Vijayadashami is a big festival in Shirdi, venerated as a
holy day and it is visited by millions of pilgrims every year.Devotees
celebrate this day as Sai Baba Punyatithi every year which falls on
the day of Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami.
Shodashopachara Pooja
There are Sixteen Steps involved in Performing Shodashopachara Pooja. All the Rituals are Common but Mantras may be different basing on Pooja (Ganesh pooja,Krishna Pooja, Shiva pooja, Durga Pooja ..etc).
Steps Involved :
Steps Involved :
- Avahanam : The god to be worshipped is called upon that is a worshipper invokes the god or goddess he/she wishes to worship.
- Aasanam : Offering seat ( Appropriate position)
- Paadyam : The feet of the God must be Washed.
- Arghyaam : Water containing sandal paste, rice, grains and flowers is poured over the deity.
- Achaman : Water is offered to diety .And the Same water is sipped by Devotee himself
- Snanam : Offering Bath to god(diety).
- Vasthram : Offering new clothes
- Yagnopaveetham : Offers Sacred thread to diety
- Gandham : Sandal wood paste ,Sindoor, kumkum Is applied to diety.
- Alankaram : Decorating the diety
- Pushpam :- Flowers are offered to the deity.
- Dhupam - Incense sticks or camphor are lit. Incense sticks purifies the atmosphere
- Deepam - A lamp is lit and placed in front of the deity.
- Naivedyam - Eatables are offered to the deity. Later distributed as prasadam for devotees
- Thambulam : Betel leaves and nuts are offered to diety
- Harathi is given to the diety.
Devotees offers namaskars to the diety, And then give Dakshina to the priests who performed the pooja.
In Hindu Communities Shodashopachara Pooja is Considered As Full-flegded pooja.
ADDALA MANDAPAM - Tirumala
Twelve feet to the north of ‘Srikrishnadevarayala
mandapam’, there is a glass porch. Every day at 2 p.m. a service called
dolotsavam is performed to the Lord in this glass porch. Devotees are permitted
to participate in this paid seva.
MAHADWARA GOPURAM - Tirumala
The Padi Kavali Maha Dwara or Outer Gopuram stands on a
quadrangular base.
Its architecture is that of the later Chola period. The
inscriptions on thegopuram belong to 13th century. There are a number of
stucco figures ofVaishnava gods like Hanuman, Kevale
Narasimha and Lakshmi Narasimha on the gopuram.
Diwali customs
Diwali is not only festival of lights or firing
crackers, but also for prayers, pujas and ritual baths. Diwali, the vibrant
festival observed all over India with utmost devotion and joy, celebrates the
victory of good over evil and knowledge over darkness.
Traditions followed during this festival :
- On
the auspicious day of Diwali, prayers are offered to Goddess Lakshmi
- All
the members of family visit temples for Blessings of God/Godesses
- Puja
is performed in this auspicious days
- In
some villages cattles are worshipped(particularly in South india)
- In
some areas they also play cards
- Lighting
diyas or oil/ghee lamps is an important tradition.
- People
also believe that as Diwali falls on a no-moon night, lamps help Goddess
Lakshmi to reach their households. Hence, people leave the diyas to burn
all through the night.
- Rangoli
is another important tradition followed,all houses are decorated with
rangolis
- Diwali
is regarded as an auspicious occasion to give and receive gifts
- Days
before the celebration of Diwali, people clean every nook and corner of
their home and premises.
- The
homes and premises are decorated beautifully with thorans, flower
garlands, strings of colorful LED lights, ribbons and streamers.
- Diwali
- is considered auspicious to purchase jewelry and utensils made of
silver. People shop for cutlery made of silver, steel, copper and other
metals.
Lastly,Diwali celebration is not complete without
fireworks and crackers. It is believed that busting crackers will keep evil
spirits away from home. People of all ages - from children to the old one
- enjoy bursting crackers on the occasion. Choti Diwali is exclusive for small
children to express their happiness and enjoyment, by bursting crackers.
Crackers are burst during the night time in northern parts of India, while in
southern parts of the country celebrations starts from early morning.
Diwali Celebrations
The festival of Diwali is celebrated by the Indians
throughout the world with special enthusiasm and zeal. May be this is why, it
is the most popular as well as liked festival in the country.This festival
lasts for five days.
Celebrations
First Day (Dhanteras)
On the first day, popularly known as Dhanteras, people offer
prayers to goddess Lakshmi to bring wealth prosperity to the households.
Second Day (Chhoti Diwali)
The second day of Diwali is known by the name 'Chhoti Diwali'
(small Diwali). This day is also known as 'Naraka Chaturdashi' or 'Kali
Chaudas' in some states. It is believed that it was on this day that Lord
Krishna killed the evil demon Narakasura. On this day, people offer prayers to
Lord Krishna, Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Rama.
