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Festival Calendar for February 2011

2011-02-09T14:27:00.001+05:30

Festival Calendar for February 2011

: Temple festivals in Tamilnadu on Maasi Magham

Date	Festival	Offer puja at:
7 February 2011	Tilakunda Chaturthi (Shri Ganesh Jayanti)	Shri Siddhinivayak Temple Mumbai
8 February 2011	Vasanta Panchami (Shri Panchami)	Sri Shringeri Sharadambal Temple
10 February 2011	Ratha Saptami	Sri Suryanar Temple Tamilnadu
11 February 2011	Durgahtami / Bhishmashtami	Sri Chamundeswati Temple Mysore
12 February 2011	Shri Madhwa Navami	Shri Raghavendra Swami Temple, Mantralayam
14 February 2011	Jaya Ekadashi	Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam
15 February 2011	Bhishma Dwadashi	Sri Parthasarathi Swami Temple, Chennai
16 February 2011	Pradosham	Shri Perur Patteeswarar Temple, Coimbatore
18 February 2011	Magha Pournami / Maasi Magham	Shri Ramanathaswami Temple, Rameswaram
21 February 2011	Sankatahara Chaturthi	Shri Mukkuruni Vinayagar Sannidhi, Madurai Temple
28 February 2011	Vijaya Ekadashi	Ulagalanda Perumal Temple, Coimbatore

Durga Saptashati Parayanam and its significance - Video | Parihara.com

2011-01-29T23:38:00.000+05:30

Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu ....

Durga Saptashati chanting performed for one of our clients:

Request Parihara.com's priests to chant Durga Saptashati for the welfare of your family. Click Here

For more videos visit: www.parihara.com

This video is part of Parihara's Spiritual Knowledge Series.
Parihara.com is proud to launch a series of videos as part of its World-wide Spiritual Awareness campaign. The videos contain simple and easy to understand explanations on Homams, Yantras, Mantra chanting & its significance & benefits.

What is a Yantra or an Amulet ? What is it Significance ?

2011-01-29T23:26:00.000+05:30

Spiritual Knowledge Video series - Part 2 | lanuched by Parihara.com

Parihara.com is proud to launch a series of videos as part of its World-wide Spiritual Awareness campaign. The videos contain simple and easy to understand explanations on Homams, Yantras, Mantra chanting & its significance & benefits.

For more videos visit: http://www.parihara.com

About Lord Ayyappa - Sabarimalai Ayyappa Darshan & its significance (Tamil)

2011-01-29T11:16:00.000+05:30

கொங்கு நாட்டில் அருளும் பொன்னம்பல வாசன்!
About Lord Ayyappa - Sabarimalai Darshan & its significance

கார்த்திகையின் முதல் தேதியன்டு , இங்கு வந்து சபரிமலைக்கு மாலை அணிந்து, விரதமிருக்கத் துவங்குவார்கள் 3100 பக்தர்கள் என்கின்றனர் சித்தாபுதூர் ஸ்ரீஐயப்பன் இஷ்வாமி ஆழத்தில் பணிபுரியும் அன்பர்கள்.

சுமார் 60 வருடங்களுக்கு முன்பு , பக்தர்கள் சிலர் ஐயப்ப இஸ்வாமியின் சிறியபடமொன்றை வைத்துப் பூஜித்து வந்தாராம். 68 - ஆம் வருடம் ஸ்ரீ ஐயப்பன், ஸ்ரீவிநாயகர் , ஸ்ரீ பகவதியம்மன், ஸ்ரீ முருகப் பொருமான், ஸ்ரீ சிவபொருமான் ஆகியோருக்கு விக்கிரகங்களைப் பிரதிஷ்டை செய்து, ஆலயம்அமைத்துவழிபடத்துவக்கினர்.69-ஆம்வருடம்,பிரம்மஸ்ரீ பாலக் காட்டில்லத்துபெரியநிலகண்டன் நம்பூதிரி தலைமையில் கும்பாபிஷேகம் நடந்ததாம். கோவைசித்தாபுதூர் உள்ள இந்த ஆலயத்தில் ,கேரளா பாரம்பரிய முறையில் பூஜை நடைபெறுகின்றன. இந்த ஆலயத்தில் மேல்சாந்தியாக 19 வருடன்களாக , ஸ்ரீ சபரிமாலை தேவஸ்தானத்தின் மேல்சாந்தியாக உள்ளார் எனப் பெருமை பொங்கத் தெரிவிக்கின்றனர் கோவைப்பகுதி . ஸ்ரீ சக்கரத்தின் மிது அமர்ந்தபடி சின் முத்திரை திகழ, இஸ் காட்சி தருகிறார் ஸ்ரீ அய்யப்பன் இஷ்வாமி. எனவே, இந்த தலத்துக்கு வந்து ஸ்ரீ ஐயப்பனை கன்னராத் , நவக்கிரக தோஷங்கள் யாவும் நீங்கும் ; சகல ஐஸ்வரியங்களோடு, நீண்ட ஆயுளுடன் ஆரோக்கியமாக வாழலாம் என்கின்றனர் பக்தர்கள். இங்கு, மாதம் ஒருமுறை, ஸ்ரீ சக்கர பூஜை விமரிசையாக நடைபெறுகிறது..

தூய்மையுடனும் பொலிவுடனும் அமைந்துள்ளது ஆலயம். நைவேத்தியப் பிரசாதங்கள் தயாரிப்பதற்கு மடப்பள்ளி , நடைப் பந்தல் , சுத்தமான தேக்கு மரத்தாலான சுற்றம்பலம் , நமஸ்கார மண்டபம் ஆகியவை கேரளா தச்சு வேலைப்பாடுகளுடன் அழகுற அமைக்கப்பட்டுள்ளது. ஸ்ரீ ஐயப்பன் இஸ்வாமியின் சுற்றம்பலத்தில் { மேல் விமான அமைப்பு } சுற்று விளக்குகள் வைக்கப் பட்டுள்ளன.

மாலை வேளையில் , பிரகாசமான ஒளிவீசும் விளக்குகளைக் காணக் கண்கோடி வேண்டும் ! தன்காக் கொடிமரம், தினமும் சுமார் 500 பக்தர்களுக்கு அன்னதானம் {கர்ர்த்திகை துவங்கி விரத காலங்களில் , தினமும் சுமார் 2500 பேருக்கு அன்னதானம் நடைபெறும் } சுதந்திரத் திருநாளில் சமபந்தி போஜனம் என அமைக்கலப்படுகிறது ஆலயம். இஸ்வாமி குடிகொண்டிருக்கும் கருவரையுன் மேற் கூரையை தங்கத்தில் { சுமார் 25 கிலோ } வேய்ந்திருக்கிறது. ஆலய நிர்வாகம் . பிரதோஷம் , ஏகாதசி ,கிருத்திகை, சிவராத்திரி என வருடம் முழுவதும் விழாக்கள் விமர்சையாக நடந்தேறுகிறது. விஜயதசமி நன்னாளில் ,ஆயிரக்கனக்கண் குழந்தைகளுக்கு " எழுத்தறிவித்தல் " எனும் நிகழ்ச்சி சீரும் சிறப்புமாக நடைப் பெரும்கிறது. மணக்க மணக்க சந்தானம்,திவ்வியமான தீர்த்தம், இச்வாமிக்கு அணிவித்த மலர்கள் ஆகியவை பிரசாதமாக வழங்கப்படுகின்றது. ஸ்ரீ ஐயப்பனை மனதாரத் தரிசித்து, பிரசாதங்களைப் பெற்று சென்றால் , நம் வாழ்க்கையையுன் மணக்க செய்வான் ஸ்ரிமநிகண்டன் என்று பூரிக்கின்றனர் கோயம்புத்தூர் மக்கள்.............!

Spiritual Knowledge Video series - Part 1 | lanuched by Parihara.com

2011-01-29T08:03:00.000+05:30

1. Vedic Homam/ Hawan and its Significance

2. Why do we Chant Mantras ? MatraJapa and its Significance

For more info visit: http://www.parihara.com

Sankata Chaturthi Dates 2011

2011-01-27T23:02:00.002+05:30

Sankata Chaturthi Dates 2011

Date	Moon Rise Time	Remarks
22^nd January , 2011 - Saturday	9.04 pm	Sankatahara Chaturti
21^st February , 2011 - Monday	9.52 pm	Sankatahara Chaturti
22^nd March, 2011 - Tuesday	9.41 pm	Angaraka Sankat Chaturthi
21^st April, 2011 - Thursday	10.29 pm	Sankatahara Chaturthi
21^st May , 2011 - Saturday	10.04 pm	Sankatahara Chaturthi
19^th June, 2011 - Wednesday	10.10pm	Sankatahara Chaturti
19^th July, 2011 - Tuesday	9.21 pm	Angaraka Sankat Chaturti
17^th August 2011 – Wednesday	9.04 pm	Sankatahara Chaturti
16^th September 2011 - Friday	8.56pm	Sankat Chaturti
16^th October 2011 - Sunday	8.22 pm	Sankat Chaturti
14^th November 2011 - Monday	8.49pm	Sankatahara Chaturti
14^th December 2011 - Wednesday	9.30pm	Sankatahara Chaturthi

Benefits of Jyotirlinga Darshan

2011-01-19T12:36:00.000+05:30

As per our scriptures, a visit to the 12 Jyotirlinga Shiva temples brings manifold benefits to the devotees. A visit to Lord Somanatha at Saurashtra is said to bestow good luck and happiness. A visit to Shrisaila Mallikarjuna Swami temple in Andhra said to remove poverty and bestow prosperity. Darshan of Mahakaleswar at Ujjain removes fear of death and sins. The Jyotirlinga at Omkareswar secures one's future life here and beyond death. Vaidyanatha at Parali cures chronic diseases. Lord Bhimeshwara destroys enemies and grants victory over enemies and also removes fear of untimely death (Akaala Mrityu). If one worships Lord Rameswara at Rameswaram with Ganges water from Kasi, one attains immense merit. Lord Nageshwara at Daruka vana destroys all great sins and releases us from their curse. Lord Vishwanatha at Kasi liberates one from all bonds of past karma. Lord Trayambakeswar at Nashik fulfills all desires and bestows fame, removes unjust blame or bad reputation caused by past karma. Lord Kedarnath grants Moksha. Lord Grishneswar bestows pleasures of life here and beyond.

జపం ఏయే ప్రదేశాల్లో చేయాలి?

2011-01-15T16:09:00.003+05:30

ఇంట్లోనే జపం ఎంత చేస్తే అంత ఫలితము ఉంటుంది. నదీ పరిసర ప్రాంతాల్లో జపం చేస్తే రెట్టింపు ఫలితం వస్తుంది. గోశాలలో జపం చేస్తే వందరెట్లు, యాగశాలలో జపం చేస్తే అంతకు మించి ఫలితం వస్తుంది.
పుణ్య ప్రదేశాలలో, దేవతా సన్నిధిలోనూ, జపం చేస్తే 10 వేల రెట్లు ఫలితం వస్తుంది. శివాలయంలోగానీ, శివసానిధ్యంలో గానీ, జపం చేస్తే మహోన్నతమైన ఫలితం వస్తుంది. పులితోలు మీద కూర్చుని జపం చేస్తే మోక్షం కలుగుతుంది.
అలాగే వెదురు చాపపై కూర్చుని జపం చేస్తే దరిద్రం ఆవహిస్తుంది. రాయిమీద కూర్చుని జపం చేస్తే రోగాలు వస్తాయి. కటిక నేల మీద కూర్చుని జపం చేస్తే దుఃఖము సంభవిస్తుంది. కోయ్యపీట మీద కూర్చుని జపం చేస్తే దారిద్ర్యం కలుగుతుంది. గడ్డి మీద కూర్చుని జపం చేస్తే కీర్తి నాశనము అవుతుంది.

Remedies for the nine planets based on Vedic Astrology

2011-01-10T10:42:00.003+05:30

Remedies for the nine planets based on Vedic Astrology

This booklet provides simple and easy to perform remedies for some of the most commonly known problems of everyday life based on texts of vedic astrology, dharma shastras and other spiritual sources.

Remedies for the nine Planets:

1. Aditya (Sun): People whose horoscope indicates any dosham (defect) related to the planet sun can benefit immensely by performing the following pariharams:

a. Offer a puja at Suryanar Temple, Kumbhakonam (Navagraha Sthalam, TN) on every Sunday: http://www.parihara.com/suryasthalam.html

b. Chant Aditya Hridaya Stotram everyday or at least on Sundays. Or request a priest to perform Aditya Hridaya parayanam (according to your capacity – 9 times, 12 times, 51 times, 108 times etc.): http://www.parihara.com/health-mantra-japa-1.html

c. Donate Wheat on a Sunday to the poor.

2. Chandra (Moon): The Moon is the source of the mind, according to vedic astrology. Those who suffer from a weak or debilitated moon in the horoscope and a weak mind should perform the following remedies:

a. Offer a puja at Kailasanathar Temple, Thingalur (Chandra Navagraha Sthalam, TN) : http://www.parihara.com/chandrasthalam.html

b. Chant Lalita Sahasrnama Stotram on every Full Moon day. Offer puja to the Goddess considering her to be the presiding deity for the moon:
http://www.parihara.com/sri-lalitha-sahasranama.html

c. Donate Rice or Milk on a Monday

3. Angaraka or Kuja (Mars): People who suffer from Manglik Dosh or Kuja Dosham must perform the following remedies:

a. Offer worship at Vaideeswaran Temple, Sirkazhi(TN), every Tuesday http://www.parihara.com/vaideeswaran-pooja.html

b. Wear a Kuja Dosha Nivarana Yantra: http://www.parihara.com/dosha-nivarana-yantra.html

c. Offer worship at Murugan temples on Tuesdays: http://www.parihara.com/aadi-krithigai.html

d. Donate Masoor Dal ( red lentils) on Tuesday.

4. Budha (Mercury): Remedies for a weak mercury:

a. Offer worship at Budha Navagraha Temple, Thiruvenkadu (TN), every Wednesday http://www.parihara.com/budha-sthalam.html

b. Chant Vishnu Sahasranamam every Wednesday: http://www.parihara.com/vishnusahasranamam.html

c. Donate a green cloth on Wednesday

5. Guru or Brihaspati (Jupiter): Jupiter is one of the most important planets in Vedic astrology. A weak Jupiter should be definitely remedied:

a. Offer worship at Alangudi Dakshinamurthy Temple or Guruvayur Sri Krishna temple on every Thursday: http://www.parihara.com/gurupeyarchi2010.html

b. Offer worship at temples of holy Gurus like Shri Dattatreya, Raghavendra Swami, Shirdi Sai Baba etc.

c. Donate a yellow cloth or turmeric on Thursdays.

