narakasura: Celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi, one day before Deepavali, it commemorates the killing of the evil demon Narakasura, who wreaked havoc. Krishna's wife Satyabhama killed Narakasura during the Dwapara yuga. In another version of the belief, the demon was killed by Krishna or Krishna provoked his wife Satyabhama to kill Narshna, defeating Indra.


Jai Shree Ram !
Blessed Be !

The Gayatri Mantra

Gayatri Mantra (the mother of the Vedas), the foremost mantra in Hinduism and Hindu beliefs, inspires wisdom. It is a highly revered mantra, based on a Vedic Sanskrit verse from a hymn of the Rigveda (3.62.10), attributed to the rishi Vishwamitra. The mantra is named for its vedic gayatri metre. As the verse invokes the deva Savitr, it is also called Savitri. The Gayatri Mantra is repeated and cited very widely in vedic literature, and praised in several well-known classical Hindu texts such as Manusmriti, Harivamsa, and the Bhagavad Gita. The mantra is an important part of the Upanayanam ceremony for young males in Hinduism, and has long been recited by Brahmin males as part of their daily rituals. Modern Hindu reform movements spread the practice of the mantra to include women and all castes and its use is now very widespread.

The Mantra : 

Maa Gayatri :

English pronunciation :

OM BHOOR BHUWAH SWAHA,
TAT SAVITUR VARENYAM
BHARGO DEVASAYA DHEEMAHI
DHIYO YO NAHA PRACHODAYAT.

Meaning : 

1. Swami Vivekananda: We meditate on the glory of that Being who has produced this universe; may He enlighten our minds.

2. S. Radhakrishnan: We meditate on the effulgent glory of the divine Light; may he inspire our understanding.

3. The Arya Samaj interpretation: O God ! Giver of life, Remover of all pain and sorrows, Bestower of happiness, the Creator of the Universe, Thou art most luminous, adorable and destroyer of sins. We meditate upon thee. May thou inspire, enlighten and guide our intellect in the right direction.

4. The Brahmo Samaj interpretation: We meditate on the worshipable power and glory of Him who has created the earth, the nether world and the heavens (i.e. the universe), and who directs our understanding.


Jai Maa Gayatri !
Blessed Be !

Hinduism - The Eternal Religion

Hinduism is said to be the oldest religion of the world. It is at least 8000 to 9000 years old. It is said that Hinduism might have started as Dravidian civilization and later merged with Aryan civilization. Hinduism started as Shruti - that which is heard.  The great seers of ancient times called Rishis who had perfected themselves have heard in their hearts, eternal truths and they taught those truths to disciples by telepathy and later they wrote them in books. Vedas and Upanishads are known as Shruti literature. Rest is called Smriti - that which is remembered -  literature.
All Hindu scriptures were considered as revealed truths of God. In fact, Hindu scriptures say that all Hindu Scriptures were written by God. The very first sacred books of Hinduism are called Vedas. Vedas means knowledge. There are four Vedas and they claim to teach men the highest aspects of truths which can lead them to God. Vedas and Upanishads are Shruti scriptures. The word Veda came from the root word "vid" meaning "to know". Vedas are the very first scriptures of Hinduism. Vedas as per scriptures was written by God. Vedas state "Self Ralization" is one and the goal of human life. Vedas also discuss in detail rituals and ceremonies to attain self-realization. There are 4 Vedas. They are:
1.    Rig Veda - Knowledge of Hymns - 10589 verses,
2.    Yajur Veda - Knowledge of Liturgy - 3988 verses
3.    Sama Veda - Knowledge of Music - 1549 verses
4.    Atharva Veda - Knowledge given by Sage Athrvana - 6000 Verses

Ayurveda is considered to be a Upa Veda of Atharva Veda. It is the Hindu Medicine Scripture, which consists of more than 100,000 verses initially.
Hinduism is said to be not merely a religion, but a commonwealth of religions. It is more a way of life than a form of thought. The theist and the atheist, the skeptic and the agnostic may all be Hindus if they accept the Hindu system of culture and life.  Hinduism insists not on religious conformity but on a spiritual and ethical outlook of life. Hinduism is not a sect but a fellowship of all who accept the law of right and earnestly seek for the truth. Hinduism is not bound up with a creed or a book, a prophet or a founder, but is persistent search for truth on the basis of a continuously renewed experience. Hinduism is human thought about God in continuous evolution.
Hinduism represents an effort at comprehension and cooperation. It recognizes the diversity in man’s approach towards, and realization of, the one Supreme Reality. For it the essence of religion consists in man’s hold on what is eternal and immanent in all being.
Thus, it is said, Hinduism is not just a faith. It is the union of reason and intuition that cannot be defined but is only to be experienced. Evil and error are not ultimate. There is no Hell, for that means there is a place where God is not, and there are sins which exceed his love. In the history of the world, Hinduism is the only religion, that exhibits a complete independence and freedom of the human mind, its full confidence in its own powers. Hinduism is freedom, especially the freedom in thinking about God.