Third Day - Badi Diwali or Lakshmi Puja
The third day of DIWALI also called Badi Diwali is the main
day of celebrations of the festival of Diwali. People perform Lakshmi Pujan (worship
of divine Goddess Lakshmi) on this day and offer prayers to her to bless them
with wealth and prosperity. On this day people clean their homes and decorate
it with various colorful lights and fire crackers to express their joy.
Fourth Day - Govardhan Puja (Gowardhan Puja)
The fourth day of Diwali is known for Govardhan Puja or Annakoot. It is believed that it was on this day that lord Krishna defeated Lord Indra, the god of rains. The legend says that Lord Krishna lifted Mount Govardhana to save lives of the people. To honour the day, people arrange food in the shape of mountain. Another legend, which is popular in South India, says that it is on this day Lord Vishnu pushed the demon king Bali down to the 'patal lok' .
Diwali History & Legends
Diwali is one of the prominent Indian festivals, celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout the country. The festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. People light 'diyas' or lamps and string lights across the rooftops to illuminate their homes and celebrate the day with crackers. At the entrances of homes, colorful 'rangolis' and flowers are displayed.
People clean their houses thoroughly to welcome Goddess Lakshmi into their households. They wear traditional, new clothes and women adorn themselves with ornaments. In modern times, people enjoy shopping with their families and purchase clothes and sweets to gift to their loved ones.
History
:
The festival of Diwali is believed to have originated from
the 'Puranas' and can be traced back to the ancient times. Many legends are
associated with the celebration of this festival .Among these legends, the
commonly believed fable narrates the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom in
Ayodhya, after defeating the 'asura' king Ravana. By lighting oil lamps,
displaying rangoli designs, and decorating households, the people of Ayodhya
rejoiced and welcomed their king, Lord Rama, his wife Sita and his younger brother
Lakshmana.'Narakasura' was an evil 'asura' who obtained a boon from Lord
Brahma, to conquer the both the 'devas' and the mortals. As a result, he
thrashed all who came in his path. Even Lord Indra, was dispelled from his own
kingdom of 'Devaloka'. Mortified, Indra approached Lord Krishna for help. Lord
Krishna along with his wife Satyabhama, headed to kill Naraka at night.This
victory was celebrated by lighting of lamps and feasting.Goddess Lakshmi
appeared when the ocean was churned by devas and asuras in the quest to
retrieve'Amrita' or the magic potion of immortality. She emerged out of the sea
and stood on a blossomed lotus with a lotus garland around her neck. The
festival of Diwali is celebrated to welcome goddess Lakshmi into the household,
who is considered to be the bestower of wealth and prosperity.
Legends :
It is said that the occasion of Diwali is actually the birth
anniversary of Goddess Lakshmi. As per Legends, the Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi
was re-incarnated on the new moon day (amaavasyaa) of the Kartik month while
the samudra-manthan by the Gods and Demons. This is why Diwali is celebrated to
mark the importance of this day and seek the blessings of Goddess of prosperity
for a lucky and happy future ahead. Some of the mythological books also
relate the occasion of Diwali to Lord Krishna’s victory over Narkasur.According
to 'Mahabharata', Diwali is celebrated in order to mark the return of the
Pandavas from 12 year exile. It is said that on the occasion of ‘Kartik
Amavasya', the Pandavas were welcomed by the people of their hometown by
lighting earthen lamps. Since then Diwali is celebrated to mark the return of
Pandava brothers .According to the 'Ramayana', it was the new moon day of
Kartik when Lord Ram, along with his wife Sita and Lakshman returned to Ayodhya
after killing the ten headed Ravana and conquering his empire ‘Lanka’ as well
as establishing a kingdom of peace and prosperity there. The citizens of
Ayodhya overjoyed by the return of their dear prince lightened the entire city
with the earthen lamps and illuminated it like never before. It was when the
first ‘ Diwali’ was celebrated.
DASARA CELEBRATIONS
Dussehra is the culmination of Navaratis in
India. Popularly known as Vijayadashmi, Dussehra is celebrated with great
enthusiasm, all over India.
Durga Puja Celebrations
Durga puja is one of the most popular
Hindu festival in the country.It is a ten days long festival in which Goddess
Durga, the Hindu goddess of power, Durga or Shakti is worshipped in nine
different forms.During the festival the entire nation welcomes Durga with
immense fervor. The puja is celebrated with the fall of autumn either in the
month of September or October.
Durga Puja Fast
People also observe fast during the puja as part of the
rituals. The custom of fasting during Durga puja has been followed for
centuries with complete sincerity and devotion. There are many devotees who
fast during 'Navaratri' (9 days) every year. The fast is observed to please
Goddess Durga and to seek her blessings.
Durga Puja - Story & Legends
Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma decided to create a
powerful force to destroy the invincible Mahishasura, as they were unable to
vanquish him themselves.
The
unified powers of all the Gods resulted in the creation of a fiery mass from
which, a magnificent Goddess was born. With the light of Lord Shiva, her face
was created, Lord Vishnu gave her his arms, and Lord Brahma provided her legs.
