The Special Worship of the Snake God Friday, 9 August, 2024
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FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK: 527TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF TULSIDAS Tulsidas(1497-1623C.E.)wasaHindusaintandthepoet.Tulsidasisrenowned for his great devotion towards Lord Rama. Tulsidas composed several works, but he is best known as the author of the epic Ramcharitmanas, a retelling of the Sanskrit Ramayana in the vernacular Awadhi language. Tulsidas was acclaimed to be a reincarnation of Maharishi Valmiki, the composer of the originalRamayanainSanskrit.
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YOGA: A POWERFUL MEDIUM FOR WOMEN EMPOWERMENT AND WORLD PEACE
inside
This year the theme of Yoga Day is based on women to promote the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual well-being of women by using yogaasatool. A TO Z INDIA: Editorial Address
FROM THE EDITOR
A TO Z INDIA magazine covers the Indian through his art, culture, lifestyle, religion, etc. This magazine gives an insight into the life of Indians from an angle uncovered by others. Turn to find out what it is about and to immerse yourself into an entirely different culture.
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EDITOR: Indira Srivatsa
ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Dwarak, Srivatsa
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A TO Z INDIA Magazine has made a constant care to make sure that content is accurate on the date of publication. The views expressed in the articles reflect the author(s) opinions.
TULSIDAS TULSIDAS
The Hindu Naga Panchami Festival 2024:
The Special Worship of the Snake God
Indira Srivatsa
Naga Panchami is a traditional worship of snakes or serpents observed by Hindus throughout India, Nepal and other countries where Hindu adherents live. The worship is offered on the fifth day of the bright half of the Lunar month of Shravana (July/August), according to the Hindu calendar. People make snakes out of clay, giving them different forms and colours. These serpent models are placed on a dais and offered milk. In some parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka, there are permanent temples of Serpent-Gods and special pooja is performed with pomp and grandeur.
There is special importance of snake-charmers too on this day, as they are offered milk and money. Digging of the earth is strictly forbidden on this day. In West Bengal, the Hindus worship ‘Devi Manasha’ with ‘Ashta Naag’, the Snake-Goddess on this tithi.
Nag Panchami 2024 Date, Puja Muhurat Timings:
Nag Panchami will be celebrated on Friday, August 9, 2024.
Nag Panchami Puja Muhurat – 06:15 AM to 08:44 AM (Duration – 02 Hours 29 Mins)
Panchami Tithi Begins – 12:36 AM on Aug 09, 2024
Panchami Tithi Ends – 03:14 AM on Aug 10, 2024
Nag Panchami: Significance And Rituals
Nag Panchami Vrat or fast is observed on the Panchami of the bright half of the month of Shravan. According to Garuda Purana, paintings of ‘Nag’ should be drawn on either side of the entrance (of the home) and worshipped. This is also known as ‘Bhitti Chitre Nag Puja’. Women offer food, laddoos and kheer (a typical dish made with a mixture of rice, milk and sugar) to Brahmins. Similar food is also offered to snakes and snake charmers.
The Story Behind The Nag Panchami Festival:
There are many stories behind the observance of Nag Panchami. The story mentioned below may interest you. Once upon a time, there lived a peasant who had two sons and one daughter. One day, while the peasant was ploughing the field, the plough ran over three baby snakes, eventually killing them. On seeing the death of her sons, the mother serpent lamented her sons’ death and decided to take revenge on the peasant. In the middle of the night, when the peasant and his family were asleep, the mother-serpent entered their house and bit the peasant, his wife and two sons. As a result, all of them died except the daughter. Next morning the mother-serpent again entered the house to kill the peasant’s daughter. She was very intelligent and hence, to propitiate the mother-snake offered her a bowlful of milk, and with folded hands requested her to forgive her father for the death of her beloved sons. She welcomed the serpent and asked for it to forgive her parents. Mother serpent was very pleased by this gesture and brought back to life the peasant, his wife and two sons whom she bit the previous night.
The Hindu Naga Panchami Festival 2024:
The Special Worship of the Snake God
Indira Srivatsa
Also, mother serpents gave blessings with a promise that on Shravan Shukla Panchami, the women who will worship a snake shall be protected for seven generations. That was the day of Nag Panchami, and since then snakes are worshipped to avoid snake bites. This tithi is also celebrated as ‘Kalki Jayanti’. On this special day, people influenced by Kaal Sarpa Dosha of Rahu and Ketu should also worship ‘Ashta Nag’ with ‘Sarpa Sutra’ and ‘Nag Gayatri’ to get rid of ill effects of this Dosha.