6. Sukra (Venus): For Shukra or Venus related problems and during the dasa or antardasa of Venus:

a. Offer worship at Ranaganathaswami Temple at Srirangam or at Agneeswarar Temple (Sukra sthalam): http://www.parihara.com/sukrasthalam.html

b. Perform Sri Sookta Homam: http://www.parihara.com/sri-sookta-homam.html

7. Shani (Saturn): Remedies for problems due to Saturn during Sade Sathi (7½ yr Saturn transit) etc:

a. Offer worship at Thirunallar Saneeswarar Temple every Saturday: http://www.parihara.com/sani-peyarchi-2009.html

b. Offer worship to Lord Hanuman and chant Hanuman Chalisa on Saturdays: http://www.parihara.com/namakkal-hanuman.html

c. Donate Black Til (Sesame seeds) on Saturday.

8. Rahu: For Rahu related problems and during the dasa or antardasa of Rahu:

a. Offer worship at Rahu temples or where Kalasarpa dosha nivarana puja is done like Srikalahasti, Trayambakeswar, Thirunageswaram etc. http://www.parihara.com/rahu-ketu-peyarchi.html

b. Recite the first chapter of Durga Saptashati

c. Donate Coconut on Saturdays.

9. Ketu: For Ketu related problems and during the dasa or antardasa of Ketu:

a. Offer worship at Ganesha temples on Thursdays: http://www.parihara.com/siddhivinayak.html

b. Donate black mustard seeds on Thursday.

జ్యోతిర్లింగ దర్శన ఫలం

2011-01-03T11:56:00.006+05:30

సౌరాష్ట్ర సోమనాథుడ్ని దర్శించిన భోగభాగ్యాలు కలుగుతాయి. శ్రీశైల మల్లికార్జుడ్ని సేవించిన సర్వదరిద్రాలు సమిసిపోతాయి. ఉజ్జయిని మహాకాలుడ్ని కొలిచిన సర్వ భయ పాపాలు హరించుకుపోతాయి. ఓంకారేశ్వరము అమరల్లింగేశ్వరుడు, ఇహపరాలు, సౌఖ్యాన్నిస్తాడు. పరళి వైద్యనాధ లింగాన్ని సేవించిన అనేక దీర్ఘవ్యాథులు నయమవుతాయి. భీమేశ్వరము భీమేశ్వరలింగాన్ని దర్శించిన శత్రుజయం కలిగి అకాల మృత్యు భయాలు తొలగి పోతాయి. రామేశ్వరము రామేశ్వరలింగాన్ని దర్శించి, కాశీలో గంగ జలాన్ని అభిషేకించిన, మహోన్నతమైన పుణ్యఫలం కలిగి పరమ పదాన్ని చేరుతారు. ద్వారక నాగేశ్వరుడ్ని దర్శించిన మహపాతకాలూ, ఉపపాతకాలూ నశిస్తాయి. కాశీ, విశ్వేశ్వర లింగాన్ని సేవించిన సమస్త కర్మబంథాల నుంచి విముక్తి. నాసిక్ త్రయంబకేశ్వర స్వామిని కొలిచిన కోరికలు తీరుతాయి. అపవాదులు పోతాయి. హిమాలయ కేదారేశ్వర లింగాన్ని దర్శించిన వారు ముక్తిని పొందుతారు. వీరులు ఘ్రుష్ణేశ్వర లింగాన్ని దర్శించిన ఇహపర భోగాలను అందిస్తుంది.

గరుడ పురాణo ఇంట్లో చదవవచ్చా? చదవకుడదా?

2010-12-31T13:47:00.004+05:30

వ్యాస మహర్షి రచించిన 18 పురాణాలలో ఒకటి ఈ గరుడ పురాణము. నరకం గురించి, పాపాత్ముల శిక్షలను గురించి గరుత్మంతుడు అడిగిన ప్రశ్నలకు శ్రీ మహావిష్ణువు చెప్పిన సమాధానాలు ఈ గరుడ పురాణంలో ఉన్నాయి . దీనిలో ప్రేతకల్పము ఉండటంవలన ఇంట్లో చదవవచ్చా చదవకూడదా అన్న సందేహం చాలా మందిలో ఉంది. ఈ పురాణం వ్యాస విరచితం. అన్ని పురణాల్లాగానే దీనిని ఇంట్లో ఉంచుకోవచ్చు. ఎవరికైనా ఈ పురాణం ఇవ్వాలంటే హంస ప్రతిమతో కానుకగా ఇవ్వాలి.

Benefits of chanting Aditya Hridayam

2010-12-30T13:13:00.004+05:30

The Aditya Hridayama is a sacred hymn taught by Rishi Agastya to Lord Rama before the final battle with Ravana. It is said that Rama was feeling exhausted by the strain of the prolonged battle whereas Ravana was as energetic as ever, thanks to the pot of nectar hidden in his belly. Lord Agastya tells Rama to chant the hymn while meditating on the heart of the Sun to regain his sagging spirit. Lord Rama gains victory over Ravana in the battle that ensued.

The benefits of chanting the Aditya Hridayam are: victory over external enemies (foes) and internal enemies (weaknesses such as lust, anger, jealousy etc.), long life and good health, destruction of sins, dissolution of worries and anxeity, long lasting prosperity and auspicious qualities.

Request our priests to perform the parayanam of Aditya Hridayam for you.

ఆదిత్య హృదయం ఫలశ్రుతి ఏమి?

2010-12-30T10:55:00.003+05:30

ఆదిత్య హృదయం రామ రావణ యుద్ధ సమయంలో అగస్త్య మహర్షి రామునకు ఉపదేశించాడు .
దైవతస్చ సమాగమ్య ద్రస్తుమభ్యాగతోరణం
ఉపగమ్యాధ్బ్రైవీద్రామ మగస్త్యో భాగావానృషి:
అనే శ్లోకం పై విషయాన్నే తెలుపుతున్నది.
ఆదిత్య హృదయం పుణ్యం - సర్వశత్రు వినాశనం
జయావహం జపేన్నిత్యమ్ - అక్షయ్యం పరమం శుభం
సర్వ మంగళ మాంగల్యం - సర్వపాప ప్రణాశనం
చింతాశోకప్రవమనం - ఆయుర్వర్ధనముత్తమమ్
ఆదిత్య హృదయం పుణ్యప్రదం, కామక్రోధాది అంతశ్శత్రువులను బహిశ్శత్రువులను నాశనం చేస్తుంది. ప్రతినిత్యం జపిస్తే విజయం లభిస్తుంది. అక్షయత్వాన్ని కల్పిస్తుంది. శ్రేష్ఠమైన శుభాలనిస్తుంది. పాపము లన్న్నింటినీ నాశనం చేస్తుంది. చింతలు దుఃఖఃములనుండి ఉపశమనం కల్పిస్తుంది. ఆయువును పెంపొందిస్తుంది. ఈ విధంగా ఎన్నో ఫలములు చెప్పబడ్డాయి .

Exceptions to Kuja Dosham or Manglik Dosh

2010-12-19T19:25:00.000+05:30

Many happy lives have been ruined by the erroneous analysis of horoscope compatibility done by half-baked astrologers who are not well versed in the shastras but claim to be experts in astrology. Kuja Dosham or Manglik dosh is one such altar on which many marriages have been sacrificed. As soon as the parents see that Mars is housed in the 2nd, 4th, 7th, 8th or 12th houses of the horoscope of the groom or the bride, they cry 'Kuja Dosham' and reject the alliance without considering any other aspects. This foolish belief has become particularly rigid in South India.

Many people are not aware that the astrological scriptures have laid down many exceptions to the rules they have defined. Given below are some important exceptions to Kuja Dosham or Manglik Dosh for the benefit of the lay readers:

1. What is important during matching horoscopes is to ensure that there are equal doshas in the bride and groom's charts. So, if both the boy and the girl have Mars housed in the 7th, then the charts can be said to match.

2. It is only in Kerala astrology that Kuja dosham or Manglik dosh has been given a lot of weightage. Many other Rishis differ on this point when it comes to how much importance should be given to Manglik Dosh. If the horoscope is otherwise strong and specially if the girl's horoscope has sufficient Guru Bala (Jupiter's grace), then Kuja dosham need not be given too much importance.

3. Scriptures also declare that for people born in Mesha (Aries), Karkataka (Cancer), Leo (Simha), Vrischika (Scorpio), Dhanus (Sagittarius) and Meena (Pisces) - Kuja Dosham does NOT apply.

4. If the 7th house happens to be Karkataka (Cancer), Dhanus (Sagittarius)or Meena (Pisces), then Kuja in the 7th will be a friendly planet and will NOT do any harm to these natives. So, Kuja dosham does not apply in such cases (irrespective of Janma rashi or lagna).

5. If the 7th house is Thula (Libra) or Vrishabha (Taurus), then Kuja or Mangal in the 7th will only bestow lasting affection and fidelity but will NOT harm the couple.

6. If the 7th house is Kanya (Virgo) or Aquarius (Kumbha), then Kuja in the 7th will bestow prosperity and happiness after marriage.

Parents who are seeking alliances for their children should keep these exceptions in mind and avoid rejecting horoscopes simply on the basis of Kuja Dosham or Manglik Dosh. Other important parameters such as longevity of the bride & groom, strength of Jupiter and Venus, other doshas such as presence of Rahu or Saturn in 4th / 5th / 7th or 12th houses etc also should be considered.

It is always advisable to consult an experienced and knowledgeable astrologer while matching horoscopes and not go on the basis computer generated reports.

Jupiter Transit Predictions & Remedies 2010-2011

2010-12-03T18:39:00.005+05:30

Jupiter Transit Predictions & Remedies

2010-2011

(Note: The forecasts for your rasi given here are general in nature and are made taking into account the transits & current positions of planets, particularly Jupiter’s transit into Pisces. Predictions specific to your chart can be made only after studying the placement of all the planets in your chart, your lagna, the Navamsa etc Varga charts and Mahadasha, Antardasha etc. Hence, it is advisable to consult a good astrologer with your birth details for personalized predictions.)

To know your moon sign, click here to fill up our form and receive your E-horoscope by email, FREE.

MESHA RASI (ARIES)

Jupiter is in the 12^th house signifying expenditure for auspicious functions. Saturn is posited in the 6^th house of diseases & enemies, Rahu in the 9^th and Ketu in the 3^rd. Not a good time for professionals seeking career growth. Students should steer clear of distractions. Put a cap on impulsive spending.

Remedies for Mesha (Aries):

1. Fasting on Thursdays

2. Offer a puja at Guru Temples at least once in a month or preferably on every Thursday.

3. Keep Shirdi Sai Baba’s Udhi Prasadam and take it in small quantities every Thursday.

4. Feed the poor and needy on Thursdays.

VRISHABHA RASI (TAURUS)

Jupiter is transiting the 11^th house of gains, Saturn is in the 5^th, Rahu in the 8^th and Ketu in the 2^nd. Prosperity, profits and success is assured. Ideal time for the unmarried to find their life partners. Promotions likely for those who are running favourable dasa. Students can come out in flying colours.

Remedies for Vrishabha (Taurus):

1. Offer a yellow cloth to Jupiter at a Navgraha shrine on a Thursday.

2. Offer yellow flowers at a Vishnu temple on Thursdays.

MITHUNA RASI (GEMINI)

Jupiter is transiting your 10^th house of profession. Saturn is in the 4^th, Rahu in the 7^th and Ketu is in your own Janma Rasi. Safeguard your position and profession, play it safe in partnerships and business deals. All major transits being unfavourable, this could be a challenging period. Remedies are compulsory to offset these negative indications.

Remedies for Mithuna Rasi (Gemini):

1. Offer a puja at Alangudi Dakshinamurthy Temple every Thursday.

2. Offer puja to Saturn also at Thirunallar temple on a Saturday to overcome ill effects of Ardhashtama Shani.

KARKATAKA RASI (CANCER)

Jupiter is in the 9^th (favourable). Saturn is transiting the 3^rd house, Rahu in the 6^th an Ketu in the 12^th. 3 major planets being favourably disposed (Saturn, Rahu, Jupiter), this is an excellent time for Karka Rasi borns in all fields. Ketu alone needs to be appeased.

Remedies for Karkataka Rasi (Cancer):

1. Offer a puja at Guruvayur Krishna temple to maximise blessings of Jupiter

2. Offer a puja at Siddhivinayak temple on a Tuesday to overcome obstacles.

SIMHA RASI (LEO)

Jupiter is transiting the 8^th house and hence unfavourable. Saturn in the 2^nd (last phase Sade Sathi is on) Rahu in the 5^th and Ketu in the 11^th. Theft, loss of possessions and honour, accidents and illness are indicated. Those who are running adverse dasas should perform remedies compulsorily. With 3 major planets being unfavourable, favourable Ketu alone cannot be of much help.

Remedies for Simha Rasi (Leo):

1. Offer a puja to Lord Ayyappan on a Saturday

2. Offer a puja at Siddhivinayak temple on a Friday.

3. Offer a puja to Guru Raghavendra Swami on a Thursday.

KANYA RASI (VIRGO)

Jupiter transiting the 7^th house is favourable. Saturn in Janma Rasi (core period of Sade Sathi or Elre Sani). Rahu in the 4^th and Ketu is in the 10^th. Jupiter’s grace will ease the suffering of Saturn’s 71/2 yr transit a little. Jupiter in the 7^th house of marriage & partnerships bodes well for those who are unmarried.

Remedies for Kanya Rasi (Virgo):

1. Perform Navagraha Homam.

2. Offer a puja at Namakkal Hanuman Temple on a Saturday

3. Offer a puja at Tiruchendur Murugan temple on a Thursday.

THULA RASI (LIBRA)

Jupiter is in the 6^th, Saturn in the 12^th (Sade Sathi has begun), Rahu in the 3^rd and Ketu in the 9^th. Both Jupiter and Saturn being unfavourable bodes ill for those who are running adverse Dasa period. Obstacles, ailments, accidents, thefts, losses and other negative indications need to be remedied.

Remedies for Thula Rasi (Libra):

1. Chant Raghavendra Kavacham every Thursday.

2. Donate yellow clothes to a priest and request him to perform Navagraha mantra chanting for you.

3. Offer puja at Thirunallar Saneeswarar Temple.

VRISCHIKA RASI (SCORPIO)

Jupiter in the 5^th is favourable and so is Saturn in the 11^th house. Rahu in the 2^nd and Ketu in the 8^th are unfavourable but their effect will only be like a pinprick since the major planets are favourable. Positive outcomes in all aspects of life are assured, specially for those who are running favourable Dasa.

Remedies for Vrischika Rasi (Scorpio):

1. Honour all teachers, elders and Gurus.

2. Offer a puja to Durga Devi on a Tuesday. Light a lamp during Rahukaalam on Tuesday at the temple.

3. Offer a puja at Karpaga Vinayagar Temple, Pillayarpatti.

DHANU RASI (SAGITTARIUS)

All major planets being unfavourable, this could be a troublesome period, especially for those who are running unfavourable Dasa period. Jupiter in the 4^th, Saturn in the 10^th , Rahu in Janma Rasi and Ketu in the 7^th are all unfavourable. Troubles and worries are indicated on all fronts. Remedies are compulsory to sail through this difficult phase.

