GSB Coimbatore Blog

Shivashtakam And Meaning

प्रभुं प्राणनाथं विभुं विश्वनाथं जगन्नाथ नाथं सदानन्द भाजाम् ।
भवद्भव्य भूतॆश्वरं भूतनाथं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ
गलॆ रुण्डमालं तनौ सर्पजालं महाकाल कालं गणॆशादि पालम् ।
जटाजूट गङ्गॊत्तरङ्गै र्विशालं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ
मुदामाकरं मण्डनं मण्डयन्तं महा मण्डलं भस्म भूषाधरं तम् ।
अनादिं ह्यपारं महा मॊहमारं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ
वटाधॊ निवासं महाट्टाट्टहासं महापाप नाशं सदा सुप्रकाशम् ।
गिरीशं गणॆशं सुरॆशं महॆशं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ ॥ 4 ॥
गिरीन्द्रात्मजा सङ्गृहीतार्धदॆहं गिरौ संस्थितं सर्वदापन्न गॆहम् ।
परब्रह्म ब्रह्मादिभिर्-वन्द्यमानं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ
कपालं त्रिशूलं कराभ्यां दधानं पदाम्भॊज नम्राय कामं ददानम् ।
बलीवर्धमानं सुराणां प्रधानं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ
शरच्चन्द्र गात्रं गणानन्दपात्रं त्रिनॆत्रं पवित्रं धनॆशस्य मित्रम् ।
अपर्णा कलत्रं सदा सच्चरित्रं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ
हरं सर्पहारं चिता भूविहारं भवं वॆदसारं सदा निर्विकारं।
श्मशानॆ वसन्तं मनॊजं दहन्तं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ
स्वयं यः प्रभातॆ नरश्शूल पाणॆ पठॆत् स्तॊत्ररत्नं त्विहप्राप्यरत्नम् ।
सुपुत्रं सुधान्यं सुमित्रं कलत्रं विचित्रैस्समाराध्य मॊक्षं प्रयाति ॥


prabhuṃ prāṇanāthaṃ vibhuṃ viśvanāthaṃ jagannātha nāthaṃ sadānanda bhājām |
bhavadbhavya bhūteśvaraṃ bhūtanāthaṃ, śivaṃ śaṅkaraṃ śambhu mīśānamīḍe
gaḷe ruṇḍamālaṃ tanau sarpajālaṃ mahākāla kālaṃ gaṇeśādi pālam |
jaṭājūṭa gaṅgottaraṅgai rviśālaṃ, śivaṃ śaṅkaraṃ śambhu mīśānamīḍe
mudāmākaraṃ maṇḍanaṃ maṇḍayantaṃ mahā maṇḍalaṃ bhasma bhūṣādharaṃ tam |
anādiṃ hyapāraṃ mahā mohamāraṃ, śivaṃ śaṅkaraṃ śambhu mīśānamīḍe
vaṭādho nivāsaṃ mahāṭṭāṭṭahāsaṃ mahāpāpa nāśaṃ sadā suprakāśam |
girīśaṃ gaṇeśaṃ sureśaṃ maheśaṃ, śivaṃ śaṅkaraṃ śambhu mīśānamīḍe
girīndrātmajā saṅgṛhītārdhadehaṃ girau saṃsthitaṃ sarvadāpanna geham |
parabrahma brahmādibhir-vandyamānaṃ, śivaṃ śaṅkaraṃ śambhu mīśānamīḍe
kapālaṃ triśūlaṃ karābhyāṃ dadhānaṃ padāmbhoja namrāya kāmaṃ dadānam |
balīvardhamānaṃ surāṇāṃ pradhānaṃ, śivaṃ śaṅkaraṃ śambhu mīśānamīḍe
śaraccandra gātraṃ gaṇānandapātraṃ trinetraṃ pavitraṃ dhaneśasya mitram |
aparṇā kaḷatraṃ sadā saccaritraṃ, śivaṃ śaṅkaraṃ śambhu mīśānamīḍe
haraṃ sarpahāraṃ citā bhūvihāraṃ bhavaṃ vedasāraṃ sadā nirvikāraṃ|
śmaśāne vasantaṃ manojaṃ dahantaṃ, śivaṃ śaṅkaraṃ śambhu mīśānamīḍe

Meaning & Translation

I pray You, Siva, Sankara, Sambhu, Who is the Lord, Who is the Lord of our lives, Who is Vibhu, Who is the Lord of the world, Who is the Lord of Vishnu (Jagannatha), Who is always dwelling in happiness, Who imparts light or shine to everything, Who is the Lord of living beings, Who is the Lord of ghosts, and Who is the Lord of everyone.

I pray You, Siva, Sankara, Sambhu, Who has a garland of skull around the neck, Who has a net of snakes around His body, Who is the destroyer of the immense-destroyer Kala, Who is the lord of Ganesa, Whose matted-hair are spread-out by the presence of the waves of Ganga falling on His head, and Who is the Lord of everyone.

I pray You, Siva, Sankara, Sambhu, Who scatters happiness [in the world], Who is ornating the universe, Who is the immense universe Himself, Who is possessing the adornment of ashes, Who is without a beginning, Who is without a measure, Who removes the greatest attachments, and Who is the Lord of everyone.

I pray You, Siva, Sankara, Sambhu, Who resides below a Vata (Banyan) tree, Who possesses an immense laughter, Who destroys the greatest sins, Who is always resplendent, Who is the Lord of Himalaya, various Gana and the demi-gods, Who is the great Lord, and Who is the Lord of everyone.

I pray You, Siva, Sankara, Sambhu, Who shares half of His body with the daughter of Himalaya, Who is situated in a mountain (Kailasa), Who is always a resort for the depressed, Who is the Atman, Who is reverred by (or Who is worthy of reverence by) Brahma and others, and Who is the Lord of everyone.

I pray You, Siva, Sankara, Sambhu, Who holds a skull and a trident in the hands, Who endows the desires of those who are humble to His lotus-feet, Who uses an Ox as a vehicle², Who is supreme and above various demi-gods, and Who is the Lord of everyone.

I pray You, Siva, Sankara, Sambhu, Who has a face like the Winter-moon, Who is the subject of happiness of Gana, Who has three eyes, Who is pure, Who is the friend of Kubera (controller of wealth), Who is the consort of Aparna (Parvati), Who has eternal characteristics, and Who is the Lord of everyone.

I pray You, Siva, Sankara, Sambhu, Who is known as Hara, Who has a garland of snakes, Who roams around the cremation grounds, Who is the universe, Who is the summary of the Veda (or the One discussed by Veda), Who is always dispassionate, Who is living in the cremation grounds, Who is burning desires born in the mind, and Who is the Lord of everyone.


Via: Facebook, Indian Life Ethics & Karmas


[NOTE: The article "Shivashtakam And Meaning" 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.]

[WHAT IS] Sri Satyanarayana Ashtotharam Shatanaamaavali

Shri Sathyanaranayana katha is from Skandha purana, Reva kaanda. Sutha Puraanikji was the narrator of these stories, in Neimishaaranya to the rishis lead by Shounakji who were performing a 1,000 year yajna for the benefit of mankind.

