Story of Shiva and Vishnu

“There are two mahaa-phala daayaka Vrukshas. One by the name Vaasudeva and the other by the name Vaamadeva. They differ only in their sumas (flowers) (‘su’ is replaced by ‘ma’ in their names), but both give the same phalas (fruits, which is moksham)”. It is also often said, “How much one does not see the difference between Shiva and Vishnu, that much his aayu will increase”.

One day, when Lakshmi and Vishnu were together in vihaaram, Lakshmi sees Ucchaishravam, her brother, the horse of Revanta who is the son of Surya. Engrossed in seeing her brother, she does not reply to the repeated calls of Vishnu. Seeing her attraction, Vishnu gives her shaapam to go to Bhulokam in the form of a horse and come back to Vaikuntam only after getting a son equal to Himself! She comes to Bhuloka to experience the shaapam and realizing that none other than her brother, Shiva can help her calm Vishnu, she immediately does a tapas for Him and Shiva appears to save her soodari. Lakshmi says “You and Vishnu are both same, the Paramaatma. Please help me!”. Shiva says “Soodari! How do you know that we both are same? All learned people know that. Who told you?”. Lakshmi says, “Once Mahavishnu Himself told me this. Seeing Him in deep Daiva-dhyaanam, I asked Him “During Samudramanthanam, I thought you were the greatest of all and hence chose you. Devaadideva! Who is better than you that you are in dhyaanam of Him?”. Mahavishnu replied “I am doing Shankara-dhyaanam. He is Eshwara. He is the same as Me. All learned people know that. If someone is my devotee but still hates Shiva, he will fall into naraka”.

Saying this, She asks Shiva to pursuade Vishnu to bless Her with a child. Shiva sends Chitrarupa as a duta to convince Vishnu. Vishnu immediately accepts and comes to Bhuloka and blesses Lakshmi with Ekaveera, who is equal to Vishnu Himself. From Ekaveera came forth the Haihaya dynasty, of which the most noted king is Kartavirya Arjuna (Ekaveera’s grandson).

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Once when Naarada, the avatar of Vishnu, recited prayers glorifying Lord Shiva as the supreme controller of the universe, Lord Shiva, the best of Vaishnavas, at once covered his ears and angrily replied, “I am not the Lord of the universe, nor an object of Krishna’s mercy! I am just a poor aatma always hankering for the favor of the servants of His servants.” (Thus in this small story, Naarada, avataar of Vishnu, glorifies Shiva as the Paramaatma and Shiva glorifies Vishnu as the Paramaatma!)

The Story of Krishna and Bakasura

Bakasura is again one of the asuras contracted by Kamsa to kill Krishna. Bakasura was the brother of Putana, whose story is given earlier. Bakasura took the form of a giant bird and terrorised the cowherds and cowherdesses of Gokul. Krishna, in an act of bravery entered the beak of the bird, and then the bird closed its beak. But Krishna wriggled round and round inside so as to make Bakasura uneasy and ultimately Bakasura had to vomit Krishna out and he died on the spot.

Similar to Bakasura, his brother Aghasura was similarly deputed by Kamsa. But Krishna again vanquished him too who took the form of a giant serpent, by going inside and wriggling his body.

Lord Shiva Puja Method

PROCESS
After taking bath, wearing neat and clean clothes, the worshipper should make oneself sanctified. All the things for Shiv-poojan, as given before in the list of substantial material required, should be kept ready. The CHAUKI, on which the Shiv-Diety is to be throned should be covered by the white cloth and then the phallus-deity be enthroned after giving it a bath in milk, then in GANGAAJAL (water of river Gangaa) in full devotion.

In the same way, the SHIV-TALISMAN should also be placed on the CHAUKI. Shiv-Deity, may be of any metal, stone, wood or clay. It is convenient to have an inscribed Talisman on a copper-plate, otherwise it can be drawn on a bark of birch tree by white sandal.

After giving throne to Lord Shiva, incense stick and the clay-lamp be lighted. The KALASH should also be placed on the right side, filled with water. The leaves of the wood-apple should be sanctified by giving them wash in clean water. It is the assumption that ‘Raam’ ‘Raam’ is also written on these leaves by white sandal, it is more pleasing to God Shiva.
To begin with Pooja after having seat on the Aasan infront of the Diety.

Contemplation Mantra Of God Ganesha
It is a well assumed and known fact in Hindu religious rites and worship of any God, that it must be begun after paying devotional regards to Shree Ganesh Ji first. Hence, in Shiv-Poojan too, we are to worship Lord Ganesh first. His deity should also be place on the CHAUKI by the right side of the main deity. He should be given substantial offers as Arghya, unbroken rice, flowers, niaiviaidya etc. pronouncement of Contemplation Verse, which is as follows:

Aum sumukhashchiaikadantashcha
kapilo gajakarnak: I
Lambodarashcha vikato
Vighanaasho vinaayak: II
Dhoomrakeyturganaadyaksho
Bhaalachandro gajaanan: I
Dwaadwashayi: taani naamaani ya:
Patheychhu-nuyaadapi II
Vidyaarambhey vivaahey cha
Praveyshey nirgamey tathaa I
Sangraamey sankatashchayiva
Vighna tasya na jayatey II
Shuklaambaradharan
Deyvan shashivarn chaturabhujam I
Prasanna vadanan
Dhyaayeytsarva vighnopashaantyey II
BENEDICTION VERSE (SWASTI VAACHAN)

