Read Latest Blogs on Hinduism

Shri Nath’s Ras Lila: A Divine Celebration of Love Through Folk Art

Ras Lila is a religious feast and dance drama that portrays the romantic voyage of the incarnation of God Krisha and the cowherd women of Vrindavan. Having emerged from ancient Indian epics as well as the Vaishnavite tradition, this melodious theme spurred an enormous con Genel body of arts throughout centuries. Dance is not the only art that depicts Ras Lila – there are paintings, sculptures, and even performances that try to show how the divine love between Radha and Krishna looks like, and people can find the answer here.

Published in Nov 2024

Story of Shirdi Sai Baba – Saint Who Symbolizes Compassion and Selflessness

Shirdi Sai Baba was a revered saint and spiritual master in India with many Hindu and Muslim practitioners, even presently following his teachings. Although the year of his birth is not known accurately, some followers consider it either 1835 or 1838. He lived his entire life as a renunciant and formed beautiful relationships with his followers. Much of his life incidents and pastimes have been shared by his close followers. His name Sai Baba is a combination of Persian and Hindi words which denote him as a “Saintly person who is like a fatherly figure for everyone”. In this article, we shall closely observe Sai Baba’s glorious life journey and the message he preached.

Published in Nov 2024

Lord Jhulelal : An Analytical Study of Sindhi Community and Rituals

If we go back and trace the history of the Sindh culture, we will come across the era of the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the oldest civilizations. Since the Sindh region is located along the Indus River (also known as the Sindhu River) and the Arabian Sea, the Sindhi people became skilled traders. Before partition, the Sindh province embraced major parts of the Punjab (Pakistan), Kutch, Kathiawar, and western parts of India. During the Indus Valley Civilization, a similar civilization called “Harappan” grew along the Indus and Sarasvati rivers. However, around the year 1700 BC, a decline took place in both civilizations. The reason is believed to be the disappearance of the Sarasvati River and many disturbances occurring in the Indus River (floods). People faced many losses in their trading businesses. Subsequently, the civilizations met a dead end.

Published in Oct 2024

Yoga Essentials : Attire, Decor and Books on Yoga

The ancient practice of Yoga is more relevant than ever in today’s fast-paced world, where one needs a routine that blends physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. Practicing Yoga at home, in a training center, with friends and family, or as a personal routine is a great way to start your day, and feel relaxed and in touch with your higher self. Building a Yoga routine is the first step towards having the best time as you get into the practice of Yogasana, pranayama, and meditation. We are here with a list of Yoga-essentials for you, starting with the fashionable Yoga pants, to help you start a new, self-care habit.

Published in Oct 2024

Surya Bhagwan: The Hindu Sun God

Revered as Brahma in the morning, Shiva during the noon time, and Vishnu as evening comes, Surya is associated with the Prabha (aura) of the divine beings, a deity whose worship continues from the beginning of civilization to the modern period, because his role in nourishing and empowering life in the Universe is unparalleled. In this article, we will bask in the splendor of Surya, going through various interesting facts about the Hindu Sun god, who is a primary member of the Panchayatana (five major sects dedicated to Ganesha, Shiva, Vishnu, Devi, and Surya) worshiped in Hinduism and is a divine being in Buddhism and Jainism.

Published in Oct 2024

Celebrating Onam – Learning About the History, Traditions, And Customs

The festival of Onam is celebrated as a Hindu festival in association with the mythological story of lord Vishnu and Asura king Mahabali. According to the regional texts the king of ancient India, Mahabali defeated the gods to rule three worlds. Kerala flourished under the rule of Mahabali which made the gods quite insecure because of the popularity of Mahabali. Gods reached out to Lord Vishnu for help, and Vishnu turned into a short Brahman asking the ruler for three steps. Mahabali accepted the request even when his guru warned him about the god's plan, and soon the Vaman avatar of Vishnu turned almost as big as the three worlds. He covered the earth in one step, heaven in another and as there was no space left for his third step Mahabali offered his head to Vishnu portraying his true devotion. Vishnu granted Mahabali a boon in that he could visit his land once a year. That is why Onam is celebrated yearly to celebrate the homecoming of their generous and hearty king Mahabali.