Nag Panchami Mantra: || Om Navkullaya Vidmahe Vishdantaaye Dhimahee Tanno Sarpah Prachodayat ||
Significance of Milk on Nag Panchami Festival:
One crucial story that stands relevant about feeding milk to snakes goes back to the Samudra Manthan. In the quest of finding Amrit by Devas and Asuras, a deadly poison named Alakatoom erupted from the ocean. It has the power to wipe out the entire universe. Lord Shiva drank the poison for saving the universe. While drinking, some droplets fell on earth, which were consumed by his snakes. The Devtas performed the Ganga Abhishek on Neelkantha and snakes for calming the effect of poison. Hence, the Nag Panchami is the representation of the whole mythological process.
Krishna Janmashtami 2024:
Janmashtami: Puja Timings, Rituals, Story, and Dates
Indira Srivatsa
Janmashtami commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, Lord Vishnu's eighth avatar on Earth. The birth of Lord Krishna represents the triumph of good over evil. On the day of Krishna Janmashtami, Lord Krishna devotees offer prayers, and various rituals inspired by the life of Baby Krishna are held throughout the country. Janmashtami 2024 is on August 26, Monday. 'Janm' means birth and 'Ashtami' means Eighth. Lord Krishna was the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu in which He was born as the eighth son of Vasudev and Yashoda on the eighth tithi.
When is Janmashtami celebrated?
Bhagavan Sri Krishna was born at midnight on Ashtami tithi (8th day) under Rohini Nakshatra. The month of Lord Krishna's birth is Shravan as per Amanta calendar and Bhadrapad in Purnimantha calendar. This corresponding to August - September months on English calendar and the exact date depends on the lunar cycle.
The story behind Sri Krishna Jayanti:
According to mythology, Krishna was the eighth child of Princess Devaki and her husband Vasudeva who belonged to the Yadava clan of Mathura. Devaki's brother Kansa, who was the king of Mathura at that time, killed all children that were given birth by Devaki in order to prevent him from a prediction that said that Kansa would be killed by Devaki's eighth son. When Krishna was born, Vasudeva took baby Krishna to his friend's house in Gokul, a district in Mathura. Thereafter, Krishna was brought up by Nanda and his wife Yashoda at Gokul.
Rituals of Sri Krishna Jayanti:
This holy day is celebrated in different parts of India according to various kinds of local traditions and rituals. People across the country who celebrate Sri Krishna Jayanti keep fasts on this day until midnight when Lord Krishna was born. As a symbol of His birth, the deity's idol is kept in a small cradle and prayers are offered. Bhajans and Bhagavad Gita recitals are done on this day. In Maharashtra, Dahi Handi is organized on local and regional scales. A human pyramid is formed in order to break an earthen pot filled with buttermilk. There is huge competition and prizes worth lakhs are announced as rewards for these events. In Uttar Pradesh, devotees in large number visit Krishna temples in the holy cities of Mathura and Vrindavan on this day.
Kolkata, India:
City of Joy Turned City of Sorrow
C.K. Subramaniam
City of Sorrow:
By C.K. Subramaniam
A-8-1-5
Millennium Towers Flat 5
Sector 9 Sanpada Navi Mumbai
Postal Code - 400705
email: cksumpire@gmail.com
Phone: 7977825401
The pathetic state of the city which was once a capital of British India, and a lovely city is now open for criticism. The city which has produced world class writers, artists, actors, politicians etc. is no longer a place of famous people. Now there is a dearth of class people and intellectuals in the society in the respective fields. There is no one to match Robindra sangeet. The class of Satyajit Ray, Mrinal Sen is missing from Tollywood. The melodious voice of Hemant Kumar is the talk of the past. There is no one to match with the beauty, charm and acting of Suchitra Sen and Sharmila Tagore. People are looking for the arrival of new actors who can match the acting skills of Uttam Kumar, Utpal Dutt and Sudip Chatterjee.
Calcutta had the distinction of producing finest sportsmen basically in all the sports. Who can forget the class and skill of Chunni Goswami, P. K. Banerjee. The booming service and never say die attitude of Leander Paes, Jaideep Mukerjee and Premjit Lal is simply missing from the tennis courts. The brilliance of Leslie Claudius is missing from the hockey fields. Although few players emerged on the cricketing scene, now nobody can match the class of Prince of Kolkata. In fact, the sporting scene and atmosphere is simply missing from the grounds of Kolkata nowadays. Similarly, the high-class writers, politicians, scientists are all talk of the past as new talent is simply missing from the scene. Once Calcutta was the hub of the Industrial and business activity of India. Most of the big businesses have shifted their offices to other parts of India. The major industrial houses have either closed down or are on the verge of closing down. In fact, most of the major industrial houses are afraid of opening new ventures in the capital or in the state of Bengal. The previous CPM government and now the present regime is responsible for all these setbacks.
