GOD STORY

Jai Jai Jai Hanuman Ki

2011-09-15T21:06:00.000-07:00

Download Jai Jai Jai Hanuman Ki

Hanuman Bhajan

2011-09-15T21:05:00.001-07:00

Dowonlaod Bhjan here

Shree Hanuman Aarti

2011-09-15T21:02:00.000-07:00

Downlaod Shree Hanuman Aarti

hanuman Bhjan

2011-09-15T21:00:00.000-07:00

Download Hanuman Stavan

Hanuman Bhjan - Hanuman Austak

2011-09-15T20:58:00.000-07:00

Download Hanuman Austak

Hanuman Jayanti Festival

2011-09-15T20:55:00.000-07:00

Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Hanuman, the Vanara god, widely venerated throughout India, especially in North India. It is celebrated during the month of Chaitra. In Gujarat and some other regions in North India, Ashwin Krishna Chaturdasi (the day before Diwali), popularly viewed as Hanuman Jayanti.

In Tamil Nadu and Kerala, fans celebrate Hanuman Jayanthi under Margali Masam or Margazhi months (December-January). It is observed in the Tamil month Margazhi, which is one of the most promising months in Tamil calendar. In 2011, Hanuman Jayanthi, the Tamil month Margazhi January 4 Varanasi Sankat Mochan Temple is one of the famous temples dedicated to Lord Hanuman. This festival is more important among brahmacharis, body builders and wrestlers.

Spiritual discourses are held on this day from the sunrise and Prasads is distributed only after sunset. On Saturday and Tuesday seen as a favorable day to worship Lord Hanuman. Hanumanji regarded as a symbol of strength and energy. Lord Ram remembered and prayed for this day. The devotees will visit temples and apply Tilak on the forehead sindhoor Hanuman from the body since this is considered good luck. Cultural programs are organized in most Hindu temples on this day.

Shree Hanuman Chalisa

2011-09-15T20:52:00.000-07:00

Download- Shree Hanuman Chalisa

Lord Hanuman

2011-09-15T20:47:00.000-07:00

Lord Hanuman who is a Varana, one of the Diety in Hinduism and also worshiped as most accpetable God of this Kaliyug period also . He is a desciple, a follower and a devotee of Lord Sri rama who aided in rescuing Sita from Ravana. Hanuman was born to Anjana (a vanara) in Threta Yug and also refered him as incarnation of Lord Shiva. He is renowed for his bravery,courage,selflesness,devotion and loyality. There are different stories in Ramayana, other puranas regarding the birth of Sri Hanumanji. According to them, Anjana praied to shiva and worshiped him to be his son, another story states that Anjana worshiped and got the divine child from wind-god (Vayu). Hanuman is refered Anjaneya (Anjana’s son), Vay-putra (son of Vayu). Hanuman in his child hood is a mischevious, strong,courageous and an easy-learner.

Hanuman Childhood :

One day Hanuman assuming sun as a ripe-fruit catched to eat, Indra saw this and hurted hanuman with his weapon(Vajrayudha), but later with Vayu’s requested hanuman Indra withdraw his effect and blessed him with multiple boons. Later Hanuman enlarged his body and requested Surya to accept him as a student, please by this Surya teached him all vedas and sakala(all) Sasthras and Vidhyas. Surya asked to help Surgriva(his spiritual son) as Guru-Dakshina, and became as one of the surgriva Sayna.

with Sri Rama :

Hanuman meets Lord Rama at Sugriva parvatha and also helps in finding Sita. In search of Sita hanuman recollects his own powers, enlarges his body and flies across the ocean and reaches lanka,conveys the message of rama to sita, which is beautifully described in “Sundara Kanda” a part in Ramayana which teaches the adventures of hanuman. Later hanuman also helps rama in the battle with ravana when brother lakshmana badly wounded as a rescue , he brings the whole Sanjivana Paravatha and becomes the dear and beloved one to rama.

Names of Hanumanji :

Hanumanji holds a mace(ghada) in his hand as sign of bravery and as a sign of his devotion he holds picture of sri rama and sita in his chest as the Pinnacle of devotion (bhakthi) . His names includes Maha-veera, Maruthi, Hanumantha, Anjaneya, Vayu-putra, Pavana Sutha,Pavana kumar, Bhagaranga Bali, Kesari Nandana, Anajna Putra, Sankata-Mochana (destroyer of hurdles and sorrows) . Hanuman is one of Chiranjeeva’s of aHinduism which Sitaji blessed him and listen topeople chanting Lord Rama’s name. So in Ramayana it is said that ;

“Yatra Yatra Raghunath Kirtanam Tatra Tatra Krita Mastaka Anjalim Bashpawari Pari purna lochanam Marutim Nammascha Pakshas Antakam

which means whereever rama’s name chanting there will be hnumanji crying tears with joy and remove all the sorrows and demons.

Hanumanji (Temples) :

Even though Hanumanji is a devotoee himself, because of his devotion,surrenderness, courage and bhaki towards Lord Rama has made him Chiranjeevi. It is not a wonder that in india every village consists of Ram Mandir with Sita, Lakshmana and Hanumanji. It is also a belief the wherever his Images located whether in Temple or in house will free the evil powers and provide bhakti and knowledge.Panchamukha Anjaneyaswami Temples Thiruvallur and Kumbhakonam in Tamilnadu are regarded as most famous ones.

There are so many famous temples which includes, Monkey Point, Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh India ,Sri Suchindram Temple,Sri Narasimma Swami Temple, Saakshi Hanuman Temple, Sri Vishwaroopa Anchaneya Temple in Tamilnadu, Shree Marutinandan,Shree Bal Hanuman, Shri Hanumana Sethu Mandir,near lucknow in Uttar Pradesh,Bihar Sri Mahavir mandir Temple, and in Andhra Pradesh Yellala Anjaneya Swami Temple,Sri Nettikanti Anjaneya Swami Temples etc and also in many famous temples sourrounded across india.

Hanumanji Puja :

Hamanji becomes prassana easily with just chanting the name– SRI RAMA. He is a noble hero in hinduism who symbolises the pinnacle of devotion(Bhakthi) and selfless service,provider of knowledge,courage,hope and devotion. The most famous Hanumanji ki puja is recieted by his deciplines and common man is “Hanuman Chalisa” which consits of his powers and stuti of the great devotee.

Famous Bhajan/Arrati - Shree Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram

2011-09-14T20:54:00.000-07:00

Downlaod Famous Bhajan/Arrati - Shree Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram

Ram Bhajan - Shree Ramchandra Kripalu Bhajman

2011-09-14T20:53:00.001-07:00

Download- RamShree Ramchandra Kripalu Bhajman

Lord Shri Rama Bhajan

2011-09-14T20:50:00.001-07:00

Download Bhjan-Thumak Chalat Ramchandra

Lord Shri Rama Photo

2011-09-14T20:49:00.000-07:00

Sri Rama is an Avatara of Lord Hari Lakshmana is an Avatara of Adisesha. Bharata and Satrughna are Avataras of the conch and was discus. Sita was the Avatara of Sri Lakshmi.

Hindu God Shri Rama Wallpaper

Lord Shri Ram Photo

Hindu God Shri Rama Picture

Lord Shri Ram, Laxman, Sita and Hunuma Wallpaper

God Shri Ram Wallpaper

God Shri Ram, Laxman, Sita and Hanumaji Photo

Shri Ram and Laxman Picture

God Shri Ram and Sita Marriage Photo

Shri Ram, Laxman, Sita and Bharat Wallpaper

Hindu God Shri Ram, Laxman, Sita Photo

God Shri Ram Picture

God Shri Ram Snaps

Lord Shriramji Wallpaper

Shri Ram and Sita Picture

Shri Ram Big Wallpaper

Shri Ramji Wallpapers and Photo

God Shree Ram Wallpaper

Shri Ram Wallpaper

Hindu Lord Shri Ram Wallpaper

Shri Ramji Wallpaper and Snaps

Shri Ram and Hunam Meet Picture

Hindu God Shree Rama Picture

Sri Ram, Laxman and Sita Picture

Jai Shree Ram Bhajan

2011-09-14T20:47:00.001-07:00

Download Bhjan- Bhajman Ram Charan Sukhdai

Ram Bhajan Lyrics - Jhoolat Ram Paalne Sohe

2011-09-14T20:43:00.000-07:00

Download Ram Bhajan-Jhoolat Ram Paalne Sohe

Rama Bhajans - Dev Dusro Kaun Deen Ko Dayalu

2011-09-14T20:41:00.001-07:00

Download Bhajn- Dev Dusro Kaun Deen Ko Dayalu

Rama Bhajans - Ram Preeti Ki Reeti Aap Neeke

2011-09-14T20:38:00.000-07:00

Download Bhajan_-Ram Preeti Ki Reeti Aap Neeke

Ram Bhajans -Paawan Prem Ram Charan Kamal

2011-09-14T20:33:00.000-07:00

Download Ram Bhajan- Paawan Prem Ram Charan Kamal

Chronology of the life of Shirdi Sai Baba

2011-09-14T20:28:00.000-07:00

CHRONOLOGICAL LIST OF EVENTS (Episodes) CONCERNING SHRI SAI BABA

1835
Sai Baba was born in very early hours of September 27 or 28, 1835 to a poor Hindu couple, Gangabhavadya and Devagiriamma. The newborn infant is left in the woods, abandoned. The infant is immediately discovered and adopted by a childless Muslim fakir and his wife.

1838
Sai Baba lives with the Muslim couple for 4 years. Meanwhile the fakir dies.. The wife is left to tend the child alone. Even as a small child Baba stirs up sentiments between the Hindu and Muslim community by worshiping Allah in Hindu temples, and Hindu gods in the mosque. In fear of increased problems by a sole widow, Baba is handed over for care with a local mendicant and story-teller, Venkusa.

1839-51
Sai Baba spent 12 years with his Guru. The name of his Guru was Gopal Rao Deshmukh (Venkusa, also known as Venkavadhuta) ) of Selu. Some say " Baba practiced penance at the tomb of His Guru in the cellar under the Neem Tree at Shirdi". Arrival of Devidas at Shirdi (Aged 10-11 years) took place in 1846. When he enquired, BABA mentioned the name of his GURU as Venkusa implying VISHNU (Parvardigar).

1851
Sai Baba first appeared at Shirdi and stays in the village for two months. He is noted to reside day and night under a Neem Tree (aged about 16 Years) which he claims is growing over the tomb of his old guru. After two months Baba disappeared to an unknown place.

ca. 1855-1857
Sai Baba travels about from place to place and finally ends up in Dhoopkheda (or Dhoop) in Aurangabad District. There he ends up attending the marriage of Chandu Patel's son in 1858.

1858
Sai Baba returns to Shirdi along with the marriage-party of Chand Patil and remained at Shirdi for ever till His Samadhi. A widowed Deputy Collector and Settlement Officer by name H.V. Sathe (Hari Vinayaka Sathe) comes to Shirdi on the death of his wife. Baba takes great fondness to Sathe. Sathe was the first to set up apartments at Shirdi for temporary visitors. Baba regarded Sathe as his right hand in regard to all matters. Because Baba was keeping Sathe close to him and relying on him for everything, the residents of Shirdi grew jealous towards him.

1865
Saint Manik Prabhu of Homanabad in Bidar District of Karnataka passed away in 1878, Chaitra Vadya 14. H. H. Akkalkot Swami left His mortal coil at Akkalkot in Solapur District of Maharashtra. (First appeared in 1835). It is reported that three of them (Manik Prabhu, Swami Samartha and SAIBABA) met at Humanabad.

1885
Saint Anandnath (aged 95 years) of Yewala Math and a disciple of Akkalkot Swami visited Shirdi and seeing Sai Baba exclaimed, "This is a precious real diamond."

1886, April 16
Mahasamadhi of Shri Ramkrishna Paramahansa of Bengal 1886, Margashirsh 15 Sai Baba got rid of an attack of asthma, by going into samadhi for 72 Hrs.

1887
Manthrapragada Ramalaksmhi Devi, and my father, Venkata Narasimha Raoâ€”who were childless in spite of effortsâ€”visited their Guru, Shirdi Sai Baba, in 1887 and prayed to him for a child. As the fruit of Shirdi Sai Baba's grace, I was born to them on August 8, 1888. Shirdi Sai Baba himself gave me my name, Shringeri Sharada Devi. As I am of fair complexion, he used to lovingly call me Gori.

1889
Abdullah arrived at Shirdi from Nanded (in West Khandesh near Jalgaon and Amalner).

1892 (approx)
Nanasaheb Chandorkar arrived at Shirdi for the first time after being invited by BABA many a time showing his intimate relations with NANA since his many previous births.

1894 (approx)
Das Ganu (Ganesh Dattatreya Sahasrabuddhe) accompanied Nanasaheb Chandorkar to Shirdi for the first time.

1896
Celebration of 'Urus' ( fair) started at Shirdi owing to the efforts of Gopalrao Gund, a Circle Inspector of Kopargaon.

1898
Sai Baba was seen sleeping on a narrow plank suspended with old rags about 7 or 8 feet above ground with lighted lamps placed on the plank.
(Uknown year) About this time, the parents of Shyam came to Shirdi with the two-year old child named Mohan Shyam. A small school for children were adjoining Baba's room. Shyam used to watch Baba at nights through the ventilator. Baba used to sleep on an eighteen-inch wide plank suspended suspended with old rags about 7 or 8 feet above ground with lighted lamps placed on the plank. Shyam was apprehensive that Baba might fall from his lofty but narrow perch during sleep. Shyam prayed to stay near Baba and serve him for his remaining days.

1899-1900
Nanasaheb Chandorkar visited Shirdi with his sister-in-law's husband, Shri Biniwale. Baba scolded Nanasaheb for dissuading Biniwale, a devotee of Shri Dattatmya from visiting Datta Temple on the bank of Godavari River to avoid delay in reaching Shirdi.

1900-1902
Sai Baba like a learned Pandit explained Geeta to Nanasaheb Chandorkar, who believed that BABA was not well versed with Sanskrit language of Pandits (learned people).

1903
Das Ganu left Govt. service and as per Baba's instructions settled at Nanded and started performing keertans and writing life histories of recent saints.

1903
Das Ganu's book 'Sant Kathamrit' was published. (Ch. 57 about Sai Baba's advice to Nanasaheb Chandorkar).

1904, April
Rao Bahadur H. V. Sathe first arrived at Shirdi. (Aged 49 years).

1904-1905
Nanasaheb Chandorkar's pregnant daughter Mainatai at Jamner in Jalgaon District had severe pains of delivery. Sai baba sent Udi and Arati with Ramgir Gosavi from Shirdi and she had a safe delivery. Sai Baba even took the form of tonga's Rajput driver to make Ramgir reach Jamner safe and on time.

1906
Das Ganu's book 'Bhakta-Leelamrit' was published. (Chs.. 31, 32 and 33 about Sai Baba).

1906
Nanasaheb Chandorkar was transferred as Mamlatdar from Nandurbar to Pandharpur. On the way, he stopped at Shird! with his family and started requesting Baba to accompany them to Pandharpur and stay there permanently with them. The devotees then told Nanasaheb about the singing of bhajan just finished in which Baba's mood of going to Pandharpur and staying there for ever was expressed. The text of the song was,'I want to go and stay at Pandharpur.'

1906
Shivamma Thayee's uncle meets Baba for the first time, while Baba is visiting Vellakinaru in Coimbatore. Baba told Shivamma's uncle, 'She is the only girl in the whole lot who will be a highly elevated soul.' Baba then slowly chanted the Gayatri Mantra to Shivamma.

1907
Radhakrishna Mai (Sunderabai Kshirsagar) arrived at Shirdi.(Young good-looking widow aged 25 years). She was blessed by BABA who used to send a part of food collected as (Bhiksha) to her.

1908
Sathe Wada was constructed.

1908 Ekadashi
Kashirarn Shimpi died. (Chaitra Shuddha 11). BABA saved his life in a mysterious way when he was assaulted by Thieves in a jungle.

1908
Pundalikrao of Nanded met Shri Vasudevananda Saraswati. (Tembe Swami) at Rajahmundry on banks of Godavari River in Andhra Pradesh and Swami gave a coconut to be presented to Sai Baba. BABA showed cognizance of Swamiji's gilt and showed his oneness with Swami by describing him as his brother (Bhau).

1908
Shri Tatyasaheb Noolkar, (Aged 45 years) the Sub-judge of Pandharpur first arrived at Shirdi in 1908. Gurupournima festival was prompted by Baba for Dada Kelkar, Tatyasaheb Noolkar, Madhavrao Deshpande and others.

1909
Saibaba threw an ochre garment on Balasaheb Bhate, Mamlatdar of Kopargaon, and an atheist, on his very first visit and Balasaheb lost complete interest in worldly matters. He retired prematurely from service and settled down at Shirdi permanently.

1909
Bapusaheb (Sakharam Hari) Jog on retirement from Govt. service came to stay at Shirdi permanently accompanied by his wife.

1909
Bhimaji Patil of Narayangaon (Pune District) came to Shirdi for getting his chronic tuberculosis at the last stage and was cured by Baba's blessings.

1909, Nov 2
Hari Sitaram alias Kakasaheb Dixit (Aged 45 years), a prominent solicitor and M.L.C. first arrived at Shirdi. Baba used to call him affectionately Langda Kaka and removed fear complex from his mind. Kaka Dixit was known for his obedience to Baba's orders.

1909, Dec 10
Devotees began to offer regular worship to Baba in the Chavadi, where He slept on alternate days.

1909, Dec 25
Baba gave darshan in the form of Sri Rama to a doctor, devotee of Sri Rama who came with a Mamlatdar.

1910
Baba's 'Handi' ritual, occasionally cooking food Himself in a big copper pot and distributing it to devotees and poor people without discrimination. This practice continued till this year. After wards owing to Das Ganu's keertans (musical recitals praising Baba), Baba's fame spread far and wide and devotees started flocking together in large numbers offering large quantities of food as 'naivedya' and thus there was no need of 'Handi.

1910
Ramachandra Atmaram alias Babasaheb Tarkhad from Bandra (Bombay) first visited Shirdi.

1910
Rao Bahadur Moreshwar W. Pradhan of Santacruz (Bombay) first visited Shirdi.

1910
Govind Raghunath alias Annasaheb Dabholkar (Aged 51 years), the author of Shri Sai Satcharita (Marathi), had his first darshan of Sai Baba and received significant and prophetic title of 'Hemadpant. Baba gave him his blessings and inspired him to write SAI SATCHARITA - a religious scripture describing BABA's life story and his divine play (leela) as monumental as GURU CHARITRA- the old monumental POTHI - a poetic religious scripture inspiring worship to GURU, NARASINHA SARASWATI.

1910
Balkrishna Vishwanath alias Balasaheb Deo (Dahanu Mamlatdar) first visited Shirdi prompted by Nanasaheb Chandorkar. Deo used to describe him as Baba's child - with a full sense of surrender.

1910,
Bhadrapad Shuddha 5H. H. Gajanan Maharaj of Shegaon (Buldhana District of Maharashtra) left His mortal coil. (First appeared in 1878). At that very time at Shirdi, Sai Baba grieved profusely and said, "Hallo! My Gajanan is gone. I must take bath again in reverance to the Great Soul."

1910
Shrimant Gopalrao Mukund alias Bapu saheb Butty of Nagpur, (a rich statesman) started staying permanently at Shirdi.

1910
Harishchandra Pitale's son suffering from epilepsy, was cured by Baba's mere glance at him. Baba gave Pitale three rupees and reminded him of two rupees earlier received by him from Swami Samarth of Akkalkot and thus showed his oneness with all the other SAINTS (Vibhutis).