Satya Narayan is the Narayan form of Lord Vishnu. The Lord in this form is considered an embodiment of truth. Satyanarayana is worshipped commonly by Hindus in their homes with family and friends, usually on a full moon (purnima) day of the month. In this puja called Satyanarayana Pooja, people worship by reciting the gracious story of Lord Satyanarayana. This story was originally told by Lord Vishnu himself to the sage Narada for the benefit of humankind.

Om Satyadevaya Namaha
Om Satyatmane Namaha
Om Satyabhuutaya Namaha
Om Satyapurushhaya Namaha
Om Satyanathaya Namaha
Om Satyasaxine Namaha
Om Satyayogaya Namaha
Om Satyagyanaya Namaha
Om Satyagyanapriyaya Namaha
Om Satyanidhaye Namaha
Om Satyasambhavaya Namaha
Om Satyaprabhuve Namaha
Om Satyeshvaraya Namaha
Om Satyakarmane Namaha
Om Satyapavitraya Namaha
Om Satyama.Ngalaya Namaha
Om Satyagarbhaya Namaha
Om Satyaprajapataye Namaha
Om Satyavikramaya Namaha
Om Satyasiddhaya Namaha
Om Satyachyutaya Namaha
Om Satyaviiraya Namaha
Om Satyabodhaya Namaha
Om Satyadharmaya Namaha
Om Satyagrajaya Namaha
Om Satyasa.Ntushhtaya Namaha
Om Satyavarahaya Namaha
Om Satyaparayanaya Namaha
Om Satyapuurnaya Namaha
Om Satyaushhadhaya Namaha
Om Satyashashvataya Namaha
Om Satyapravardhanaya Namaha
Om Satyavibhave Namaha
Om Satyajyeshhthaya Namaha
Om Satyashreshhthaya Namaha
Om Satyavikramine Namaha
Om Satyadhanvine Namaha
Om Satyamedhaya Namaha
Om Satyadhiishaya Namaha
Om Satyakratave Namaha
Om Satyakalaya Namaha
Om Satyavatsalaya Namaha
Om Satyavasave Namaha
Om Satyameghaya Namaha
Om Satyarudraya Namaha
Om Satyabrahmane Namaha
Om SatyamrItaya Namaha
Om SatyavedanGaya Namaha
Om Satyachaturatmane Namaha
Om Satyabhoktre Namaha
Om Satyashuchaye Namaha
Om Satyarjitaya Namaha
Om Satye.Ndraya Namaha
Om Satyasa.Ngaraya Namaha
Om Satyasvargaya Namaha
Om Satyaniyamaya Namaha
Om Satyamedhaya Namaha
Om Satyavedyaya Namaha
Om Satyapiiyuushhaya Namaha
Om Satyamayaya Namaha
Om Satyamohaya Namaha
Om Satyasurana.Ndaya Namaha
Om Satyasagaraya Namaha
Om Satyatapase Namaha
Om Satyasi.Nhaya Namaha
Om SatyamrIgaya Namaha
Om Satyalokapalakaya Namaha
Om Satyasthitaya Namaha
Om Satyadikpalakaya Namaha
Om Satyadhanurdharaya Namaha
Om Satyambujaya Namaha
Om Satyavakyaya Namaha
Om Satyagurave Namaha
Om Satyanyayaya Namaha
Om Satyasaxine Namaha
Om Satyasa.NvrItaya Namaha
Om Satyasampradaya Namaha
Om Satyavahnaye Namaha
Om Satyavayuve Namaha
Om Satyashikharaya Namaha
Om Satyana.Ndaya Namaha
Om Satyadhirajaya Namaha
Om Satyashriipadaya Namaha
Om Satyaguhyaya Namaha
Om Satyodaraya Namaha
Om SatyahrIdayaya Namaha
Om Satyakamalaya Namaha
Om Satyanalaya Namaha
Om Satyahastaya Namaha
Om Satyabahave Namaha
Om Satyamukhaya Namaha
Om Satyajihvaya Namaha
Om Satyadau.Nshhtraya Namaha
Om Satyanashikaya Namaha
Om Satyashrotraya Namaha
Om Satyachakase Namaha
Om Satyashirase Namaha
Om Satyamukutaya Namaha
Om Satyambaraya Namaha
Om Satyabharanaya Namaha
Om Satyayudhaya Namaha
Om Satyashrivallabhaya Namaha
Om Satyaguptaya Namaha
Om Satyapushkaraya Namaha
Om Satyadhridaya Namaha
Om Satyabhamavatarakaya Namaha
Om SatyagrIharupine Namaha
Om Satyapraharanayudhaya Namaha



Via: Facebook, Indian Life Ethics & Karmas


[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.]

[WHAT IS] Vaikuntha Ekadashi

Vaikuntha Ekadashi (Kannada: ವೈಕುಂಠ ಏಕಾದಶಿ; (Tamil: வைகுண்ட ஏகாதசி; Telugu: వైకుంఠ ఏకాదశి; Sanskrit: वैकुंठ एकादशि) (Sometimes called Mukkoti Ekadashi in Telugu) is the Shukla paksha Ekadashi that occurs during the Dhanurmasa period in the Hindu calendar (corresponding to late December - January in English calendar).
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.]

[WHAT IS] Why do people pierce their body with hooks and lance during Thaipusam?

People piercing their body with hooks, skewers and (vel) small lances during Thaipusam at Murugan Temples is a common sight. In the beginning people only used to pierce their tongue with a small vel - this was a means to meditate by keeping silent. The vel was used to create a forceful means for Mauna Vratam - remaining silent. In the beginning it was a simple innocent offering done by Muruga Devotees.

But today in some instances, Lord Muruga devotees pull heavy chariots with hooks attached to their bodies - this is a very recent trend.

Such practices are not mentioned in Hindu Holy Scriptures. In Holy books, body is quite often mentioned as the temple in which Brahman resides. ‘Vel’ was presented to Lord Muruga by Mother Parvati to vanquish the demons and not to pierce his body. Even the stories associated with taking Kavadi has nothing to with body piercing.

But piercing cheeks and tongue with ‘vel’ is a common practice by devotees of Lord Muruga. In Malaysia, it goes a step forward and some devotees pull heavy objects up the Batu Caves using hooks attached to the body.

Most people perform such piercing to fulfill their wishes. They believe that Muruga will be easily pleased, if the degree of such antics are increased.

Ignorance of the basic tenants of Hinduism is the reason behind such practices. People get nothing but mental satisfaction and bodily pain from such piercing.

But these practices have been taking place for thousands of years and several symbolisms have been attached to these practices.

Piercing of the tongue is done to stop the speech and thereby to concentrate fully on the Lord.

Another symbolism states that it is to show that the physical body is a ‘maya’ and ultimate aim is to merge with the Brahman. There are several other symbolisms.

