Showing posts with label Coimbatore. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Coimbatore. Show all posts
[WHAT IS] Vaikuntha Ekadashi
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Vaishnavism (Worship of Vishnu) culture believes that ‘Vaikuntha Dwaram’ or ‘the gate to Lord's Inner Sanctum’ is opened on this day. The Margashirsha shukla paksha ekadashi in lunar calendar is known as a 'Mokshada Ekadashi'. Special prayers, yagnas, discourses and speeches are arranged at Vishnu temples across the world on this auspicious day.
According the to Vishnu Purana, fasting on Vaikuntha Ekadashi is equivalent to fasting on the remaining 23 Ekadashis of the (Hindu) year. However according to Vaishnava tradition fasting is mandatory on all Ekadashi of both Shukla paksha and Krishna paksha. Fasting on Ekadashi is considered holier than any other religious observation.
Vishnu opened the gate of Vaikuntham (his abode) for two demons in spite of their being against him. They also asked for the boon that whoever listens to their story and sees the image of Vishnu coming out of the door (called Dwar), called Vaikunth Dwar, will reach Vaikunth as well. Temples all over India make a door kind of structure on this day for devotees to walk through.
According to Padma Purana, the female energy of Vishnu slayed the demon Muran and protects the 'Devas'. This happened on the eleventh day of lunar month during the sun's journey in the Dhanurrashi or Dhanu Rashi. Impressed by the act, Vishnu names her as 'Ekadashi' and gives her the boon that those who worship 'Ekadashi' on the day of her victory over Muran would reach 'Vaikunth' (His abode).
Benefits - Vaikuntha Ekadashi is also known as Mukkoti Ekadashi. It is believed that Vaikuntha Dwaram or the gate of Lord's inner sanctum is opened on this day and devotees who observe fast on Vaikuntha Ekadashi attain salvation by going to Heaven.
Vaikuntha Ekadashi is very important day for Tirumala Venkateswara Temple at Tirupati and Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam. Other famous temples like Guruvayoor SriKrishna temple in Kerala, Rajagopalaswami temple, Mannargudi, etc have the special dwars for the devotees.
Vaikuntha Ekadashi is known as Swarga Vathil Ekadashi in Malayalam Calendar followed by people of Kerala.
Parana means breaking the fast. Ekadashi Parana is done after sunrise on next day of Ekadashi fast. It is necessary to do Parana within Dwadashi Tithi unless Dwadashi is over before sunrise. Not doing Parana within Dwadashi is similar to an offence.
At times Ekadashi fasting is suggested on two consecutive days. It is advised that Smartha with family should observe fasting on first day only. The alternate Ekadashi fasting, which is the second one, is suggested for Sanyasis, widows and for those who want Moksha. When alternate Ekadashi fasting is suggested for Smartha it coincides with Vaishnava Ekadashi fasting day.
Ekadashi fasting on both days is suggested for staunch devotees who seek for love and affection of Lord Vishnu.
Via: Facebook, Indian Life Ethics & Karmas's
[NOTE: The article "[WHAT IS] Vaikuntha Ekadashi]" appeared on the GSB Coimbatore Blog.
[DISCLAIMER: All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at anytime and without notice. The blog does not own any trademarks and trademarks are of their respective owners.]
Importance of Prasad
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The word ‘prasad’ means that which gives peace. During any form of worship, ritual or ceremony, Hindus offer some items of food to the Lord. Puja is done with Bael leaves, flowers, Tulasi (Basil plant), Vibhuti and these are given as Prasada from the Lord.
Prasada is that which gives peace. Prasada is the sacred food offering of the Lord. During Kirtans (Singing hymns), worship, Puja, Havan and Arati, the devotee offers sweet rice, fruits, jaggery, milk, coconut, plantain and such other articles to the Lord, according to his ability. After offering them to the Lord, they are shared between the members of the house or the Bhaktas (devotees) in a temple.
Water, flowers, rice, etc., are offered to the Lord in worship. This denotes that the Lord is pleased with even the smallest offering. What is wanted is the heart of the devotee. The Lord says in the Gita
Patram Pushpam Phalam Toyam Yo Me Bhaktya Prayacchati;
Tadaham Bhaktyupahritamasanami Prayatatmanah
Whoever offers a leaf, a flower, a fruit or even water with devotion, that I accept, offered as it is with a loving heart".
It is not necessary that one should offer gold, silver, and costly dress to the Lord. The devotee offers these according to his ability and position in life, thereby denoting that the whole wealth of the world belongs to the Lord. A rich man offers costly things to the Lord. He feeds the poor and serves the sick, seeing the Lord in his fellow-beings.
The mental Bhava (attitude) of the devotee offering Bhog to the Lord has very great effect. If an ardent devotee of the Lord offers anything to the Lord, that Prasada, if taken, would bring very great change even in the minds of atheists. The Grace of the Lord descends through Prasada.
If the food is offered with an yearning heart, sometimes, the Lord takes that food assuming a physical form. In other cases, the Lord enjoys the subtle essence of the food offered, and the food remains as it is in the shape of Prasada. While feeding Mahatmas and the poor people, that which is left behind is taken as Prasada. When a sacrifice is performed, the participants share the Prasada which bestows the blessings of the gods. When Dasaratha performed Putrakameshti (a sacrifice performed wishing for a son), he got a vessel full of sweetened rice that he gave to his queens, by taking which they became pregnant.