1910, Ashwin Vady13
Sai Baba pushed his arm into the brightly burning Dhuni to save a blacksmith's child. 'The arm was scorched and burnt. Nanasaheb came from Bombay with Dr. Parmananda but Baba did not allow the doctor to treat him.Bhagoji Shinde's service of massaging the arm with ghee and bandaging it continued till Baba's Samadhi. This episode is in testimony to BABA's cosmic existence- HIS super consciousness.

1910 Dec 5
Hon'ble Mr. Ganesh Shrikrishna alias Dadasaheb Khaparde of Amraoti (Maharashtra) first visited Shirdi. (Refused on 10 Dec. 1910) Mr.Babasaheb Khaprde was an ardent devotee of BABA and his efforts were instrumental in bringing Loka Manya Tilak- (a great national leader -Khapurde's contemparary) to Shirdi for Baba's darshan and blessings in his movement for India's freedom from the British Rule.

1910, Dec10
Foundation-stone of Dixit Wada laid with Baba's permission.

1910, Christmas
Lala Lakhamichand of Santacruz (Bombay) came to Shirdi. Baba loved him very much and affectionately accepted his petty gifts given with love.

1910
Megha returns to Shirdi and stays till his death. In Baba's company he underwent mysterious experiences which transformed Megha from an athiest to an ardent devotee of Baba and spent his life in the service of Sai -Shiva. He regarded Baba as Shiva-Shankar (Lord Shiva-Shankar -the welfare Doer).

1911
Madrasi Sanyasi Vijayanand, while on a pilgrimage to Manas Sarovar, haulted at Shirdi and breathed his last while reading 'Bhagawat' (a religious script written by Saint Eknath) for 3 days on Baba's advice.

1911, March
Tatyasaheb Nulkar (Aged 48), the Sub-judge of Pandharpur breathed, his last at Shirdi . Baba showed HIS oneness with Tatya Nulkar and described him as a pure soul and expressed HIS grief at Nulkars demise.

After Tatyasaheb Nulkar passed away, Megha took over the regular daily worship of Baba in the Dwarakamai. (He used to stand on one leg while performing the Arati). Tatyasaheb Nulkar relinquished everything and stayed at Shirdi in Baba's company till his demise Baba bestowed him with the unique experiences in self realization. Baba advised him and Mr Shyama Deshpande to perform Guru worship (Pooja).

1911
Ram-Navami Festival was started at Shirdi owing to the efforts of Shri Bhishma and Kaka Mahajani.

1911, Ram-Navami
Construction of Dixit Wada was completed and was inhabited with due rites.

1911
Extension and roofing of the open space in front of the Dwarakamai was carried out by Kakasaheb Dixit. Baba got enraged and tried to shake and uproot a pole. Then removing Tatya Patil's pugree, struck a match, set the pugree on fire and threw it in a pit along with one rupee as if an auspicious offering to avert evil. Baba never liked renovation of his dwelling place viz. Dwarkamai (the masjid) and opposed any such effort by the devotees.

1911
Somdav Swami alias Haridwar Swami visited Shirdi.

1911, June 27
Kashinath Govind Upaswii (aged 41 years) first visited Shirdi and returned again on 6 July. Baba ordered him to stay for 4 years in the Khandoba Temple.

1911, Dec
Kashinath Upasani composed the famous 'Shri Sainath Mahimna Stotra (hymn) in Sanskrit. (Now being recited daily during Arati at Shirdi).

1911, Dec
Bubonic plague raged at Shirdi (Lasted upto March 15 next year) Baba however saved lives of plague inflicted devotees by taking upon himself i.e.. on his body the malody.

1911, Dec
Baba's grinding of wheat in the hand-mill. It was not wheat that was ground but plague or cholera itself was ground to pieces and cast out of village. Seeing this Annasaheb Dabholkar (Hemadpant) was inspired to write 'Shri Sai Satcharita.'

1911, Dec5
Dadasaheb Khaparde of Amraoti arrived at Shirdi again with family and stayed for 3 months. Shri Krishna Bhishma the author of Arati book 'Sagunopasana' accompanied him. Dadasaheb Khaparde wrote diary (daily record of his stay at Shirdi in Baba's company).

1911, Dec 11
Waman Rao Patel (Aged 22 years) (Later Swami Sai Sharanananda) first arrived at Shirdi.

1911, Dec 13
Chandrabhan Shet Marwadi, uncle of Khushalchand of Rahata.. expired.

1911, Dec 16
Dr. Capt. Hate first visited Shirdi (who had just appeared at LCPS examination.) Baba sent him a messege in the dream saying, 'have you forgotten me?'.

1911, Dec 19
Sai Baba's great devotee and a great saint of Nath-panth order, Shri Rama Maruti visited Shirdi. (Stayed for 34 days.) '. Ram Maruti offered 'Naivedya' to Baba and Baba very affectionately took a part of it (SWEET SANJA).

1911-12
Sagun Meru Naik arrived at Shirdi at the age of 23 and on Baba's advice settled permanently running a small restaurant for the devotees visiting Shirdi.

1912, Jan
Dadasaheb Khaparde's youngest son Balwant was cured of bubonic plague by Baba by taking the disease on himself.

1912, Jan 3
Megha fed some Brahmins on completion of his Gayatri Punascharana (a religious ritual). Dadasaheb Khaparde attended it at Sathe Wada.

1912, Jan 19
Megha died at Shirdi at about 4 A.M. Baba lamented loudly and followed the funeral procession for some distance. Baba showered flowers on Megha's body.

1912, Jan 20
Bapusaheb Jog started performing Baba's Pooja and Arati after Megha's death.He continued this till Baba's Samadhi and even some years afterwards until he shifted to Sakuri and joined Upasani Maharaj there.

1912
Transformation of Dwarakamai (the masjid) started. Pits were patched up and the stone slabs fixed on the floor. Baba gave up sack-cloth seat and started using cushion scat and boister in deference to devotees' wishes.

1912 Jan
Ganapatrao, father of Tatya Kote Patil passed away. Tatya Patil stopped sleeping in the Dwarakamai with Baba.

1912, Feb 25
Madhavrao Deshpande (Shama) left Shirdi to attend Kakasaheb Dixit's son's thread-ceremony at Nagpur and Nanasaheb Chandorkar's son's wedding at Gwalior. From there accompanied by Appa Kote, he went on a pilgrimage to Mathura, Prayag, Ayodhya, Kashi and Gaya. At Gaya Madhavrao saw Baba's picture at the priest's house and was reminded of Baba's words, "After visiting Kashi and Prayag I would be reaching the religious place ahead of Shama."

1912, Mar 15
Dadasaheb Khaparde returned to Amraoti. Mrs. Laxmibai Khaparde stayed behind.

1912, Ram-navami
Dada Maharaj Satarkar, known as 'Modern Tukaram', was invited to perform Ram-navami Kirtan.When he bowed down in obeisance, Baba said, "I know this man since last 4 years". Bala Buva had never met Sai Baba before but 4 years ago at Bombay, he had prostrated before Baba's picture. Thus Baba proved to His devotees that seeing His picture was equivalent to seeing Him in person.

1912, April
First visit of Balaram Dhurandhar along with his brothers. Before they arrived Baba had expressed, "Today many of my Durbar people are coming". Baba offered Balaram Chillim to smoke and since then his 6 year old asthma was cured for ever.

1912, Shravan 15
Guru-sthan padukas were installed under the Neem Tree at Shirdi.

1913.
First visit of Mahadev Rao Sapatnekar of Akkalkot accompanied by his younger brother Pandit Rao. When Mahadev Rao prostrated before Baba, Baba shouted 'Chal hat' (Get away) in the protest of absence of faith in Saptnekar's mind and his prejudice for Baba.

1913
Baba gave at Dwarakamai darshan of himself as Vitthal and Rakhumai of Pandharpur to the wife and mother of R. B. Purandare of Bandra.

1913, Ram-Navaimi
Bala Buva Satarkar performed Ram-Navami Kirtan at Shirdi and Baba gave him a gift of Rs.150/- for the Kirtan. These coins were collected in a dish (Thali) after Baba's prayer (Aarti). Baba poured the whole dish in Satarkars bag (zoli)

1913, May
Wamanrao Patel (Aged 24 - 25 Years.) (Swami Sai Sharanananda ji) visited Shirdi again and this time stayed for 11 months.

1913
Rao Bahadur Sathe got a son by Baba's Grace at the age of 57 years.

1914
Sapatnekar of Akkalkot arrived at Shirdi again with wife and returned being blessed for begetting a son.

1914, Feb 14
Mr.B.V. Deo (Memlatdar of Dahanu in Thane Distict) was charged and reprimanded by Baba for stealing His rag and after lot of abusing and scolding was favoured with instruction to read Dnyaneshawari regularly every day as per Deo's desire. This episode is an example of how Baba sometimes displayed his transcendental powers to read devotees mental inclinations even without formal oral communication.

1914, Feb 22
A Sadhak of Yoga (Swami Ram Baba) visited Shirdi and seeing Baba eating bread with onion got suspicious and disappointed. However Baba proved His power of omniscience by reading his mind and the Sadhak returned highly satisfied and blessed.

1914, April 2
Before the year was over, Baba appeared to Deo in a dream and inquired if he understood Dnyaneshwari properly. Deo said 'No' and added that without Baba's Grace it will not be understood. Then Baba explained to Deo how to read it slowly (and without making haste) with full concentration for knowing the subtle meaning between the lines (Bodha -Knowledge)

1914, Ram-Navami
Das Ganu was ordained by Baba to perform Ram-Navami Kirtan at Shirdi every year.

1914, Shravan
H. H. Shri Vasudevananda Saraswati (Aged 80 years) (Tembe Swami) left His mundane body at Garudeshwar on the banks of River Nannada in Gujarat.

1914. July 15
Kashinath Upasani left Shird! (total stay 3 years, 19 days) and proceeded towards Nagpur, Khadakpur etc.

1915, Dec
Sai Baba suffered from asthma and was very weak. Yet He climbed over Radhakrishna Mai's roof with a ladder. Paid Rs. 2/- to the person bringing and placing the ladder. Honouring a worker for his work, Baba showed how Dignity of labour should be maintained.

1915, Dec
Balakram Mankar passed away at Shirdi.

1915, Dec
Mrs Tarkhad (wife of Babasaheb Tarkhad of Bandra) sent a pedha (made of milk and sugar) which was already offered as naivedya and that too with Balakram's son Govindji who was in mourning. Yet Baba swollowed it with great eagerness and love.

1915, Dec 30
Construction work of Butty's Wada was in progress. Baba occasionally used to go at this place to see the progress of this work and gave instructions.

1916
Sai Baba made Das Ganu to do 'Nam-saptah and Kirtan' at Shirdi for a week.

1916
Radhakrishna Mai (Aged 35 years) passed away. Baba used to bless her by sending a portion of food collected by him by way of Bhiksha.

1916.
Arrival of a Madrasi Bhajani Mela (Party of the Ramdasi Order). Baba gave darshan to the chief's wife in the form of her beloved diety Shri Rama. The chief also got a dream and his attitude towards Baba was completely changed.

1916
Nephew of Dr. Mulky from Malegaon (District Nasik), suffering from tubercular bone-abcess, was fully cured by Sai Baba's Udi and his loving glance. The doctor himself visited Shirdi afterwards and became a staunch devotee of Shri Sai Baba realising that Baba's service is to be performed not only for the sake of money or other mundane things but for the welfare of the disabled, helpless and downtrodden.

1916
Annasaheb Dabholkar (Hemadpant) retired from Govt. service. On Guru Poumima Day while at Shirdi, Anna Chinchanikar pleaded before Baba for getting some other appointment for Hemadpant as his pension was quite insufficient and his family was growing. Baba assured him about his source of income for livelyhood after retirement.

1916, Vijaya Dashami
When in the evening Shirdi residents were returning from 'Simollanghan' ceremony (crossing of the border or limits of the kingdom village), Baba suddenly got into wild rage and taking off His head-dress, kafni and langota (loin cloth) etc., tore them into pieces and threw them in the burning Dhuni before Him. The fire in the Dhuni became brighter and Baba stood there stark naked. Later when cooled down and dressed again Baba said, "This is My Simollanghan" and thus hinted at His departure from this world soon on Dassehra Day. This Darshan provided an enlightenment that Baba's body cannot be described as Hindu or Muslim or of any cast or belonging to any religion in vogue.

1916
Ramchandra Dada Patil became seriously ill. One night. appearing before him, Baba told him that he would recover soon but Tatya Patil will die on Vijaya Dashami Day in 1918. Thus by substituting Tatya's name for HIS, Baba foretold Tatya's passing away. However, Baba sacrificed his body to save devotees life by saying 'instead of him another person will go?'.

1916
Baba averted Gopal Narayan Ambadekar's effort of suicide by prompting him to read an appropriate incident from Akkalkot Swami's Chaiitra (religious scripture) and avoided greatest sin in his devotees life.

1917
Shyam, the faithful servant of Baba falls at Baba's feet and dies, merging in Baba.

1917
Baba tells Shringeri Sharada Devi, "Gori, I will appear in Andhra [Pradesh] with the same name of Sai Baba but in another Avathar . Then again, you will come to me. I will keep you with me and give you joy."

1917
Baba names a young girl Shivamma Thayee and proclaims that she will be a saint.

1917
Haribhau Karnik of Dahanu (District Thane) wished to offerd. one more rupee to Baba while leaving Shirdi, but could not do so. On the way at Nasik, in the Kala Rama Temple another saint Narasing Maharaj demanded one rupee from him. Karnik gave it willingly thinking that Baba was demanding the rupee he wanted to offer at Shirdi. Baba fulfilled in HIS many mysterious ways devotees' desire to offer dakshina through all the media.

1917
Sai Baba appeared at Thane (North of Bombay) to inquire the well-being of Appasaheb Kulkarni's wife and children when he was away on tour. When Appasaheb returned Baba not only fulfilled his desire of offering Rs.10 as Dakshina but also favoured him by returning nine rupees consecrated by His touch. These nine rupees are the symbol of nine bhakti services done to HIM.

1917
Upasani Maharaj (Aged 47 years) made Sakuri (near Rahata) his permanent residence.

1918
Rao Bahadur Moreshwar Pradhan purchased Lendi Baug and later presented it to Shirdi Sansthan'. Baba himself planted some trees at the Lendi Baug.

1918, April 1
At Vile Parle (East) (now suburb of Bombay) on Hanuman Road, Narayan Mahadev Thosar's residence (later known as Narayan Ashram) was built a Hanuman Temple. On the day it was consecrated, Baba paid Rs. 25 to a Brahmin named Waze and made him perform Shri Satya-narayan Pooja.

1918
Prof. G. G. Narke, son-in-law of Butty got a permanent job by Baba's Grace as Professor in the Engineering College at Pune. Baba always remebered him by saying 'where has he (Narke) gone? Baba gave him a begging bag (zoli) for collecting food -an exercise in cultivating humility and eliminating ego.

1918, August
Baba offered Hemadpant a glass of butter-milk and said, "Drink it all, you won't get such opportunity again suggesting that time for his Samadhi has arrived.

1918, Sep 9
Das Ganu wrote 'Shri Sai Stavan Manjaril at Maheshwar (Madhya Pradesh) on the banks of River Narmada.

1918, Sept 28
Nath Panthi saint Rama-Maruti of Kalyan passed away.

1918, Sept 28
Sai Baba had a slight attack of fever which lasted for 3-4 days. Since then Baba abstained from food and day by day His weakness increased.

1918, Oct 1
Baba asked a Brahmin devotee by the name Waze to read 'Raum- Vijay' (by Sridhar Swami) and listened to it for 14 days.

1918,Oct 8
A tiger met its death at the feet and presence of Sai Baba and was emancipated.

1918, Oct 15, Tuesday
On Vijaya Dashmi, Sai Baba left his mortal coil at about 2-30 p.m. Few minutes before He gave Rs. 9/- as prasad to Laxmi Shinde. These nine coins represent nine dimensional devotion to GOD.

1918, Oct 16
WednesdayEarly morning Baba appeared to Das Ganu at Pandharpur, in dream and said, "The Dwaraka mai has collapsed and all the oilmen and grocers have troubled Me a lot. So I am leaving the place. Go there quickly and cover My body copiously with flowers".

1918, Oct 16
Wednesday in the evening Baba's body was taken in procession through the Shirdi village and then interred in Butty Wada with due formalities.

1918, Oct 27
On the 13th day Baba's devotees from all over gathered and funeral rites were performed by Balasaheb Bhate with a feast (Bhandara) to Brahmins and poor. Later Upasani accompanied by Bapusaheb Jog went to Prayag (Allahabad) and performed all the remaining obsequies on the banks of River Ganges.

Source: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabalist/message/14737

Aayi hai Palki Sai Baba ki

2011-09-14T20:26:00.000-07:00

Lord Shiva Bhjan

2011-09-14T06:24:00.000-07:00

Chal Kavriya, Chal Kavriya

E Shambu Baba Mere Bhole Naath

Hey Bhole Shankar Padharo

Jyoti Lingaro Ka Dhayan Karo

Milta Hai Saccha Sukh

Prabhu Mere Man Ko Banade Shivala

Saare Gaon Se Dhoodh Mangakar

Shiv Shankar Beda Par Karo

Shivnath Teri Mahima Jab Teen Lok Gayaee

Subaha Subaha Le Shiv Ka Naam

Songs of Krishna

2011-09-14T06:23:00.000-07:00

Kanha Re O Kanha

Govinda Gopala

Nandlala Krishna Murari

Maiyaa Yashoda

Tere Naam Ki Dhun Laagi

Pag Mein Ghungroo Baandh Ke

Man Mathura Tan Vrindavan

Jai Jai Ram Ramaiya, Krishna Kanhaiya

Hari Om Tatsat

Hari Gun Gaowe

Best Bhajans Hanuman

2011-09-14T06:21:00.000-07:00

Shree Hanuman Chalisa

Jiske Man Main Base Shreeramji

Shree Hanuman Aarti

Bolo Sada Jaikar Pawansut Mahabali Ki

Teri Karoona Se Sabki Hai Wipda Tali

Meri Raksha Karo Bajrangbali

Hanumanji Hanumanji Daya Bhakton Pe

Ramdoot Baldham Ki Pawaputra Birvaan Ki

Karne Vandan Charno Mein Bajrangi

Jai Jai Jai Hanuman Ki

Ganesha MP3 Downloads

2011-09-14T06:17:00.000-07:00

Ganesha Aarti - Jai Ganesh, Jai Ganesh

Ganesha Aarti - Jai Ganesh, Jai Ganesh (Duet)

Jai Ganesh, Jai Ganesh - Text & Audio

Sukh Karta Dukh Harta - Ganesha Bhajan

Om Gan Ganpatey Namoha Namha - Ganesha Bhajan

Shri Ganesha, Jaya Ganesha

Ganesha Pancharatnam - Hymn

Ganapati Prarthana - Ganesha Prayer

Vakratunda Mahakaye - Mantra Chant

Ganesha Bhajans Album by Music Today

Rama Bhajans

2011-09-14T06:05:00.000-07:00

Paawan Prem Ram Charan Kamal

Ram Preeti Ki Reeti Aap Neeke

Dev Dusro Kaun Deen Ko Dayalu

Jhoolat Ram Paalne Sohe

Bhajman Ram Charan Sukhdai

Thumak Chalat Ramchandra

Kali Naam Kaam Taru Ram Ko

Shree Ramchandra Kripalu Bhajman

Baithi Sagun Manavati Mata

Shree Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram

Bhagwan Bhajan

2011-09-14T06:04:00.000-07:00

Bhajan means a devotional song, sung with Bhakti (loving devotion). It is the act by which we feel closer to our true self (i.e. atman), and to God(i.e. param atman).

