Gateway to Heaven

When I was exploring the ShriRangam temple at Trichy during my trip, I found a strange door in the temple complex. Then I came to know about its spiritual importance. This door is called “Vaikunth Dwaar”. The word “Vaikunth” means the abode of Lord Vishnu and “Dwaar” means the “gate”. This door is opened only once a year. This mega event happen on the 11^th tithi(date) of hindu caalender in the month of Maargshish. It is believe that one who passes through this divine gate on this day,will attain salvation.This great event has a special significane in 3 temples-Shrirangam,Bhadrachalam and Tirupati. Fasting obsereved on this day is considered as so auspicious that it is believe that one who keep fast on this day will accrue all the punyas equivalent to remaining 23 ekadashi. Reciting Vishnu-sahastranama is best mantra on this day.

Ashta-Vinayaka

In Maharashtra state there is a pilgrimage known as “Ashta-Vinayaka” which is considered as very sacred. It is believe that a person who undertake this journey get librated from the problems related to materialistic world.The word “Ashta” means "eight" and the word “ Vinayaka” is another name of lord Ganesh. This spiritual journey involves the journey to 8 temples of lord Ganesha that are spread around the radius of 120 km around Pune. The importance of these temples confirms from the fact that the idols of the Lord Ganesha are not man made.The idols are “Swayambhu” which means they appear on its own(self-begotten).All the idols appeared at different period of time. It is very auspicious to perform the yaatra in a specific order in accordance with the chronological order of appearance of idols.It is believe that after completion of the journey of 8 temples , one must visit the first temple of Moreshwar(the starting point) again which signifies the completion of journey.
Following is the order in which the journey should be performed.
1. The Moreshwar Temple, Moregaon
2. The Siddhivinayaka Temple, Siddhatek
3. The Balleshwar Temple, Pali
4. The Varadavinayaka Temple, Maha
5. The Chintamani Temple, Theur
6. The Girijatmaj Temple, Lenyandri
7. The Vighnahar Temple, Ozar
8. The Mahaganpati Temple, Rajnangaon

The Legend of Kumbh Mela

“Kumb mela “ is a holy fair which is one of the greatest festival in the life of a hindu.There is a legend behind the occurance of this fair. As per legend once Gods and demons churned the cosmic ocean for the search of amrit(the divine nectar for immortality). At the end of churning, the pot (kumbh,in hindi) of amrit emerges from the ocean. At that moment the fight broke between Gods and demons for the possession of the pot. The battle for the possession of pot continued for 12 days which are equivalent to 12 human years. During that battle few drops of amrit fell on 4 places- Prayag, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik. During the war, 3 planets Sun,Moon and Jupiter played significant role in protecting the pot from breaking. To commemorate this holy event Kumbh Mela is celebrated in every twelve years at the four sacred places where the drops from Kumbh were fallen. Since then it is believe that according to particular planetary position of Sun,Jupiter and moon respectively these places acquires special divine powers and bathing in these pilgrimage sites in the sacred river helps to ward off the sins. This fair,kumbh mela occurs four times every twelve years and rotates among four locations: Prayag, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik. Each twelve-year cycle includes one Maha Kumbh Mela(GreatKumbhMela).
Following are the planetary combinations for each site for Kumbh festial.
1) At Prayag, the Maha Kumbh Mela is held in the month of Magha (January/February in the Gregorian calendar). when Jupiter is in Taurus and both the Sun and Moon are in Capricorn.
2)At Haridwar, the Kumbh Mela is held in the months of Phalgun and Chaitra, when the Sun passes to Aries, the Moon is in Sagittarius and Jupiter is in Aquarius.
3)In Ujjain, it is held in the month of Vaishakha, the Sun and Moon are in Aries and Jupiter is in Leo.
4) At Nasik, the Kumbh Mela takes place in the month of Shravana, when the Sun and Moon are in Cancer and Jupiter is in Scorpio.It takes nearly one year for Jupiter to transit through one zodiac sign.Thus,for each site Kumbh Mela comes in every 12 years.

The Praan Shakti

Everyone knows how air is important for life. The air is known as “Vaayu” in hindi. The function of air is not restricted to inhalation or exhalation which is called breathing. In broader concept, our body is governed by the vital energy called “Praan” which is present in our body in different forms of air or vaayu. It is of 5 forms-
1) Praan Vayu(Present between throat and heart. It controls inhalation)
2) Upana Vayu(Present in pelvis.It controls exhalation.)
3) Saman Vayu(Present in naval region.It helps in digestion.)
4) Udana Vayu(Present between thraot and head.It control speech and anxiety)
5) Vyana Vayu(Present in whole body.It controls nerves, veins, muscles and joints). It is often called as aura.