Published in Sep 2024

Exploring the Ghanta - The Sacred Ritual Bell of Hinduism

Ghanta is a Sanskrit term for what we know as a ritual bell used in the religious practices of Hinduism. These ritual bells are made out of five to seven auspicious metals related to the planets namely lead (Saturn), tin (Jupiter), Iron (Mars), Copper (Venus), Mercury (Mercury), Silver (the Moon), and Gold (the Sun). Ghanta is carved with intricate designs and patterns of Hindu idols, a clapper is attached to the Ghanta that creates a high-pitched sound when they are rung. Ghanta plays a major role in Hindu rituals and practices for several years, the ringing of the Ghanta is said to invite positive aura and energies to overcome negative influences. Its sound is thought to purify the environment making it cleanse for the sacred rituals. Some Hindu texts justify that the ritual bell is used to honor the Deities to show respect and gesture to their divine presence.

Published in Sep 2024

Significance of Vat-Savitri Vrat - A Celebration of Matrimonial Bliss

The festival includes fasting, worshipping the Vat (Banayan) tree, and praying to goddess Parvati (an epitome of wifely and womanly virtues in Hinduism) and Savitri for a successful and auspicious married life a long and healthy life, and the safety of the husband. In the rituals of Vat Savitri Vrat, tying a thread around the Banyan tree and performing its Parikrama are important steps of worship. The Vat Vriksha in Hindu dharma is a powerful and divine element from ancient times. It is worshipped as the home of the Trideva- Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, thus worshipping it will bring fruits of worshipping all three great gods at once.

Published in May 2024

Worshipping Lord Kartikeya for Wisdom: Pragya Vardhana Stotram

The form of Karttikeya that emerges in the Pragya Vardhana Stotra or Pragya Vardhana Stotram, is that of a great master, similar to the traditions in Southern India, where Subramanyam is worshipped as the knower of truths of three realms, who became the Guru or teacher of Shiva himself. It is a powerful hymn for the seekers of wisdom, students, and people who want guidance in their journey to their inner consciousness. The Pragya-Vardhana Stotra is a powerful hymn narrated by Lord Shiva, the Adideva (primordial god), as a key to the Sadhaka (practitioner) of Yoga and seekers of pure wisdom to unlock their inner reservoirs of Pragya or brilliance.

Published in Feb 2024

Basant Panchami : The Significance and History Behind It

The scent of freshly bloomed flowers wafting through the air, people dressed in yellow-colored attire, the sunlight providing warmth in the receding winter. It all brings just one festival to mind and that is Basant Panchami or Vasant Panchami. While Vasant means spring, Panchami means the 5th day. This festival falls on the 5th day of the Maagha month as per the Hindu calendar and marks the arrival of the Spring season which is called the Basant ritu in Hindi, hence the name Vasant Panchami. It is also believed that this is the day when Goddess Saraswati emerged in the form we know today, Bringing respite from the harsh cold weather of the winter months marks the beginning of warmer days. This day is celebrated in various ways and by various names in different parts of India. In South India, it is called Sri Panchami and in West Bengal, it is celebrated as Saraswati Puja.

Published in Feb 2024

All Hindu Festivals of 2024 - Hindu Calendar

India is the land of many festivals and each of them holds a special place in the heart of its citizens. Out of the many cultures that coexist here, Hinduism is one and the most major. Let’s take a look at all the important festivals of the Hindu religion throughout the year.