Lord Hanuman About the Simian God of the Hindus

Hanuman, the mighty ape that aided Lord Rama in his expedition against evil forces, is one of the most popular idols in the Hindu pantheon. Believed to be an avatar of Lord Shiva, Hanuman is worshiped as a symbol of physical strength, perseverance and devotion. Hanuman's tale in the epic Ramayana - where he is assigned the responsibility to locate Rama's wife Sita abducted by Ravana, the demon king of Lanka — is known for its astounding ability to inspire and equip a reader with all the ingredients needed to face ordeals and conquer obstructions in the way of the world.
The Necessity of a Simian Symbol
Hindus believe in ten avatars of Lord Vishnu among a multitude of gods and goddesses. One of Vishnu's avatars is Rama, who was created to destroy Ravana, the evil ruler of Lanka. In order to aid Rama, Lord Brahma commanded some gods and goddesses to take the avatar of 'Vanaras' or monkeys. Indra, the god of war and weather, was reincarnated as Bali; Surya, the sun god as Sugriva; Vrihaspati, the preceptor of the gods, as Tara, and Pavana, the god of wind, was reborn as Hanuman, the wisest, swiftest and strongest of all apes.
The Birth of Hanuman
The story of the birth of Hanuman goes thus: Vrihaspati had an attendant called Punjikasthala, who was cursed to assume the form of a female monkey — a curse that could only be nullified if she would give birth to an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Reborn as Anjana, she performed intense austerities to please Shiva, who finally granted her the boon that would cure her of the curse.

When Agni, the god of fire, gave Dasharath, the king of Ayodhya, a bowl of sacred dessert to share among his wives so they may have divine children, an eagle snatched a part of the pudding and dropped it where Anjana was meditating, and Pavana, the god of wind delivered the drop to her outstretched hands. After she took the divine dessert, she gave birth to Hanuman. Thus Lord Shiva incarnated as a monkey, and was born as Hanuman to Anjana, by the blessings of Pavana, who thus became Hanuman's godfather.
Hanuman's Childhood
The birth of Hanuman released Anjana from the curse. Before she returned to heaven, Hanuman asked his mother about his life ahead. She assured him that he would never die, and said that fruits as ripe as the rising sun would be his food. Mistaking the glowing sun as his food, the divine baby leapt for it. Indra struck him with his thunderbolt and hurled him down to earth. But Hanuman's godfather, Pavana carried him to the nether world or 'Patala'. As he departed from the earth, all life panted for air, and Brahma had to beg him to return. In order to appease him they conferred a lot of boons and blessings on his foster child that made Hanuman invincible, immortal and super powerful.
Hanuman's Education
Hanuman selected Surya, the sun god as his preceptor, and approached him with the request to teach the scriptures. Surya agreed and Hanuman became his disciple, but had to face his constantly moving guru by traversing the sky backwards at equal pace, while taking his lessons. Hanuman's phenomenal concentration took him only 60 hours to master the scriptures. Surya considered the manner in which Hanuman accomplished his studies as his tuition fees, but when Hanuman requested him to accept something more than that, the sun god asked Hanuman to assist his son Sugriva, by being his minister and compatriot.
Worshiping the Monkey God
On Tuesdays and in some cases, Saturdays, many people keep fast in honour of Hanuman and give special offerings to him. In times of trouble, it is a common faith among Hindus to chant the name of Hanuman or sing his hymn ("Hanuman Chalisa") and proclaim "Bajrangbali Ki Jai" — "victory to thy thunderbolt strength". Once every year — on the full-moon day of the Hindu month of Chaitra (April) at sunrise — Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Hanuman. Hanuman temples are among the most common public shrines found in India.
The Power of Devotion
The character of Hanuman teaches us of the unlimited power that lies unused within each one of us. Hanuman directed all his energies towards the worship of Lord Rama, and his undying devotion made him such that he became free from all physical fatigue. And Hanuman's only desire was to go on serving Rama. Hanuman perfectly exemplifies 'Dasyabhava' devotion — one of the nine types of devotions — that bonds the master and the servant. His greatness lies in his complete merger with his Lord, which also formed the base of his genial qualities.

Shani dev ki katha (story) jai shani dev

Maa Lakshmi Aarti Song

In order to please the Goddess of Wealth, Lakshmi puja is conducted on the third (main) day of the five-day festival, Diwali. On the day, people clean their home and premises, illuminate the place with earthen lamps (diya) and electric lights. In the evening, they offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi and pray for good health and prosperity. During the puja, some like singing bhajans, while others chant mantras. The puja is culminated by aarti, which is accompanied by a song. If you do not know any song suitable for aarti, this article would be helpful. In the lines below, we have provided the lyrics for Goddess Lakshmi aarti song. You may sing the song to the tune of 'Om Jai Jagadish Hare'.

Maa Lakshmi Aarti

Jai lakshmi maataa, maiyaa jai lakshmi maataa
Tumko nishadin dhyaavata, hara vishnu vidhaataa
Brahmaani, rudraani, kamlaa, tu hi hai jaga maataa
Surya chandramaa dhyaavata, naarada rishi gaataa
Durgaa rupaa nirantara, sukha sampati daataa
Jo koi tumko dhyaavata, riddhi siddhi dhana paataa
Tu hi hai paatala basanti, tu hi shubha daataa
Karma prabhaava prakaashaka, jaganidhi ke traataa
Jis ghara mein tum rahati, saba sadaguna aataa
Kara sake koii kara le, mana nahin ghabaraataa
Tuma bina yagya na hove, vastra na koii paataa
Khaana paana ka vaibhava, sab tumse hi aataa
Shubha guna mandira sundara, kshirodadhi jaataa
Ratana chaturdasha tuma hi, koii nahin paataa
Aartii lakshmii ji ki, jo koii nar gaataa
Ura aananda umanga ati, paap utar jaataa