She was blessed with all the powers given to her by the Gods. She also acquired
her weaponry from the Devas. She was decked with jewelery, a sari and garlands.
Maa Durga was also given a lion by Lord 'Himalaya', the God of the Mountains.
This Goddess came to be known as 'Mahadevi' (Goddess Durga), the most powerful
and invincible of them all.
Mahishasura', was a demon who unleashed evil and terror all over the world. He could not be killed by Lord Shiva, Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu. This was because of a boon granted by God Brahma to Mahishasura according to which he would not be destroyed by any deity or man. With the combined forces of all the Gods, Mahadevi was created who was neither goddess nor human. After 9 days of continuous battle the demon was finally beaten. Thus, Mahadevi also came to be known as 'Mahishasura Mardhini' - the slayer of Mahishasura.
Lord Rama :
The significance of Durga Pooja has also been inscribed in the great Hindu epic ‘Ramayana. It has been said that the Lord Ram before going on a war with the ten headed demon ‘Ravana’ did "chandi-puja and invoked the blessings of Durga so that he could become invincible. Durga, the Goddess of power then divulged the secret to Ram how he could kill Ravana.
Nine Forms Of Maa Durga
Durga Mata is the incarnation of the Divine Mother of the
universe. She is the eternal warrior figure, born to destroy the demon,
Mahisasura who unleashed his terror upon the world. 'Maa Durga' is the
embodiment of feminine power. She is also referred to as the eternal
'Shakti'. 'Durga Maa' is popularly worshipped during 'Navaratri' and Durga
Puja. It is believed, worshipping Durga, protects the devotees from all
miseries and evils.
Durga Puja
Durga
Puja or Sharadotsav is an Hindu festival that celebrates worship
of the Hindu goddess Durga. It refers to all the six days
observed as Mahalaya, Shashthi, Maha Saptami, Maha
Ashtami, Maha Navami and Vijayadashami.
The dates of Durga
Puja celebrations are set according to the traditional Hindu
calendar.Durga Puja festival marks the victory of Goddess Durga over the evil
buffalo demon Mahishasura. Thus, Durga Puja festival epitomises the victory of
Good over Evil. It is extensively celebrated in the Northern and Eastern
states of the country, especially in West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Orissa, and
Tripura. In Bengal, the Durga Puja is celebrated with great pomp and show. The
grandeur of the Puja turns Kolkata into a new city during the last four days of
the festival beginning from Maha-Shashti (the sixth day) till the day when the
idols are immersed in the rivers, lakes, and seas on the evening of
Dashami.
Sri Krishna Janmashtami Celebrations
Janmashtami is the joyful celebration of Lord Krishna's birth. Major celebrations of Krishna Janmashtami takes place at midnight as Krishna is said to have made his divine appearance in that hour. Fasting, bhajans, pujas and many other rituals mark Janmashtami celebrations in India.
Ten Days Of Onam
The festival of Onam continues for a period of
ten days in Kerala.Which start from the Attam nakshatram of Chingam (the first
Malayalam month) last until Thiruvonam, the tenth day of Onam. In
kerala Avittam and Chatayam (the days following Thiruvonam) are also
considered important.
Onam Celebrations
There are several activities that take place all over the
state of Kerala during the ten days of Onam. Attam marks the beginning of
Onam. From the very first day, people put pookkalam (floral rangoli) at their
entranceway, using a number of flowers.
It is a tradition and a part of the celebrations of Onam
festival.In Some areas pookkalam competitions are held. Special
prayers in the local temples are also said on the first day,
Atham. Kaikotti kali (also known as Thiruvathira kali) is the main dance
of Onam. This is the traditional dance, truly native to Kerala. Kaikotti kali
is performed by middle-aged women, who stand around deepam (traditional Kerala
deep). The women are clad in set saree (traditional Kerala dress) and
accessorized with gold jewelry. Eight to twelve women can perform the dance.
Another dance form that is performed during the season is known as 'Pulikali'
or 'Kaduvakali'.
The outdoor games such as 'Talappanthukali' (ball game), 'Kayyankali' (one-to-one fight between men, without using weapon), 'Attakalam' (fight between men, played in groups) Ambeyyal (Archery) and 'Kutu Kutu' (Kabaddi) are the popular Onam games, played with great enthusiasm and high level of energy, during the festive season of Onam.Vallamkali or the popular snake boat race is a sporting event, organized at several parts of the state on uthratadhi nakshatram of Chingam (Malayalam month).Onam calls for shopping of clothes and furbishes for the home. It is a part of the tradition of Onam, to wear new clothes and buy attire for the family and friends. Apart from clothing, people enjoy shopping for new furniture.