Published in Dec 2023

Tulasi Devi’s Significance in Hindu Religion and Households

Hindu households across the country have certain common features, one of them being the Tulsi plant. Revered as a deity, the Tulsi plant has held the status of a symbol of devotion and purity for ages. She is believed to be the physical manifestation of Goddess Lakshmi Devi, the consort of Lord Vishnu who is worshiped as the preserver of the universe in Hinduism. That is why Tulasi Devi is considered to be very dear to Lord Vishnu. She is known by names like Vrinda, Vaishnavi, Hari Priya, Vrindavan among many others. Every part of the plant is considered auspicious. Even the soil in which it grows is considered to be pious. It is believed that all the deities reside at the top of the Tulsi plant while the middle houses the vedas and the roots house the important pilgrimage sites.

Published in Dec 2023

Beyond the Sparkle: What Hidden Stories Do Our Birthstones Whisper?

Gems have also been used as symbols, inspirations, and storytellers in art and popular culture. They have often appeared in royal crowns, classic paintings, and modern-day media, with each stone symbolizing specific traits and values. For example, pearls are associated with purity, and topaz is linked with resilience. It's incredible how these stones have become an essential part of our collective culture and continue to fascinate us.

Published in Dec 2023

Yoginis : The Lesser Known Divine

Across northern, central and eastern parts of India are found the temples of intrigue, awe and abandon. What unifies them into our visual narratives are their peculiar architectural designs - mostly a simple circular pattern with no roof under the high canopy of open skies, as the elements of nature from stark sunlight to heavy rains pour in - the absence of a Garbha Griha is as puzzling. These are the temples of Yoginis!

Published in Dec 2023

Understanding Vaishnavism and its History, Principles, and Practices

Hinduism comprises many sects, and one of them is Vaishnavism, along with others such as Shaivism, Shaktism, and Smartism. Vaishnavism states that Lord Vishnu is the Supreme Power. Vaishnavas are the followers of Vaishnavism. They devote themselves to Lord Vishnu and his avatars like Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, Lord Narayana, and Lord Venkateswara. Vaishnavism principles state that Lord Vishnu is the only true manifestation of the divine i.e., God. Sacred texts of Hinduism - Vedas, the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, the Vishnu Purana, and the Bhagavata Purana are revered, and their teachings are followed in Vaishnavism. Some important Vaishnava pilgrimage sites include Vrindavan, Badrinath, Dwaraka, Nathdwara, Udupi, Mathura, Ayodhya, Tirupati, Mayapur, Pandharpur, Puri, Srirangam, Kancheepuram among many others,

Published in Dec 2023

Understanding the Powers and Historical Significance of the Swastika

The Hindu Swastika is a significant symbol, with its roots running deep in the Hindu religion and other cultures worldwide. In Buddhism, it is the symbol of the footsteps of Lord Buddha, and for the Jains, the holy sign of Swastika symbolizes Suparshavanatha, i.e., the seventh Tirthankar out of twenty-four. The Swastika is associated with the Norse mythology Gods Odin and Thor as well. However, the Hindu religion reveres the Swastika the most and considers it the symbol of peace, good luck, prosperity, and happiness. This auspicious sign is associated with Lord Ganesha. A red Swastika symbol is considered immensely divine and necessary for a life full of happiness and peace.

Published in Dec 2023

Trimurti - Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh and the Numerous Beliefs of Hinduism

33 crore Hindu Gods and Goddesses are worshiped in the various temples of the Hindu religion, but it is only the Holy Trinity that is revered as the supreme power. Lord Brahma is the creator of the universe, Lord Vishnu is the preserver, and Lord Shiva or Mahesh is the destroyer. The Trimurti - Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh (Lord Shiva), is the epitome of divinity and the most powerful Gods in Hinduism. Lord Brahma has four heads and four arms. In one hand, he holds the Vedas, while in the other three, he holds a bow, a scepter, and a goblet. He sits on a lotus flower and is the creator of the four varnas in the Hindu religion.