Shri krishna story

Once upon a time there lived an evil, wicked and ambitious king by name of Kamsa in Mathura. He plundered the kingdom left and right and lawlessness prevailed in his state. On one of the days a heavenly prophecy from the sky came and echoed, "Kamsa! Your end is near! The eighth son of Devaki, your sister, will be the one responsible for your death." Kamsa was enraged beyond control and imprisoned Devaki, his sister and Vasudeva her husband. Then he killed every child of the couple as they were born. But just the midnight when the eighth child was born, the skies roared and Lord Vishnu advised Vasudeva to take the child across the river Yamuna to the other side to the village of Gokul and exchange with the daughter of Yashoda in Gokul, who was born on the same day. Vasudeva accordingly put the child in a basket, and as he went out the doors of the prison parted for him as if in a magic. The river parted into two to allow for Vasudeva to cross. Vasudeva then crossed into Gokul and exchanged his son with the daughter of Yashoda who was born the same day and came back. The baby uttered cries which awakened Kamsa, and then happily he went to the prison chamber and snatched the girl baby and as he lifted her in the air, the baby, who was an incarnation of the Devi herself, laughed in glee "Kamsa, your real enemy is still alive. The son of Devaki is alive and well and will come back to kill you", and then disappeared. Kamsa was outraged beyond wits and started a killing spree of all boys at that age in his kingdom. It was a terror outbreak.

Krishna led a very pampered and amorous life in the Gokul, along side thousands of gopikaas, the cowherdesses who were all entralled at his beauty and were thrilled whenever he played the flute. There are numerous playful instances of Krishna, playing mischief with the gopikaas including breaking their butter pots. Many a poets, literarians have described these amorous and mischievious acts as Raas-Lila of Krishna. Among all the gopikaas, one Radha was special to Krishna. There are numerous amorous tales of Radha and Krishna together. Krishna is also known to be a very mischievious child who annoyed Yashoda a lot. A lot of dohas (poems) described by Mirabai, an ardent devotee of Krishna, are very popular which describe the naughty acts of Krishna. Among them the one titled "Maiya Mori Main nahi makhan khayo" is an all-time favourite. It describes the excuses which Krishna gives to his mother yashoda explaining that he was not responsible for stealing of the butter from the gopikaas.

Krishna incarnated in this world to eliminate evil elements from this world. There are numerous tales of his bravery since his childhood. Many of the stories are related to the attempts by Kamsa, to kill Krishna after Kamsa came to know that Krishna was in Gokul alive. Some of the tales are given below

As Krishna grew older he left the heavenly Gokul, and the idyllic life alongside Gopis, to go and kill Kamsa. He killed Kamsa, and then settled in Dwaraka along with his brother Balram and learnt the traditional arts of fighting including archery. He arbitrated in the fight between the Pandavas and Kauravas in Mahabharata. During the war he is well known for his monologue to Arjuna on the battlefield, which is together termed as the Bhagvad Gita. There are many stories of Krishna, starting from his childhood to his death including his role in Mahabarata war, his rule over Dwaraka, his childhood amorous acts with gopikaas including Radha, his winning of wives like Satyabhama etc.

Ganesha: Lord of Success

Ganesha — the elephant-deity riding a mouse — has become one of the commonest mnemonics for anything associated with Hinduism. This not only suggests the importance of Ganesha, but also shows how popular and pervasive this deity is in the minds of the masses.

The Lord of Success
The son of Shiva and Parvati, Ganesha has an elephantine countenance with a curved trunk and big ears, and a huge pot-bellied body of a human being. He is the Lord of success and destroyer of evils and obstacles. He is also worshipped as the god of education, knowledge, wisdom and wealth. In fact, Ganesha is one of the five prime Hindu deities (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva and Durga being the other four) whose idolatry is glorified as the panchayatana puja.

Significance of the Ganesha Form
Ganesha's head symbolizes the Atman or the soul, which is the ultimate supreme reality of human existence, and his human body signifies Maya or the earthly existence of human beings. The elephant head denotes wisdom and its trunk represents Om, the sound symbol of cosmic reality. In his upper right hand Ganesha holds a goad, which helps him propel mankind forward on the eternal path and remove obstacles from the way. The noose in Ganesha's left hand is a gentle implement to capture all difficulties.

The broken tusk that Ganesha holds like a pen in his lower right hand is a symbol of sacrifice, which he broke for writing the Mahabharata. The rosary in his other hand suggests that the pursuit of knowledge should be continuous. The laddoo (sweet) he holds in his trunk indicates that one must discover the sweetness of the Atman. His fan-like ears convey that he is all ears to our petition. The snake that runs round his waist represents energy in all forms. And he is humble enough to ride the lowest of creatures, a mouse.

How Ganesha Got His Head
The story of the birth of this zoomorphic deity, as depicted in the Shiva Purana, goes like this: Once goddess Parvati, while bathing, created a boy out of the dirt of her body and assigned him the task of guarding the entrance to her bathroom. When Shiva, her husband returned, he was surprised to find a stranger denying him access, and struck off the boy's head in rage. Parvati broke down in utter grief and to soothe her, Shiva sent out his squad (gana) to fetch the head of any sleeping being who was facing the north. The company found a sleeping elephant and brought back its severed head, which was then attached to the body of the boy. Shiva restored its life and made him the leader (pati) of his troops. Hence his name 'Ganapati'. Shiva also bestowed a boon that people would worship him and invoke his name before undertaking any venture.