There are other 5 subdivsion of the vaayu (air) in our body as follows
a)Naag-prana (It is responsible for sneezing)
b)Kurma-prana(it causes shivering)
c)Krikar-prana (It causes hunger)
d)Devdat- prana(It brings sleep)
e)Dhanjay- prana (It helps in preserving the body).

Parikrama

In a famous story Lord Ganesha performed Parikrama around his parents which was considered equivalent to the journey around the universe. Parikrama means circumambulation or moving around in a circle. It is also known as Pradaskshina.The word “Pradakshina” means “towards right”. In religious context this journey is performed around temple,holy tree,holy hill and river. This is done in a clockwise direction. Only during inauspicious occasion like death ceremony,parikrama is performed anticlockwise .The circular journey around the deity can be understood with an example that in geometry we need a center to draw a circle and from the centre all the points on the circle are equidistant. It indicates we are equally close to God. Symbolically this ritual indicate touching the feet of deity. In another variation, at the end of the puja , it is a custom to do parikrama around ourselves three times. This is called “ Atma Pradakshinam”. This is to invoke the god in itself and to express the gratitude to HIM. We all are the part(ansh) of supreme soul. Generally odd number of parikrama is considerd auspicious. For Example , 1 parikrama around Lord Ganesha, Half parikrama around Shivlingam,3 parikrama around Lord Vishnu, 5 parikrama around Lord Kaartikay and 7 parikrama around peepal tree is considered auspicious. Many classics considered 21,27 or 108 numbers as auspicious to perform parkirama. While performing parikrama, an invisible link is established between a person and deity. The mantras pronounced during the circumambulation holds the key of transferring the energies from the god to a person. Always make sure that parikrama should be performed slowly while chanting mantras.

The Mystic Temple

Tamilnadu is the only state in India, where there is a special temple for each of the nava-grehs. These places are located in Thanjore district making a sacred place called Nav-greh sthalam. Amongst them , there is a place called “Vaitheeswaran Koil” which is dedicated to Lord Mars(Mangal). It is 24 km from Chidambaram. The term Vaitheeswaran means ‘Lord Doctor’ in Tamil. The presiding deity is Sri Vaidyanathaswamy, who is believed to be healer of all diseases. Legend has it that once Mangal(The mars) was suffering from leprosy due to curse and was cured by Lord Vaidhyanathaswamy. It is very auspicious to have a bath in holy tank in the temple to get rid off ill effects of Mangal and cure of all diseases. Since Mangal is associated with red colour, so as an offerings, it is custom to offer red flowers along with Toor dal(a kind of pulse). Intrestingly, it is custom to offer pepper and salt with jaggery to get rid from the diseases. Also , as per legend it is here,Lord Rama performed the last rites of the bird, Jatayu who died while saving Sita from the Raavan. Here the consort of lord Vaidyanathaswamy is “Thaiyalnaayaki”. She is seen having the "Sanjeevi Thailam", the medicinal oil for all illness. Other important deities of this temple are Lord Murugan, who is believed to have acquired trident here. The God of ayurved medicines, Lord Dhanvantri is worshipped here in this temple which make this temple unique. Even our divine 7 sages ,sapta-rishis also worshipped here. As a prasaad, ashes and sandalwood paste is given to the worshippers. It is believe that it contains special divine powers to cure many diseases.