Published in Nov 2023

How Dussehra is Celebrated in Different States of India

It was Treta Yuga when Supreme Lord Ram descended on the Earth to protect His devotees, kill the miscreants, and re-establish the Dharmic principles. Ravana was the king of Lanka but the kingdom did not seem to flourish. He was full of pride, envy, ego, anger, and greed. He looked down upon everyone and considered himself their master. Later, captivated by the beauty of Mother Sita, the wife of Lord Ram, he kidnapped Her and took Her to Lanka. Shri Ram then sent Hanuman Ji and Sugriva in all directions to search for Mother Sita. Hanuman Ji took the mission of crossing the great Indian Ocean and finding Sita Mata. He burnt various places in Lanka and delivered Lord Ram’s message to Mother Sita. But Ravana was so engrossed in his pitiful actions that he did not care to take Hanuman’s warning seriously. In the end, Lord Ram came to Lanka and attacked Ravana with His powerful bow. As He released His Brahmastra, it sped like air and stroked the chest of the wicked Ravana taking his life air along with it.

Published in Nov 2023

Sri Vishnu Sahasranamam: A Thousand Names of the Preserver and Their Benefits

The stotra of a divinity is essentially a collection of their many names. The most popular among these are 108 names or ashttotarshatanam and 1000 names or Sahastranamas, chanted with reverence. Within the many sahastranamas, Sri Vishnu Sahasranamam reigns supreme in the Puja-vidhi of Hindus, who repeat the thousand names of the mighty preserver god to attain goals ranging from success in business to spiritual upliftment.

Published in Nov 2023

What Does Bhaiya Dooj Symbolize for Brother-Sister Bonds?

Bhaiya Dooj also known as Bhai Dooj is an ancient Hindu festival that celebrates the eternal love that brothers and sisters share. It is a part of the Diwali festivities and is celebrated two days after the festival of lights.

Published in Nov 2023

Top 9 Traditional Navratri Outfits Ideas for a Festive Look

As we embark on this enchanting journey, our aim is clear: to inspire, enlighten, and elevate your Navaratri fashion game. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur of ethnic attire or just beginning your voyage into the intricate world of traditional fashion, this blog is your answer to what to wear this Navratri.

Published in Oct 2023

Hindu Vrats and katha – The Key to Embrace Devotion, Nurture the Soul

Hinduism is one of the oldest religions practiced across the globe and is known for its different philosophies and practices. However, despite the diversity of philosophies and customs, some practices are followed by all Hindus unanimously. Observing vrat and upvas on specific days and occasions is one such practice that is common across all sects of Hinduism. To observe a vrat, the followers of Hinduism keep a fast and avoid certain foods for a specific period. Reading religious and spiritual books in vrat is also to enhance their spirituality and stay focused. In most cases, the vrat commences with the sunrise and ends when the sun sets. However, sometimes the upvas may last for a couple of days or even more.

Published in Aug 2023

The History And Traditions Of Holi – Exploring The Colors Festival

Holi is one of the most awaited and popular festivals celebrated by Hindus across the globe. It is commonly referred to as the festival of colors since celebrating the festival involves considerable use of different types of colors. Like most other Hindu festivals, the Holi festival also celebrates the victory of good over evil and is considered to be a day of new beginnings. Read on to more about the history and significance of this festival and the various traditions and rituals associated with it.

Published in Mar 2023

5 Hindu Religious Book Recommendations for Bloggers

The sources of Hinduism- books, art, oral traditions, and practices are the repositories of the pearls of primordial knowledge, through which anyone can experience the beauty of the Hindu religion. The sheer number of books on the Hindu religion is mind-blowing, owing to the fact of India’s geographical, cultural and linguistic vastness, and listing the “best” or “a few” is a task next to impossible. According to Hindu tradition itself, the sacred books are assembled into certain groups of texts, representing the prevalent ideas and practices of a particular period in Indian cultural history. In this article, we will explore five of these textual traditions, and suggest 5 book recommendations for Hindu religious book bloggers.

