Shabrimala Temple

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Sabarimala Temple is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Periyar Tiger Reserve in the Western Ghat mountain ranges of Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, a revered deity in Hinduism. The temple is known for its unique traditions and attracts millions of devotees each year, especially during the annual Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season.

The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Ayyappa, who is considered to be a union of Lord Vishnu (In his Mohini Avatar) and Lord Shiva. Devotees believe that Lord Ayyappa is a celibate deity and embark on a spiritual journey to seek his blessings. The pilgrimage season at Sabarimala begins in November and ends in January. The most significant days are during the Makar Sankranti festival, when the Makaravilakku is observed. Devotees follow strict austerities during the pilgrimage, and there are specific dress codes and rituals to be followed.

Devotees who plan to visit Sabarimala undertake a 41-day vow of self-discipline and abstinence known as "Vratham." During this period, they observe strict rules, including celibacy, vegetarianism, abstinence from alcohol, and refrain from cutting hair or nails. The devotees carry Irumidi (cotton cloth bag) on their head which has Pooja items in it. The pathway leading to the main sanctum sanctorum has 18 sacred steps, which are believed to represent the 18 hills surrounding the temple. Only male devotees between the ages of 12 and 70 who have completed the Vratham are allowed to climb these steps and have the darshan (sacred view) of the deity.

Sabarimala has been historically known for its tradition of prohibiting women of menstruating age (typically between 10 and 50 years) from entering the temple. This tradition has been the subject of much controversy and legal challenges in recent years. Devotees can reach the temple via different trekking routes through the dense forests. The main pathways are the Pamba route and the Erumeli route, and both provide a spiritual and challenging journey for the devotees. The temple hosts several festivals, with the most prominent being the Makaravilakku festival during the Makar Sankranti. The event involves the ceremonial lighting of a lamp atop Ponnambalamedu, a nearby hill, which is believed to be Lord Ayyappa's abode during this time.

Sabarimala Temple holds immense cultural and religious significance for Hindus, and the pilgrimage is considered a transformative and purifying experience for devotees who undertake it. The temple's unique traditions and rituals make it one of the most famous pilgrimage destinations in India.

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Padmanabhaswamy Temple

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Padmanabhaswamy Temple, also known as Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, is an ancient Hindu temple located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here in the Anantha Shayana posture (reclining on the serpent Ananta). The temple is renowned for its rich history, architectural beauty, and immense wealth. 

The exact age of the temple is uncertain, but it is believed to be several centuries old, with its history dating back to the 8th century. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams, the holiest abodes of Lord Vishnu mentioned in Hindu scriptures. The temple exhibits a unique blend of Dravidian and Kerala architectural styles. The main entrance features a magnificent Gopuram (tower) with intricate carvings and sculptures. On the day of the equinox (when day and night have the same duration), sunlight passes through all five windows of the Sree Padmanabha Swamy temple tower, during sunset.

 The principal deity, Lord Padmanabha, is represented in a reclining posture on the serpent Ananta (Sesha) with one hand resting on Shiva Linga. The temple is also known for its rare representation of Lord Vishnu with a lotus flower emerging from his navel, on which Lord Brahma is seated.

The temple gained global attention in recent times due to the discovery of hidden vaults (Kallaras) containing immense wealth. Several underground chambers were opened in 2011, revealing an unprecedented amount of gold, silver, precious stones, and historical artifacts. The wealth found in the temple's vaults is estimated to be one of the richest in the world. However, the exact value of the treasure remains uncertain, as access to some vaults has been restricted by the Supreme Court of India, citing security and religious reasons.

The temple hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Navaratri festival, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The Alpashy festival is another significant event when the deity is adorned with pure gold ornaments.The temple follows a strict dress code, and visitors are required to wear traditional attire. Men are expected to wear mundu (a traditional dhoti) while women should wear sarees or skirts and blouses. The temple is managed by a trust headed by the royal family of Travancore, with the titular Maharaja of Travancore serving as the trustee. The administration of the temple follows a hereditary system.

Padmanabhaswamy Temple's historical significance, architectural grandeur, and the mystery surrounding its hidden treasure make it a prominent cultural and spiritual landmark in India. It continues to attract devotees, historians, and tourists from around the world.

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Nav Durga

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Nav Durga, also known as the Nine Forms of Goddess Durga, is a significant aspect of Hindu mythology and worship. Each form represents a unique facet of the goddess and is venerated during the nine-day festival of Navratri. Adi Parashakti (Durga) took 9 forms to kill the demon Mahishasur (to celebrate good over evil), the festival is known as Navratri, The nine forms of Nav Durga are as follows:

1. Shailaputri: 

The first form, Shailaputri, is depicted as the daughter of the Himalayas. She symbolizes the embodiment of nature and purity and is worshipped on the first day of Navratri.

2. Brahmacharini: 

The second form, Brahmacharini, represents the unmarried and penance-seeking aspect of Goddess Durga. She symbolizes perseverance and devotion and is worshipped on the second day.