Me performing the rituals in the holy tank

The Mystic Tank

The Corridor of Faith
The Abode of Lord Mangal

रामेश्वरम- एक दुर्लभ संगम

जब श्री राम लंका मैं विजय प्राप्त कर अयोध्या लौट रहे थे , तब उन्होंने गंध्मान पर्वत पर कुछ समय बिताया था ।परन्तु उन का मन काफी विचलित था । कारण स्पष्ट था । उन्हें ब्रह्म हत्या का दोष था क्यों कि रावन एक ब्रह्मिण थाजिस का वध उन्हों ने किया था। अपने गुरुजनों से आज्ञा प्राप्त कर के श्री राम ने भगवान् शिव कि आराधना करनेका निर्णय किया । पूजा का एक विशेष मुहूर्त निकाला गया। श्री राम ने हनुमान जी को शिवलिंग लाने को कहा ।हनुमानजी बिना समय गवाए काशी की और चल पड़े । काफी समय बीत जाने के बाद जब हनुमान जी नही लौटेतब श्री राम चिंतित हो गए क्योंकि मुहूर्त का समय निकट था। तभी सीताजी ने अपने हाथ से एक शिवलिंग कानिर्माण किया गया और उस मैं प्राण प्रतिष्ठा की। इस शिवलिंग को रामलिंगम कहते हैं . इस प्रकार उस शुभ मुहूर्तमैं पूजा संपन्न हुई। कुछ देर बाद जब हनुमान जी शिवलिंग ले कर लौटे तो वोह बहुत निराश हुए की उन् का प्रयासविफल हुआ क्योंकि पूजा संपन्न हो चुकी थी । श्री राम जी हनुमान जी कि निराशा तुंरत भांप गए। उन् कि आज्ञा सेदूसरा शिवलिंग भी वहीँ स्थापित किया गया जिस का नाम विश्वलिंगम रखा गया और कहा कि आज के बाद सबसेपहले विश्वलिंगम , lकि पूजा होगी और उस के बाद रामलिंगम की । आज तक यह प्रथा जारी है । इस मन्दिर कीएक विशेषता और है कि यहाँ पर २२ तीर्थो का अनोखा संगम है। मन्दिर मैं प्रवेश से पहले समुद्र मैं स्नान करनाआवश्यक है जिसे "अग्नि तीरथ" कहते हैं । इस के पश्चात् मन्दिर मैं २२ कुएं हैं जिन मैं अलग अलग तीर्थो कापवित्र जल विद्यमान है। सभी कुओं मैं स्नान करने के पश्चात् ही इश्वर के दर्शन होते हैं। ऐसी अनोखी और पवित्रप्रथा संसार मैं किसी भी मन्दिर में नहीं है। निम्नलिखित २२ पवित्र तीर्थ मन्दिर मैं स्थित हैं--
1)लक्ष्मी तीर्थ

2)चक्र तीर्थ

3)शिव तीर्थ

4)शंख तीर्थ

5)यमुना तीर्थ

6)गंगा तीर्थ

7)गया तीर्थ

8)कोटि तीर्थ

9)सध्यम्रित तीर्थ

10 सर्व तीर्थ

11 चंद्र तीरथ

12) सूर्य तीर्थ

१३ब्रह्महत्यविमोचन

१४माधव तीर्थ

१५नल तीर्थ

१६ नील तीरथ

१७ गव्य

१८ गवाक्षा तीरथ

१९गंध्मान तीर्थ

२०सवित्रि तीर्थ

21 सरस्वती तीरथ

२२ गायत्री तीरथ

"अग्नि-तीर्थ"- जहाँ पर मैंने अपने पूर्वजो के लिए तर्पण किया

२२ तीर्थो का संपूर्ण स्नान-एक अद्वित्य अनुभव

The Curse of Sita

After the death of King Dashrath, Lord Rama decided to perform the shraadh ceremony because it was necessary to gave solace to the departed soul. Lord Rama along with Sita and Lakshman went to Gaya(a place in Bihar). On reaching there Lord Rama and Lakshman went in search for material required to perform the ceremony. Sita was waiting at the bank of Phalgu river. After waiting for long time she noticed that the soul of King Dashrath appeared and asked for the pinda(offering given to souls).As the time was running out , Sita herself decided to perform the ceremony with all the possible means. After the ceremony the soul of King Dashrath blessed her and departed. There were 5 witnesses to this ceremony- the Phalgu river,the Akshay vatam(a sacred tree), a cow ,the Brahmin and the fire. Later when the Lord Rama returned, Sita told the whole incident. But Lord Rama didn’t believe. Then Sita asked the 5 witnesses. Among the 5 only Akshay vatam told the truth. This upset Sita and she cursed the other 4. She cursed Phalgu river that it would be dried on the top. She cursed cow that it would no longer be worshipped from the front and only its backside would be considered as auspicious. She cursed fire that whatever came in contact with it would be destroyed. Then she cursed Brahmins that they would never be satisfied. Lastly She blessed Akshay vatam that it would remain evergreen. Even today the Phalgu river looses its water when it enters Gaya, though the water is still present below the river bed