Remedies for Dhanu Rasi (Sagittarius):

1. Offer a puja at Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple on Vaikuntha Ekadasi

2. .Offer a puja at Thirunallar SaneeswararTemple on at least one Saturday every month.

3. Chant Durga Saptashati

MAKARA RASI (CAPRICORN)

Jupiter’s transit through the 3^rd house is unfavourable, Saturn is in the 9^th, Rahu in the 12^th and Ketu in the 6^th. Adverse indications at home, work place and in matters of health, finance and studies but you will sail through all the problems. Remedies are a must to reduce suffering and boost your chances of success.

Remedies for Makara Rasi (Capricorn):

1. Offer a puja at Tiruchendur Murugan Temple on a Thursday

2. Worship Karpaga Vinayagar at Pillayarpatti

3. Perform Sudarsana Homam.

KUMBHA RASI (AQUARIUS)

Jupiter in the 2^nd will be favourable and indicates gains in business and promotions. Saturn in the 8^th can wreak havoc (Ashtama Shani) with loss of honour and conflicts. Rahu in the 11^th and Ketu in the 5^th are favourable.

Remedies for Kumbha Rasi (Aquarius):

1. Offer a puja at Rameswaram Hanuman Temple on a Saturday.

2. Light a lamp with Til oil (sesame) on Saturdays

3. Worship Guruvayur Sri Krishna on Thursday to maximize Jupiter’s grace.

MEENA RASI (PISCES)

Jupiter in the Janma Rasi is unfavourable, losses in business and obstacles in profession are indicated. Saturn in the 7^th is unfavourable, Rahu in the 10^th is favourable and Ketu in the 4^th is unfavourable. Except for Rahu, remedies for the other three planets are a must.

Remedies for Meena Rasi (Pisces):

1. Fast on Thursdays and worship Lord Dakshinamurthy.

2. Worship Mukkuruni Vinayagar at Madurai temple.

3. Chant Vishnu Sahasranaamam on Wednesday.

Coimbatore Branch of Udipi Sri Pejavara Adokshaja Matha Inaugurated

2010-11-29T14:57:00.003+05:30

Coimbatore Branch of Udipi Sri Pejavara Adokshaja Matha Inaugurated by H. H. Sri Sri Vishvesha Tirtha swamiji on 27th Novembner 2010.

Festival Calendar for Decaember 2010

2010-11-16T11:56:00.000+05:30

December 2, Thursday – Utpatti or Utpanna Ekadasi

December 3, Friday – Pradosh / Sant Dhyaneshwar Maharaj Punyatithi

December 5, Sunday – Amavasya

December 10, Friday – Ram Vivah Panchami

December 11, Saturday – Shasti Vratam (Puja & Fasting for Lord Murugan)

December 12, Sunday – Bhanu Saptami (Worship Lord Surya)

December 16, Thursday – Dhanu Sankranti (Sun enters Sagittarius)

December 17, Friday – Mokshada Ekadasi/ Vaikunta Ekadasi / Periya Ekadasi / Gita Jayanti

December 18, Saturday – Mukkoti Dwadasi / Pradosh / Matsya Jayanti

December 20, Monday – Dattatreya Jayanti

December 21, Tuesday – Purnima or full moon day

December 22, Wednesday– Arudra Darshanam

December 23, Thursday – Guru Pushya Yoga (worship Jupiter)

December 24, Friday – Sankashti Chaturthi / Sankatahara Chaturthi (Fasting & Puja of Lord Ganesha)

December 27, Monday – Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple Mandala Puja

December 30, Thursday – Sabarimala Temple opens for Makaravilakku

December 31, Friday – Saphala Ekadasi

Bagalamukhi Yantra and Bagalamukhi Homam

2010-10-30T17:48:00.002+05:30

Now you can order a Bagalamukhi yantra and Bagalamukhi Homam from Parihara.com. Click here to order.

Bagalamukhi or Bagala is one of the ten mahavidyas in Hinduism. Bagalamukhi Devi smashes the devotee's enemies (internal or external). Bagalamukhi is also called Pitambaradevi or Brahmastra Roopini and she turns each thing into its opposite. She turns speech into silence, knowledge into ignorance, power into impotence, defeat into victory. She represents the knowledge whereby each thing must in time become its opposite. As the still point between dualities she allows us to master them. To see the failure hidden in success, the death hidden in life, or the joy hidden in sorrow are ways of contacting her reality. Bagalamukhi is the secret presence of the opposite wherein each thing is dissolved back into the Unborn and the Uncreated.

New Introduction to Parihara.com

2010-10-27T22:28:00.001+05:30

November 2010 Festival Calendar

2010-10-23T19:02:00.002+05:30

November 2 – Rama Ekadasi Vratam

November 3 – Dhana Trayodasi (Dhanteras)

November 3 – Pradosham

November 5 – Naraka Chaturdasi

November 5 – Deepavali - Lakshmi Puja

November 6 – Annakuta /Govardhan Puja

November 7 – Kartik Maasa begins as per lunar calendar (Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.)
November 11 – Skanda Shashti Vratam
November 17 - Sabarimala Temple opens for 2-month Irumudi pilgrimage period

November 17 – Karthigai Month begins in Tamil Nadu (Tamil calendar)

November 17 – Vrischika Masam begins in Kerala (Malayalam Calendar)

November 17 – Utpanna Ekadasi

November 17 – Pandarpur Kartik Ekadasi Yatra

November 17 – Bhishma Panchaka Vratarambham

November 19 – Pradosham

November 21 – Tulasi Vivaha / Kartika Pournami

November 26 – Chaturthi Vratam

November 28 – Kalabhairavashtami

Symbolism of Lord Shiva

2010-10-22T21:00:00.001+05:30

Significance of observing Pashankusha Ekadasi

2010-10-20T12:12:00.000+05:30

Paashaankusha Ekadasi is observed on the 11th day of the bright fortnight in Ashwayuja maasam i.e. the next day after Vijayadasami. Paasham refers to Yama Paasham - the noose used by the God of Death to take away the soul of those whose time has come. Ankusham is the weapon which stops the Paasham. Hence, this ekadasi gives one the benefit of putting a stop to untimely death.

The Ashwayuja Masa falls in Sharad Ritu which is a transition time between the monsoon and winter. We often notice that many people fall ill during such seasonal transition. Hence, by observing a fast on this day and worshipping Lord Vishnu one can overcome many serious ailments and the fear of death itself.

Traditionally, Tulasi puja begins on this Ekadasi. Tulasi is worshipped in the evening with offerings of 5 ghee lamps, 5 types of flowers and 5 types of fruits and the tulasi worship goes on for a month till Kartika Pournami when Tulasi Vivaaha with Lord Krishna is performed.

You can offer a pooja on auspicious Ekadasi at famous Vishnu temples from Parihara.com

Offer Pithru Tharpanam at Rameshwaram

2010-10-09T16:48:00.004+05:30

Pithru Tharpanam is the oblations/Offerings to the manes/dead ancestors. In general 'Tharpanam' means "That offering which satisfies". And it is considered as the prime duty of every person to offer food for his dead ancestors on Ammavasai days. This practice is usually performed on River-banks of places such as Kasi in the North & Rameswaram in the South.

For those who are not able to perform the rituals regularly by themselves can choose to perform Tharpanam through our panel of priests in Rameshwaram, on their behalf. Our sastras and vedas also permit this. Akshadhai (blessed rice mixed with turmeric) is sent to you as prasadham after the tharpanam.

Tharpanam means that offering which satisfies . But what we mean by the word Tharpanam is the offering of water mixed with gingelly to the manes.(dead ancestors). We collect the details about your ancestors and our qualified Vedic priests perform the tharpanam on your behalf in the banks of Rameshwaram for your ancestors, with utmost sincerity on the forth-coming ammavasai date.

Though we have several ancestors, this offering is addressed to three generations of father, grand father and great grand father along with their wives in our family and maternal grand father, his father and grand father along with their wives in our mothers birth family. Only those whose father is dead are eligible to do Tharpanam. If maternal grandfather is alive Tharpanam should not be done for his family but restricted to our family.

As per Vedas, all manes are to live in the Pithru loka for some time and either be reborn as any being or go to lokas like deva loka, Vaikunta etc or even attain salvation by getting mixed with God. The pithru loka is populated by three group of pithru devas viz, Vasu, Rudra and Adhithya. It is believed that these devas receive our oblations and make it reach to our manes wherever they are and in whichever form they are.

The pithru loka is supposed to be on the unseen side of the moon. This portion gets exposed to sun on the new moon days. It is according to our concept lunch time for the people populating the pithru loka. These pithrus, since they have left the world are solely dependent on only their progeny to feed them. This feeding is done through Tharpanam. It is believed that if Tharpanam is not done out Pithru devas will curse us so that we may not have male descendents to offer tharpanam to us.

There are several type of tharpanams: - 1.Gunda tharpanam- the tharpanam, which is done in the first ten days of death. 2.Brahma yagna tharpanam-This is the oblation supposed to be done daily to the devas, rishis and pithrus. 3.Parheni tharpanam- this is the tharpanam, which is supposed to be done on the next day after annual sraaddha. This at present is being done after sraddha on the same day , because the priest does not have time to come the next day. Here the tharpanam is offered only to ones pithru varga (paternal side) 4. The regular tharpanam, which is supposed to be done on all amavasyas. Four Month beginnings viz mesha, karkidaga, thula and makara and eclipses.

Our books have asked us to perform tharpanam on 96 days in a year but this is not being done nowadays. Several acharyas have codified the method of tharpanam. Some of them are Apasthabha, Bodhayana, Drahyayana What is given below is the manthras and method of the Apasthabha sutra.of Yajur veda. There is slight differences in the sankalpam among Iyers and Iyengars.Both versions are given here.It is understood that the tharpanam for Rig vedis is almost similar but that for Sanma Vedis is different.

Click here to book your Tharpanam at Rameshwaram

Swayamvara Parvathi Homam on auspicious Durgashtami - 15th October 2010

2010-10-09T16:41:00.001+05:30

Here's a good news for all the eligible bachelors and bachelorettes! We are going to perform a Samoohika Swayamvara Parvathi Homam on the auspicious Maha Ashtami day during the Navaratri festival i.e., Friday, 15th October 2010. Customers can register their names for the homam by choosing the samoohika homam from below for just Rs.501/-

Those who cannot afford to order a full fledged homam, can benefit from the above Samoohika homam.

The homam rituals vary for boys and girls. Usually, 108 lotuses dipped in honey are offered as oblations while chanting the Swayamvara Parvati Mantra. Parihara.com brings you a golden opportunity to perform this powerful yagna through our panel of qualified Vedic priests who are well trained in chanting and rituals. The prasadam (raksha or homa sesham) will be shipped to you. The video of the homam will be uploaded to youtube and emailed to you.

Click here to register yourself now for the Swayamvara Parvati Homam.

Significance of Sankatahara Chaturthi or Sankashti Chaturthi

2010-09-21T13:07:00.005+05:30

Sankatahara Chaturthi or Sankashti Chaturthi is a Vrata observed on the Chaturthi, the fourth day of Krishna Paksha (chaturthi which comes after the full moon) during every month. Devotees of Lord Ganesh consider the vratam as highly auspicious and effective in overcoming obstacles and problems (sankat).

The Vratam should be observed for a period of one year starting on Magha Krishna Chaturthi or Bhadrapada Krishna Chaturthi or when the Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday during the year ( also called Angaraka Sankatahara Chaturthi).

The person or couple who wish to undertake this Vrata should perform a sankalpa (firm resolution) in the morning after taking a head bath and worshipping Lord Ganesha that they will observe this vrata for one year. They must observe a fast for the whole day and worship Lord Ganesha after moon rise in the evening with Durva grass (darbha) , modak, Shwetaarka flower and other offerings which are dear to Lord Ganesha.

The significance, spiritual importance and the greatness of Sankatahara Chaturthi is mentioned in the Bhavishya Purana and the Narasimha Purana. Sankashti Chaturthi mahatmya was narrated by Lord Krishna to Yudhistira.

The story is told of a King who had no issues, in spite of performing many austerities and pujas. He prays to Rishi Narada to help him. Lord Narada visits the world of ancestors (Pitri Loka) and discovers that the king's ancestors were suffering in hell as the King had no children. The King's father tells Maharishi Narada that the King should invoke the blessings of Lord Ganesha to obtain progeny and release them from hell. The King undertakes the Sankatahara Chaturthi Vrata and within a year he is blessed with progeny and his ancestors also attain swarga.

The second important incident associated with the Chaturth Vratam is about Mangala graha. Lord Mangal performs severe austerities for 1,000 years without food or water to appease Lord Ganesha who appears in front of him on the Magha Krishna Chaturthi day soon after moon rise and blesses him. Mangalagraha requests Lord Ganesha that he should similarly bless any person who undertakes the Chaturthi Vrata. This is why Lord Ganesha is addressed as 'Mangala Murti'.

You can offer a pooja at famous Ganesha Temples in India on the auspicious Sankatahara Chaturthi every month through Parihara.com and get the prasadam delivered to your home:

Click here to book your Sankatahara Chaturthi pooja

Why should we pray / meditate daily?

2010-09-21T10:25:00.003+05:30

In Competitive Societies, We Hurt Each Other

Swami Dayananda Saraswati explains the need

for performing daily rituals or meditation

Competition has acceptable rules, which both competitors follow; when I get a chance, I hurt you, though not illegally, and you hit me all right, but never below the belt. We allow ourselves to hurt others, we equip and protect ourselves to hurt others, and they have as much right to hurt us, because those are the rules of the game. It is called paapadravya-upajeevanam. Our upajeevanam, daily earning, is through competition, which is often at the cost of someone else, or sometimes not through fair means. Even in a society where there is no competition, there is some act of paapa associated with earning one’s livelihood, but where there is competition, the earning is definitely paapa-dravya. This is the reason we need to pray daily. It is like taking a cleansing bath everyday. Because you need to earn your living, you have to have a vidhikriyaa, an enjoined ritual action, like the daily agnihotra-karma or some other vaidika-karma. If you don’t do any of these, at least do puja, kirtan or japa, or, at the very least, do meditation, so that you get rid of this daily gathering of sins.

Festivals in October 2010

2010-09-20T22:33:00.003+05:30

October 2010
1. Fri: Mahalakshmi Vrata Samapana. Kalashtami.