Most devotees enter into a trance during the piercing mainly due to the excessive drumming and chanting. They claim that they experience no pain during piercing and even after the ritual.

Adi Shankaracharya speaks about rituals like this:

Rituals are like blankets that veil the truth. They are nets to trap our intellect, forcing us to confine our consciousness to the superficial values of the manifest world. The thinking of a person who believes exclusively in ritual practices becomes confined to this little world. Subtle thoughts of the mind and tender feelings of heart become outward oriented. Such a person begins to believe that everything can be accomplished with the help of rituals.


Via: Facebook, Hindu Temples Information


[NOTE: The article "[WHAT IS] Why do people pierce their body with hooks and lance during Thaipusam?" 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.]

[WHAT IS] Lakshmi Puja [HOW-TO]

Lakshmi puja is a Hindu ritual performed on Diwali Amavasya, is the third day of Dipavali (Diwali), the Hindu festival of lights. According to tradition people would put small oil lamps outside their houses on Diwali and pray to Goddess Lakshmi to bless their family and businesses.

Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped by those who wish to acquire or to preserve wealth. It is believed that the goddess ( of wealth) visits only those houses which are clean and where the people are honest and hard-working.

In the Sri Vaishnava philosophy however, Sri (Lakshmi) is honoured as the "Iswarigm sarva bhootanam," i.e., the Supreme goddess and not just the goddess of wealth. This is an important distinction between Sri Vaishnavism and other materialistic philosophies.

The day of Lakshmi-Puja falls on the dark night of Amavasya. The strains of joyous sounds of bells and drums float from the temples as man is invoking Goddess Lakshmi in a wondrous holy "pouring-in" of his heart. All of a sudden that impenetrable darkness is pierced by innumerable rays of light for just a moment and the next moment a blaze of light descends down to earth from heaven as golden-footed Deep-Lakshmi alights on earth in all her celestial glory amidst chantings of Vedic hymns.


Pooja Vidhi - Steps of Lakshmi Puja

Begin Puja by laying down a piece of new cloth on a raised platform. Spread out a handful of grains in the center of the cloth and place a kalasha made of gold, silver, copper, or terracotta. Fill three-fourths of the kalasha with water and place inside it a betel nut, a flower, a coin, and some rice grains. Arrange five kinds of leaves from different trees, or if a variety is not available then leaves from a Mango tree, in the kalasha. Place a small dish on the kalash and fill it with rice grains. Draw a lotus with turmeric powder ( haldi ) over the rice grains and place the idol of Goddess Lakshmi on top of the kalasha, spreading coins around it.

Place the idol of Lord Ganesha in front of the kalasha, on the right hand side pointing to the South-West direction. Also place ink and account books related to your business on the platform. Light a lamp and begin the puja by offering haldi, kumkum, and flowers to the platform on which the kalash is placed. Then offer haldi, kumkum, and flowers to the water that is to be used for the puja. Invoke [Saraswati | the river goddess Saraswati] to be part of this water.

Invoke the Goddess Lakshmi by reciting the Vedic mantras addressed to her. One can also recite the mantras mentioned in the Puranas or simply take some flowers in your hands, close your eyes, and think of the Goddess Lakshmi as being showered with gold coins by two elephants standing on either side of Her and chant Her name. Then offer the flowers to the idol.
Place the idol of Goddess Lakshmi in a plate and bathe it with water, [Panchamrita | panchamrit] (a mixture of milk, curd, ghee or clarified butter, honey, and sugar) and then with water containing some gold ornament or a pearl. Wipe the idol clean and place it back on the kalasha. Alternately, you can just sprinkle water and panchamrit on the idol with a flower.


Offerings

Offer sandal paste, saffron paste, perfume ( ittar ), haldi, kumkum, abeer, and gulal to the Goddess. Offer a garland of cotton beads to the Goddess. Offer flowers, especially the marigold flowers and leaves of Bael (wood apple tree). Light an incense stick and dhoop. Make an offering of sweets, coconut, fruits, and tambul. Make an offering of puffed rice and batasha (varieties of Indian sweets). Pour some puffed rice, batasha, coriander seeds, and cumin seeds over the idol. Draw religious markings on the safe in which you keep your valuables and worship this safe as a symbol of Lord Kubera.


Aarti

Finally, perform the aarti for Goddess Lakshmi. Always remember that She abhors loud noise. So the aarti should be accompanied only by a small bell. Do not clap hands, as is the practice when performing aarti for other gods. A peaceful and sublime atmosphere should prevail during the Diwali day pujan. Do not light crackers while the puja is on or immediately after it.


Via: Facebook, Indian Life Ethics & Karmas's


[NOTE: The article "[WHAT IS] Lakshmi Puja [HOW-TO]" 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.]

An Appeal to all Samaj Bandhavas

Dear Samaj Bandhavas,

Sri Venkatesha Seva Samithi Charitable Trust has been conducting monthly Sathyanarayana Pooja at our Ishtadevatha Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, at Marudhamalai, Coimbatore on every 1st Sunday of the English month in the morning for the past 9 years.

God has given us manushya janma and that too as Brahman only on credit of our poorva punyas acquired by us in our earlier krimi, keeda, pakshi, mrugadi janmas. The only way to escape from this cycle of births is to surrender at the lotus feet of Sri LORD NARAYANA.

Let us join our hands to serve Srimannarayana with utmost bhakthy and put all our efforts for the realization of the Soul, which is the ultimate aim of the human birth rather than acquiring wealth.

Those who want to sponsor the pooja may contact the management at the below-mentioned numbers. Those who are unable to sponsor for the time being may join us for Sankalpa Sathyanarayana Pooja by paying only Rs. 51/-.

MANA EVA MANUSHYANAM KARANAM BANDHA MOKSHAYO

Please realize that money is not the criteria, but the mind is the criteria.

So, we request all Samaj Bandhavas to participate with family with full devotion and make it a grand great success and get the blessings of Sri Lakshmi Narasimha and Sri Sathyanarayana, which will enlighten you internally and in your day-to-day life as well.


Sri. P. Achutha Pai, President
+91-98422-98399 / +91-98431-98399

Sri. Rajeshkumar Shenoy, Secretary
+91-98432-61200

Sri. Venugopala Prabhu, Joint Secretary
+91-98948-84091

Sri. RH Udaykumar Pai, Treasurer
+91-99444-32420


With warm and best regards,

Coimbatore Sree Lakshmi Narasimha Devasthanam, SVSS Trust

[WHY?] Why is the Ganesha idol immersed in water after the Ganesh Chaturthi festival?

Vinayaka Chaturthi or Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations end with the immersion or Visarjan of clay Ganapati idol in water.

Hindus worship Brahman or the Supreme Soul present in all animate and inanimate, but for a majority of the people it is not possible to worship this formlessness. They need a form to pray to, to seek help, to cry, and to take blessings. Ganesha is ‘OM’ the primordial sound or the first ‘Vaak.’ Nirguna Para Brahman takes the form of Ganesha.