Jai Shree Ram !
Blessed Be !

Beautiful Facts About Hinduism

Hinduism is not just a faith. It is the union of reason and intuition that cannot be defined but is only to be experienced. Evil and error are not ultimate. There is no Hell, for that means there is a place where God is not, and there are sins which exceed his love. In the history of the world, Hinduism is the only religion, that exhibits a complete independence and freedom of the human mind, its full confidence in its own powers. Hinduism is freedom, especially the freedom in thinking about God.Hinduism recognizes that each religion is inextricably bound up with its culture and can grow organically. While it is aware that all religions have not attained to the same level of truth and goodness, it insists that they all have a right to express themselves. Religions reform themselves by interpretations and adjustments to one another. The Hindu attitude is one of positive fellowship not negative tolerance.

According to the Bhagavad Gita, even those who worship other gods (anyadevatah), ancestral deities, elemental powers, if they do so with faith, then their faith is justified, for the Divine accepts every form conceived by the worshiper.
Hinduism is not bound up with a creed or a book, a prophet or a founder, but is persistent search for truth on the basis of a continuously renewed experience. Hinduism is human thought about God in continuous evolution. Hinduism represents the spirit, the spirit that has such extraordinary vitality as to survive political and social changes. From the beginning of recorded history, Hinduism has borne witness to the sacred flame of spirit, which must remain for ever, even while our dynasties crash and empires tumble into ruins. It alone can give our civilization a soul, and men and women a principle to live by. Hinduism is an inheritance of thought and aspiration, living and moving with the movement of life itself.




Om Namo Naraynaya !
Blessed Be !
                                                                                            
                                                                                               Source : Swami Vivekananda, S Radhakrisnan

Beware of so called Gurus, issuing twisted and ugly diktats about Hinduism

Of late, I have seen comments and links like " Don't waste your time in worshiping Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha " and focus only on Lord Krishna. I want to tell all such people that this is a very narrow, twisted and self-centered explanation of Hinduism and its very soul. This is starting a dangerous trend, and hurting to Hindus and Hinduism.
Lord Shiva is worshiped even by Lord Vishnu. There are instances when Lord Rama and Lord Krishna worshiped Lord Shiva. Similarly, Lord Ganesha has to be worshiped before each and every puja, otherwise the puja is not considered to be successful. Even if someone wants to worship Lord Krishna, he has to start it with worshiping Lord Ganesha. Ultimately, they all are revered, and are one.

Please don't believe in such narrow explanation and diktats of various so called Gurus about Hinduism, who tell you to worship one God and avoid and insult others. All the Gods are equal and one. There is no place for extremism in Hinduism. If someone wants to practice Hinduism, they have to accept it on a whole, as it is. They can't have a tailor made Hinduism for them.
Please raise your voice whenever you come across any misleading piece of information about Hinduism.


Om Namah Shivay !
Blessed Be !

Vijaya Dashami – Triumph of Good Over Evil

India is unique in its culture and civilization. This is a land of fun filled fairs and festivals, forever pulsating with life and exuberance.
Navratri culminates in Dussehra and Vijaya Dashami is an occasion to celebrate Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana. It is also the right time to worship the Gods and Goddesses who represent “ Shakti “
The word Dussehra might have its origin in the words ‘dus’ ( the ten faces of Ravana ) and ‘har’ ( defeat ) – the defeat of the one with ten faces.
On Dussehra, it is also a custom to make use of the new harvest only after offering it to the Gods and Goddesses. So, ten cobs of green maize are first offered to the local deities. Hence, the name ‘dus’ ( ten ) and ‘hard’ ( green maize ).

According to Hindu mythology, once Ravana was worshipping Lord Shiva at Elephanta Caves – an islamd near present day Mumbai. Ten big idols were made for the purpose. Ravana cut his head off ten times and offered it to Lord Shiva, but every time his head was restored by the Lord. Thus, Ravana got another name ‘dus-hara’.
On this day, the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkarna and Meghnad are burnt as a symbol of triumph of Good over Evil.