Bhagwan is a Hindi word, which means God. Some people get confused and think there are many Gods in Hinduism. Hinduism believes in only one God, who is worshiped in many forms (Hindi word - Avtar). Every human being is different and thus everyone should be allowed to connect to God in a way suitable to him/her. People may take different routes, but destination is same. The bottom-line is - Choose the path, you prefer; Worship Him the way, you like. Listen to your soul and connect to God.

Trust God completely and accept everything in life as God's gift. Don't judge anything, love everybody, always follow the truth and never worry about anything because you believe that God will take care of you and He can do it better than you.

Bhagwan Shri Ganesh, Ram, Krishna, Hanuman, Shiv Shankar, Maa Durga, Narayan, Balaji are the most popular and worshiped forms of God in India.

Shri Sai Khichdi Songs

2011-09-13T20:57:00.000-07:00

Sai Reham Nazar Karna

2011-09-13T20:53:00.000-07:00

Shirdi Sai Baba Photos, Shirdi Sai Baba Background Pictures

2011-09-13T20:51:00.000-07:00

Sai Baba of Shirdi or Shirdi Sai Baba (c. September 27, 1838 - October 15, 1918), born under an unknown name, was an Indian guru and fakir. Sai Baba lived in a mosque, was buried in a Hindu temple. Saibaba of Shirdi lived an extremely simple and austere life, sleeping on the floor of temple and later taking a ruined mosque as his shelter. Shri Saibaba has millions of devotees in India and abroad. Shirdi, the obscure village in Maharashtra has become a pilgrimage destination much as Bethlehem, Jerusalem or Varanasi. This article is about the "Shirdi" Sai Baba, an Indian religious figure who lived sai-baba-shirdifrom the mid-19th to the early 20th century.

Shri Sai Chalisa

2011-09-13T20:49:00.000-07:00

Shri Sai Bhajans

2011-09-13T20:46:00.000-07:00

In this bhajan singer say that they all are going to Shirdi at Lotus Feet of Lord Sai Baba.

Om Sai Ram,Anop Jalota Bhajan

2011-09-13T20:44:00.000-07:00

This bhajan is sung by Anop Jalota from the album "Sumiro Om Sai Ram"

Download Link:

Tu Hi Bigade, Tu Hi Saware.mp3

Sai Bhajan

2011-09-13T04:03:00.000-07:00

AaratiSaibaba Download	Ovalu Aarati Download	Aakara Vachan Download
ShirdiMaze Download	Arati Dnyanraja Download	Ghoshana/Lalkar Download
GhalinLotangan Download	Aarati Tukarama Download	Jap1 Download
Aisa Ae Ba Download	Aata Swami Download	Sai Mantra BySaikaka Download
Sada SatvRupam Download	Pahe Prasadachi Wat Download	Jay Jay Sairam By Jagajit Sing Download
RusuMam Download	Paula Prasad Download	Lendi Pushpalu Download
MantraPushapanjali Download		Om Sai Download
KarCharan Download		Omkar Sadhana Download
		Om Shri Sainathay Download

Bhajns

2011-09-13T03:53:00.000-07:00

Utha-Utha Download	Jodoniya Download	GheuniPancharati Download
Ghan_Shyam Download	UthaPanduranga Download	AratiSaibaba Download
Om-Jay-Jagadish Hare Download	Utha-Utha Shri Sainath Download	JayDev Download
	GheuniPancharati Download	GhalinLotangan Download
	Kakad Arati Download	Ananta Download
	Bhaktachiya Download	Aisa A Ba Download
	UthaSadhuSant Download	Sada Satv Rupam Download
	PrabhatSamayee Download	Pushpanjali Download
	SaiRahemNajar Download	KarCharan Download
	RahemNajarKaro Download
	Tuja Kay Download
	ShriSatguru Download

Sai Bhajans

2011-09-13T03:47:00.000-07:00

Bhajans by Lata Mangeshkar (approx. 50 Min) at 28.8 Kbps
Bhajans by Anup Jaolota (approx. 60 Min) at Sure Stream Stereo
Bhajans by Manhar Udhas (approx. 60 Min) at Sure Stream Stereo

SHRI SAI BABA BHAJANS

2011-09-13T03:43:00.000-07:00

Sai Bhajans by Anup Jaolota at Sure Stream Stereo
Sai Bhajans by Manhar Udhas at Sure Stream Stereo
Sai Mahima at 28.8 Kbps
Sai Ke 108 Naamavali at 28.8 Kbps
Sai Dhun at 28.8 Kpbs
Tu Hai Ik Pinjare Ka Pancchi at 28.8 Kbps
Shirdi Ko Jaane Waale at 28.8 Kpbs
Tu Hai Hamara at 28.8 Kpbs
Tujh Ko Sab Kuchh Mila at 28.8 Kpbs
Matka Pyas Bujhaaye Kaise at 28.8 Kpbs
Jab Jab Boloun Sai Om at 28.8 Kpbs
Sai Se Man at 28.8 Kpbs
Shirdiwale Sai Baba at 28.8 Kbps
Sai Bhola Bhandari at 28.8 Kbps
Jaago Sai Mohan Pyare at 28.8 Kbps
O Sai Baba Mere at 28.8 Kbps
Chali Sai Baba Ki Palki at 28.8 Kbps
Sai Deva Sai Deva at 28.8 Kbps
Sunte Hain Jo Aaya Kabhi at 28.8 Kbps
Sai Kare Man Prarthana at 28.8 Kbps
Mere Man Ke Mandir Ko at 28.8 Kbps
Sai Japo Sai Japo at 28.8 Kbps
Amrit Se Man Ka Kalash Bharo at 28.8 Kbps
Nahin Kamna Mujhe Kisiki at 28.8 Kbps
Sai Sai Sai Ram at 28.8 Kbps
Mand Mand Baba Muskaye at 28.8 Kbps
Jab Bhi Mujhko Yaad Karoge at 28.8 Kbps
Japo Mana Sai Ka Naam at 28.8 Kbps
Jo Mango Mil Jayega at 28.8 Kbps
Naam Simar Sai Ka at 28.8 Kbps
Everybody Loves Sai at 28.8 Kbps
Sai Poojan Karne at 28.8 Kbps
Sun Lo Saibaba at 28.8 Kbps
Daya Ki Chadar at 28.8 Kbps
Jag Hai Paraya at 28.8 Kbps
Dwarka Mai Mein at 28.8 Kbps
Pal Pal Pooja at 28.8 Kbps
Humne Jana Kahan at 28.8 Kbps

Sai Arpan

2011-09-13T03:30:00.000-07:00

Song Title	Time	Singers
Mere Khuda Tu Hi Bata	6:48	Manhar Udhas
Dheeraj Rakh Wo Rehmat Ki Barkha	5:50	Manhar Udhas
Jab Se Pakde Charan Sai Ke	5:44	Manhar Udhas
Roke Na Hamein Sansar,Hamein Sai Ne B...	4:41	Manhar Udhas
Main Hoon Majboor,Mere Haath Bandhe	8:01	Manhar Udhas
Sai Ke Ujalo Mere Sai Ke Ujalo	5:31	Manhar Udhas
Ga Le Bhajan Sai Bhajan	3:59	Manhar Udhas
Barsa Bhi Dega Aankhen Band Karun Ya ...	5:12	Manhar Udhas

Shri Sai Khichdi

2011-09-13T03:22:00.000-07:00

This is eleventh track from Album - Shri Sai Khichdi sung by various artists.

In this bhajan singer says everyone to chant name of Lord Sai Baba.

Vishnu will be re-born in after 4,300 centuries

2011-07-31T21:34:00.000-07:00

I Am Kalki, a new graphic novel that describes the 10th avatar of Vishnu, predicted to be born in the future to end the Kali Yug, took some detailed research by a team of writers, who scoured old Sanskrit texts like the Puranas and the Kalchakra Tantra, to gleam details like where Kalki would take birth, what he would look like, and the colour of his steed

In a world tainted by greed, corruption and crime, the arrival of the latest comic book, I Am Kalki from Vimanika Comics, a Delhi-based company that creates and produces comics based on mythology, is timely. The 10th and final Maha Avatar or incarnation of Vishnu is prophesised to be born in the future and bring an end to this age of destruction, also known as the Kali Yuga.

The brand, which has also created and produced Dashavatara, traces the birth and journey of the super boy who visits Earth in contemporary times to fight evil. But for Karan Vir Arora, founder and CEO of Vimanika Comics, there's more than a grain of truth to the legend. The research team that studied the legend found, interestingly enough, that the next avatar of Vishnu would take birth in Uttarakhand.

"The book is Vimanika's take on the legend of Kalki. Though we have stayed true to the basic narrative, we have taken big leaps of imagination in terms of art, stylisation and plot," says Arora. The leap of imagination was also accompanied by a leap of faith for many in the research team.

A group of researchers and script writers were hard at work for six months, says Arora. Although several versions exist as to where Kalki will be born, the team discovered that the birthplace could be Sambhal, a village in present-day Mordabad district of Uttarakhand. According to Tibetan Buddhist tradition, the birthplace is mentioned as Shambhala, a mythical and mystical kingdom located somewhere in the heart of Asia.

According to the Kalachakra Tantra (or time wheel), 'Kalkin' is mentioned as the title of the 25th ruler of the mythical Shambhala. The 'time wheel' prophesises that Kalki will be born in the home of a brahman in Shambhala village. "We followed the version where it is believed that Kalki will be born in Dev Bhoomi (as Uttarakhand is referred to) in a village called Shambala," says Arora.

Kshtish Padhey, one of the researchers in the team, says he and his teammates found specific references from the Mahabharata and the Kalki Purana, a prophetic tome in Sanskrit that describes the birth and life of Kalki, sometime in the 4,320th century. While the look of the character was decided by the art department, Padhey's contribution lay in detailing Kalki's character. For instance, references of Kalki riding a white horse and a description of his facial features gleamed from ancient texts were some of the suggestions Padhey made.

"After identifying basic characters, we adapted them to present time. We also identified segments and milestones that we would like to highlight from Kalki's imaginary life on earth," says Padhey. Clearly, a non believer. Arora points out how the Manga style of art preferred by the art department may have given Kalki a rough, edgier look. "We have tried to keep a cutting edge, sleek and lean look for Kalki. Though the art is a mix of Indian and European styles, our comic book characters are very Manga," he says. I Am Kalki published by Vimanika and priced at Rs 80. Available at all leading bookstores

What's in a name?
The name Kalki has several stories attached to it. While some believe that Kalki comes from the Sanskrit word 'Kalka' which means mud or dirt, others suggest that the 10th avatar of Vishnu signifies someone who will destroy the dirt or darkness from this world. Another etymological derivative of Kalki suggests a white horse, that he is shown riding in the graphic novel.

http://www.mid-day.com/specials/2011/jul/310711-Vishnu-will-be-re-born-in-UP-after-4300-centuries.htm

More Uttarakhand News, about Uttarakahnd and more http://uttarakhandnews2k.blogspot.com/

Some others blog of Mahara is http://sarkarinaukaricom.blogspot.com and http://enteranceexamresults.blogspot.com/

Rakhi

2011-07-31T21:27:00.000-07:00

Celebrate Rakhi on Tuesday, 13^th August, 2011

Raksha Bandhan

2011-07-31T21:25:00.000-07:00

Raksha Bandhan, the bond of protection), or Rakhi , is a festival primarily observed in North India, which celebrates the relationship between brothers and sisters. The festival is observed by Hindus and Sikhs.[3][4] The central ceremony involves the tying of a rakhi (sacred thread) by a sister on her brother's wrist. This symbolizes the sister's love and prayers for her brother's well-being, and the brother's lifelong vow to protect her. The festival falls on the full moon day (Shravan Poornima) of the Shravan month of the Hindu lunisolar calendar

Lord Krishna Wallpapers

2011-07-31T21:23:00.000-07:00

Extensive collection of Lord Krishna Wallpapers depicting various episodes of Krishna's lifetime. Share there Free Krishna Wallpaper with your friends and devotees of Lord Krishna and wish them a Happy Krishna Janmashtami.

Krishna Janmashtami

2011-07-31T21:21:00.000-07:00

Krishna Janmashtami , also known as Krishnashtami, Saatam Aatham, Gokulashtami, Ashtami Rohini, Srikrishna Jayanti, Sree Jayanthi or sometimes merely as Janmashtami, is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Krishna, an Avatar of the Hindu deity Vishnu.

Krishna Janmashtami is observed on the Ashtami tithi, the eighth day of the dark half or Krishna Paksha of the month of Bhadrapada in the Hindu calendar, when the Rohini Nakshatra is ascendant. The festival always falls within mid-August to mid-September in the Gregorian calendar. In 2009, for example, the festival was celebrated on 14 August, while in 2010, the festival will be celebrated on 2 September.

Rasa lila, dramatic enactments of the life of Krishna, are a special feature in regions of Mathura and Vrindavan, and regions following Vaishnavism in Manipur. While the Rasa lila re-creates the flirtatious aspects of Krishna's youthful days, the Dahi Handi celebrate God's playful and mischievous side, where teams of young men form human pyramids to reach a high-hanging pot of butter and break it. This tradition, also known as uriadi, is a major event in Tamil Nadu on Gokulashtami.

Wikipedia.org

Some others blog of Mahara is http://sarkarinaukaricom.blogspot.com and http://enteranceexamresults.blogspot.com/

http://uttarakhandnews2k.blogspot.com/

Dussehra

2011-07-31T20:31:00.001-07:00

Dussehra is celebrated on the tenth day of the Hindu autumn lunar month of Ashvin, or Ashwayuja which falls in September or October of the Western calendar, from the Shukla Paksha Pratipada, or the day after the new moon which falls in Bhadrapada, to the Dashami, or the tenth day of Ashvin. It is the culmination of the 10-day annual Navaratri festival. It is the largest festival in Nepal, and celebrated by Hindu and non-Hindu Nepalis.

In India, the harvest season begins at this time and so the Mother Goddess is invoked to start the new harvest season and reactivate the vigor and fertility of the soil. This is done through religious performances and rituals which are thought to invoke cosmic forces that rejuvenate the soil. In Bangladesh it is a five day long festival and is celebrated in mandaps (congregation).The largest festival is held at Dhakeshwari temple and Ramkrishna missionary in Dhaka. On the day of Dasha-Hara, clay statues of the Goddess Durga are submerged in rivers. The pooja is performed with turmeric and other pooja items, which are added to the river in order to help the water yield better crops. Source: wikipedia

God of justice Golu Devata

2011-07-29T22:11:00.000-07:00

history Golu Devata is thought to be as an incarnation of Gaur Bhairav (Shiva), and is worshipped all over the region and regarded as the dispenser of justice by the devotees with extreme faith. Historically, he is considered as the brave son and General of Katyuri king, Jhal Rai and his mother was Kalindra, and his grandfather was Hal Rai and great-grandfather was Hal Rai. Historically the origin of Golu Devata is accepted at Champawat. His mother Kalindra is believed to be the sister of two other local deities Harishchand Devjyun (the divine spirit of Raja Harish of the Chands) and Sem Devjyun and both these deities are regarded as uncles of Lord Golu. Another legend suggests that he was a General in the army of Chand king, Baz Bahadur's (1638–78), and died displaying exemplary valour at war, the temple was erected in his honour, at Chitai, 8 km from Almora city. Another legend says that Golu Devta was killed by the king of Binsar due to some false doubt, and he was beheaded by the king and his boy felled at Gairad at Dana Golu and his head felled at Kaparkhan, near modern day Binsar, a few km from Almora.At Dana Golu, there is the original and most ancient temple of Golu Devta is situated. The most popular story about Gwalla talks of a local king who, while hunting, sent his servants to look for water. The servants disturbed a woman who was praying. The woman, in a fit of anger, taunted the king that he could not separate two fighting bulls and proceeded to do so herself. The king was very impressed by this deed and he married the lady. When this queen got a son, the other queens, who were jealous of her, placed a stone in its place and the child in a cage and put the cage into the river. The child was brought up by a fisherman. When the boy grew up he took a wooden horse to the river and on being questioned by the queens he replied that if women can give birth to stone then wooden horses can drink water. When the king heard about this, he punished the guilty queens and crowned the boy, who went on to be known as Gwalla devata. Golu Devta is seen in form of Lord Shiva, his brother Kalva Devta is in form on Bhairava and Garh Devi is form of Shakti. Golu Devta is also prayed as key deity(Ista/ Kula Devta) in many villages of Chamoli. Normally three days pooja or 9 days pooja is performed to worship Lord Golu Devta also known as Goreel Devta in Chamoli District. Golu Devta is offered Ghee, Milk, Curd, Halwa, Poori, Pakauri and head of Goat sacrificed. Two Male Goat scarifice ( Bali) is performed. Preferred black in colour. One in the temple of Golu devta and the other outside temple in remote location. The sacrificed goat is received as Prasada of pooja. Golu devta is known as God of justice and prayed with great pride and enthusiasm. Golu Devta is offered with White Cloths, white pagari and white shaal. There are many temples of Golu Devata in Kumaun, and the most popular are at Chitai, Champawat, Ghorakhal. It is the popular belief that Golu Devata dispense quick justice to the devotee. Devotees in turn offers bells and Sacrifice the animals after the fulfillment of their wishes. Thousands of bells of every size can be easily seen hanging over the temple premises. Many devotees file a lot of written petitions daily, which are received by the temple.

Golu Devata

2011-07-29T22:06:00.000-07:00

Golu Devata or Lord Golu is the legendary mythological and historical God of the Kumaun region of Uttarakhand state of India and is their the much loved deity.

About Golu Devta
Golu Devata is thought to be as an incarnation of Gaur Bhairav (Shiva), and is worshipped all over the region and regarded as the dispenser of justice by the devotees with extreme faith.

Golu Devata mandir at Chitai

Historically, he is considered as the brave son and General of Katyuri king, Jhal Rai and his mother was Kalindra, and his grandfather was Hal Rai and great-grandfather was Hal Rai. Historically the origin of Golu Devata is accepted at Champawat. His mother Kalindra is believed to be the sister of two other local deities Harishchand Devjyun (the divine spirit of Raja Harish of the Chands) and Sem Devjyun and both these deities are regarded as uncles of Lord Golu.

Another legend suggests that he was a General in the army of Chand king, Baz Bahadur's (1638–78), and died displaying exemplary valour at war, the temple was erected in his honour, at Chitai, 8 km from Almora city.

Another legend says that Golu Devta was killed by the king of Binsar due to some false doubt, and he was beheaded by the king and his boy felled at Gairad at Dana Golu and his head felled at Kaparkhan, near modern day Binsar, a few km from Almora.At Dana Golu, there is the original and most ancient temple of Golu Devta is situated.

The most popular story about Gwalla talks of a local king who, while hunting, sent his servants to look for water. The servants disturbed a woman who was praying. The woman, in a fit of anger, taunted the king that he could not separate two fighting bulls and proceeded to do so herself. The king was very impressed by this deed and he married the lady. When this queen got a son, the other queens, who were jealous of her, placed a stone in its place and the child in a cage and put the cage into the river. The child was brought up by a fisherman. When the boy grew up he took a wooden horse to the river and on being questioned by the queens he replied that if women can give birth to stone then wooden horses can drink water. When the king heard about this, he punished the guilty queens and crowned the boy, who went on to be known as Gwalla devata.

Golu Devta is seen in form of Lord Shiva, his brother Kalva Devta is in form on Bhairava and Garh Devi is form of Shakti. Golu Devta is also prayed as key deity(Ista/ Kula Devta) in many villages of Chamoli. Normally three days pooja or 9 days pooja is performed to worship Lord Golu Devta also known as Goreel Devta in Chamoli District. Golu Devta is offered Ghee, Milk, Curd, Halwa, Poori, Pakauri and head of Goat sacrificed. Two Male Goat scarifice ( Bali) is performed. Preferred black in colour. One in the temple of Golu devta and the other outside temple in remote location. The sacrificed goat is received as Prasada of pooja. Golu devta is known as God of justice and prayed with great pride and enthusiasm. Golu Devta is offered with White Cloths, white pagari and white shaal.

