Ugram veeram mahavishnuum jwalanthum sarvathoo mugham Nrisimham bheeshannam bhadhram mrityumrityum namaamyaham
Sri Vitthal Chi Aarti
1/18/2015 Posted by Devesh Prabhu // No comments
Vamangi rakhumai dise divya shobha II
Pundlikache bheti parbrahmale ga II
Charani vahe bhima uddhari jaga II 1 II
Jai dev jai dev jai panduranga I
Rakhumai vallabha raichya vallabha pave
Jivlaga II Jai II
Tulsimala gala kar theoni katee II
Kanse pitambar kasturi lallatee I
Dev survar nitya yeti bheti II
Garud hanumant puddhe ubhe rahati
II Jai II 2 II
Dhanya venunad anukshetrapala I
Suvarnachi kamala vanmala gala II
Rani rakhumabai raniya sakala I
Ovaliti raja vithoba savala II Jai II 3 II
Ovaloo artya kurvandya yeti I
Chandrabhagemadhye soduniya deti II
Dindya pataka vaishanav nachati
Pandharicha mahima varnava kiti II Jai II 4 II
Ashaddhi kartiki bhaktajan yeti II
Chandrabhagemaji snane je kariti
Darshan helamatre taya hoy mukti II
Keshwasi namdev bhave ovaliti II Jai II 5 II
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[NOTE: The article "Sri Vitthal Chi Aarti" 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.]
Shattilla Ekadashi
1/18/2015 Posted by Devesh Prabhu // No comments
Some other names with which Shattila Ekadasi is famous among the people are: Shat-Tila Ekadashi, Stilla Ekadashi, Sattila Ekadashi, and Tilda Ekadashi. Lord Vishnu is worshiped on all the Ekadashis, but on Shattila Ekadashi, Lord Krishna is also worshiped.
The name of Shattila Ekadasi indicates about the food item that holds the maximum importance on this day i.e. Til. Consumption of Til or sesame seeds, charity of sesame seeds or even bathing with water having some sesame seeds in it, is considered highly auspicious. You will come to know about the significance of sesame seeds or Til and the story of Shattila Ekadashi by reading ahead. So, read on and know more about Shattila Ekadasi, before observing Shattila Ekadasi Vrat in 2015.
Legend Of Shattila Ekadashi :
As per the legend of Shattila Ekadasi, once there was an old lady, who had lots of wealth and money. She used to perform a lot of charity for the poor, in form of offerings like clothes, jewelry, and other precious items. But she never offered them food or grains.
Once, Lord Krishna converted himself in the form of a poor beggar and asked that rich lady for food. On the continuous demand for food, the lady became angry and she put a ball of clay in his pot. Beggar blessed her and left.
When she entered into her house, she saw that every food item is slowly changing into clay. She was having lots of wealth and money, but all was a complete waste because she was not able to eat anything. She was getting weaker and weaker, day by day. Then, she prayed to Lord Krishna for help.
Lord Krishna came into her dreams and reminded her the incident of the beggar. He also told her that by observing the fast of Shattila Ekadasi and offering food to the poor on that day, will help her in removing all her sins.
She observed the fast of Shattila Ekadashi and offered Til and food to the poor, after which everything returned to normal.
Shattila Ekadashi 2015: Gain auspiciousness from sesame seeds :
Follow these rituals on the day of Shattila Ekadasi in 2015 by using the Til or sesame seeds for acquiring the maximum auspiciousness.
- Mix some sesame seeds in the water for bathing.
- Make the paste of sesame seeds for rubbing on your body.
- Include the consumption of sesame seeds in your food.
- On the day of Shattila Ekadashi, give the sacrifice of sesame seeds in fire,.
- Offer sesame seeds to the poor in charity.
- Exchange gifts of sesame seeds.
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[NOTE: The article "[WHAT IS] Shattilla 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.]
Shivashtakam And Meaning
1/18/2015 Posted by Devesh Prabhu // No comments
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
1/20/2014 Posted by Devesh Prabhu // No comments
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
1/20/2014 Posted by Devesh Prabhu // No comments
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?
1/20/2014 Posted by Devesh Prabhu // No comments
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]
11/04/2013 Posted by Devesh Prabhu // No comments
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.
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[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.]
[WHY?] Why is the Ganesha idol immersed in water after the Ganesh Chaturthi festival?
9/03/2013 Posted by Devesh Prabhu // No comments
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
9/02/2013 Posted by Devesh Prabhu // No comments
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
8/25/2013 Posted by Devesh Prabhu // No comments
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
- Not shave the body, face or head
- Spread oils on one's body
- Do not lie; or participate in tough exercise or labor.
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
8/25/2013 Posted by Devesh Prabhu // No comments
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
8/25/2013 Posted by Devesh Prabhu // No comments
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
8/24/2013 Posted by Devesh Prabhu // No comments
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:
- Ghee
- Modhaka (a kind of sweet prepared with coconut, jaggery and rice flour or wheat flour)
- Durva (a kind of grass).
The Ahuti / offering into the fire is called Ashta Dravya which is a mixture of the following eight materials
- Coconut
- Banana
- Honey
- Sugarcane
- Ghee
- Modhaka
- Jaggery
- 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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Shri Yantra
8/23/2013 Posted by Devesh Prabhu // No comments
'Shri' or 'Shree' stands for Lakshmi and 'yantra' stands for device. Shri Yantra is a device that helps invoke the power of Lakshmi into our lives.
In tantrik tradition, this device is represented in a geometric format. It is a diagram of six intersecting triangles. The three upward pointing triangles represent the male energy and the three downward pointing triangles represent the female energy.
The intersections of the six triangles represent points of concentrated energy that signify fertility or creation. A 'bindu' or dot in the middle of the diagram is said to be the point where the Goddess Tripursundari or Lakshmi's female creative form exists.
The whole geometric design is encased in a lotus design, representing the universe or creation. The yantra symbol thus represents the creative aspect or fertile aspect of the cosmos.
The Shri yantra is a very powerful symbol that dispels all negative energy from its vicinity and fills it with positive, progressive, and auspicious energy.
It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi has great affection for the Shri Yantra and blesses those who possess it.
[NOTE: The article "Shri Yantra" 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
8/23/2013 Posted by Devesh Prabhu // No comments
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.]