Clay and water is mixed to give form to the formlessness. Each person brings Ganesha in clay idol form into the home. This is the Supreme Being arriving at home. After the celebrations, it is time to accept the eternal cosmic law that which took form has to become formless again. It is a never ending cycle (Chakra).

The formlessness giving way to form and then moving again towards formlessness. Each year, Ganesha arrives to teach us that:

Forms change, but the Supreme Truth remains the same. Body perishes, but the Brahman residing in it remains constant. This body becomes energy for another, but the source of energy is the same. Bliss is achieved when we realize this.

The act also symbolizes the concept of Moksha, or liberation, in Hinduism. Osho says – ‘Absolute unclinging. That is what is meant by Moksha – freedom – no clinging, not even to gods.’

Thus we create Ganesha out of clay, worship it and later it is submerged (Visarjan).

Important TIP: Use only clay Ganesh idols and please do not throw plastic in water. Perform a symbolic immersion in a bucket of water and then use it to water the plants.

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[NOTE: The article "[WHY?] Why is the Ganesha idol immersed in water after the Ganesh Chaturthi festival?" 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.]

Importance of Prasad

Prasad

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.]

[HOW-TO] How to Observe Ekadashi

Signifance of Ekadasi Fasting:
Ekadasi or Ekadashi is a Sanskrit word derived from the words, Eka which means one and dasi, the womanly form of the word dasa (which means ten). Ekadashi, also known as Agyaars, falls on the eleventh day after the full moon and again eleventh day after the new moon of every month. Thus, Ekadasi occurs twice in a month one of the 11th day of shukla paksha and another one on the 11th day of krishna paksha (dark). Hence, there are twenty four Ekadasis in a year. In Hindu religion, Ekadashi day is meant for fasting and people observe a complete fast on this day, to please Lord Maha Vishnu. Observing Ekadasi Vrat enhances spiritual development.

How to observe Ekadashi Fasting:
As stated by the Vedic scripts, Ekadashi fast begins on the day before the Ekadasi, on the Dashami (the tenth phase of the Moon), continues on the day of Ekadasi and ends on the Dvadasi, the day after Ekadasi (the twelfth phase of the Moon). However, complete fast is observed only on the day of Ekadasi, irrespective of gender. One should avoid consuming grains, beans, cereals, certain vegetables and spices on the day. If this is not possible, one can consume a single non-grain meal once in the afternoon or in the evening. Alcohol and non-vegetarian food should be avoided.

One should

1. Not shave the body, face or head
2. Spread oils on one's body
3. Do not lie; or participate in tough exercise or labor.

The person should engage himself/herself in chanting, hearing and reading and discussing the stories/history of the Lord and involve in other spiritual services. The pious services carried out on this day are more effective.

Legend behind Ekadasi Fasting:
Legend says that once Lord Vishnu was fighting with a demon named Mura. As the Lord felt tired, he decided to rest from the long battle. The demon planned to kill the Lord while he was sleeping. Unexpectedly, a young girl manifested from the body of the Lord and killed the demon. The gratified Lord gave her the name Ekadasi, as she emerged on the eleventh day of the declining moon. Ekadasi was granted a boon that if anyone who fasts on Ekadashi will be set free from sinful activities and reach His abode.



[NOTE: The article "[HOW-TO] How to Observe Ekadashi" 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. ]

Sanskrit

Sanskrit (संस्कृतम् saṃskṛtam [sə̃skɹ̩t̪əm], originally संस्कृता वाक् saṃskṛtā vāk, "refined speech") is a historical Indo-Aryan language, the primary liturgical language of Hinduism and a literary and scholarly language in Buddhism and Jainism. Today, it is listed as one of the 22 scheduled languages of India and is an official language of the state of Uttarakhand. Sanskrit holds a prominent position in Indo-European studies.

The corpus of Sanskrit literature encompasses a rich tradition of poetry and drama as well as scientific, technical, philosophical and dharma texts. Sanskrit continues to be widely used as a ceremonial language in Hindu religious rituals and Buddhist practice in the forms of hymns and mantras. Spoken Sanskrit is still in use in some villages and a few traditional institutions in India, and there are many attempts at further popularization.

The Sanskrit verbal adjective sáṃskṛta- may be translated as "put together, constructed, well or completely formed; refined, adorned, highly elaborated". It is derived from the root saṃ-skar- "to put together, compose, arrange, prepare", where saṃ- "together" (as English same) and (s)kar- "do, make".

The term in the generic meaning of "made ready, prepared, completed, finished" is found in the Rigveda. Also in Vedic Sanskrit, as nominalized neuter saṃskṛtám, it means "preparation, prepared place" and thus "ritual enclosure, place for a sacrifice".

As a term for "refined or elaborated speech" the adjective appears only in Epic and Classical Sanskrit, in the Manusmriti and in the Mahabharata. The language referred to as saṃskṛta "the cultured language" has by definition always been a "sacred" and "sophisticated" language, used for religious and learned discourse in ancient India, and contrasted with the languages spoken by the people, prākṛta- "natural, artless, normal, ordinary".

Classical Sanskrit is the standard register as laid out in the grammar of Pāṇini, around the 4th century BCE. Its position in the cultures of Greater India is akin to that of Latin and Greek in Europe and it has significantly influenced most modern languages of the Indian subcontinent, particularly in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Nepal.

The pre-Classical form of Sanskrit is known as Vedic Sanskrit, with the language of the Rigveda being the oldest and most archaic stage preserved, its oldest core dating back to as early as 1500 BCE. This qualifies Rigvedic Sanskrit as one of the oldest attestations of any Indo-Iranian language, and one of the earliest attested members of the Indo-European languages, the family which includes English and most European languages.



[NOTE: The article "Sanskrit" 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.]

JANMASHTAMI or SRI KRISHNA JAYANTHI or ASHTAMI ROHINI

Krishna Janmashtami ( कृष्ण जन्माष्टमी kṛṣṇa janmāṣṭami), also known as Krishnashtami, Saatam Aatham, Gokulashtami, Ashtami Rohini, Srikrishna Jayanti, Sree Jayanti or sometimes merely as Janmashtami, is an annual commemoration of the birth of the Hindu deity Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu.

The festival is celebrated on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of the month of Bhadrapada (August–September; However, in both traditions it is the same day. So, we have works like Vishnudharmottara Purana saying Krishna Ashtami is in the Bhadrapada month and Skanda Purana stating that it falls in the month of Shravana) in the Hindu calendar. Rasa lila, dramatic enactments of the life of Krishna, are a special feature in regions of Mathura and Vrindavan, and regions following Vaishnavism in Manipur. While the Rasa lila re-creates the flirtatious aspects of Krishna's youthful days, the Dahi Handi celebrate God's playful and mischievous side, where teams of young men form human towers to reach a high-hanging pot of butter and break it. This tradition, also known as uriadi, is a major event in Tamil Nadu on Gokulashtami.

Fasting Rules on Krishna Janmashtami

No grains should be consumed during Janmashtami fasting until the fast is broken on next day after Sunrise. All rules followed during Ekadashi fasting should be followed during Janmashtami fasting also.