4. Mon: Indira Ekadasi.

5. Tue: Pradosham.

6. Wed: Masa Shivaratri.

7. Thur: Mahalaya Amavasya.

8. Fri: Navaraatri Pooja Aarambha,

9. Sat: Chandradarsana.

11. Mon: Lalita Panchami

13. Wed: Shashtivrata, Saraswati Avahana.

14. Thur: Durgapooja begins.

15. Fri: Durgashtami, Maha Ashtami.

16 Sat: Sravanavrata, Ayudhapooja, Mahanavami, Saraswatipooja, Saraswati Visarjana.

17 Sun: Vijayadasami, Dasara , Sri Madhavacharya Jayanti, Kaveri Samkramana Snana.

18. Mon: Pasankusa (Papankusa) Ekadasi.

20. Wed: Pradosham, Asoka Triratri Vratam.

22. Fri: Annabhisheka. Pournamipooja, Kojagari Lakshmi Pooja (Bengal), Kumara Pournima, Sarat Pournima, Kojagari (Lakshmindra Pooja) Maharshi Vaimiki’s Birthday.

25. Mon: Krittikavrata.

26. Tue: Sankataharachaturlhi, Karaka Chaturthi (Karwa chouth), Dasarata Chaturti.

28. Thur: Shashtivrata.

Kanti Vrata: 9th October 2010

2010-09-20T22:22:00.002+05:30

Kanti Vrata

THIS austerity is related with the worship of Sri Krishna and Balaram. It commences on the second day of the bright half of the lunar month, Kartika(Oct—Nov) and lasts for a year, whereby a devotee observes a fast on the second day (bright half) of every month that follows.

While worshipping Balarama, a devotee should chant. “Om Baladevaya Namah” and while worshipping Sri Krishna, he should chant “Om Keshavaya Namah”. Subsequently, arghya (water) is offered to both the deities. A devotee should have food prepared from barley-flour in the night, but those devotees who have resolved to observe this austerity for four months beginning from Phalguna (Feb.-March) should live only on “kheer”.

Offerings of rice and sesame seeds are made in the sacrificial fire during the months of Aghan (Nov—Dec) and Kartika (Oct—Nov) respectively. The rituals conclude by worshipping the deity “Chandrama” at the end of the year. Finally all the three idols Sri Krishna, Balarama and Chandrama should be donated to Brahmins. A devotee who observes this austerity is bestowed with a charming personality. Kanti Vrata falls on 9th October 2010.

Source: Varaha Purana

Karva Chauth: 27th October 2010

2010-09-20T22:10:00.002+05:30

Wives fast the whole day and wait till the Moonrise to break the fast, in the presence of the husbands. They believe that it ensures the well-being, prosperity and longevity of their husbands.

The fast of Karva Chauth is of particular importance to Hindu women, as they believe that it ensures the wellbeing, prosperity and longevity of their husbands.

This festival is glorified and widely solemnized by the Hindus and Sikhs of North-western India. As the name signifies, “Karva” meaning “a clay pot’ and “chauth” corresponding to the “fourth” - this festival is commemorated on the fourth day after the Full Moon in Kartik month (Oct-Nov) of the lunar calendar.

A few days before Karva Chauth, married women buy new karvas, the spherical clay pots and paint them on the outside with beautiful designs. Usually, falling in the month of October, Karvachauth is celebrated amidst harvesting of summer crops.

Apart from the fast, kept by married women for the long life of their husbands, people like to remember and meet their relatives and friends, and exchange gifts with them. Wives fast the whole day and wait till Moonrise to break the fast, in the presence of their husbands.

In the evening, women dress gorgeously and worship the rising Moon with food offering, jewellery etc. Then, they receive the first bite of food and water from their husbands and end their fast.

Daily Panchanga: 12 Sep 2010, Sunday

2010-09-12T09:58:00.001+05:30

12 Sep 2010: Ravivara, Vikruti, D.ayana, Bhadrapad, S.Panchami, Swati nakshatra, Indra yoga, Bava karana, Rahukala:1630-1800hrs. www.parihara.com

Rishi Panchami today. Worship Sapta Rishis today to overcome all graha doshas - Atri, Vashishtha, Vishvamitra etc. www.parihara.com

2010-09-08T19:05:00.000+05:30

9 Sep '10: Guruvara, Vikruti, D.ayana, Bhadrapad, S.Pratipada, U.Phalguni, Sadhya yoga, Bava karana, Rahukala:1330-1500hrs. www.parihara.com

Mesha, Vrishabha, Karkataka, Simha, Kanya, Vrishchika, Makara and Meena Rashi borns have Chandra bala now. Chandraashtama for Kumbha Rashi Borns.

Book your puja in advance for Ganesh Chaturthi. Offer puja at famous Ganesha temples & get prasadam delivered at home. Click here for more info

2010-09-06T18:23:00.002+05:30

7 Sep '10: Mangalavara, Vikruti, D.ayana, Sravana, Chaturdasi, Makha nakshatra, Siva yoga, Visti karana, Rahukala:1500-1630hrs www.parihara.com

Mesha, Mithuna,Karkataka,Simha, Tula, Vrishchika, Kumbha and Meena Rashi borns have Chandra bala now.Chandraashtama for Makara Rashi Borns.

Chandraashtama is the period when the Moon crosses through the 8th house from your Moon sign for 2 1/2 days. When Moon is in the 8th house, disappointments, accidents and reversals occur. This period is avoided for launching new ventures or important tasks.

2010-09-01T16:53:00.002+05:30

Sep 2010: Guruvara, Ashtami till 10:43 and then Navami, Rohini till 13:4&then Mrigasira nakshatram, Harshana yoga, Balava karana, Rahukalam: 1330-1500hrs

Mesha,Karka, Simha, Tula, Vrishchika, Dhanu, Makara, and Meena Rashi borns have Chandra bala now. Ashtama Chandra For Tula Rashi Borns.

www.parihara.com

Krishna Janmashtami Greetings.

2010-08-31T17:45:00.000+05:30

Parihara.com wishes all its subscribers a very happy Krishna Janmashtami. This Janmashtami is thrice auspicious - Wednesday, Ashtami & Rohini !!

1 Sep 2010: Budhavara, Vikruti, Dakshinayana, Sravana, K.Ashtami, Rohini, Harshana yoga, Balava karana, Rahukalam:1200-1330hrs. www.parihara.com

REACH foundation restores ancient temple

2010-08-25T14:01:00.003+05:30

Parihara.com congratulates REACH foundation for its exemplary work in restoring the 1200 year old Kailasanatha temple in Uttaramerur:

1,200-year old temple restored to its original beauty

REACH Foundation, an NGO, behind this massive conservation effort

The change that has come over the 1,200-year old Kailasanathar temple at Uttaramerur, about 90 km from Chennai, is unbelievable. The temple, which was in total ruins, with dense vegetation growing over its vimana (the tower above the sanctum) and collapsed mantapas, looks as good as new today. The vimana has been restored to its original beauty, its broken stucco figurines re-created, the foundation's granite stones re-stitched and the fallen mantapas re-erected. REACH Foundation, a non-governmental organisation, was behind this massive restoration and conservation effort.

“There were many challenges in this restoration and conservation work,” said T. Satyamurthy, founder of the Foundation and former Superintending Archaeologist, Archaeological Survey of India, who led the efforts. He said: “We overcame the challenges. The vimana has been conserved and restored, using as much as possible international techniques. The front mantapa, which had completely collapsed, stands majestically again. The arthamantapa has been re-assembled. The entire structure has been water-tightened. Not a drop of water can enter it now.”

The restoration process, which began on June 3, 2008, yielded a bonanza. Six inscriptions, one of Aditya Chola, (regnal years 871 - 907 CE), three of Rajendra Chola (regnal years 1012-1044 CE), one belonging to the Vijayanagara king Krishnadevaraya (early 16th century CE) and another of the late Vijayanagara period were found. A beautiful sculpture of a young bull (Nandi) and bas reliefs of Tamil Saivite saints Sundarar, Tirugnana Sambandar and Appar were among the other discoveries. Ballustraded steps of the Pallava period were excavated. (The Hindu, June 1 and November 20, 2008).

This Kailasanathar temple was built by the Pallava king Dantivarman towards the end of the 8th century CE. It was “a Mahaprasada,” that is, “a great temple.”

The sanctum sanctorum was built with two walls -inner and outer running around it, with an intervening space, called the sandhara type. The vimana rose over the inner wall. Thus the inner wall bore the entire weight of the vimana which was built of bricks. A solid shikara crowned the vimana. With dense vegetation including a tree growing over the vimana, its bricks had cracked on three sides. On the northern side, the crack was three-foot wide.

The cracks had dislodged the vimana's beautiful stucco figurines, which had fallen. The plinth's granite slabs had moved from their positions. Dr. Satyamurthy said, “The cracks in the vimana posed a major problem.

The challenge was whether to keep the plinth as it is or reconstruct it completely by dismantling its stone members and re-assembling them. We were not sure whether the plinth will bear the weight of the vimana.” The staff and students of the Civil Engineering Department of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras, stitched the plinth's granite slabs with mild steel. They tested a few slabs by providing the same stress on them as the vimana would have. They found that the stitching would bear the vimana's weight.

The front mantapa, built by the Vijayanagara rulers, had collapsed because it had no proper footing. In re-erecting it, all its old members were used. “This was a redeeming feature,” said P.N. Subramanian, trustee, REACH Foundation.

V. Venkatakrishnan, agriculturist from Uttraramerur, provided the finance for the restoration by selling his land. Although the peepul tree, which had grown over the vimana, had damaged it, it had its own use. A woman devotee bought it and transplanted it in an ashram's premises.

“We successfully restored the brick vimana by using lime plaster which was accepted by it. If we had used cement, it would have rejected it,” explained Dr. Satyamurthy.

Courtesy: The Hindu, 25th August 2010

Strengthen your relationships this Raksha Bandhan

2010-08-22T17:57:00.000+05:30

The full moon day of the month of Sraavan is celebrated as Rakhi Purnima or Raksha Bandhan. Indian society celebrates relationships and the values which sustain life long friendship and camaraderie. Raksha Bandhan is a beautiful festival symbolizing our sacred attitude to human relationships.

In today's world, families are disintegrating and dispersing across continents. Hence, it is all the more urgent that we renew our bond with our near and dear ones and do not allow distance to eat into the vitality of these beautiful relationships.

Technology is a boon for reaching out to family members across continents today. And we at Parihara.com would like to provide yet another opportunity to all our customers to send Rakhi greetings to their near and dear ones with a profound spiritual gesture through our Rakhi pooja offer. Now don't just send a rakhi by post. Along with the rakhi you can send the blessings of God by offering a pooaj for your sibling at famous temples in India. So, your rakhi will now be sanctified and posted along with the prasadam from these sacred shrines of your Ishta Devatas.

Hurry! With just two days left for Rakhi, choose the temple of your choice where you wish to offer a pooja in your brother's name. Remember to mention your gift message and other instructions while booking your pooja order:
http://www.parihara.com/featured/raksha-bandhan.html

Daily Panchanga: Wednesday, 18th August 2010

2010-08-17T19:01:00.003+05:30

18th August 2010, Budhavara, Vikruti Nama Samvatsara, DakshinayanVarsha Ritu, , Sravana Masa, Shukla Paksha Navami, Anuradha, Vaidhruti Yoga, Kaulava karana, Rahukala: 1200-1330 hrs.

Vrishabha, Mithuna, Karka, Kanya, Tula, Vrishchika, Makara, Kumbha and Meena rashi borns have Chandra bala now. Chandraashtama for Mesha Rashi Borns.

Navami is Rikta Tithi, not suitable for new beginnings in general. Wednesday is good for communication and educational activities. Anuradha star is for journeys and wearing new clothes.

Daily Panchanga: 17 August 2010

2010-08-16T15:49:00.002+05:30

17th August 2010, Mangalavara, Vikruti Nama Samvatsara, Dakshinayana, Greeshma Ritu, Sravana Masa, Shukla Paksha Ashtami, Anuradha, Indra yoga, Bava karana, Rahukala: 1500-1630 hrs.

Vrishabha, Mithuna, Karka, Kanya, Tula, Vrishchika, Makara, Kumbha and Meena rashi borns have Chandra bala now. Chandraashtama For Mesha Rashi Borns.

Tuesday is not good, specially for travelling and driving since Mars rules over it and makes it prone to accidents. Ashtami is called Jaya Tithi -good for activities where victory is desired like debates, legal disputes etc. Anuradha star is good for new beginnings.

Sravana Masa Tuesdays are auspicious for the worship of Goddess Durga.

Daily Panchanga: Saturday, 15th August 2010

2010-08-15T12:12:00.002+05:30

15th August 2010, Ravivara, Vikruti Nama Samvatsara, Dakshinayana, Greeshma Ritu, Sravana Masa, Shukla Paksha Shashti, Swati, Shukla yoga, Taitula karana, Rahukala: 1630-1800 hrs.

Greetings to all our customers on Independence Day. Salutations to our punyabhumi Bharat and to all Rishis, saints and mahatmas born here.

Shashti is forbidden for travel, it is said that if a person sets out on a journey on Shashti, it leads to a quarrel. Sunday and Chitra are good otherwise.

Offer salutations to the Sun God by doing Suryanamaskaras and offering water. Chant Aditya Hridaya stotram.

Daily Panchanga: Saturday, 14th August 2010

2010-08-14T12:24:00.003+05:30

14th August 2010, Sanivara, Vikruti Nama Samvatsara, Dakshinayana, Greeshma Ritu, Sravana Masa, Shukla Paksha Panchami, Chitra, Sadhya yoga, Balava karana, Rahukala: 900-1030 hrs

Naga Panchami / Garuda Panchami today. It is very auspicious to perform Rahu Ketu dosha nivarana pooja, Kalasarpa Shanti and Subramanya pooja today to overcome all rahu/ketu doshas, sarpa dosha etc.

Garuda Panchami: Garuda is said to have brought the pot of ambrosia from heaven to liberate his mother Vinata from slavery to his step mother Kadruva. Kadruva had cheated Vinata earlier in a bet and forced her into slavery on condition that she would be released only when her children would be offered ambrosia. But Garuda knew that giving the nectar of immortality to his cousins & enemies, the Nagas or snakes would prove disastrous to the world. So, he brought the pot of ambrosia and kept it on Durva grass and before the snakes could reach the pot, he flew away with it back to heaven, thus liberating his mother and also protecting dharma! Chant 'Om Shree Garudadhwajaya Namaha' today 108 times. Garduadhwaja is the name of Lord Vishnu whose flag & vahana is Garuda. Chanting this name is said to cure people of infectious diseases and poisons. Garuda cures Rama and Lakshmana from the poisonous arrows shot by Indrajit in the Ramayana.

Daily Panchanga: Friday, 13th August 2010

2010-08-13T13:03:00.002+05:30

13th August 2010, Sukravara, Vikruti Nama Samvatsara, Dakshinayana, Greeshma Ritu, Sravana Masa, Shukla Paksha Chaturthi, Hasta Nakshatra, Siddhi yoga, Vishti karana, Rahukala: 1030-1200 hrs

The Fridays in the month of Sravana are auspicious for worshipping Goddess Lakshmi to earn her grace to attain success in material life and prosperity. Chant Lakshmi Narayana Hridayam, Lakshmi Kavacham, Lakshmi Ashtottaram, Lakshmi Ashatakam etc.