एक अनुभव

ईश्वर के संकेत सचमुच विचित्र हैं । एक रात मुझे सपने में ईश्वर नटराज रूप में दिखे तभी से मेरे मन में एक अजीबजिज्ञासा जागृत हुई । खोज करने पर पता चला कि चिदम्बरम नामक स्थान में ईश्वर नटराज रूप में विद्यमान हैं . धीरे धीरे और खोज करने पर पता चला कि दक्षिण भारत में विभिन्न स्थानों में पञ्च-तत्त्व के रूप में भगवान् निवास करते हैं यह तत्त्व हैं आकाश रूप,वायु रूप,जल रूप,अग्नि रूप और पृथ्वी रूप। चिदम्बरम में नटराज रूप , ईश्वर के आकाश तत्व का ही रूप है . इस बात ने मुझे इतना प्रभावित किया कि मैंने निश्चय किया कि में एक दिनचिदम्बरम जरूर जाऊँगा । एक दिन सौभाग्य से मुझे मौका मिला एक अद्भुत तीरथ यात्रा करने का मौका मिला ।बड़ी बाधाओ को पार करने के बाद मैं चिदम्बरम पहुंचा । मंदिर के मुख्या द्वार पर पहुँच कर मेरे मन में बड़ी हलचलहुई. एक अजीब से घबराहट थी । ऐसा लग रहा था कि कोई यहाँ मेरा इंतज़ार कर रहा है। हम ने पूर्वी द्वार से मंदिरमैं प्रवेश किया । निगाहे कुछ ढूँढ रही थी । शायद अपनी सपने को साकार करने का समय आ गया था। कदमअचानक रूक गए आखों के ठीक सामने भगवान् नटराज मूर्ती रूप मैं विराजमान थे। आरती का समय था औरमूर्ती पूर्ण रूप में थी । सब कुछ अविश्वस्निये लग रहा था। तभी मैं गाइड के पास गया और कहा कि मैं चिदम्बरमरहस्यम देखना चाहता हूँ । वो हैरान हो गया कि मुझे कैसे पता है चिदम्बरम रहस्यम के बारे में ? मैं हिम्मत कर केमंदिर के गर्भ गृह तक गया और पंडितजी से रहस्यम के बारे में पुछा। पंडितजी ने बड़ी विचित्र मुस्कराहट के साथमुझे देखा और आगे आने को कहा और वेह बोले कि सामने वाली दीवार के बीच बने छेक में से देखो. पूरा अन्धकारथा । उन्हों ने एक काला पर्दा उठाया और दीपक के लौ से उसे प्रकाशित किया परन्तु घबराहट कि वजह से मुझे कुछस्पष्ट नहीं दिखाई दिया. मैं निराश हो गया । मैंने फिर से उनसे निवेदन किया कि मुझे दर्शन करा दें उन्हों ने बड़ीआशावादी नज़रों से मुझे देखा। उन्हों ने फिर से वही प्रक्रिया दोहराई । इस बार मैं सतर्क था । पर्दा उठते ही ईश्वरनिराकार रूप में स्पष्ट महसूस हो रहे थे । इतनी अंधेरे में भी उन पर स्वर्ण के बिलव पत्र अत्यंत शोभ्यमान प्रतीतहो रहे थे । पंडितजी ने बताया कि यही शक्ति का मूल स्तोत्र है। मैं बिलकुल स्थिर हो चुका था । ऐसा अनुभव कोबयान करने के लिए कोई भी शब्द किस्सी भी शब्दकोष मैं नहीं है। आज भी मैं उस पल को याद करता हूँ तो आँखोंसे आंसू सहसा बह जाते है और ज़बान भी लड़खडाने लगती है। इस अनुभव को वही समझ पायेगा जो प्रकृति केपञ्च तत्वों को गहरायी से जानता हो।

The Famous Five

It is believe that the life originate from the 5 basic elements called “Panch-tatva”. The word “Panch” means five and the word “Tatva” means element. As per classics these 5 elements created by God in specific order. At first “Aakash(space) tatva” was created, whose main feature is sound. At the second step “Vaayu(air) tatve” was created having touch as its main feature. In third order, “Agni(fire) tatva” was created. At the fourth place “Jal (water) tatva” was created . Lastly “Prithvi(earth) tatva” created. In all the living being these 5 elements are present. As per hindu mythology, the supreme soul is also worshipped as manifestation of these 5 elements. There are 5 temples in south India where Lord is presents in 5 different elements. They are called as Panchbhoot sthalams.
Following are the 5 panchbhhot sthalams
1)The Ekambareshwar Temple(In kanchipuram).Here lord is present in Prithvi tatvam
2)The Srikaalhasti Temple(In Chitoor dist.). Here lord is present in Vaayu Tatvam
3)The Natraj temple (At Chidambram). Here lord is present in Aakash Tatvam
4)The Arunachaleshwar temple(At Tiruannamalai). Here lord is present in Agni Tatvam
5)The Jambukeshwar Temple(At Trichi). Here lord is present in Jal Tatvam
They are mukti giving sacred places. The ambience of each of temple is so divine that one would have unique experience that can not be expressed in words.

