Shri Swarna Kavachalankruta Durga Devi
Showing posts with label Picture. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Picture. Show all posts
Friday, 7 January 2011
Thursday, 29 April 2010
Saturday, 12 December 2009
Mother Mary (Virgin Mary)
Mother Mary (Virgin Mary)
Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, has been accorded a special place of devotion especially in the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches. The New Testament records that she was the cousin of Elizabeth, mother of John the Baptist, and that she was betrothed and, later, married to Joseph. After giving birth to Jesus in a stable at Bethlehem, where she had gone with Joseph to register for a government census, Mary returned to Nazareth to live quietly and humbly with her family (Luke 2:1-20). At his crucifixion Jesus asked his beloved disciple, John, to look after his mother. Little is known about Mary after this, although Acts 1:14, the last reference to her in the New Testament, places her among the disciples.
The New Testament states that Mary conceived Jesus by the Holy Spirit and thus without losing her virginity (Matt. 1:18, 20; Luke 1:35). Despite biblical references to Jesus' "brothers," the idea of Mary's perpetual virginity appeared in the early church. Saint Athanasius used the term "ever virgin" to refer to Mary, and this view was apparently accepted by the Fathers of the Church from the 5th century on. It was formally established as a doctrine at the church's Lateran Council in 649. Although the Virgin Birth is a tenet of virtually all Christian churches, modern biblical criticism has questioned the authenticity of the accounts in Matthew and Luke. The doctrine of Mary's perpetual virginity is taught principally by the Roman Catholic and Orthodox churches.
Marian teachings received considerable impetus at the councils of Ephesus (431) and Chalcedon (451), both of which upheld the title theotokos ("God-bearer," or Mother of God) as descriptive of Mary. The doctrine of Mary's bodily assumption into heaven can be traced to apocryphal documents dating from the 4th century, but this doctrine was not officially formulated and defined for Roman Catholics until 1950 (see Assumption of Mary). The doctrine of Mary's Immaculate Conception was a matter of dispute throughout the Middle Ages. In 1854, however, Pope Pius IX declared that Mary was freed from original sin by a special act of grace the moment she was conceived in the womb of Saint Anne. (Tradition names Saint Anne and Saint Joachim as Mary's parents.)
Pope Pius XII strongly promoted Marian piety during his reign (1939-58). Because Roman Catholic teaching holds that Mary is deserving of the "highest veneration," the church observes 17 Marian festivals each year, 5 of which are major: Immaculate Conception, Dec. 8; Purification, Feb. 2; Annunciation, Mar. 25; Assumption, Aug. 15; and Birth, Sept. 8. The Rosary contains 50 Ave Marias ("hail Marys"), and devotion to the "immaculate heart" of Mary is popular in some circles.
Protestant bodies have always reacted strongly against excessive devotion to Mary. In recent years, however, Protestant, Anglican, and Roman Catholic scholars have held discussions in which substantive agreements regarding the place of Mary in Christian theology and practice have been reached. The Second Vatican Council (1962-65) included a chapter on Mary in the Constitution of the Church that emphasizes Mary's complete dependence on her Son.
Lord kartikeya (Murgan)
Lord kartikeya (Murgan)
All famous name of Lord Kartikeya : Palani, Subaramani, Kumaran, Thandabani, Murgan
Lord Kartikeya was the trice child of Lord Shiva, and also idol of Goddess Parvati it is also called by another name Subramaniam, Skanda, Guha, Shadannana or Sanmukha (since it has six face). He was represent a human being of excellence. God kartikeya was present in battle of God, the Hindu correspondent of Mar and Ares. Lord kartikeya was twisted by every one the god to direct the delightful hosts and was demolish the demon. Hindu god Kartikeya was mainly male and violent of all the god. It was a flames, Agni and was especially Pitta in environment. Although Ganesh remove every obstacle, Skanda has all the divine control, mostly there was a control of information.
All famous name of Lord Kartikeya : Palani, Subaramani, Kumaran, Thandabani, Murgan
Friday, 11 December 2009
Jalaram Bapa
Jalaram Bapa
History of Jalaram Bapa
History of Jalaram Bapa
Shree Jalaram Bapa was born in Samvant 1856 (A.D. 1800). His mother's name was Rajbai and father's name was Pradhan Thakkar. Pradhan Thakkar and Valji Thakkar were two brothers actively and honestly engaged in business earning their livelihood.
It is said that Rajbai, wife of Pradhan Thakkar was religous lady who was very inclined to serve sadhus' and sants'. A mother of three sons and three daughter's, she was content in her family life and used to find free time to do her religous duties to sadhus' and sants'. She was once a host to Sant Raghuveerdasji who was very impressed with her selfless services and had blessed her - his blessings were that her second son would be instrumental in enhancing the services that she was doing - he would be famous all over in advocating pious life, duty full of devotion and act of good deeds. This second son was none other than our Shree Jalaram Bapa.
There was a remarkable incident in early life of this saint person : when he was a child, a saint came to the house and requested to see Jalram; when they came face to face with each other - Jalaram at once greeted the saint with respectful "Namaskar" and it appeared that Jalaram had recollected his previous life, he realised who he was, he was reminded of his goal in life - it is argued that this visiting saint was probably a heavenly messenger - from that day onwards the young Jalaram never stopped chanting "Sita Ram" and he began to live life in a different way.