However, there's another less popular story of his origin, found in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana: Shiva asked Parvati to observe the punyaka vrata for a year to appease Vishnu in order to have a son. When a son was born to her, all the gods and goddesses assembled to rejoice on its birth. Lord Shani, the son of Surya (Sun-God), was also present but he refused to look at the infant. Perturbed at this behaviour, Parvati asked him the reason, and Shani replied that his looking at baby would harm the newborn. However, on Parvati's insistence when Shani eyed the baby, the child's head was severed instantly. All the gods started to bemoan, whereupon Vishnu hurried to the bank of river Pushpabhadra and brought back the head of a young elephant, and joined it to the baby's body, thus reviving it.

Ganesha, the Destroyer of Pride
Ganesha is also the destroyer of vanity, selfishness and pride. He is the personification of material universe in all its various magnificent manifestations. "All Hindus worship Ganesha regardless of their sectarian belief," says D N Singh in A Study of Hinduism. "He is both the beginning of the religion and the meeting ground for all Hindus."

Ganesh Chaturthi
The devotees of Ganesha are known as 'Ganapatyas', and the festival to celebrate and glorify him is called Ganesh Chaturthi.
More Ganesha Stories

Shani Dev

Shani Dev is one of the most popular deities that the Hindus pray to ward off evil and remove obstacles.

Shani literally means the “slow-moving-one”. According to myths, Shani oversees the "dungeons of the human heart and the dangers that lurks there."

Shani is represented as having a dark complexion and is said to be the son of Surya, the sun god, and Chaya, the servant whom his wife Swarna surrogated. He is the brother of Yama, the god of death and is believed by many to be an avatar of Shiva.The Lord of Bad Luck?:
Stories about his evil influence abound. Shani is said to have chopped off Ganesha’s head. He is lame and has a limp because his knee was injured when he fought as a child with Yama. In the mythology, he is represented as riding a chariot, carrying a bow and arrow and pulled by a vulture or crow. Shani is found wearing a blue cloth, blue flowers and sapphire.

He is also known as Saura (son of sun-god), Kruradris or Kruralochana (the cruel-eyed), Mandu (dull and slow), Pangu (disabled), Saptarchi (seven-eyed) and Asita (dark).
The Ill-effect of His Planet - Saturn:
Hindus are under fear of evil from his planet - Saturn. In Vedic astrology, the planetary position at the time of birth determines the future of a person. So, Hindus accord immense importance to the planets, and Saturn or Shani is one such planet which they fear the most for ill-luck. Anyone born under his influence is believed to at risk.
How to Appease Shani:
To appease him, many pay obeisance every Saturday by lighting a lamp before the image of Shani and reading the ‘Shani Mahatmyaham’. He is pleased to accept lamps lit with sesame or mustard oil. Even the day named after him, Shanivara or Saturday, is considered inauspicious to begin any new venture.
The Giver of Kindness:
“Yet o son of Chhaya (shadow) you are the fire who can destroy Time itself and like Kamadhenu, the wish giving cow, you grant us all good things with kindness and compassion”, wrote Muthuswami Dikshitar (1775-1835) in his musical ‘Navagraha’ (Nine Planets) composition in Sanskrit.
Shani Temples:
Most Hindu temples have a little shrine set apart for the ‘Navagraha’ or the nine planets where Shani is placed. Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, the oldest Navagraha temple has the most benign Shani. Another important Shani temple is at Shingnapur in Maharashtra where the deity is represented as a block of stone. Navi Mumbai has a Sri Shaniswar temple at Nerul while Delhi has a popular Shanidham at Fatehpur Beri in the historic Mehrauli area.

Lord Vishnu

Lord Vishnu's preserving, protecting powers have been manifested to the world in a variety of forms, called Avatars, in which one or more of his divine attributes were embodied in the shape of a human being or an animal or a human-animal combined form, possessing great and sometimes supernatural powers. All these Avatars of Vishnu appeared in the world either to correct some great evil or to effect some great good on earth. These avatars are ten in number, however, the Bhag wad Purana increases them to twenty two and adds further that are innumerable.

Of the ten universally recognized avatars, nine have already manifested whereas the tenth is yet to appear.

It is important to note that the all the Avatars are earthly form of Lord Vishnu , who himself is eternal, unchangeable and immutable.

Parashurama shows the man of power, Rama the Divine warrior and protector, Krishna the Divine lover, Buddha the Divine sage, and Kalki the completer and saviour . In this scheme we see the idea of the evolution of the soul from the animal re alms to perfect spiritual knowledge.

The idea of the messiah came to the western religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam from the Zoroastrian religion of ancient Persia. Zoroastrianism has similar incarnations of Vrithragna (Indra). Hence it is related to the avatar idea of the Hindus.

Note : In some versions Buddha is replaced by Balarama. We have given a description of both.

Legend of Lord Rama

As per the widespread legends, Lord Rama is considered as the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who took an Avatar to annihilate the demon king Ravana. Rama is known for his stainless personality and matchless simplicity. Shri Ram is one of the popular gods of Hindu religion. He was effulgent like the sun, in forgiveness like the earth, in intelligence like Brihaspati, in frame like Vasava, in prowess like Indra.