Ayyapaa Swamy Gayatri Mantra
Om Bootha Nathaya Vidhmahe
Bava Nandhanaya Dheemahe
Tanno Sastha Prachodayaath
Ayyappa Swamy Ashtottaranamavali
108 Names Lord Ayyappa Swamy :
Om Mahasasre namaha
Om Mahadevaya namaha
Om Mahadeva sutaya namaha
Om Avyaya namaha
Om Lokakarte namaha
Om Lokabharte namaha
Om Paraatparaya namaha
Om Triloka rakshakaya namaha
Om Dhanwine namaha
Om Tapaswine namaha
Om Bhootasaivikaya namaha
Om Mantravedine namaha
Om Marutaya namaha
Om Jagadeeswaraya namaha
Om Lokadakshya namaha
Om Agraganye namaha
Om Srimatai namaha
Om Aprameya parakramaya namaha
Om Simharoodaya namaha
Om Gajaroodaya namaha
Om Hayaaroodaya namaha
Om Maheswaraya namaha
Om Nanasastradharaya namaha
Om Anrgharaya namaha
Om Nanavidyavisaradaya namaha
Om Nanaroopa dharaya namaha
Om Veera namaha
Om Nanaprani nishevakaya namaha
Om Bhhotesaya namaha
Om Bhootidaya namaha
Om Brutya namaha
Om Bhujangabharanojwalaya namaha
Om Ikshudhanwine namaha
Om Pushabhanaya namaha
Om Maharoopaya namaha
Om Mahaprabhuvaye namaha
Om Maayadevi sutaya namaha
Om Manyaya namaha
Om Mahaneetaya namaha
Om Mahagunaya namaha
Om Mahasaivaya namaha
Om Maharudraya namaha
Om Vishnavaya namaha
Om Vishnupoojakaya namaha
Om Vigneswasi namaha
Om Veerabhadresaya namaha
Om Veerabhadrasaya namaha
Om Bhairavaya namaha
Om Shanmukhadruvaya namaha
Om Meerusrunga samaseenaya namaha
Om Munisangha nishevitaya namaha
Om Devaya namaha
Om Bhadraya namaha
Om Jagannadhaya namaha
Om Gananadaya namaha
Om Ganeswaraya namaha
Om Mahayogine namaha
Om Mahamayane namaha
Om Mahastiraya namaha
Om Devasastre namaha
Om Bhootasastre namaha
Om Bheemashaya parakramaya namaha
Om Nagaharaya namaha
Om Nagakesaya namaha
Om Vyomakesaya namaha
Om Sanatayana namaha
Om Sugunaya namaha
Om Nirgunaya namaha
Om Nityaya namaha
Om Nityatruptaya namaha
Om Nirastrayaya namaha
Om Lokasrayaya namaha
Om Ganadheesaya namaha
Om Chatustrusti kalamayaya namaha
Om Rugyajussamadharvana namaha
Om Roopanai namaha
Om Mallikasura Banjakaya namaha
Om Trimoortaye namaha
Om Daityamadhanaya namaha
Om Prakrukataye namaha
Om Purushottamaya namaha
Om Kalagyanine namaha
Om Kamadaya namaha
Om Kamaleshanaya namaha
Om Kamaleshanaya namaha
Om Kalpavruskya namaha
Om Mahavrushkaya namaha
Om Vidyavrukshaya namaha
Om Vibhootidaya namaha
Om Samsaratapa vitchhetrye namaha
Om Pasuloka bayamkaraya namaha
Om Rohahantre namaha
Om Pranadatre namaha
Om Paragava vibhujanaya namaha
Om Sarvasastradhatatwagyanaya namaha
Om Neetimate namaha
Om Papabhanjanaha namaha
Om Pushalaoornasamyuktaya namaha
Om Parmatmane namaha
Om Satangaye namaha
Om Anantadityasamkasaya namaha
Om Subramanyanyujaya namaha
Om Bhaline namaha
Om Bhaktanu kampine namaha
Om Devasaya namaha
Om Bhaghavate namaha
Om Bhaktavastalaya namaha
Onam - Legends & History
There are three stories for celebrating onam One of them is
King Mahabali. Let us have brief Importance on this Legends :
King Mahabali
Mahabali(Grand son of Prahlada was the ruler of Kerala. His
people were happy to have him as the king and there was no sorrow, poverty,
disease or premature death in his kingdom. Afraid of his rising popularity, the
ever-jealous gods approached Lord Vishnu, with a request to put an end to his
rule. Counting on his charitable nature, Vishnu disguised himself as a Brahmin
dwarf called 'Vamana' and sought three steps of land from Mahabali. However,
Vishnu then increased his size to cosmic proportions and covered the entire
earth in one step and the entire heaven in the second. When he asked Mahabali,
where to place his third step, he humbly offered his head to the divine deity.
Pleased with his virtues, Vishnu made him the king of hell and granted a boon
to him that he could visit his kingdom once a year. Thus, Onam is celebrated to
welcome the legendary king returning annually to his earthly abode and kingdom.