Why is Kolkata dying? The answer is as most of the young talent of the city prefer to settle in any other city rather than remain here because of the two reasons. Firstly, there is a shortage of high-class institutions in the city for higher education. Although there are still very good schools in the city, for higher education and thereafter for the top-class employment they have to move outside. Kolkata simply failed to match good employment opportunities as provided by Bangalore, Mumbai, Hyderabad and other cities. Secondly and most importantly the settling down of Bangladeshis and Rohingyas in the city. They have arrived illegally and now somehow or other managed citizenship rights. They are simply nuisances and now started creating problems for the actual residents. The affluent and the young talent have decided to move outside to lead a better life rather than fight with the illegal migrants. In their opinion the Bangladeshis and Rohingyas will outnumber the actual residents of Kolkata within 20 years. The present government is simply sleeping on this alarming situation because of the political gains. The time is not far ahead that once the “City of Joy” will become the “City of Sorrow”.
By Surendra Agnihotri A-305, O.C.R. Vidhan Sabha Marg, Lucknow Postal Code - 226001 email: agnihotri1966@gmail.com Phone: 9415508695
The 10th celebration of International Yoga Day will be celebrated in India as well as in most of the countries around the world on 21st June 2024 with a new theme - ‘Yoga for women empowerment'. This year the theme of Yoga Day is based on women to promote the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing of women by using yoga as a tool. This will ensure that women are healthy, confident and play a leading role in society. Yoga is being made a medium to connect human beings. In 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had proposed to celebrate Yoga Day in the United Nations meeting, after which it was announced on 11 December 2014 to celebrate 21 June every year as International Yoga Day. Due to India's efforts regarding the importance of yoga, countries around the world started celebrating Yoga Day at the world level. Through Indian Yoga and Meditation, India is succeeding in achieving ‘Vishwa Guru’ status and a unique identity in the world. That is why International Yoga Day has been accepted by the whole world. The vision and efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has created an unusual atmosphere for the international acceptance of Yoga Day. Today every sphere of life is surrounded by problems due to pandemic, Great War, terrorism, rising inflation, poverty, unemployment, due to which every person and family is feeling extreme stress/pressure in their daily life. Everyone is living a life of doubt, conflict and mental turmoil. There is a crisis of life in front of man. Mental balance is getting disturbed. Mental balance means to establish harmony in different situations and to achieve this; the powerful and effective medium is yoga. Yoga is such a technique, a science that heals our body, mind, thoughts and soul. It removes our stress and frustration. When we do yoga, focus on the breath, do pranayama and exercise, all this inspires our body and mind to be happy and cheerful from within. Yoga is a powerful way to get rid of the hustle and bustle of life.
Yoga is the process of purifying and enlightening the consciousness of man, it is an undertaking to elevate man, it is a means to establish balance in life and it is the science of oneness with God and the universe. Realization of self is the task of life, the goal. This realization can neither be attained by discourse, nor can it be attained by intellect, nor by listening a lot, for that it is necessary to have self-realization and this realization happens only to the one whose conscience is pure and selfless. The pure conscience is the mirror in which the vision of the soul, the manifestation of nature and the vision of the self are seen. In a pure conscience, the intellect remains heavenly and clean, the mind as pure as the Ganges, the mind as steady as the light of a motionless lamp without wind, and the entire consciousness flowing like rivers to meet the ocean. Just as one's face is visible in the mirror only when the mirror is clear and stable, similarly the Supreme power of self is visible only through a pure conscience. Yoga is such an effective form of exercise, through which balance is created not only in the parts of the body but also in the mind, and soul. This is the reason that apart from physical ailments, mental problems can also be overcome by yoga. The importance of yoga, which is found in our Vedas or even earlier literature, today the same yoga is gaining its fame all over the world and due to the corona crisis, the usefulness of yoga has increased more than before. Seeing its benefits, everyone seems to be adopting it in their rushing life and life crisis caused by epidemics, war, violence, economic instability and terrorism. Slowly, but people are understanding that by doing yoga, not only the biggest diseases can be driven away but also happiness can be brought in their life, life can be balanced, Work-efficiencies can be increased, peace and harmony can be established.