There are many temples of Golu Devata in Kumaun, and the most popular are at Chitai, Champawat, Ghorakhal. It is the popular belief that Golu Devata dispense quick justice to the devotee.

Devotees in turn offers bells and Sacrifice the animals after the fulfillment of their wishes. Thousands of bells of every size can be easily seen hanging over the temple premises. Many devotees file a lot of written petitions daily, which are received by the temple.

Wikipedia.org

Chitai Golu Dev Address

2011-07-25T22:37:00.000-07:00

Postal address of Shri Chitai Golu Dev:

Shri Golu Dev
Shri Chitai Golu Mandir
Post Office: Chitai
District: Almora
Uttarakhand
Pin Code: 263601
India

If it is possible for you, please have a visit to the temple or try sending the letter by hand of someone who is going to visit the temple. Alternately you can post it.

Mahendra Mahara

Jai Golu Dev

Some others blog of Mahara is http://sarkarinaukaricom.blogspot.com and http://enteranceexamresults.blogspot.com/

http://uttarakhandnews2k.blogspot.com/

About Golu Devta

2011-07-25T22:35:00.000-07:00

Golu Devta is an ancient folk god of the Kumaon hills, but his devotees are finding intriguing new ways to grab his attention. They like to petition him on sarkari stamp paper. Scores of such petitions are strung up at the Chitai temple, 8 km from Almora and most famous of the Golu shrines dotting these hills. And stand out they do, among the thousands of brass bells and crumpled letters on exercise-book paper offered to this local deity.

Pre-eminently, Golu is the god of justice Supreme court se badhkar.

Story of Golu Devta

2011-07-25T22:31:00.000-07:00

Gol-jew or Golu devta is the most admired and worshiped God of Kumaon Hills. His highness adoration is been implored throughout the Kumaon with various names Ratkot-Golu, Goriya, Gwal Devta, Krishn-avtari, Baladhari, Bala-Goriya, Doodadhari, Nirankari, Gollu, Golla, Hariya Gollu, Gol-jew, Chamandhari Gollu, Dwah Gollu, Gorail and Ghughutiya Gollu, etc. He is said to be the incarnation of Bhairav devta alias GAUR BHAIRAV, an embodiment of the Lord Shri Krishna.

His father Haalrai was famous king of Gari Champawat and the only son of brave and generous predecessor raja Zhaalrai, a role model of Chand dynasty. All 7 queens (real sisters) of king Haalrai couldn’t give birth to a single successor of the dynasty, in due course raja Halarai prayed hard to his kul-devta (God of extended family) Kaal-Bhairav, eventually with bliss God Kaal-Bhairav took pity on him and rewarded by granting a amazing wish, a brave successor of chanda dynasty, a new birth of his own embodiment. According to Kaal Bhairav Devta, king’s all 7 queens were not eligible enough to acquire his new birth, so a new marriage must needed to be bond with Devi Kalinga, sister of PANCHNAAM DEVTA. As per the wish raja Haalrai got married with Kalinga and after a while Rani Kalinga was expecting a baby.

Unfortunately 7 queens were extremely jealous of her, and to the end committed a cruel sin, immediately after birth they replaced the newly born baby with a set of stones (sill-lwada), later packed the baby in a box having seven locks and finally threw him out in the Kali River. Few miles away a fisherman (BHANA DHEEWARA) found a heavy stuff trapped in his fishing net, brought it up, and got surprised to see the baby inside. Bhana Dheewara and his wife were barren, they decided to take a good care of the baby, with immense care and love they let grew him up. This embodiment has started showing his magic since his childhood.

Once upon a time, Raja Haalrai while on hunting saw this child riding on a wooden horse near the bank of river Kali. The King could observe the extraordinary divine power on his face…he was keep gazing at him for a while…..and finally asked about what he doing there. The Child replied he is there to let his horse drink water. Surprisingly king asked about, how a wooden horse can drink water. Innocently child replies back, ‘if a queen can give birth to stones then why couldn’t his wooden horse drink water”. The king was astonished with the reply and earnestly enquired about the child. Detectives of the palace identified him, after knowing the story he brought him back to his palace and declared him the prince of Gadi Champawat.

Later he ruled the whole Kingdom and endows his public with a trustful justice irrespective of the various critical issues. His highness Gol-jew is known to be the God of justice. He was a great warrior and his lore of bravery and justice are still sung by the local folk artistes during various fairs, jagars and baisi.

Although every village of Kumaon has a temple of His-highness Golu Jew, though it is believed that the original is said to be the one located at Goluchaur Champawat. Other famous temples are located at Chaura (Someshwar), Ratkote (Manan), Tarikhet, Manila, Gagrigol, Chuthan, Ghorakhal and the most famous one at Chitai (Almora). People after failing to get justice from other sources used to appeals his-highness Golu Devta and offer bells after they get evenhanded. His-highness Golu Devta does justice and punishes the defaulter in several ways known as ‘Chetak’ among folks. The defaulter has to compromise with the victim in a live combined worship called Jagar afterward puja is been done at his-highness Golu Devta’s temple.

Some others blog of Mahara is http://sarkarinaukaricom.blogspot.com and http://enteranceexamresults.blogspot.com/

http://uttarakhandnews2k.blogspot.com/

Janmashtami

2011-07-25T21:58:00.000-07:00

Sri Krishna is considered as the eighth avatar (incarnation) of Lord Vishnu's, (one of three major Hindu Gods) on earth. He is considered to be the Lord's most glorious incarnations. It is said that his remembrance true heart brings extreme joy and pleasure because Sri Krishna himself was a manifestation of joy at all levels and in all walks of life. No other God in the Hindu pantheon, or for that matter in any other religion, is associated with so many romantic tales and so fully radiating with all the divine attributes as Sri Krishna.

Since Sri Krishna lived in luxury throughout his life, Sri Krishna Jayanti is celebrated with pomp and splendor. Plenty of sweets are made on this day. Among these are laddus (yellu oonde), chakli, cheedai, payasam (kheer), and so on. In addition, plenty of milk products especially butter, which was Sri Krishna's favorite childhood food, is given in offerings. A wide variety of fruits are also offered. The most common sweets made laddus and payasam.

Great indeed are his many Leelas and the way in which he charms one and all. Several sages and seers have paid homage to him. Narada, Sri Kulashekara Azhwar, Andal, Tirumangai Azhawar, Nammazhwar have sung glorious verses in praise of Lord Krishna who embodies Shudda Satvam. The Bhagavad Gita coming from the Lord is the absolute truth which has withstood the test of time and has formed the basis and inspiration for many Acharyas and Azhwars.

The life and message of Sri Krishna is the most stirring saga of one of the greatest saviour and profounder of Dharma. Born in the dungeons of Kansa who was out to kill him at the very moment of his birth, Sri Krishna's life is replete with many such mortal dangers which he successfully triumphs over. He was the unchallenged hero of his times both in terms of his bodily prowess and his intellectual brilliance.

Sri Krishna Jayanti, therefore, signifies not merely the birth of a great and Divine teacher of mankind in some distant past but the lighting of the spark of the Divine Power in every one of us, which spurs us on to play our dynamic part in this world of practical and hard realities with a sense of high spiritual purpose. Krishna represents the total power of attraction (Aakarshna Shakti) like a magnet of infinite rise. Hence Krishna is the source of joy.

The cultural aspects are represented by the traditionally dressed devotees. The raas or dance is also done with devotees taking part with spiritual fervor. Sri Krishna who manifests all levels of joy, is also the source of spiritual joy, which overrides mental or emotional joy, just as emotional joy overrides physical joy. If all the three are integrated and interdependent, then the observance of the festival takes on the full meaning of Sri Krishnaarpanamastu - let everything be offered to Sri Krishna.

Janmashtami 2011 - 22 August.

Some others blog of Mahara is http://sarkarinaukaricom.blogspot.com and http://enteranceexamresults.blogspot.com/

http://uttarakhandnews2k.blogspot.com/

About Janmashtami

2011-07-25T21:57:00.000-07:00

King Kansa was the most absolute and tyrannical monarch of the period; the bare mention of whose name was sufficient to send fear through the hearts of all good and peace-loving people. His sister's name was Devaki upon whom his brother Kansa showered brotherly love. And that is the reason why, on the day of Devaki's marriage to Vasudev, when the time came for Devaki to travel to her husband's house, that king Kansa wanted to drive the carriage himself as a token of his brotherly love.

The newly married couple were simple and beautiful, yet noble and majestic to look at. They were really very happy. The royal carriage richly decorated with precious gems and ornaments, was being followed by a large retinue of people wearing colourful gala dresses. Everything was pleasant all round.

Suddenly the face of nature changed. The birds stopped singing; the sun was obscured by a cloud; the soft breeze became a howling wind creating dust storms. Ill omens were pointing to imminent danger. An unaccountable fear suddenly gripped the minds of all in the procession. At such a time, an unseen voice, an oracle, was heard from above which said:

"Oh you foolish one, whom are you driving so merrily? Would you not know that the eighth issue of her womb shall be the cause of your death?"

On hearing this, the terrible Kansa sprang up from his seat, drew his sword, and was about to kill his sister on the spot, had not Vasudev intervened. Falling upon his feet, on behalf of his newly married wife, reminding Kansa that not Devaki but her eighth child would be the cause of his death. So he requested Kansa most humbly, to spare her life, she being fully innocent, and promised, since he had fear from her children, that each and everyone of them would be given over to him. Kansa felt the force of the reason and agreed to the proposal of Vasudev.

Besides his newly married bride Devaki, Vasudev had another good wife, named Rohini and with these two loving and dutiful wives he managed to live in peace and comfort.

In the course of time, the first male child was born to Devaki. Vasudev, true to his word, sent the news to King Kansa, who sent his servants to fetch the child whom he instantly killed with his own hands. Six children were thus killed by the cruel king, who foolishly wanted to avert the course of fate.

In the case of the seventh child, somehow or other the womb appeared to be fruitless, although it was really transferred, through divine agency, from Devaki to Rohini, who in due course of time, brought forth a child that, on account of its transference from one womb to another came to be known by the name of Sankarshana.

Now when the time for the birth of her eighth child was approaching, Kansa ordered Vasudeva and Devaki to be cast into his prison, bound with the same chain.

Both the wife and husband did not know what to do. Every minute of their lives they called upon their only hope, their only deliverance, God. The solace of the unhappy, ardent prayers proceeding from the very bottom of their souls, incessantly flowed out of their hearts; and the almighty Lord of the universe, in His own mysterious ways, was infilling their souls with infinite power of endurance which kept the fragile vessels of their delicate frames steady and safe in that gloomy and stormy sea of life.

For us, there is a lesson to be derived from this. We can draw great comfort from the Gita where the Lord tells us: Ch.8,verse 58-"Fixing your mind on Me, you shall by my grace, overcome all obstacles..."

Devaki was about to usher into the world its saviour, and she along with her husband, bewailed her lot and beating her forehead said: "O darling, be not born of me to be smashed to death by the cruel king Kansa". And with this, both Devaki and Vasudeva fell into a swoon. In the gloom of that unconsciousness, suddenly a light flashed, and a beautiful youth of sixteen, holding mace and discus, conch shell and lotus in his four hands, rose above the horizon of their mental firmament, healing all their mental wounds, cheering and exhilarating them with his sweet smile."Father and mother, weep no more. I have come at last to your rescue and to the rescue of all the good people. Open your eyes and see me as your child. Carry me father to the house of your friend Nanda in Gokula. His wife Yashoda has given birth to a daughter just now. Exchange me for that daughter. Bring her back to this prison leaving me on the lap of Yashoda who will be sleeping at the time. Nothing shall bar your path".

With these words, the soul-solacing charming youth vanished.

When Devaki and Vasudeva opened their eyes, they saw the most charming and beautiful baby ever a parent was blessed with. That was at midnight of Ashtami-Rohini day, the divine baby was born in Prison. The earth and the heavens were filled with joy. Flowers blossomed, rains fell from the sky, peacocks danced, the gods rained flowers, and divine music was heard. Devaki and Vasudeva forgot their miserable condition for a while, looking at the smiling baby playing with its tiny limbs. The mother kissed the sweet face and forgot her danger. Then after a while, they realised the real state of affairs and both the husband and wife shuddered. Then the sweet instructions of the fascinating youth in the vision flashed into their minds. Vasudeva clasped the child at once in his bosom to start for Gokula, but found that his legs were in chains. He did not know what to do. In his haste he gave a jerk, and his legs were released! He sprang upon his feet and ran towards the door of his dungeon. The massive iron-barred doors were locked with three fold locks; but the guards were all asleep, and therefore fearlessly he gave a push forward and the gates were unlocked and flew open of their own accord. The crossing over the river Yamuna was just as miraculous. Vasudeva reached Gokula and to his astonishment found the door of Nanda's house open. He exchanged the babies and hurried back to the prison of Kansa. Early in the morning, all the people at Gokula came to know that a beautiful male child, a prince had been born the previous night at midnight to Nanda's wife, and their simple hearts were filled with unbounded joy.

Janmashtami History

2011-07-25T21:56:00.001-07:00

Janmashtami is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Krishna, the re-embodiment of Lord Vishnu who gave us the vital message of Bhagwat Gita- the guiding principle for every Hindu. Janmashtmi is celebrated with full energy all over the country. It is celebrated in various parts of India to mark the birth of Lord Krishna. It is observed on the eight day of the Shravan month according to the Hindu calendar. The temples throughout the country witness an extravagant and colorful celebration on this occasion.

Raslila (an act) is performed to recreate incidents from the life of Krishna and to commemorate his love for Radha.

Lord Vishnu is invoked in his human manifestation as Krishna on his birth anniversary in the festival of Janmashtmi. The idol of Krishna is taken for bath in the midnight and is placed in the cradle. Devotional songs and dances mark the celebration of this festive occasion all over the northern India.

Janmashtmi is a very auspicious night for those seeking for God's realization. It is the day when the supreme power appeared on earth. It may seem totally unbelievable that the creator that the creator himself appeared in a province, in a village in India. If you will try to understand all this, your mind will fail. So make one thing very clear that he came on earth because he had great compassion for all souls. He appeared to help the souls. He appeared among us. And what did he do? He did everything to help us.

On this day, in some parts of India, especially Maharashtra, youths celebrate it by breaking the clay pots filled with curd and butter suspended high above the ground. Young men and children form human pyramid to reach the pot and break it. This custom follows from Lord Krishna who use to steal butter from the villagers in this manner along with his friends. The reason for this is that Gokul; the place where Lord Krishna spend his childhood used to generate a lot of milk and people used to sell it in Mathura, thus depriving their children from milk and butter which was very essential for them.

Therefore in order to pay our homage to a such great god, we celebrate his birthday all over the country.

Some others blog of Mahara is http://sarkarinaukaricom.blogspot.com and http://enteranceexamresults.blogspot.com/

http://uttarakhandnews2k.blogspot.com/

Raksha Bandhan

2011-07-25T21:54:00.000-07:00

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on the full-moon day in the month of Sravan (July- August).

This day symbolises love, affection and a feeling of brotherhood and sisters tie a piece of thread, called rakhi around the wrist of their brothers, praying for their long life and happiness. This tradition of tying a rakhi has been coming down through the ages, since the vedic times.

Some others blog of Mahara is http://sarkarinaukaricom.blogspot.com and http://enteranceexamresults.blogspot.com/

http://uttarakhandnews2k.blogspot.com/

Rakhi 2011 date is: 13th August 2011

2011-07-25T21:53:00.000-07:00

In year 2011 rakhi is on 13th August 2011 (Saturday).

Some others blog of Mahara is http://sarkarinaukaricom.blogspot.com and http://enteranceexamresults.blogspot.com/

http://uttarakhandnews2k.blogspot.com/

Festivals in Shravan Month

2011-07-25T21:42:00.000-07:00

Shravan month is full of festivals and this is the reason why it is called as the holiest month of a year. Here is a list of festivals that fall in this month.

Naga Panchami
Shravani Purnima
Raksha Bandhan
Vara Lakshmi Vrata
Rishi Panchami
Sitala Saptami
Janmashtami
Ajaikadasi
Pithori
Pola
Some others blog of Mahara is http://sarkarinaukaricom.blogspot.com and http://enteranceexamresults.blogspot.com/
http://uttarakhandnews2k.blogspot.com/

Janmashtami Recipes

2011-07-21T21:31:00.001-07:00

Singhare Ki Puri
Kheer
Shrikhand
Gopalkala
Kalakand
Murukku
Peda

Krishna Janmashtami In Vrindavan

2011-07-21T21:30:00.000-07:00

Janmashtami is a Hindu festival celebrated with great enthusiasm all over India. Colorful cultural programs all conducted all through the day, while in the midnight, aarti is performed and bhajans praising Lord Krishna are sung. A number of cultural programs are organized all through the day, to commemorate the birth of Lord Krishna. Small children are dressed in Lord Krishna and his playmate Radha's costumes, during the cultural programs. In addition to this, Raslila (dance drama) is conducted by various communities. The dance drama depicts some of the important phases of Shri Krishna, with special emphasis on the days spent by him in Gokul.

People indulge in making delicious recipes to savor on, after worshipping Lord Krishna. Sweets and desserts are the most preferred dishes, because Lord Krishna was known for his sweet tooth. This is the reason why most of the dishes prepared on Janmashtami are sweet. Moreover, many people observe a fast during the day, as a part of the celebrations. Certain diet is formulated for fasting, which is considered auspicious, when observed on the ceremonious occasion. Also known as Upavasa, fasting originated as a part of the offering that one could give to Lord Krishna, on his birthday - Krishnashtami. In the following lines, check out more information on Janmashtami fast.

Types Of Fast

Nirjal Fast
The ardent followers of Lord Krishna celebrate Janmashtami by observing Nirjal fasts, which literally means starvation. They would not consume even a drop of water, all through the day of Janmashtami. The fast is broken only in the midnight, when aarti is performed and prasad are offered to the deity. It is believed that nirjal fasts would help them get closer to the Almighty.

Phalahar Fast
Phalahar vrat is another type of fast observed on Krishna Janmashtami. This is somewhat lenient than the nirjal fast, because the person can consume milk and fruits during phalahar vrat. However, they refrain from cereals and other kinds of food stuff. The fast is broken in the midnight, after Janmashtami Puja. During both the types of Janmashtami fast, people pass their time by singing bhajans of Lord Krishna and chant mantra.

Food For Janmashtami Fast
Since Lord Krishna is particularly fond of milk, a variety of dishes using milk and its products are made during the fast. Sweets like Peda, Shrikhand, Kalakand, Vella Seedai, Neyyappam are prepared by the devotees, to offer to Lord Krishna. Sweet dishes including desserts (preferably kheer) are made at the time, when people observe fast. However, they would not consume the sweet dishes or any other food unless and until they have been offered to Lord Krishna. They would consume the mouthwatering delicacies only after breaking the fast, during the midnight of ashtami.

Janmashtami In Vrindavan

2011-07-21T21:29:00.002-07:00

Janmashtami is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Krishna, who is considered the savior of humanity. The deity is worshipped for his extraordinary powers and unique charm. Lord Krishna, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, took birth in the Dwapar Yug at the captivity of the demon King Kansa. According to the legends, Lord Krishna was born as the son of Devki (Kansa's sister) and Vasudev. Krishna was destined to kill Kansa and other demons and restore peace in the world. Born in Mathura, Krishna was brought up in Gokul, as the son of Nand and Yashoda. The small child was lovable brat, who wandered around with Gopis of the little town of Gokul. He spent his formative years in Vrindavan. Go through the following lines to know more about Janmashtami in Vrindavan.