Goddess Lakshmi instructs Indra, the king of the Gods that she resides only in those houses where cleanliness is maintained, the rishis and guests are respected and where people live according to dharma. So, in order to retain Lakshmi's grace it is important to follow these rules.

Daily Panchanga: Thursday, 12 August 2010

2010-08-12T16:54:00.004+05:30

12 Aug 2010: Guruvara, Ashadha Masa, S.Trithiya, Nakshatra, Siva yoga, Taitula karana, Rahukala:1330-1500 hrs www.parihara.com

Trithiya and Thursday are good but P. Phalguni is not so good for new beginnings. Mesha, Mithuna,Karkataka,Simha, Tula, Vrishchika, Kumbha and Meena Rashi borns have Chandra bala now. Chandraashtama for Makara Rashi Borns.

Recite a chapter of Guru Gita or Datta Charitra to gain the grace of Guru. Worship Dakshinamoorthy or Guruvayur Krishna.

Daily Panchanga: 11 August 2010

2010-08-10T15:55:00.000+05:30

11 Aug 2010: Budhavara, Ashadha Masa, S.Dwithiya, Makha Nakshatra, Parigha yoga, Balava karana, Rahukala:1200-1330 hrs www.parihara.com

Dwithiya and Wednesday are good but Makha star is not so good for new beginnings. Mesha, Mithuna, Karkataka, Simha, Tula, Vrishchika, Kumbha and Meena Rashi borns have Chandra bala now.Ashtama Chandra For Makara Rashi Borns.

Chanting Vishnusahasranamam on Wednesdays is considered specially beneficial to gain the grace of Lord Vishnu.

Daily Panchanga: 09 August 2010

2010-08-09T15:07:00.002+05:30

9th August 2010, Somavara, Vikruti Nama Samvatsara, Dakshinayana, Greeshma Ritu, Ashadha Masa, Krishna Paksha Chaturdasi, Pushyami Nakshatra, Vyatipata yoga, Chatuspada karana, Rahukala: 730-900 hrs

Vrishabha, Mithuna,Karkataka, Kanya, Tula, Vrishchika, Makara, Kumbha and Meena Rashi borns have Chandra bala now. Ashtama Chandra For Dhanu Rashi Borns.

Pushyami star represents 'nourishment' and is considered a very auspicious star for new beginnings for any new venture started under this star is said to grow and is nourished. It is particularly good for starting physiotherapy, medication and businesses where growth and expansion is important.

However, Chaturdasi is 'rikta tithi' and is inauspicious for good beginnings. So, it's a mixed day today on the whole. However, for spiritual pursuits, it's excellent. Particularly, since Chaturdasi is observed as the monthly Shivaratri, worshipping Lord Shiva today will yield special benefits.
Chant Rudram, chamakam, shivasahsranamam, panchakshari mantra, mrityunjaya mantra etc.

Beautiful Temples of Mangalore - Mangaladevi & Kudroli Gokarananath Temples

2010-08-08T15:08:00.004+05:30

I was invited to lecture at the summer camp for the teachers of the Amrita Vidyalayam, Mangalore in July 2010. After my talk was over in the morning, I had plenty of time and the school principal and the correspondent Swamini Mangalamrita Chaitanya were gracious enough to provide me with a car to visit the temples in Mangalore.

It turned out to be one of the best temple tours of my life. I had long been waiting to visit the Mangaladevi temple as a visit to this temple is said to help bachelors find a suitable life partner, like the famous Tirumanancheri temple in Tamilnadu. :-) The Mangalore town derives its name from Mangalooru named after the goddess Mangaladevi.

The Gokarnanatheswara Temple deserves a special mention. It is one of the cleanest and most beautiful temples I have ever visited. It is well maintained by the Kerala based Narayana Guru samsthanam.

Gokarnanatheshwara, Lord Shiva, is the main deity. The main temple is surrounded by the smaller temples for Mahaganapathi, Subramanya, Shaneeshwara, the Navagraha, Annapoorneswari and Anandabhairava. Murals, showing a variety of scenes from legends, mythology and epics, of different gods and goddesses decorate four gopuras, pillars in this temple constructed in the Tamil Nadu style.

Visiting this temple and offering a pooja here is a blissful experience for the soul. You can now offer a pooja at these Mangalore temples from Parihara.com:

1. Offer a pooja at Mangaladevi Temple

2. Offer a pooja at Gokarnanatheswara Temple

Daily Panchanga: 08 August 2010

2010-08-08T13:53:00.000+05:30

8th August 2010, Ravivara, Vikruti Nama Samvatsara, Dakshinayana, Greeshma Ritu, Ashadha Masa, Krishna Paksha Trayodasi, Punarvasu Nakshatra, Vajra yoga, Vanija karana, Rahukala: 1630-1800 hrs

Mesha, Vrishabha, Mithuna, Simha, Kanya, Tula, Dhanu, Makara, and Kumbha Rashi borns have Chandra bala now. Ashtama Chandra For Vrishchika Rashi Borns.

Punarvasu is Lord Rama's star. This solar month of Cancer (Karkataka Masa), is celebrated in Kerala as Ramayana Masa and people read the Ramayana everyday.

According to scriptures, performing suryanamaskaras on Sunday brings you special grace of the Sun God & removes poverty.

www.parihara.com

Remedies for Manglik Dosh (Kuja Dosha / Chovvai Dosham)

2010-07-03T13:53:00.000+05:30

Mangala Devi, Mangalore

There are many kinds of remedial measures, in which yantra and tantra play a prominent role in curtailing the evils. Yantra means an instrument or apparatus or a Talisman, a mystical graph. It is the shortest and easiest boon handed over to us by our Siddha sages for fulfilment of our ambitions. These yantras can be made on Gold, Silver, Copper, Bhojpatra, or Sphatik etc. Auspicious and some specific Muhurtas have also been specified for preparation of a yantra. These yantras can be written on bhojpatra with Ashtagandh. Special and specific Mantra japa and worship is done on these yantras to energize them.

Mars does play a vital role, in a female chart particularly, as it is a karaka or significator for husband. Therefore, the affliction of Mars curtails the marital harmony and causes delay. Mars / Mangal / Kuja / Bhouma / Angaraka Dosha is formed, when it is posited in any of the 1st, 4th, 7th, 8th, or 12th houses, of the chart. The first house is for self, 4th for marital happiness and peace of mind, 7th house for the partner in life; 8th house, the most malefic house is the 2nd from 7th and is also known as Mangalya Bhav and 12th for the pleasures of bed. So, all these houses are connected with the marital happiness and harmony. To this, I also add the second house, as it represents family. Married life without progeny will often become a nightmare. But Mars in these houses will have an adverse effect, only if it is a functional malefic planet for the native.

Remedy for the Mangal Dosha

Mangal Gauri Yantra is the only remedy for Manglik Dosha. If the native is facing problems such as late marriage, then the native is advised to do the Mangal Gauri Anusthan.

Om Hreem Mangalagauri Vivaahabaadhaam Naashaaya Swaha |

The above mantra is to be recited for a minimum of sixty four thousand to a maximum of hundred twenty five thousand times. The sage of the Mantra is Aja. The metre is Gayatri. The deity of the Mantra is Manglagauri. The Bija is Hrim and the Shakti is Swaha. The yantra is to be installed on a pedestal covered with yellow cloth. The yantra is worshipped with ‘panchopachara’ which includes the articles like vermillion, rice, flowers, incense, pure ghee and deepa (earthern lamp). Articles of Mars are to be donated after the worship.

(Extract from the book ‘Yantra Mahima’ by Dr.M.H.K.Shastri and Pt.Laxmi Kant Vashisth, Sagar Publications, New Delhi.)

Click here to order a Mangala Yantra

Navaratri: The Festival of Nine Nights

2010-06-28T13:01:00.006+05:30

Gujarat, the land of festivals, is renowned for its spirit of festivity. There are many festivals uniquely associated with this state and celebrated by its heritage proud people who strictly adhere to their age old customs and traditions.

Navratri is the prime festival of Gujarat and the most colorful and rocking one. It is a festival of fasting, feasting and frolicking and is celebrated by the young and old alike on a mammoth scale. The Gujarat government is known for its lavish arrangements and fortitude during this period.

Navratri also known as Maha Navratri or Sharad Navratri is celebrated in the month of Ashwin during Sharad. (the beginning of winter: September-October.) It commences on the first day and ends on the tenth day of the bright half of the lunar month of Ashwin.

Navratri means 9 divine nights. This festival honors the one Divine Shakti/Force which supports the entire universe and is personified as the Mother Goddess. She protects her worshippers, destroys evil and grants boon to her children. During the 9 days, people fast and visit temples to pray to the Goddess.

There are several myths and legends associated with the celebration of this festival. According to one, the mighty demon Mahishasura obtained the boon of eternity from Lord Shiva. He then killed innocent people and harassed the Gods. Intimated by his power, all the Gods from Swargalok appealed to Lord Shiva to tame the demon. Then Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh united their supreme powers and created a divine being called Shakti or Durga – the warrior Goddess. Mahishasura was mesmerized by her beauty and proposed marriage. The Goddess agreed to marry him on condition that he win her over in a duel. The demon agreed. The duel went on 9 nights (Navratri) at the end of which Durga beheaded Mahishasura. The tenth day is celebrated as Vijayadashmi.

The 9 manifestations of Durga worshipped during Navratri are:

1.Durga – Goddess beyond reach.
2.Bhadrakali – auspicious power of time.
3.Amba/Jagdamba - Mother of the World.
4.Annapurna – Giver of food and plenty.
5.Sarvamangala – auspicious Goddess.
6.Bhairavi – terrible fearful power of death.
7.Chandika/Handi – violent wrathful furious
8.Lalita – playful.
9.Bhavani – giver of existence.

For all-round success in life, believers seek the blessings of all the manifestations of the divine Mother Goddess.

During Navratri, people visit the temples of Amba Mata and Bechraji Mata to enjoy Gujarat’s typical folk drama: the Bhavai.

The Navratri cuisine has strictly vegetarian meals with special courses. Most people eat only one meal a day at sunset. The goodies that can be savored after the Navratri fast include a multitude of culinary delights like aloo raita, dal puris, gajar ka halwa etc.

In the nights, the festive mood completely sweeps off everybody. The main attraction of the festival is Garba and Dandiya Raas – the traditional dance forms of the region. People from all walks of life, irrespective of caste and creed wear colorful Ghagras and Cholis with sparkling accessories, and dance together all night with great joy and religious fervor till the wee hours of the morning. Moving around a circle in a Garbo indicates the never-ending cycle of creation, maintenance and destruction phases of supreme reality.

The word ‘Garba’ comes from the Sanskrit Garba (womb) and Deep (a small earthen ware lamp). This dance is performed by groups of women around the object of veneration The Garbo: an earthen ware pot/kumbh filled with water. A betel nut and a silver coin are placed within it and a coconut is placed on the top. Alternately, an image of the Goddess or a lamp may be placed. The concept of Garbo is:

1.Microcosm-an earthen pot with light which shines through similar to the human body with light of God within.

2.Macrocosm:-the universe of ours is an earthen pot and the light of the supreme energy shines through(sun/shakti).

The dancers whirl around to the accompaniment of drum-beats and folk tunes provided by a drummer and a singer. The participants dance in a steady rhythm. Nowadays, loudspeakers are used to enhance the sound which grows to a crescendo. The dance starts slowly, gets faster with the music and then abruptly comes to a halt. After a brief pause, the dance commences – the singer leading with a new song, in praise of the Goddess.

The Dandiya Raas or the stick dance is a rumbustious explosion of color and gaiety, performed by men and women holding small polished sticks on Dandiyas. As they whirl to the intoxicating rhythm of the dance, the participants strike the Dandiyas together adding to the joyous atmosphere.

So popular are the Garba and the Dandiya Raas, that competitions are held in village squares, temple courtyards, open grounds and enclosed halls (where open spaces are unavailable). Prizes are given to the best judged dancers. Garba parties are especially enormous in Ahmadabad and Vadodara – both well known centers of music and culture. This popular festival is no longer confined to the boundaries of the stately and traditional state of Gujarat but has now found practitioners and acolytes in other states of India also.
Not only that, Garba is very popular amongst the youth of Gujarati/Indian diaspora in the UK and the USA, where many universities have Raas Garba competitions every year with professional choreography.

This bright, musical and ebullient festival of Navratri is celebrated with a great deal of pomp and splendor and aplomb which makes all these events quintessentially Gujarati in spirit and rhythm. Worship and general merriment seems to be the order of the day as people of all hues and denominations venture outside their homes to be one with the festive spirit of Gujarat, India.

- Anupam Mujumdar, student intern, Parihara.com

Blogger Review of Parihara.com -3

2010-06-28T11:49:00.001+05:30

Here's one more review of Parihara.com on the blogosphere:

Parihara
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Blogger Review of Parihara.com - 2

2010-06-28T11:08:00.001+05:30

Here is yet another positive review of www.parihara.com on th blogosphere:

Wonderful Spiritual website- Parihara.com

http://practiceofdharma.blogspot.com/2010/06/wonderful-spiritual-website-pariharacom.html

Festivals & the Great Indian Family

2010-06-27T14:01:00.002+05:30

Festivals have always been the source of joy and happiness. The vibrance of colours, the amalgam of different sounds, all create a feeling of excitement and enjoyment. And the best way to celebrate any festival is with one’s own family. Family, being the strongest anchor in our lives holds all the flavours and aroma needed for the celebrations. The pull of one’s family, back home, to celebrate a festival is strong and yet, very pleasant and draws both young and old.

Festivals are ideal to enhance family bonding and unity. It is because during festivals the different members of the family come together as a single entity to celebrate. Festivals also contribute immensely to this because most festivals require the participation of the entire family. The entire family comes together to celebrate, creating a mood of gaiety and cheerfulness. After staying united in times of sorrow and hardships, festivals are symbolically the celebration of joys as one, happy family. During the festival season, the members of the family, who are away from home due to various reasons, make it a point to be there, and celebrate with loved ones. This makes the festival all the more enjoyable.

The gap between the older and younger generations in the family is bridged .It is during these festival times that the elders in the house are given paramount importance. Elders, being a storehouse of knowledge and wisdom, often provide insight into the procedures followed for various rituals during the festivals. They also assume the charge during the celebration for the different procedures. They also guide the youngster in preparing the traditional gourmet dishes of the festival. . Listening to their anecdotes and stories are an experience of a different kind. Most of the myths and folklore associated with the festivities are passed down as priceless immortal gifts from the elders in the family. In a way, the older generation sustains the festivals with the help of the young.