Charanamrit
A special form of prasad is the Charanamrit, which is the water or milk used to wash the feet of the idol, or of a holy saint. The Charanamrit has tremendous powers. It can change the outlook of a devotee entirely. It has the power to cure diseases. There are cases where it brought back life to the dead. Charanamrit is a tonic or medicine for misery, pain and anxiety. Intense faith is the all-important necessity for taking it. Without faith it brings very little benefit. The benefits of Prasada and Charanamrita are beyond description. They have the power to change entirely the outlook of a man’s life. Prasada destroys all pains and sins. It is an antidote for misery, pain and anxiety. Faith is the important factor in testing the accuracy of this statement. For faithless persons, it brings very little effect.
Those who are brought up in modern education and culture have forgotten all about the glory of Prasada. Many Western educated persons do not attach any importance to Prasada when they get it from Mahatmas. This is a serious mistake. Prasada is a great purifier. Live for a week in Vrindavana or Ayodhya or Varanasi or Pandharpur. You will realise the glory and the miraculous effects of Prasada. Many incurable diseases are cured. Many sincere aspirants get wonderful spiritual experiences from mere Prasada alone. Prasada is a panacea. Prasada is a spiritual elixir. Prasada is the Grace of the Lord. Prasada is a cure-all and an ideal pick-me-up. Prasada is an embodiment of Sakti. Prasada is Divinity in manifestation. Prasada energises, vivifies, invigorates and infuses devotion. It should be taken with great faith.
The prasad of the Lord is very sacred and purifying. If it is taken with faith and devotion, it brings miraculous results to the devotee.
While feeding Mahatmas, Sannyasins and the poor, that which is left over is also taken as prasad, because in feeding them, we feel that we are feeding God Himself.
When a ceremony is performed all the devotees should share the prasad and thus receive the blessings of the Deities. Prasad is extremely sacred. There is no restriction of any kind in taking prasad. Time, place or condition does not affect one. Prasad is all purifying.. Prasada is the most sacred object for a devotee. One should consider himself lucky to take the Prasada, and there is no restriction of any kind in taking Prasada. Prasada is all purifying.
Via: Srikant Rawas
[NOTE: The article "Importance of Prasad" first appeared on the GSB Coimbatore Blog.
[DISCLAIMER: All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at anytime and without notice. The blog does not own any trademarks and trademarks are of their respective owners.]
Shiva Lingam
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A lingam can be movable " Chalam" or unmovable " Achalam" or both movable and unmovable "Chalachalam". A lingam is a combination of a stem portion, which is the "Lingam" and a base or peetam called a "yoni". Of the stem 1/3 it's length is square, the second 1/3 is eight sides and the rest cylindrical. The square portion corresponds to "Brahma" the creative aspect of the absolute. The eight-sided figure corresponds to "Vishnu" the protective aspect of God and the cylindrical portion; the dissolution aspect of God corresponds to "Rudra". A combination of these is what is called a Shivalinga.
The Yoni peetam will consist of a circular lower and middle portion and a leaf shaped upper portion, into which the stem is erected. The Brahma portion lies in the ground. The Vishnu portion the yoni peetam and the Rudra portion above the peetam. In the Rudra portion a lotus bud formation with 3 lines is embossed and it forms the face. This is known as a Kriya_lingam and corresponds to a sculpted lingam. This has to be installed in temple; this is there for classed as an Achalaingam.
A naturally formed lingam or Swayambu lingam also falls under this category. Crystal, or ruby, or stone, rice, cooked rice, river sand, cow dung, butter, sandalwood paste, Rudraksham, flowers, Kusa grass, jaggery and flour can be worshiped and after worship, removed. These are known as "Kshanika" lingams. No proportions of size are requiring for these lingams.
Lingams made of metals such as gold, silver, copper, bronze, brass, lead, etc are known as "Lohaya" lingams. If they are of sandalwood, Ashoka, Devadharu, Ebony, Bilva etc the are known as "Tharuya" lingams.
Stone lingams are the suitable ones for temple worship.
They can be classed as
1. Swayambulingam
2. Daivatham
3. Ghanapam
4. Aasuram
5. Suram
6. Aarusham
7. Maanusham
8. Rakshasam
9. Bhaanam.
A Bhaanalingam is what is installed at the Sri Rajarajeswari peetam in RUSH New York. It is oblong cylindrical stone found naturally in the river called Narmada. The stones used in making a kriya lingam are classed as male, female & neutral stone. Stones will resonate if struck with the handle of the chisel in the lower scale of an octave.
The Lingam is to be made with this stone. The Yoni peetam with a female stone and the base made with a neutral stone. The scale of a temple Lingam will determine everything from the size of the chamber that houses it, to the Nandi, to size of steps, gopuram and ultimately the size the temple itself. Every dimension will happen to be a fraction or multiple of the Lingam.