3. Chandraghanta: 

The third form, Chandraghanta, is depicted with a half-moon on her forehead, resembling a bell (ghanta). She is believed to symbolize bravery and is worshipped on the third day.

4. Kushmanda: 

The fourth form, Kushmanda, is said to have created the universe with her divine smile. She represents cosmic energy and is worshipped on the fourth day.

5. Skandamata: 

The fifth form, Skandamata, is depicted as the mother of Lord Skanda (Kartikeya). She is the symbol of motherly love and protection and is worshipped on the fifth day.

6. Katyayani:

 The sixth form, Katyayani, is believed to have manifested to destroy the demon Mahishasura. She symbolizes courage and is worshipped on the sixth day.

7. Kalaratri: 

The seventh form, Kalaratri, is depicted with a dark complexion and a fierce appearance. She represents the destroyer of darkness and is worshipped on the seventh day.

8. Mahagauri: 

The eighth form, Mahagauri, is portrayed as radiant and compassionate. She symbolizes purity and is worshipped on the eighth day.

9. Siddhidatri:

 The ninth form, Siddhidatri, is the bestower of divine blessings and supernatural powers. She is worshipped on the ninth and final day of Navratri.

During Navratri, devotees offer prayers and perform various rituals to seek the blessings and protection of each form of Nav Durga. It is a time of great devotion and celebration in honor of the goddess's power and grace.

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Why we celebrate janmashtami?

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Janmashtami is a Hindu festival celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Krishna, who is considered one of the most beloved divinities in Hinduism. The festival falls on the Ashtami (eighth day) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the month of Bhadrapada, which generally falls in August or September.

The festival of Janmashtami holds great significance for several reasons:

1. Birth of Lord Krishna: 

Janmashtami marks the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, who is believed to be the eighth icon of Lord Vishnu. According to Hindu holy scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita and the Bhagavata Purana, Lord Krishna manifested on Earth to restore dharma (righteousness) and protect his devotees.

2. Divine Leelas (Playful Activities): 

Lord Krishna's life is filled with godly leelas (playful activities) that showcase his beauty, intelligence, and devotion. The stories of his babyhood, such as stealing butter (Makhan Chor) and playing the flute (Murali Manohar), are celebrated during Janmashtami.

3. Midnight Celebration: 

It is believed that Lord Krishna was born at midnight. Therefore, the most important celebrations takes place during the late evening and into the early hours of the next day, with devotees observing performing pujas (rituals), singing bhajans (devotional songs), and fasting.

4. Krishna Bhakti (Devotion):

Janmashtami is an occasion for devotees to show their love and devotion to Lord Krishna. They take part in various festivities, visit temples, and engage in prayer and meditation to seek his blessings.

5. Temples and Processions: 

Temples dedicated to Lord Krishna, especially the famous ones like Mathura, Vrindavan, and Dwarka, observe grand fest during Janmashtami. Complex decorations, recitals of Krishna's stories, and processions of his shrine are common sights during the festival.

6. Raslila Performances: 

In some regions, people perform Raslila, a traditional dance-drama depicting Krishna's playful interaction with the Gopis (cowherd girls) of Vrindavan. These performances show the godly love between Krishna and his devotees.

Janmashtami is a joyous occasion that brings communities together, fostering a sense of devotion and union among Hindus. It serves as a memorial of Lord Krishna's teachings on love, duty, and the path to spiritual salvation, inspiring people to follow the path of righteousness and devotion in their lives.

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12 Jyotirlinga

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The 12 Jyotirlingas are sacred sancturies devoted to Lord Shiva, and they hold important significance in Hindu mythology. Each Jyotirlinga represents a unique incarnation of Lord Shiva's divine power. Here's a brief overview of the story behind each of the 12 Jyotirlingas:

1. Somnath (Prabhas Patan, Saurashtra, Gujarat):

The first Jyotirlinga, Somnath, is said to have been established by the Moon God (Chandra) to seek penance for his sins. The temple has been rebuilt several times due to various historical events.

2. Mallikarjuna (Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh):

Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is positioned on the Shri Shaila mountain on the banks of the Krishna River. The temple is associated with the legend of Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati.

3. Mahakaleshwar (Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh):

Mahakaleshwar is located in Ujjain and is believed to be the spot where Lord Shiva appeared as a column of light (Jyotirlinga) to master the demon Dushana.

4. Omkareshwar (Mandhata Island, Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh):

The Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is positioned on an island in the Narmada River and represents Lord Shiva as the "Om" sound, the early sound of creation.

5. Kedarnath (Kedarnath, Uttarakhand):

Kedarnath is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in the Himalayas. The Jyotirlinga here is associated with the Pandavas from the Mahabharata and is believed to have been established by them.

6. Bhimashankar (Pune, Maharashtra):

Bhimashankar is located in the Sahyadri Range, and its origin is linked to a battle between Lord Shiva and the demon Tripurasura.

7. Kashi Vishwanath (Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh):

Kashi Vishwanath, positioned in Varanasi, is one of the holiest temples in India. The Jyotirlinga represents Lord Shiva's incarnation as the sovereign of the universe.