The festival season also provides the opportunity for everyone in the family irrespective of age and position to be given equal importance and the right to enjoy and have fun. Grandparents, parents and children come together to celebrate and silently echo the strong bond of love, the bond of blood that holds them all together.

Many religious festivals also portray the family as the fundamental entity. In Hinduism, Gokulashtami is celebrated by the followers heralding the birth of Lord Krishna. Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ into a family. Many festivals also involve many traditions which require active participation of all the members of the family. The festival of lights, Diwali, is celebrated across India by many people, irrespective of caste and religion. During Diwali, all the members of the family enjoy the occasion by bursting crackers and distributing sweets. Young and old, alike enjoy the festivities and together adorn the house with lighted earthen lamps welcoming wealth and prosperity into the household. In the southern state of India, Kerala, the festival of Onam is celebrated where the members of the family together make the traditional floral carpet called the pookalam. The Christians celebrate Christmas with the family and everyone comes together to decorate the Christmas tree and the crib depicting the scene of Nativity. The members of the family exchange gifts, ushering in an era of peace and happiness. The Muslims also celebrate the festival of Eid ul –fitr with near and dear ones. The Eid ul –fitr feast is attended by the entire family spreading cheer and bliss.

The bliss of a festival makes it possible for the family to get over indifferences and come together. Members of the family who are involved in disputes try to make amends and maintain cordial ties amongst one another and their relationships are strengthened. The blissful mood and the festive aura brings about a subtle positivity in everyone present making it possible to unite happily as a family. Differences in opinions are forgiven and forgotten because, after all the essence of celebrating a festival is to ensure love, peace and compassion amongst all.

However, today, festivals are a show of pomp and splendour where the family is kept as a prop and is not given the top priority. Sadly, many family relationships weaken as a result of being ignored and treated with disregard. If celebrated in the right spirit, festivals are a boon to the family because it enhances the beauty of all the relationships within the family; be it parents and children, grandparents and grandchildren or amongst siblings, cousins, and other relatives. The various branches of the family tree are strengthened by an attachment which comes from the heart.

In the festival called life, there is no better way to celebrate it than with the most divine beings in your life, your family. After all home is where the heart is, and heart is where the festivities begin.

- Riya, student intern, Parihara.com

Review of Parihara.com by a popular blogger

2010-06-27T12:38:00.003+05:30

Here is a review of our website www.parihara.com written by a popular blogger:

Web site review: Parihara.com
by Lucifer House Inc.
http://luciferhouseinc.blogspot.com/2010/06/web-site-review-pariharacom.html

Somnath Temple and its indomitable spirit

2010-06-24T18:57:00.002+05:30

The small and sleepy town of Somnath earns much of its claim to fame for housing one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The first of the 12 Jyotirlingas, Somnath Temple is naturally steeped in legend and held in high esteem by Hindus, especially those who worship Lord Shiva as their guardian God. Facing the wide open Arabian Sea, the Somnath Temple, is an imposing structure offering a spectacular sight to the beholders. At a distance of 79 km from Junagadh and 25 km from Chorwad, the present temple Kailash Mahameru Prasada, is built in the Chalukya style of architecture.

Uniquely, the temple is situated at such a place that there is no land between from Somnath seashore to Antarctica. Such an inscription is found on the ARROW-PILLAR erected on the sea-protection wall at the Somanth Temple! The Somanth Temple is a testimony of amazing mix of art and science and rich history. Dramatic in build, the splendid architecture, intricate stone carvings and breath-taking sculptures in the Somnath Temple, reflect the great artistic skill of the ‘Sompuras’, Gujarat’s master masons. The ‘Darshini’ gates of the Golden Temple in Amritsar are in fact the Somanth Temple gates that were brought back by the army of the mighty Jat-Sikh King Maharaja Ranjit Singh from Afghanistan. The seven storied structure of Somnath is 155 feet tall. The architecture consists of a sanctuary surrounded by a passageway and an adjoining mandapa both have open porches on three sides. The basement and the walls are covered with friezes and panels. The lofty tower over the sanctuary which rises to more than 50m is of the clustered type; the mandapa is roofed with a stone pyramid. Balcony seating flanks the principal entrance. Within elaborately carved columns support corbelled domed ceilings.

Legend goes that the Moon God - Chandra or Soma - was married to the 27 daughters of King Daksha. However he favoured only one queen Rohini, over his 26 other wives which enraged his father-in-law. Further, he became arrogant of his radiant beauty. So, Daksha cursed him that he'd lose his beauty and radiance and wane into darkness. A scared and repentant Soma then prayed to Lord Shiva for deliverance from this curse at the Jyotirlinga, after which he was blessed by Shiva to regain his radiance every time it was lost. So the Moon would wane, but then grow and shine again, in an eternal cycle. As Shiva 'protected' Soma, he came to be known as Somnath & the temple that the Moon originally built in respect and as a tribute to the benevolence of Shiva, the Somnath Temple.

The name ‘Somnath’ means ‘Lord or Protector of the Moon’. (‘Som or Soma’ = The moon, born from the eyes of Atri, son of Brahma; made the sovereign of plants and planets & ‘Nath’ = Protector, sovereign or father)

There are myths and facts about this small town of Somnath which will leave you dumbfounded. For instance, it's said that, Soma the moon God, built the first temple in gold, Ravana in silver, Krishna in sandal-wood and king Bhimdev of Gujarat in stone. Secondly Lord Krishna was said to be fatally wounded here by a poacher who took him to be a deer. This quaint town lies at the confluence of three rivers namely Saraswati, Hiran and Kapila.

A reference of the presiding deity of the temple, Lord Someshwar is available in the Rig Veda. It was also a sacred place in the days of the Mahabharat. It was called Bhairavashwar in Satya Yug, Shravanikeshwar in Treta Yug and Shrigaleshwar in Dwapur Yug. The Prabhas Khanda in Skand Purana giving description of the Linga of Somnath says that it is a Swayambhu Linga of great prowess, as bright as the disc of Sun, surrounded by a serpent, of the size of the egg of a hen, called Sparalinga and situated underground.

The first temple of Somnath can be said to have existed about the beginning of the Christian era. The second temple replaced the first one on the very site somewhere around 649 A.D. The shrine of Somnath has risen like the phoenix from its ruins a number of times. The present shrine is the seventh temple built on the original site.

In 725 A.D. Junayad, the Governor of Sind sent Arab armies and both Vallabhi, the capital of Saurashtra and Prabhas were destroyed in this onslaught. The second temple was probably destroyed during this attack. Nagabhatta II, of the later Pratihara line of Kanauj, constructed the third temple, a large structure of red sandstone sometime in 815 A.D.

Zeal for Islam was the dominant role of the tenth-century Turks, as of most new converts. The great missionary creed of Mohammed, which to the Arabs and Persians had become a familiar matter of routine, was a source of fiery inspiration to the untutored men of the steppes. To spread the faith by conquest doubled their natural zest for battle and endowed them with the devoted valour of martyrs.

Lane Poole, author of Medieval India, has said that Mahommad of Ghazni, “who had vowed that every year should see him wage a holy war against the infidels of Hindustan” could not rest from his idol breaking campaign so long as the temple of Somnath remained inviolate. It was for this specific purpose that he, at the very close of his career, undertook his arduous march across the desert from Multan to Anhilwada on the coast, fighting as he went, until he saw at last the famous temple.

Mahmud Ghazni attacked this temple in 1026 A.D. and after a week-long resistance, captured it. When the soldiers scaled the walls with ladders all they found inside were defenseless worshippers. Fifty thousand devotees praying to the linga and weeping passionately with hands clasped were massacred in cold blood.

The Shiva Linga, adorned with gems and precious stones was broken and the temple burnt. After the battle, Mahmud and his troops are described as having carried away across the desert the equivalent of 6.5 tons of gold. The fragments of the idol were carried off to grace the conquerors’ palace and the temple gates were set up at Ghazni.

Mahmud was hailed throughout the Islamic world as a second Mohammed and his smashing of Somnath was lauded in the Sufi poetry of Attar, Sanai and Omar Khayyam. These poets equated Somnath with the temples to the pagan goddess Al-Manat destroyed by Mohammed and viewed its destruction as the 'will of Allah' and the 'enlightened march of Islam.' The sack of Somnath made Mahmud of Ghazni a champion of the faith in the eyes of every Muslim.

Minhaj-as-Siraj tells us how Mahmud became widely known for having destroyed as many as thousand temples, and of his great feat in destroying the temple of Somnath and carrying off its idol, which he asserts was broken into four parts. One part he deposited in the Jami Masjid of Ghazni, one he placed at the entrance of the royal palace, the third he sent to Mecca, and the fourth to Medina.

The fourth temple was built by King Bhoja Parmar of Malwa and Bhima Chalukya of Anhilwada Patan during 1024-1042 A.D.

In 1169 A.D. the fifth temple, along with its integrated complex rose again during the reign of Kumarapala, the Chalukya King of Anhilwada Patan, Pasupat Acharya Bhava Brahaspati being the head of the shrine. Chalukya King Bhimadeva II added Megalanad Mandap in 1216 A.D. In 1287 A.D. further additions were made to the temple by Pasupat Acharya Tripurantaka under Sarang Deva Vaghela, King of Gujarat.

Then came the invasion of Allauddin Khilji's general Alaf Khan, who captured and once again destroyed the temple and idol in 1296 A.D. According to Taj-ul-Ma'sir of Hasan Nizami, Raja Karan of Gujarat was defeated and forced to flee, "fifty thousand infidels were dispatched to hell by the sword" and "more than twenty thousand slaves, and cattle beyond all calculation fell into the hands of the victors".

This fifth destroyed temple was repaired by Mahipala Deva, the Chudasama king of Saurashtra in 1308 A.D. and the Linga was installed by his son Khengar sometime between 1326 and 1351 A.D.

In 1375 A.D., the temple was once again destroyed by Muzaffar Shah I, the Sultan of Gujarat. About 1400 A.D. it was reconstructed by the local public.

In the year 1451 A.D. Mahmud Begda became the Sultan of Gujarat. In few years he became very powerful and after continuously attacking the Hindu rulers of Junagadh for five years, he finally defeated them in 1469 A.D. and the temple once again faced destruction. The idol was removed from the temple and the temple was desecrated. The temples in the entire state were demolished and Hindus were forcefully converted to Islam.

In 1560 A.D., possibly after Akbar's conquest of Somnath, extensive repairs and renovation of the temple was carried out. During Akbar's reign the temple remained unmolested.

Thus, the Hindus rebuilt the temple several times, but the Muslims destroyed it again. The temple was last destroyed by the Mughal tyrant, Aurangzeb. In 1701 A.D. he ordered Prince Mohammed Azam, the Viceroy of Gujarat, to destroy the temple of Somnath. Aurangzeb, as history records, was a brutal ruler who left a trail of genocide and destruction, mainly aimed at converting Hindus. Aurangzeb built a mosque on the site of the Somnath temple, using some columns from the temple, whose Hindu sculptural motifs remained visible.

Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore built the temple again in 1783 at a site adjacent to the ruined temple.

Somnath, thus, withstood the shocks of time and the attacks of the destroyers. Aged, infirm, desecrated it stood up once again when Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Deputy Prime Minister of India, rescued it from neglect and pledged on November 13, 1947 for its reconstruction. Mahatma Gandhi also approved of the retaking of Somnath but did not live to see it happen. Bhoomi-Khana for the Garbha-Grih was performed by Shri U.N. Dhebar on April 8, 1950 and Maharaja Jamsaheb Digwijay Singhji laid the foundation stone on May 8, 1950. The Linga Pratishtha ceremony was performed by the first President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad on May 11, 1951. On December 1, 1995 the President of India, Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma, performed the Kalash Pratishtha of the temple's Nritya Mandap and dedicated the temple to the nation.

"By rising from its ashes again, this temple of Somnath will proclaim to the world that no man and no power in the world can destroy that for which people have boundless faith and love in their hearts... Today, our attempt is not to rectify history. Our only aim is to proclaim anew our attachment to the faith, convictions and to the values on which our religion has rested since immemorial ages."

- Dr. Rajendra Prasad

- Posted by Anupam Mujumdar, student intern, Parihara.com

Nature and Religion

2010-06-19T14:33:00.000+05:30

Nature, with all its beauty and grandness is God’s greatest gift to mankind. And over the years, humans have treated nature with God-like fervour and devotion. The care and affection with which nature has provided for human prosperity and richness is the main reason for nature to be regarded with so much respect and adoration.

The peace and tranquillity experienced, when one is in nature’s loving arms, is priceless. In today’s fast paced world, the soothing effect that nature can bring to a stressed out mind is beyond words. The majestic aura of the snow-capped mountains, the splendour of the sea, or a cool breeze...all these natural wonders have the same captivating charm to hold us spell-bound. Yet, once we are past the beauty, then the mind is free to relax and think in depth and furrow into the greater truths about the cosmos. And the beauty of this is that these thoughts come effortlessly and powerfully when one is amidst nature. The mind is attuned to contemplate on greater truths because nature itself reflects a replica of Heaven or Paradise of the divine.

Since time immemorial, nature has occupied an important role in religion. Natural substances like flowers, beads, herbs etc are used in religious practices and rituals in many parts of the world. And it is this very respect associated with nature that has made it indispensable in our traditions and values. Indians have always regarded nature as Prithvi, the Goddess of Earth. Prithvi is regarded as the Hindu earth and also as mother goddess. According to Indian tradition, she is the very embodiment of the Earth, the planet that creates, sustains and nurtures life. To a human being, Prithvi is its mother; being Prithvi tatva, the element earth, out of the five constituent elements in Indian tradition (i.e. Air, Water, Wind, Fire, Earth). Prithvi is also referred to as Dhara, Dharti, and Dhrithri (meaning that which holds everything).In Indian mythology; she is honoured as Prithvi Devi, one of two wives of Lord Vishnu. His other wife is Lakshmi. Prithvi is another form of Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth. Another name for Prithvi is Bhumi or Bhudevi. Bhumi is the divine wife of Varaha, an incarnation (avatar) of Lord Vishnu. It is believed, according to Hindu mythology, the divine saint Andal is a form of her. Bhumi Devi is also believed to be one of the two forms of Lakshmi. The other is Sridevi, who remains with Narayana. Bhudevi is the Goddess of Earth, and the fertility form of Lakshmi. Thus, Indians have long honoured Nature by associating her with prosperity, growth and richness.