At a young age of 14 Jalaram's marraige was arranged with Virbai, a daughter of Thakkar Pragji Somaija. Jalaram was not in favour of marraige, but his duties towards his parents forced him to accept this arranged marraige. He got married when he was 16 years of age.
Jalaram's love towards sadhus' and sants' grew day by day and he would go to any extent to entertain sadhus and sants. This was not acceptable to his father. Jalaram's deep involvement with sadhus' and sants' led to his seperation from his father's business. He had decided to go his way. He worked for his uncle for some time. Uncle Valjibhai was very fond of Jalaram, but even that love and fondness would not deter Jalaram's desire to serve sadhus' and sants'. If at all anything it made more determined to devote himself fully to the service of sadhus' and sants' and the needy. He was fully aware that such devotion would mean complete withdrawal from marital life, a life free from family ties and circles. His inclination was to go on that path faster and with approval of his parents and uncle Valjibhai, he set out on a holy pilgrimage of holy places. He was fortunate that Virbaima was keen to follow her husband Jalaram. To her, Jalaram's work was her work, Jalaram's wishes were her wishes and all that Jalaram decided to do she was but prepared to do that. She was following Jalaram in every respect.
At the age of 18 he accepted Bhojalram as his Guru and with Gurus' blessings, he started "Sadavrat" a feeding centre, a place where all sadhus' and sants' and the needy can go and expect to be fed 24 hours a day. Both Jalaram Bapa and Virbaima started working for this holy place. Jalaram's strong belief was that "This was the Lord's order - This was Lord's work - I am not doing anything for anybody - Lord has asked me to do this work - since it is Lord's work HE looks after it and ensures that it functions". Actually that did happen - indeed the place functioned well. Nobody ever returned from that place without being fed. One can question whether this can possibly be done by a single person - Yes. We argue and debate and yet probably would not come to a sensible answer - but then to do what Jalaram did one has to be a person of Jalaram's determination, his patience, his love towards others.
He was 20 years when his saintliness acquired a great fame. There are stories of how he was put to tests for his qualities of patience, endurence, love towards others, his steadfastness of thinking - he did not change under any pressure - he came out of all those tests successfully. His fame spread and he was regarded and accepted as a saint. People started worshipping him. They came to him for guidance in difficulties, for blessings in real distress and discomfort. It is said that once he was called out to see an ailing child struct with serious disease. Parents of this child believed that the cure was solely due to Jalaram Bapa's blessings - Jala was since called Allah. In another instance a person who was threatened to be imprisoned went to Jalaram for his blessings. This man was not only saved from such imprisonment but he decided to lead a normal honest life then onwards. Jalaram was then onwards addressed as Bapa - Father of all. There are numerous such instances that can be quoted from his books but fact is that his feeding place was open and is still open today in Virpur where people go and are fed. People go to Jalaram Bapa's places for prayers to him and seek his blessings for their personal griefs, shortcomings and failures and many acquire relief and satisfaction.
Human beings during their span of life always aspire to be rich and acquire wealth - they pray for complete family life - it is such saint as Jalaram Bapa who remain away from such desire and wants. In their lives they always give - even when they are gone they still give to those who ask from them with purity of heart and sincerity of purpose.
In 1934 during terrible famine Jalaram Bapa worked very hard to feed those who were suffering. In 1935 Virbaima died and 1937 Jalaram Bapa died while in prayers.
Such is the story of the life of this Great Saint of Virpur.
Aarti virtual pooja
Bapano Danko
It is said that Rajbai, wife of Pradhan Thakkar was religous lady who was very inclined to serve sadhus' and sants'. A mother of three sons and three daughter's, she was content in her family life and used to find free time to do her religous duties to sadhus' and sants'. She was once a host to Sant Raghuveerdasji who was very impressed with her selfless services and had blessed her - his blessings were that her second son would be instrumental in enhancing the services that she was doing - he would be famous all over in advocating pious life, duty full of devotion and act of good deeds. This second son was none other than our Shree Jalaram Bapa.
There was a remarkable incident in early life of this saint person : when he was a child, a saint came to the house and requested to see Jalram; when they came face to face with each other - Jalaram at once greeted the saint with respectful "Namaskar" and it appeared that Jalaram had recollected his previous life, he realised who he was, he was reminded of his goal in life - it is argued that this visiting saint was probably a heavenly messenger - from that day onwards the young Jalaram never stopped chanting "Sita Ram" and he began to live life in a different way.
At a young age of 14 Jalaram's marraige was arranged with Virbai, a daughter of Thakkar Pragji Somaija. Jalaram was not in favour of marraige, but his duties towards his parents forced him to accept this arranged marraige. He got married when he was 16 years of age.
Jalaram's love towards sadhus' and sants' grew day by day and he would go to any extent to entertain sadhus and sants. This was not acceptable to his father. Jalaram's deep involvement with sadhus' and sants' led to his seperation from his father's business. He had decided to go his way. He worked for his uncle for some time. Uncle Valjibhai was very fond of Jalaram, but even that love and fondness would not deter Jalaram's desire to serve sadhus' and sants'. If at all anything it made more determined to devote himself fully to the service of sadhus' and sants' and the needy. He was fully aware that such devotion would mean complete withdrawal from marital life, a life free from family ties and circles. His inclination was to go on that path faster and with approval of his parents and uncle Valjibhai, he set out on a holy pilgrimage of holy places. He was fortunate that Virbaima was keen to follow her husband Jalaram. To her, Jalaram's work was her work, Jalaram's wishes were her wishes and all that Jalaram decided to do she was but prepared to do that. She was following Jalaram in every respect.