Boat Palliodam
Once when some men were sailing on a boat called 'Palliodam', which was laden with food, it got stuck in the narrow turning of the river. The head oarsmen called Bhattathiripad set out to seek help from the hut near the river. However, when he reached there, he found a poor widow and her children weeping because of hunger and poverty. The kind-hearted man took some food from his boat and gave it to them. As soon as it was done, the boat could be easily maneuvered to the main course of river again. Since that day, it has become a tradition to feed a poor person at least on the day of Onam.
Vanishing Boy
Once upon a time, the head of Katoor Mana, the Nambuditi Brahmin family, was bathing on the near Aranmulla in river Pampa. After offering prayers to the Gods, he was waiting for a poor man to feed, to complete his religious duties. While waiting, he started praying to Lord Krishna. After some time, he saw a poor boy in rags standing before him. The Brahmin lovingly gave him a bath, dressed him and fed him well. However, it is said that the boy disappeared after eating and could be found nowhere. He spotted the boy near the Aranmulla Temple, just to lose him again. Brahmin concluded the boy to be the God himself and since then, Nambudiri Brahmins offer food to the deity in Aranmulla Temple on Onam, every year.
Boat Palliodam
Once when some men were sailing on a boat called 'Palliodam', which was laden with food, it got stuck in the narrow turning of the river. The head oarsmen called Bhattathiripad set out to seek help from the hut near the river. However, when he reached there, he found a poor widow and her children weeping because of hunger and poverty. The kind-hearted man took some food from his boat and gave it to them. As soon as it was done, the boat could be easily maneuvered to the main course of river again. Since that day, it has become a tradition to feed a poor person at least on the day of Onam.
Vanishing Boy
Once upon a time, the head of Katoor Mana, the Nambuditi Brahmin family, was bathing on the near Aranmulla in river Pampa. After offering prayers to the Gods, he was waiting for a poor man to feed, to complete his religious duties. While waiting, he started praying to Lord Krishna. After some time, he saw a poor boy in rags standing before him. The Brahmin lovingly gave him a bath, dressed him and fed him well. However, it is said that the boy disappeared after eating and could be found nowhere. He spotted the boy near the Aranmulla Temple, just to lose him again. Brahmin concluded the boy to be the God himself and since then, Nambudiri Brahmins offer food to the deity in Aranmulla Temple on Onam, every year.
History :
The oldest one available was from the temple 'Thiruvattuvai' of Thiruvalla. It relates to the period of 861 AD and elaborates on the routine practices followed there during Onam. Another one available relates to Thrikkakara Temple, of the period 1025 AD.
Lord Ganesha - 32 Forms
There are 32 forms of Lord Ganpathi which are
recognised in scriptures
1. Bala Ganapati
Bala Ganapati is “the childlike” God of golden hue. In his hands he holds a banana, mango, sugar cane and jackfruit, all representing the Earth’s abundance and fertility. His trunk garners his favorite sweet, the modaka.
Bala Ganapati is “the childlike” God of golden hue. In his hands he holds a banana, mango, sugar cane and jackfruit, all representing the Earth’s abundance and fertility. His trunk garners his favorite sweet, the modaka.
2. Taruna Ganapati
Eight-armed, Taruna Ganapati, “the youthful,” holds a noose and goad, modaka,wood apple, rose apple, his broken tusk, a sprig of paddy and a sugarcane stalk. His brilliant red color reflects the blossoming of youth.
Eight-armed, Taruna Ganapati, “the youthful,” holds a noose and goad, modaka,wood apple, rose apple, his broken tusk, a sprig of paddy and a sugarcane stalk. His brilliant red color reflects the blossoming of youth.
3. Bhakti Ganapati
Shining like the full moon during harvest season and garlanded with flowers, Bhakti Ganapati, dear to devotees, is indeed pleasant to look upon. He holds a banana, a mango, coconut and a bowl of sweet payasa pudding.
Shining like the full moon during harvest season and garlanded with flowers, Bhakti Ganapati, dear to devotees, is indeed pleasant to look upon. He holds a banana, a mango, coconut and a bowl of sweet payasa pudding.
4. Vira Ganapati
The valiant warrior, Vira Ganapati, assumes a commanding pose. His 16 arms bristle with weapons, symbols of mind powers: a goad, discus, bow, arrow, sword, shield, spear, mace, a battleaxe, a trident and more.
The valiant warrior, Vira Ganapati, assumes a commanding pose. His 16 arms bristle with weapons, symbols of mind powers: a goad, discus, bow, arrow, sword, shield, spear, mace, a battleaxe, a trident and more.
5. Shakti Ganapati
Four-armed and seated with one of his shaktis on his knee, Shakti Ganapati, “the powerful," of orange-red hue, guards the householder. He holds a garland, noose and goad, and bestows blessings with the abhaya mudra.
Four-armed and seated with one of his shaktis on his knee, Shakti Ganapati, “the powerful," of orange-red hue, guards the householder. He holds a garland, noose and goad, and bestows blessings with the abhaya mudra.
