Sloka By Lord Brahma On Lord Vishnu

The following is a sloka that was sung by Lord Brahma in praise of Lord Vishnu, according to a version of the Ramayana :-

Indraneelabhum paramindira manohara mandiravakshasthalum

vandhyamanandhodhayum

valsslanjachanavalasam padapankajabhakthavalsam

samasthalokolsavam salsevithum

merusannibhakiridodhyal kundalamukthaharakeyuramgada

kadakakadisuuthra

valayaamguliiyakaadhyakhila vibhushanakalithakallebharum

kamalamanohara

The above sloka that praises Lord Vishnu and requests for his infinite compassion to be shown on us. This sloka is apt for any Lord Vishnu/Krishna bhaktha to start their daily prayer and can be used as a 'dhyana sloka'. 

Panchagavya - Preparation & Uses Of The Holy Cow's Gifts

Panchagavya is an important component of many rituals and poojas. It is the mixture of 5 (pancha-) elements obtained from cows. The cow is considered to be very holy according to Hinduism. It is said that more than 33 crore gods exist in the body of a cow and hence prostrating before a cow is equivalent to praying to all these gods.

Panchagavya is used for abhisekha in many major temples during certain rituals. Panchagavya is also used to treat some severe diseases after empowering the panchagavya with suitable mantras. The constituents of panchagavya have the ability to trap tremendous positive mantra energy and hence becomes much more effective than water empowered with mantras. Panchagavya is even being used in organic farming methods to enrich the soil and protect plants. (the agricultural mixture includes jaggery,banana,etc also)

The constituents of Panchagavya are - dung, urine and milk from the cow, along with ghee and curd. Individually these components have significant therapeutic effects and are utilized in ayurveda system of medicine.

Cow dung is said to have anti-septic and anti-fungal properties and is hence used to treat skin diseases. Cow's urine is used to treat stomach disorders in kids. The benefits of ghee, curd and milk are quite well-known and hence i presume it doesn't need further explanation. Though these products are all individually effective and useful, together they become exponentially better.

The ratio for the preparation of panchagavya is fixed on the quantity of cow dung that is taken.The ratio of the other components are as follows :-

                  cow's urine = cow dung  x 2  

ghee (from cow's milk) = cow dung x 4

curd (from cow's milk) = cow dung x 5

                     cow's milk = cow dung x 16

Kubera Sloka - For Wealth and Prosperity

Everyone is frantically in search of a way to make more money. The scriptures proclaim that Lord Kubera is the God of wealth. Hence Lord Kubera needs to be pleased to fulfill your requirements for more wealth and prosperity. The sloka given below may be chanted 512 times daily for 21 continuous days as a form of saadhana to appease Lord Kubera and hence get his blessings.

Om manuja vahya vimana varasthitham

garuda rathnnibhum nidhinayakum

shivasaghum makudadi vibhushithum

varagadhe dhadhathum bhaja thundilum

Benefits Of Different Abhisheka

The ritual of 'abhisheka' (showering) of the deities idol is one that is seen in almost every temple. The abhisheka ritual is of great significance and can help a devotee who is facing problems. Various items are used for the abhisheka of the idols depending on the purpose and regional beliefs. The following is a generalized list of some of the specific benefits of doing abhisheka with the mentioned items.

Water - To purify the soul and to remove all evil thoughts from the mind
Oil - To have respect/devotion to god and parents
Turmeric powder- To usher in prosperity to the household
Milk - To reduce anger/frustrations and get peace of mind
Curd - To enhance health
Ghee/Butter - To have a wholesome life
Rosewater - To get fame
Bhasma/Vibhuti - To gain knowledge/wisdom
Panchamritha - To atone for all sins
Tender coconut water - To beget good children

You may gain the specified benefit of the abhisheka by praying in front of the idol while it is done in the temples also.

Please do add any extra info regarding 'abhisheha' in the comments. Om

The 14 Lokas/Worlds Of Hinduism

In many Hindu scriptures there are 14 worlds/levels that are generally talked about. They are divided into two groups of seven each. The first group is said to be above earth,i.e, related to human elements directly. While the second group is said to be part of the nether world,i.e, below the earth. I would like to clarify that the word 'level' does not mean status here and is instead used as a  means to physically represent these various worlds (like the levels/floors of a building). The names of the worlds are given below along with the name of the deity/element who accommodates that level.


Bhuvarloka - Sky/Akaash
Swarloka - Lord Indra
Maharloka - Lord Vishnu
Janarloka - Humans
Thapoloka - Saints/Sages
Satyaloka - Lord Brahma


Athathala - Vala the son of Lord Yama
Vithala - Lord Paramashiva
Suthala - King Mahabali
Rasathala - Asuras /Demons
Thalathala - Mayamayi
Mahathala - Sarpa
Pathala - Naga


Please do share any extra information regarding this topic, in the comments.

Navagraha Sloka to Please All Nine Planets

Navagrahas (the nine planets) are said to be highly influential in our life. They are said to decide our success, failures, happiness, disease,etc. They have been given a status on par with gods. Anyone who checks their horoscope is certain to have heard about the navagrahas and would have been asked to perform remedies. The names of the navagrahas are : Surya, Chandra, Sukra, Mangala, Budha, Guru, Shani, Rahu and Ketu. Each planet is said to control specific aspects of a person’s life (which we shall see in detail through posts in the future).

The following is a simple sloka to appease all the navagraha deities.  

Aarogyaam pradhadhaathuno dinakara

Chandroyasho nirmalam

Bhutheem bhumi suthah sudhaamshuthanayah

Pranjaam gururgowravam

Kavyakomala vagwilaasamathulum

Rahurbahubalum

Virodhashamanam

Keturkulasyonnatheem

Chant the above sloka thrice daily and humbly request the deities to bless you. These slokas can be chanted irrespective of the particular horoscope problems you may be having.