At the age of 18 he accepted Bhojalram as his Guru and with Gurus' blessings, he started "Sadavrat" a feeding centre, a place where all sadhus' and sants' and the needy can go and expect to be fed 24 hours a day. Both Jalaram Bapa and Virbaima started working for this holy place. Jalaram's strong belief was that "This was the Lord's order - This was Lord's work - I am not doing anything for anybody - Lord has asked me to do this work - since it is Lord's work HE looks after it and ensures that it functions". Actually that did happen - indeed the place functioned well. Nobody ever returned from that place without being fed. One can question whether this can possibly be done by a single person - Yes. We argue and debate and yet probably would not come to a sensible answer - but then to do what Jalaram did one has to be a person of Jalaram's determination, his patience, his love towards others.
He was 20 years when his saintliness acquired a great fame. There are stories of how he was put to tests for his qualities of patience, endurence, love towards others, his steadfastness of thinking - he did not change under any pressure - he came out of all those tests successfully. His fame spread and he was regarded and accepted as a saint. People started worshipping him. They came to him for guidance in difficulties, for blessings in real distress and discomfort. It is said that once he was called out to see an ailing child struct with serious disease. Parents of this child believed that the cure was solely due to Jalaram Bapa's blessings - Jala was since called Allah. In another instance a person who was threatened to be imprisoned went to Jalaram for his blessings. This man was not only saved from such imprisonment but he decided to lead a normal honest life then onwards. Jalaram was then onwards addressed as Bapa - Father of all. There are numerous such instances that can be quoted from his books but fact is that his feeding place was open and is still open today in Virpur where people go and are fed. People go to Jalaram Bapa's places for prayers to him and seek his blessings for their personal griefs, shortcomings and failures and many acquire relief and satisfaction.
Human beings during their span of life always aspire to be rich and acquire wealth - they pray for complete family life - it is such saint as Jalaram Bapa who remain away from such desire and wants. In their lives they always give - even when they are gone they still give to those who ask from them with purity of heart and sincerity of purpose.
In 1934 during terrible famine Jalaram Bapa worked very hard to feed those who were suffering. In 1935 Virbaima died and 1937 Jalaram Bapa died while in prayers.
Such is the story of the life of this Great Saint of Virpur.
Aarti virtual pooja
Bapano Danko
Thursday, 3 December 2009
Wednesday, 2 December 2009
Karni Mata
Karni Mata
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Karni Mata Temple is a popular and unusual holy shrine of India. This Temple is in a small town of Deshnok, which is located at a distance of 30 kms in south of Bikaner in Rajasthan. Karni Mata Mandir is easily accessible by regular buses from Bikaner and Jodhpur. To ensure a comfortable journey, one can also opt for taxis that can be availed from anywhere in Rajasthan. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Karni, who is regarded as the incarnation of Maa Durga.
In the 14th century, Goddess Karni is said to have lived and performed many miracles during her existence. Karni Mata was a mystic, who led a virtuous life committed to the service of the poor and the oppressed of all communities. The goddess is said to have laid the foundation of Deshnoke. As per the stories, once when her youngest son drowned, Goddess Karni asked Yama (the god of death) to bring him back to life.
Lord Yama replied that he could not return her son's life. Thus, Karni Mata, being an incarnation of Goddess Durga, restored the life of her son. At this point of time, she announced that her family members would die no longer; in fact they would incarnate in the form of rats (kabas) and ultimately, these rats would come back as the members of her family. In Deshnok, there are around 600 families that assert to be the descendants of Karni Mata.
The present temple dates back to the 15th century, when it was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner. The striking façade of the temple is wholly built in marble. Inside the temple complex, one can see a pair of silver doors before the main shrine of the Goddess. These solid silver doors were donated by Maharaja Gaj Singh, on his visit to this temple.
In the main shrine, the image of the goddess is placed with holy things at her feet. Surrounded by rats, Karni Mata is holding a trishul (trident) in one of her hands. The image of Karni Mata is 75 cms tall, decked with a mukut (crown) and a garland of flowers. On her either side, images of her sisters are placed. Karni Mata Temple attracts numerous tourists and pilgrims throughout the year, due to its unique presiding beings.
The temple has around 20,000 rats that are fed, protected and worshipped. Many holes can be seen in the courtyard of this temple. In the vicinity of these holes, one can see rats engaged in different activities. The Rats can be seen here eating from huge metal bowls of milk, sweets and grains. To make the holy rats safe, wires and grills are sited over the courtyard to avoid the birds of prey and other animals.
It is regarded auspicious, if a rat (kaba) runs across one's feet. Even, a glimpse of kaba (white rat) is considered promising and fruitful. Twice a year, a festival is celebrated in the honor of Karni Mata. A grand fair is organized during this time and people come here to seek the blessings of the Goddess.
In the 14th century, Goddess Karni is said to have lived and performed many miracles during her existence. Karni Mata was a mystic, who led a virtuous life committed to the service of the poor and the oppressed of all communities. The goddess is said to have laid the foundation of Deshnoke. As per the stories, once when her youngest son drowned, Goddess Karni asked Yama (the god of death) to bring him back to life.