Via: Indian Life Ethics & Karmas, Facebook
Navagraha Stotram [with Navagraha Gayathri]
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Thamo'urim Sarva Paapa Ganam - Pranathosmi Dhiwaakaram
Aswa Dhwajaaya Vidhmahe' - Padhma Hasthaaya Dheemahi
Thannas Soorya Pracho Dhayaath. - [ Sun - Soorya]
2. Dhadhi Sanka Thushaaraabham - Ksheero Dhaarnawa Sambhavam
Namaami Sasinam Somam - Sambhor Makuta Bhooshanam
Padhma Dhwajaaya Vidhmahe' - Hem Roopaaya Dheemahi
Thanno Soma Pracho Dhayaath. - [Moon - Chandran]
3. Dharanee Garbha Sambhootham - Vidhyuth Kaanthi Samaprabham
Kumaaram Sakthi Hasthancha - Mangalam Pranamaam Yaham
Veera Dhwajaaya Vidhmahe' - Vigna Hasthaaya Dheemahi
Thanno Bhowma Pracho Dhayaath - [Mars - Sevvai - Kujan]
4. Piryangu Kali Kaasyaamam - Roope'naa Prathimam Budham
Sowmyam Sowmya Gunopetham - Tham Bhudham Pranamaam Yaham
Gaja Dhwajaya Vidhmahe' - Suka Hasthaaya Dheemahi
Thanno Bhuda Pracho Dhayaath - [ Mercury - Bhuthan]
5. Dhe'vaanaancha Risheenaancha - Gurum Kaanchan Sannibham
Bhudhdhi Bhootham Thrilokesam - Thannamaami Bhruhaspathim
Vrusha Dhwajaaya Vidhmahe' - Gruni Hasthaaya Dheemahi
Thanno Guru Pracho Dhayaath - [Jupitar - Guru]
6. Hima Kundha M'runaalaabam - Dhaithyaanam Paramam Gurum
Sarva Saasthra Pravruththaaram - Bhaargavam Pranamaam Yaham
Aswa Dhwajaaya Vidhmahe' - Dhanur Hasthaaya Dheemahi
Thanno Sukra Pracho Dhayaath - [ Venus - Sukran]
7. Neelaanchana Samaabaasam - Raviputhram Yamaagrajam
Chaayaa Maarthaanda Sambhootham - Thannamaami Sanaicharam
Kaaka Dhwajaaya Vidhmahe' - Kadga Hasthaaya Dheemahi
Thanno Mandha Pracho Dhayaath - [ Saturn - Sani]
8. Ardha Kaayam Mahaaveeryam - Chandhraadhithya Vimardhanam
Simhikaagarba Sambhootham - Tham Raahum Prnamaamyaham
Naka Dhwajaaya Vidhmahe' - Padhma Hasthaaya Dheemahi
Thanno Rahu Pracho Dhayaath - [ Rahu ]
9. Palaasa Pushpa Sankaasam - Thaarakagraha Masthakam
Rowdhram Rowdhraathmakam Go'ram - Tham Kethum PranamaamYaham Aswa Dhwajaaya Vidhmahe' - Soola Hasthaaya Dheemahi
Thanno Kethu Pracho Dhayaath - [ Kethu ]
Via: Indian Life Ethics & Karmas, Facebook
The 14 Indras
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Via: Indian Life Ethics & Karmas, Facebook
Naraklok / Hell as per Hindu Mythology
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According to Padm Puraan, 5/32, 28 Koti (levels) of Narak are told - There are 28 grades of Narak below this Earth, they all are situated in a dense dark place below the 7th Tal (Paataal Lok):
(1) Ghoraa,(2) Sughoraa,
(3) Atighoraa,
(4) Mahaaghoraa,
(5) Ghor-roopaa,
(6) Taraltaaraa,
(7) Bhayaanakaa,
(8) Kaal Raatri,
(9) Bhayotkataa,
(10) Chandaa,
(11) Mahaachandaa,
(12) Chandkolaahalaa,
(13) Prachandaa,
(14) Narnaayikaa,
(15) Karaalaa,
(16) Vikaraalaa,
(17) Vajraa - there are three more (18, 19, and 20),
(21) Trikonaa,
(22) Panchkonaa,
(23) Sudeerghaa,
(24) Parivartulaa,
(25) Saptbhaumaa,
(26) Ashtbhaumaa,
(27) Deeptaa, and
(28) Maayaa.
Thus these 28 Koti of Narak are told.
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According to Agni Puraan, Ch 371, p 817, there are 28 Koti (levels) of Narak. Their names are given like this -
(1) Ghoraa,
(2) Sughoraa,
(3) Atighoraa,
(4) Mahaaghoraa,
(5) Ghor-roopaa,
(6) Taraltaaraa,
(7) Bhayaanakaa,
(8) Bhayotkataa,
(9) Kaalraatri,
(10) Mahaachandaa,
(11) Chandaa,
(12) Kolaahalaa,
(13) Prachandaa,
(14) Padmaa,
(15) narak Naayikaa,
(16) Padmaavatee,
(17) Bheeshanaa,
(18) B heemaa,
(19) Karaalikaa,
(20) Vikaraalaa,
(21) Mahaavajraa,
(22) Trikonaa,
(23) Panch Konikaa,
(24) Sudeerghaa,
(25) Vartulaa,
(26) Saptbhoomaa,
(27) Subhoomikaa, and
(28) Deept Maayaa
All of them have 5 Naayak each, and again they have 5 Naayak each. They are known as Raurav etc names. Thus they all are 145.
Taamistra,
Andh Taamistra,
Mahaaraurav,
Raurav,
Asipatra Van,
Loh Bhaar,
Kaalsootra Narak,
Mahaa Narak,
anjeevan,
Mahaa Veechi,
Tapan,
Samprataapan,
Sanghaat,
Kaakol,
Kudmal,
Poot Mrityuk,
Loh Shanku,
Rijeesh,
Pradhaan,
Shaalmali tree,
and Vaitaranee river etc all should be considered as Koti-Naayak.
They are very terrible.
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According to Naarad Puraan -
Yam told Bhageerath about sins, and the various Narak (Hells) where sinners have to suffer. The names of some such hells are:
(1) Tapan,
(2) Valukakumbha,
(3) Raurav,
(4) Mahaa-Raurav,
(5) Kumbheepaak,
(6) Niruchchvash,
(7) Kaal-Sootra,
(8) Pramardan,
(9) Bheeshan,
(10) Asipatravana,
(11) Laal Bhakshya,
(12) Himotkat,
(13) Mrishaavasthaa,
(14) Vasaa-koop,
(15) Shvabha-kshya,
(16) Mutrapana,
(17) Purishahrada,
(18) Tapta Shool,
(19) Tapta Shilaa,
(20) Shaalmali-drum,
(21) Shonit-Koop and
(22) Shonit-Bhojan
Via: Srikant Rawas, Email
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What are Solah Shringar for Indian Bride
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What is ‘Solah Shringar ?