The Arunachaleshwar Temple(Lord in Fire Roop) in Tiruannamalai

The Temple of Srikaalhasti (Lord in Vayu Roop)

The Ekambreshwar Temple of Kanchipuram(Lord in Prithvi Roop)

The Jambukeshwar Temple of Trichy

The Natraj Temple(Lord in Aakash Roop)

The Aquatic Navagrehas

As per the concept of Hinduism, we get all the happiness and sufferings in our lives because of our past life karmas. The nava-grehas or the nine planets in our horoscope are the key controller of our destiny. Even Lord Rama was not spared from the effects of navagrehas. Before proceeding for Lanka , Lord Rama needed the help of nature to overcome the powerful enemy, Ravana. The reason behind that was Ravana was himself acquired many divine powers. Once Goddess Durga appeared in the dream of Lord Rama and guided Lord Rama to perform navagreha pooja in order to overcome the adverse effects planets.So after consulting sages, Lord Rama decided to perform special pooja of nava-grehas. He placed nine stones pillars which symbolically represented the 9 planets and do praan-pratishtha(invoking divine powers). Only after performing the pooja Lord Rama proceed towards to Lanka. This confirms the importance of Navagrehas . So every human being on this earth is under the influence of 9 planets. During my teerath-yaatra to Tamil Nadu I got a chance to witness these magical navagrehas, which are still there. These pillars are half submerged in the sea. They are located in a place called Navapaashanam in Devipattinam . It is 14 km North-east of Ramnathpuram in Tamilnadu. This place is considered as very powerful place to perform the tarpan for our ancesters. The unique thing about Devipattinam is that it is the only place in the world where the Navagrahas are located inside the sea.




I performed the pooja in Navapaashanam

The Mauli-a bond of spirituality

At the time of religious ceremony it is a custom that red thread is tied on the wrist. It is tied on the right wrist of a male and on the left wrist of female. This sacred thread is called “ Kalava” or “Mauli”. This is a kind of kawach(shield) for protection against evil-eye. It is tied by the priest or the person who is conducting pooja. At the time of tying, mantras are recited to invoke the spiritual power. Another aspect of its significance is that it is tied at the time of taking “Sankalp”(resolution) at the commencement of pooja. Symbolically it is a reminder of resolution. This thread is a bond between the soul and supreme soul. The logic of tying it on the right wrist of male is that the right side of human body is ruled by Surya-nadi(sun) which is masculine. Similarly the left hand side of human body is ruled by Chandra-nadi(moon) which is feminine. This is the reason why it is tied on the left wrist of female. Thus this thread provides connectivity between human and God

Shubh Navraatris

Navraatri means 9 nights. This is an auspicious period which is celebrated twice in a year i.e. in the month of Chaitra and in the month of Ashwin as per hindu calendar. This period is devoted to ‘Shakti-Pooja”. During the first 3 days of pooja is dedicated to Goddess “Mahakaali”. The next 3 days dedicated to Goddess “Mahalakshmi” and the last 3 days are dedicated to “Goddess Mahasaraswati”. This auspicious period coincides with the change of season. Fasting observe during these days is beneficial from physical aspect as well as spiritual aspect of life. During these 9 days Goddess Durga is worshipped in nine different forms which are as follows
1) Goddess Shailputri
2) Goddess Brahmacharini
3) Goddess Chandra Ghanta
4) Goddess Kushmanda
5) Goddess Skandmata
6) Goddess Katyayni
7) Goddess Kaalraatri
8) Goddess Mahagauri
9) Goddess Sidhidaatri

“Kalash(pot) Sthapna” is very important in the morning of first navratri.A metal pot filled with water and coconut at top of it is placed along with mango leaves(in odd numbers). It is a symbolic representation of Goddess. This process has to be performed strictly according to muhurat. As per ritual one should sow barley grains in a separate pot.After the completion of fast on ashtami tithi, it is important to worship small girl child which is symbolic to Goddess Durga. Recitation of Durga-Saptashati is considered as highly auspicious during navraatri

The Divine 52 Places

As per classics there are 52 shaktipeeth present across India and neighboring countries. It is believe that pujas performed during “Vishesh Kaal” (special period) is considered very auspicious. They are as follows-