Lord Yama replied that he could not return her son's life. Thus, Karni Mata, being an incarnation of Goddess Durga, restored the life of her son. At this point of time, she announced that her family members would die no longer; in fact they would incarnate in the form of rats (kabas) and ultimately, these rats would come back as the members of her family. In Deshnok, there are around 600 families that assert to be the descendants of Karni Mata.
The present temple dates back to the 15th century, when it was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner. The striking façade of the temple is wholly built in marble. Inside the temple complex, one can see a pair of silver doors before the main shrine of the Goddess. These solid silver doors were donated by Maharaja Gaj Singh, on his visit to this temple.
In the main shrine, the image of the goddess is placed with holy things at her feet. Surrounded by rats, Karni Mata is holding a trishul (trident) in one of her hands. The image of Karni Mata is 75 cms tall, decked with a mukut (crown) and a garland of flowers. On her either side, images of her sisters are placed. Karni Mata Temple attracts numerous tourists and pilgrims throughout the year, due to its unique presiding beings.
The temple has around 20,000 rats that are fed, protected and worshipped. Many holes can be seen in the courtyard of this temple. In the vicinity of these holes, one can see rats engaged in different activities. The Rats can be seen here eating from huge metal bowls of milk, sweets and grains. To make the holy rats safe, wires and grills are sited over the courtyard to avoid the birds of prey and other animals.
It is regarded auspicious, if a rat (kaba) runs across one's feet. Even, a glimpse of kaba (white rat) is considered promising and fruitful. Twice a year, a festival is celebrated in the honor of Karni Mata. A grand fair is organized during this time and people come here to seek the blessings of the Goddess.
Karni Mata Temple
| Location: | At a distance of 30kms south of Bikaner |
| Built in: | 15th century |
| Dedicated to: | Karni Mata |
| Also known as: | Temple of Rats |
| Attraction: | Thousands of Rats are worshipped |
| How to reach: | One can easily reach Rat Temple by taking regular Buses or by hiring taxis from anywhere in Rajasthan |
Chandi Devi
Chandi Devi
Chandi Devi Temple is a renowned holy shrine of North India. Perched at the top of Neel Parvat (Hill), the temple is located at a distance of 6 kms from the main city of Haridwar. In 1929, Chandi Devi Mandir was built by Suchat Singh, the king of Kashmir. The Temple is easily accessible from the city of Haridwar by buses, auto-rickshaws, Tongas and Taxis. In order to reach the main shrine, you can opt for trekking of 3 kms and the way starts from the Chandighat. Another mode to reach the temple is cable car, which is trouble-free as well as adventurous.
The main idol of the Goddess is said to have been established by Adi Shankaracharya dating back to the 8th century. There is a legend behind the foundation of this temple. As per the legend, two demon kings, Shumbha and Nishumbha captured the kingdom of Lord Indra. Due to the reason, all the Gods were thrown out from the heaven. At that time, Chandi Devi emerged from the power of Goddess Parvati to slaughter the demon kings. The goddess is believed to have taken rest at this place for some time, since that time the place is considered sacred.
Chandi Devi Temple is known as one of the Siddha Peethas (Holy Places where one's wishes are fulfilled) together with Mansa Devi and Maya Devi of Haridwar. It is said that Goddess Chandi fulfills all the wishes of her true devotees. A temple of Anjana Devi (Mother of Lord Hanuman) is situated at a distance of 200 meters from the shrine of Chandi Devi. Chandi Devi is one of the most ancient temples of India.
In the earlier days, people used to reach the shrine by trekking through the steep path which incorporates bit difficulties. With the passage of time, a ropeway has been made for the convenience of the pilgrims. This ropeway takes around 20-25 minutes to reach the temple complex. In this manner, people can also enjoy the panoramic view of the natural beauty. Every year, this temple receives millions of people from far and near. Pilgrims come to this holy shrine to seek blessings from the Goddess.
The main idol of the Goddess is said to have been established by Adi Shankaracharya dating back to the 8th century. There is a legend behind the foundation of this temple. As per the legend, two demon kings, Shumbha and Nishumbha captured the kingdom of Lord Indra. Due to the reason, all the Gods were thrown out from the heaven. At that time, Chandi Devi emerged from the power of Goddess Parvati to slaughter the demon kings. The goddess is believed to have taken rest at this place for some time, since that time the place is considered sacred.
Chandi Devi Temple is known as one of the Siddha Peethas (Holy Places where one's wishes are fulfilled) together with Mansa Devi and Maya Devi of Haridwar. It is said that Goddess Chandi fulfills all the wishes of her true devotees. A temple of Anjana Devi (Mother of Lord Hanuman) is situated at a distance of 200 meters from the shrine of Chandi Devi. Chandi Devi is one of the most ancient temples of India.
In the earlier days, people used to reach the shrine by trekking through the steep path which incorporates bit difficulties. With the passage of time, a ropeway has been made for the convenience of the pilgrims. This ropeway takes around 20-25 minutes to reach the temple complex. In this manner, people can also enjoy the panoramic view of the natural beauty. Every year, this temple receives millions of people from far and near. Pilgrims come to this holy shrine to seek blessings from the Goddess.