Krishna Janmashtami In Vrindavan
Vrindavan is one of the famous places of pilgrimage in North India. Located 15 km away from Mathura (the birthplace of Lord Krishna), Vrindavan is at its best on the auspicious occasion of Janmashtami. The place is location for as many as 5000 Hindu temples, both ancient and modern. The holy town of Vrindavan is situated along the banks of River Yamuna. It is significance in the history of Janmashtami, because Lord Krishna performed the rasleelas with his beloved Gopis at the place. On the auspicious occasion of Krishna Janmashtami, Vrindavan is filled with devotees who visit the place from the nook and corner of India, to offer prayers to their lovable deity - Lord Krishna.

The sound of bhajans and mantras echoes in vrindavan, on the festive occasion of Janmashtami. There, people start celebrating some seven to ten days prior to the exact date of the festival, because such is the influence of the place. Various plays are staged at different places in the town. Professional artists are called upon to give their best performance on the festive season, so that they are showered the blessings of Lord Krishna. Excerpts from the story of Janmashtami are depicted in the dramas, which are conducted all through the festive season.

Some of the important temples of Vrindavan, which are visited during Janmashtami, include Banke Bihari Temple, Rangnathji Temple, Shri krishna Balram Temple, Radharaman Temple and ISCKON Temple. The timings are fixed for various ceremonies and pujas that are conducted all through the day, in the temples on the occasion of Janmashtami. One of the important rituals of the temples is Abhishek (holy bath) during which darshans are open for the devotees. Most of the devotees who visit the temples to seek the blessings of Lord Krishna would have kept fast for the entire day and would break it only at the midnight, after the special Janmashtami puja.

Janmashtami In Mathura

2011-07-21T21:29:00.001-07:00

Janmashtami is celebrated throughout the country with immense zeal and fervor in order to commemorate the birth of Lord Krishna. The celebration of Janmashtami is at its apex at the birth place of Lord Krishna i.e in Mathura. The city is about 145 kms from the national capital of India, New Delhi. It is said that it was one of the midnights of a Sharvan day, when Lord Krishna was born in the Rohini Nakshatra as the savior of humanity. Historians depict that this incident happened five thousand years back in the prison of the Demon King Kansa in Mathura. However, the holy land of Mathura still commemorates this pious and fortunate incident by grand celebration on this occasion.

The grand celebration at Mathura takes place at the actual birth place of Lord Krishna, which has now been rechristened into a grand temple known as Krishna Janma Bhoomi Mandir. Inside this temple, the statue of Lord's idol is placed in a room also known as the ‘Garbha Griha’. Here in Mathura, people celebrate all the Janmasthami celebrations at this temple. They religiously decorate the temple and their home in order to welcome their deity.

The celebration goes on for two days, in which they celebrate their first day by keeping day-long fast and celebrations and feast at midnight after the birth time of Bhagwan Krishna. The second day is also the day of celebratiosn and feasting. The entire city of Mathura is immersed in the devotion of Lord Krishna by singing, dancing and chanting in the names of Lord Krishna. It is expected that every year about 8 lakhs devotees turn up in Mathura on this occasion and the number is increasing day by day.

Janmashtami Celebrations

Krishna-Janmotsava (Midnight celebrations)
The midnight celebration is the celebration of the birth of Lord Krishna. It comprises of Pooja and other rituals. During the Pooja, the idol of Lord Krishna is bathed with milk and curd (panchamrit) and then rocked in the cradle. It is said that if you make any holy wish while cradling Lord Krishna with full heart, it is certain to be fulfilled. The entire Mathura city of Mathura gets immersed in the devotion of Krishna and the echoes of Krishna bhajan and bells. Lord is here fed with prasad of ‘Chhapan Bhog’ (Fifty six dishes). Later the devotees break their fast with these ‘bhog’ and panchamrit.

Performance of Rasleelas
The entire city of Mathura is then flooded with performance of the Rasleelas of Krishna by professional and amateur artists. Some of them are so mesmerizing that the devotees get overwhelmed with their devotion for Lord Krishna.

Jhanki (Tableau)
A Jhanki is a series of scenes depicting the various phases of one’s life. In a Krishna Jhanki, the different stages of the life of Lord Krishna are shown all over the Mathura. They include interesting incidents like - Janmlila, Shankarlila, Putanalila and Naglila.

Jhulanotsav
It is only in the Mathura City that during Jhulanotsav, the swings are hanged in courtyard of temples and all the houses to welcome baby Lord Krishna. The swings are decorated with beautiful flowers and bells to give a festive look.

Ghatas
The celebration of Sri Krishna's birth in Mathura is incomplete without Ghatas. It is a month-long exclusive feature, wherein all the temples of Mathura are adorned with the same color as per the selected theme. Even the idol of Lord Krishna is decorated with the same color.

History of Janmashtami

2011-07-21T21:28:00.001-07:00

Celebrated on the eighth day of Savana month, Janmashtami marks the birth of Lord Krishna, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. The festival is celebrated across the length and breadth of India, by people following Hinduism. In fact, it is an important day for Hindus. The celebration goes on for two days. On the first day, the Raslila (dance drama) is performed, which depicts the important phases of Shri Krishna's life. The merrymaking reaches it peak at midnight stroke, when aarti is performed and bhajans are sung to praise the Lord. Small children are dresses as the young Krishna and his playmate Radha. Then there are folklores and stories which are recited on the occasion, they are generally connected to the history of Janmashtami, which can be traced back to the ancient era. Read the following lines to get information on the history of Janmashtami.

The history of Janmashtmi dates back to thousand years. There are also several legends and stories associated with this festival. If you start exploring the origin of the festival, you will end up listening to thousands of folklores related to Krishna and his birth. It is believed that Lord Krishna was the incarnation of Vishnu, one of the three most important Hindu Gods. It is commonly believed that he took birth for killing Kansa, the unreligious demon king of Mathura and other demons, to establish a kingdom of peace, prosperity and religion on earth and to spread the message of brotherhood and humanity.

In his preaching to Arjuna in the Holy Bhagvad Gita he says ‘Whenever the balance of the universe is disturbed by external interference from any of its parts, then I reveal myself as the Power of eternal balancing. For the protection of those who are in harmony, and the rectification of everything disharmonious, I incarnate myself at every juncture of time.’ So, it is assumed that the form of God will return back on earth for the establishment of peace, religion and prosperity in society once again when required. The celebration of Janmashtami is also a way to commemorate his holy deeds on earth for the mankind.

Historians calculate that the birth of Lord Krishna goes back to the Dwapar Yug. It is in the year of Visvavasu around 3227 BC when Lord Krishna was born. He was born on a dark, stormy night on the day eight day of the second fortnight of the month of Shravana which now corresponds to the month of August-September in the Gregorian calendar. Born in the prison of Demon Kansa, from Kansa’s sister Devaki and Vasudeva, Krishna was declared to be the savior of mankind and the end of Kansa even before his birth. Krishna, right from the day of birth exhibited that he was a special child and there was extraordinary powers with him. Throughout his childhood and adolescence in Gokul, he did many things which made people believe that he was a form of God. Since then, the people of Nandgaon celebrated the birth of Krishna as a day of fortune.

Even thousands of years after his heavenly abode, people observe this day as a day of fortune and commemorate the birth of Lord Krishna by fasting and feasting. People believe Krishna to be the ultimate savior of the world. One who unlike other gods, can be regarded, as a lover, friend, divine guru or one’s own child. People mesmerized with Krishna’s persona and deeds can be seen singing and dancing in the name of Krishna to eternity on the day of Janmashtami. It is the deep faith and devotion of people towards him that the festival is still celebrated with a great honor, joy as well as elation as it was celebrated thousands of years back.

Janmashtami

2011-07-21T21:26:00.000-07:00

Janmashtami also known as Gokulashtami marks the celebration of the birth of Lord Sri Krishna. Sri Krishna was born in the 'Rohini' nakshatram (star) to King Vasudeva and Devaki Devi on the eighth day of the dark fortnight in the month of Sravana. This festival is also known as Sri Krishna Jayanti and Krishnashtmi. The actual day of celebration can be on two different days as the star 'Rohini' and Ashtami may not be on the same day. These days correspond to the August and September months on the Gregorian calendar.

Sri Krishna is considered as the eighth avatar (incarnation) of Lord Vishnu's, (one of three major Hindu Gods) on earth. He is considered to be the Lord's most glorious incarnations. It is said that his remembrance true heart brings extreme joy and pleasure because Sri Krishna himself was a manifestation of joy at all levels and in all walks of life. No other God in the Hindu pantheon, or for that matter in any other religion, is associated with so many romantic tales and so fully radiating with all the divine attributes as Sri Krishna.

Since Sri Krishna lived in luxury throughout his life, Sri Krishna Jayanti is celebrated with pomp and splendor. Plenty of sweets are made on this day. Among these are laddus (yellu oonde), chakli, cheedai, payasam (kheer), and so on. In addition, plenty of milk products especially butter, which was Sri Krishna's favorite childhood food, is given in offerings. A wide variety of fruits are also offered. The most common sweets made laddus and payasam.

Great indeed are his many Leelas and the way in which he charms one and all. Several sages and seers have paid homage to him. Narada, Sri Kulashekara Azhwar, Andal, Tirumangai Azhawar, Nammazhwar have sung glorious verses in praise of Lord Krishna who embodies Shudda Satvam. The Bhagavad Gita coming from the Lord is the absolute truth which has withstood the test of time and has formed the basis and inspiration for many Acharyas and Azhwars.

The life and message of Sri Krishna is the most stirring saga of one of the greatest saviour and profounder of Dharma. Born in the dungeons of Kansa who was out to kill him at the very moment of his birth, Sri Krishna's life is replete with many such mortal dangers which he successfully triumphs over. He was the unchallenged hero of his times both in terms of his bodily prowess and his intellectual brilliance.

Sri Krishna Jayanti, therefore, signifies not merely the birth of a great and Divine teacher of mankind in some distant past but the lighting of the spark of the Divine Power in every one of us, which spurs us on to play our dynamic part in this world of practical and hard realities with a sense of high spiritual purpose. Krishna represents the total power of attraction (Aakarshna Shakti) like a magnet of infinite rise. Hence Krishna is the source of joy.

The cultural aspects are represented by the traditionally dressed devotees. The raas or dance is also done with devotees taking part with spiritual fervor. Sri Krishna who manifests all levels of joy, is also the source of spiritual joy, which overrides mental or emotional joy, just as emotional joy overrides physical joy. If all the three are integrated and interdependent, then the observance of the festival takes on the full meaning of Sri Krishnaarpanamastu - let everything be offered to Sri Krishna.

Janmashtami 2011 - 22 August.

Krishna Bal Leela

2011-07-21T21:25:00.000-07:00

Janmashtami

Lord Krishna is one of the most loved and adored Gods of Hindu religion. The foremost reason of the glorification and reverence of Bhagwan Krishna is his Bal Leela. Bal Leela depicts various episodes between the period of his birth till the age of ten. Lord Krishna right from the time of his birth displayed the signs of his divine being.

Killing of Demoness Putana
According to legend, King Kansa wanted to kill Krishna as it was predicted that he would grow up to kill the King. So Demoness Putana went about killing all the male infants in Mathura and other neighboring towns in the move to kill the new born Lord Krishna. She took the form of a beautiful woman and smeared her breast with poison. While roaming from one town to another, she reached Nand baba's house, and saw Bal Krishna lying in the cradle. She then fled with the child and fed Lord Krishna her milk in the vain hope of killing him. Lord Krishna kept smiling and drinking the milk and after a while Putana shrieked with pain. It is said that while sucking the milk, Lord Krishna sucked her life thus killing her.

Overturning the Cart by Lord Krishna
As per a folklore, during one of the birth ceremonies of Lord Krishna, Mata Yashoda kept fast asleep Krishna under a cart full of milk . Lord Krishna started crying for milk after getting up, but Mata Yashoda didn't hear his cries so Lord Krishna kicked the cart with his feet and overturned it. The pots were shattered and milk started flowing into his mouth. When the story of overturned cart was narrated to Mata Yashoda, she could not believe it.

Episode of Displaying the Cosmos to Mother Yashoda
Legend has it that one day Mata Yashoda was cuddling Lord Krishna and playing with him. The child lying on his mother's lap yawned and opened his mouth. Mata Yashoda saw the whole universe in his mouth, the sun, the moon and all the stars, the sky, mountains, rivers, islands, oceans, all the continents, all living as well as non living beings.

Killing of Demon Trinivarta
It is believed that King Kansa sent one of his loyal servant, Demon Trinivarta to kill Lord Krishna. The demon took the form of a whirlwind and carried the child away. As soon as the demon reached the sky, he found it difficult to proceed further on account of the heaviness of the child. Unable to bear his own weight as well as the weight of the child, demon Trinivarta fell on the ground and met his fate. His took his original form after the death and Mata Yashoda was astonished to see her child lying on the dead demon.

Episode with the Fruit Seller
According to another famous folklore, Lord Krishna went to a woman fruit seller and asked her to give him some fruits in exchange for a handful of grains. The woman took the handful of grains from Lord Krishna and put in her basket and left. On reaching home, the woman was astonished to see her basket full of precious stones and gems instead of grains.

Episode of Omnipresent Lord Krishna
Bal Gopal was very mischievous and found great pleasure in playing pranks on gopis. He would steal their milk, butter, break their earthen pots to get butter. One day Lord Krishna, broke all the earthen pots of a gopi in order to get butter. On being caught red handed, the gopi went to mother Yashoda to inform her of her son's mischievous deeds. She was shocked to see the Lord standing next to his mother; Feeling embarrassed she left the place.

There are many more popular Bal Leelas of God like the killing of demons Aghasura, Bakasura, brothers of demoness Putana . Mata Yashoda tying Lord Krishna with a rope but each time the rope would fall short by a few inches is another famous episode of Krishna Bal Leela.

Lord Krishna’s Disappearance

2011-07-21T21:23:00.000-07:00

Janmashtami

Lord Krishna, the 10th incarnation of Lord Vishnu, took birth on earth with a purpose. The main objective of taking human form by the divine being was to rid mother Earth from the cruelties and increasing power of the demons.

Life Span of Lord Krishna
It is believed that Bhagwan Krishna lived on Earth with brother Balram for 125 years. The first ten years of his life were spent in the towns of Gokul and Vrindavan, in Northern India. The following years beginning in the 11th year of Lord's life till the age of 28 were spent in Mathura. Sri Krishna later established Dwarka, a city in Gujarat and lived the rest of his life there with his wife Rukmini and sons.

Legends of Lord Krishna's Disappearance
According to researchers, Lord Krishna disappeared on 18th February 3102 BC. The period after his disappearance marks the beginning of Kaliyug. It is said Bhagwan Krishna had predicted that exactly seven days after the disappearance of the Lord, the Golden city of Dwarka in Gujarat will drown in the sea. Indeed Dwarka city is said to have been merged in sea owing to torrential rain. There are quite a few reasons assigned to Lord Krishna's leaving his spirit for the heaven. They are as follows:

About Janmashtami

2011-07-21T21:22:00.000-07:00

Krishna represents the supreme personality of Godhead. This fact is stated in the Vedic scriptures and by various authorities. Lord Brahma in Brahma Samhita says, "Krishna is the supreme Godhead. He has an eternal blissful spiritual body. He is the origin of all. He has no other origin and he is the prime cause of all causes".

In one of India's spiritual book it has been stated that " In this material world, which is full of darkness and dangers, combined with birth and death and full of different anxieties, the only way to get out of the great entanglement is to accept loving transcendental devotional service to Lord Krishna. This is accepted by all the classes of philosophers" So in order to pay our respect to this mighty God, the festival of Janmashtmi is celebrated throughout the country.

About The Festival Janmashtami
The festival of Janmashtmi is celebrated eight days after the full moon to celebrate the birthday of Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna was born to the proud parents Devaki and Vasudeva. It was none other than Devaki's own brother Kans who imprisoned Lord Krishna's parents at the time of his birth because it was predicted that the eight child of Devaki and Vasudeva would kill Kans. However the night on which Krishna was born, there was severe storm and somehow Vasudeva managed to take Lord Krishna to Gokul, to give him under the care of Yashodha and Nand.

Janmashtami History

2011-07-21T21:21:00.000-07:00

Over half million pilgrims visit Amarnath shrine

2011-07-21T21:20:00.000-07:00

Srinagar, Jul 21 (PTI) The number of pilgrims to the 3,880 metre high holy cave shrine of Amarnath in south Kashmir crossed half a million mark - a record achieved during the first half of the 46-day annual pilgrimage.The footfall at the cave shrine, housing the naturally formed ice-shivlingam, touched the five lakh mark this afternoon, official sources said.The annual pilgrimage commenced on June 29 from the twin tracks of Baltal in Ganderbal and Pahalgam in Anantnag district and scheduled to end on August 13 coinciding with the Hindu festival of 'Raksha Bandhan'.This is for the first time in the history of the yatra that five lakh pilgrims paid their obeisance at the shrine during the first 23 days and the number is expected to surpass the highest figure of 5.33 lakh recorded in 2008.In 2004, the duration of the pilgrimage was increased from 30 days to 45 days and during that year the highest number of 3.82 lakh pilgrims visited the cave shrine.In 2005, 3.88 lakh pilgrims visited the shrine followed by 3.47 lakh pilgrims in 2006 and 2.96 lakh pilgrims in 2007.The year 2009 saw 3.81 lakh pilgrims, while 4.56 lakh pilgrims offered their prayers at the shrine despite unrest in the Valley last year.The yatra was going on smoothly from both the tracks, the official sources said adding that fresh batches of over 8,000 pilgrims left the base camps of Baltal and Nunwan towards the holy cave shrine this morning.Meanwhile, a 65-year-old pilgrim died of cardiac arrest at Sheshnag along the traditional 42-km Pahalgam route, taking the death toll in the ongoing yatra to 81, the sources said.Govind Raja Ram, a resident of Maharashtra, died at Sheshnag last night, they said.

ibn

Bhudda Amarnath yatra to commence from August 1

2011-07-21T21:19:00.000-07:00

Jammu, July 20 (PTI) The annual Bhudda Amarnath yatra in Jammu and Kashmir's border district of Poonch will begin from August one."The annual Bhudda Amarnath yatra will start in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir from August one," National Vice Coordinator, Bajrang Dal, Rajesh Panday told reporters here today.The first prayers will be held in the Himalayan shrine of Lord Shiva in Mandi belt of Poonch district on August one, he said, adding that the first batch for the yatra will leave from Bagwati Nagar basecamp in Jammu from August 2.The yatra would be for a period of 10 days and will commence from Jammu, Panday said.Over 2 lakh pilgrims are expected to visit the border shrine, he said.He also appreciated the efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir government for including the shrine in pilgrim tourism and constructing a yatri bhawan in the shrine complex for trouble-free stay of pilgrims.
ibn

The Legends of Rakhi/Raksha Bandhan

2011-07-18T20:45:00.000-07:00

Origin
The Shravana or the monsoon month carries all hues and shades of nature and emotions. Religiously speaking Shravan is a pious month and full moon of this all-important month is considered to be a very holy day. It is celebrated in different ways for different reasons almost throughout the country.

For the siblings it is the eternal tie of love, for Brahmins the day to take the pledge of Brahmanik rites and for those who depend sea and monsoon, it is the beginning of the new season.