1. Goddess Hinglaj located in Pakistan.
2. Goddess Jwalamukhi(in Kangra Himachal Pradesh)
3. Goddess Sugandha (in Bangladesh)
4. Godess Kamakhya (in Assam )
5. Goddess Vrindavana (in UP)
6. Goddess Mahamaya(in Kashmir)
7. Goddess Lalita (in Alahabad ,UP).
8 Goddess Jayanti (in Bangladesh)
9. Goddess Phullara (in W Bengal)
10.Goddess Mahshmardini (in Pakistan)
11.Goddess Avanti (In Ujjain, MP)
12.Goddess Prabhas (Somnath, Gujrat)
13.Goddess Brahmri (Nasik, Maharashtra)
14.Goddess Vishweshwari (AndhraPradesh)
15.Goddess Gandakichandi (in Nepal)
16 Goddess Narayani(Tamil Nadu)
17.Goddess Gayatri(Ajmer, Rajasthan)
18 Goddess Tripurasundri (Tripura)
19 Goddess Mahadevi (Janakpur)
20 Goddess Jai Durga ()
21.Goddess. Trisnota (Jalpaiguri,in West Bengal)
22 Goddess Sarvani (Tamlinadu)
23 Goddess Kalika (In West Bengal)
24 Goddess Savitri (Kurukshetra, Haryana)
25 Goddess Narmada (in MP)
26 Goddess . Kalighat (Kolkotta)
27 Goddess Ratnavali(W Bengal)
28 Goddess VishwaLakshmi (varanasi, UP)
29.Goddess Ambika(Bharatpur, Rajasthan).
30.Goddess Girija( Orissa.)
31 Goddess Shri Sunadari(Andhra Pradesh).
32 Goddess Dakshinayani(In Tibet)
33 Goddess Bhawani(in Bangladesh)
34.Goddess Shivani (Chitrakoot, UP)
35.Goddess Nandini (In Bengal)
36.Goddess Jashoreswari (In Bangladesh)
37 Goddess Devagarbha (W Bengal)
38 Goddess Mangalchandika (W Bengal)
39 Goddess Kapalini(W Bengal)
40 Goddess Kalmadhava (in MP)
41 Goddess Mahashira (In Nepal)
42 Goddess Yogadaya (W Bengal)
43 Goddess Bahula (W Bengal)
44 Goddess Mahalaxmi (Indo-Bangla Border)
45 Goddess Vimla (Orissa)
46.Goddess Aparna (in Bangladesh)
47.Goddess Danteshwari(chattisgarh)
48 Goddess Mahishamardini (W Bengal)
49 Goddess Indrakshi(Srilanka)
50 Goddess Tripurmalini (Punjab)
51.Goddess Jai Durga(Bihar)
52.Goddess Varahi

However the above list varies a little bit according to different classics. But one should never miss an opportunity when you are in a town where a shaktipeeth is situated.

Naaryan Naarayan!

There was a Brahmin whose name was Ajaamil. He was learned man. But due to bad company he get surrounded by bad people all the time. He lost all his divine powers as well as knowledge acquired by him. Now he became an evil person who always engaged in stealing money and spending it on drinking wine. He married to a maid. Later he had a son whose name was “ Naraayan”. The childhood of a boy had a deep impact on Ajaamil. Most of his time was spent on his son. As the time passes Ajaamil fell seriously ill. It was even difficult for him to move an inch from his bed. He could easily felt the approaching death. But the impact of his son on his memory was so deep that kept calling his name all the day. This repeated calls to son started working as a magic because the word “Naarayan” means “Lord Vishnu”. He regain all his lost knowledge. He was remorseful for his sin committed during young age. When “Yam Dut”, the messengers of “God of Death” came to took him to Yamlok, Lord Vishnu himself came to rescue to Ajaamil in divine form. In this way Ajaamil finally reaches the “Baikunth Dhaam”, the abode of Lord Vishnu after the death.

Ashtavakra

There was a Sage named Uddalaka who was very learned. His disciple , Kahoda was his favorite due to his extreme devotion towards Guru. After some time he decided to marry his only daughter Sujata to Kahoda. As the time progress, she became pregnant. Usually she prefer to sit near her father and her husband while teaching. As a result the unborn child acquired all the knowledge . Once upon a time , Kahoda was reciting some mantras committed some errors. At this time , his unborn child began correcting the mistakes of his father from the womb. This was very insulting experience for Kahoda. He cursed his unborn son to be born as deformed. As a result of curse , when the child was born, his body was deformed at 8 points. Due to this deformity he got his name “Ashta-vakra”. The word “Ashta” means “eight” and the “Vakra” means “bend” in hindi.
After some time his father, Kahoda lost his life when he lost a debate contest in the kingdom of King Janak as per the rules of the contest. Now, ashtavakra got all his education from his grandfather. At the very young age , he got a chance to participate the debate contest in the court of king Janak. During the contest he defeated the best scholar, named Bandi(who was the killer of his father in last debate) in the court. Bandi revealed his original identity as the son of Varun, the god of water. He was so impressed by the intelligence of boy that he bring back Kahoda to life. On seeing his son, Kahoda openly admitted that his son is far more intelligent than himself. Ashtavakra was highly advance in the world of spirituality. His teachings are there in a book ‘Ashtavakra gita” which are so touching that It can change the outlook of any person towards life.