Chandi Devi Temple
| Location: | At the top of Neel Parvat (Hill), Haridwar |
| Built by: | Suchat Singh |
| Built in: | 1929 A.D |
| Dedicated to: | Chandi Devi (a form of Shakti) |
| Significance: | One of the Siddha Peethas |
| How to reach: | One can easily reach Chandi Devi Temple by taking local Buses, Rickshaws, Tongas or by hiring Taxis from Haridwar |
Friday, 20 November 2009
shri Gauri
shri Gauri
Gauri signify purity and austerity. She is the Kanya who had undergone severe penance in classify to find Lord Shiva as her husband.
Sita, the wife of lord Rama, had worshipped Gauri to execute her wish to get married Lord Rama. Unmarried girls worship Gauri to complete her wish to marry lord Rama.
Along with many small rites of the wedding ceremony is the worship of Gauri by the bride and brush. After years of request to Gauri to express her “groom like Shiva,” the bride takes the groom to Gauri’s abode in her relative’s holy place to thank the spirit for answering her desire…. and to how the deity the groom.
The bride worships gauri with sinder, her groom seated behind her. At a presently instant in the marriage ceremony, the groom will place sindur. Since that moment throughout the rest of her married life.
The bride will carry the red authority in the fraction of her wedded life, the bride resolve wear the red power in the part of her hair as a sign of her position as a married woman through a living husband.
The worship of Mahagauri is suggested for the eighth day of Navaratri Puja. Her power is assured and directly fruitful.
Every one accumulate sins get cracked and in outlook no sins or suffer comes to him. He gets purify in all revere and becomes healthy for infinite virtues.
Sri Bhuvaneshwari Amman
Sri Bhuvaneshwari Amman
Sri Buvaneshwari Amman - SaranathanThe primordial energy (Sakthi) in the female form, is known by various names such as Rajarajeswari, Aadhi Parasakthi and Jagadamba. Rajarajeswari has ten different aspects such as Kali, Thara, Shodasi etc. One of these aspects is Bhuvaneswari. Bhuvanam Eswari means the ruler. She rules the universe according to Her will. In other words, the whole universe belongs to Her.
Goddess Bhuvaneswari is a symbol of beauty and grace. She is the giver of wealth, health and happiness. Prayers offered to her remove sorrows. Sins are forgiven by Her. By praying Her, birth less state and Moksha are obtained.
Bhuvaneswari always appears with a smiling face. She has 4 hands; two of which bless the devotees. She carries weapons such as Paasam Angusam (for control of anger). Her smiling face is meant to cheer-up devotees for happiness. She is always well dressed, bedecked with Jewelry and gems of various kinds. Scriptures describe Her as brighter than thousand Suns, and wearing a crescent moon on Her crown. She is worshipped by Brahma, Vishnu and Siva.
She resides at Manidweepam, which was created out of Her own thought. Manidvipam
Sri Bhuvaneswari represents knowledge and intelligence. Her Bheeja is 'Hreem'. She is also the controller of Maaya. Her powers extend throughout the universe. In human beings, she exists as Kundalini Sakthi and Sabthabrahmam. The mantra 'Hreem' is known as Sakthi Pranavam. Hreemkara finds its place in various Upanishads - such as Bhavanopanishad, Sowbhagya Lakshmi Upanishad, Sri Sooktham and other prayers. In Lalitha trisathi, Hreem is used in 29 places for glorifying Goddess Bhuvaneswari. She is variously described as the brightness of thousand suns, beauty of peacock and parrot, nectar in a flower, ruby among gems and Ganga among rivers. means the universe; (for control of desire) and consists of several forts, made of several materials - consisting of common metals on the outside, silver, gold, sapphire, Topaz, pearl, corals and emerald in the interior. The Manidweepam is guarded by eight Gods-such as Indira, Agni, Varuna, Vayu, Kubera etc. Worship of the Great Goddess bestows peace and joy upon the worshipper, and brings him or her bounteous merit. The Goddess can fulfill all our needs, and is ever ready to remedy even our greatest afflictions. Indeed, by worshipping the Goddess one can bring immeasurable benefit to one’s loved ones, as well as to oneself, even to the extent of rescuing them from various hells and carrying them thence to the paradise of Manidvipa. This was the marvelous outcome of Maharaja Janamejaya’s worship of Bhuvaneswari Devi, for, after duly adoring her in the manner prescribed for this purpose by Vyasa, his late father’s soul was released from naraka and ascended to the Goddess’s Jeweled Island. Truly, the benefits of worshipping Mother Bhuvaneswari are limitless and practically indescribable! Those who adore the Goddess with pure and selfless bhakti, discerning the truth of non-duality at all times, perceiving and serving the Goddess in all, and cherishing nothing as much as they do serving her, attain sayujya moksha, highest liberation. Let us, therefore, thank Divine Providence for the singular grace and salutary opportunity that has been afforded to us by the opening in Toronto of this auspicious new temple! And let us praise the Great Goddess with all our hearts, assuring her of our unflagging devotion, and imploring her blessings upon us and upon our loved ones!
Sri Akilandeswari Devi
Sri Akilandeswari DeviAccording to legend, there lived a saint called Jambu Rishi, who was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. He once found a very rare fruit called “Venn Naaval Pazham” (white Naaval fruit) and he offered it to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva ate the fruit and spitted out the seed of the fruit.