Parana which means breaking the fast should be done at an appropriate time. For Krishna Janmashtami fasting, Parana is done on next day after Sunrise when Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra are over. If Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra don't get over before Sunset then fast can be broken during day time when either Ashtami Tithi or Rohini Nakshatra is over. When neither Ashtami Tithi nor Rohini Nakshatra is over before Sunset or even Hindu Midnight (also known as Nishita Time) one should wait to get them over before breaking the fast.

Depending on end timing of Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra fasting on Krishna Janmashtami might continue for two complete days. Devotees who are not able to follow two days fasting might break the fast on next day after Sunrise. It has been suggested by Hindu religious text Dharmasindhu.

[RITUALS] Homam

A Homam is a ritual performed with fire. It is also called “Havan”or “Yajna”. Our body is considered to be made up of five elements – Earth, Fire, Water, Sky and Wind. Of these, “Fire” is considered as the symbol of energy which brings forth creation and life. Hence, worship of “Fire” or “Agni” has been practiced by our ancestors since the Vedic ages. It is believed that Gods come into the fire and receive the prayers and offerings that are poured into the sacred fire.

GANAPATHY HOMAM / GANPATHY HAVAN:

Om Gan ganapathiye namah.....om avighnamasthu

All of us are endowed with a Gross body i.e the one that can be seen and felt as well as a subtle body which functions within. The body has many fires burning within. There is the “Jathara Agni or the digestive fire which helps to digest all the food that is ingested. There is also the “Bhuta Agni” which is the inner transformative power – it can be thought of as a fire that helps to digest all the mental/emotional learning that we take in. The subtle body is sustained by the Bhuta Agni which then helps to attain spiritual awakening.

Over time, the “Bhuta Agni” is weakened due to clogs caused by feelings such as desire, anger, greed, ego, lust and jealousy. This needs to be cleaned by spiritual thought, one-pointed devotion, positive emotions such as love, compassion and generosity. It is considered that the “Homam” or ritual with the external fire helps to strengthen/rekindle and energize this “Bhuta Agni” towards the spiritual goals.

Lord Ganesha is always worshiped before starting any Pooja or Homa and on all auspicious occasions. Lord Ganesha is also known as ‘Vigneshwara’ [vigna + Eswara] which means the lord who removes all obstructions (Vighna). Lord Ganesha or Mahaganapathi is believed to remove obstacles not only in the material world but also in one’s spiritual progress. Mahaganapathi is also worshiped as a very important deity for Kundalini awakening and Kundalini rise, which is the first step in self-realization. The Mahaganapathi homam is performed by people desiring progress in various material pursuits as well as those seeking liberation and spiritual awakening.

Ganapathy Homam should be performed in the early morning and Poornahuthi to be offered during sunrise.

To perform Ganapathy Homam the following materials are required:

1. Ghee
2. Modhaka (a kind of sweet prepared with coconut, jaggery and rice flour or wheat flour)
3. Durva (a kind of grass).

The Ahuti / offering into the fire is called Ashta Dravya which is a mixture of the following eight materials

1. Coconut
2. Banana
3. Honey
4. Sugarcane
5. Ghee
6. Modhaka
7. Jaggery
8. Puffed rice.

While it is good to follow the procedure faithfully, what is even more important to offer ones “Ego” to be melted into the sacred fire. Complete devotion and single-minded focus on deity/mantra/procedure and burning one’s ego leads to full satisfaction and peace on performing the Homam.


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[NOTE: The article "[RITUALS] Homam" 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. ]

Ashta Lakshmi - The Eight Aspects or Representations of Goddess Lakshmi

Ashta Lakshmi (Ashta means eight + Lakshmi means the Goddess of wealth) signifies the eight divine aspects of Ma Lakshmi. The eight representations emphasize different forms of wealth. Wealth has many forms other than the obvious one of money. You need different types of wealth and resources to be rich in a real sense. Physical, financial, spiritual and material wealth are all needed to complete life's various needs.

Goddess Mahalakshmi represents wealth and prosperity, luck and fortune. Her eight aspects are:

Dhan Lakshmi or Vaibhav Lakshmi:
Wealth of money and riches : "Dhan" and "Vaibhav" mean money, riches, fortune and income. It is the usual way we perceive and understand wealth. This wealth is of great importance to one who wishes to live an enriched and happy life.

Gaja Lakshmi:
Wealth of Elephants or vehicles : "Gaj" means elephant and it symbolizes the vehicles we use to transport ourselves. It also means mobility in life and ease of travel.

Adi Lakshmi:
Wealth of endless prosperity. Goddess of no beginnings or end : "Adi" means eternal existence. Adi Lakshmi signifies the never-ending nature of the Goddess. She has no start and no end. She is continuous. Wealth should therefore, flow continuously also. It too has always been there and always will be there.

Vijaya Lakshmi:
Wealth of victory, perserverance, courage, and confidence : "Vijay" means victory. This Goddess symbolizes the wealth of courage, confidence, fearlessness and victory. This wealth strengthens our character and keeps us moving along successfully on our life path.

Dhairya Lakshmi:
Wealth of patience, strategy, planning, objectivity : "Dhairya" means patience. This wealth gives us the spiritual strength to face good and bad times with equal ease. It signifies the importance of planning and strategy in all our actions so we may move with caution and reach our target each time.

Dhanya Lakshmi
Wealth of grain, food, nourishment, and health : "Dhanya" means grain. Food is our most basic and most important wealth. We need food to sustain life. Being wealthy means we have abundance of food that keeps us nourished and healthy.

Vidya Lakshmi:
Wealth of education, knowledge, skills : "Vidya" means knowledge. To be knowledgeable means that we have skills of various kinds. We have general information about our local, national, and international issues. We can partake in sharing information.

Santan Lakshmi:
Wealth of children, legacy, family, friends, well wishers : "Santan" means children. Goddess Lakshmi symbolizes the social nature of man. We need each other. Children are our wealth. They are our future. The family is the basic unit of people who bring up their children. Life moves forward through its children.

Goddess Lakshmi is depicted as a woman. Most of the time, she is prayed as a mother or Ma Lakshmi. Just like a soft hearted mother she loves us and guides us. She easily grants us her blessings and boons, if we seek it. Praying to her with devotion will always fulfill your wishes.





[NOTE: The article "Ashta Lakshmi - The Eight Aspects or Representations of Goddess Lakshmi" 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.]

Mahabharata Quiz

QUESTION 1: Only ten people survived the great war which lasted eighteen days. The amount of blood that was shed was so much that the soil in this region is dark as compared to its surroundings. Can you name the ten survivors?

ANSWER

Kripacharya
Kritivarma
Ashwatthama
Saatyaki
Yudhisthir
Bhima
Arjuna
Nakula
Sahdeva
Krishna


QUESTION 2: We all know that the Sun's chariot has seven horses. This was made popular by the Hindi film titled 'Suraj ka Saatvan Ghoda'.