Victory of Rama - The Legend
The stories and glorious deeds of Lord Rama are renowned throughout the world. Here we will discuss the story of victory of Rama over Ravana, the demon. According to Ramayana, Diwali celebrates the return of Ram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the eldest son of King Dasharath of Ayodhya, from his 14-year exile with Sita and Lakshman after killing the Ravan, a demon king. The people of Ayodhya lighted the kingdom with earthen diyas (oil lamps) and fireworks to celebrate the return of their king. The legend of Rama says, Lord Rama was the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He was a great warrior King. His father Dashratha, the King of Ayodhya sent him to exile along with his wife Sita and his younger brother Lakshman, on his wife's (Kaikeyi) insistence. After 14 years of exile, in which he puts an end to the demon Ravana, Lord Rama returned to his Kingdom Ayodhya.

Ravana caged Sita and enforced her to marry him but she didn't agree to this. Lord Rama with the help of Hanuman, Sugreev and Bali and their "Vaanar Sena" attacked Lanka and after a severe battle, got Sitaji released from the control of Ravana. After this victory of Good over Evil, Rama returned to Ayodhya.

According to the legend, people welcomed them by lighting rows of clay lamps in Ayodhya. Great celebrations were held and everyone was happy for Rama to be the King of Ayodhya. This celebration took place on the night of the new moon of Ashwin (October-November). From that day onwards; people celebrate this occasion as the most delightful festival of India and of the Hindu Religion. Even today Diwali celebration means -happiness, fireworks and sweets.

Thus the festival of diwali is an honour of Rama's victory over Ravana.

Story of God Shani Dev and Hanumanji

God Hanuman is the incarnation of Lord Shiva. He is a great devotee of Lord Rama. He helped to Rama in the war with Ravan. Mace (Gada in Hindi) is the weapon of this God. The other name of Hanumanji is Mahaveer, Pavan Suta, Bajarangbali, Kesharinandan etc. Here, is the story of God shanidev & Hanumanji.As per Hindu Epic Ramayana, When Hanuman went to the Lanka in search of Sita mata (Wife of Lord Rama). After meeting with Sita mata, when Hanumanji was coming back, he met with many God who were in clutch of Rakshash (Evil) King Ravan. God Shanidev was also there. Hanumanji helped freeing shanidev and getting out of Lanka.
Because of Hanumanji helped Shanidev they both became friends. Here, Shanidev Promised to Hanuman that anyone who prayed to him (Hanuman), he would be rescued from the baleful effects of Shanidev.Other story of Shanidev and Hanumanji:
God Surya Dev is the Father of Shanidev. Surya dev is also the Guru (Teacher) of Hanumanji. After the completion of course, Surya dev said to Hanuman, “You have become adept in all forms of wisdom and weapons, now go to your mother Anjani” But Hanumanji requested to Surya dev “Give me an opportunity to repay for your tutelage” Suryadev said to Hanuman, “my wayward son shani is the cause of my sorrow only, Go and bring that wayward son of mine back to me”. Listening to the order of Surya dev, Hanuman went to Shanilok. When he was going to shanilok many planets tried to stop him but they were unable.
When Shanidev saw hanuman he asked to him, “Who are you? Why are you come here? Do you not fear with die?” Hanumanji replied, “I am Hanuman, The disciple of Lord Surya. Lord Shani you have all power & virtues, but your greatest drawback is disobeying your father. It’s not good & it’s the greatest sin. I have come here to take you to your father.” Hearing all this Shani became angry & said, “You don’t know my power, Powerful god also trembled with my power so better thing for you go back immediately otherwise I will burn you” Hanuman replied, “I have not came here to go back”. Then Shani Dev crooked gaze on Hanuman but shanidev could not burn him so, Shanidev sat on his head. They were inside a room. Immediately Hanuman increased his size because of which shani pressed between hanuman and the ceiling. When the pain was unbearable, Shani requested to God Hanuman to release him. When shanidev became free from Hanuman then shanidev Promised to Hanuman, “Anyone who will worship you on Saturday, I will never be terminate them.” After that shanidev & hanumanji went to Suryadev. Shanidev became happy to see them.


You can impress Hanumanji & shanidev by Reading Hanuman Chalisa. Hanuman chalisa is given below. here, you can also listen this.

Hanuman Chalisa

DOHA
sri guru carana saroj raja nija mana mukura sudhar,
varanaun raghuvara vimala yasa, yo dayaka phala chara
buddhina tanu janike sumiraun pavana kumara,
bala buddhi vidya dehu mohin, harau klesa vikara


jaya hanumana jnana guna sagara, jaya kapisa tihun loka ujagara,
rama duta atulita bala dhama, anjani putra pavana suta nama

mahavira vikrama bajarangi kumati nivara sumati ke sangi,
kanchana varana viraja suvesa, kanana kundala kunchita kesa

hatha bajur aru dhvaja virajai, kandhe munja janeu sajai,
sankara suvana kesari nandana, tej pratapa maha jaga vandana

vidyavan guni ati chatur, rama kaja karive ko atur,
prabhu charitra sunive ko rasiya, rama lakshmana sita mana basiya

suksma rupa dhari siyahin dikhava, vikata rupa dhari lanka jarava,
bhima rupa dhari asura sanhare, ramachandra ke kaja sanvare

lae sanjivana lakhan jiyaye sri raghuvira harshi ura laye,
raghupati kinhi bahuta badai, tum mama priya bharatai sama bhai

sahasa vadana tumharo yasa gaven, asa kahi sripati kantha lagaven,
sanakadika brahmadi munisa narada sarada sahita ahisa

yama kuvera digapala jahante kavi kovida kahi saken kahante,
tuma upakara sugrivahin kinha rama milaya raja pada dinha