6. Dvija Ganapati
Four-headed Dvija Ganapati, “the twice-born,” is moon-like in colour. Holding a noose, a goad, an ola leaf scripture, a staff, water vessel and a his japa beads, he reminds one and all of the urgency for disciplined striving.
Four-headed Dvija Ganapati, “the twice-born,” is moon-like in colour. Holding a noose, a goad, an ola leaf scripture, a staff, water vessel and a his japa beads, he reminds one and all of the urgency for disciplined striving.
7. Siddhi Ganapati
Golden-yellow Siddhi Ganapati, “the accomplished,” is the epitome of achievement and self-mastery. He sits comfortably holding a bouquet of flowers, an axe, mango, sugarcane and, in his trunk, a tasty sesame sweet.
Golden-yellow Siddhi Ganapati, “the accomplished,” is the epitome of achievement and self-mastery. He sits comfortably holding a bouquet of flowers, an axe, mango, sugarcane and, in his trunk, a tasty sesame sweet.
8. Ucchhishta Ganapati
Ucchhishta Ganapati is “lord of blessed offerings” and guardian of culture. Of blue complexion and six-armed, he sits with his Shakti, holding a vina, pomegranate, blue lotus flower, japa mala and a sprig of fresh paddy.
Ucchhishta Ganapati is “lord of blessed offerings” and guardian of culture. Of blue complexion and six-armed, he sits with his Shakti, holding a vina, pomegranate, blue lotus flower, japa mala and a sprig of fresh paddy.
9. Vighna Ganapati
Vighna Ganapati, “lord of obstacles,” is of brilliant gold hue and bedecked in jewels. His eight arms hold a noose and goad, tusk and modaka, conch and discus, a bouquet of flowers, sugarcane, flower arrow and an axe.
Vighna Ganapati, “lord of obstacles,” is of brilliant gold hue and bedecked in jewels. His eight arms hold a noose and goad, tusk and modaka, conch and discus, a bouquet of flowers, sugarcane, flower arrow and an axe.
10. Kshipra Ganapati
Handsome, red-hued Kshipra Ganapati, “quick-acting” giver of boons, displays his broken tusk, a noose, goad and a sprig of the kalpavriksha (wish-fulfilling) tree. In his uplifted trunk he holds a tiny pot of precious jewels.
Handsome, red-hued Kshipra Ganapati, “quick-acting” giver of boons, displays his broken tusk, a noose, goad and a sprig of the kalpavriksha (wish-fulfilling) tree. In his uplifted trunk he holds a tiny pot of precious jewels.
11. Heramba Ganapati
Five-faced, white in color, Heramba Ganapati, “protector of the weak,” rides a big lion. He extends the gestures of protection and blessing while holding a noose, japa beads, axe, hammer, tusk, garland, fruit and modaka.
Five-faced, white in color, Heramba Ganapati, “protector of the weak,” rides a big lion. He extends the gestures of protection and blessing while holding a noose, japa beads, axe, hammer, tusk, garland, fruit and modaka.
12. Lakshmi Ganapati
Lakshmi Ganapati, pure white giver of success, sits flanked by wisdom and achievement. Gesturing varada mudra, he holds a green parrot, a pomegranate, sword, goad, noose, sprig of kalpavriksha and a water vessel.
Lakshmi Ganapati, pure white giver of success, sits flanked by wisdom and achievement. Gesturing varada mudra, he holds a green parrot, a pomegranate, sword, goad, noose, sprig of kalpavriksha and a water vessel.
13. Maha Ganapati
Accompanied by one of his shaktis, “the Great,” Maha Ganapati, is red-complexioned and three-eyed. He holds his tusk, a pomegranate, blue lily, sugar-cane bow, discus, noose, lotus, paddy sprig, mace and a pot of gems.
Accompanied by one of his shaktis, “the Great,” Maha Ganapati, is red-complexioned and three-eyed. He holds his tusk, a pomegranate, blue lily, sugar-cane bow, discus, noose, lotus, paddy sprig, mace and a pot of gems.
14. Vijaya Ganapati
Four-armed, of red hue and riding his resourceful mushika, Vijaya Ganapati is “the victorious” bestower of success. His insignia are the broken tusk, elephant goad, a noose and a lucious golden mango, his favorite fruit.
Four-armed, of red hue and riding his resourceful mushika, Vijaya Ganapati is “the victorious” bestower of success. His insignia are the broken tusk, elephant goad, a noose and a lucious golden mango, his favorite fruit.
15. Nritya Ganapati
The "happy Dancer,” Nritya Ganapati, is four-armed and golden, with rings on his fingers, holding a tusk, goad, noose and modaka sweet. He prances under thekalpavriksha tree, epitomizing exuberant activity and joy.
The "happy Dancer,” Nritya Ganapati, is four-armed and golden, with rings on his fingers, holding a tusk, goad, noose and modaka sweet. He prances under thekalpavriksha tree, epitomizing exuberant activity and joy.