Jai Shree Ram !
Blessed Be !

Hinduism And It’s Divine Spirituality

Hinduism promotes peace universally. Hinduism says that believers of all faiths go to heaven. It also states that gods of all the religions are true. Hinduism is the religion which says that all paths lead to that ultimate One. An important Hindu prayer is "Loka Samasta Sukhino Bhavantu" which means let the whole world be happy !
Hinduism respects all living beings. Hindus believe that there is divinity in every one. The Hindu salutation 'Namaskar' or 'Namaste' means that I bow to the divinity in you.
Hinduism worships the feminine form. It has high standards for women, and Hindus worship feminine goddesses like Durga, Kali, Lakshmi , Radha and Sita. Hindu women have a high place in the Hindu society.
Hindu mythology and scriptures are divine and pearls of wisdom. The Vedas , The Upnishadas, The Gita, The Ramayana, The Mahabharata, The Srimadbhagvatam, all teach us good morals; and help us in every walk of  life.

Hinduism also promotes good mental and physical health. It is not only a religion but also a way of life. The practice of getting up early in the morning and taking bath, and then practicing Yoga keeps one in good stead. Hinduism promotes vegetarianism, thus not eating meat keeps us healthy.
Hinduism is a celebration of life. The fun and frolic associated with Hindu festivals can be seen only in Hindu religion. The Festival of Light or Deepavali or Diwali, gives us the message of victory over the evil. It gives us renewed faith and hope in life. The Festival of colors or Holi, also gives us the same message – victory of good over the evil. It fills our lives with colors and promotes peace and brotherhood, as on this day, all the enmity is forgotten and people become friends again.


Jai Shree Krishna !
Blessed Be...!

Saptashloki Durga

 

This Sapta Shloki Durga Stotra is in Sanskrit and it is told to Bhagwan Shiva by Durga Mata herself. Shiva asked Durga “tell me what your devotees should do to achieve success in their endeavor easily and without any troubles?”

Durga Mata told him that my devotees may worship me by reciting 7 slokas with faith, devotion and concentration. By doing this they will receive all my blessings and will be successful in there every endeavor. Besides they will receive wealth, health, good memory, knowledge, success, good family life and victory. All their troubles, fear, sorrow and poverty will be removed from their life.

Many Durga devotees read Durga Sapta shati on many occasions in a year. However all devotees can’t read it since it is very difficult and is of 700 stanzas. It takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete it. So for such devotees this Sapta Shloki Durga Stotra is an alternate. These 7 shlokas of the stotra are from Durga Sapta Shati only. They can recite this stotra daily with faith, devotion and concentration.


Jai Maa Durga !
Blessed Be !

Govindashtakam

Satyam gyanamanantam nityamanaakaasham paramaakaasham
Goshthapraanganaringanalolamanaayaasam paramaayaasam
Maayaakalpitanaanaakaaramanaakaaram bhuvanaakaaram
Kshmaayaa naathamanaatham pranamata govindam paramaanandam

Extol Govinda, Who is the eternal bliss, Who is the eternal truth, Who is knowledge, Who is eternal, Who is beyond the skies, Who is the final limit, Who roams in the courtyard of cowshed in Vraja, Who needs no effort, Who is the final effort, Who is assuming various forms in the form of Maya, Who is without form, Who is the form of the universe, Who is Lord [incarnated] on the earth, and Who has no Lord.

Mritsnaamatsiheti yasodaataadanashaishava santraasam
Vyaaditavaktraalokitalokaalokachaturdashalokaalim
Lokatrayapuramoolastambham lokaalokamanaalokam
Lokesham paramesham pranamata govindam paramaanandam

Extol Govinda, Who is the eternal bliss, Who ran away with the fear of caning from Yasoda who said thus ‘‘Were You eating soil here?’’, Who then showed the world, the world beyond and the swarm of fourteen planes of existence in His open mouth [to His mother], Who is the basis or pillar of the existence of the three worlds, Who is the light of the world, Who needs no world to in, Who is the Lord of the world, and Who is the supreme Lord.