Yoga is the only way for physical, mental and spiritual peace of health. But in the occult age, the history of yoga is hidden in the infinite depths of time. By the way, some people also believe that the science of yoga is older than the Vedas. In the excavations done by the Archaeological Department of Harappa and Mohenjodaro, many such sculptures have been found in which Shiva and Parvati are shown performing various yogasanas. Swami Vivekananda, who promoted Indian Yoga to the world, says – “A pure heart is the best mirror for the reflection of truth. That's why all spiritual practice is for purifying the heart. When it becomes pure, all the truths are reflected in it at that very moment. Unholy imagination is as bad as unholy acts." Modern materialistic and convenient life is pushing man towards disturbance, imbalance, tension, fatigue and irritability, due to which the disorder is increasing. Yoga is such a powerful medicine that keeps the mind cool, and the body fit to keep such heterogeneous and discrepant life healthy and energetic. The pace of life can be given a musical pace through yoga. Yoga is the oldest identity of our Indian culture. The awakening of Yoga-consciousness leads to purification of the mind. Its process is to see the soul through the soul. Observing the tendencies and states of mind by the free consciousness of attachment and aversion. Right philosophy is a powerful undertaking to transform the Self. The secretions of the glandular system are balanced by the experiments of self-realization. Due to this the feelings remain pure, thoughts become healthy. The word yoga is derived from the age of culture, which means the union of the soul with the universal consciousness. Yoga has been practiced for more than ten thousand years. According to the Vedic Samhitas, it is mentioned in the Vedas about the ascetics since ancient times. Sculptures depicting yoga and meditation were also found in the Indus Valley Civilization. In Hinduism, Yoga civilization was adopted by sages, monks and yogis from the very beginning, but not much time has passed since this method has spread among the common people. However, knowing the glory and importance of yoga, it is being adopted extensively for a healthy lifestyle, mainly because of its positive effects in busy, stressful and unhealthy routines. Yoga is necessary for us to stay healthy. Through yoga, you can benefit from many diseases like asthma, diabetes, blood pressure, and arthritis. Yoga removes stress and gets good sleep, appetite is good, not only this, digestion is also improved. Body fat can be reduced only through yoga. When man takes shelter of yoga to solve his physical, mental and spiritual problems and get their solution, then he connects with yoga, makes relationships, tries to bring it into life. But when one starts knowing something about it, knowing it steps in the process of action, then it reaches the limit of use. By making the role of this experiment an integral part of life, we can give a new shape to humanity.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is deeply interested in Yoga, has implemented it with a great resolution. Surely his yoga-revolution will become the medium of development, happiness and peace in the life of world humanity. Yoga not only teaches how to live a beautiful and orderly life, but also teaches the art of improving personality, communal harmony, good governance and balanced life. Those who do politics in the name of yoga are doing great harm to humanity. Because Yoga is not associated with any religion, sect, caste or language. Yoga means to unite, so it talks about love, non-violence, compassion and taking everyone along. Yoga is an investigation into the process of life. It came into existence before all religions and it opened up infinite possibilities before human beings. This science related to inner and spiritual development, human welfare is a great gift for the whole world.
Lalit Garg
By Lalit Garg
Columnist
Shri Krishan Janamashtami:
Braj celebrates Shri Krishan Janamashtami
Dr. Gopal Chaturvedi
By Dr. Gopal Chaturvedi Vrindavan based Renowned Writer and Senior Journalist HR-1, 006, Shri Krishan Sardam Colony, Gate No. 2, Chatikara Road, Vrindavan - 281121, Distt. Mathura (U.P.) email: radhakant281121@gmail.com Phone: 9412178154
Shri Krishan Janamashtami:
Braj celebrates Shri Krishan Janamashtami
Dr. Gopal Chaturvedi
By Dr. Gopal Chaturvedi
Vrindavan based Renowned Writer and Senior Journalist
UNMATCHED is the appearance of Lord Krishna with any another heavenly appearance on the earth. He was born at Mathura’s Janambhoomi in Samvat 3168 on eight day of Bhadrapad at Midnight in Rohini Nakshatra. He delivered message of Divine love and unmatched tolerance to the world. In his lifetime, he delivered his divine message of unmatched love for all and passion towards all living beings.
Shri Krishna Janamashtami is celebrated with great fervor throughout the world but in Braj there is joy and happiness of unparallel scale to match with any part of the world, an unimaginable happiness and joy is visible in all household of Braj. It is like that in all households of Braj a birthday of the youngest Child in the family is celebrated.
At Nandgaon, the birthday month festivities start from Raksha Bandhan. As per ancient traditions, continuing till day festive singing and dancing starts from 2 day of Bhadrapad and in Nand Bhawan the music is played on Mandolin and Chav devotees start congratulating each other and ladies of Braj start dancing and sing to the tune of “Braj bhayo hai Mahir ke poot....” and “Rani chir jeeva tera Shaym......” On the day of Shri Krishan Janamashtami, the programmes and rituals start from a very early morning to last for the full day. On the 7th day of Bhadrapad, one day before Janamashtami in the evening, an offering of Sira-Poori and other delicious dishes are offered to Maharani Yasohda in all temples of Braj and to enhance the joy of Shri Krishnas’ birth, all houses, open areas and even small lanes are decorated tastefully, and every household has a special menu for the family on Lord’s Birthday. On the 8th day of Bhadrapad, a tradition of fasting is observed in almost all household of Braj and more devout do not even drink water on this day. On all household and temples, there is a special offering of Sweet Coriander powder and Panchaamrit. All day long, the program of Bhajans and kirtan continues to build up the tempo of the festivity and as soon as the clock strikes 11.45 in the night, all temples and household blow the Conch and Bells which reverberate through the Braj. This is the time when all Braj is bathing their Lord Krishna’s deity with Pancahamrit.