Out of his overwhelming Bhakthi, Jambu Rishi ate the seed, because of its sacred nature as it came out of Lord Shiva’s mouth. The seed which he ate started growing as a Naaval tree from the Rishi’s head. The Rishi prayed Lord Shiva to take abode and settle under the tree. The Lord agreed to him and said that, a time will come when I would come and settle under this Naaval Tree. This place then came to be known as Jambugeswaram.
Parvathi Devi once playfully disturbed the penance of Lord Shiva. The God got angry with her and asked her to go to earth and perform penance. Parvathi Devi came down to earth as Akilaandeswari and found this place Jambugeswaram most suitable for her prayers. She took water from river Cauvery and made a Shiva Linga out of it, erected it under the same “Venn Naaval” tree which evolved out of Jambu Maharishi’s head and started worshipping. As She made the Shiva Lingam out of water, this came to be known as Appu Lingam (Water Lingam) among Pancha Boodha Lingams.
Lord Shiva was pleased with Devi’s worship and gave Dharshan to her here. He also taught her Siva Gnana to her in this place. She faced east and took Upadesam from Lord Shiva who was facing west. Similarly, the Sri Jambugeswarar and Sri Akilaandeswari idols in this temple also face the same directions.
In Kailaash, there were 2 Siva Ganas (Shiva’s Parivaar) called Maalyavaan & Pushpadhantha, who have been very devoted Shiva Bhakthas. They had a habit of fighting with each other very often. One day out of the anger during the fight, Maalyavaan cursed Pushpadhantha to be born as an elephant and in return Pushpadhantha cursed Maalyavaan to be born as a spider on earth. Both their curses came true.
Pushpadhantha, as an elephant was wandering in Jambugeswaram. He found the Shiva Linga under the Venn Naaval tree. Out of his devotion, he went and brought water from Cauvery in his trunk and bathed the Lord, cleaned up the place and offered flowers to Lord Shiva.
Maalyavaan who was born as the Spider saw Lord Shiva at this place and weaved a web above God’s head providing Him the Shelter from the falling dry leaves and the hot sun.
Next day the elephant came and saw the web near Lord Shiva and got angry with the spider as the web is made of spider’s saliva which is believed to be unclean in the God’s premises. The elephant blew away the web woven by the spider and again cleaned the place with water and decorated with flowers.
This act continued for few days repeatedly by both of them. One day out of anger, the spider wanted to stop the elephant from spoiling his offering to God. The spider entered into the trunk of the elephant and bit it to death. The Elephant with much pain squeezed the trunk and the spider too died. After their death, they again reached Kailash, where God advised them that each one has got a form of worship and none is superior to the other. God also relieved both from their curses and blessed them.
As the elephant worshipped the God here, this place got its name as “Thiruvaanaikkaa”. (Thiru means God, Aanai means Elephant and Kaa means Forest) which later got corrupted through times as Thiruvaanaikkaaval and Thiruvaanaikkovil.
It is also believed that Maalyavaan took his next birth as a Chola King called Ko Chengannan (means King with red eyes). He was highly victorious as a king, but wanted to serve the Lord for rest of his life and has built around 70 Shiva Temples and Thiruvaanaikkaa is the first among them, built during 1st Century B.C. Ko Chengannan is also one among the 63 Nayanmars.
Out of his experience with an elephant in his earlier birth, he made the sanctum of Thiruvaanaikkaa temple with its entrance too small so that even a smallest of elephants cannot enter inside. The entrance of the sanctum measures just 4 ft height and 2.5 ft width.
All the Naalvars, Appar, Sundarar, Gnaana Sambandar and Manicka Vaasagar have sung in hymns here. Arunagirinaathar in his Thiruppugazh has sung praise on Lord Muruga here. Muthuswamy Dheekshidhar, the one among three Sangeetha Mummurthys has composed few great and rare compositions on the God and Goddess here.
Jagadguru Aadhi Sankaraachaarya has visited this temple and worshipped Goddess Akilaandeswari here. He also reduced the Ugram (fierce) of the Goddess here by offering her a pair of “Thadagams” (ear rings) made of Sri Chakra, which is not found anywhere else. Also he installed Prasanna Vinayagar in front of the Goddess’s Shrine to bring down her ferocity, so that the Goddess looks on with a graceful sight.
As Goddess Akilaandeswari worshipped Lord Shiva here, the Uchi Kaala Pooja (during noon) is performed to Lord Shiva by the priest, who dresses up himself in a Saree, like a female.
As Akilaandeswari took Upadesam as a student from the Lord here, this place is an Upadesa Sthalam and hence, no wedding is performed here for the God and Goddess.
Sthala Viruksham is “Venn Naaval” Tree and Theertham is Brahma Theertham.
Beautiful, vast temple with its unique history combined with stunning architecture all over.
Trichy is well connected by trains and buses. Buses and taxis are available in plenty from Trichy Chathram Bus Stand to Thiruvanaikkaa Temple itself.
Shri Kamakshi Amman
Shri Kamakshi Amman
Kamakshi Amman, Kanchipuram - Year 1951Such are the words that describe so beautifully the form of the Mother in the Soundarya Lahari. An ocean of beauty, far deeper than the star lit clear sky by night glowing in the presence of the moon. Within the chamber that houses the Goddess one can feel this silence of the night, this fragrance in the air. The darkness of the inner chamber, lit up with the lamps that bring the glow to her face, the Mother sits within, calm and compassionate to her children, her lotus eyes in partial bloom which is just truly divine.