The Auspicious Grass

During my recent visit to Haridwar , my ancestors came in my dream. So I decided to perform tarpan ceremony for them. The pandit asked me to get Kusha grass for it. He told me some of the most hidden and secret method of performing tarpan as well as importance of Kusha.
Kusha also known as Durva is a kind of grass which is very important for all the religious ceremonies. Hindu priests always keep the kusha grass in their houses which they use them for purification ceremonies . During pooja, kusha is used for sitting mat(asan). It is believe that this grass originates from the hairs of Lord Vishnu during the churning of ocean (samundra Manthan). As per another legend, once the pot of nector was placed upon Kusha grass which was guarded by Garuda(the divine eagle). At the same the snakes attacked to pot of nector but the eagle snatched the pot. But few drops of nector fell on Kusha grass. The snakes had only one option to lick the drops fallen on kusha grass. But the blades of grass were too sharp that their tongue were divided into 2 parts. Since then it is believe that the snakes possess twin tongues. Kusha is also used to ward off ill effects of many natural calamities. During eclipses Kusha grass is put on all the food articles to prevent them intoxicated. If a person is suffering from the bad effects of Rahu, then Durva grass is used as a remedy. Last rites and rituals of dead body is performed with the help of Kusha grass to provide solace to departing soul. It is believe that goddess Sita manage to protect herself from Ravana with the help of single blade of kusha grass which was energized with the powerful mantras. Medically it is proved that this grass has a lot of medicinal properties. Also praying Lord Ganesha with Durva is considered as highly auspicious(Note- one should not offer it to goddess Durga). TO know the legend behind it click http://hindustories.blogspot.com/2008/03/21-durvas.html

Shyam Varna

Lord Krishna was an avatar(incarnation) of Lord Vishnu. He is also known as “Shyam varna” means dark complexioned. In some versions of classical text he is also described as having dark blue complexion. There are many legends behind this. Once lord Krishna was playing with his friends near the bank of Yamuna river. All of a sudden the ball fell into the river. Lord Krishna jumped into the river to get back the ball. But in the river there was an abode of a poisonous snake Kalia. Fierce battle took place between them. The snake fires all his deadly poison on Lord Krishna. Due to the poison his complexion changed to deep blue. Another aspect is Lord Vishnu resides in ksheer Sagar(cosmic ocean). So that water turns the complexion of the Lord into deep blue. The deep blue colour is a symbol of infinity and depth. The supreme soul can not be viewed with ordinary vision.

Basant Panchmi

Basant Panchami is celebrated on 5th day of lunar calendar in the month of Magh shukal Paksh. “Basant “ means spring season. It marks the beginning of spring season. This day is dedicated to worship of goddess Saraswati. She is the shakti of Lord Brahma , the creator of universe. She is the deity of knowledge. It rules the speech. It is believe that in day consisting of 8 prahar(division of time), she resides on everyone’s speech at least one of the prahar. The word spoken during that period becomes truth. The vehicle of goddess Saraswati is swan. The swan has ability to distinguish water and milk in a mixture. It denotes the wisdom power. The four hands of goddess represent the 4 vedas. She is holding “veena”(a king of instrument) having 7 strings representing 7 chakras of consciousness. People wear yellow color on this day. This color is a symbol of spirituality. Its a ritual to  prepare yellow sweet rice.This day is auspicious for learning. For the students the following mantra works as tonic-
Saraswati Mahabhage Vidye Kamalalochane !
Vishwaroope Vishaalaakshi Vidyam dehi namostute!!

Hope Goddess bless us with the spiritual knowledge which in necessary for all of us before quitting this world!

7 Gateways to Heaven

In Kaliyuga, God has mentioned the seven most sacred placed where one can earn the “Punyas”. These places promise “moksha” to the devotees. These places are also called “Teerath sthal”. They are the gateway to divine kingdom. Some classics even says that during the period of “Chaturmaas” visiting these places brings more auspiciousness to the pilgrims. Following are the seven most sacred pilgrimage centre.
1)Kashi (Banaras)
2)Kanchipuram
3)Mayapuri (Haridwar)
4)Ayodhyapuri
5)Dwarkapuri (Gujrat)
6)Mathurapuri
7)Avantikapuri (Ujjaini)