Most elaborate birthday celebrations are held at Shri Krishna Janam Bhoomi at Mathura. Devotees sing and dance to tune of the lines:
“Nand ke Anand Bhaye, Jai Kanhiya lal ki Jawanan ko Hathi Ghora, Boodhan ko Palki”
This special celebration day is the only day when Morning Mangla aaarti is performed at Banke-Bihari temple in Vrindavan and entire temples in Braj and deity of Shri Krishna is decorated with spectacular decoration and jewellery. Entire Braj is lit like Diwali in other parts of India and holy singing of mantras and Bhajans are recited almost everywhere. Many temples and places of worship organize Srimad Bahgwata Katha from chapters where childhood period of Lord Krishna is described. Different Rasmandlis from all over enact the birth of Lord Krishna in soul touching manner and thousands of devotees visit Goverdhan for Prakrima of Giriraj mountain.
Shri Krishan Janamashtami:
Braj celebrates Shri Krishan Janamashtami
Dr. Gopal Chaturvedi
By Dr. Gopal Chaturvedi
Vrindavan based Renowned Writer and Senior Journalist
Out of 7 temples in Vrindavan Dham; in 3 temples namely Radhadamodar, Radharaman and Radhagokulnand; Janamashtami is celebrated during the daytime. In Radharaman temple deity of Shri Krishna is in the form of Saligram. In Radha Gokulanand temple there are fingerprints of Chatinya Mahaprabhu and in Radha Damodar Temple Shri Krishna is present as a part of Giriraj Mountain. Since it is believed that Lord is always present in these temples and as per the age-old tradition his birthday is celebrated during the day, some of the Goswamis from these temples are of the opinion that Shri Krishna is so tender that it would not be wise to wake him at night to celebrate his birthday.
On the morning of Janamashtami, Goswamis and other servants of Radha Damodar temple go to Yamuna River and bring water fresh water from there and quintals of Milk, Curd, Ghee, Honey, Sugar, five kinds of dry fruits and many herbs and medicines prescribed as ages old tradition are mixed together and at 9.30am with this liquid all the installed deities are bathed including the Giriraj Shila which was blessed by Shri Krishna for Siril Sanatan Goswami that four Prakrima of this Shila would equate to pilgrimage of seven miles of Goverdhan parikrama. During the Abhisek ceremony all the time Vedic Chants are recited and this tradition at this temple continues from the time of Siril Jeev Goswami when he lived and presided over this temple. At the time of Abhisek Fruits, Sweets, Dry fruits, etc. are thrown among devotees. The holy water from this Abhisek is distributed among all devotees its importance is equivalent to Amrit. It is so believed that with consumption of this holy water all the sins, defects, deformities and disease come to an end and the devotee is granted the fruit with his soul more-nearer to lord Krishna and his life more meaningful. In the afternoon grand spectacular Darshan of Shri Krishna and Giriraj Shila are available for devotees. On this occasion, devotees sing hymn in the praise of Lord Krishna, with full of happiness and joy and in the evening. An offering of 56 types of food is offered to the Lord to please him.
In Radharaman temple, the Abhisek of Lord is done at 12 noon instead of midnight. The entire temple complex is cleaned and freshly painted on this day and deities are adorned with new and best possible dresses and lord Krishna is made to sit on Golden throne on this occasion. Till Panjiri is offered to Lord as special offerings and special prayers are held for devotees. Next day after Janamashtami, Nandutsav is celebrated in Braj in all temples and houses. Lord Krishna is made to swing on specially made swings and devotees sing in his praise and congratulate each other. In every Ashram, Temple and household special poori and accompanying dishes are prepared on this day. A special ceremony “Dadhi Kandha’” is performed in this ritual Curd and turmeric are mixed together and are thrown as color on one another. Many devotees at different place throw sweets, fruits, etc. at other devotees which they catch and keep as blessing of Shri Krishna.
Main celebration of Nandutsav is performed at Gokulnath Temple in Gokul. As per the ancient scriptures, in the prison of King Kansa in Mathura when his sister Devki gave birth to her 8th son, her husband Shri Vasudev carried away Shri Krishna to his friend Nand Baba in Gokul for fear that King Kansa may not kill his son, next day when resident of Gokul came to know that Yasohda and Nand has been blessed with a son in their middle age they went to Nand Bhawan and their house to congratulate them. In the line of this
Shri Krishan Janamashtami:
Braj celebrates Shri Krishan Janamashtami
Dr. Gopal Chaturvedi
By Dr. Gopal Chaturvedi Vrindavan based Renowned Writer and Senior Journalist HR-1, 006, Shri Krishan Sardam Colony, Gate No. 2, Chatikara Road, Vrindavan - 281121, Distt. Mathura (U.P.) email: radhakant281121@gmail.com Phone: 9412178154
Shri Krishan Janamashtami:
Braj celebrates Shri Krishan Janamashtami
Dr. Gopal Chaturvedi
By Dr. Gopal Chaturvedi
Vrindavan based Renowned Writer and Senior Journalist
In the line of this tradition, Nandutsav is celebrated with great fervor at Nand Bhawan. In the morning, a procession is taken out from Gokulnath mandir, and people get glimpse of the Swing of Lord Shri Krishna. In this function of “Dadhi Kandha”, a mixture of curd and turmeric is thrown on devotees to bless them. The devotees who had visited Mathura on previous day to celebrate Janamashtami flock to see these celebrations of street of Gokul one day after.