The Mother was first captured on canvas by Artist Silpi in the year 1951. As the Artist meditated on the Mother, he asked for fewer flowers to cover her form so that he could capture her in greater detail. He describes her seated on her lotus seat, her feet covered in sacred kumkum powder, a different form of turmeric that is offered to the Goddess and later adorns the foreheads of her devotees. Kamakshi Amman, in her calm form is decorated with jewelry taken from the temple treasury. Her idol made of black stone, adds beauty to her face with the glow of red on her forehead depicting her third eye, one that she too possesses apart from her divine lord Shiva.
In front of her lies the sacred Sri Chakra yantra within its yoni peetha surrounded by 8 Goddesses, 3 to 4 of whom are captured here. The chamber is lit up with oil lamps that bring out the sacredness of her form, while the incense adds fragrance to her room. The brass bell is rung occasionally to present the Mother with the light, the flame of the arti that light up her divine face for the world to see. The brass pot with the spoon contains sacred water for her children to take, as a blessing of the Mother. The floor covered with offerings of flowers and kumkum bring peace to the mind when the ocean of beauty glides through.
Kamakshi Amman, Kanchipuram - Year 1963Artist Silpi had this chamber and the Goddess dressed with a difference in the year 1963, a form that is not always in our luck to see. Every element that adorned the Mother during a festival was pulled out of the temple treasury. The utsav murti is grandly decorated in these treasures, so much so that much of the Mother gets hidden among the shower of flowers that are offered to her. Within the chamber, the Artist observed every piece of jewelry that adorned the Mother. The pearls that adorns her neck, is described in the Soundarya Lahari as those found within the skull of elephants, in this case from the head of Gajasura, the elephant demon that Lord Shiva vanquished. She holds the silver sugarcane in one hand, and an intricately designed veena covered with precious stones in the other. The Goddess has been captured as she would be adorned on Vijaya Dasami day during Navaratri. During this time she takes the form of Saraswati and therefore holds the Veena. A parasol covered her head on this day, clearly painted for the benefit of the devotees, by the artist.
Brass lamps give way to silver, few flowers cover her divine beauty and her third eye glows on in red, while she displays compassion on her face. This form of the Goddess is unknown to the world at large; it is a glimpse we get if we are lucky enough to visit her shrine. It is through the paintings of this gifted painter, that we realize his silent sensitivity towards bringing this divine form of the Mother to the world. It is bringing alive the ocean of beauty of the Soundarya Lahari, through is paintings for those who have never set eyes on this form of the Mother.
Sri Madurai Meenakshiji
Sri Madurai Meenakshiji
The celestial wedding of Goddess Meenakshi with Lord Sundareswar at the world famous Madurai Meenakshi Temple
The 12-day Chithirai Festival began on April 9 and Pattabhishegam for Goddess Meenakshi is on April 16, Car festival is on April 19 and Devendra Pooja on April 20
Online Live streaming is only of the Thirukkalyanam, the celestial wedding of Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva) with Goddess Meenakshi Amman.
The celestial wedding will be on April 18 and is available Live Online from 07:00 am IST.
The live telecast and other details can be found at the official website of Madurai Meenakshi temple – www.maduraimeenakshi.org
Thursday, 5 November 2009
Jwala Devi
Jwala Devi
Jwala Devi is one of the major 'Shakti Peethas' of India. Jwala Devi Temple is located at a distance of 34 kms in south of Kangra in Himachal Pradesh. Even from Dharamshala, it lies at a stretch of 56 kms and moreover, it is easily accessible by the regular buses from both the places. For a convenient journey, one can opt for private taxis that are available throughout the state. The temple is dedicated to Jwala Devi (form of goddess), who is the presiding in the form of flames. Due to this fact, the goddess is also referred as the 'Flaming Goddess'.
Positioned besides a cliff, Jwalamukhi Mandir is built on a wooden platform in the Indo-Sikh style of architecture. The structural design of the temple is simple, but the religious aura makes it undoubtedly divine. The dome and spire of this temple are covered with Gold. The main door of the shrine is plated with silver. In front of the main shrine, there is a huge brass bell that was presented by the King of Nepal.
In the early times, people tried to explore the fact behind these burning flames, but nothing substantial was made out. These flames are burning due to some natural jets of combustible gas. The temple came to be known as the Jwala Devi Mandir. In this temple, there is no idol because the Goddess is considered to be residing in the form of flames. This temple has nine ceaseless flames that are named as Mahakali, Annapurna, Chandi, Hinglaj, Vindhya Vasini, Mahalakshmi, Saraswati, Ambika and Anji Devi respectively.
Inside the shrine, there is a pit where several flames are burning. The offerings are made to the Goddess in this same pit. The 'Aartis' at different intervals of the day, are the main attraction of this temple. Usually, an offering of Rabri or thickened milk is made to the goddess. In the temple complex, there are several small shrines including Gorakh Dibbi and Chaturbhuj Temple. These blue flames are coming out from the fissures in the ancient rock.
Being an important pilgrimage of the Hindus, devotees come to this temple in large numbers. During the days of Navaratri, the temple is thronged by countless number of devotees. Colorful fairs are also organized for the period of Navaratri in March-April and Sep-October. Earlier, this temple was administered by the descendants of Raja. After Independence, this temple was declared as the site of Cultural Heritage and that time onwards, it is under the management of the Government. There are not less than 102 priests to look after the sermons of the temple and even these priests are paid by the Government.