Legend of Chamundaji

In Satyayuga there were 2 demons Shumbh and Nishumbh who with their extreme devotions manage to acquire extreme powers from Lord Brahma. The terrified gods requested to Jagdamba Devi for the help. She created another female “Kaushiki” out of her body with an assignment of killing the demon brothers. On hearing about the beauty of kaushika devi they send their commander ‘Chanda” and “ Munda”. Fierece battle took place between devi and Chanda and munda. Kaushika devi produced a shakti called “Kalika” from her forehead who ultimately killed the brave commanders Chanda and munda. After that incident kalika shakti known as “Chamunda Devi”. The temple situated at the bank of baan ganga in Kangra district. Across the river, there is a cremation ground , to bring solace to departing soul. A very interesting legend is linked regarding dead bodies brought to cremation ground with the boon granted to chand-mund. As per classical description goddess appeared in two forms
1) Maatrikas
2) 64 yoginis.
This temple is one of the 52 shakti peeth.
Click here for pictures

The Fire Goddess- Jwalajee

The temple of Jwalamukhi is situated in Kangra in Himachal Pradesh. It is surrounded by Shivalik mountain ranges. It is amongst the 52 shakti Peeth. According to legend, it is the place where the tongue of goddess Sati fell. In this temple the goddess is present in the form of tiny flames that is emerging from the cracks of rocks. There are 9 flames burning through ages without any combustible substance. These 9 flames are representatives of 9 forms of goddess namely,
1) Mahakaali
2) Annapurna
3) Chandi
4) Hinglaj
5) Vindya vaasini
6) Mahalakshmi
7) Saraswati
8) Ambika
9) Anjana

In the garbhagreh, the main flame is of goddess Mahakaali(bestower of bhakti and mukti). According to history of the temple once emperor Akbar visited it and tried to extinguish the flame of the temple. All his attempts were failed. He admitted the power of goddess. As an offering he donated a golden chatra at the temple. But he becamae arrogant. All of a sudden that chatra of gold turned into a strange metal which is still a mystery for the modern science. During the entire day 5 kinds of aarti is performed.
1) Mangal Aarti
2) Panchupchar Arti
3) Bhog
4) Sandhya
5) Shayan
The last aarti is performed around 9:30 pm. This is unique in many ways. It is performed in separate room known as “Sejabhawan”, where the bed of goddess is decorated with the beautiful dresses and rarest jewelries.
For some breathtaking pictures of the temple click here

Bitter Enemy

Sage Dronacharya and King Drupad were childhood friends. Once Drupad promised Dronacharya at the Gurukul that he will help him in the hour of need. After the completion of their education they were separated. Dronacharya was too poor to take care of his family properly. One day his son,Ashwathama was hungry. In this difficult time he remind the promise of his friend King Drupad. He went to his kingdom for the help. But Drupad made fun of Dronacharya. It was very insulting experience for a Brahmin. He started teaching Kauravas and Pandavas. As a guru-dakshina, he demanded king Drupad from his students. It was Arjun, who defeated Drupad and brought him to Dronacharya for revenge. But Dronacharya forgive King Drupad as he took his revenge via Arjun. Though Drupad went back to his kingdom, but a strong enemity was born in his mind towards Dronacharya. He arranged special Yagya. Lord Agni blessed Drupad with a boy and girl. The boy was Drishtdyum and the girl was Draupadi. In the Mahabharata war, Drishtadyum played important role in killing of Dronacharya. Later son of Dronacharya, Ashwathama took the revenge of his father’s death.

Ashta Lakshmi

There are 8 roops of godess lakshmi as per hindu mythology. Each form is ruler deity of different form of wealth. They are as follows
1) Adi Lakshmi: This depict the form of Lakshmi that resides with Lord Vishnu in the Vaikuntha
2)Dhanya Lakshmi: The word “Dhanya” means grains. Food is prime importance for each individual.This form of lakshmi bless good food for good health.
3)Dhairya Lakshmi: This form of mother Lakshmi grants the boon of courage and strength.
4)Gaja Lakshmi: During the churning of ocean, this form of godess lakshmi emerges. She came out of the ocean sitting on a full-bloomed lotus and also having lotus flowers in both hands with two elephants by her sides, holding a beautiful vessels filled with milk and pouring it over godess Lakshmi.
5) Santan Lakshmi: In the family life, the children are the greatest asset. Those who worship this particular form of Sri Lakshmi are bestowed with the grace of mother Lakshmi and have wealth in the form of desirable children with good health & long life.
6)Vijay Lakshmi: “Vijay” means victory. Vijay is to get success in all undertakings and all different facets of life.
7)Dhana Lakshmi: “Dhana” means wealth. This form of lakshmi rules all the wealth and riches
8)Vidya Lakshmi: “Vidya” means education. To achieve the ultimate goal of life the inner knowledge is important . It is vidya lakshmi that grant all the knowledge.
So, Ashtalakshmi strota is recited to worship the 8 forms of godess Lakshmi.