Gatekeepers and Lord Vishnu's Avatars

The following is a legend which gives the reason for the birth of some famous asuras (demons) and why they got the good fortune of being killed by Lord Vishnu’s various avatars/incarnations.

Once Lord Mahavishnu told his two gatekeepers (dwarapalakas) that he is going to take rest. After a while the holy seven sages (saptarishis) approached Lord Vishnu’s abode to meet him. But, the gatekeepers refused to let the sages meet Lord Vishnu. The sages asked thrice to be allowed to go meet Lord Vishnu but the gatekeepers refused. The sages, who are revered by all the gods, got angered and cursed the gatekeepers saying “may you be born thrice as asuras”. By this time Lord Vishnu came outside and upon seeing the holy sages, invited them inside. The gatekeepers were terrified and fell at Lord Vishnu’s feet to seek shelter from the curse of the holy sages. Lord Vishnu pacified them and said “do not worry, in every birth that you take as an asura, i myself will come and kill you, hence letting you have mokshs(liberation) from the sins you commit as asuras in each birth”. The gatekeepers thanked Lord Vishnu for his compassion and apologised to the holy sages.

Thus the two gatekeepers were born as Hiranyaksha and Hiranyakashipu, who were killed by Lord Vishnu in the form of Lord Varaha and Lord Narasimha. Then they were born as Raavana and Kumbhakarna, who were killed by Lord Vishnu as Lord Rama. Then they were finally born as Kamsa and Banasura (a close confidante of Kamsa) who were killed by Lord Vishnu as Lord Krishna.

Please do share any information you know related to this legend, in the comments. Om

Lord Murugan/Subrahmanya Dhyana Sloka

The sloka below is in praise of Lord Muruga/Subrahmanya. It is a simple invocation of Lord Muruga to shower the devotee with his compassionate blessings. It can be used as a dhyana sloka before starting to chant any Lord Murugan Mantras.You may chant the sloka 6 times daily in the morning.

Om shakthi vajra varadhabhayanwitham

kekivaryamadhiroohya sumsthithum

devasumgha parivarashobhithum

bhaavaye hridhi guham shadaananum

Lord Shiva's Faces

According to scriptures in some regions of southern India, Lord Shiva is said to have six faces. There are two beliefs pertaining to the sixth face. One states that the sixth face is beyond comprehension of the human mind and is considered more like a direct representation of Brahman. The other belief is that Devi Parvathi is the sixth face and that all the six faces together is represented as Lord Muruga/Shanmugha.

During pooja rituals, the boiled rice offered to Lord Shiva when done in specific mixtures for each of the five faces of Lord Shiva, is said to be very effective in appeasing Lord Shiva. Accordingly, the corresponding food for each face is given below :-


Eeshana Face         - boiled rice
Tattpurusha Face   - boiled rice with curd
Aghora Face          - boiled rice with sesame seeds
Vamadeva Face     - boiled rice with jaggery
Sadhyojatha Face  -  boiled rice with milk

You can also accommodate this technique in your Lord Shiva Pooja by taking very little quantities for offering. It is the quality of devotion which is important and not the quantity of offering.Om

Mahalakshmi Mantras - For Youth, Beauty, Health, Good children, Wealth, Prosperity and Happiness

Chanting these names(mantra) of Lakshmi every day in the morning before going to work is very beneficial.

Om Aim Shreem Hreem Shreem Kamlai

kamalayaya preseetha preseetha Shrim Hreem Shee Om Mahalakshmiayai Namahae.

Then chant the following 9 names of Mahalakshmi

OM MAHALAKSHMI NAMAHAE
OM GAJA LAKSHMI NAMAHAE
OM JAYA LAKSHMI NAMAHAE
OM THANA LAKSHMI NAMAHAE
OM SANTANA LAKSHMI NAMAHAE
OM SEETHA LAKSHMI NAMAHAE
OM THAIREYA LAKSHMI NAMAHAE
OM THANNYA LAKSHMI NAMAHAE
OM VIDYA LAKSHMI NAMAHAE
OM MAHA VISHU MAHALAKSHMI NAMAHAE

Chant the above mantras 3 or 9 times daily, you will see the (wonderful) difference in life.
You will be blessed with youth, beauty, health, good children, wealth, prosperity and happiness.
Then end the prayers with:

sarva managala mangalyea siva,
sarvatha satheka, sareneeya thriyeyambagae gauri narayannee namashotha.
Om Saubhagiya Varalakshmiya Ambigahae Namahae. 

Om Maha Deviyai Sagala Saubagiyam dhehimei satha.

May Goddess Mahalakshmi bless all of us.

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The above post has been submitted by one of our valuable readers, Dr.V.B.Nallini

Thank you very much .Dr.V.B.Nallini

[You can also submit any Hinduism related content to be published on the blog by clicking here]

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Power Of Lord Rama's Name

This is a simple folktale which shows the power of chanting Lord Rama's name. There was an ashram (hermitage) of a saint in the outskirts of a kingdom. The saint had only one disciple and used to practice vedic rituals daily. One day a farmer in the kingdom happened to kill one of his cows by mistake. Since ‘gow hathya’ (murder of cows) is considered a great sin according to Hindu tradition, the farmer was grief stricken. He decided to approach the hermitage at the outskirts and ask the saint for a way to atone for his sins. The farmer took a basket of fruits with him while going to meet the saint.