16. Urdhva Ganapati
Seated with one of his shaktis on his left knee, Urdhva Ganapati is “the elevated” Lord of golden hue. In his six hands he holds a sprig of paddy, a lotus, the sugarcane bow, an arrow, his ivory tusk and a blue water lily.
Seated with one of his shaktis on his left knee, Urdhva Ganapati is “the elevated” Lord of golden hue. In his six hands he holds a sprig of paddy, a lotus, the sugarcane bow, an arrow, his ivory tusk and a blue water lily.
17. Ekakshara Ganapati
Ekakshara, of “single-syllable” (gam), is three-eyed, of red complexion and attire. Crescent moon on his crown, he sits in lotus pose upon Mushika, offers the boon-giving gesture and holds a pomegranate, noose and goad.
Ekakshara, of “single-syllable” (gam), is three-eyed, of red complexion and attire. Crescent moon on his crown, he sits in lotus pose upon Mushika, offers the boon-giving gesture and holds a pomegranate, noose and goad.
18. Varada Ganapati
Varada Ganapati, “the boon-giver," with prominent third eye of wisdom, holds a dish of honey, the noose and goad and encloses a pot of jewels in his trunk. His shakti is at his side, and the crescent moon adorns his crown.
Varada Ganapati, “the boon-giver," with prominent third eye of wisdom, holds a dish of honey, the noose and goad and encloses a pot of jewels in his trunk. His shakti is at his side, and the crescent moon adorns his crown.
19. Tryakshara Ganapati
Tryakshara Ganapati, “the lord of three letters” (A-U-M), is gold in colour and has fly whisks in his big floppy ears. He carries the broken tusk, goad, noose and mango and is often seen grasping a sweet modaka in his trunk.
Tryakshara Ganapati, “the lord of three letters” (A-U-M), is gold in colour and has fly whisks in his big floppy ears. He carries the broken tusk, goad, noose and mango and is often seen grasping a sweet modaka in his trunk.
20. Kshipra Prasada
Ganapati
Kshipra Prasada Ganapati, “the quick rewarder,” presides from a kusha-grass throne. His big belly symbolizes the manifest universe. He holds a noose, goad, tusk, lotus, pomegranate and a twig of the wish-fulfilling tree.
Kshipra Prasada Ganapati, “the quick rewarder,” presides from a kusha-grass throne. His big belly symbolizes the manifest universe. He holds a noose, goad, tusk, lotus, pomegranate and a twig of the wish-fulfilling tree.
21. Haridra Ganapati
Haridra Ganapati, the golden one dressed in bright yellow vestments, sits calmly on a posh, regal throne. Along with his tusk and a modaka, he wields a noose to hold devotees close and a sharp goad to spur them onward.
Haridra Ganapati, the golden one dressed in bright yellow vestments, sits calmly on a posh, regal throne. Along with his tusk and a modaka, he wields a noose to hold devotees close and a sharp goad to spur them onward.
22. Ekadanta Ganapati
Ekadanta, of “single tusk,” is distinguished by his blue color and sizeable belly. The attributes of this murti are an axe for cutting the bonds of ignorance, prayer beads for japa, a laddu sweet and the broken right tusk.
Ekadanta, of “single tusk,” is distinguished by his blue color and sizeable belly. The attributes of this murti are an axe for cutting the bonds of ignorance, prayer beads for japa, a laddu sweet and the broken right tusk.
23. Srishti Ganapati
Riding on his docile and friendly mouse, Srishti Ganapati is the lord of happy “manifestation.” This active God, of red complexion, holds his noose a goad, a perfect mango, and his tusk, representing selfless sacrifice.
Riding on his docile and friendly mouse, Srishti Ganapati is the lord of happy “manifestation.” This active God, of red complexion, holds his noose a goad, a perfect mango, and his tusk, representing selfless sacrifice.
24. Uddanda Ganapati
Uddanda Ganapati is the bold “enforcer of dharma,” the laws of being. His ten hands hold a pot of gems, a blue lily, sugar cane, a mace, lotus flower, sprig of paddy, a pomegranate, noose, garland and his broken tusk.
Uddanda Ganapati is the bold “enforcer of dharma,” the laws of being. His ten hands hold a pot of gems, a blue lily, sugar cane, a mace, lotus flower, sprig of paddy, a pomegranate, noose, garland and his broken tusk.
25. Rinamochana Ganapati
Rinamochana Ganapati is humanity’s liberator from guilt and bondage. His figure of alabaster skin is apparelled in red silks. He bears a noose and a goad, his milk-white tusk and a favorite fruit, the rose apple.
Rinamochana Ganapati is humanity’s liberator from guilt and bondage. His figure of alabaster skin is apparelled in red silks. He bears a noose and a goad, his milk-white tusk and a favorite fruit, the rose apple.