Published in Jan 2023

Worshipping the Sun : Makara Sankranti Tradition Across India

Even though there is no single, common name or way of celebrating Makara Sankranti in India, the festival gives you one of those rare moments, in which the fact of India’s “unity in diversity” can be appreciated in all its glory. As one learns about the regional variations of Sankranti in the country, a unified picture begins to appear. A picture that is complemented by delicious food, luxurious Indian ethnic fashion, and a collective awareness of the role of mother nature in human life. It is in these festivals celebrated throughout the country, that the splendor of the ancient spirit of Hindu culture can be witnessed. On our journey, you will get to meet the local dishes and culture, while getting a few tips in festive ethnic style from the women of India.

Published in Jan 2023

Which God Idols Should not be Kept at Home?

Hindu religion allows the devotee the freedom to worship any deity they feel a personal connection (Bhakti) toward; however, picking the right idol for your home is a complex task. To understand the dos of picking a suitable idol of a Hindu god for your home, you should know a thing or two about which god idols should not be kept at home or what precautions should be taken when you are choosing an idol online for your Puja temple.

Published in Nov 2022

Which God Idols can be Kept at Home?

The prevalent system of worship in Hinduism resonates with the Smarta tradition (rooted in Smritis or the Vedas) which gives equal regard to all gods and goddesses and lays no strict ritual rules for the followers. Five (Pancha) deities, namely Shiva, Shakti, Vishnu, Ganesha, and Surya are considered primary figures, and their combined worship is called Panchayatan Puja. The ritual space in Puja becomes the Panchayatan of the deity which is placed in the center, surrounded by the other four.

Published in Nov 2022

3 Common Myths about Hinduism

There are billions of Hindu followers across the globe yet it is the most misunderstood not only among the Hindu community but also in the west. The deep and highly enlightening philosophies of Hinduism blow most people’s minds away whereas, many people are disgusted by the rituals and beliefs that are followed by the practitioners. The rituals are often disapproved of and are considered bogus activities, especially among the Youth. Many myths have been associated with the concepts of Hinduism that need to be rechecked:

Published in Oct 2022

A Lesson on Morality in the Hindu Mythology

India is known worldwide as a land of multiple cultures, customs, and traditions coexisting harmoniously with each other. Indian culture is rich and novel in its particular ways. In India habits and decorums, the style of correspondence, values, and convictions are indispensable parts of the way of life. Even though India has acknowledged the advanced method of living and individuals have further developed their way of life yet the customs and values are as yet unchanged. These practices, customs, and values together make India an exceptionally interesting country.

Published in Apr 2022

The Goddess Saraswati, Patron of Knowledge and Arts

The name Saraswati comes from the combination of the Sanskrit words saras, which can mean “pooling water” and can also be interpreted as meaning “speech”, and the word vati, which means “she who possesses”. Her name, therefore, has two literal translations. It can mean “she who has pooling water” or “she who possess speech”. Fittingly, the goddess Saraswati was originally associated with an ancient river that was also called Saraswati. In the Vedas, the river Saraswati was not only mentioned far more often than any other significant body of water but it was also the most revered. With regard to Saraswati as “she who possesses speech”, it is said that Saraswati is the inventor of the Sanskrit language.

Published in Dec 2021

How Samsara Works : The Cycle of Death and Rebirth

Samsara is one of the most important beliefs in India. And because of the influence and spread of Indian spiritual beliefs around the world — it has become one of the most important beliefs globally. Many have heard this word, but how many of us have grasped its full meaning? And how can we use this idea to live more meaningful, fulfilling lives? To answer this, we must answer the simple question: what is Samsara? To understand this important concept, we will look at its definition. But we will also look at how it plays into two of the most beautiful religions on earth: Hinduism and Buddhism. Then, we will try to take what we’ve learned and bring it home with us, so that the idea can take flight in our own lives.

Published in Nov 2021