Traivishtaparipuveeraghnam kshitibhaaraghnam bhavarogaghnam
kaivalyam navaneetaahaaramanaahaaram bhuvanaahaaram
Vaimalyasphutachetovrittivisheshaabhaasamanaabhaasam
Saivam kevalashaantam pranamata govindam paramaanandam

Extol Govinda, Who is the eternal bliss, Who destroys the strength of the enemies of demi-gods, Who destroys the weight present on the earth, Who destroys the disease of metempsychosis, Who is the only one, Who eats freshly prepared butter, Who requires no food, Who is the food of the universe, Who is observed in the special consciousness state of spotless blossmed mind, Who cannot be [fully] observed, Who adores Shiva, and Who is always at rest.


Gopaalam prabhuleelaa vigraha gopaalam kulagopaalam
Gopeekhelanagovardhanadhritileelaalaalitagopaalam
Gobhirnigadita govindasphutanaamaanam bahunaamaanam
Gopeegocharadooram pranamata govindam paramaanandam

Extol Govinda, Who is the eternal bliss, Who is known as Gopala, Who took the form of a cow-rearer for the sake of sport, Who incarnated in the lineage of a cow-rearer, Who did spectacular sport by playing with Gopis and lifting the Govardhana mountain, Who was given a stainless name of Govinda by the cows (Kamadhenu), Who has many names, and Who is beyond the scope of perception of the Gopis.


Gopeemandalagoshtheebhedam bhedaavasthamabhedaabham
Shashwadgokhuranirdhootoddhatadhuleedhoosarasaubhaagyam
Sraddhaabhaktigriheetaanandamachintyam chintitasadbhaavam
Chintaamanimahimaanam pranamata govindam paramaanandam

Extol Govinda, Who is the eternal bliss, Who enters the meeting place of the group of Gopis, Who remains like an un-entered enlightenment in the state of being present at the meeting place, Whose beauty is added by the continuous association with the dust risen from the striking of cow-hooves at the ground, Who accepts devotion with happiness, Who is beyond reason, Who is reasoned with nice emotions, and Who is as great as the jewel of thought.

Snanavyaakula yoshidwastra mupaadaayaagamupaarudham
Vyaditasanteeratha digvastraa hyupadaatumupaakarshantam
Nirdhootadwayashokavimoham buddham buddherantah-stham
Sattamatrashareeram pranamata govindam paramaanandam

Extol Govinda, Who is the eternal bliss, Who sits on a tree having collected the clothes of the Vraja maidens bathing in the river, Who asked the Gopis to come closer to get the clothes back, Who is bereft of both unhappiness and passion, Who is wise, Who is situated inside the hearts of wise, and Who body is mere existence.

kantam kaaranakaaranamaadimanaadim kaalamanabhaasam
kaalindeegatakaaliyashirasi muhunrityantam nrityantam
kaalam kaalakalaateetam kalitaashesham kalidoshaghnam
kaalatrayagatihetum pranamata govindam paramaanandam

Extol Govinda, Who is the eternal bliss, Who is resplendent, Who is the reason behind reason, Who is the beginning of the universe, Who is without a beginning, Who is the passage of time, Who is without luminosity, Who at once started dancing after entering the water of Kalindi, Who is death, Who is beyond the play of death, Who is made of nothing [formless], Who destroys the malice of Kaliyuga, and Who is the reason for the existence of past, present and future.|


Vrindaavanabhuvi vrindaarakagana vrindaaraadhyam vande'ham
kundaabhaamalamandasmerasudhaanandam suhridaanandam
Vandyaasheshamahaamunimaanasa vandyaanandapadadwandwam
Vandyaasheshagunaabdhima pranamata govindam paramaanandam

I adore Govinda, Who is prayed by the group of Vraja maidens in the territory of Vrindavana, Who is prayed by demi-gods and Vrinda (a maiden), Who has a beautiful spotless smile like jasmine which gives the pleasure of divine nectar, and Who is the pleasure of friends. Praise Govinda, Whose dual-feet is worth of reverence by the minds of great sages and rest alike. Praise Govinda, Who is the abode of all the qualities. Extol Govinda, Who is the eternal bliss.


Govindaashtakametadadheete govindaarpitachetaa yo
Govindaachyuta maadhavavishno gokulanaayaka krishneti
Govindaangaghri sarojadhyaanasudhaajaladhautasamastaagho
Govindam paramaanandaamritamantah-stham sa samabhyeti

That who submits his (or her) mind to Govinda, chants the name of Govinda, Acyuta, Madhava, Vishnu, Gokulanayaka, Krishna and thus, washes all the sins by meditating on the lotus-feet of Govinda, and sings this Govindashtakam — he (or she) internalizes the divine nectar like eternally blissful Govinda.