26. Dhundhi Ganapati
Red-hued Dhundhi Ganapati, “the sought after,” holds a strand of rudraksha beads, His broken tusk, an axe and a small pot of precious gems thought to represent the treasury of awakenings that he he saves for all ardent devotees.
Red-hued Dhundhi Ganapati, “the sought after,” holds a strand of rudraksha beads, His broken tusk, an axe and a small pot of precious gems thought to represent the treasury of awakenings that he he saves for all ardent devotees.
27. Dvimukha Ganapati
Dvimukha Ganapati, called Janus by the Romans, with two divergent faces, sees in all directions. His blue-green form is dressed in red silk. He wears a bejewelled crown and holds a noose, goad, his tusk and a pot of gems.
Dvimukha Ganapati, called Janus by the Romans, with two divergent faces, sees in all directions. His blue-green form is dressed in red silk. He wears a bejewelled crown and holds a noose, goad, his tusk and a pot of gems.
28. Trimukha Ganapati
Trimukha Ganapati, the contemplative “three-faced” Lord of red hue, sits on a golden lotus, telling his beads, holding a noose, goad and vessel of nectar. He gestures protection with a right hand and blessings with a left.
Trimukha Ganapati, the contemplative “three-faced” Lord of red hue, sits on a golden lotus, telling his beads, holding a noose, goad and vessel of nectar. He gestures protection with a right hand and blessings with a left.
29. Sinha Ganapati
Sinha Ganapati, white in color, rides a lion and displays another lion in one hand, symbolizing strength and fearlessness. He also holds a kalpavriksha sprig, the vina, a lotus blossom, flower bouquet and a pot of jewels.
Sinha Ganapati, white in color, rides a lion and displays another lion in one hand, symbolizing strength and fearlessness. He also holds a kalpavriksha sprig, the vina, a lotus blossom, flower bouquet and a pot of jewels.
30. Yoga Ganapati
Yoga Ganapati is absorbed in mantra japa, his knees strapped in meditative pose, hands holding a yoga staff, sugacane stalk, a noose and prayer beads. His color is like the morning sun. Blue garments adorn his form.
Yoga Ganapati is absorbed in mantra japa, his knees strapped in meditative pose, hands holding a yoga staff, sugacane stalk, a noose and prayer beads. His color is like the morning sun. Blue garments adorn his form.
31. Durga Ganapati
Durga Ganapati, the “Invincible,” waves the flag of victory over darkness. This splendidmurti is of deep gold hue, dressed in red, holding a bow and arrow, noose and goad, prayer beads, broken tusk and a rose apple.
Durga Ganapati, the “Invincible,” waves the flag of victory over darkness. This splendidmurti is of deep gold hue, dressed in red, holding a bow and arrow, noose and goad, prayer beads, broken tusk and a rose apple.
32. Sankatahara Ganapati
Sankatahara Ganapati, “the dispeller of sorrow,” is of sunlike hue, dressed in blue, and seated on a red lotus flower. He holds a bowl of pudding, a goad and a noose while gesturing the boon-granting varada mudra.
Sankatahara Ganapati, “the dispeller of sorrow,” is of sunlike hue, dressed in blue, and seated on a red lotus flower. He holds a bowl of pudding, a goad and a noose while gesturing the boon-granting varada mudra.
Sarasbaug Ganpati
The Sarasbaug temple houses the idol
of Shree Siddhivinayak (God who makes wishes true). Millions of
Devotees from Pune and around the world visit this temple every
day.Particularly in the events of Vinayaka Chaturthi and some special
occassions this temples excepts a huge
Shirdi SaiBaba Madhyana Aarthi
Arati is held four times a day at Baba’s Samadhi For
many who come to Shirdi, attendance at arati is one of the highlights of their
visit. It is perhaps during arati that we can most easily experience the
essence of Shirdi and the power of Baba’s presence. Some people experienced a
heightened state and speak of a dissolution of the sense of separation, the
erosion of the boundary between self and God. Others say that this is the time
when Baba comes “alive” for them and answers their questions and prayers.
Valmiki Jayanti
The birthday of Valmiki is celebrated on the Full moon
day(Purnima) of Ashwin (September-October). The story of Lord Rama written
by him is called Valmiki’s Ramayana and is the first epic of Sanskrit
literature.On his birthday he is worshipped and prayed and his portraits are
taken out in gay processions through the main bazaars and streets. Kirtans are
also held in Valmiki temples.
2016 Date : 16th October, Sunday.
Lord Venkateshwara Swamy - A Brief Story
Venkateshwara is another form of Lord Vishnu who
is the most popular deity He is also known as Venkatachalapathi or
Venkataramana or Tirumal devar or Varadaraja or Srinivasa or Balaji or Bithala.
He has a dark complexion and four hands. In his two upper hands he holds a
discus (a symbol of power) and a conchs hell (a symbol of existence). With his
lower hands extended downward he asks devotees to have faith and surrender to
him for protection. The supreme temple of Venkateswara is at Tirupati and every
hindu wants to visit this temple at least once in life.