tumharo mantra vibhisana mana lankesvara bhae saba jaga jana,
yuga sahasra yojana para bhanu, lilyo tahi madhura phala janun

prabhu mudrika meli mukha mahin jaldi landi gaye acaraja nahin,
durgama kaja jagata ke jete, sugama anugraha tumhare te te

rama duare tuma rakhavere hot na ajna vinu paisare,
saba sukha lahai tumhari sarana, tuma raksaka kahu ko darana

apana teja samharo ape tinon loka hankate kanpe,
bhuta pisacha nikata nahin ave, mahavira japa nama sunave

nashai roga harai saba pira, japata nirantara hanumata vira,
sankata se hanumana churavai, mana rama vachana dhyana jo lavai

saba para rama tapasvi raja tina ke kaja sakala tuma saja,
aur manoratha jo koi lavai soy amita jivana phala pavain

charon yuga paratapa tumhara, hai parasiddhi jagata uyjiara,
sadhu santa ke tum rakhavare, asura nikandana rama dulare

asta siddhi nava nidhi ke data, asa vara dina janaki mata,
rama rasayana tumhare pasa, sada raho raghupati ke dasa

tumhare bhajana rama ko pavai janma janma ke dukha visravai,
anta kale raghupati pura jay, jahan janmen hari bhakta kahai

aur devata chitta na dharai, hanumata sei sarva sukha karai,
sankata harai mitai saba pira, jo sumire hanumata balavira

jaya jaya jaya hanumana gosain, kripa karau gurudeva ki nain,
yah satavara patha kara jaya chhutahin band maha sukha hoy

jo yaha parhai hanumana chalisa haya siddhi sakhi gaurisha,
tulasidasa sada harichera kije natha hridaya mahana dera


DOHA
pavanatanaya sankata harana mangala murti rupa,
rama lakhana sita sahita hridaya basahu sura bhupa


Bolo siyavara ramachandra ki jaya,
pavana suta hanumana ki jaya,
Bajarangbali ki Jaya

Ganesh Chaturthi : How to celebrate the great Ganesha festival

Ganesha Chaturthi, the great Ganesha festival, also known as 'Vinayak Chaturthi' or 'Vinayaka Chavithi' is celebrated by Hindus around the world as the birthday of Lord Ganesha. It is observed during the Hindu month of Bhadra (mid-August to mid-September) and the grandest and most elaborate of them, especially in the western India state of Maharashtra, lasts for 10 days, ending on the day of 'Ananta Chaturdashi'.
The Grand Celebration
A life-like clay model of Lord Ganesha is made 2-3 months prior to the day of Ganesh Chaturthi. The size of this idol may vary from 3/4th of an inch to over 25 feet.

On the day of the festival, it is placed on raised platforms in homes or in elaborately decorated outdoor tents for people to view and pay their homage. The priest, usually clad in red silk dhoti and shawl, then invokes life into the idol amidst the chanting of mantras. This ritual is called 'pranapratishhtha'. After this the 'shhodashopachara' (16 ways of paying tribute) follows. Coconut, jaggery, 21 'modakas' (rice flour preparation), 21 'durva' (trefoil) blades and red flowers are offered. The idol is anointed with red unguent or sandal paste (rakta chandan). Throughout the ceremony, Vedic hymns from the Rig Veda and Ganapati Atharva Shirsha Upanishad, and Ganesha stotra from the Narada Purana are chanted.

For 10 days, from Bhadrapad Shudh Chaturthi to the Ananta Chaturdashi, Ganesha is worshipped. On the 11th day, the image is taken through the streets in a procession accompanied with dancing, singing, to be immersed in a river or the sea symbolizing a ritual see-off of the Lord in his journey towards his abode in Kailash while taking away with him the misfortunes of all man. All join in this final procession shouting "Ganapathi Bappa Morya, Purchya Varshi Laukariya" (O father Ganesha, come again early next year). After the final offering of coconuts, flowers and camphor is made, people carry the idol to the river to immerse it.

The whole community comes to worship Ganesha in beautifully done tents. These also serve as the venue for free medical checkup, blood donation camps, charity for the poor, dramatic performances, films, devotional songs, etc. during the days of the festival.

Swami Sivananda Recommends
On the Ganesh Chaturthi day, meditate on the stories connected with Lord Ganesha early in the morning, during the Brahmamuhurta period. Then, after taking a bath, go to the temple and do the prayers of Lord Ganesha. Offer Him some coconut and sweet pudding. Pray with faith and devotion that He may remove all the obstacles that you experience on the spiritual path. Worship Him at home, too. You can get the assistance of a pundit. Have an image of Lord Ganesha in your
house. Feel His Presence in it.

Don’t forget not to look at the moon on that day; remember that it behaved unbecomingly towards the Lord. This really means avoid the company of all those who have no faith in God, and who deride God, your Guru and religion, from this very day.

Take fresh spiritual resolves and pray to Lord Ganesha for inner spiritual strength to attain success in all your undertakings.

May the blessings of Sri Ganesha be upon you all! May He remove all the obstacles that stand in your spiritual path! May He bestow on you all material prosperity as well as liberation!

What is Shani Sade Sati : Good or Bad?