When the farmer reached the hermitage, the saint was in meditation. He saw the disciple outside preparing flowers for a pooja. The farmer presented the basket of fruits and explained his problem to the disciple. The disciple advised the farmer to go back home and chant ‘Hare Rama’ 4 times with devotion. He said that it will be enough to atone for the grave sin of killing a cow. The farmer thanked the disciple and went home.

When the saint returned from his meditation, he asked his disciple about the basket of fruits. The disciple explained the farmer’s problem and added that he has advised the farmer to chant Lord Rama’s name 4 times. On hearing this, the saint got enraged and cursed the disciple saying “may you be born as an animal for four more lives”. The disciple was shocked and asked the saint why he was being cursed.The saint explained that the disciple was foolish enough to not realize that a single chanting of Lord Rama’s name is more than enough to atone for any sin. The advice to chant it 4 times showed the disciple’s disbelief in the power of Lord Rama’s name and hence he had to be cursed.

This folktale shows the profound power which a single utterance of the Lord’s name can have. It is mentioned in scriptures that a single utterance of Lord Rama’s name is equivalent to 1000 names of Lord Vishnu. If there is true devotion, then any name you call God with is enough to wash your sins and rejuvenate your soul.

Kindly share this simple folktale with family and friends so that everyone may benefit from it. Please do share your views in the comments. Om

Powerful Lord Ganesha Stotra - To Remove All Obstacles

As we have been seeing throughout our posts, no Hindu ritual is started without invoking the blessings of Lord Ganesha. Lord Ganesha is known as the remover of obstacles and the giver of boons . Lord Ganesha is the god of success, knowledge and wealth. Hence it is indicated in many Hindu scriptures that any effort in life can become complete only with the blessings of Lord Ganesha.

The following sloka is said to be very powerful and useful to easily appease Lord Ganesha. Chant it before starting each day so that all obstacles are removed and your day becomes fruitful.

OM Ganeshaya Namaha !!!

Eka dantam chatur hatam,

bibranam pashamankusham,

Abhayam hastair dadanam !

Mushika dwajam lambodaram,

shurpakarnam, rakhtavasanam,

raktha gandhanu liptangam,

rakhta pushpai su poojitam,

bhaktanu kampinam,

devam jagat karanam achyutam,

 avir bhootam strusti do prakrutai poorushota param,

evam dyayethi yo neetyam sayogi yoginam varaha !

Namo vrata pata yee namaha ,

namo ganpathayee namaha,

namo pramada pataye ,

namo astu lambodaraya namaha,

namo ekadantha vigna vinasinaya namaha,

namo shiva suthaya namaha,

namo varada murthaya namo namaha !!!

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The above sloka has been submitted by one of our valuable readers, Mr.Sairam Kakani. 

Thank you very much Mr.Sairam Kakani.

[You can also submit any Hinduism related content to be published on the blog by clicking here]

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Diwali/Deepavali - Relevance Today

The festival of Diwali / Deepavali is also celebrated by Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists, hence making it a nationwide celebration. The Jains commemorate Diwali / Deepavali as the day that Saint Mahavir attained ‘moksha’. It is also believed that emperor Ashoka converted to Buddhism on the day of Diwali / Deepavali, and is hence celebrated by Buddhists as ‘Ashoka Vijayadashami’. The importance of Diwali / Deepavali among the Sikhs lies in the release of Guru Hargobind and other princes from prison.

Regardless of the community or the origin, Diwali / Deepavali is a celebration of good. It is a celebration of the glory of God. A remembrance of God being ever ready to help all devotees when called with devotion, regardless of the name or form he/she is called in. 

I would like to add that celebrations and festivals are occasions to bring the family and friends closer, and not an excuse to find differences or faults which lead to unwanted hatred or jealousy.They are opportunities to instill peace,love and harmony in the family and in society as a whole. Please do not let any anti-social elements destroy the unity and peace of India in the name of any differences. We are all children of the same absolute power, so love your fellow beings. Use this Diwali / Deepavali as a god given chance to spread the message of Hinduism (peace,love & equality) throughout the world.

I wish you all a Happy Diwali / Deepavali and sincerely hope that the almighty blesses everyone with success,peace, health and happiness. Om

Please do share any other information you know that is related to Diwali / Deepavali , in the comments

Why Lord Hanuman Is Devoted To Lord Rama

Whenever the word devotion and devotee are mentioned, the name ‘Hanuman’ is one that comes to the mind of most Hindus. Lord Hanuman’s devotion for Lord Rama is legendary and unparalleled. It is said that the mere mention of Lord Rama’s name is enough to bring Lord Hanuman’s presence. It is also mentioned in some legends that Lord Hanuman is an avatar of Lord Shiva. Folktales vary from region to region and present different ideas.

There is a folktale regarding Lord Hanuman’s birth which explains the reason behind his closeness with Lord Rama, though they meet only later in life. According to the folktale, King Dasaratha conducts a yagnya/pooja under the guidance of sage Agastya to beget children. After the pooja, a divine being appears carrying a pot, and advices the King to give the contents of the pot to his wives. The King paid his respects and started dividing the contents of the pot onto a plate. As the King was about to take the final handful of content from the pot, an eagle swiftly came and carried the pot away. The King tried but was unsuccessful in stopping the eagle. In a nearby forest, the queen (Anjana) of a monkey tribe was doing severe penance to beget a suitable child as their heir. On the advice of Lord Shiva, Lord Vayu (Wind God) stopped the eagle (Lord Garuda) and asked him to transfer the contents of the pot into Lord Vayu’s hand. Lord Vayu then carried the pot to Anjana and advised the queen to consume the contents. Thus making Lord Rama and Lord Hanuman brothers, which explains their legendary friendship.