Jai Shree Krishna !
Blessed Be...! 

Gopika Viraha Geetam

Ehi Murare kunjavihare ehi pranata-jana-bandho
Hey Madhava Madhumathana varenya Keshava karunasindho

O Murari! O the One Who roams in gardens! O Friend of hapless people! O Madhav! O slayer of Madhu! O desirable one! O Keshav! O Ocean of mercy! Come close to us (says the Gopika).



Raasnikunje gunjati niyatam bhramarshatam kila kanta Ehi nibhrit-patha-pantha
Twamiha yache darshanadanam hey Madhusudana shanta

Hundreds of shiny bumble-bees are continuously buzzing in the gardens of (our) Raas. O non-dual path follower! Come close. We all are craving for the sight of You, O Madhusudan, the quiet one!



Shunyam kusumasanamiha kunje shunyah kelikadambah Deenah kekikdambah
Mridu-kala-nadam kila savishadam roditi Yamunaswambhah

The throne of flowers made in the garden is empty [because You are not here]; the sport at the side of Kadamb³ tree is missing too. The river Yamuna is consistently flowing with the rhythm of her waves imitating a cry; even she is missing Your presence.

Nav-neeraj-dhar-Shyamala-sundara Chandra-kusuma-roochivesha Gopi-gana-hridayesha
Govardhana-dhara Vrindavana-chara vanshidhara Parmesha

O the One who holds a new lotus! O Shyam! O Beautiful! O Moon faced and
flower bodied! O the ruler of our (Gopis') hearts! O the One who held
Govardhan Mountain! O cow rearer of Vrindavan! O Flute holder! O Supreme
God!



Radharanjana kansa-nishudana prantistavaka-charane Nikhil-nirashraya-sharane
Ehi Janardana peetambara-dhara kunje manthar pawane.
O enticer of Radha! O Slayer of Kansa (a mighty demon)! O Complete one! I am bowing into Your feet which is the shelter of the unsheltered! O Janardan! O the One, who is adorned with yellow robes! Come close to me in this garden.


Jai Shree Krishna !
Blessed Be...!

Shravan - The Holiest Month

Shravan month is the fifth month of the Hindu calender beginning from Chaitra, and is the most auspicious month of the Chaturmas. On Purnima or fullmoon day, or during the course of the month the star 'Shravan' rules the sky, hence the month is called Shravan. This month is spread out with innumerably religious festivals and ceremonies and almost all the days of this month are auspicious.
Shravan is considered the holiest month of the year. Each monday of this month, known as Shravana Somvar, is a special day in Shiva temples where the dharanatra hangs over the linga or the idol to bathe it with holy water, day and night. Devotees pile the linga high with Bel leaves and flowers and fast till sunset. The nandadeep (24 hour lamp) burns steadily in the temples.

It is believed that when the churning of oceans - Samudra Manthan - took place in the month of Shravan, fourteen different types of rubies came out. Thirteen of these were distributed amongst the demons, except Halahal (poison). Lord Shiva drank the Halahal and stored it in his throat. Hence the name Neelkantha (meaning blue throat) is attributed to Shiva.To reduce the strong effect of poison, Lord Shiva wore the crescent moon on his head. All the Gods, thereafter started offering the Ganges water to Lord Shiva to make lessen the effect of poison.
Since, this happened in the month of Shravana, since then the Shiva devotees offer the Ganges water in this month. It is considered highly auspicious to wear a rudraksha in Shravan month. As, Mondays or Somvars of Shravan month are specially observed with austerity. All Mondays are devoted to the worship of Shiva as this day is sacred to Lord Shiva. No other Mondays of other months are so greatly honoured.The belief is that in Shravan month, offering milk to Lord Shiva earns a lot of punya.

Om Namah Shivaya
Blessed Be...!

Madhurashtakam

Adharam Madhuram, Vadanam Madhuram,
Nayanam Madhuram, Hasitam Madhuram,
Hridayam Madhuram, Gamanam Madhuram,
Madhuradhipater-akhilam Madhuram.

Sweet are thine lips, Krishna,
So are thine sweet cherubic face,
Sweet are thine jet black eyes, Krishna
So is thine soulful laugh,
Sweet is thine loving heart, Krishna
So is thine beautiful gait,
Hey king of all sweetness in this world,
Everything about Thee is sweet.