Various plants have been used in many Indian households for religious rituals and many plants are embedded deep in Indian mythology. The plant Tulsi has deep roots in Indian traditions and folklore. Many Hindus have Tulsi plants growing in front of or near their home, often in special Tulsi pots. These pots are given the most important place of respect and religious worship in the house. Tulsi, which is Sanskrit for "the incomparable one", is worshiped throughout India, and is often regarded as a consort of Lord Vishnu in the form of Mahalakshmi. There are two types of Tulsi worshiped by Hindus—Rama Tulsi having light green leaves and larger in size; Krishna Tulsi having dark green leaves and is important for the worship of Vishnu. In Varanasi, it is also frequently grown next to Vishnu temples. The ritual lighting of lamps each evening during the month of Kartika includes the worship of the Tulsi plant, which is considered auspicious for the home. In the ceremony of Tulsi Vivaha, Tulsi is ceremonially married to Vishnu annually on the twelfth of the month of Kartika. This day is considered inauspicious for weddings and other rituals, and so the day inaugurates the annual marriage season in India. Devotees of Lord Vishnu especially follow the daily worship of Tulsi during Kartika and traditionally use japmalas made from Tulsi stems or roots, which are an important symbol of initiation (since they considered as auspicious for the wearer and believed to put them under the protection of Vishnu or Krishna).

The ancient tribal community of the Todas in the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu in India has followed for years the simple principle of living in harmony with nature with sincere reverence. They worship their dairy-buffaloes and also various trees. Despite being situated in remote and heavily depended on forests for food and livelihood; it is surprising to observe that the members of this community are vegetarians and do not eat meat, eggs which can hatch ( fertilised eggs) and fish but some villages eat fish.

Certain flowers are used especially for religious worship. Seeds of the lotus are used in the worship of Goddess Lakshmi .Goddess Saraswati is seen standing on a lily in her divine form. Many Gods and Goddesses in Hindu mythology have animals as their means of transport (for example-mouse for Lord Ganesha, Garuda for Lord Vishnu etc.). Indian myths, traditions and religious rituals are full of examples of utmost devotion and worship of nature. This can be found from the carvings and engraving on temples and historical monuments across the country.

The era that we live in, treats nature with so much tyranny that the pain and agony of the earth seeps through the soil into our very souls. Humans no longer regard nature as a divine being and instead, believe in total conquest of her gifts and resources. The cry of nature cannot and will not evade anyone and mankind, beware! The fury of someone as pure and divine need not be told...It will come and when it does...death and destruction will follow. So let us bestow respect and glory to nature and dwell in the aura and tranquillity which she always gave us...

- Riya, student intern, Parihara.com

A Fair of Faith: The Kumbh Mela

2010-06-14T10:41:00.001+05:30

The largest pilgrimage on earth: the Kumbh Mela, is the one national event of utmost faith where love, satsang, knowledge and grace is distributed to all without discrimination.

Mahatma Gandhi in his autobiography wrote of this mega event – “I have never tried to seek holiness or divinity as a pilgrim, but 1.7 million people cannot be hypocrites”

Mela is a meeting/fair; Kumbh is the Sanskrit word for ‘pitcher/pot’. In Indian astrology, it is the zodiac sign for Aquarius under which this extraordinary riverside festival is celebrated.

As the Hindu myth goes, the “Kumbh” containing the nectar of immortality - which appeared after Samudra Manthan (churning of the primordial ocean of milk) caused a long fight between the Gods and demons for its possession. During the course of this battle, Lord Vishnu flew away with the “Kumbh” spilling few drops of the elixir at four different places – the sights for celebration of this mammoth fair. The dates and timings of the mela at these sights is calculated in advance in accordance to a special combination of zodiacal position of the Sun, the Moon and Jupitar.

The antiquity of the mela is shrouded in mystery. The earliest references to it are found in texts dating 7th century AD.

The Maha Kumbh Mela is celebrated once every 144 years at Prayag/Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh at the confluence of the rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati (Sangam). The last Maha Kumbh was in 2001.

The Purna Kumbh Mela is organized every 12 years at Prayag, Haridwar (in Uttar Pradesh on the banks of river Ganga), Ujjain (in Madhya Pradesh on the banks of river Shipra) and Nashik (along river Godavari in Maharashtra). This year the Purna Kumbh was hosted in Haridwar.

The Ardha Kumbh Mela happens every 6 years at Haridwar and Prayag.

Millions of pilgrims from

India

and abroad visit the Kumbh Mela in a spectacular display of faith. Traditionally it is known as the mela of the acetics and sadhus.

The significant ritual of this festival is the bathing at the banks of the holy rivers. This is considered to be an endeavor of great merit: cleansing both body and spirit. Although the main bathing dates differ from year-to-year, the important bathing days are :-

1. 14 January/Makarsankranti ~ the first main bathing day.

2. Mauni Amavasya ~ new moon of the saints.

3. Vasant Panchami ~ beginning of spring in North India.

4. Magha Purnima ~ full moon in the month of Magha.

5. Mahashivaratri ~ when Lord Shiva married Parvati.

6. Somvati Amavasya ~ no moon day exceptionally auspicious.

7. Rama Naumi ~ birth of Lord Rama.

8. Chaitya Purnima ~ worship of representative of God of Death.

9. Vaisakhi Amavasya ~ fast by Hindu married women for husband’s health and longevity.

10. Vaisakhi Purnima ~ Lord Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death.

At the most auspicious hour of the most auspicious day of the month long festival, thousands of Naga Sadhus (naked holy men) from various sects take the ceremonial bath. There is a colorful and magnificent procession of radiant saints on chariots and elephants at sunrise. Only after they are done, are the masses are allowed to take a dip. At this time, the sites of the mela are considered to be portals into immortality and ever-lasting union with God. One is said to be able to fully experience ‘Spiritual Divinity’.

- Anupam Mujumdar, student intern, Parihara.com

Pilgrimage to Prayag

2010-06-13T14:27:00.001+05:30

I have been living in Allahabad (earlier known as Prayag) for two decades now. It’s time now for me, to give you a rich account of my twenty years of travels through this beautiful city. Have you ever time-travelled before? Well it’s high time that you do now. Fasten your seatbelts properly, as I take you through an enthralling and most illuminating journey through time, the fourth dimension! where I’m going to tell you how Prayag grew through the ages, see for yourself the events that took place here splattered across its voluminous, rich and glorious history and finally come and witness it all live here at Prayag a.k.a Allahabad, the phenomenon where the awe-inspiring culture and heritage of the old world blends in perfect harmony with the scientific, modern and fast-paced development of the Allahabad of today.

Did you know?

The 82½ degrees East Longitude by which India calculates its Indian Standard Time passes through Zero Road, Allahabad.

The city of Allahabad is among the largest cities of Uttar Pradesh and situated at the confluence of three rivers - Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. the meeting point is known as Triveni and is especially sacred to Hindus. The earlier settlements of the Aryans were established in this city, then known as "Prayag" 'Prayagasya Praveshu Papam Nashwati Tatkashanam.' All sins are cleaned with entry in Prayag (the ancient name of modern time Allahabad). Prayag is one of the historic and mythological cities of India with a glorious past and present. It continues to enjoy the distinction of being a place of haunting and lasting memories. It is a city of mixed culture of Hindus, Muslims, Jains, and Christians.

Its sanctity is manifested by references to it in the Purans, the Ramayan and the Mahabharata. According to Hindu Mythology, Lord Brahma, the creator God of the Trinity, chose a land on earth (i.e. Prayag) to perform the 'Prakrista Yag', at the beginning of the creation and he also referred to it as the Tirth Raj or the King of all pilgrimage centers. As per the writings of 'Padam Puran' - "As the sun is amongst the moon and moon is amongst the stars, likewise 'Prayag is best amongst all places of pilgrimage'.

The bathing at Prayag is mentioned in Brahma Puran as "in the month of Magha at the bank of Ganga-Yamuna in Prayag bestows results of millions and millions of Ashvamedha Yajna". Prayag is the birth place of Som, Varuna and Prajapati. Prayag has been associated with mythological personalities in Brahman cal (Vedic) and Buddhist Literatures. It was the seat of the great sage Bhardwaj, Sage Durvasa and Sage Pannas. Sage Bhardwaj lived here circa 5000 B.C. and taught more than 10000 disciples. He was the greatest philosopher of ancient world.

The present Jhunsi area, close to Sangam, was the kingdom of Chandrabanshiya (lunar clan) King Pururava. Nearby Kaushambi bloomed to prosperity during Vatsa and Maurya Rule. The earliest monument of the antique Ashok Pillar with inscriptions of third century B.C. bears the inscriptions of his directions to his fellow rajas and praise of King Samudragupta. The Chinese traveller Huen Tsang in 643 B.C. found Prayag inhabited by many Hindus who regarded the place very Holy.

SANGAM

Around 7 Km from Civil Lines, overlooking the eastern ramparts of the fort, wide flood plains and muddy banks protrude towards the sacred Sangam. At the point at which the brown Ganges meets the greenish Yamuna, pandas (priests) perch on small platforms to perform puja and assist the devout in rituals and ablutions in the shallow waters. Beaches and ghats are littered with the shorn hair of pilgrims who come to offer 'pind' for their deceased parents. the sacred Sangam is the confluence of three of the holiest rivers in the Hindu Mythology ~ Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. At the Sangam, the waters of the Ganges and the Yamuna can be distinctly seen merging into one. It is during the Kumbh/Ardh Kumbh that the Sangam truly comes alive attracting the devout from all across the country. The holy Sangam is the site for the Annual Magha Mela/Ardh Kumbh/Kumbh Mela. Boats are available.

While there at Sangam I also gleaned some information on the World Famous Kumbh Mela.

KUMBH MELA

Hindus, traditionally regard river confluences as auspicious places, more so the Sangam at Allahabad, where the Yamuna and the Ganges meet the 'River ofEnlightenment', the mythical Saraswati. According to legend, Vishnu was carrying a kumbh (pot) of amrit (nectar), when a scuffle broke out between the Gods, and four drops were spilled. they fell on the earth at the four tirthas of Prayag, Haridwar, Nasik and Ujjain (tirtha means "ford of a river", a place where a devout can cross from this finite world into divine celestial realms). the event is commemorated every three years by the Kumbh Mela , held at each tirtha in turn; the Sangam is known as Tirtharaja, the "King of Tirthas", and its Mela, once every twelve years, is the greatest and holiest of all.

PATALPURI TEMPLE

Of still great interest, apart from the other monuments hitherto described, is the celebrated Patalpuri temple, the only relic of ancient Prayag and one of the most ancient Hindu buildings in the United Province. According to Huien Tsang, "in the city there is a Deva temple, beautifully ornamented and celebrated for its numerous miracles... And if in this temple, a person is able to condemn life so as to put an end to himself, then he is born unto eternal happiness in heaven." The epic Ramayana also mentions that Rama and Seeta, while on their way to Chitrakoot, visited this temple. the temple is unique in being an oblong hall, 491/2 feet in width, from north to south, and 84 feet in length from east to west. The roof is made from grey slabs resting on the cruciform capitals of the early Hindu pillars.

AKSHAYA VAT

An ancient looking Banyan tree, situated in the A E & S sub depot of the fort, is of immense historical and religious importance, primarily, due to its revered place in the Hindu religion and the immense importance given by historians of all ages depicting the sacred role it assumed in the system of religious belief of the Hindus. The famous Chinese traveler Huien Tsang, visited Prayag in 644 AD. He writes: before the hall of temple, is the reservoir, it is said that the construction of the fort obliterated the Kanya Kup or the deep reservoir.

Thus, the age of the tree, despite its mentioning by many writers, the Puranas and Ramayan, as yet, remains devoid of scientific and historical antecedents. It can reasonably be concluded from the historical stages that the tree has been shifting its location, scientifically proved that the Banyan species is known for extending its roots. One such root has damaged the outer wall of the fort near the corner of fortress wall which meets the basin of Ganges. Persons of all academic stature visiting the fort and desirous to probe into the actual life of the tree, may accept the probe as a challenge !

HANUMAN MANDIR

Near the Sangam, this temple is unique in North India, for its supine image of Hanuman. Here the big idol of Lord Hanuman is seen in a reclining posture. When the Ganga is in spate, this temple gets submerged.

One of the most happening places in Uttar Pradesh and North India, Allahabad is the confluence where the old world charm meets the new world growth.

- Anupam Mujumdar, Student Intern, Parihara.com

Significance of Fasting in world religions

2010-06-09T22:17:00.002+05:30

If prayer is the essence of the soul, then fasting is an essential part of prayer and thus, it becomes part of the soul. Of all the searches for the supreme God, fasting has been one of the most common means to God. Yet, the fact that fasting can bring about control over one’s senses cannot be ignored. This very truth distinguishes between human and the divine. When a person can conquer his or her craving for food then the first step to God has been taken.

Prayer when combined with fasting is defined as voluntarily going without food in order to focus on prayer and thus build an association with God. Fasting disciplines the body and gives the power to think and rule over one’s own senses. The practice of abstaining from food has been followed for centuries by people of different faiths subject to different rules.

Methods of fasting also differ vastly. The different forms include a vast range. If followed strictly, in certain forms of observing a fast, the person fasting does not take any food or water from the previous day's sunset until the following day's sunrise. Fasting can also include limiting oneself to one meal during the day or abstaining from eating certain food types or eating only particular food types. In some cases, if the fasting person is non-vegetarian, he/she is to abstain from consuming any animal products (i.e., meat, eggs) on the day of fasting.

In Hinduism, fasting is a very important part of the traditional rituals and customs. They observe fast during certain days of the month such as Ekadasi, Purnima. Particular days of the week are also set aside for fasting depending on personal devotion and deity of choice. For example, devotees of Shiva tend to fast on Mondays, while devotees of Vishnu tend to fast on Fridays or Saturdays. Fasting on Thursdays is very common among the North-Indian Hindus. Devotees often take fasts during religious festivals. Most people conduct a fast on Maha Shivratri which includes consuming fruit and milk, or during the nine days of Navaratri. In some parts of India, married women undertake a fast during the occasion of Karwa chauth for the well-being, richness, and long life of their husbands. The fast is broken after the wife looks at the moon through a sieve.

Fasting is also practiced in a number of churches and Christian denominations. Many denominations do not emphasize on the observance of a fast but however, it is up to the individual to decide for himself or herself. The Lenten fast observed in the Catholics and the Eastern Orthodox Church is a forty-day partial fast to commemorate the fast observed by Christ during his temptation in the desert. This is involves abstinence from meat .Many followers also abstain from milk and egg. The members of the Catholic Church and certain other denominations in Kerala also observe a similar fast during the Nativity period before Christmas to prepare for the arrival of the new born Christ as a symbol of hope and peace.

In Islam, fasting for almost one month is an obligatory custom during the holy month of Ramadan. This is done from fajr (dawn), until the Maghrib (dusk). During this period they are prohibited from eating, drinking (including water). Fasting in the month of Ramadan is one of the fundamental traditions of Islam, and thus one of the most important practices in Islamic worship. The main aim of fasting, whether during Ramadan or other times, is to draw one closer to Allah by abandoning body pleasures, such as food and drink. Thus, it enhances the sincerity of their devotion and stands testimony to their firm and strong faith in God.