This is just one out of many folktales, please do share any other legends/folktales you know which lead to Lord Rama and Lord Hanuman being so close.Om

Diwali/Deepavali - Continuation Of Rituals - Vishnu and Lakshmi Pooja

I would like to repeat that though the post may  seem long, the ritual is quite simple and quick.

Now let us move on to the pooja of Lord Mahavishnu (Satyanarayana).

Hold the copper pot with water in your right hand and cover the mouth of the pot with your left hand while  chanting the following sloka 3 times :

Om shanthakaram bhujagashayanam padmanabham suresham

Viswakaram gaganasadrisham meghavarnam shubhangham

Lakshmiikantham kamalanayanam yogihridyanagamyam

Vande vishnumbhavabhayaharam sarvalokaikanatham

Now pour the water over the idol while chanting ‘Om namo narayanaya’ 11 times

Then make every family member take flowers in their right hand and chant the following sloka 21 times (the sloka is by Adi Sankara ). Shower the idol with flowers after each recital..

Vidham shum vidhannirrmalannirvikalpam

Niriihannirakaraomkargamyam

Gunatheethamavyakthamekanthuriyum

Param brahmam yum veda thasme namasthe

Now we shall perform the Diwali pooja for Lakshmi devi. Firstly invoke Lakshmi devi by chanting the following famous sloka 3 times :-

Diwali/Deepavali - Rituals Initiation and Ganesha Pooja

 The rituals that may be practiced during Diwali/Deepavali are the theme of this post. Diwali/Deepavali is an appropriate divine occasion to atone for one’s sins and bring the mind closer to God’s feet. The lamps symbolize divinity and auspiciousness, and the light it emits is to spread these noble forces into our life.

Though the post may seem long, the ritual is very simple and takes little time.A thorough cleaning of the household is the first practice in the initiation of the Diwali/Deepavali celebrations. [I would also like to add that it hasn’t been specified in any scripture that works like cleaning should only be done by women. So please do help your mother and wife to make it a happy and unified effort J ]. It is a common custom to throw away old clothes and unwanted items lying around in the household [I would suggest donating it to needy people who would greatly benefit from even such little things].

Now choose a suitable spot at home where you plan on performing the pooja. Wipe the area with a wet cloth and place a clean cloth on the ground. Place a suitable stool or any similar elevated platform.

As with any ritual in Hindu tradition, after bathing, place an idol of Lord Ganesha on the platform. Then place two clay lamps (diya) on either sides of the idol and keep one main lamp in front of the idol. Then place idols/photos of Lakshmi Devi and Lord Vishnu on either side of Lord Ganesha. [Idols of other gods/goddesses may also be kept according to whom the family believes most in]. A separate lamp may also be kept to represent the family deity (if it is known).It would be advisable to place a suitable plate or utensil under the idols so as to avoid spillage of the pooja items.

Now take water in a small copper/silver pot and pour it slowly over the idol of Lord Ganesha while chanting the following well-known sloka 3 times :-

Overcome Death And Misfortune This Diwali

Though Lord Krishna or Lord Rama are mostly associated with the celebration of Diwali/Deepavali, it is also an appropriate time to appease Lord Shiva and get his blessings to overcome impending misfortunes. Diwali/Deepavali is a very auspicious time to atone for your sins, rejuvenate the soul and be closer to god.

On the holy day of Diwali/Deepavali, it is most fitting to perform Mrityunjaya Pooja and pacify Lord Shiva. As with any ritual in our Hindu tradition, after having a bath, start the pooja process by invoking Lord Ganesha, by chanting the following well-known sloka 3 times :-

Om vakratunda mahakaya kotisurya samaprabha

Nirvighnam kurume deiva sarvakaryeshtu sarvadha

Then place a suitable clay pot in front of you. The clay pot should be able to withstand high levels of heat. We shall be performing a simple ‘yagnya’ in this pot.

Now place suitable dry wood pieces in the clay pot. Take a little copper pot full of pure ghee and keep it near you. Keep a clean tablespoon ready with you. Then dip the handle of the tablespoon into the ghee pot and pour the drops of ghee into the clay pot while chanting the following mantra 7 times :- Om gum ganapathaye namaha . Drop ghee into the clay pot each time you chant the mantra.

Then pay respect to Lord Agni (Fire God) by pouring 3 drops of ghee while chanting Om agnidevaya namaha each time.

Diwali/Deepavali - Lord Krishna's 16,000 Wives

 Another commonly believed legend about the origin of Diwali/Deepavali is about the murder of Narakasura. Narakasura was the son of Mother Earth, who terrorised the world with his evil ways. He had captured more than 16,000 women and held them in his palace. Lord Krishna came to the rescue of these women (who were his devotees), and freed the world from the tyranny of Narakasura. It is said that Diwali/Deepavali originated as a celebration of this freedom from evil. When these freed women returned to their households, but their husbands and families refused to accept them, doubting their dignity . The freed women went to Lord Krishna for help. Lord Krishna allowed the women to live in his palace and gave them the status, respect and protection equivalent to that given to his wife. This allowed the women to live with dignity and they continued to be great devotees of Lord Krishna.

Hence Diwali/Deepavali is also a glorification of Lord Krishna’s infinite compassion for his devotees. Diwali/Deepavali is a reminder that injustice and evil will only lead to one’s destruction.

This legend is one which many atheists and anti-hindus alter and blabber that lord Krishna was a ‘flirt’ and other such disrespectful things. But, I would like to point out that these criticisms are due to the lack of positive understanding. The fact that Lord Krishna provided a shelter to his devotees has been misinterpreted as flirtatious behaviour. Hence I wished to make special mention of this legend.

Please do let me know of your views about this legend in the comments.