A traditional Indian bride has to dress up using sixteen vital components of her beauty known as ‘Solah Shringar’.These objects of beauty are believed to be associated with the well being of her to-be husband. Having knowledge about accessories that comprises ‘Solah Shringar’ helps you understand their worth.
These are the following components:
- Bindi: It is considered to be a mark of identity for a married woman. Traditionally, it used to be round in shape and red in color. But nowadays, a large variety of Bindis in various shapes, sizes and shades are available in the market. Generally, a girl chooses her bindi that is matching to her wedding dress.
- Sindoor: Sindoor (vermillion) is a red colored powder that is applied on the centre parting of a bride. It has various religious and mythological connotations.
- Mangteeka : It is a hair accessory that is generally worn in the centre parting of the hair and it comes till fore head. It is generally made of gold/silver.
- Anjan: Anjan (kajal) is used to highlight the eyes of a bride. It is black in color and is applied on the edges of the upper and lower eyelids. It makes a bride’s face look beautiful and attractive.
- Nath: Nath (Nose Ring) is another important symbol of holiness associated with marriage. It is a big, round ring that can be worn in a pierced nose. It is also generally made up of gold/silver.
- Karn Phool: Karn phool (ear rings) is worn by a bride in both the ears. They are generally heavy and it further beautifies the bride’s face. Hand Accessories include the following components:
- Mehandi: Mehandi (henna) is prepared from the dried leaves of a tree. It is applied in the hands and foot of a bride. It stands as a symbol for the love between a wife and her husband. Mehandi applying ceremony forms an important part of an Indian wedding.
- Choodiyan: Choodiyan (bangles) are worn in both the hands of the bride in large number. They are made up of glass or metal. They are believed to fill colors in the life of the bride.
- Baajuband: Baajuband (armlet) is worn in the upper arms of a bride.
- Aarsi: Aarsi (finger rings) is worn in the fingers of a bride.
15. Itar: Itar (fragrance) is applied to a bride to create a soothing aroma around her.
16. Wedding Dress: Normally a ‘Saree’ or ‘Lehenga’ is worn as a wedding dress. They are usually of bright colors like red, maroon etc.
Other Accessories include the following components:
11. Haar: Haar (necklace) is worn around the neck of a bride.
12. Keshapasharachana: Keshapasharachana (hairstyle) is also as important as the face. Different types of flowers and other ornaments are used to adorn the hair of a bride.
13.Kamarband: Kamarband (waist band) is worn around the waist of a bride.
These are the sixteen signs of beauty to hold their importance.
Via: Srikant Rawas. E-mail.
Your Lucky Gem Stones
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Your Lucky Gem Stones
In today’s world in different advertisements we see that if our birth ascendant or moon sign is Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius or Pisces then your lucky stone is Red Coral, Diamond, Emerald, Pearl, Ruby, Emerald, Diamond, Red Coral, Yellow Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Yellow Sapphire respectively.
In Vedic Astrology both Birth Ascendant and Moon Sign has been given equal importance. In Vedic Astrology Lagna (1st house), Pancham (5th house) and Navam (9th house) all three houses are considered powerful Trikon’s. Trikonesh are considered to be owner of Good luck, Money, Higher designation, Kirti-fame, Achyuta. In simple words Lagna (1st house), Pancham (5th house) and Navam (9th house) are reasonable for enhancing one’s good luck..
As far as Lagna (1st house), Pancham (5th house) and Navam (9th house) are concerned, if all three houses are strong then one’s good luck will surely be on the high, but how much it will rise, depends upon various factors. We will come to it later.
It is noticeable that in an Astro Chart in every Lagna, Lagnesh( owner of 1st house), Panchamesh (owner of 5th house) and Navamesh (owner of 9th house) are always mutual friends, but other Bhavesh (Owner of a house) may or may not be friend of Lagnesh.
In other words there is nothing wrong in wearing gemstones of Lagnesh( owner of 1st house), Panchamesh (owner of 5th house) and Navamesh (owner of 9th house) to increase one’s good luck.
The details regarding different Gemstones according to above chart is as under:
As earlier said stones for each lagna as shown in above chart can be worn to increase luck aspect generally, but if we go deep some important factors should be kept in mind before going for above three prescribed gemstones for each lagna.a) If the owner of Trikonesh are placed in 6th, 8th or 12th house , then their gemstones should be avoided except for Lagna i.e If the Lagnesh (owner of 1st house) is placed in 6th, 8th or 12th their gemstone can be worn for lifetime.
The stones for Panchamesh (owner of 5th house) and Navamesh (owner of 9th house) if placed in 6th, 8th or 12th house can be worn only in certain conditions and for a limited period only.
b) Most astro practitioners know that with the knowledgeable use of gemstones of Trikonesh One’s Luck can be modified in a positive way, but very few have a knowledge about the fact that if the gemstones related to a house, where Lagnesh, Panchamesh and Navamesh are placed in the chart , are worn it can act as great stimulizer to enhance luck. That’s why they are called ‘Bhagya-Karta Gems’. But if ‘Bhagyakarta, planet is situated in 3rd, 6th, 8th or 12th house , then their gemstones should be avoided.
Legends Of Diwali/Deepawali, Diwali/Deepawali History
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There are many legends associated with the origin of the festival of lights. The fesitval is dedicated to various gods and goddesse. The basic ideology behid the celebration is the abundance of autumn harvest. The other legends associated with the deepavali festival are given below:
The Legends of Diwali
Goddess Lakshmi: It is said that during the churning of the ocean (samudra-manthan), Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth, was incarnated on the new moon day (amaavasyaa) of the Kartik month. Hence the association of Diwali with Goddess Lakshmi.