In Dwarkadeesh temple of Mathura on Nandutsav day Lord Krishna is throned on silver swing. Devotee who sees young Lord Krishna throw toys, etc. at other devotee with joy for catching, considered as blessing for the devotees who receive them. During Nand Utsav in Nand Gaon in Nand Bhawan, Shri Krishna appears in Gold Swing for his devotees and flocks of people from Barsana, the hometown of Radharani come to congratulate their friends in Nandgaon on this day. Wrestling matches are organized on this day at Nandkund lake to commemorate the memory of Shri Balrama, the elder brother of Shri Krishna. In these grand matches, wrestler from all over India take part to show their skills.
In Radha Damodar temple of Vrindavan, Nandutsav is celebrated as “Anand Mahautsav”, The Blissful Day when young toddlers of Braj collect in the courtyard of the temple and enact the pitcher breaking scenes of Shri Krishna Childhood. Shri Krishna would play with all the milk and curd in the pitchers and break them open for eating for himself and his friends. Goswamis and other pious devotees throw food, sweets and fruits at devotees as heavenly offerings. The devotes who are able to get them consider themselves to very lucky and blessed. In the courtyard of the temple, milk and curd is spread in a special design. It is so said that Shri Krishna in his childhood used to spill milk and curd on floor in this manner only, it is to revive those centuries old scenes for the devotees who sing and dance in the praise of Lord till afternoon Ladoo. Gopal deity of Shri Krishna is throned on a swing here and mothers and ladies from all over move the swing with the rope symbolizing the Yasohda-Krishna relation enacted again, when they move the swings, they feel and become like Yasohda and feel the divine moments Yasohda Ma had with Lord Krishna. Very special offerings are offered in the Temple on this day.
Author is Vrindavan based Renowned Writer and Senior Journalist
Incredible India: Images of India through Paintwork
Chandra
Incredible India: Images of India through Paintwork
Chandra
Arulmigu Subramanya Swamy Temple is a Hindu Temple, located on the hill of Thirutthani, Tamil Nadu, India, dedicated to Lord Muruga. It is fifth among the 6 abodes of Lord Murugan (Aarupadai Veedugal). The other 5 are Palani Murugan Temple, Swamimalai Murugan Temple, Thiruchendur Murugan Temple, ThiruparankundramandPazhamudircholaiMuruganTemple.
Arulmigu Subramanya Swamy Temple is a Hindu Temple, located on the hill of Thirutthani, Tamil Nadu, India, dedicated to Lord Muruga. It is fifth among the 6 abodes of Lord Murugan (Aarupadai Veedugal). The other 5 are Palani Murugan Temple, Swamimalai Murugan Temple, Thiruchendur Murugan Temple, ThiruparankundramandPazhamudircholaiMuruganTemple.
Thiruttani, India:
Subramanya Swamy Temple
Midhun
Arulmigu Subramanya Swamy Temple is a Hindu Temple, located on the hill of Thirutthani, Tamil Nadu, India, dedicated to Lord Muruga. It is fifth among the 6 abodes of Lord Murugan (Aarupadai Veedugal). The other 5 are Palani Murugan Temple, Swamimalai Murugan Temple, Thiruchendur Murugan Temple, Thiruparankundram and Pazhamudircholai Murugan Temple.
Thiruttani Temple:
Arulmigu Subramanya Swamy Temple is a Hindu Temple, located on the hill of Thirutthani, Tamil Nadu, India, dedicated to Lord Muruga. The hill has 365 steps which indicating 365 days of the year. It is fifth among the 6 abodes of Lord Murugan (Aarupadai Veedugal) The other 5 are Palani Murugan Temple, Swamimalai Murugan Temple, Thiruchendur Murugan Temple, Thiruparankundram and Pazhamudircholai Murugan Temple. Tiruttani is located at 87 Kilometres (54 mi) from Chennai. It is the only temple located within the Greater Chennai Metropolitan Area limit. During Sangam era, Tiruttani was known as Kundruthoradal. After killing the demon Thaarakasura in Tiruchendoor, he came here to subside his anger, so Soorasamharam will not be conducted here.
History:
Tiruttani Temple, the origins of this temple, are buried in antiquity. This temple was mentioned in the Sangam period work Tirumurugaatruppadai composed by Nakkeerar. It was patronized by the Vijayanagar rulers and local chieftains and zamindars. The original animal mount of Murugan is believed to be an elephant, compared to peacock which is considered to be the most common mount. The white elephant is considered a more powerful, terror striking animal.