Diwali/Deepavali - Legend Of Origin and Celebration

The month of October 2011 is blessed with the presence of two of Hinduism’s biggest festivals – Navratri/Durga Pooja and Diwali / Deepavali. This is the first post in a series of posts about Diwali / Deepavali, regarding it’s origin, celebration and relevance. Diwali / Deepavali is one of the most celebrated festivals in Hinduism. The word ‘Diwali / Deepavali’ literally means a row of clay lamps and hence it is undoubtedly the ‘festival of lights’. But, Diwali / Deepavali is more than just lights, crackers and sweets. Diwali / Deepavali has a universal message, it is a celebration of ‘the triumph of good over evil’.

The starting of Diwali / Deepavali festivities is marked by a thorough cleaning of the household. The ladies of the house throw all old rags, clothes, utensils, etc. and replace them with new ones. Houses are often painted and decorated with lights. The household is beautified to the maximum possible limit of the family.

There are several legends associated with Diwali / Deepavali. One commonly believed legend is that of a celebration of Lord Rama’s return. Diwali / deepavali is said to be the celebration of the day that Lord Rama, Lakshmana and Devi Sita returned to Ayodhya after the 14 years of exile. The citizens of Ayodhya and neighbouring kingdoms were said to have lit lamps and beautified the streets to welcome Lord Rama and Sita Devi. The happiness of the citizens was expressed through the exchange of sweets and gifts. This event is said to be the origin of Diwali / Deepavali celebrations. Every year this celebration is conducted to revive the memory of the joyous victory of Lord Rama. Diwali / Deepavali is hence also an awareness campaign to remind people that the path of justice and dharma is always the best choice. It is a symbolic welcoming of brightness and auspiciousness to one’s life. There are more legends related to Diwali / Deepavali and rituals related to it’s celebration, which we shall see in the rest of the series.Om

Please do share any other legends related to Diwali / Deepavali that you know of, in the comments

Diwali/Deepavali - How Each Day Is Celebrated

Depending on the regional differences, Diwali / Deepavali is celebrated from 1-6 days and follow different rituals. The northern regions of India usually celebrate Diwali / Deepavali for longer durations and give it more importance than the southern regions.

In the five day celebration of Diwali / Deepavali, the first day is known as ‘Gowatsa Dwadashi’. It is celebrated as the day on which the King Prithu chased Mother Earth and eventually brought prosperity to it’s inhabitants. Since Mother Earth is represented as a cow in the legend, on this day pooja is performed for cows and their calves.

The second day known as, Dhanteras is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Dhanwantari , the God of Medicines. It is also considered auspicious to buy gold, silver, gems and other wealth on this day.

Narka Chaturdasi is the name of the third day and is rejoiced as the day on which Lord Krishna killed Narakasura. This day is celebrated by the burning of Narakasura effigies, in a symbolic representation of the destruction of evil. This day is considered as the main day of Diwali / Deepavali. Devotees perform pooja to Lord Vishnu / Krishna, exchange gifts, prepare sweets and burst firecrackers.

The fourth day is celebrated with Lakshmi Devi pooja. It is a request to Devi Lakshmi to bless the family with prosperity and wealth. The lighting of clay lamps (diyas) is done on this day also.

Govardhan pooja is the day on which lord Krishna is said to have saved the villagers from the wrath of Lord Indra by lifting the mighty mountain Govardhana on his little finger. It is the fifth day of Diwali / Deepavali and is celebrated as a show of gratitude to the compassion of the Lord.

The sixth and final day of Diwali / Deepavali is known as Yama Dwitiya. This day is celebrated mostly by the women of the household to ask Lord Yama (the god of death), to safeguard the lives of their brothers and husband.

This is just a very brief look at the various celebrations since like I said before, it varies greatly from region to region. Om

Please do let me know how you celebrate your Diwali / Deepavali through the comments. 

Maha Sudarshan Mantra – For protection From Enemies,Misfortune, Planets & Ghosts

Sudarshan Chakra is the name of the powerful discus weapon present in Lord Mahavishnu’s hand. It is considered one of the most powerful divine weapons capable of destroying all evil.

The following Sudarshan mantra can be regularly chanted to remove all miseries caused by enemies, for protection from unforeseen events and to keep evil entities like ghosts away. Regular chanting of this mantra will cover the devotee's body in a divine aura by the grace of lord Sudarshan. This mantra is especially useful for the exorcism of ghosts.

Om kleem krishnaya govindaya gopjanavallabhaya

Paraya param purushaya paramatmane

Parakarma mantrayantraushadastrashastrani

Samhara samhara mrityormochaya mochaya

Om namo bhagavathe mahasudarshanaya

Deepthre jwala pareethaya sarvvadikshobhannakaraya brahmane

Parajyothishe huum phutt

Try to repeat the mantra for 11 or 108 times daily in the morning or evening (before sunset). It can be made a highly beneficial habit to help us live happily in this ‘kali yuga’.
[ Note - It is advised to practice proper saadhana while using this mantra]

Lord Vishnu Teaches Lord Brahma About Time

There is a simple story told in folk tales that puts the concept of time into perspective for us. Once there was a conversation between Lord brahma and Sage Narada in the presence of Lord Vishnu. Sage narada asked brahma about the secrets of the universe. While explaining, Lord Brahma started boasting about his immortality and how he knew everything about the universe. Sage Narada praised Brahma, and that made him boast even more. Lord Vishnu kept silent during the whole conversation. After Sage Narada left, Vishnu asked Brahma if he would come to meet someone with him. Lord Brahma was in a very happy mood and obliged.