ANSWER

Gayatri
Bhruhati
Ushnik
Jagati
Tristubh
Anustubh
Pankti


QUESTION 3: Draupadi bore a son to each of the five Pandava brothers.The five sons were killed by Ashwatthama while they were asleep. This occurred just after the victory over Duryodhana and the culmination of the war. Can you name the five sons?

ANSWER

Yudhisthir's son Prativindhya
Bhima's son Sutsoma
Arjuna's son Shrutakirti
Nakula's son Shataaneek
Sahdeva's son Shrutsen


QUESTION 4: It is believed that Krishna had 16 108 wives. In reality, the 16 100 'wives' were captives of Narkasura. When Krishna killed the asura the captive women desired to be with Krishna. Hence they were brought to Dwarka. Krishna married eight women. Can you name the eight women Krishna actually married?

ANSWER

Rukmini
Satyabhama
Jambwati
Sukeshi
Suprabha
Mitravinda
Sudatta
Lakshmana


QUESTION 5: The Mahabharata was like the world war of the twentieth century for the Kshatriyas of the ancient times. Prior to the war, while Lord Krishna was negotiating for peace the Pandavas and Kauravas were busy engaging other smaller armies for warfare.

Two famous kshatriyas did not fight the war although they were very close to the actual participants of the Mahabharata. Can you name them?

ANSWER

Balaram, brother of Krishna. His reason was that the sons of Pandu and Dhritrashtra were equally close to him. 

Rukmi, brother of Rukmini. As a brother in law of Krishna and commander of a powerful army he could not be ignored. Yet the Pandavas rejected his offer of help because Rukmi had been inimical to Krishna before. Rukmi,then went to Duryodhana who turned down the offer of help since Rukmi had already been rejected by Yudhisthir.


QUESTION 6: The Pandavas had other wives beside Draupadi. The other wives bore a son each. Can you name them?

ANSWER

Yudhisthir / Devika // Yaudheya
Bhimasen / Balandhara // Sarvag 
Hidimba// Ghatotkacha
Arjuna / Subhadra // Abhimanyu 
Ulupi // Iraavaan 
Chitrangada // Babhruvaahan.
Nakula / Karenumati // Niramitra
Sahadeva / Vijaya // Suhotra


QUESTION 7: There are seven chiranjeevis (who shall live forever)according to our Epics. Name them.

ANSWER

Ashwatthama
Bali
Vyaasa
Hanumaan
Vibhishana
Kripacharya
Parashurama


QUESTION 8: Dronacharya was killed by Dhrishtadyumna, the son of Drupada. Who killed Dhrishtadyumna?

ANSWER

Dronacharya's son, Ashwatthama. After the 18 days of war, when the tired, victorious warriors were sleeping in the night Ashwatthama killed them all. Thus the only survivors of the war were those mentioned at Q No 1.


QUESTION 9: The updesh of the Lord, Bhagvad Gita, was just after Yudhishthir and the Pandavas sought the benediction of the elders and just before the start of use of weapons. How many shlokas does the Bhagvad Gita contain?

ANSWER

Total shlokas in the Bhagvad Gita are 701.


QUESTION 10: What was the name of Karna's divine bow? Who gave it to him?

ANSWER 

The bow was known as 'Vijay'. Parashuram had given this bow to Karna.


QUESTION 11: Karna had the amogh 'Shakti' weapon which he saved for use against Arjuna. But he had to use it against some other person. On whom did he use it?

ANSWER

Ghatotkacha, the son of Bhima and rakshasi Hidimba.


QUESTION 12: Only four people knew how to enter into a 'Chakravyuh'. Can you name them?

ANSWER

Krishna
Arjuna
Pradyumna, son of Krishna
Abhimanyu, son of Arjuna. Abhimanyu did not know how to come out of the Chakravyuh.


QUESTION 13: The sound of the conch was a signal of enthusiasm and victory. Can you name the conches of Krishna and the five Pandavas?

ANSWER

Krishna - Paanchjanya
Yudhisthir -- Anantvijaya
Bhima -- Paundra
Arjuna -- Devadutta
Nakula -- Sughosha
Sahdeva -- Manipushpaka


QUESTION 14: During the game of dice and the subsequent vastraharan of Draupadi, Krishna was not present. Where was he?

ANSWER

Krishna was busy fighting a long drawn battle with Shalva.


QUESTION 15: Just as Sita was kidnapped during the exile of Rama in the forest, Draupadi too suffered the same fate during the thirteen years 'Vanvaas'.Ravana had kidnapped Sita. Who kidnapped Draupadi?

ANSWER

Jayadratha. Jayadratha was the husband of Duryodhana's only sister, Dusshala.


QUESTION 16: What was the name of Duryodhana's son. How did he die?

ANSWER

Duryodhana's son was known as Lakshmana. He was killed by Abhimanyu, Arjuna's son.


QUESTION 17: Parikshit, son of Abhimanyu and Uttara was the sole survivor of the Pandavas. He had four sons. Can you name them?

ANSWER

The four sons were Janmejaya. Shukdevaji narrated the entire Srimad Bhagavatam to Janmejaya when he had only seven days to live.
Shrutasena
Ugrasena
Bhimasena


QUESTION 18: In ancient times the charioteer played a very important role for the warrior. Indra's great charioteer established the scale of excellence with which all others were compared. What is the name of Indra's charioteer.

ANSWER

Maatali.


QUESTION 19: After observing the sheer power of the atomic bombs dropped at Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the famous American Scientist J R Oppenheimer quoted a line from the Bhagvad Gita. Can you name the shloka?

ANSWER

J R Oppenheimer said "Brighter than a thousand suns !" The translation of the complete Shloka (Chapter 11 - Shloka 12) is: The splendor of the mighty Lord is brighter than a thousand suns bursting forth all at once in the heavens.


QUESTION 20: Who were the Commanders-in-chief of the Kaurava Army and for how long?

ANSWER

Bhisma for 10 days
Drona for 5 days
Karna for 2 days
Shalya for half a day.

After the mace duel between Duryodhana and Bhima, the former, with broken thighs, waited for death. During this time Ashwatthama arrived and told of his intention to kill the sleeping Pandava survivors. Duryodhana was very pleased with the idea and asked Guru Kripacharya to anoint Ashwatthama as Commander-in-chief.

The Ten Scriptural Samskaras

The rites that pertain to the stages of life of man are called Samskaras. The Samskaras are purificatory rites which sanctify the life of the Hindu. They give a spiritual touch to the important events in the life of the individual from conception to cremation. They mark the important stages of a man’s life. Just as the outline of a picture is lighted up slowly with the filling in of many colours, so also is Brahmanya with scriptural Samskaras. There are the Samskaras of childhood, of boyhood, of manhood and of old age and death.

There are fiftytwo Samskaras. Among these, ten are important. The ten principal and generally recognised Samskaras are: Garbhadana, Pumsavana, Simantonnayana, Jatakarma, Namakarana, Annaprasana, Chudakarma, Upanayana, Samavartana and Vivaha. Of these ten, only some are now performed. Some of the Samskaras pertain to infantile life and early childhood. Some are ceremonies which may be performed daily or on special occasions. The whole life of the Hindu is thus consecrated and protected from the cradle to the grave.