The temple is unique in that unlike other temples, Subramanyar holds Vajra Hastam instead of his iconic Vel in his right hand. Also, the Vaahana of Lord Muruga is an elephant facing east, in the place of peacock which is the ideal Vaahana of Subramanya. As per legend, Indra, the king of the Gods presented his elephant Airavatam on the marriage of his daughter Deivayanai with Lord Muruga. Indra then realized his wealth gradually declining due to Airavatam’s departure from him. Subramanyar offered to return the white elephant. But Lord Indra refused to accept the gift being returned. Instead, he suggested that the elephant face the direction as that of the Lord. Hence the idol of the elephant in this temple also faces the east. Also, Indra is believed to have presented a sandal stone on their marriage. The sandal paste made out of this stone which has strong medicinal value is applied to the idol of Subramanya. One could notice a hollow in the chest region of Lord Muruga believed to have been caused by the discus thrown by the demon Tarakasuran. As per legend, Skanda gifted the discus to Vishnu.
Golden Chariot procession is held at the temple every day except during the Festivals like Thai Poosam (4 Days), Panguni Utharam (4 Days), Navarathiri (10 Days), Soorasamharam (1 Day) and Deepa Kirthigai (1 Day). On the New Year Eve, numerous bhajana parties climb up the hill, singing the hymns of Tiruppugazh and lit camphor on each of the hill’s 365 steps dedicating one for each day of the year.
Significance Of Narali Purnima
NaraliPurnima:
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Significance Of Narali Purnima
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Shravana Purnima is popularly known as Nariyal Purnima in Maharashtra, especially at coastal Maharashtra and Konkani region. On Nariyal Purnima, people worship God Varun and especially offer Nariyal to the God of Sea. It is believed that the Puja offered to sea on the auspicious day of Shravana PurnimaappeasetheGodanditprotectsfishermenfromallsortsofuntowardincidents.
Shravana Purnima is popularly known as Nariyal Purnima in Maharashtra, especially at coastal Maharashtra and Konkani region. On Nariyal Purnima, people worship God Varun and especially offer Nariyal to the God of Sea. It is believed that the Puja offered to sea on the auspicious day of Shravana Purnima appease the God and it protects fishermen from all sorts of untoward incidents. Maharashtrian Brahmins, who perform ritualistic Shravani Upakarma on this day, observe Phalahar fasting on the day and eat only Nariyal i.e. the coconut during the fast. Hence, in Konkan and coastal Maharashtra the day of Shravana Purnima is popularly known as Nariyal Purnima. People also plant tree on the day of Nariyal Purnimatoshowtheirrespectandgratitudetowardsthenature.
Shravana Purnima is famous for Raksha Bandhan but there are several other significant aspects which are associated with the Shravan Purnima. There are various other festivals and rituals which are performed on the full moon day of Shravana. Shravana Purnima is regarded as a highly auspicious day in Hindu Culture. The various rituals which are performed on Shravana Purnima possess immense significance. The rituals of ‘Upnayan’ and ‘Yagyopaveet’ are observed on this day. Brahmins also observe ‘Shudhikaran’ ritual on Shravana Purnima as it is considered as one of the most sacred days for performing religious rituals. The devotees perform special worship of Lord Shiva on this holy day. There are various reasons which make this day so important among Hindus which include the Nariyal Purnima. Nariyal Purnima is celebrated on the full moon day of Shravan month. It is an important festival for the Koli Community. Koli community are people who do fishing for basic livelihood. Therefore, it is celebrated with great pomp by the Koli Community. On this day, the god of the ocean, Varuna Dev is worshiped. It is believed that on the day of Nariyal Purnima, Koli community worships Varun Dev and requests him to protect them from troubles of the sea. The women of Koli community place Kalash (coconut kept in metal pot) on their heads and take a journey towards the sea and worship Lord Varuna with the rituals. It is believed that if Varuna Dev is calm, there will be no storms in the sea and the rains will be no problem. After which he will be able to go fishing intheseaforhislivelihood.ThatiswhyNariyalPoornimahasgreatimportanceintheKolicommunity.
Narali Purnima:
Significance Of Narali Purnima
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Shravana Purnima is popularly known as Nariyal Purnima in Maharashtra, especially at coastal Maharashtra and Konkani region. On Nariyal Purnima, people worship God Varun and especially offer Nariyal to the God of Sea. It is believed that the Puja offered to sea on the auspicious day of Shravana Purnima appease the God and it protects fishermen from all sorts of untoward incidents.