Vishnu manifested a chariot and asked Brahma to be seated in it. Brahma agreed and was taken by Vishnu to a realm of the universe which Lord Brahma himself didn’t know about. Brahma was starting to slowly lose his ego and looked on in awe at the mysterious surroundings. When the chariot stopped and they got down,Lord Brahma saw a sage sitting and meditating at a distance.

Lord Vishnu went near the sage with Brahma and asked the sage to introduce himself to Lord brahma. The sage explained that he has been meditating here for eons and that when the lifetime of one Lord Brahma comes to an end, one hair of the sage becomes grey and falls off (the sage is said to have a full head of long black hair and has a name denoting the same). And after each hair falls off like this from his head, he will die. Lord Brahma was astounded on listening to this. Lord Brahma had believed till now that he was immortal and that there was no end to his powers. 

Then Lord Brahma asked the sage if there are any more such people in this mysterious realm. The sage said that on going ahead there is a sage named ‘Ashtavakra’, who had eight deformities in his body. The sage also added that when all his fair fall off and he dies, one deformity of sage Ashtavakra would be straightened. Lord Brahma was speechless. Vishnu then thanked the sage and went to meet sage Ashtavakra.

Aghora Mantra – To Remove Ghosts, Evil Entites (Exorcism)

Aghora mantra is used to get blessings from the angry avatar of Lord Shiva. It is a request to Lord Shiva to take on his fierce and angry form and come to our assistance. It is used to fight influences from evil ghosts, bad planetary positions, enemies,etc. It is very beneficial to repeat the mantra 21 times while holding a copper pot full of water in your right hand, and then drinking the water or sprinkling it on family members. This will help to safeguard life and property.

Om hreem sphura sphura prasphura prasphura

Kkhora kkhoratharathanuroopa

Chada chada prachada prachada

Kaha kaha vama vama

Bandha bandha khadaya khadaya huum phutt

Life Expectancy Of Lord Brahma (Concept of Yugas explained)

According to most hindu scriptures, it is believed that life exists in cycles of time periods called ‘yugas’. There are 4 yugas according to Hinduism, namely – kritha yuga, Thretha yuga, Dwapara yuga and kali yuga. The present time period is kali yuga, which is rightly described as a time where evil gains full control of mankind. According to the ‘bhagavtha’, the relation between these yugas and our concept of years is as follows :-

One Human Year = One Day In Heaven (lets call it ‘one divine day’)

360 human Years = One Divine Year

Kritha Yuga = 4800 Divine years

                     = 17,28,000 Human years (nope, I didn’t get the zeroes wrong J)

Thretha Yuga=3600 Divine years

                      =12,96,000 Human years

Dwapara Yuga=2400 Divine years

                         =8,64,000 Human years

Kali Yuga=1200 Divine years                  

                 =4,32,000 Human years

This one set of yugas is together termed a ‘chaturyuga’.

Hence,

       1 chatur yuga = Kritha yuga + Thretha yuga + Dwapara yuga + Kali yuga

                              = 12,000 Divine years

                              = 43,20,000 human years

Now it starts to get really mind-blowing. J

2000 chatur yugas = 1 day for Lord Brahma

360 Brahma days = 1 Brahma year

100 Brahma years = Life of one Lord Brahma

So according to the Hindu scripture, an estimate of Lord brahma’s life expectancy is….wait for it….31,10,40,00,00,00,000 Human years !!!!!....After which 'pralaya' or a rejuvenation of all creation is said to occur.....At present, we are roughly 5800 years into the 'kali yuga'...

Hope that puts time in a better perspective, do let me know your fascination and views on time in the comments 

ATTENTION - Beloved OnlyHinduism Readers

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This is to let our readers know of a guest post from OnlyHinduism published on the site Hindu-blog [thank you Mr.Abhilash]. 
The post can be read from the provided link, and is titled "Modern Vedas and Lagging science - Vedic Knowledge Scores Over Science" .
It is a brief look at how our Vedas had identified and understood the most complex theories and laws while other civilizations had still not begun. Hope you enjoy the post. 


"Modern Vedas and Lagging science - Vedic Knowledge Scores Over Science" .


Please do let us know your valuable comments/suggestions in the comments. 


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Slokas To Prevent Nightmares

This sloka is useful to prevent having nightmares. Every night before sleeping, sit and chant this sloka 3 times in your mind. It is the name of 7 powerful gods and characters in Hindu mythology. it is believed that the utterance of their name is enough to keep all evil entities away from causing nightmares

Om braahmanam shankarum vishnum

yamum ramum dhanum bhaliim

sapthai thaan yah smare nithyam

dhuswapnam thasyanuu nashyathi

The sloka given below is also used to prevent having nightmares. This sloka is especially beneficial for little kids to chant before sleeping. It is advisable to try and instill this practice of sloka chanting as a habit in children at a young age itself. This sloka is is the 12 divine names of lord Hanuman , who is always willing to come to the rescue of his devotees.

om hare rama 

hanuman anjanasuno vayuputro mahabhala

Rameshtt phalguna sakha pingaksh amithavikrama

udhadhikramana sithashokavinashaka 

lakshmana praanadatha dasagreevasyadarpaha

What Is Devotion ?

Any religion or ritual is complete only if practiced with devotion. A robotic repetition of words or actions can not capture the infinite power approachable through devotion. But, how exactly do we explain this state of mind dubbed ‘devotion’?

Devotion does not necessarily require sacrifice of all worldly possessions or severe penance. Devotion is an emotional attachment with God, but that does not require a mandatory detachment from this world. The measure of devotion is sincerity and belief. These sentiments are often overshadowed by the presence of distractions in the mind. Hence it is necessary to focus all our senses towards devotion. [This is the reason behind the special ambience provided in temples, where there are visual and audio factors present to induce concentration towards devotion.]