Indian festivals are based on the weather changes and their significance in the lives of people but they do have a story to support the celebrations. The rich Indian Mythology provides a religious reason to celebrate the day in a specific way. Many epics are related to the day and the origin of Raksha Bandhan. The festival finds a mention in most of the epics and its origin can be traced back to the mythological Pouranik times.

The legend in the Bhavishya Puran
The legend refers to a war between the Gods and the Demons. The demon King Brutra was advancing and the Gods lead by lord Indra, were on verge of defeat. The king of Gods, Indra approached Guru Brihaspati to find a solution to the situation. Brihaspati asked Indra to tie a sacred thread on his wrist, powered by the sacred mantras on the Shravan Purnima. Lord Indra's Queen Sachi also called Indrani, empowered the thread and tied it on to his hand on the decided day. The power of the sacred thread called Raksha helped the Gods to victory.

The tradition of thread tying still continues. It is a gesture of goodwill.

The legend of King Bali and Goddess Laxmi
According to another legend Demon King Bali was a great devotee of Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu had taken up the task to guard his kingdom leaving his own abode in Vaikunth. Goddess Laxmi wished to be with her lord back in her abode. She went to Bali disguised as a Brahmin woman to seek refuge till her husband came back.

During the Shravan Purnima celebrations, Laxmiji tied the sacred thread to the King. Upon being asked she revealed who she was and why she was there. The king was touched by her goodwill for his family and her purpose and requested the Lord to accompany her. He sacrificed all he had for the Lord and his devoted wife.

Thus the festival is also called Baleva that is Bali Raja's devotion to the Lord.It is said that since then it has been a tradition to invite sisters in Shravan Purnima for the thread tying ceremony or the Raksha Bandhan

Yama and the Yamuna
It is said that the Raksha Bandhan was a ritual followed by Lord Yama (the Lord of Death) and his sister Yamuna. Yamuna tied rakhi to Yama and bestowed immortality. Yama was so moved by the serenity of the occasion that he declared thar whoever gets a rakhi tied from his sister and promised her protection will become immortal.

In the Epics
Raksha Bandhan finds a mention in Mahabharata when Lord Krishna advised Yudhishthir to perform the ceremony to protect himself and the army from the dangers of the war. It is said that Kunti, the mother of the Pandavas tied rakhi to her grandson Abhimanyu and Draupadi to lord Krishna.

Raksha Bandhan in History

2011-07-18T20:44:00.000-07:00

The traditional Hindu festival 'Raksha Bandhan' (knot of protection) was came into origin about 6000 years back when Aryans created first civilization - The Indus Valley Civilization. With many languages and cultures, the traditional method to Rakhi festival celebration differs from place to place across India. Following are some historical evidences of Raksha Bandhan celebration from the Indian history.

Rani Karnawati and Emperor Humayun
The story of Rani Karnavati and Emperor Humayun is the most significant evidence in the history. During the medieval era, Rajputs were fighting Muslim invasions. Rakhi at that time meant a spiritual binding and protection of sisters was foremost. When Rani Karnawati the widowed queen of the king of Chittor realised that she could in no way defend the invasion of the Sultan of Gujarat, Bahadur Shah, she sent a rakhi to Emperor Humayun. The Emperor touched by the gesture started off with his troops without wasting any time.

Alexander The Great and King Puru
The oldest reference to the festival of rakhi goes back to 300 B.C. at the time when Alexander invaded India. It is said that the great conqueror, King Alexander of Macedonia was shaken by the fury of the Indian king Puru in his first attempt. Upset by this, Alexander's wife, who had heard of the Rakhi festival, approached King Puru. King Puru accepted her as his sister and when the opportunity came during the war, he refrained from Alexander.

Lord Krishna and Draupathi
In order to protect the good people, Lord Krishna killed the evil King Shishupal. Krishna was hurt during the war and left with bleeding finger. Seeing this, Draupathi had torn a strip of cloth from her sari and tied around his wrist to stop the bleeding. Lord Krishna, realizing her affections and concern about him, declared himself bounded by her sisterly love. He promised her to repay this debt whenever she need in future. Many years later, when the pandavas lost Draupathi in the game of dice and Kauravas were removing her saari, Krishna helped her divinely elongating the saari so that they could not remove it.

King Bali and Goddess Lakshmi
The demon king Mahabali was a great devotee of lord Vishnu. Because of his immense devotion, Vishnu has taken the task of protecting bali's Kingdom leaving his normal place in Vikundam. Goddess lakshmi - the wife of lord Vishnu - has became sad because of this as she wanted lord Vishnu along with her. So she went to Bali and discussed as a Brahmin woman and taken refuge in his palace. On Shravana purnima, she tied Rakhi on King Bali's wrist. Goddess Lakshmi revealed who she is and why she is there. The king was touched by Her and Lord Vishnu's good will and affection towards him and his family, Bali requested Lord Vishnu to accompany her to vaikuntam. Due to this festival is also called Baleva as Bali Raja's devotion to the Lord vishnu. It is said that since that day it has become a tradition to invite sisters on sravan pournima to tie sacred thread of Rakhi or Raksha bandan.

When is Raksha Bandhan 2011

2011-07-18T20:41:00.000-07:00

Rakhi on August 13, 2011, Saturday

Feasted with the love and enamor with care, every soul is ready to celebrate the sacred festival of raksha bandhan on 13th August, 2011. The day which has become the cynosure of brotherhood, is celebrated around the world, with the rays of love and affection blooming in it. Rakhi festival is not only a ceremony of tying rakhi but it has moreover transited into the trust and love which a girl ties on her brother's wrist and hope that this hand will always hold her in every ups and downs of life.

As per the Hindu calendar rakhi festival falls on the shravan purnima(full moon day), which corresponds to the month of July-August as per the English calendar. The day is being celebrated as per the Indian calendar, which changes every year, hence the festival also falls on the different dates of the English calendar. So all brothers be ready to stand on the threshold of festive moments and see your sister beaming with joy when you surprise her with amazing gifts.

In Mumbai, rakhi festival is called narial purnima or coconut full moon and keralean people called the occasion as the avani avittam. Every region has their own names and ways for enjoying the occasion but the real spirit of the day enliven in every part, which swabs the true color in the mirage of the India.

Security increased in Haridwar ahead of Shravan pilgrimage

2011-07-18T20:30:00.000-07:00

In view of the recent blasts in Mumbai and heavy inflow of pilgrims during auspicious Shravan month of the Hindu calendar, security in the holy city of Haridwar has been increased.

Thousands of pilgrims from across India have started converging at the banks of River Ganga here for the annual pilgrimage, beginning tomorrow.

The district administration has deployed a large number of police personnel, including some in white clothes, at locations like Chandighat and Premnagar, where heavy rush of kanwarias (pilgrims) are expected, officials said.

On major roads, connecting Haridwar with other major cities, vehicular traffic has either been fully suspended or partially suspended, seeing the rush of bare feet pilgrims.

A senior police official said in the wake of Mumbai blasts, strict security vigilance is being maintained and kanwarias have been barred from bringing articles like tridents and hockey sticks.

Vishu Festival 2011 in Kerala

2011-07-04T22:29:00.000-07:00

Vishu 2011 Festival in Kerala

Vishu festival is an important festival celebrated in Kerala, South India. Vishu is the new year festival of Kerala, and is observed on the 1st day of the Malayalam month of Medam (usually April 14th or 15th every year). Malayalis celebrate Vishu as the astronomical or zodiac New Year in Kerala. In 2011, Vishu festival is on 15th April 2011, Friday.

Vishukkani or Vishu Kani

Vishukkani is the most important event in Vishu. Vishu Kani literally means “the first thing to be seen on Vishu day”. Visnukani is a traditional ritual of arranging several auspicious things to be seen on the Vishu day in the early morning. Some of the important things which are arranged include an idol of Lord Krishna, nilavilakku, Kanikonna flowers (Cassia fistula), raw rice, golden cucumber, betel leaves, arecanut, metal mirror, coins, and coconut. The custom is that every member of the family has to wake up at dawn and go the puja room or the place where Vishukkani is arranged and open the eyes and see the Vishu Kani as th first sight for a better year ahead.

Vishu Kaineetam

Vishukaineetam is a ritual of giving money (earlier it was gold and silver coins) by elder members of the family to children, tenants and servants.

Vishu Festival in Kerala Temples

The famous temples in Kerala – Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple, Sabarimala Ayyappan Temple, Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, Neyyattinkara Sree Krishna Swamy Temple will arrange "Vishukkani Kazhcha" on the early hours of "Vishu" day for devotees. There will be a heavy rush by thousands of devotees to have a Vishukkani Kazhcha of their favourite gods. Though all temples in Kerala celebrate Vishu festival, Vishukkani in temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and Lord Vishnu are of more importance.

New Year Festivals in other Indian States

Vishu is similar to the New Year festivals of other states in India - Puthandu in Tamil Nadu, Bisu in Tulu Nadu region in Karnataka, Naba Barsha in Bengal, Bihu in Assam, Baisakhi in Punjab, and Vishuva Sankranti in Orissa.

Temple treasure set to go beyond Rs 1 lakh crore

2011-07-04T22:28:00.000-07:00

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The fate of the vault 'B', which is the only one remaining to be opened in the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple for preparing an inventory, will be decided on Friday. The seven-member committee directed by the Supreme Court to take stock of the treasures and list them would meet on Friday to take a decision. The vault is likely to be opened by the end of next week only.

The contents of 'B' vault that has not been opened for more than a century are believed to outsmart those which had already been revealed. Precious stones and large quantities of antique gold ornaments and gold utensils are supposed to be stashed in this chamber which is closed with strong metal doors.

Sources said when the belongings of 'B' vault are valued, the total asset of the temple may cross the stunning sum of Rs1 lakh crore. This will make Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple the richest temple in the world.

On Monday, the 'F' chamber, which is one of the 'nityadi ara' (opened daily where items for daily use are kept), was opened to list the articles. It was found that the chamber consists of pooja utensils, jewellery of the Lord, several small and big idols, golden umbrellas and other items. The exercise was done in the chamber in the presence of the 'nambi' as only he is supposed to enter and handle the items. Total value of these articles will be around Rs 10 crores.

The inventorying exercise began in the temple vaults on June 27. The small vaults such as 'C', 'D' and 'E' were opened initially. The vault 'A' was opened on Thursday where the treasure trove found have made the temple the richest in the country. The examiners will submit an interim report to the Supreme Court in a day or two.

Lord Vishnu's royal servants guard his riches

2011-07-04T22:24:00.000-07:00

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As Sree Padmanbha Swamy temple's glittering gems are valued and tagged, it's not just the diamonds that shine but also the royal family of the erstwhile princely state of Travancore.

It's an ode to the family's unflinching devotion and integrity that not a penny has gone missing from the billions stored in the cellars of the centuries-old shrine administered by the royals.

Uthradam Thirunal Marthanda Varma, current head of the royal family, refuses to comment on the stock-taking exercise till the last paisa is counted. "Till then, only my eyes would speak," he insists.

What makes the family's story vis-a-vis the temple all the more compelling is that the rulers always knew of the riches, yet never touched them. "The riches are mentioned in the book "Pradhanapetta Mathilakom Records" (Important Mathilakom Records) compiled by acclaimed Malayalam poet Ulloor S Parameswara Iyer and published in 1941. They also figure in the "Kottaram" (Palace) manual which runs into 12 volumes," says noted historian M G Sasibhushan. "These records refer to the sacred cellars from which treasure is being dug out."

Observers talk of the symbolic significance of the practice of royal family members dusting sand off their feet when they emerge from the shrine. "It was meant to convey that the family members would not take home or misappropriate even a speck of sand belonging to Padmanabha," they say. In fact, the present head, Uthradom Thirunal Marthanda Varma, religiously follows the rule of paying of Rs 151 and 55 paise to the temple if he fails to make it to the shrine on any day.

Unlike other royals, the Travancore family has stayed away from opulence with descendants more inclined towards art and culture.

"There was also a rule that the affairs of the palace should be run from the proceeds of its spice business and not with money from the state treasury," says Sasibhushan. This is followed even now. The present ruler's nephew Moolam Thirunal Rama Varma, next in line to head the family, runs the Aspinwall Company, which to this day supplies pepper to Buckingham Palace and many more European royals," Sasibhushan says.

Though the kingdom of Travancore lapsed in 1949 following the Instrument of Accession with the Union of India, the management of the temple remained with the royal family by virtue of a covenant.

Travancore extended from Kanyakumari (now in Tamil Nadu) in the south to Aluva (Ernakulam district) in the north. Padmanabhapuram (now in TN) was its first capital, but this was shifted to Thiruvananthapuram by Karthika Thirunal Rama Varma, better known as Dharma Raja, so called because he refused to let go of refugees who had fled Malabar following Tipu Sultan's onslaught. He succeeded Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma, first ruler of Travancore, and is credited with formation of the state.

The family, which ruled over erstwhile Travancore, has had a long lineage of visionary rulers. In fact, it was a bold move by the first Marthanda Varma in 1750 that inextricably bonded the temple and the palace. The king donated the wealth of the kingdom to the deity Padmanabha (Lord Vishnu) and ruled the state as "Padmanabha Dasa" (servant of
Padmanabha).

Some important names in the family are Swathi Thirunal (1813-1846), legendary Carnatic musician, who promoted English education and the last king Chithira Thirunal Bala Rama Varma (1912-1991), who abolished the death sentence making Travancore the first territory in India to do so. The last king issued the landmark Temple Entry Proclamation in 1936 doing away with the ban on "untouchables" entering temples. C P Ramaswami Iyer, then Diwan influenced the king's decisions.

toi

Lord's riches worth more than Rs 1 lakh cr

2011-07-04T22:23:00.000-07:00

NEW DELHI: The Kerala temple treasure find keeps getting bigger. It has already captured the imagination of the country and has stirred a debate about the value and how it should be deployed.

While a final word is yet to emerge about the exact valuation, reports that have appeared peg it at around Rs 1 lakh crore. The staggering amount can help the cash-strapped Kerala state fund several of its programmes and transform its economy.

The amount that is being bandied around could also meet the cost of rolling out the Food Security Act (around Rs 70,000 crore) and the rural job guarantee scheme spending of Rs 40,000 crore.

If deployed for economic benefits, it could meet the Centre's education budget for two-and-a-half years and is Rs 82,000 crore more than what the government hopes to collect this year. It can help meet the central government interest and debt payment liability for over four months and is equivalent to seven month's defence spending.

Experts say the value of the treasure trove could be more if the antique value is taken into account. An independent evaluation by international experts could push up the valuation significantly while it may fetch a premium from investors if it is auctioned because of the religious sentiments and heritage value.

The value so far is more than the budget of three states — Delhi, Jharkhand and Uttarakhand and at least 50% higher than Posco's proposed investment of $12 billion (Rs 54,000 crore) in India. It equals BP's investment plans of $20 billion (Rs 90,000 crore) in India, including acquisition of a stake in Reliance Industries' oil and gas acreages. The value is equal to nearly one-third the market value of India's top firm, Reliance Industries Ltd, and almost equal to software giant Wipro's market capitalization of Rs 1.04 lakh crore.

toi

Bad weather suspends Amarnath pilgrimage

2011-07-01T21:29:00.000-07:00

The Amarnath pilgrimage was suspended this morning because of bad weather on both routes leading to the cave shrine in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag District .

Earlier on Thursday, a third batch of 2, 163 devotees left the Jammu base camp for the Amarnath shrine amidst tight security.

The pilgrims included 1340 male, 529 female, 97 children and 197 sadhus. They left in a cavalcade of 55 vehicles.

Adequate security arrangements have been made for pilgrims from Pahelgam and Baltal base camps upto the holy cave.

Administration has made every possible arrangement along the route for the pilgrims.

The helicopter service has also started for the pilgrims from Baltal to Panjtarni and from Pahalgam to Panjtarni.

The one-way heli-fare for Baltal-Panjtarni and Pahalgam-Panjtarni has been fixed at 2425 and 3450 rupees respectively. Children, in the age group of 2-12 years, will be required to pay half of the aforesaid prices.

The Amarnath cave shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The main shrine is claimed to be over 5,000-years-old.

toi

18,000 pilgrims proceed towards Amarnath cave shrine

2011-07-01T21:28:00.000-07:00

SRINAGAR: More than 18,000 pilgrims were on Thursday allowed to move towards the Amarnath cave shrine in Jammu and Kashmir on the second day of the annual pilgrimage, officials said.

"A total of 15,463 pilgrims were allowed to proceed towards the holy cave from north Kashmir's Baltal base camp this morning," a senior paramilitary officer said.

Around 3,000 pilgrims were allowed to proceed towards the cave shrine from south Kashmir's Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp on Thursday, said a senior police officer from Pahalgam.

Hundreds of buses, taxis and private cars carrying pilgrims from different parts of the country continu to arrive.

In its advisory issued for the pilgrims, the local weather office on Thursday forecast cloudy skies with one or two spells of rain or thundershowers along both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes.

Heavy traffic jams on the Srinagar-Baltal road, especially from Ganderbal town towards the base camp, have affected normal life in many areas.

"It has taken us six hours to negotiate the heavy traffic jam from Baltal to Ganderbal town. It is quite frustrating," said Suhail Ahmad, a local resident.

Locals in Haripora village, which is adjacent to the Manigam transit camp of the yatra, also complained of noise pollution.

"Since yesterday, there has been so much loudspeaker activity for the entire night that one cannot sleep," said Abdul Majid, a resident of the village.

Authorities are battling hard to control the heavy rush of pilgrims.

"The problem is that we are fully geared to receive the pilgrims who have registered for the day but the huge rush of unregistered pilgrims is frustrating our plans," said an official.

The Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) which conducts the annual yatra has also issued an advisory to the pilgrims making it clear that unregistered pilgrims would not be allowed to undertake the yatra.

"We have to look after the welfare of the pilgrims. We also have to ensure that the delicate environment along the yatra route and at the base camps is not adversely affected," an SASB official said.

"This is not possible if we allow unforeseen number of pilgrims to undertake the pilgrimage. There has to be discipline and system. This can only be maintained once we know the exact number of yatris we would be handling each day," he added.

Around 25,900 pilgrims, including the unregistered ones, proceeded towards the shrine on Wednesday from both the camps.

The 13,500 feet high Himalayan cave houses a stalagmite which is believed to represent the mythical powers of Lord Shiva.

The 14-km long mountain trek from Baltal to the cave shrine passes through glaciers, mountain streams and tricky narrow paths where pilgrims have to move very carefully.

The 42-km long mountain trek from Pahalgam to the cave shrine passes through Chandanwari, Sheshnag and Panjtarni where pilgrims make night halts before reaching the cave shrine.

The Pahalgam route is the traditional one. It is considered to be safer than the Baltal route although it takes three days for pilgrims to reach the cave shrine while pilgrims return via the Baltal route the same day.

The pilgrimage will last until Aug 13, when Hindus will celebrate Raksha Bandhan.

toi

Heavy rain halts Amarnath Yatra

2011-07-01T21:27:00.001-07:00

NEW DELHI: The annual Amarnath Yatra was on Friday temporarily suspended from the Baltal route as heavy rain continued to lash parts of north India.

Downpour triggered a flood-like situation in southern Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar and caused landslides in Uttarakhand, where hundreds of pilgrims were reportedly stranded at various places. "The Amarnath Yatra from Baltal route has been stopped temporarily due to inclement weather. A decision on allowing the pilgrims to proceed further will be taken only after the track is declared safe," a Yatra committee official said in Srinagar.

Hundreds of pilgrims going to three shrines of Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri in Uttarakhand were stranded due to landslides. At least 10 people have died in rain-related incidents in the state in the last fortnight.