The term Sade Sati is a Hindi word which means ‘seven and a half”, wherein “sade” stands for “half” and “sati” stands for “seven”.  The term has been used to explain a particular phase of Saturn transit in the moon-chart of an individual. When the planet Saturn enters the twelfth house of a moon-chart, the sadesati is said to begin and continues till it remains in the second house. This means that the day Saturn leaves the second house from the moon, the sadesati of a person comes to an end.  Saturn remains in one sign for approximately two and a half years. That is why to transit through the three signs it takes a total of seven and a half years, when it transits through the sign previous to one’s moon sign, the moon sign itself, and the sign next to the moonsign.
It is a basic astrological common knowledge that a chart has twelve houses and every planet passes through all of these houses one by one in their own time period. This means that Saturn also passes through all twelve houses. Then why has its transit through the twelfth, first and second houses from moon has been given extra consideration and labeled as “sade sati”. I may say that there are two reasons for that—one which is a technical reason is that it is a CONVENIENCE CONCEPT, that is, to segment one part of study of Saturn transit out of its entire journey through the twelve houses, thus, to make it more simplified and understandable. Another reason is more substantial, which is, that a rashi or moonsign of a native is one of the most important influences in his life, and on the other hand, Saturn transit is also crucial as it is for a very long time that this planet remains in a particular sign and house. So if we combine these two considerations, that is, the significant duration and role of the planet Saturn in a person’s life and the significance of the moonsign, then we would realize the need of this treating this phase as a special transit. Apart from the moonsign, the previous and the subsequent signs have been involved because they are the closest to the moonsign and thus Saturn being close to moonsign from these two positions influence it significantly.
As an Astrologer, I always try to take an objective and non-scary way of interpretations. So, before delving into the hardships which sadesati brings, I would like to mention as to what exactly leads to this general PHOBIA of sadesati and five topmost reasons that sadesati can even be extraordinarily beneficial.
People are scared of the planet Saturn because it is a hard taskmaster. It makes them work hard and bring discipline in their lives which means the person under its influence has to now grow up and stop being a playful kid. However, once the person is already mature enough or attains maturity, the benefits of this planet can be reaped of and enjoyed which are very permanent and stable. Following are the topmost five reasons how and why this phase may be enjoyed rather than be scared of :
#1) FOR THOSE WHO HAVE SATURN AS A BENEFIC PLANET
Although Saturn has been designated as a natural malefic, for a few ascendants or lagnas, it becomes benefic and even a raj-yog-karaka. These are those who have Taurus, Gemini, Virgo, Libra, Capricorn and Aquarius as their ascendants. For these people, Saturn brings good results in some phase of sade-sati and thus the entire seven and a half year period is not bad for them and in fact, as I said, a part of it can be even beneficial. It could be the first dhaiyya (the first two and a half years), the second dhaiyya and/or the third dhaiyya.
#2) EFFECTS OF SADESATI ALSO DEPEND ON THE SIGN THROUGH WHICH SATURN IS TRANSITING
Mercury and Venus are permanent friends of Saturn’s. If it is passing through signs owned be these planets, then the chances are high that the results shall be very beneficial for the native. Thus, if Saturn is transiting through Virgo, Gemini, Taurus, and Libra signs, then it will give very beneficial results. In fact, Saturn at the present time, that is in February/March 2010 is in Virgo which is generally good for all people as it is in its friendly sign. Also, if any hardships are to be brought for those under sadesati influence during these days, they shall be mitigated to a large extent. Also if Saturn is transiting through its own signs, that is, Capricorn and Aquarius, the benefits shall be more positive than negative.
#3) PLACEMENT OF SATURN IN THE LAGNA CHART AND/OR NAVAMANSH
If Saturn is beneficially disposed in the birth chart or the D-9 chart, that is, if it is placed in the third, sixth, eighth, tenth, eleventh or twelfth house, then it will lead to overall good influences in the native’s life, although some exceptions may come under this category, depending upon all the combinations.
#4) IF SATURN IS VARGOTTAM
Saturn also becomes a beneficial influence if it occupies the same sign in the birth chart and in navamansh.
#5) TIME TO LEARN
Despite all the adversities that are brought forward with sadesati, it is a phase which leads to permanent changes in the person’s personality as the tribulations and the rewards it brings are of a permanent nature. The gains and losses in the native’s life lead to a permanent impact on the psyche of the person. The period of sadesati takes away the natural support system of the person, leaving him on his own and thus leads to the maturity of the person as he learns to survive in the world.
To remove the fear of sadesati, was the main object of my write-up and I hope I have been able to do that for all of my readers. To add to these, I would now mention certain results which occur during this phase so that the person can prepare himself to face these.
POSITIVE RESULTS may include rewards paid for hard-work, wider social acceptance and help, good family life, career advancement, overcoming obstacles and sound health.
NEGATIVE RESULTS may include public humiliation, result of hard-work delayed or compromised, failures in enterprises and efforts, disturbed family life, greater challenges and health problems
Apart from this, it may be noted that the first dhaiyaa is beneficial for the following moonsigns-Gemini, Cancer, Libra, Scorpio, Aquarius and Pisces and it is bad for the following moonsigns- Taurus, Leo, Virgo, Sagittarius and give neutral or mixed results for Aries and Capricorn moons. The second dhaiyya is good for following moonsigns-Taurus, Gemini, Virgo, Libra Capricorn and Aquarius, and is bad for Aries, Cancer, Leo and Scorpio moons. It gives neutral or mixed results for Sagittarius and Pisces moons. The third dhaiyya is good for Aries, Taurus, Leo, Virgo, Sagittarius and Capricorn moons, bad for Gemini, Cancer, Libra and Pisces moons, and mixed and neutral for Scorpio and Aquarius moons.

In conclusion, I would like to say that although sadesati is infamous for being a difficult time in a person’s life, if the person keeps in mind certain truths like above about this time, it can bring a lot of mental and practical ease in his life. The adverse results can be mitigated with the right attitude and positive results can be accrued gracefully and with humility—and that is what exactly, Saturn is there for - TO TEACH US HUMILITY IN LIFE.