Devotion is a sentiment which has to be present in the mind and not only in words. Devotion itself can be of several forms. There are references in our scriptures to god being pleased with being considered as a master, teacher, parent, friend and even as an enemy. Even if one considers himself/herself as an enemy, it requires an uninhibited and continuous thought about god and his influences on life. It establishes an involuntary communication with God. This single-minded surrender to God is a distinguishing factor of devotion.

Who is a Devotee ? - By Lord Vishnu

There is an interesting folktale that explains god’s judgement of devotion. Sage Narada used to always be proud of the fact that he always chants ‘narayana’(lord Vishnu’s name) and is Lord Vishnu’s greatest devotee. One day sage Narada asked Lord Vishnu whom he considered his biggest devotee, in the expectation that it would be himself. But, lord Vishnu told that there is a particular farmer who is his greatest devotee. Sage narada was stunned to know that Lord Vishnu didn’t consider him as his best devotee. He was even more shocked to know that the greatest devotee was not a saint or a great king but just a normal farmer. Sage narada enquired what made the farmer special. Lord Vishnu took sage Narada to meet the farmer from the sky. Lord Vishnu told narada to observe the farmer for a whole day and then return to Heaven. 

After completing the observation and returning, Lord Vishnu asked Narada what he saw. Narada said that the famrmer didn’t perform any rituals or pooja. The farmer only chanted the lord’s name thrice a day and not more. Sage narada continued and then asked, how is this famrer a greater devotee than himself who always chants god’s name.

To this lord Vishnu smiled and gave Sage narada a little pot full of water. Lord Vishnu told sage Narada to walk 25 steps with this pot on his head but on the condition that a single drop of water should not drop out. Sage narada completed the task as he was told. Now, Lord Vishnu asked sage Narada how many times he remembered god during this task. Sage narada was embarrassed and confessed that he hadn’t thought of god even once since he was busy making sure the water doesn’t spill. Lord Vishnu smiled and said “the greatness of the farmer is that he sincerely and selflessly remembered god while performing his own duties. This pleases me the most and such a devotee is of utmost greatness for me”.Sage Narada lost all his ego and praised the greatness of lord Vishnu.

What characteristics are essential for a devotee according to you? Please do share your views in the comments.   

Sloka To Chant While Ringing Bell In Temples & Home

It is a common ritual in Hindu temples to ring bells during aarathi and pooja. The ringing of the bell is not an attempt to show one’s presence at the temple or to wake up a sleeping god, as many believe. The rituals in temples like sounding a conch or ringing the bell are ways of creating a suitable ambience for devotion. These sounds distract us from any disturbing noises that may be prevalent in the premises, and focuses our attention towards the pooja. Also, it is said that the sound produced by the conch and while ringing the bell produces positive vibrations which enhances the spiritual experience of the devotee. The sloka below is to be chanted while ringing the bell at temples as a prayer to usher in auspiciousness.

Aagamaarthamtu devaanaam

Gamanaarthamtu rakshasaam

Kurve ghantaaravam tatra

Devataahvaahna lakshanam

Meaning - “I ring this bell to invoke divinity to let noble forces enter my heart and keep demonic forces away from it”

Sloka To Chant While Lighting The Lamp At Home

The lamp is given great significance in Hinduism. It is a representation of ‘agni’/fire , the universal witness. ‘Agni’ is said to be the only element which purifies other things without getting impure itself, and is hence regarded as a demi-god. The influence that fire has in our life is very obvious and important. The Hindu ritual of lighting a lamp in the morning and evening is a way of having a representative of God amidst us. The fire of the lamp (and the lamp itself) is considered on par with an idol of God in temples and during poojas. The sloka below is to be chanted while lighting the lamp at home to bring welfare to the family.

Subham karoti kalyanam

Arogyam dhana sampadah

Shatru buddhi vinashaya

Deepa jyotir namosthuthe

Meaning - “I salute the lamplight that brings auspiciousness, abundance of wealth, good health and destroys all enemies of intellect ”

Lord Surya Gayatri Mantra - For curing eye-diseases

The sun/lord surya is generally worshipped in almost all parts of the world as a god. Lord surya directly and indirectly influences every aspect of our life on Earth. This gayatri mantra can be used to please lord surya and hence greatly improve the condition of your health.The  This mantra is especially useful to combat eye diseases and to maintain good eyesight. With the blessings from Lord Surya you will be able to work harder, be more active and achieve greater success. It is recommended to practice 108 repetitions of this mantra in the morning (before sunrise) or in the evening (before sunset). Attainment of mantra siddhi is said to occur after 21 continuous days of saadhana.

Om aadithyaya vidmahe

Sahsrakiranaya dheemahi

Thanno bhanuh prachodayathu

Narasimha/Nrisimha Mantra – For Ultimate Protection From Evil

Lord Narasimha / Nrisimha is said to be one of Lord Mahavishnu’s fiercest avatars. Lord Vishnu took this avatar to help a devotee in distress and hence the chanting of the narasimha/nrisimha mantra will help to get the same type of protection from Lord Vishnu. Lord Narasimha / nrisimha is said to be one of the most fiercest, powerful and destructive avatars of Mahavishnu. There is no evil entity that cannot be overcome by the power of lord Narasimha / nrisimha.

Whenever in distress or faced with a seemingly impossible task, the chanting of narasimha/nrisimha mantra will help by taking you towards safety and success.