Jains also observe fasts. One type of the fast is called Chauvihar Upwas, in which no food or water should be consumed until sunrise the next day. Another form is called Tiviha Upwas, in which no food may be consumed, but boiled water is allowed. The main goal of fasting in Jainism is to achieve complete Non-Violence and maintain peace and tranquillity during that phase.

Buddhist monks and nuns following the Vinaya rules commonly abstain from eating every day after the noon meal. This is not considered a fast but rather a disciplined procedure helping in meditation and good health.

Fasting is common to many religions. Despite the different styles of adopting it, the practice of observing a fast has been followed by millions. The intentions can be varied; from awaiting an occasion with religious fervour or to hope for the better future of near and dear ones or to carry an obligation in honour of the almighty God. But one has to always be comfortable while undergoing a fast. It should be done happily with ultimate devotion and dedication. If a medical complication should arise then common sense should prevail .This is because if God dwells in everyone’s body then dedicating oneself to God at the cost of one’s own body implies that the aim of the fast remains unachieved. Physically, fasting helps the person to be in better control of his or her senses and thus, he or she becomes more patient and self-disciplined. The denial of basic essentials to the body for a definite period of time cleanses the body and prepares it to face dire situations. But, spiritually, fasting is believed to help prevent many sins and is a shield with which protects the person from (hell).Fasting also makes our connection stronger to God.

Though fasting can be put to an end, the real thirst of the soul for the supreme One cannot be quenched. And the search for the divine One will continue, so the fast of the soul can never end.

- Riya, student intern, Parihara.com

Kongu Tirupathi - The Tirupathi of Kongu Region

2010-06-06T18:30:00.003+05:30

Kongu Tirupathi is the temple on the top of Naina hills, dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara. Venkateshwara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu is considered as the killer of sins of people and is considered as his supreme incarnation.

This temple is a model of the one at tirupathi and is located along the eastern banks of River Cauvery in Erode district formerly a part of Kongu nadu and hence its name Kongu tirupathi or Kongu nattu tirupathi.

It is believed to be the 12 th of the 108 Divya desams. Every vaishnavite aspires to visit each of these Divya desams, of which 105 are in India and 1 in Nepal. The other two are believed to be in the non-physical world which a devotee hopes to visit after he leaves his mortal form.

In Kongu nattu tirupathi, Lord Hanuman takes the form of Anjali Anjaneya with his form, having three eyes and ten arms. It is a custom here to pray lord Venkateshwara only after offering prayers to lord Anjaneya present.

Every tamil new year, called the Chitterai thiru naal (also called as Bramhotsav) is celebrated with grandeur when thousands of worshippers throng to offer their prayers to the supreme deity, lord Venkateshwara.

Also, every saturday of the tamil month Puratasi (roughly falls in the month of September-October) is also considered auspicious and a lot of devotees turn up to gain a sight of the lord in his grand form.

- Arvind, student intern, Parihara.com

The power of Prayer

2010-05-31T13:47:00.003+05:30

Prayer, the ultimate conversation with the supreme One. Many a times we presume it to be a monologue but forget that the listener on the other end is the creator, preserver, destroyer, saviour, and guardian of all the conversations you ever had.

During desperate times your final comfort has always been that picture the majestic, triumphant God; the bestower of goodness. When you fall sick, many believe that the best cure after medicine (and probably before) is prayer. The firm belief that the Almighty One, not someone, is out there watching over every step of yours is of unshakeable intensity. Prayer is the essence of the soul. It is the source of ultimate power and relief. No other method can be substituted instead of prayer because it brings the mind into direct connection with the pulse of life, and fortifies the sick person, by giving the necessary support to an upset mind. And despite the advancement made in the fields of science, technology and medicine, the relief provided by prayer is too pronounced to be ignored. And incredible.

Though the initial glance into this thought pretends to ignore rationality, the emotional support that a prayer gives to a sick person cannot be overlooked. And the belief that God will fight your battle along with you eventually making you victorious is relieving and comforting to even the most pessimistic person around. Many believe that the psychological benefits of prayer may help decrease tension and anxiety, encourage a more optimistic outlook, and intensify the will to live in a sick person. It has also been found that if a person knows that he or she has a lot of people praying for him or her; it provides a very positive and pleasant feeling to the person, thus raising his or her morale, thus leading to recovery. Studies have shown that prayer can reduce physical strain, regardless of the god(s) the devotee prays to, and this may be true due to many reasons. In fact, prayer can help in recovery, not due to divine impact but due to psychological and physical effects on the human mind and body.

The importance of prayer in healing diseases can be understood by the practices followed in various religions. The most popular one is that of undertaking vows to make pilgrimages to divine shrines and pilgrim centres. Many devotees tonsure their heads, walk barefoot along the arduous route to the pilgrim centres, offer cash and kind, pray to various saints etc. In India, the Hindu community offers various prayers for recovery from diseases by conducting pujas and chanting mantras. In Islam, Sufis use knowledge of prayers and specific verses of the Quran in healing. This is also called as the science of Tawidh (Taweez). Christians too, undertake pilgrimages and pray to patron saints.

However, in a more sensible approach, prayer works well along with the most suitable medical treatment. Medical aid should not be ignored while resorting to prayer and neither should prayer be given a backseat in treating a diseased person. Prayer and medical science when blend together, make a wonderful combination that can provide complete healing to the sick. This healing is not just restricted to physical terms but also include emotional and spiritual aspects. The person develops an optimistic approach to life and accepts its beauty. The true spirit of the prayer must not be lost while treating the sick. It should always provide solace and the patient has to be comfortable.

Yet, the biggest strength in a prayer is that one can open his or her heart out to God. All sorrows and joys of the person are submitted to God with the belief that he or she will be cured. When this confidence is combined with medical treatments the morale of the patient is uplifted and recovery begins not from the doctor but from the patient’s positive approach to life. Once the patient is cured, prayer maintains an aura of vigour and verve.

The strong faith in the guarding strength of God can not only provide relief, but it can also cure...A certain belief, that, God creates a protective fortress around you can actually initiate healing, which, in a way, can be considered spiritual and yet the results can be physical, emotional and most importantly, psychological. With cure begins positivity and this positivity enhances the mindset of the patient with hopes for a healthy and glowing future.

Healing may come from the mind, but only through God.

- Riya, Student Intern, Parihara.com

Vaikaasi Visaakam

2010-05-28T20:02:00.004+05:30

The Pournami day of the Tamil month Vaikasi (May-June) coming under the Visaakam star is called Vaikaasi Visaakam.What's special about this day?

It's the day Lord Subrahmanya, or Murugan as He's called by the Tamils, incarnated.The story of His birth from the fiery third eye of Lord Shiva is well known.

This 10 day festival involves the worship of the Lord with prayers and pilgrimages to temples, especially the 6 divine abodes-"ArupadaiVeedu" in Tamil. On Vaikaasi Visaakam day, Valli Kalyaanam, the celestial wedding of Murugan to Valli, takes place with fanfare.

During this festive season, devotees satisy the common man's thirst by erecting stalls providing buttermilk, as this is a very hot period of the year. Charitable activities are undertaken, as helping others is a good way to elavate oneself spiritually by cleansing the mind. Sundal (Cooked
pulses) and SakkaraiPongal (sweet cooked rice) are offered as Neividyam and distributed among the people.

This is Lord Murugan from the Thirupparankundram temple, on the horse, coming to grace devotees at the workplace of the writer. Sorry, Lord Murugan who's seated on the horse is not visible properly in this poor cell phone camera photo. :)

This festival is also very special to the Vaishnavas.To the south of Madurai, is a place called Aazhvaar Thirunagari near Thirunelveli. This is the birthplace of one of the most important
Vaishnava saints, Nammaazhvar, and Vaikaasi Visaakam is His birthday. This is also celebrated as a 10 day festival, and the Garuda Sevai on the fifth day, in which the Lord MahaVishnu comes on His divine vehicle Garuda, is a spectacle indeed.

Akshaya Tritiya and gold investments

2010-05-22T15:28:00.003+05:30

Akshaya Tritiya is one of the most auspicious days according to the Hindu calendar. It is believed from the puranas that a good deed done on Akshaya Tritiya earns merit (punyam) for life. The religious merit that is obtained by good deeds on this day is considered inexhaustible. Starting new ventures and buying valuables on this day are considered lucky and are believed to bring success and wealth.

These days, purchase of gold jewellery has become synonymous with akshaya tritya, especially the gold coins with the picture of goddess Lakshmi-inscribed on it. The very meaning of the word "Akshaya" which in Sanskrit means undiminishing encourages people to buy more wealth on this day.

But the harsh truth about this festival is, "A few years back only a few devout Hindus were aware of the festival and performed pujas, chose the day to conduct marriages and begin new ventures. Most others did not even bother about Akshaya Tritiya. In fact, very few people knew about it."

The marketing managers of jewellery shops did a very good job in making the festival popular and earning themselves a fortune. In India, nothing sells like spirituality. The festival became widely celebrated in the recent years and more and more people started buying gold with a little advertisement and offers.

More and more investors as well are also turning to buying gold on this day. In their words, "With the volatile markets, gold is the best investment currently on the offer". This is a favourable trend, say the economic gurus. More and more house holds are stocking considerable amount of gold. A famous investment analyst, Dr. Marc Faber commented that gold is a safe haven for investors considering high oil prices and unpredictable economic policies of various countries. Akshaya tritya just proves to be another reason for people chosing this particular day for investing in gold.

Every year there is a clear spike in the sales of gold on this particular day, infact a manifold increase, say the gold merchants.

Vadivu, a housewife, had this to say when I asked her about Akshaya Tritya, "I've a daughter who'll get married in a couple years time and i should get a good collection of jewellery for her by the time of her wedding. The offers that are available on the purchase of gold on this day is more encouraging to buy jewels than the actual spiritual significance of the day."

It might not pleasing to hear but the hard truth is the fact that economic significance of the day matters more than the spiritual significance for most people in the recent times but nevertheless buying gold is proving to be a favorable scenario for the economic situation of the country as a whole.

- Arvind, Student Intern, Parihara.com

Swami Chinmayananda on the Mahabhaarata

2010-05-20T15:02:00.001+05:30

In simple words, the Mahabhaarata was a fight between good and evil, namely the Pandavas and the Kauravas. The Pandavas were only five in number while the Kauravas were a hundred men. What does this signify?

It means that in our daily life, we face problems, too many of them, and our life itself is a Kurukshetra. In this, the good forces are few and the bad ones dominate. What an apt analogy!
But, the confused, despondent Arjuna is awakened by the Saarathy, and the Pandavas go on to rout the Kauravas. That is, shedding one’s ignorance and strengthening the resolve to defend Dharma are the only things that are needed to defeat even a seemingly monstrous opposition.

Everyone must have seen the beautiful picture of Arjuna in the chariot driven by Krishna, with the flag of Hanuman, in the Kurukshetra battlefield. Here, the horses pulling the chariot represent the sense organs. Each of our sense organs may attract us to different pleasures in life, but without control of our senses, we will reach nowhere. This control is symbolized by the reins held by the PaarthaSaarathy, which coordinate the movement of the horses. This is the real meaning of self control. Abstinence does not mean running away to the Himalayas when you’re tired with the problems of life. Instead, it means shaping your thoughts appropriately and channeling your energies in search of the purpose of life. That’s why the Geeta itself was not preached in a serene environment in the mountains. The choice of the grueling battle scene to give such a glorious lesson itself says that the message of the Geeta is not just for retired old men and women who have nothing else to do, but one that needs to be understood and practiced during one’s productive lifetime. Postponing the study of scriptures for old age is like thinking of reading a washing machine manual after it has become old, rusted and spoilt!
Om Namo Bhagavate Vaasudevaaya!

Source: Geeta Lectures given by Swamini Vimalananda and Swami Tejomayananda of the Chinmaya Mission, which the writer was fortunate to attend.

Spiritual Healing: Namatraya Mantra for Overcoming All Diseases

2010-05-20T14:48:00.003+05:30

Our Shastras have provided us with many simple yet effective remedies to the myriads of problems we face in life. Good health is regarded highly by every living being and ill health or disease is attributed to certain karmic residues of our past births.

The scriptures prescribe various methods of spiritual healing for every disease - offering poojas and homams, mantra chanting and yantras energized with appropriate mantras are some of the most common pariharams.

Mantra chanting is the easiest of these remedies since it involves neither any expenditure nor special effort or preparation to practice it. Mantra can be chanted throughout the year in all circumstances, provided good hygiene is observed in food and other habits.

The Agni Purana mentions a powerful mantra which is supposed to be an effective cure for all diseases. The God of Fire, Agni gives an assurance that when this mantra is chanted with faith and devotion, one can overcome all diseases. This mnatra is called as the 'Nama Traya Mantra' which means the mantra of three names. The mantra is:

Achyuta Ananta Govinda

अच्युत अनंत गोविन्द

The mantra can be expanded and chanted also as:

Om Achyutaya Namaha

ॐ अच्युताय नमः

Om Anantaya Namaha

ॐ अनंताय नमः

Om Govindaya Namaha

ॐ गोविन्दाय नमः

Chant this mantra 108 times every day and you can experience its efficacy for yourself. When you suffer an injury or a sprain, you can chant this mantra by placing your right palm on the affected area and chant this mantra as many times as you can. You will surely be relieved from the pain and also gain a sense of solace. The mantra can also be applied to strengthen the will power of weak patients. Chant this mantra while affectionately carressing your hand over the head or spine of the person and you will see a remarkable improvement in the patient's psychological condition soon.

Let us make good use of this maha mantra described in the Agni Purana and reap its immense benefits in safeguarding our precious health.

How to name a child according to Vedic Astrology

2010-05-06T12:46:00.000+05:30

The naming ceremony, called Namakarana, is one of the most important and cherished occasions in the family. According to the rules prescribed in Gruhyasutras, the namakarana is usually done on the tenth or the twelfth day from the date of birth. Some shaastras prescribe giving two names to the child - one a secret name and the other which becomes the child's primary identifier.

Parents often ask about the rules for naming a child according to astrology. According to astrology, there are three ways of naming a child: a) According to the day on which the child was born b) According to the letters corresponding to the Janma Nakshatra of the child c) Letters corresponding to the Lagna of the child's horoscope. (To know more about janma nakshatra, rashi and lagna, click here).

An auspicious name is said to act like a mantra since the sound will be repeated throughout the child's life. There is a story the Bhagavata about a fallen sadhaka called Ajamila who attains Moksha just by naming his child as 'Narayana' - since Ajamila was very attached to his son, he went on calling his name on his deathbed, thus unconsciously invoking the grace of Lord Narayana himself!

The crudest way is to name the child according to the day. The second method of naming the child according to the Janma Nakshatra or Janma Rashi is considered better. The names compatible with the Lagna are considered the best.

The list of letters corresponding to weekdays, nakshatras, rashis and lagnas will be posted on this blog soon.