Narali Purnima hints the end of the monsoon season in Maharashtra. Narali Purnima falls on the full moon day of the Hindu calendar month of Shravan. People on this day, take a shower early in the morning and offer coconuts to the sea. The word 'Naral' stands for coconut, and it is offered to the Sea on the full moon day. And this is why it is called Narali Purnima. This special festival is also known by other names such: Shravani Purnima, Raksha Bandhan and Rakhi Purnima. Narali Purnima is also called coconut festival celebrated with a lot of happiness and enthusiasm. It is quite popular among the fishermen as well as a fishing community all across in Maharashtra on the full day of Shravan. No need to mention that Shravan is one of the four most auspicious months of Hindi Calendar. And that is why a full moon day, or the Purnima is regarded even with more respect.
Significance Of Narali Purnima:
Narali Purnima is a festival associated with the weather. It is celebrated as the mark of the ending of the monsoon season. And that is why, fishermen especially do pooja on this day to the Sea-God, Varuna. People do dance and singing on this auspicious day. Moreover, people also cherish sweet coconut rice along with curry with family and friends. Narali Purnima is a prominent festival celebrated by Hindus on a large scale. Prominently, it is celebrated among the people of Daman and Diu on the west coast of India, In the coastal region of Maharashtra like Thane, Ratnagiri, Konkan, etc. People do not go fishing on this day. Moreover, people also do not consume fish on this day. Coconut is thrown into the sea to seek the blessings of the Sea God. Throwing coconut is regarded as a gesture to calm is fury in a great manner. The only coconut is offered but no other fruits. And the reason is that coconut is considered quite auspicious to offer to God in all sorts of Hindu festivals. Coconut is the only tree which holds useful leaves, coconut, and bark to the man. Coconut is also regarded as fruit associates to Lord Shiva because of having three eyes. Breaking coconut before doing anything auspicious is also regarded quite auspicious to take all negativities away. Fishermen repair all the things that they use while to go in Sea such boat, fishing net, ships, etc. They repair it by paying respect to their job and Sea God. Moreover, they also buy a new boat or fishing net if having enough budgets. Boats are also decorated on this day. Traditional food is made on this day called Naraali Bhaat, Coconut Rice, Naralachi Karanjis. The traditionally dressed men and women follow the rituals on this day. They carry coconuts with them and offer to the sea.
Achleshwar Mahadev Temple
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Rajasthan is known for its endeavoring ancient monuments and temples. A prominent temple in this and is the Achaleshwar Mahadev temple which is situated in Dholpur, Rajasthan. This temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva who is represented by a Shiva Linga whose origin is unknown. One of the mysterious fact about this temple is that it changes color according to the time of the day.
Rajasthan is known for its endeavoring ancient monuments and temples. This ancient princely state has over the years become the home to India’s most highly regarded monuments, forts and temples. As you tour around Rajasthan, you will notice that the region is a blend of culture, and the heritage has been well kept. The magnificent forts, the ancient temples and the sands of Rajasthan are few places which mesmerizes you that you cannot deny the fact that it is one of the best tourist destinations you’ve been to.
A prominent temple in this and is the Achaleshwar Mahadev temple, which is situated in Dholpur, Rajasthan. This temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva who is represented by a Shiva Linga whose origin is unknown. One of the mysterious facts about this temple is that it changes color according to the time of the day. The Linga is known to exhibit three different colors, the morning sun brings a hue of red color to the Linga, saffron adorns the deity in the noon and at night he is seen depicting black based on the stillness of the night. It is believed that the temple is over 2500 years old. There has been much research carried out to prove the change of colors but even today they remain shrouded in mystery. The temple is difficult to access due to its location, but the journey is sure worthwhile. Not only the Linga is magnificent, but the structure of the temple is also a thing to marvel at. The Linga is believed to have self-manifested. A poplar lore goes that the Nandi that stands guard at the entrance once spewed bumble bees at invaders who wanted to pillage the temple. The beauty of the temple is represented by the exquisite marble work which was a Rajasthani specialty. The temple houses the pious path of Parikrama, which is the Hindu tradition of circumambulation. After an attack by Muslim invaders the temple in charges formed a plan to avert such attacks in the future, by coating the temple with lime. As a result, the intricate works of the sculptures were covered, and many sculptures were also hidden. Later, after many years when renovation work in the temple was carried out, it was found that the insides of the temple were made out of marble. There was also a finding of a sculpture inside the temple sanctum depicting Goddess Chamunda whose forehead was smeared with vermilion indicating that she was worshipped many years ago. There is a semicircular pit in the temple inside which is a small image which resembles the right toe of the Lord. When water is poured inside the pit, it usually disappears and hence, the pit, is believed to be a gateway to the Netherworld. The ancientness of this temple is depicted by the huge tree that blossoms Champa flowers. The great glory of this temple will make you stop and stare at it open-mouthed in awe. This temple is now one of the ancient temples in the country and leaves a spell binding effect on the beholder.
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ANDAL JAYANTI ANDAL JAYANTI
Wednesday, August 7th, 2024. Andal Jayanti, is the celebration of Bhudevi's birthday and is dedicated to Andal or Bhudevi (Godadevi), who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. This day is also known as Aadi Pooram.