Puish Rautela, executive director of Uttarakhand Disaster Management Mitigation Centre at Dehradun, said highways along the Rishikesh-Gangotri , Dehradun-Yamnotri and the Rishikesh-Badrinath routes suffered damage . The Rajasthan government has taken up rescue operation. At least 2,000 people in several flood-hit villages of Baran and Kishanganj have been moved to safer places. Baran district authorities put the crop loss at Rs 70 crore.

toi

Kashmir reverberates with summer tourists

2011-06-28T00:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the prevailing peace this summer, Kashmir Valley is once again the vaunted paradise on earth, overflowing with tourists who have snapped up every possible airline seat and accommodation in hotels, guest houses, houseboats, tourist huts and lodges.

The arrivals for the year could touch a staggering one million, an official said.

"Up to Wednesday, we had 485,828 tourist arrivals in the Valley since January. This includes 442,540 domestic and 13,207 foreign tourists. This apart, 30,081 tourists visited the Ladakh region during this period with most of them using the Srinagar-Leh highway to reach there", said a senior official of the state tourism department.

He said the arrivals are likely to go up, especially in July, as more tourists are expected to reach here.

"The annual Amarnath Yatra begins on June 29. Around 300,000 pilgrims have registered their arrival to the Valley for this year's Yatra," the official said in an interview.

"Amarnath Yatra pilgrims included, we are expecting a record number of tourist arrivals in the Valley this year", said the tourism department official, adding that the figure for the entire year could go up to one million.

Tourism is the Valley's second biggest money spinner after the Rs.2,000-crore horticulture sector. It was badly hit last year as the Valley had remained shut for over four months because of the summer unrest during which 110 people died in bloody clashes with the security forces.

"Tourist arrivals had dropped to zero after the unrest started here last year. Thanks to the prevailing peaceful atmosphere, more and more tourists are flocking to the Valley.

"Most hotels, guest houses and tourist lodges and huts in Srinagar and (hill stations of) Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam are fully booked. We have advance bookings for hotels and tourist huts for the next two months. All fights to Srinagar are operating at their full capacity these days," the officer said.

Most of the floating palaces, known locally as the houseboats, on the Nigeen and Dal Lakes in Srinagar city have full occupancy these days.

"It is a wonderful tourist season and all of us are praying things stay this way in the coming months and the next year as well", said Muhammad Ramzan, 54, the owner of a Dal Lake houseboat.

Tourist arrivals in 2009 were just 207,013 while 535,374 tourists - the bulk of them Amarnath pilgrims - came to the Valley last year.

TOI

JK Police launches assistance centre for Amarnath pilgrims

2011-06-28T00:35:00.001-07:00

Jammu, June 27 (PTI) The Jammu and Kashmir Police has opened a reception-cum-yatri assistance centre to facilitate smooth boarding and lodging of pilgrims of Amarnath Yatra, which begins tomorrow. "We have launched a reception-cum-yatri assistance centre to facilitate smooth and easy boarding and lodging for the pilgrims, besides providing an idea of roads and routes", Jammu-Samba-Kathua range DIG Farooq Khan told reporters after inaugurating the centre at Kunjwani in the city outskirts. The centre will take care of accommodation facilities at base camp yatri niwas and other places in the city for pilgrims, he said. Booklets, pamphlets and roadmaps will also be distributed to the devotees, Khan said.

Amarnath yatra begins with 2,096 pilgrims

2011-06-28T00:32:00.000-07:00

JAMMU: The annual Amarnath yatra began on Tuesday amid tight security as the first batch of 2,096 devotees left Jammu base camp for pilgrimage to the 13,500 meter-high cave shrine in South Kashmir Himalayas.

With CRPF keeping strict vigil, a cavalcade of 73 vehicles carrying the pilgrims was flagged off by Minister for Tourism and Culture Nawang Rigzin Jora from Amarnath Basecamp at Bagwatinagar Yatri Niwas here around 5:00 AM.

The devotees offered prayers and chanted Lord Shiva slogans like "Bum Bum Bolay, Chalo Amarnath, Chalo Eik Saath" at the event.

1,369 males, 421 females, 110 children and 196 Sadhus left in 49 buses and 24 Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) for Pahalgam and Baltal base camps in Kashmir valley and their onward journey to the shrine.

"The yatra has begun from here today. The first batch has been flagged off for the cave shrine. All arrangements have been put in place for the smooth conduct of the yatra," Jora told reporters.

There is no fear to the yatra and it is going on smoothly, he said after flagging off the event attended by Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Pawan Kotwal and IGP Jammu Dilbagh Singh.

Adequate security arrangements have been made in Jammu and along the route to the Amarnath cave shrine for the safety and security of the pilgrims, Singh said.

With paramilitary forces deployed along the highway, the yatra has crossed Udhampur.

ET

Amarnath yatra begins amid tight security arrangements

2011-06-28T00:30:00.000-07:00

JAMMU: The annual Amarnath yatra began on Tuesday amid tight security as the first batch of 2,096 devotees left Jammu base camp for pilgrimage to the 13,500 meter-high cave shrine in south Kashmir Himalayas.

With CRPF keeping strict vigil, a cavalcade of 73 vehicles carrying the pilgrims was flagged off by minister for tourism and culture Nawang Rigzin Jora from Amarnath basecamp at Bagwatinagar Yatri Niwas here around 5:00am.

The devotees offered prayers and chanted Lord Shiva slogans like "Bum Bum Bolay, Chalo Amarnath, Chalo Eik Saath" at the event.

1,369 men, 421 women, 110 children and 196 Sadhus left in 49 buses and 24 Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) for Pahalgam and Baltal base camps in Kashmir valley and their onward journey to the shrine.

"The yatra has begun from here today. The first batch has been flagged off for the cave shrine. All arrangements have been put in place for the smooth conduct of the yatra," Jora said.

There is no fear to the yatra and it is going on smoothly, he said after flagging off the event attended by divisional commissioner, Jammu, Pawan Kotwal and IGP Jammu Dilbagh Singh.

Adequate security arrangements have been made in Jammu and along the route to the Amarnath cave shrine for the safety and security of the pilgrims, Singh said.

With paramilitary forces deployed along the highway, the yatra has crossed Udhampur.

TOI

Badrinath Yatra

2011-05-30T03:18:00.000-07:00

Badrinath is guarded on either side by two mountains – Nar and Narayan and has the famous Badrinath temple which houses the abode of Lord Vishnu. There is a “Tapt Kund", a bath in which is very refreshing to all travelers facing the temple at the bank of the Alokananda river. The temple remains closed during the winters. There are Dharmasalas and rest houses to meet the accommodation needs of the tourists. The nearest airport is at Jolly Grant, which is 314 km from Badrinath. Haridwar is connected by rail service from Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi and Lucknow. The nearest railhead is at Haridwar, which is about 297 km from the temple.

Kedarnath Yatra

2011-05-30T03:15:00.000-07:00

The Kedarnath Shrine is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is situated at an altitude of about 3581m. The temple was built in the 8th Century AD by Adi Shankaracharya. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is more than 1000 years old and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kedarnath is accessible by roads, rail and air. The nearest airport is at Jolly Grant which is 239 km away. Rishikesh Railway Station which is 221 km from Kedarnath is the nearest station. Besides, Kedarnath is well connected by roads from Gaurikund and Ukhimath from where one can come to Kedarnath on Horseback, Dandies and Ponies. There are rest houses for the tourist to meet their lodging needs.

Yamunotri Yatra

2011-05-30T03:11:00.000-07:00

It is in the 6315 m high Bandarpunchh Peak of the Garhwal Himalayas and has a temple devoted to goddess Yamuna. There are also the holy thermal springs at Jankichatti which is about 7 km away. For reaching Yamunotri one has to undertake a journey of 220 km from Rishikesh to Hanumanchatti. From Hanumanchatti one has to undertake another 13 km journey on foot. The temple remains closed in winters and so the best time to visit the temple is between May to October. The nearest railhead is at Rishikesh and the nearest airport is at Jollygrant. There are Dharmasalas and rest houses at Yamunotri, to meet the accommodation needs of the tourists.

Chardham Yatra Tour

2011-05-30T03:10:00.001-07:00

Chardham is a combination of four religious destinations for the Hindus in the Garhwal range of the Majestic Himalayas in the state of Uttaranchal. The Chardham has been the destination of thousands of Hindu pilgrims for Centuries. It is said that the journey to these four holy destinations will not only wash away the sins, that the person has committed in his life, but also will relieve him from the circles of birth and death. The Chardham or the four sacred places include Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. The journey usually starts from Yamunotri and proceed forward to Gangotri, Kedarnath, and finally ending at Badrinath

About Kumbh

2011-05-27T22:06:00.000-07:00

The Largest gathering Festival
Kumbh's history originates from the beginning of the Creation. All devtas were under the influence of a curse that made them weak and coward, Brahma, (the creator God) advised them to churn the ocean for Amrit (Nectar), intake of which will make them immortal, devtas sough the help of demons for the purpose. gods and demons made a temporary agreement to work together in obtaining amrita (the nectar of immortality) from the Milky Ocean, and to share this equally.The Mandara Mountain was used as a churning rod, and Vasuki, the king of serpents, became the rope for churning. With the demigods at Vasuki's tail and the demons at his head, they churned the ocean for a 1,000 years. However,Dhanwantari, the divine healer, appeared with the "Kumbh" containing nectar in his palms, when the Kumbha (pot) containing the amrita appeared, the demons ran away with the pot and were chased by the gods. By their joint churning Amrit was one of the resultants, found in the last. A battle ensured.For twelve days and twelve nights (equivalent to twelve human years) the gods and demons fought in the sky for the possession of this pot of amrita. It is said that during the battle, drops of amrita fell on to four places : Prayag, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nasik. Kumbha mela is observed at these four locations where the nectar fell.

Maha Kumbh helds after every twelve years, which is once in life time event, if some how your have missed maha kumbh than other option of similar significance is Ardh Kumbh which helf after every 6 years. Allahabad will host next Kumbh in Jan 2007 during the months of Jan - Feb.

The combined sanctity of the three holy rivers, coupled with the spiritual powers obtained from the pot of nectar of immortality has earned Prayag as tirtharaja ( the king of holy places). The confluence of India's three most sacred rivers at Allahabad , Besides the Ganges, there are also two other sacred rivers located at Allahabad, the Yamuna and the Saraswati . Ganges & yamuna has its earthly origin in the Himalayas. Whereas Saraswati, is a mystical river which has no physical form. Its is believed that the Saraswati exists only on the spiritual plane and is not visible to the human eye.

Prayag (near the city of Allahabad, in the state of Uttar Pradesh) at the confluence of three rivers Ganga (Ganges), Yamuna and Saraswati.

Haridwar (in the state of uttaranchal pradesh) where the river Ganga enters the plains from Himalayas

Ujjain (in Madhya Pradesh), on the banks of Ksipra river, and

Nasik (in Maharashtra) on the banks of Godavari river.

About Kailash Parvat

2011-05-27T22:02:00.000-07:00

The very fact one thought of proceeding to Kailash and Mansarovar is a “call from within”. Thousands of Sages, ordinary mortals, philosophers and even the Gods had submerged in blissful trance at the very Bight of this divine grandeur. It is the MERU, SUMERU, SUSHUMNA, HEMADRI (golden mountain), RATNASANU (jewel peak), KARNIKACHALA (lotus mount), AMARADRI, DEVA PARVATHA (summit of gods), GANA PARVATHA, RAJATADRI (silver mountain). It was the SWAYAMBU - the self-created one. Kailasa and Mansarovar are as old as the creation. Everything emanates from there are finally return there. It is the centre of creation and the Universe.

It is the abode of LORD SHIVA and his divine consort PARVATHI. It expounds the philosophy of PURUSHA and PRAKRITI - SHIVA and SHAKTI. The radiant SILVERY summit is the throne of TRUTH, WISDOM and BLISS-SACHIDANANDAM. The premordial sound AUM (NADABINDU) from the tinkling anklets of LALITA PRAKRITI created the visible patterns of the universe and the VIBRATIONS (DVPANI) from the feet of Shiva (NATARAJA) weaved the essence of ATMAN - the ultimate truth. The spreading resonance and limitless patterns constitute the grosser forms of all matters to accurate scale. This is the cosmic dance (THANDAV) visualized in millions of forms by the devotees. The silvery mount is the apex where the sound (NADA) and the lights merges and the true Yogi transcends both these and merges into OM. Mind is the knot tying consciousness and matter this is set free here. This is the heart of Indian Philosophy and civilization and the grand Mansarovar reflects the total Indian consciousness.

Kalpa Viruksha tree is supposed to adorn the slopes. The south face is described as Saphire, East the crystal, west as Ruby and the North as Gold. The city of KUBERA is situated here. Ganga after originating from the toe of Mahavishnu entered the lunar circle and descended on peak of Kailasa. Shiva quelled her furiousness by receiving her on his matted locks. Ganga, it is believed descends further from Kailash and after circuiting Kailasa seven times divides herself as four rivers. The major rivers of India and Nepal originate in this area Brahmaputra (Lohita) Indus (Sindhu) Sutlej (Shatadru) and Karnali.

Kailash ParvatEvery object in this area is sanctified and each one is related to gripping legends. As one ascends through PARIKRAMA one encounters holy peak of RAVANA PARVAT, HANUMAN PARVAT, PADMASAMBHAVA, MANJUSRI, VAJRADHARA, AVALOKITESWARA, JAMBEYANG, SHAVARI, NORSENG etc. the learned address five of them as PANCHABUDHAS. The track takes one through Dhira Puk, Sbi4asthalandfmally to DOLMA (The highest point). This pass belongs to DEVI - PARVATI and is an important point of worship. This point is considered as the point of spiritual renaissance. One can have the best view of Mansarovar and Ravana Tel from the south west point of Kailash during Parikrama.

The grand view of Gulra Mandhata, Mansarovar and Ravana Lake hypnotises the onlooker into subliminal aura. Ravana is claimed to have prayed at this lake (Ravana Tal / Rakshas Tal) and had the audience with Shiva. Mansarovar was created by Brahma at the request; of the great Rishis. This mind born lake contains the essence of all the Vedas. This is the place for holy ceremonial bath: oblations to the ancestors are offered here. Both the lakes are full of swans.

The scriptures reiterate that that who take the holy dip at Manasarovar and carry out the Parikrama around Kailash are absolved of their sins through generations and is absorbed into the Supreme Finality. To him, there is no rebirth, sorrows or joys: he is one with the ultimate - He is one with Shiva: He becomes the Shiva. SHIVOHAM. SHIVOHAM.

This is one of the most important pilgrim centres for the Buddhists. They worship DEMCHOK (BUDDHA in fierceful form) seated on the summit of Kailasa. It is also called Dharmapala - one version quotes the deity as a form of Shiva’s manifestation. The descriptions of the deity are more or less like Shiva. Devi is also given a similar form like Parvathi. They adore Kailash as KANG RINPOCHE and Manasarovar as TSO MAPHAM. Guru Rinpoche (the great Indian Master PADMASAMBHAVA who introduced Buddhism) and Saint Milerapa are greatly revered here by pilgrims. Since TANTRISM runs through the main core of Buddhism here, their customs and practices would be found running close and parallel to Hindu traditions. Like the Indians, they also consider DOLMA (DEVI) and GAURI KUND (Thuki Zingbu) as holiest spots. Buddhists strongly believe that pilgrimage to this place liberates them to NIRVANA. Many of their legends when interpreted rationally would find commonality with Indian approach.

Kailash ParvatThe Jains acknowledge Kailash as ASHTAPADA and PADAMA HRADA. It is believed that ADINATI VRISHABDEVA, the first Tirtankara attained Nirvana here. A few claim that GURU NANAK meditated here. Across the river CHU, there on the Nyanri range stands an impressive temple. Inside this monastry there is a marble statue radiating peace and compassion. This statute is claimed to be that of Guru Nanak. A few call it Guru Rinpoche. Interpretations vary. The entire area echoes with spiritual vibrations. Even the agnostics shall discover new Balance amidst that fathomless serenity. One has to experience it. The common belief is that those who are ordained only could be there.

About Mansarovar

2011-05-15T21:47:00.000-07:00

About Mansarovar

Lake Manasa Sarovar Hindi Tibetan, Mapham Yutso) is a fresh-water lake in Tibet 2,000 km from Lhasa. It is the highest freshwater lake in the world. To the west of Lake Manasarovar is Lake Rakshastal and towards the north is Mount Kailash, known in Tibetan as Khang Rinpoche.

The sight of a huge lake with a reflection of snow-capped mountains in its lucid waters is jaw dropping. Be prepared for a feast for the eyes. Manasarovar Lake lies at 4,556 m above mean sea level. It is relatively round in shape and its circumference is 88 km, depth is 90 m and it occupies a total area of 320 square kilometres.

The lake freezes in winter and melts only in spring.
The Sutlej River, the Brahmaputra River, the Indus River, and the Karnali River all trace their sources to its close vicinity.

Cultural significance

Like Mount Kailash, Lake Manasarovar is a place of pilgrimage, attracting religious people from India, Tibet and the neighbouring countries. Bathing in the lake and drinking its water is believed to cleanse all sins. Pilgrimage tours are organised regularly, especially from India, the most famous of which is the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, which takes place every year. Pilgrims come to take ceremonial bathes in the cleansing waters of the lake.

According to Hindu legend, the lake was first created in the mind of the Lord Brahma. Hence, in Sanskrit it is called Manasarovar, which is a combination of the words Manas (mind) and Sarovar (lake). The lake, in Hindu mythology, is also supposed to be the summer abode of swans, which are considered to be judicious and sacred birds. It is also believed the Devas (Gods) descend to bathe in the lake between 3 and 5 am. This time of the day is known as Brahma Muhurta (moment). Buddhists also associate the lake to the legendary lake known as Anavatapta in Sanskrit and Anotatta in Pali, where Queen Maya is believed to have conceived Buddha. The lake has a few beautiful monasteries on its shores.

The most notable of which is the ancient
Chiu Gompa Monastery,
which has been built right onto a steep hill.
It looks as if it has been carved right out of the rock.
The Jains and the Bonpas of Tibet equally revere this
spot with great enthusiasm.

Amarnath Yatra 2011 - Opening Dates

2011-05-15T21:46:00.000-07:00

Amarnath Yatra 2011 Starting from June 29 to August 13, 2011

Annual pilgrimage to Holy Cave Shrine of Shri Amarnath ji in South Kashmir Himalayas would start on June 29, 2011 and conclude on August 13, 2011 on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan and Shravan Purnima. A decision to this effect was taken in a meeting of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) held in New Delhi today. Governor, Jammu & Kashmir Shri. N N Vohra, who happens to be chairman of the SASB, chaired the meeting that lasted three and a half hours.

In another significant decision, the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board decided to enhance Heli capacity for the pilgrims during Amarnath Yatra 2011 and reduced one way fare from Pahalgam to Panjtarni from last year's Rs 3800 to Rs 3495 this year per adult passenger and from Rs 1900 to Rs 1745 for children in the age group of two to 12 years.

"Enhancement in heli-capacity for Pahalgam-Panjtarni sector would further boost economic benefits to local stake holders including the tourism, travel, transport, hotel and restaurant owners associations'', official sources said, adding that last year, about 5000 yatris had availed the helicopter facility on Pahalgam-Panjtarni route.

The meeting was attended by the Board Members, Sri Sri Ravi Shanker, Dr. Kapila Vatsyayan, Justice (Rtd.) G. D. Sharma, Dr. (Ms.) Sunita Narayan, Shri Vijay Dhar and Dr. (Prof.) Ved Kumari Ghai. Besides, Shri R. K. Goyal, Chief Executive Officer and Shri Saugat Biswas, Addl. Chief Executive Officer, attended the meeting.