Vishnu Rescued Lakshmi: On this very day, Lord Vishnu rescued Lakshmi from the prison of King Bali. Lord Vishnu was in his fifth incarnation as Vaman-avtaara. This is another reason of worshiping Ma Larkshmi on Diwali.
Lakshmi, Kali, and Saraswati: Diwali also celebrates the gracious nature of the three goddesses. Dhanteras (two days before Diwali) is dedicated to Lakshmi. Her blessings are essential for a prosperous life. Kali-Chudash (the day before Diwali) is dedicated to Maha Kali. We seek Her strength, physical, mental and spiritual to maintain the wealth we have to lead a happy life. Diwali is also dedicated to goddess Saraswati. Knowledge is the ultimate wealth as it cannot be taken away from you and it often defeats brute force.
Krishna Killed Narakaasur: On the day before Diwali, Lord Krishna killed the demon king Narakaasur. He rescued 16,000 women from his prison. The celebration of this freedom went on for two days including the Diwali day as a victory festival.
The Return of the Pandavas: According to the great epic 'Mahabharata', when the Pandavas appeared from their 12 years of banishment, it was 'Kartik Amavashya'. The subjects who loved the Pandavas celebrated the day by lighting the earthen lamps.
The Victory of Rama: According to the epic 'Ramayana', it was the new moon day of Kartik when Lord Ram, Ma Sita, and Lakshman returned to Ayodhya after conquering Lanka and defeating Ravana. The citizens of Ayodhya decorated the entire city with the earthen lamps and brightened it like never before. The darkest night of the year was transformed to a glorious morning as Rama returned to his ancestral kingdom of Ayodhya.
Coronation of Vikramaditya: One of the greatest Hindu King Vikramaditya was coronated on the Diwali day.
Navaratri Nine Avatars - 9 Forms of Maa Durga
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First day of Navratri - Kalasha Sthapana (Kalasha Pooja) or Ghata Sthapana - Shailaputri Puja
Second day of Navratri - Preeti Dwitiya - Brahmacharini Puja
Third day of Navaratri - Chandrakanta pooja or Chandraghanta puja
Fourth day of Navaratri - Kushmanda pooja
Fifth day of Navratri - Skandamata Puja - Lalitha Panchami
Sixth day of Navratri - Katyayani Puja - Maha Shashti or Durga Shashti
Seventh day of Navratri - Kaalratri Pooja - Durga Saptami or Maha Sapthami
Eighth day of Navaratri - Maha Gauri Pooja - (Durgashtami Puja/Maha Ashtami/Veerashtami)
Ninth day of Navaratri - Siddhidatri Puja - (Mahanavami/Maharnavami or Durga Navami)
Tenth day of Navratri - Aparajitha Puja or Shami Pooja - Vijaya Dashami or Dasara
Nine Forms Of Maa Durga Devi:
Mata Shailputri - First Avatara of Maa Durga: Mata Shailputri is a daughter of ‘Parvata raju’ (mountain king) – Himalaya / Himvanth. She is the first among nine avatars of Durga and worshiped on the First day of Navaratri . In her previous birth, she was ‘Sati Bhavani Mata’, the daughter of King Daksha. Mata Shailputri, also known as Parvati got married with Lord Shiva. On the first day of Durga Navratri, Paravathi Devi she is worshipped. Mata Shailputri holds a ‘Trishul’, a weapon, in her right hand and a lotus in her left hand. She rides on bull. She has pleasant smile and blissful looks.
Mata Brahmacharini - Second Avatara of Maa Durga: Mata Brahmacharini is worshipped on second day of Navarathri. Brahmacharini is the goddess who performed ‘Tapa’ (penance) (Brahma – Tapa , Charini - Performer ). Mata personifies love and loyalty. She holds japa mala in her right hand and Kamandal in left hand. She is also called as ‘Uma’ and ‘Tapacharini’ and provides knowledge and wisdom to her devotees.
Mata Chandraghanta - Third Avatara of Maa Durga: Mata Chadraghanta is worshipped on the thrid day of Navratri. She is very bright and charming. Durga Maa is astride a tiger, displays a golden hue to HER skin, possesses ten hands and 3 eyes. Eight of HER hands display weapons while the remaining two are respectively in the mudras of gestures of boon giving and stopping harm. Chandra + Ghanta, meaning supreme bliss and knowledge, showering peace and serenity, like cool breeze in a moonlit night.
Mata Kushmanda - Fourth Avatara of Maa Durga: Mata Kushmanda is worshipped on the fourth day of Navrathri. . She shines brightly with a laughing face in all ten directions as the Sun. She controls whole Solar system. In her eight hands, she holds several types of weapons in six hands and a rosary and a lotus in remaining hands. She rides on Lion. She likes offerings of ‘Kumhde’, hence her name ‘Kushmanda’ has become popular.
Ma Skanda Mata - Fifth Avatara of Maa Durga: Skanda Mata is worshipped on the fifth Day of Navratri. She had a son ‘Skandaa and holds him on her lap . She has three eyes and four hands; two hands hold lotuses while the other 2 hands respectively display defending and granting gestures. Its said, by the mercy of Skandmata, even the idiot becomes an ocean of knowledge. The great and legendary Sanskrit Scholar Kalidas created his two masterpieces works “Raghuvansh Maha Kavya” and “Meghdoot” by the grace of Skandmata. Mata is considered as a deity of fire. She rides on Lion.