Vachanam Madhuram, Charitam Madhuram,
Vasanam Madhuram, Valitam Madhuram,
Chalitam Madhuram, Bhramitam Madhuram,
Madhuradhipater-akhilam Madhuram.

Sweet are thine sweetest words, Krishna,
So is thine divine story.
Sweet is the place of your stay , Krishna,
So is thine greatness,
Sweet are thine movements , Krishna,
So is thine confusion.
Hey king of all sweetness in this world,
Everything about Thee is sweet.



Venur Madhura, Renur Madhura,
Panir Madhura, Padou Madhura,
Nrityam Madhuram, Sakhyam Madhuram,
Madhuradhipater-akhilam Madhuram

Sweet is thine flute , Krishna,
So is thine foot-dust,
Sweet are thine hands Krishna,
So are thine feet.
Sweet is thine dance Krishna,
So is thine friendship.
Hey king of all sweetness in this world,
Everything about Thee is sweet



Geetam Madhuram, Peetam Madhuram,
Bhuktam Madhuram,Suptam Madhuram,
Roopam Madhuram, Tilakam Madhuram
Madhuradhipater-akhilam Madhuram.

Sweet is thine song, Krishna,
So is what you drink,
Sweet is what you eat, Krishna,
So is your sleep,
Sweet are thine looks , Krishna,
So is thine Tilaka,
Hey king of all sweetness in this world,
Everything about Thee is sweet.

Karanam Madhuram, Taranam Madhuram,
Haranam Madhuram, Ramanam Madhuram,
Vamitam Madhuram, Shamitam Madhuram,
Madhuradhipater-akhilam Madhuram.

Sweet are thine deeds, Krishna,
So is thine path of salvation,
Sweet is thine theft , Krishna,
So is thine play of love,
Sweet are thine oblations, Krishna,
So is thine tranquility,
Hey king of all sweetness in this world,
Everything about Thee is sweet



Gunja Madhura, Mala Madhura,
Yamuna Madhura, Veechi Madhura,
Salilam Madhuram, Kamalam Madhuram,
Madhuradhipater-akhilam Madhuram.

Sweet is thine necklace of berries, Krishnam
So is thine garland,
Sweet is thine river Yamuna, Krishna,
So are the ripples in the river,
Sweet is thine water , Krishna,
So is the lotus in the water,
Hey king of all sweetness in this world,
Everything about Thee is sweet



Gopi Madhura, Leela Madhura,
Yuktam Madhuram, Muktam Madhuram,
Drishtam Madhuram,Shishtam Madhuram,
Madhuradhipater-akhilam Madhuram

Sweet are thine Gopis , Krishna,
So is thine playful sport,
Sweet are thine right thoughts,Krishna,
So is thine salvation,
Sweet is what you see, Krishna,
So is what is left out,
Hey king of all sweetness in this world,
Everything about Thee is sweet



Gopa Madhura, Gavo Madhura,
Yashtir Madhura, Srishtir Madhura,
Dalitam Madhuram, Phalitam Madhuram,
Madhuradhipater-akhilam Madhuram.

Sweet are thine Gopas , Krishna,
So are thine cows,
Sweet is thine staff, Krishna,
So is thine creation,
Sweet is what you trample , Krishna,
So are thine jokes,
Hey king of all sweetness in this world,
Everything about Thee is sweet

Om Sri Keshavaya Namah
Blessed Be... !

Crossing The Samsara Sagara

If one has the same degree of interest in attaining Self-knowledge, meditation and Self-bliss as one has in attaining material objects, one would have no difficulty in crossing the samsara sagara, the ocean of rebirth. If one develops non-attachment towards worldly objects, stays clear of desire, passion and anger and loves one's real Self, there is nothing in one's attaining liberation instantly.
One's body is not really beautiful. If it were, it would remain beautiful even after death. It's a bag of bones, muscle and fat and will finally disintegrate when it becomes lifeless.
The above thoughts should be placed before the mind repeatedly. One should get rid of identification with body, knowing it to be unreal, a storehouse of waste and an abode of miseries, and dwell in the conviction of being the Atman. The body is like a house which we have sometime. The house, which you are attached to and think you are the owner of, is not yours. The body is made up of the five elements of Nature. When you wake up to the Truth, as a 'jijansu' or inquisitive aspirant, you will realize, " I am not this house made up of the five elements. I am Truth, Consciousness and Bliss, the Absolute Self which is distinct from body.