Garbhadana

The Garbhadana sanctifies the creative act. The husband prays fervently from the core of his heart that a child may be conceived. He repeats sacred Mantras during Ritu-Santi ceremony or nuptials. The new child is conceived amidst the vibration of Mantras. Good impressions are impressed in the brain-cells of the embryo. For a real Hindu who is endowed with pure intellect and right understanding, the sexual union is not for the sake of mere enjoyment. He utilises the divine, creative, vital energy for the formation of a human body. Husband and wife should be cheerful and pious when they have intercourse. When their minds are perturbed or agitated, or when there is anger or hatred, they should avoid copulation. They should study holy scriptures. If they have the image of Arjuna, they will have a chivalrous and wise son. If they have the image of Lord Buddha, they will bring forth a son with mercy and other good virtues. If they have the image Of Dhanvantari, they will get a son who will turn out to be a reputed Ayurvedic doctor. If they think of Surya or Sun-God, they will bring forth a lustrous son with splendour and effulgence.

Pumsavana

In the third month, the Pumsavana is performed with Mantras. The food-sheath and the vital-sheath of the child are formed.

Simantonnayana

The Simantonnayana is performed at the seventh month with recitation of Veda Mantras. This protects the mother from evil influences and bestows health on the child. The above three Samskaras protect the mother and the child. The body of the child develops nicely. The harmonious vibrations set up by the recitation of Mantras and the performance of the ceremonies help in shaping the body of the child beautifully.

Jatakarma

The next Samskara, the ceremony performed immediately after the birth of the child, is the Jatakarma. The father welcomes his new-born child. He prays for its long life, intelligence and well-being, and feeds it with honey and butter.

Namakarana

Then comes Namakarana or the naming ceremony. The new-born child is given a name on the tenth, eleventh or twelfth day with recitation of Mantras.

Annaprasana

The Annaprasana comes in the sixth month when the child is given solid food for the first time. Mantras are recited and oblations are offered to the various deities.

Chudakarma

The Chudakarma, the tonsure or shaving of the head, is performed in the first or third year. The Karnavedha or ear-boring ceremony is performed in the fifth or the seventh year or at the end of the first year with the Chudakarma. The body of the child is protected and harmonised by these ceremonies. Any hereditary defect that arises from defect of semen and embryo is removed. Vidyarambha also is another Samskara. Alphabet is taught to the child. This is also known by the name Aksharabhyasa. These Samskaras pertain to the child stage of life.

Upanayana

The most important ceremony which marks the beginning of the next stage of life—the stage of youth—is Upanayana. Upanayana is a very important Samskara. It is a landmark in the life of the child. It is his second or spiritual birth. The word Upanayana means bringing near.

The boy is brought near his Guru, spiritual teacher. The preceptor invests him with the sacred thread, Yajnopavita, and initiates him by giving him the Gayatri Mantra, and gives him a staff. This is the beginning of Brahmacharya Asrama, during which Brahmacharya—perfect or entire celibacy—is enjoined. He is to begin the life of study. The initiation makes him a Dvija, twice-born. The father and the mother gave birth to him from mutual desire. This is his physical birth. Initiation into Gayatri Mantra is his another, true birth. According to Yajnavalkya, the Upanayana ceremony is performed at the eighth year for a Brahmana, eleventh for a Kshatriya and twelfth for a Vaisya. Manu gives the age at the fifth year for a Brahmana, the sixth for a Kshatriya and the eighth for a Vaisya.

Significance of the Sacred Thread and Other Symbols

The sacred thread or Yajnopavita consists of three threads knotted together. He who wears the thread should have a triple control, over his mind, speech and body—thought, word and deed. The holy thread signifies the various triads which exist in the world, viz., Sat, Chit and Ananda; creation, preservation and destruction; the three states of waking, dreaming and deep sleep; the three qualities of Sattva, Rajas and Tamas; the Trimurtis Brahma, Vishnu and Siva; etc.

The staff signifies that the student should have control over his thoughts, words and actions. He who practises control over his thoughts, words and actions, and he who practises Brahmacharya in thought, word and deed, attains perfection.

The boy wears a Kaupina, a small yellow cloth and a girdle of Munja grass. The Acharya puts on him a deerskin. The new yellow cloth represents the new body. Yellow colour is a symbol of spirituality. Wearing of Kaupina indicates that the boy should lead a pure life of perfect celibacy. The girdle is wound round thrice. This indicates that the boy has to study the Samhitas, the Brahmanas and the Upanishads. The deer-skin represents the ascetic life he should lead.

Samavartana

Then comes the end of the student stage, the Samavartana. The student, having completed the Vedic studies and the Vratas, presents his preceptor with a gift and obtains permission to take the formal bath which marks the close of his student-career. He returns home and performs the Samavartana, the returning ceremony. He is now ready to marry and enter the second stage or Grihastha Asrama, the life of a householder.

Vivaha

Vivaha is marriage or entry into the second Asrama. The life of the householder begins. Now he takes up his duties as man and pays his spiritual debts by sacrifice, by study and by procreating children. The bridegroom tells the bride: “I take your hand for good fortune.” They walk round the sacred fire hand-in-hand. The bride sacrifices grains in the fire and prays: “May my husband live long. May my relations increase.”

The Last Two Stages Of Life

There are two more stages, viz., Vanaprastha and Sannyasa, with their rites.

Man withdraws himself from all worldly activities, retires into the forest and prepares himself for taking Sannyasa. This is the life of a Vanaprastha.

A Sannyasin renounces the world and leads a life of study and meditation by living on alms.

Pretakarma is funeral rite. When a man dies, the funeral ceremonies are performed by his son and heir.



Via: http://www.dlshq.org/download/hinduismbk.htm

Hindu Rituals - Sandhyopasana / Sandhyavandanam

Sandhyopasana literally means ‘worship at the junctions of time.’ It is a prayer and worship offered to the Lord at the junction (Sandhi) of night and morning, forenoon and afternoon and at the junction of evening and night. The Arghyapradana to the sun and the meditation on and recitation of Gayatri, form the heart of the worship. Properly understood, the whole Sandhya is an earnest prayer addressed to the Lord to forgive all one’s sins committed during one’s routine, daily activities and to bestow illumination and grace.

Sandhyopasana must be performed at the proper Sandhyas. Then only the performer can derive much merit. There is a special manifestation of force at Sandhyas. This force disappears when the Sandhya is past.

An Obligatory Duty

Sandhyopasana is the daily religious practice of the Hindus whose investiture with the holy thread has been performed. Sandhya is a Nitya Karma or an action that is to be done daily. Sandhya is an obligatory duty to be performed daily for self-purification and self-improvement.

Sandhya should be performed by all followers of the Sanatana Dharma. Every Brahmachari and every householder must perform it every day. If he fails to perform it, there is Pratyavaya Dosha or the sin of omission. He loses his Brahma-Tejas.