Mata Katyayani - Sixth Avatara of Maa Durga: Mata Katyayani is worshippedon the the Sixth Day of Navratri. Rishi Katyayan observed a penance to get Jaganmata as his daughter. She blessed him and took birth as his daughter on the bank of river Jamuna for getting Lord Krishna as a husband. She is considered as prime deity of Vraj mandal. Ma Katyayani has three eyes and four hands. . One left hand holds a weapon and the other a lotus She rides on Lion.
Mata Kalratri - Seventh Avatara of Maa Durga: Mata Kalaratri is worshipped on the Seventh Day of Navratri . She is dark and black like night, hence she is called as ‘Kalratri’. Her hairs are unlocked and has three eyes and four hands.while the remaining 2 are in the mudras of “giving” and “protecting”. HER vahana is a faithful donkey. The destroyer of darkness and ignorance. She spills out fire from her nostrils. She holds a sharp Sword in her right hand and blesses her devotees with her lower hand. As she blesses her devotees with prosperity, she is also called as ‘Shubhamkari’.
Mata Maha Gauri - Eighth Avatara of Maa Durga: Mata Maha Gowri is worshipped on the Eight Day of Navratri. Maha Gauri looks as white as moon and jasmine. She has three Eyes and four hands. Peace and compassion radiate from HER being and SHE is often dressed in a white or green sari. SHE holds a drum and a trident and is often depicted riding a bull . Her above left hand is in fearless pose and she holds ‘Trishul’ in her lower left hand. Her above right hand has tambourine and lower right hand is in blessing mudra.
Mata Siddhidatri - Ninth Avatara of Maa Durga: Mata Siddhidatri is the worshipped on the Ninth Day of Navratri. Maha Shakti gives all the eight siddhis - Anima, Mahima, Garima, Laghima, Prapti, Prakamya, Iishitva and Vashitva. According to ‘Devi Puran’, the supreme God Shiva got all these siddhis by worshipping the supreme Goddess Maha Shakti. With her gratitude, his half body has become of Goddess, hence Lord Shiva’s name ‘Ardhanarishvar’ has become famous. According to some sources she drives on Lion. Other sources say, she is seated on lotus. Siddhidatri Devi is worshipped by all Gods, Rushis, Muniswaras, Siddha yogis, and all common devotees who want to attain the religious asset.
Mata sab ko sukh pradan kare !
Via Srikant Rawas
Devotees offer different food items to Goddess Durga during 9-days Navratri Durga Puja
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This may differ from place to place in North India and South India.
All the offerings made to the Goddess should be distributed among devotees and to the poor. Though, there are many differences in North and South Indian Naivedyam list, here is a list of Naivedya for all the nine days of Navratri Puja. It can be followed by all regions without any hesitance.
28 September 2011, First day of Navratri, Pratipada: Ghee or products made of ghee. It makes the devotee free from all diseases and makes him healthy.
29 September 2011, Second day of Navratri, Dwitiya: Sugar or the food made with Sugar products. For this Goddess Durga blesses the devotee with fullest happiness and good health.
30 September 2011, Third day of Navratri, Tritiya: Milk or the products prepared with milk. Durga Ma blesses the devotees for this with peace and mental happiness in the life.
30 September 2011, Fourth day of Navratri, Chaturthi: Offer the Goddess the products made with Maida and sugar. It blesses the devotee to get rid of all his sins.
1 October 2011, Fifth day of Navratri, Panchami: Bananas or any other fruits but offering bananas gives psychological maturity for the devotee.
2 October 2011, Sixth day of Navratri, Sashti: Honey or the products made of honey. It makes devotee free from any mental illness and provides them fullest confidence to face any challenge in life with ease.
3 October 2011, Seventh day of Navratri, Saptami: Offer items made of jaggery. It makes the devotee wealthy for all the coming generations.
4 October 2011, Eighth day of Navratri, Ashtami: Offer Coconut or any other product made of coconut water. It makes the devotee happy and prosperous in his life.
5 October 2011, Ninth day of Navratri, Navami: Grains such as wheat, maze, etc on this day makes the devotee free from all his bonds and provides him salvation after his death.
There are different Naivedyam items for Navratri puja in South India, especially in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Is Navratri, mata sab ko kush rakhe
Via Srikant Rawas
How to Pacify Lord Shani
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Lit a lamp (Deepak) at Pipal tree in the evening and circumambulate around the tree for seven times. After this offer seven ladoos to a black dog. Doing so, Lord Shani grants the positive results.
Even Shani is pacified by offering black desi grams to a black buffalo or a horse, on any Saturday.
Lord Shani can be pacified through the herbs and the roots too. On any Saturday, when ‘Pushya’ constellation is prevailing, one should put on the root of Bichuva Buti or Shami (Chhokar) over his upper right arm after having tied it in black thread. It turns down the malefic effects of Lord Shani.
Go and search the horse’s shoe and get it made into a ring from the blacksmith on any Saturday. Put it in the clean water or dip it into the unboiled milk on Friday night. On Saturday morning put it in the middle finger of your left hand. It gives instant results.
A person suffering from the troubles relating to SadheSatti should keep fasting on every Saturday for getting rid of such troubles. After worshipping Lord Shani, he should break his fast in the evening, after sun set. The Pooja Samagri used for worshipping Lord Hanuman are - Vermilion, black sesame oil, deepak and the red flower.
On Saturday fill the oil in the iron pot, putting seven pieces of black grams, seven pieces of barley, seven pieces of black urad into it and also putting Dakshina (Cash) over it. Looking your face into it, give the alms to a ‘Dakote’ or go and put it in the Shani Temple. This is applicable and result oriented, if performed before 11:00 AM only.