The mind is both the the friend and enemy of man. If you have overcome the mind, it will be your friend. If the mind is controlled, the senses too will be brought under control.
There are many ways to control the mind. For example, japa of the divine name, the holy company of saints and practicing Pranayama. A good and effective means among these is japa of the divine name. A truly inquisitive aspirant attains salvation. Constant practice, contemplation and meditation make the aspirant established in the conviction of being the Atman. Hence one should constantly be engaged in the practice of contemplation and meditation to attain freedom from all miseries and realize the Bliss Supreme.

Blessed Be...!

Pranayama and The Seven Chakras

Breathing is life. It is one of our most vital functions. One of the Five Principles of Yoga is Pranayama or Breathing Exercise which promotes proper breathing. Proper Breathing, in a Yogic point of view, is to bring more oxygen to the blood and to the brain, and to control prana or the vital life energy. Pranayama - the science of breath control, consist a series of exercises intended to meet these needs and to keep the body in vibrant health.

The Chakras are the seven main energy centers in the body. They are located along the Spine, starting at the base and running upwards to the crown of the head. The Chakras are described as "whirling disks of light", and each Chakra radiates a specific color and energy. As each Chakra relates to specific spiritual, emotional, psychological and physical issues, the conscious awareness and the balancing of these energy centers lead to well-being.

Chakra 1: Muladhara Chakra
The first Chakra, Muladhara (root), is located at the base of the spine. Its color is red and its issues are survival, stability, and self-sufficiency.

Chakra 2: Svadhisthana Chakra
The second Chakra, Svadhisthana (sweetness), is located at the lower abdomen (between belly button and pelvic bone). Its color is orange and its issues are sexuality, creativity, relationships and emotions.

Chakra 3: Manipura Chakra
The third Chakra, Manipura (lustrous gem), is located at the solar plexus (between belly button and bottom of rib cage). Its color is yellow and its issues are personal power, self esteem, willfulness and energy.

Chakra 4: Anahata Chakra
The fourth Chakra, Anahata (not struck), is located at the heart (center of the chest). Its color is green and its issues are love, compassion, acceptance, and trust.

Chakra 5: Vishuddha Chakra
The fifth Chakra, Vissudha (purification), is located at the throat. Its color is bright blue and its issues are communication, inspiration, expression, and faith.

Chakra 6: Ajna Chakra
The sixth Chakra, Ajna (to perceive), is located between the eyebrows, just above the bridge of the nose. Its color is indigo blue and its issues are psychic, emotional and mental intelligence, and intuition.

Chakra 7: Sahasrara Chakra
The seventh Chakra, Sahasrara (thousand petaled), is located at the crown (top) of the head. Its color is white or violet and its issues are devotion, inspiration, selflessness, and spiritual understanding.

Taking the Kundalini energy up from the Muladhara Chakra to the Sahasrara Chakra is the main goal of Kundalini Yoga. They use different Yoga Techniques in order to awaken the Kundalini (serpent energy) which is resting in the Muladhara Chakra and make it flow from the base of the spine to the top of the head. Once Kundalini reaches its final destination, the Sahasrara Chakra, you will be in the knowledge space or Chidakasa.

Blessed Be...!

The Mantra To Keep You Cheerful

If you want to be ever cheerful, practice the following mantra : "Even this shall pass." Let this mantra inscribed indelibly in your heart. With the practice of this mantra, you can remain alert in the event of both pleasure and pain and stop yourself from getting engrossed in them. Then, you can establish yourself in the supreme bliss of equanimity.

Pair of opposites such as pleasure and pain, honor and insult, joy and sorrow affect the body. They will come and go in greater or lesser degrees so long as the body exists. Do not be overwhelmed by them. You are the absolute Self, imperishable Atman while pleasures and pains are fleeting. How can they ever affect you? They have no existence of their own. In fact, they appear on the ground of your existence. You are distinct from them. Hence witness them, withstand them, and let them pass away. Be ever blissful and peaceful.

There is no object that brings pleasure or pain. They are creations of your mind, your thoughts and feelings. With the help of these thoughts, be absorbed in your own eternal Being, the Truth absolute and be always peaceful.
You are the Supreme bliss, Brahman personified. It is your Self that dwells in all. The happiness that appears in the world is in fact just a glimpse of  Self-Bliss. It is your inner bliss but because of your ignorance, you think it is obtained from external objects of sense pleasures. Just as the sun's reflection in water is not the real sun but is merely an illusory appearance thereof, so also is the pleasure experienced through sense-enjoyments- it is not real bliss. It is illusion, not real.