Legend behind the Temple
Jwalamukhi refers to the deity with flaming mouth. As per the legends, the mouth of Sati fell here at the time of self-sacrifice. Ever since, the Goddess occupied the place and she manifested in nine flames. After years, one day Raja Bhumi Chand Katoch, a resident of Kangra and a great devotee of Goddess Durga, dreamt of the holy place.
He sent his men to locate the place. With the grace of the Goddess, the site was found and Raja started constructing a temple. It is believed that Pandavas also contributed in the erection of this temple. However, the construction of this temple was completed in the 19th century, when Maharaja Ranjit Singh and his son, Kharak Singh, gave the Gold and Silver for the dome and door respectively.
Legend about Akbar, the Mughal Emperor
During the ruling period of Akbar, he learned about the legends of Jwalamukhi. In a fit of anger, he tried to douse the flames with a stream of water. The great power of the Goddess, still kept the flames burning. Realizing the power of Jwala Devi, Akbar came with his army to this temple. He brought a Gold umbrella (Chatra) for the Goddess, but on offering, the umbrella turned into an unknown metal suggesting that the Goddess didn't accept his offering.
Positioned besides a cliff, Jwalamukhi Mandir is built on a wooden platform in the Indo-Sikh style of architecture. The structural design of the temple is simple, but the religious aura makes it undoubtedly divine. The dome and spire of this temple are covered with Gold. The main door of the shrine is plated with silver. In front of the main shrine, there is a huge brass bell that was presented by the King of Nepal.
In the early times, people tried to explore the fact behind these burning flames, but nothing substantial was made out. These flames are burning due to some natural jets of combustible gas. The temple came to be known as the Jwala Devi Mandir. In this temple, there is no idol because the Goddess is considered to be residing in the form of flames. This temple has nine ceaseless flames that are named as Mahakali, Annapurna, Chandi, Hinglaj, Vindhya Vasini, Mahalakshmi, Saraswati, Ambika and Anji Devi respectively.
Inside the shrine, there is a pit where several flames are burning. The offerings are made to the Goddess in this same pit. The 'Aartis' at different intervals of the day, are the main attraction of this temple. Usually, an offering of Rabri or thickened milk is made to the goddess. In the temple complex, there are several small shrines including Gorakh Dibbi and Chaturbhuj Temple. These blue flames are coming out from the fissures in the ancient rock.
Being an important pilgrimage of the Hindus, devotees come to this temple in large numbers. During the days of Navaratri, the temple is thronged by countless number of devotees. Colorful fairs are also organized for the period of Navaratri in March-April and Sep-October. Earlier, this temple was administered by the descendants of Raja. After Independence, this temple was declared as the site of Cultural Heritage and that time onwards, it is under the management of the Government. There are not less than 102 priests to look after the sermons of the temple and even these priests are paid by the Government.
Legend behind the Temple
Jwalamukhi refers to the deity with flaming mouth. As per the legends, the mouth of Sati fell here at the time of self-sacrifice. Ever since, the Goddess occupied the place and she manifested in nine flames. After years, one day Raja Bhumi Chand Katoch, a resident of Kangra and a great devotee of Goddess Durga, dreamt of the holy place.
He sent his men to locate the place. With the grace of the Goddess, the site was found and Raja started constructing a temple. It is believed that Pandavas also contributed in the erection of this temple. However, the construction of this temple was completed in the 19th century, when Maharaja Ranjit Singh and his son, Kharak Singh, gave the Gold and Silver for the dome and door respectively.
Legend about Akbar, the Mughal Emperor
During the ruling period of Akbar, he learned about the legends of Jwalamukhi. In a fit of anger, he tried to douse the flames with a stream of water. The great power of the Goddess, still kept the flames burning. Realizing the power of Jwala Devi, Akbar came with his army to this temple. He brought a Gold umbrella (Chatra) for the Goddess, but on offering, the umbrella turned into an unknown metal suggesting that the Goddess didn't accept his offering.
Jwala Devi Temple
| Location: | At a distance of 34 kms in south of Kangra |
| Built by: | Raja Bhumi Chand Katoch |
| Dedicated to: | Jwala Devi (a form of Shakti) |
| Also known as: | Flaming Goddess |
| Attraction: | Nine flames that are burning without fuel |
| Significance: | One of the 51 Shakti Peethas |
| How to reach: | One can easily reach Jwala Devi Temple by taking regular Buses or by hiring Taxis from Kangra, Himachal Pradesh |
Annapurna Maa
Annapurna Maa - mumbai
Annapurna is the Hindu goddess of food and cooking. Annapurna is empowered with the ability to supply food to an unlimited amount of people.
Annapurna is an incarnation of the Hindu Goddess Parvati, the wife of Shiva. Temple art in India often depicts Lord Shiva with his begging bowl (skull), asking Annapurna to provide him food that gives the energy (Shakti) to achieve knowledge and enlightenment.
As such, Annapurna also symbolizes the divine aspect of nourishing care. The cook provides his guests with the energy to best follow their destiny. When food is cooked with a spirit of holiness, it becomes alchemy. Images of Annapurna are also found in kitchens, near dinner tables and in restaurants.
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