Amarnath Yatra -Everything you want to know !

The Amarnath caves (Hindi: अमरनाथ गुफा, Urdu: امرناتھ گُپھا) are one of the most famous shrines in Hinduism, dedicated to the god Shiva, located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. The shrine is claimed to be over 5,000 years old and forms an important part of Hindu mythology.

Inside the main Amarnath cave lies an ice stalagmite resembling the Shiva Linga, which waxes during May to August and gradually wanes thereafter. This lingam is said to grow and shrink with the phases of the moon, reaching its height during the summer festival. According to Hindu mythology, this is the cave where Shiva explained the secret of life and eternity to his divine consort Parvati. Two other ice formations represent Parvati and Shiva's son, Ganesha.

The cave is situated at an altitude of 3,888 m (12,756 ft),[2] about 141 km (88 mi) from Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir. The Central Reserve Police Force, Indian Army and Indian Paramilitary Forces maintain a strong presence in the region due to security concerns.Aryaraja (34 BCE-17CE) used to spend “the most delightful Kashmir summer” in worshiping a lingam formed of snow/ice “in the regions above the forests”. This too appears to be a reference to the ice lingam at Amarnath. There is yet another reference to Amareshwara or Amarnath in the Rajatarangini (Book VII v.183). According to Kalhana, Queen Suryamati, the wife of King Ananta (1028–1063), “granted under her husband’s name agraharas at Amareshwara, and arranged for the consŵecration of trishulas, banalingas and other [sacred emblems]”.

In his Chronicle of Kashmir, a sequel to Kalhana’s Rajatarangini, Jonaraja relates that that Sultan Zainu’l-abidin (1420–1470) paid a visit to the sacred tirtha of Amarnath while constructing a canal on the left bank of the river Lidder (vv.1232-1234).[citation needed] The canal is now known as Shah Kol.

In the Fourth Chronicle named Rajavalipataka, which was begun by Prjayabhatta and completed by Shuka, there is a clear and detailed reference to the pilgrimage to the sacred site (v.841,vv. 847-849).

How to remember Rahu Kalam

Although the time Rahukaalam falls on each day, and its span varies and needs to be calculated as per the sunrise and sunset time. You may use the times below if you do not have access to accurate Rahukaal. These times are accurate only if the day lasts for 12 hours, and the sunrise is at 6.00 AM. You can adjust an approximation according to the sunrise and day length in your area.

All you need to remember is the phrase " [Mother Saw Father Wearing The Turban Slowly]"

Mother = Monday : 7:30 - 9:00
Saw = Saturday : 9:00 - 10:30
Father = Friday : 10:30 - 12:00
Wearing = Wednesday : 12:00 - 13:30
The = Thursday : 13:30 - 15:00
Turban = Tuesday : 15:00 - 16:30
Slowly = Sunday : 16:30 - 18:00

Instead of the above one there's another easy way to remember: " [--Edward Brought Home A Good Ford car.]"
Starting with Monday count the First letter of every word and add half of the same which is 11/2 Ex: E is the letter 5+21/2 = 7:30 so Monday its 7:30- 9:00.

(Edward) Monday - 7:30 -9:00

(Brought) Tuesday - 3:00 -4:30PM

(Home) Wednesday - 12 - 1:30PM

(A) Thursday - 1:30 - 3:00PM

(Good) Friday - 10:30 - 12:00

(Ford) Saturday - 9:00 - 10:30

(car) Sunday - 4:30 - 6:30PM


Eleven Boys Had A Good Football Club is a very popular way as above to remember Rahu Kalam duration.

Rahukaalam ???

Rahukaalam (also spelled as Rahukal or Rahu kalam) or the period of Rahu is a certain amount of time every day that is considered inauspicious for any new venture according to Indian astrology (Vedic).

In Hindu mythology, Rahu Kala is one of the 8 segments of the day and considered inauspicious period in Indian astrology due to its associated with malefic, Rahu . The segments are calculated by taking the total time between sunrise and sunset, at a given place, and then dividing this time duration by 8. Astronomically in the Hindu Panchangas, the ever varying planetary configurations mean that the auspicious hours during each day will not always fall at the same moment of time. Rahukalam and Yama Ghantam are the two time periods which are especially considered inauspicious or unlucky (Ashub).

The planets according to Indian astronomers were the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Rahu and Ketu. Rahukaalam and Gulikaalalam are calculated based on these planets. Even though Rahu and Ketu are not physical bodies, they are sensitive points on the intersection of the ecliptic (the apparent path of motion of the Sun) by the Moon's orbit. Rahu is the northern point and Ketu is the southern point. Ancient astronomers felt that the mighty Rahu and Kethu have the strength to eat the sun, thus causing a solar eclipse. Hence it is considered inauspicious to begin any undertaking during this "Rahukaalam". Every day this Rahukaalam lasts for around 90 minutes, but the duration differs according to the length of the time between sunrise to sunset.

To calculate Rahukaalam, the time between the sunrise and sunset is divided into 8 units or time-groups, which time-group will have the Rahukaalam depends on the weekday.

For each weekday, Rahukaalam falls as under:

Sunday - 8th Muhurtha (Unit)
Monday - 2nd Muhurtha
Tuesday - 7th Muhurtha
Wednesday - 5th Muhurtha
Thursday - 6th Muhurtha
Friday - 4th Muhurtha
Saturday - 3rd Muhurtha

Shiva Mahamrityunjaya Mantra