According to the Hindu Sastras, a Brahmana, a Kshatriya and a Vaisya will get hell, if they do not perform three times Sandhyopasana (Traikalika Sandhya) daily. It is for the purpose of Sandhya only, the law of Yajnopavita-Samskara is laid down in the Yajnavalkya Smriti which says: “The Brahmana in his eighth year, the Kshatriya in his eleventh year and the Vaisya in his twelfth year are fit to be given Yajnopavita.” Because, only after this particular Samskara, they are supposed to be worthy to worship Sandhya and take to Vedic rites. They should keep themselves pure internally and externally. They can nicely understand the sacred glory of this divine science.

Benefits Of Sandhyopasana

Sandhya is a combination of Japa, Upasana, Svadhyaya, meditation, concentration, Asana, Pranayama, etc. He who does Sandhya daily has Brahma-Tejas or spiritual lustre, in his face. A man who performs his daily Sandhya, according to the prescribed rules, at the appointed time as laid down in the scriptures, attains purity and success in his every effort. He becomes powerful as well as calm. Regular Sandhya cuts the chain of old Samskaras and changes everybody’s old situation entirely. It brings purity, Atma-Bhava, devotion and sincerity.

The Ceremony

The important features of this ceremony are: (i) Achamana or sipping of water with recitation of Mantras (viz., Achyutaya Namah, Anantaya Namah, Govindaya Namah, etc.), Marjana or sprinkling of water on the body which purifies the mind and the body, Aghamarshana or expiation for the sins of many births, and Surya Arghya or oblations of water to the Sun-god, (ii) Pranayama or control of breath which steadies the wandering mind, and silent recitation of Gayatri, (iii) Upasthana or religious obeisance.

Arghya

The first part up to Arghya consists of hymns addressed to water and its benefits. The sprinkling of water on the face and the head and the touching of the different organs (the mouth, nose, eyes, ears, chest, shoulders, head, etc.) with wetted fingers, are meant to purify those parts of the body and invoke the respective presiding deities on them. They also stimulate the nerve-centres and wake up the dormant powers of the body.

The Arghya drives the demons who obstruct the path of the rising sun. Esoterically, lust, anger and greed are the demons who obstruct the intellect from rising up. The intellect is the sun.

Pranayama and Japa

The second part of Sandhya consists of Pranayama and Japa of Gayatri.

Suryopasthana

The third part of Sandhya is the Suryopasthana. It is a prayer for forgiveness, mercy and grace. The prayer is: “Let me not go down to the earthly house. Have mercy, O Lord! My strength was very weak, O Lord! I did wrong actions. Have mercy, O Lord!” These are Vedic hymns addressed to the sun in the morning, noon and evening. The sun is the intellect in man. Ignorance is the night. Knowledge is the light. When you rise up from the darkness of ignorance, when the eye of intuition is opened through the grace of Gayatri, the Blessed Mother of the Vedas, you attain eternal bliss, supreme peace and immortality. It is that divine light which dispels delusion and the darkness of ignorance. It is that adorable splendour with which the world is glowing. It is that holy lustre which graciously fills the heart of a devotee with eternal bliss. It is this supreme Light which the aspirant craves from God through the Gayatri Mantra. He begs of God this Knowledge for his Realisation.

Sandhyopasana - An Exact Science

Man naturally wants to realise the Truth. He wants to know the secret of Creation. In this connection, scriptures emphatically declare: “Only at the moment when all doubts are cleared, ignorance is destroyed, hypocrisy and cruelty are rent asunder, and when a man sees Him in the abode of his heart, the real and ultimate Truth is revealed.”

Sandhya-Vijnana or the Science of Sandhya is an exact science to attain success in the realm of Truth. One need not have any kind of superstition to learn this divine science. One need not prove its greatness. Its greatness, its glory, is open truth. Even the materialistic society of today agrees with the truth of Sandhya-Vijnana. In the scriptures, it is laid: “Brahmanhood is the tree, Sandhya is its root, Vedas are its branches, religious acts are its leaves; therefore take care of its root, i.e., Sandhya.” Now the glory of Sandhya is very clear. Sandhya is absolutely necessary for a man who is treading the path of Truth. Aharahah Sandhyamupasita, i.e., a Brahmin should perform regularly his daily Sandhya at any cost—is the injunction of the scriptures.

Prerequisites For The Practice Of Sandhya

Diet

If you want to learn this science, you must be careful about your diet. Take regular and light Sattvic food. Man is much influenced by his diet. See the difference between a small lion and a big elephant. You will be able to improve yourself by adjusting your diet. Idleness is due to a variety of rich diet only. Therefore, be strict in your daily diet. You will be ever active and strong.

Sitting Pose

A man who performs Sandhya does not care about his sitting pose. He sits in any posture. This is not much beneficial. He should daily sit in a perfect posture, Padmasana or Sukhasana, facing the particular direction. As far as possible, he must finish his Sandhya in one sitting. He must have perfect mastery over Asana. Then he will have concentration in his Sandhya.

Faith and Devotion

You must do your Sandhya with faith and devotion. Mere repetition will not bring much good. Pray from the core of your heart to the Lord to forgive your sins.

A Word To The Younger Generation

Our young college students, who are under the influence of wrong Samskaras and wrong education and evil company, have forgotten all about the glory and high efficacy of Sandhya. They are not doing Sandhya. Sandhya has no meaning for them. They have become Godless men. They want laboratory tests and scientific proofs for the usefulness of Sandhya, before they begin to do Sandhya. It must be supported by the statements of western scientists. The words of ancient Rishis do not appeal to them. What a greatly degraded state!

O young students! Do not ruin yourself by neglecting Sandhya. Regular performance of Sandhya will give you success in life and material and spiritual prosperity, good health and long life, purity of heart, and help you to attain God-realisation. Do it from now at least. Yet there is hope for you. Wake up. Be sincere.

Now take strict resolve from this very moment to be regular in your daily Sandhya, even under many distractions and obstacles. Begin it from this very moment. Do not delay. Reduce your useless activities. Talk little. Do not mix much. You will get plenty of time for your Sandhya.

Be strict in your Sandhya. Let there be rain or wind. Even if the Pralaya comes, do not leave it half-done. Many people say that they have not got time to perform Sandhya. They have to attend several functions. This is due to their weakness and lack of good Samskaras. They do not know the glory of this divine science. If they see one of their friends sitting on the banks of the river and performing Sandhya, they will begin to shout or they will play some sort of mischief. But these poor creatures do not know what secret is hidden behind the Sandhya. The Secret of secrets is hidden in this sacred performance. This is why ancient Rishis say: “One who does not perform daily Sandhya is a real animal.”

May God give you the mind to perform daily Sandhya at any cost. May you follow the rules of Sandhya. May you realise the glory of Sandhya-Vijnana and be free from all tribulations and torments. May the divine science named Sandhya-Vijnana bestow purity, immense joy and immortality on you!




Via: http://www.dlshq.org/download/hinduismbk.htm