The Board expressed satisfaction about the arrangements made for the conduct of Shri Amarnathji Yatra 2010 and particularly appreciated the measures taken for environmental protection, including the operation of two Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), based on the eco-friendly biological treatment, at the Baltal and Nunwan Base Camps. The Board desired that these protection measures should be sustained and progressively upgraded for the future Yatras. The Board was informed that a Comprehensive Plan had been drawn up in this regard, in consultation with an eminent Environmentalist and

Director, Centre for Science and Environment, Delhi, who is also a a member of the Board. Referring to the helicopter service from Pahalgam to Panjtarni, which was started in 2009 on experimental basis for about two weeks before the conclusion of Yatra, the Board noted with satisfaction that the heli service on the Pahalgam - Panjtarni route, during Amarnath Yatra 2011, had generated an encouraging response from over 5000 Yatris, who availed of this service. Based on this experience and to satisfy the increasing demand, it has been decided to enhance the available Heli-capacity for Amarnath Yatra 2011 and, simultaneously, the one way fare from Pahalgam to Panjtarni stands reduced from Rs. 3800/- to Rs. 3495/- per adult passenger and for children of 2-12 years of age is reduced from Rs.1900/- to Rs.1745/-. It was observed that the enhancement in the heli-capacity for the Pahalgam-Panjtarni sector would further boost the economic benefits to the local stake holders.

While deliberating the need for evolving a pragmatic schedule for the annual Amarnath Yatra 2011, the Board took note of the fact that while Shravan Purnima / Raksha Bandhan fell on 24th August in 2011, it falls on 13th August in 2011. The Board noted that during the 2010 Yatra, despite vigorous efforts to carry out snow clearance operations on the Chandanwari – Sheshnag – MG Top – Panjtarni – Holy Cave axis, the route could become fit for movement only around end June. It was also noted that during Yatra 2009, despite sustained hectic efforts to clear the tracks of snows, the Yatris had faced severe difficulties for the initial 10-12 days, particularly on the Chandanwari route. The Board also took note that the annual schedule of the Yatra in the past 15 years had varied from 15 to 60 days and that about 85% of the pilgrims complete the Yatra within 30 days of the commencement date.

Once the snow-melt had commenced, the J&K State Police, Central Police Forces, Army and each of the concerned J&K State Government Departments would require adequate time to establish the required security and logistical support arrangements for the Yatra, the Chief Executive Officer of the Board was desired to timely commence the registration of pilgrims and ensure the effective management of the Yatra which would commence on 29th June and conclude on 13th August 2011.

The Board noted that a good number of pilgrims lose their lives every year owing to medical reasons, particularly due to Cardiac failure, during the annual Shri Amarnathji pilgrimage 45 and 68 persons lost their lives in the 2009 and 2010 Yatras, respectively. The Board desired that a very strong advisory should be issued to the intending Yatris to undergo a proper medical check-up to assess their fitness for undertaking the arduous Amarnath Yatra 2011.

The Board desired the Chief Executive Officer to generate adequate awareness amongst the people about the difficult nature of the Yatra through appropriate features in the print and electronic media. In this context, the Board urged all sections of media to provide whole hearted support, in the larger interest of the pilgrimage.

The Board also stressed the need for propagating greater awareness, among the people at large, about the requirement of securing prior registration before embarking on the pilgrimage. It was observed that the Registration process should commence timely, well ahead of the commencement date of the Yatra.

The Board noted with satisfaction that the initiatives taken during 2010 Yatra in regard to the Group Insurance Cover to Yatris, Ponywallahs, labourers, Dandiwallahs and Ponies are being taken forward for this year's Yatra. In this context, the Chief Executive Officer informed that each Registered Yatri, Labourer, Ponywallah and Dandiwallah is being extended a Group Accident Insurance Cover for Rs. one lakh and necessary arrangements have since been firmed up with M/s New India Assurance Company. The Board was further informed that on the directions of the Governor, the amount of Insurance Cover for the ponies has been enhanced from Rs. 20,000/- in 2010 to Rs. 25,000/- this year, for the benefit of the ponywallahs who loose their animals in accidents during the Yatra.

The Board was apprised of the efforts being made to suitably upgrade the telecommunication facilities in the Yatra area this year. In this context, at the instance of the Governor, the Union Secretary, Department of Telecommunications had chaired a high level meeting last month to finalise an Action Plan, for providing improved mobile connectivity in the entire Yatra area this year.

Over 80,000 get registered for Amarnath pilgrimage

2011-05-15T21:43:00.000-07:00

Srinagar: More than 80,000 pilgrims have registered themselves for the upcoming annual Amarnath yatra in the Himalayas in Jammu and Kashmir in the four days since the registration process began.

"A total of 43,435 people have opted for the traditional Pahalgam route and 36,878 have secured registration for the Baltal route," chief executive officer of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board RK Goyal said.

Srinagar: More than 80,000 pilgrims have registered themselves for the upcoming annual Amarnath yatra in the Himalayas in Jammu and Kashmir in the four days since the registration process began.

"A total of 43,435 people have opted for the traditional Pahalgam route and 36,878 have secured registration for the Baltal route," chief executive officer of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board RK Goyal said.

PTI

Over 80,000 get registered for Amarnath pilgrimage

2011-05-15T21:42:00.001-07:00

Srinagar, May 15 (PTI) More than 80,000 pilgrims have registered themselves for the upcoming annual Amarnath yatra in the Himalayas in Jammu and Kashmir in the four days since the registration process began. "A total of 43,435 people have opted for the traditional Pahalgam route and 36,878 have secured registration for the Baltal route," Chief Executive Officer of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board R K Goyal said. The registration for the yatra had began on May 10. "Yatra permits have been secured through internet based e-registration facility and 149 bank branches spread across various states during the first four days," Goyal said. PTI

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra Guidebook for 2011

2011-05-13T22:05:00.000-07:00

READ KAILASH MANASAROVAR YATRA GUIDEBOOK FOR 2011

HISTORY OF THE AMARNATH PILGRIMAGE

2011-05-13T22:00:00.000-07:00

The separatists in Kashmir and their “secular” supporters are trying to spread the myth that the Amaranth Yatra is of a recent origin. They claim that it started only after a Muslim shepherd of Batakot, a certain Buta Malik, originally”discovered” the Amarnath cave when he lost his flock and found that it had strayed into the sacred spot some 150 years ago. There is no documentary proof of this so-called discovery, the story having probably been concocted to give credit to Muslims for having started the most popular Hindu pilgrimage of Kashmir.

There is ample and conclusive historical evidence, on the other hand, to prove that the holy cave and the ice lingam were known to the people since very ancient times and have been continuously and regularly visited by pilgrims not only from Kashmir but also from different parts of India.

“While the earliest reference to Amarnath can be seen in the Nilamata Purana (v.1324), a 6th century Sanskrit text which depicts the religious and cultural life of early Kashmiris and gives Kashmir’s own creation myth, the pilgrimage to the holy cave has been described with full topographical details in the Bhringish Samhita and the Amarnatha Mahatmya, both ancient texts said to have been composed even earlier.”

References to Amarnath, known have also been made in historical chronicles like the Rajatarangini and its sequels and several Western travellers’ accounts also leaving no doubt about the fact that the holy cave has been known to people for centuries. The original name of the tirtha, as given in the ancient texts, is of course Amareshwara, Amarnath being a name given later to it.

Giving the legend of the Naga Sushruvas, who in his fury burnt to ashes the kingdom of King Nara when he tried to abduct his daughter already married to a Brahmin youth, and after the carnage took his abode in the lake now known as Sheshnag (Kashmiri Sushramnag), Kalahana writes:

“The lake of dazzling whiteness [resembling] a sea of milk (Sheshnag), which he created [for himself as residence] on a far off mountain, is to the present day seen by the people on the pilgrimage to Amareshwara.”(Rajatarangini, Book I v. 267.Translation: M. A. Stein).

This makes it very clear that pilgrims continued to visit the holy Amarnath cave in the 12th century, for Kalhana wrote his chronicle in the years1148-49.

At another place in the Rajatarangini (Book II v. 138), Kalhana says that King Samdhimat Aryaraja (34 BCE-17CE) used to spend “the most delightful Kashmir summer” in worshiping a linga formed of snow “in the regions above the forests”. This too appears to be a reference to the ice linga 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 consecration 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). 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). According to it, in a reply to Akbar’s query about Kashmir Yusuf Khan, the Mughal governor of Kashmir at that time, described among other things the Amarnath Yatra in full detail. His description shows that the not only was the pilgrimage in vogue in Akbar’s time – Akbar annexed Kashmir in 1586 – but the phenomenon of waxing and waning of the ice linga was also well known.

Amareshwar (Amarnath) was a famous pilgrimage place in the time of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan also. In his eulogy of Shah Jahan’s father-in-law Asif Khan, titled “Asaf Vilas”, the famous Sanskrit scholar and aesthete Panditraj Jagannath makes clear mention of Amareshwara (Amarnath) while describing the Mughal garden Nishat laid out by Asif Khan. The King of gods Indra himself, he says, comes here to pay obeisance to Lord Shiva”.

As we well know Francois Bernier, a French physician accompanied Emperor Aurangzeb during his visit to Kashmir in 1663. In his book “Travels in Mughal Empire” he writes while giving an account the places he visited in Kashmir that he was “pursuing journey to a grotto full of wonderful congelations, two days journey from Sangsafed” when he “received intelligence that my Nawab felt very impatient and uneasy on account of my long absence”. The “grotto” he refers to is obviously the Amarnath cave as the editor of the second edition of the English translation of the book, Vincient A. Smith makes clear in his introduction. He writes: “The grotto full of wonderful congelations is the Amarnath cave, where blocks of ice, stalagmites formed by dripping water from the roof are worshipped by many Hindus who resort here as images of Shiva…..”

Another traveler, Vigne, in his book “Travels in Kashmir, Ladakh and Iskardu” writes about the pilgrimage to the sacred spot in detail, clearly mentioning that “the ceremony at the cave of Amarnath takes place on the 15th of the Hindoo month of Sawan” and that “not only Hindoos of every rank and caste can be seen collecting together and traveling up the valley of Liddar towards the celebrated cave……” Vigne visited Kashmir after his return from Ladakh in 1840-41 and published his book in 1842. His book makes it very clear that the Amarnath Yatra drew pilgrims from the whole of India in his time and was undertaken with great enthusiasm.

Again, the great Sikh Guru Arjan Dev is said to have granted land in Amritsar for the ceremonial departure of Chari, the holy mace of Lord Shiva which marks the beginning of the Yatra to the Holy Cave. In 1819, the year in which the Afghan rule came to an end in Kashmir, Pandit Hardas Tiku “founded the Chhawni Anmarnath at Ram Bagh in Srinagar where the Sadhus from the plains assembled and where he gave them free rations for the journey, both ways from his own private resources”, as the noted Kashmiri naturalist Pandit Samsar Chand Kaul has pointed out in his booklet titled “The Mysterious cave of Amarnath”.

Not only this, Amarnath is deeply enshrined in the Kashmiri folklore also as stories like that of Soda Wony clearly show. One can, therefore, conclude without any doubt that the Amaranth Yatra has been going on continuously for centuries along the traditional route of the Lidder valley and not a century and a half affair. May be during the Afghan rule when religious persecution of the Kashmiri Hindus was at its height and they were not allowed to visit their places of worship the pilgrimage was discontinued for about fifty or sixty years and during this period the flock of some shepherd may have strayed into the holy cave, but that in no way makes it of a recent origin or a show window of so-called Kashmiriat.

http://thekashmir.wordpress.com/2008/07/05/amarnath/

SASB Slates Amarnath Yatra From June 29

2011-05-10T22:16:00.000-07:00

Srinagar, May 03, KONS: The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board on Tuesday notified dates for the annual Amarnath Yatra to the Kashmir Himalayas, saying that the pilgrimage would begin on June 29 and end on August 13.

The Board has designated 149 branches of various banks – including 121 branches of the J and K Bank - for the registration of pilgrims, asking devotees to access its website for more information.
Originally a fifteen-day schedule, the yatra had been extended to two months despite opposition from religious heads citing holy scripture about its prescribed timing and duration, with vested interests winning the day through former J and K governor, Lt Gen (retd) SK Sinha in commercialising an act of pure devotion.

The present governor, NN Vohra, who is currently the Board chairman, has reduced the yatra period by a fortnight, earning the ire of the right-wing Vishwa Hindu Parishad which has threatened to commence the pilgrimage on June 15.

Announcing the official yatra dates for this year today, the chief executive officer of the shrine board, RK Goel, said that registration of pilgrims at the designated bank branches would begin from May 10 and continue till August 10.

Prospective pilgrims would have to fill up special forms and deposit Rs 15 while registering, and ‘yatra permits’ would be issued after thorough scrutiny of the documents, he said.

According to Goel, an insurance scheme of Rs 1 lakh already approved by the Board would remain in force for pilgrims to compensate for accidents.

http://www.kashmirobserver.net/

Amarnath Yatra registration to begin from May 10

2011-05-10T22:15:00.000-07:00

Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) on Tuesday said the registration for the annual Amarnath pilgrimage would begin from May 10.

"The process of Amarnath yatra registration for this year in Jammu and Kashmir shall commence on 10th May, 2011," Chief Executive Officer of SASB, R K Goyal said.

Registration of the pilgrims will commence from counters established in 121 designated branches of the Jammu and Kashmir bank, 24 branches of the Yes Bank and 4 district cooperative banks, Goyal said.

With the curtailment in the annual Amarnath yatra by 15 days, the shrine board in its meeting held on 18th February, this year decided that pilgrimage shall commence simultaneously, along both the Baltal and Chandanwari routes on 29th June and culminate on 13th August.

The SASB has succeeded, this year to increase the number of registration counters from 121 in 2010 to 149 this year by securing support from other banks in various states, he said, adding the counters in the state of Bihar shall remain open from 3 pm to 6 pm on all weekdays and 1 pm to 4 pm on all Saturdays during the period of registration, upto August 10.

The registration form can be collected from any of the designated branches of the banks or downloaded from SASB's official website, he said.

Registration will be done through a yatra permit which will be issued on the submission of the form, along with the payment of handling charges of Rs 15 per pilgrim, Goyal said.

He also said every registered pilgrim has been provided, an accidental insurance cover of Rs one lakh at the cost of the shrine board.

Indian exprress

Online registration for Amarnath yatra this year

2011-05-10T22:14:00.000-07:00

This year's annual pilgrimage to the cave shrine of Amarnath nestled in the Himalayas in south Kashmir is slated to begin from June 29. The month and a half long yatra shall end on August 13, coinciding with the 'Raksha Bandan' festival.

According to an official handout, the registration of the intending yatris shall begin on May 10 across the country and shall be made on first-come-first-served basis. The branches of the Jammu and Kashmir [ Images ] bank shall as usual act as registration centre for the pilgrimage.

According to R K Goyal, chief executive officer of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, the registration will be done through a yatra permit which will be issued on the submission of the application form, duly filled in, along with the payment of handling charges of Rs15 per yatri.

Goyal cautioned the pilgrims against undertaking this arduous yatra without securing a permit.

He stressed that for 'effective security and arrangements along the difficult tracks, only those yatris will be allowed to enter and proceed beyond the base camps who are in possession of the permit which is valid for a specified date and route.

Goyal appealed to all those who intend to undertake the pilgrimage to early complete the necessary formalities for registration and timely obtain the permit, in their own interest, so that no inconvenience is faced by any yatri.

Goyal stated that the interested yatris can reserve their helicopter seats through the web-based online reservation system, by logging on to the Shrine Board's website, from May 10 onwards.

It was further informed that special emphasis is being laid on the preservation of the ecology and environment of the yatra area.

rediff

How to reach Amaranath

2011-05-10T22:12:00.000-07:00

Reach Amaranath by Air: The nearest aerodrome is Srinagar. Srinagar is a beautiful valley having world famous sights to see, such as Dal Lake, Nagina Lake, Shankaracharya Temple, Mughal Gardens and what not. It is the most sought after tourist place. It is also known as "Paradise on earth". Srinagar is summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir. There are daily flights to Srinagar from Delhi and Jammu. On some week days flights also pickup passengers from Chandigarh and Amritsar .

Reach Amaranath by Rail: Jammu is the nearest Railway Station . Jammu is winter Capital of Jammu & Kashmir. Jammu is a beautiful city and is also known as "CITY OF TEMPLES". One may visit old temples such as Raghunath Temple , Mahadev Mandir and other temples . It is well connected with all stations of India.The various trains coming to Jammu are listed here below.

Reach Amaranath by Road: Jammu and Srinagar are also connected through road. Buses and Taxies are also available for this part of the journey .These can be hired on daily as well as full tour basis.

Amarnath Yatra

2011-05-10T22:10:00.000-07:00

The Himalayan pilgrimages are the oldest organised travel system, evolved over time by Hindu sages and embodying the spirit of wander, adventure and spirituality"

Shiva, in the form of a lingam, is formed naturally of an ice - stalagmite One of the holy trinity, Shiva is a living god. The most ancient and sacred book of India, the Rig Veda evokes his presence in its hymns. Vedic myths, ritual and even astronomy testify to his existence from the dawn of time.

Shiva is known to have made his home in the Himalayas. He built no house nor shelter, not for himself or his bride. He was an ascetic, and yet married; he could be both for "he was the wild god sporting in the forest or taking his ease on a cloud."

Legend has it that Shiva recounted to Parvati the secret of creation in the Amarnathji cave. Unknown to them, a pair of mating pigeons eavesdropped on this conversation and having learned the secret, are reborn again and again, and have made the cave their eternal abode. Many pilgrims report seeing the pigeons-pair when they trek the arduous route to pay obeisance before the ice-lingam (the phallic symbol of Shiva).

2011 Char Dham Yatra Season has Started

2011-05-10T22:08:00.000-07:00

Keen to be cleansed of your sins, and be liberated from the cycle of death and rebirth? Join the hundreds of thousands of pilgrims visiting the Char Dham (four temples) at the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand. The yatra (pilgrimage) season got underway on Akshaya Tritiya on Friday, with the opening of the Gangotri and Yamunotri temples. Kedarnath temple opens today and Badrinath is open .

How Can the Char Dham be Reached?

A Char Dham yatra isn't easy. Pilgrims really need to earn the benefits bestowed, as only two of the temples (Badrinath and Gangotri) are accessible by vehicle. The remaining two (Yamunotri and Kedarnath) require treks. Kedarnath has the lengthiest trek.

Where are the Char Dham Located?

Badrinath and Gangotri -- are both directly reachable by road from Haridwar, Rishikesh, Kotdwar, and Dehradun.

Yamunotri -- the trek starts from Janki Chatti, 225 kilometers from Rishikesh.

Kedarnath -- the trek starts from Gaurikund, 207 kilometers from Rishikesh

Char Dham Of Garhwal

2011-05-10T22:06:00.000-07:00

The sources of two rivers, Gangotri and Yamunotri are devoted to the female dities – Ganga and Yamuna. They both, along with Badrinath and Kedarnath form the Char Dham of the Garhwal, the four most hallowed shrines in the Himalayas.

The Ganga, especially, is the river of India, beloved of her people, around which are entwined her memories, her hopes and fears, her songs of triumph, her victories and defeats. She has been the symbol of India’s age long culture and civilization, ever-changing, ever-flowing and yet ever the same Ganga.

Ancient India gave countless names to the Ganga. Among them is Loknadi or River of the World. In its most prisitine form, Goddess Ganga as she is reverentially known,first descended to Earth from Heaven at Gangotri where Lord Shiva received her into his matted locks to counter the immense impact of her fall From there ; the one which commenced from Yamunotri was termed Yamuna, from Gangotri – Bhagirathi from Kedarnath – Mandakini and the one which commenced from Badrinath was termed Alaknanda.

BADRINATH

KEDARNATH

GANGOTRI

YAMUNOTRI