To nullify the adverse effects of ‘Sadhesatti’, one should take a bath putting aniseeds, i.e. the seeds of symploce racemose, poppy seeds, creosode, collyrium, the black sesame, mastic (gum arebic), 'shatkusum'; the parched rice in the water. It nullifies the malefic effects of Shani.
On Friday night, dip one and a quarter Kilograms of black grams in three parts, all in equal quantities. Offering them to Lord Shani through mental worship, offer the first part to a horse or a buffalo after been fried and putting chilies and masala over it. Now, second part may be distributed to the persons suffering from leprosy, and the third part be put on the road-crossing (where there four lanes meet). It is the best way to pacify Lord Shani.
On Saturday, before sunrise, a Deepak of oil (mustard oil or sesame oil) may be lit under Pipal tree and it should be worshipped by the milk, dhoop, deep etc. It is beneficial to attain good results.
Lord Shani is also pleased by worshipping the black cow. Cow may be worshipped putting tilak over her forehead, tying sacred thread over her horns and offering dhoop. Her Aarti must be performed. Finally she may be offered boondi ladoo (four in number), after circumambulating around her. It stops all adverse effects of Sadhesatti of Lord Shani.
Even offering Ladoo to crows and the black dogs also pacify Lord Shani.
One should enchant the mantra for twenty one days, starting from any Saturday (23,000 times in number).
Om Pram Preem Prom
Se Shanishcharaya Nameh
The substitutes of Neelam (Sapphire) are the stones named ‘Sanglileeya’, ‘Sangjamuniya’ and root of ‘Bichhole’. Putting on these substitute stones or the root also give a benefic effects.
On Saturday take a black thread, 19 times as long as your hand and put it around your neck as a garland. It gives good results.
Dip black grams in water on Friday night. On Saturday take these black grams, the coke, the turmeric and a piece of iron and tie them all in a black clothe and throw them into the flowing water among the fish. Perform it every Saturday for a one long year; it cools down the obstacles created due to the malefic effects of Shani. Fish and the Flesh-eaters should avoid eating fish during this period. It's called ‘Motidan’.
Putting on the ring made of a horse-shoe or with the nail of an old ship, gives good effects to pacify Lord Shani in Sadhesatti period.
Malefic effects of Shani are pacified by offering to a black dog a chapatti made of oil and putting a sweet over it.
On any Saturday with ‘Sharavan’ Nakshatra, put on the root of ‘Bichuva Buti’ or the seed of ‘Shami’ tied with black thread, over the right upper arm. It rectifies all troubles.
On any Saturday, prepare two chapattis with flour (inclusive of bran). Put oil and sweet over one chapatti and the ghee over the other chapatti. Offer the first chapatti (with oil and sweet) to a black cow and the second (with ghee over it) to the same cow. Now pray to Lord Shani for the peace and prosperity.
Offer bananas, sweet parched rice, jaggery and black grams to the monkeys on every saturday. This also helps ending up malefic effects of Shani.
On any Saturday, wrap sacred thread (kacha soot) around the Pipal tree for seven times and keep on enchanting either of Shani Mantra; it takes away the troubles of Sadhesatti. Poojan and litting of deepak at Pipal tree is compulsory after wrapping the thread. On this day the fasting person should take saltless food that too once in a day.
In order to please Lord Shani, at the time of rising sun, enchant below mentioned Shani mantra, seven times or twenty-one times, every day. It takes away all your troubles
Suryaputro Deerghadehee, Vishalakshya Shivpriya! Mandchar prasanatama,Peeram haratam may Shani!!
In our classical books, calling the names of the wife of Lord Shani has been advised. The native gets its positive results. It may be enchanted over every day.
Om Sham Shanishcharaaye Nameh, Dhwajini, Dhamini, Chaiv, Kankali, Kalahpriyeh! Kantaki, Kalahi, Chath, Turangi, Mahishi, Aja,Om Sham Shanishcharaya Nameh!!
Enchanting these names pleases the wife of Lord Shani. With a result, Lord Shani is pacified and takes away all the troubles of a native.
Your house may be decorated with blue cloths, blue curtains and blue bed sheets and colour the walls in blue colour.
On 27 long Saturdays, put seven pieces of the almond and black urad each, at some religious place.
Keep away from the liquor and the fish & flesh as well as Tobacco & other intoxicating drinks should not be taken.
If someone happens to die on a Saturday, donate the wood for his funeral ceremony.
Starting on a Saturday, at the time of rising sun, offer oil at Shani idol, continuously for 43 days, excluding Sundays.
In dark cell of your house in the south or west direction, put twelve almonds tied in a black cloth.
Water the Pipal tree on Thursday or Saturday.
Always keep a square piece of silver with you.
Take a bath while sitting on a wooden stool, putting unboiled milk in the water.
Incase moon is a malefic planet in your horoscope, put 500 pieces of urad in Mustard Oil and throw them into the flowing water.
Incase moon is placed uncomfortably in your horoscope, offer 500 gms milk in the flowing water on Monday and the black urad on Saturday.
Give yellow clothes as offering to a Saint or Sage.
Vijayadashmi Festival
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Dussehra can also be interpreted as "Dasa-Hara", which means the cutting of the ten heads of Ravana. On the day of Dussehra, Ram, killed the great demon Ravan, who had abducted Ram's wife Sita to his kingdom of Lanka. Ram, along with his brother Lakshman and devoted follower Hanuman, and an army of monkeys fought a great battle to rescue his lovely wife Sita. The war against Ravan lasted for ten days. Sita had been returned to her husband Ram and they now make their way to Ayodhya in triumph and glory.
Dussera is the tenth day after Navratri. It marks the end of the nine days of Navratri. Vijayadashami as Dussehra is also known, celebrates the homecoming of Lord Rama the hero of the epic Ramayana, after he rescued his wife Sita from Ravana, the king of Lanka.