Ugram veeram mahavishnuum jwalanthum sarvathoo mugham

Nrisimham bheeshannam bhadhram mrityumrityum namaamyaham

The regular chanting of this mantra for 11,21 or 108 times daily will help to safeguard you and your family. It is beneficial to chant the mantra with some ‘kumkum/vermillion’ taken in the right hand, and then applied to the forehead. This will help to prevent others from casting any ‘evil eye’ on you and will make your situations more positive.

Fulfil Desires By Circumambulation In Temples

It is a common Hindu practice to perform a circumambulation around temples.  Even Muslims perform such circumambulations at the holy Mecca. This post deals with the specific benefits attached to the number of times circumambulation is done in temples.

It is important to note that the term circumambulation around the temple does not mean a brisk walk. It denotes a slow devotional walk around the temple so as to fully absorb and benefit from the positive energy present there. It is described that the pace of circumambulation should be equivalent to ‘a 6months pregnant woman walking while carrying a vessel full of water’. This importance to a slow pace is given since the object around which we are performing circumambulation (god’s idol) is one which radiates immense positive energy all around it, and the aim of the circumambulation is to fully make use of this energy. The slow pace along with the chanting of the god’s name, influences us psychologically. The effect of the positive energy from the temple and our own concentration on the god, enables our stress to be relieved and increases the sharpness of our mind.

Circumambulation can also be used as a form of ‘saadhana’ for the fulfilment of one’s desires. Below I present a list of the number of circumambulation and the specific desires which are said to be fulfilled through them.

                                        3 – attainment of desired skill/talent

                                        5 – success

                                        7 – overcoming enemies

                                        9 – to beget children for childless couples

                                       11- safeguarding life expectancy

                                       13- fulfilment of a specific desire/wish

                                       15- to be wealthier

                                       17 – to be more prosperous

                                       19 – to overcome diseases

                                       21 – to increase knowledge

                                       25 – for general well-being

                                     108 – fulfilment of all desires

The ritual of circumambulation is to be performed daily for a minimum period of 21 days to fulfil one’s desire. I reiterate that it is important to chant god’s name/mantra and pray with devotion while performing the circumambulation slowly for it to be beneficial.

Lord Krishna's Horses

Most of you would have seen the picture of lord Krishna as Arjuna’s charioteer. Here are the names of the 5 horses which pulled lord Krishna’s chariot.

• Kamagha
• Shybhya
• Sugreeva
• Meghapushpa
• Valahaka

It is often interpreted by scholars that the 5 horses represent the five senses. It is said that the concept is symbolic to denote that Arjuna was able to succeed only because he surrendered his sense to Lord Krishna.

Mahamrityunjaya Mantra - To overcome fear, death, disease & planetary influences

‘Mrityunjaya’ literally means ‘victory over death’, while ‘maha’ refers to ‘great’. The reference to a victory over death doesn’t mean that you can be immortal, but rather refers to overcoming the fear of death and leading a happy life. This mantra is used to get the blessings from Lord Shiva, who is also himself known as ‘Mrityunjaya’.

 ‘Apamrityu’ (unexpected death), comes to a person’s life 5-7 times, and is said to be the occurrence of death before the full lifetime allotted by the horoscope. There are instances where a person’s life is put at risk due to ‘karma’ effects or unfortunate interferences, and such instances may result in death (apamrityu). But, such instances are possible to be overcome with the help of optimum remedial measures, amongst which ‘mahamrityunjaya mantra’ is most essential.

The regular chanting of mahamrityunjaya mantra helps to overcome situations of ‘apamrityu’ and to ward off influences from evil entities or bad planetary positions. Mahamrityunjaya mantra can also help to recover from serious diseases and poverty.

Om trayambakam yajamahe

Sugandhim pushtivardhanam

Urrvvarukamiva bandhnaal mrityurmmukshiiyamaamrithaathu

The Mahamrityunjaya mantra may be chanted 54 or 108 times daily in the morning after bathing. It is advisable to also chant 'om namah shivaya' 108 times before starting to chant the Mahamrityunjaya mantra.

Rare Gayatri Devi Sloka - For Unlocking Wisdom

A rare sloka (prayer) recited in praise of Mother Gayatri to remove ignorance and bring positive change to life. 

Mukthavidhruma hemaneela

Dhavallachchayair mukaisthriikshnairyukthamindhu

Nibdharathnamakudaam

Bahwarththavarnnathmikaam

Gayathreem varadhabhayaankushakashaam

Shuubrum kapaalum gunnam

Chakram shanghmatharavindhayugallam

Hasthairvahantheem bhaje

The chanting of this sloka 3 times daily in the morning is said to bring infinite wisdom to the devotee. This sloka is suitable for students and professionals to help them gain their full potential.

Birth Of Kalki (Lord Vishnu’s Tenth Incarnation/Avatar)

In the ‘Bhagavatha’ scripture it is predicted that the tenth incarnation/avatar of Lord Mahavishnu will take place in a village called ‘shaballa’. He will be born to a poor Brahmin called ‘Vishnuyeshas’.

Durga Devi Gayatri Mantra- To overcome enemies and make life fulfilling

Mother Durga/Devi maa is infinitely caring and loving towards her children. Nothing can be achieved in life without the blessings of Mother Durga. 

This gayatri mantra of Durga devi will help to remove all sufferings from your life and make everything around you positive. It is recommended to practice chanting this mantra 108 times daily in the morning during sunrise. This mantra will help overcome your enemies and establish a protective aura around you always. With the blessings of Durga devi obtained through this mantra, your life will become more successful, happy and fulfilling. 

Om mahashoolinyai vidmahe

Mahadurgayai dheemahi

Thanno bhagavathi prachodayathu

The chanting of this Durga Devi Gayatri Mantra is especially beneficial during important days for Durga Devi like Durga Pooja , Fridays and Tuesdays.