8. Trimbakeshwar (Nashik, Maharashtra):

Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga is located near Nashik and is associated with the source of the Godavari River. It is believed to have been established by Rishi Gautama.

9. Vaidyanath (Deoghar, Jharkhand):

Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga is positioned in Deoghar and is connected to the legend of Goddess Sati's limbs falling here during Lord Shiva's Tandava dance.

10. Nageshwar (Dwarka, Gujarat):

Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is positioned near Dwarka and is associated with the story of a demon named Daruka and the demoness who sought blessings from Lord Shiva.

11. Rameshwar (Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu):

Rameshwar Jyotirlinga is located on Rameswaram Island and is connected to the story of Lord Rama installing a Shivalinga here after the Ramayana.

12. Grishneshwar (Aurangabad, Maharashtra):

Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is situated near Ellora Caves and is linked to the story of a pious woman named Kusuma seeking Lord Shiva's blessings.

Devotees believe that visiting these Jyotirlingas and seeking Lord Shiva's blessings can grant them spiritual enlightenment and fulfillment of their wishes.

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Previous Life of Ravan and Kumbhakaran

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In Hindu mythology, Ravana and Kumbhakarna are two prominent characters associated with the epic Ramayana. In their previous lives, Ravana and Kumbhakarna were originally two celestial beings who were known as Jaya and Vijaya. They served as the gatekeepers of Lord Vishnu's abode, Vaikuntha (the divine realm of Vishnu), in their celestial forms. Four Kumaras (four divine sages) also known as Sankadik Muni, visited Vaikuntha but were stopped by Jaya and Vijaya. As they wasted 3 seconds of Sankadik Rishi, the four kumara's cursed Jaya and Vijaya that they will be born on Earth as demon princes for three lifetimes and will be killed by Lord Vishnu. These lifetimes are depicted in three different contexts in Hindu mythology:

In the first incarnation, Jaya and Vijaya were born as the demon brothers Hiranyakashipu and Hiranyaksha. Hiranyakashipu was the father of the demon king Prahlada, who became a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu, leading to the defeat of Hiranyakashipu by the Narasimha avatar of Vishnu, half-lion and half-human.Hiranyaksha was killed by Varaha the 3rd Incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

In the second incarnation, Jaya and Vijaya were born as Ravana and Kumbhakarna, respectively. Ravana, the powerful king of Lanka, abducted Lord Vishnu's consort, Goddess Sita, leading to the epic battle with Lord Rama, Vishnu's seventh avatar.

In the third incarnation, Jaya and Vijaya were born as Shishupala and Dantavakra, respectively. They were enemies of Lord Krishna and were slain by him during the great war at the Rajasuya Yagna.

After these three lifetimes, Jaya and Vijaya were freed from the curse and were allowed to return to their original celestial abode as Lord Vishnu's gatekeepers in Vaikuntha.

The tale of Jaya and Vijaya serves as a significant aspect of Hindu mythology, illustrating the interplay of fate, curses, devotion, and redemption. Their story also emphasizes the supremacy of Lord Vishnu and his avatars in vanquishing evil and restoring dharma (righteousness) in the world.

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Curse of Vedavati to Ravana

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Vedavati was a virtuous and devout woman born to Brahmarishi Kushadhvaja, who was the son of Brihaspati, the guru of devas. Vedavati was the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. She was devotee of Lord Vishnu and wanted him as her Husband. In an act of penance and dedication, Vedavati decided to perform severe austerities (tapasya). During her meditation, she endured immense hardships and stood in the middle of five sacred fires, absorbing their heat. 

Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, happened to pass by and saw Vedavati in her penance. He was struck by her beauty and wanted to possess her, but Vedavati rejected his advances, stating that she had reserved her heart for Narayana alone. Ravana, known for his arrogance and lust, became infuriated and tried to force himself upon her. In response, Vedavati cursed Ravana that he would be destroyed by a woman in the future.

Vedavati then invoked the Agni (the fire god) to consume her body, and before being engulfed by the flames, she declared that she would return to the mortal world and be the reason that will bring an end to Ravana's life.

True to her words, Vedavati was born as the daughter of Ravana. Soon the baby was born, a voice from the sky warned that the baby will be responsible for ravana's death. As to save his life, he threw the baby into the sea. The baby fell on the lap of Sea Goddess Varuni, she took the baby to the shores and handed her to Goddess of Earth, Prithvi Devi. Later Prithvi Devi handed the Child to King Janaka. 

Sita eventually married Lord Rama, and as the story goes, Ravana's infatuation with Sita and his abduction of her led to his ultimate downfall. Lord Rama, along with the help of Hanuman and his army of monkeys, waged a war against Ravana and defeated him, fulfilling the curse of Vedavati.

This event is considered one of the pivotal moments in the Ramayana and symbolizes the consequences of arrogance, lust, and mistreatment of women. It also highlights the power of a devoted and virtuous woman's curse, which played a significant role in shaping the events of the epic.

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