Legends of Dussehra
Dussehra is the day, when Rama killed Ravana and won back his wife (Hence also called Vijayadashmi) who had managed to save her honor from the dirty hands of Ravana and was waiting anxiously to meet her husband.
Dussehra is also reminiscent of the end of the exile and banishment of the Pandava princes in the epic Mahabharata and their return with their weapons to reclaim their kingdom.
Vijayadashami is also celebrated as the day of victory to rejoice about Durga's triumph over the demons led by Mahishasura. It is essentially a festival in honor of Durga. The Divine Mother fought with him for nine nights, and killed him on the evening of the tenth day, known as the Vijaya Dasami.
Vijayadashami is also the day of the Saraswati or the deity of knowledge and learning.
Importance of Dusshera
Songs are sung in praise of Rama and people in thousands witness this traditional theatre with its exaggerated costumes, jewelry, makeup and drama. Effigies of Ravana are set ablaze, signifying the victory of good over evil. In modern times it calls for efforts to destroy the demon of our ego, and radiate peace and love wherever we go.
Signifies the victory of good over evil. On this day you pray to Mother Durga to destroy all your impurities, your vices, your defects. She is to fight with and annihilate the baser animal qualities in the spiritual aspirant, the lower, diabolical nature in you. Once you have accomplished your task on the negative side, that of breaking down the impure propensities and old vicious habits, the next step is to build up a sublime spiritual personality, to acquire positive qualities in place of the eliminated demoniacal qualities.
People worship the implements/tools of their professions and distribute the leaves of the Shami tree, which is considered as valuable as gold, but only for a day to express their goodwill.
Life after Death
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In all the recorded cases of rebirth, it was found that there was a variable time lag between the death of the person and his next birth on Earth. So, where does the person go after his death till his rebirth on Earth? Is it a single place or are there a variety of places? If so, what are the factors that decide where a particular person will go to after death?
The places a person may go after death
When a person dies the physical body ceases to exist. However, the rest of his existence or consciousness continues. The person minus the physical body is known as the subtle body and it comprises of the mental, causal (intellect) and supracausal bodies (subtle ego).
The various planes of existence
There are 14 main planes of existence in the Universe. Seven of them are positive planes and seven are negative planes. The seven negative regions are commonly known as Hell. There are numerous sub-planes within these main planes of existence.
The human subtle body after death goes to one of the 13 planes of existence other than the Earth plane.
What is the importance of the ritual of Shraddha?
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Sages are considered to be hot tempered in comparison to God and due to this nature they could curse one and thus entrap the embodied soul.
However as debts towards ancestors need to be repaid by actions, it becomes simple and easy to repay these debts through the ritual of Shraddha.
Therefore, in order to be able to repay other debts in a good manner, it is necessary that everyone relies upon debts towards ancestors that acts as link between God and Sages, satisfy them by performing these rituals and try to embark upon the progress towards attaining final liberation.
By performing the ritual of Shraddha, with the help of the ancestors� souls one can slowly progress towards reaching God and Sages and by the virtue of combined support from Vasu, Rudra, and Aditya (Vasu means aspirations, Rudra means dissolution, and Aditya means radiance or action), one can provide momentum to the deceased father, grandfather and great grandfather and in turn acquire blessings from God.
Business and source of Income from your Kundli
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Business and Money in your Kundli
People earn for a good life. A well chosen profession lessens worries in life. Proper profession ensures his or her success and a beautiful life. Vedic astrology has given useful ways of crafting a perfect professional life.
Business or service
While choosing a career a native may be in dilemma whether to go for business or service. Vedic astrology says that if there is any weak planet in the 2nd, 5th, 9th, 10th or 11th house of a kundli then the native should take service. Whereas business is the right choice for a native if the above mentioned houses have strong planets.
2nd house determines the financial status
The 2nd house of kundli gives an idea about the financial status of a person. The 2nd house also determines the success of an individual. Profit from partnership business, trading are also calculated from this house.
Status of wealth and income from 4th to 7th house
The 4th house of kundli determines paternal wealth. The 5th house of kundli gives sudden wealth to its native. The native may get money from lottery as this house usually has exalted planet. Status of partnership in business and wealth from marital relationship can be determined from the 7th house. A curious native may even find his or her fortune from in-laws.
Suitable profession from 8th to 12th house
According to Indian astrological principles the 8th house in kundli is the significator of sufferings as well as income of its native. The house indicates sudden wealth, profit from betting, and financial favor from women.
The 9th house is the house of luck. The 10th house of kundli is the house of business, service and other careers. This house indicates the status of income from government service and private sector. A native’s expenditures can be calculated from the 12th house of his or her kundli. You can check the ratio of your income and expenditure from the 12th house.
Planets in 10th house points out income
Sun or Moon in the 10th house indicates wealth from father or paternal relationship. Placement of Sun in this house means the native may do his or her father’s role. Similarly, Moon in 10th house signifies wealth from mother or maternal side. There is a chance of success in fields powered by Moon.
Astrologers say that Mars in 10th house gives its natives profit from opposition. Mars enhances its native’s success in army, defense and ammunition department.
Mercury brings happiness and full support of friends, financial and mental.
Jupiter in the 10th house means care and company of brothers. The native makes a profitable career in education or as an advisor, counselor, lecturer and other Jupiter dominated fields.
Venus in the 10th house means native’s fabulous income in art industry. She makes successful career in music, dancing, acting, painting and other art related fields. Astrology says Saturn in this house makes its native hard working. With this the native achieves success in tourism, iron, wooden furniture, cement and chemical industry.
Via: Srikant Rawas
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