Blessed Be...!

The Upnishads And Human Life

The Upanishads dignify human life as the greatest boon of the Almighty. As described here by the elevated sages or the rishis, every soul in the subtle body, even the angels eagerly await being born as humans. No non-human life-form (yoni) can ever attain the ultimate knowledge or the Brahmgyana; it is only in the human life that one gets this exceptional chance. That is why these vedic scriptures repeatedly stress upon us to make the best use of this unique opportunity and give us clear guidelines to attain the supreme goal of life. They show us the path of comprehensive and ever-elevating progress, eminence and joy. Indeed the quest of the jiva  (individual self) for consciousness-evolution gets a chance to be fulfilled in human-form alone by sincerely and single-mindedly following the teachings of the Upanishads.
The Upanishads reveal that a human being is potentially endowed with the faculties of discerning intelligence, wisdom, decision-making and creative talents which provide him the freedom  of action (karma) and offer him the capability of becoming the architect of his own destiny. Other forms of life are referred in the Upanishads as "bhoga yonis". In these yonis, the creature simply bears the good or bad fruits according to the absolute law of karmas (i.e., as per the accumulated rewards and/or penalties associated with the virtuous and/or sinful actions it performed whenever it was born as a human being in some earlier birth). The Upanishads define the other yonis as – "Jayaswa Mriyaswa", which means "take birth and die as per the destiny". Only the human form is referred here as "bhoga as well as karma yoni", with emphasis on the latter in terms of creating one’s destiny by the freedom  of action. The Upanishads remind us of this fact again and again and enjoin– "Manurbhav" (Awaken! Be a human!).

Being born in the gross form as a human being is easy, rather a natural outcome of our destined life form as per the stock of our karmas in the specific segments of the lifecycle of our individual self. But, living up to its dignity by inculcating humanity and transacting righteous actions is far more difficult and challenging. It requires continuous conscious refinement, zeal and sincere endeavors towards overcoming our own mental vices and debasing desires and facing the illusions, attractions and threats of external circumstances – adhering to the righteous constraints of a duty-bound life as a social being. The teachings of Upanishads are there to guide, protect and safely take us along the illumined path of consciousness-evolution.
The Upanishads describe the human body as "devapuri" and "brahmpuri" (Abode of God) which implies that divinity indwells this life-form. A human being needs to recognize this fact and endeavor to attain the ultimate fulfillment of the soul by conscious union with the Supreme Self.


Blessed Be...!

The Holy Vedas - Rig Veda, Yajur Veda, Sama Veda, Atharva Veda

" Veda " means wisdom, knowledge or vision, and it manifests the language of the gods in human speech. The Vedas constitute the sublime knowledge revealed to our great ancestors while they were doing their penance. It is not an acquired knowledge. It is the sacred knowledge revealed to them in their meditation by the Supreme Divinity. The ancient sages, while doing their 'tapasya' and 'sadhna', heard the divine truths. Whatever was 'heard' or 'revealed' to the great sages was presented in the Vedas and the Upnishads.

The Vedas contain the mantras. These mantras have different specific purposes. Some of them are hymns addressed to the deities. Some of them are for ceremonial purposes or for the rites and rituals. Some deal with the social life. There are references to the sciences and mathematics also. Discussions on the topics of chemistry, astronomy, botany, zoology, physiology, medical therapeutics and bio-sciences are also found in the Vedas.
The Vedas reflect all the aspects of existence. They shed light on the Srishti ( the creation ), the Brahman, the atman, the life and all the related issues of spiritualism.

Blessed Be...!

The Spiritual India

We started ‘The Spiritual India’ to spread the message of  the great and thousands of years old spiritualism of India. We wish to enlighten devotees with the teachings of the Vedas, the Upnishads, the Gita and various other great epics of divine wisdom. We want to set up an ashram at Rishikesh where sessions in Spiritualism and Yoga will be held to benefit the devotees. We will also hold classes of Vedic education for children at our ashram. We aim to promote Yoga by opening Yoga Centers at various places, and helping more and more people to take it up for a healthy mind and body.

We also want to preserve the spiritual and cultural saga of India by providing assistance to restore temples and buildings of great spiritual and architectural value, which were destroyed due to unfortunate acts of neglect and aggression.
We want eternal love and peace to prevail all over the world.

We appeal to people the world over, who love Indian Spiritualism, to come forward and join us, and help us in our endeavors.

Eternal Love and Blessings,

The Spiritual India



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